Press releases
Data license: MIT · Data source: dwillis/congress-press
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490 rows where party = "Democrat", state = "VA" and year = 2013 sorted by date descending
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| url | title | date ▲ | year | month | party | chamber | state | member_name | bioguide_id | domain | scraper | source | date_source | text | has_text | collected_at | updated_at |
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| https://www.kaine.senate.gov/tim-in-the-news/give-virginia-the-gift-of-strong-ethics-laws | Give Virginia the gift of strong ethics laws | 2013-12-31 | 2013 | 2013-12 | Democrat | House | VA | Tim Kaine | K000384 | www.kaine.senate.gov | legacy | Give Virginia the gift of strong ethics laws Washington Post Op-Ed Tuesday, December 31, 2013 The new year presents a superb opportunity to fix a major Virginia weakness: our lax ethical laws. Gov.-elect Terry McAuliffe and the state legislature have a clear chance to do something right, popular and necessary. They should strike immediately and achieve a legacy accomplishment early in 2014. The principal fix needed is a dramatic restructuring of gift laws. Under current law, anyone can give anything to an elected official so long as it is reported. If the gift is from a “friend,” it need not be reported. If the gift is to an official’s spouse or other family members, it need not be reported. Virginia’s wide-open rule is justified by a smug attitude: We can trust ourselves to do the right thing, and transparency is all that is needed to keep the system honest. But since the 2011 prosecution of former Newport News delegate Phil Hamilton for bribery and extortion, the revelation that advocates of uranium mining in the commonwealth flew legislators to France and the recent controversy around gifts to the family of Gov. Bob McDonnell, we can no longer pretend Virginia’s law makes sense. Gifts to elected officials can create a subconscious sense of gratitude in even the most upright public servants. And the public probably will perceive such gifts as creating improper influence, whether or not that happens. With no limit on the amount of such gifts and with the exceptions for friends and family so broad, Virginia’s system is all but guaranteed to create problems. Meanwhile, many people who advocate for important positions and perspectives cannot afford to give gifts to officials. This puts them at a disadvantage when compared with those who can. I served under the Virginia law for nearly 15 y… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/sens-warner-and-kaine-applaud-faas-selection-of-virginia-tech-proposal-to-test-unmanned-aircraft-systems | Sens. Warner and Kaine Applaud FAA’s Selection of Virginia Tech Proposal to Test Unmanned Aircraft Systems | 2013-12-30 | 2013 | 2013-12 | Democrat | House | VA | Tim Kaine | K000384 | www.kaine.senate.gov | legacy | Sens. Warner and Kaine Applaud FAA’s Selection of Virginia Tech Proposal to Test Unmanned Aircraft Systems Region to be one of six U.S. sites chosen to test and research variety of UAS issues Monday, December 30, 2013 WASHINGTON – U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) and Tim Kaine (D-VA) released this statement today following the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) selection of Virginia Tech’s proposal to spearhead a regional research effort on the safest and most effective ways to incorporate Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) into the existing airspace. Virginia Tech’s proposal, one of six from across the country selected by the FAA today, includes a cooperative agreement to work with research institutions and facilities across Virginia, Maryland and New Jersey. “We want to congratulate Virginia Tech and its partners for this success. Virginia’s selection provides an opportunity for the mid-Atlantic region to become a major hub for UAS research and testing, leveraging the growing private sector interest in UAS as well as incorporating military and NASA assets across our region. That’s why we have long supported Virginia's selection, and have worked to highlight the strengths of a Virginia-Maryland-New Jersey partnership with the FAA,” Sens. Warner and Kaine said. “We hope this FAA research and testing also helps sort-out the legitimate public concerns about privacy and air safety as we move toward a safe and responsible integration of unmanned aircraft.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=0d57aa3a-821b-431a-acda-e3e1b79e1e93 | Sens. Warner & Kaine Applaud FAA Selection of VaTech Proposal on Unmanned Aircraft | 2013-12-30 | 2013 | 2013-12 | Democrat | House | VA | Mark Warner | W000805 | www.warner.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON – U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) and Tim Kaine (D-VA) released this statement today following the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) selection of Virginia Tech’s proposal to spearhead a regional research effort on the safest and most effective ways to incorporate Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) into the existing airspace. Virginia Tech’s proposal, one of six from across the country selected by the FAA today, includes a cooperative agreement to work with research institutions and facilities across Virginia, Maryland and New Jersey. “We want to congratulate Virginia Tech and its partners for this success. Virginia’s selection provides an opportunity for the mid-Atlantic region to become a major hub for UAS research and testing, leveraging the growing private sector interest in UAS as well as incorporating military and NASA assets across our region. That’s why we have long supported Virginia's selection, and have worked to highlight the strengths of a Virginia-Maryland-New Jersey partnership with the FAA,” Sens. Warner and Kaine said. “We hope this FAA research and testing also helps sort-out the legitimate public concerns about privacy and air safety as we move toward a safe and responsible integration of unmanned aircraft.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=a61cf7b4-5603-49bb-b0b0-9578e6756aa1 | Sen. Warner Calls for Hearing into Target Consumer Data Breach | 2013-12-30 | 2013 | 2013-12 | Democrat | House | VA | Mark Warner | W000805 | www.warner.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON – U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) today requested a hearing by the Senate Banking Committee to examine whether companies and financial service providers are taking all actions necessary to safeguard consumer data and protect against fraud and identity theft, and whether stronger industry-wide cybersecurity standards are needed. In the wake of Target’s recent account data breach affecting some 40 million U.S. customers, Sen. Warner and Banking Committee colleague Sen. Robert Menendez (D-NJ) wrote to Chairman Tim Johnson and Ranking Member Mike Crapo: “With our economy and financial sector becoming increasingly information-based and data-reliant, consumers depend on the companies and financial service providers with whom they do business to protect their sensitive information. As companies collect, store, and process ever-greater quantities of consumer data, they—and our regulators—must become even more vigilant against breaches and improper use.” Just days before Christmas, Target announced that a data breach occurred between Nov. 27 and Dec. 15, affecting about 40 million credit and debit card accounts, compromising customers' names, card information and security codes. Target has yet to disclose how the hackers penetrated its data security. The Warner/Menendez letter follows: December 30, 2013 The Honorable Tim Johnson Chairman Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Washington, DC 20510 The Honorable Mike Crapo Ranking Member Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Washington, DC 20510 Dear Chairman Johnson and Ranking Member Crapo: We write to request that the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs hold a hearing as soon as reasonably possible regarding consumer financial data security. As you know, earlier this month, Target Corporation announced a data breach that affected roughly 40 million customer credit and debit card accounts – one of the largest such corporate security breaches in… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.kaine.senate.gov/tim-in-the-news/time-to-pass-a-farm-bill | Time To Pass A Farm Bill | 2013-12-28 | 2013 | 2013-12 | Democrat | House | VA | Tim Kaine | K000384 | www.kaine.senate.gov | legacy | Time To Pass A Farm Bill Daily News-Record Op-Ed Saturday, December 28, 2013 As we give thanks this holiday season, it’s important to remember the family farms that produce the food we will enjoy with friends and relatives. But farmers’ hard work deserves more than recognition — Congress owes it to farmers here in the Valley and across the country to swiftly pass a final farm bill. Among all sectors of our economy, agriculture, the largest industry in Virginia, is unique for a simple reason — its output supports our very lives. The market may wax and wane, but we will always need food. A drought or a heavy flood means a bad year for the farmer, whose output is reduced, and a bad year for the consumer, who has to pay more for groceries. In any given year, the impact of unpredictable events on agriculture could send a domino effect of either prosperity or hardship through the economy. This inherent volatility means it is in everyone’s interest to ensure there is a stable, predictable market for agricultural goods. That is why farm bills have traditionally maintained a system of payments tailored to the varying needs of different regions and crops along with federal support for crop insurance premiums. Clear flaws in this system have emerged, such as direct payments to millionaires, or to property caretakers who aren’t even farmers but qualify for payments through legal loopholes. I’m pleased that along with other important reforms, both the Senate and House farm bills end direct payments, expand crop insurance, and restructure the commodity title. But that won’t help if we fail to pass a final bill — or if we pass another one-year extension. Whether it’s peanut and cotton farmers in Southside or poultry growers in the Valley, farmers deserve certainty from their government. That’s why … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://web.archive.org/web/20140131155404/http://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/sens-warner-and-kaine-applaud-nomination-of-hannah-lauck-to-eastern-district-court-of-virginia | Sens. Warner and Kaine Applaud Nomination of Hannah Lauck to Eastern District Court of Virginia | 2013-12-20 | 2013 | 2013-12 | Democrat | House | VA | Tim Kaine | K000384 | web.archive.org | legacy | Sens. Warner and Kaine Applaud Nomination of Hannah Lauck to Eastern District Court of Virginia Friday, December 20, 2013 WASHINGTON - U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine released the following statement on the White House nomination of Hannah Lauck to serve on the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia: “Judge Lauck has an exemplary record as a prosecutor and a magistrate judge, and I was pleased to support her nomination to the federal bench,” Sen. Warner said. “I was proud to recommend Hannah for this position and am pleased the President has chosen to nominate her,” said Sen. Kaine “Hannah’s many years of experience in the Eastern District – both as a Magistrate Judge and an Assistant U.S. Attorney has prepared her well for this post. I look forward to doing everything I can to ensure a smooth confirmation process for her in the Senate.” Lauck has been a United States Magistrate Judge in the Eastern District of Virginia since 2005. Previously, she worked as a Supervising Attorney at Genworth Financial, Inc. from 2004 to 2005. From 1994 to 2004, she was an Assistant United States Attorney in the Eastern District of Virginia. Judge Lauck worked in private practice at Anderson Kill Olick & Oshinsky from 1992 to 1994 and began her legal career as a law clerk for Judge James R. Spencer of the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia from 1991 to 1992. She received her J.D. in 1991 from Yale Law School and her B.A. magna cum laude in 1986 from Wellesley College. # # # | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.kaine.senate.gov/kainehailspassageofdefensebill | Kaine Hails Final Passage of Defense Bill | 2013-12-20 | 2013 | 2013-12 | Democrat | House | VA | Tim Kaine | K000384 | www.kaine.senate.gov | legacy | Kaine Hails Final Passage of Defense Bill Key provisions of Kaine’s first piece of legislation, the Troop Talent Act, will become law Friday, December 20, 2013 WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tim Kaine, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today hailed final passage of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) of 2014 – the annual defense bill that includes important provisions Kaine advocated for Virginia during committee markup of the legislation in June 2013. The measure was passed, 84-15. “With passage of the National Defense Authorization Act of 2014, I’m pleased we will be able to provide our nation’s military with budget certainty to maintain readiness, and our servicemembers with the support they deserve. Together with passage of a two-year budget agreement earlier this week, this legislation is a win for Virginia, authorizing full funding for our shipyards in Hampton Roads to continue producing and repairing aircraft carriers, submarines and surface ships. It also includes 36 historic reforms to tackle the serious and longstanding problem of sexual assault in the military. “I’m also proud that key provisions of the first piece of legislation I introduced, the Troop Talent Act, were included. Providing active duty servicemembers with the tools they need to more easily receive credentials for the skills they acquire through military training will now become law, greatly easing their transition to a civilian career. This is a small but important step to help whittle away at the unacceptably high rate of veterans’ unemployment – particularly among those returning from Iraq and Afghanistan - and I remain committed to exploring all avenues to address this issue.” The following list includes many of the provisions Kaine advocated for Virginia’s defense community that were included in the NDAA: Troop Talent Act Becomes Law: Key provisions of Kaine's first bill, the Troop Talent Act of 2013, were included in the authorization act, including the … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/senate-passes-key-provisions-of-kaines-first-bill-the-troop-talent-act | Senate Passes Key Provisions of Kaine's First Bill, the Troop Talent Act | 2013-12-20 | 2013 | 2013-12 | Democrat | House | VA | Tim Kaine | K000384 | www.kaine.senate.gov | legacy | Senate Passes Key Provisions of Kaine's First Bill, the Troop Talent Act Legislation increases and streamlines credentialing for veterans Friday, December 20, 2013 WASHINGTON, D.C. – Last night, the U.S. Senate passed key provisions of U.S. Senator Tim Kaine’s first bill, the Troop Talent Act of 2013, as part of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) of 2014. Kaine secured inclusion of the provisions during committee markup of the legislation in June 2013. “I’m proud that key provisions of the first piece of legislation I introduced, the Troop Talent Act, were included in the 2014 defense bill that was passed with bipartisan support in the Senate,” Kaine said. “It will now be the law to provide active duty servicemembers with the tools they need to more easily receive credentials for the skills they acquire through military training, greatly easing their transition to a civilian career. This is a small but important step to help whittle away at the unacceptably high rate of veterans’ unemployment – particularly among those returning from Iraq and Afghanistan - and I remain committed to exploring all avenues to address this issue.” The Troop Talent Act provisions included in the 2014 NDAA are: 1) A requirement that information on civilian credentialing opportunities be made available to servicemembers at every stage of their military training 2) A requirement that information on military training and experience be provided, upon request, to civilian credentialing agencies and other approved entities In addition, Kaine secured inclusion of an amendment to NDAA that ensures Department of Defense educational programs be eligible for funding under the Title IV Higher Education Act. This provision will ensure DoD programs meet the same standards currently required for other educational federal funding, such as Pell Grants. The Troop Talent Act has received praise from editorial boards and veterans' groups, including the Veterans of Foreign Wars, IA… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/sens-warner-collins-kaine-and-grassley-legislation-to-protect-military-whistleblowers-passes-congress- | Sens. Warner, Collins, Kaine & Grassley Legislation To Protect Military Whistleblowers Passes Congress | 2013-12-20 | 2013 | 2013-12 | Democrat | House | VA | Tim Kaine | K000384 | www.kaine.senate.gov | legacy | Sens. Warner, Collins, Kaine & Grassley Legislation To Protect Military Whistleblowers Passes Congress ~ Bipartisan Military Whistleblower Protection Act will now go the President for his signature ~ Friday, December 20, 2013 WASHINGTON - Bipartisan legislation sponsored by Sens. Mark R. Warner (D-VA), Susan Collins (R-ME), Tim Kaine (D-VA) and Chuck Grassley (R-IA) to strengthen military whistleblower protection laws to ensure those who report sexual assault and other misconduct are not further victimized by retaliation passed the Senate and will become law. The Military Whistleblower Protection Act was passed as part of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) on a bipartisan 85-14 vote and will now go to the President for his signature. The Military Whistleblower Protection Act is supported by over 50 good government, public health and veterans organizations, including the Service Women’s Action Network, and leading whistleblower protection organizations including the Project on Government Oversight and the Government Accountability Project. “This legislation is an important first step toward better protecting our military men and women from misconduct, including sexual assault,” Sen. Warner said. “The Military Whistleblower Protection Act will encourage our service members to report fraud, waste and abuse and provide them with the retaliation-free working environment they deserve. Virginia has a strong military tradition and I am proud that this legislation will now become law." "Whistleblowers play a crucial role in Congressional efforts to prevent waste, fraud, and abuse and to help ensure the effectiveness of government programs. They provide crucial information that Congress needs to conduct proper oversight of the federal government," said Sen. Collins. "This amendment increases whistleblower protections for the military and encourages whistleblowers to report misconduct, especially as it relates to sexual assault. Our military men and wom… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=30af12c6-4486-4f27-bd6c-e7687e2d7ae0 | Bipartisan Military Whistleblower Protection Act Passes Congress | 2013-12-20 | 2013 | 2013-12 | Democrat | House | VA | Mark Warner | W000805 | www.warner.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON - Bipartisan legislation sponsored by Sens. Mark R. Warner (D-VA), Susan Collins (R-ME), Tim Kaine (D-VA) and Chuck Grassley (R-IA) to strengthen military whistleblower protection laws to ensure those who report sexual assault and other misconduct are not further victimized by retaliation passed the Senate and will become law. The Military Whistleblower Protection Act was passed as part of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) on a bipartisan 85-14 vote and will now go to the President for his signature. The Military Whistleblower Protection Act is supported by over 50 good government, public health and veterans organizations, including the Service Women’s Action Network, and leading whistleblower protection organizations including the Project on Government Oversight and the Government Accountability Project. “This legislation is an important first step toward better protecting our military men and women from misconduct, including sexual assault,” Sen. Warner said. “The Military Whistleblower Protection Act will encourage our service members to report fraud, waste and abuse and provide them with the retaliation-free working environment they deserve. Virginia has a strong military tradition and I am proud that this legislation will now become law." "Whistleblowers play a crucial role in Congressional efforts to prevent waste, fraud, and abuse and to help ensure the effectiveness of government programs. They provide crucial information that Congress needs to conduct proper oversight of the federal government," said Sen. Collins. "This amendment increases whistleblower protections for the military and encourages whistleblowers to report misconduct, especially as it relates to sexual assault. Our military men and women deserve a justice system that protects them while they serve our country." “With passage of the Military Whistleblower Protection Act, victims and witnesses of sexual assault and other serious crimes will now be better protected from retaliation," said Sen. Kaine. “Too many in… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=7c294b6b-faef-4177-aedd-7e660978eb3c | Sens. Warner & Kaine Statement On Nomination Of Hannah Lauck To U.S. Circuit Court For The Eastern District Of Virginia | 2013-12-20 | 2013 | 2013-12 | Democrat | House | VA | Mark Warner | W000805 | www.warner.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON - U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine released the following statement on the White House nomination of Hannah Lauck to serve on the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia: “Judge Lauck has an exemplary record as a prosecutor and a magistrate judge, and I was pleased to support her nomination to the federal bench,” Sen. Warner said. “I was proud to recommend Hannah for this position and am pleased the President has chosen to nominate her,” said Sen. Kaine “Hannah’s many years of experience in the Eastern District – both as a Magistrate Judge and an Assistant U.S. Attorney has prepared her well for this post. I look forward to doing everything I can to ensure a smooth confirmation process for her in the Senate.” Lauck has been a United States Magistrate Judge in the Eastern District of Virginia since 2005. Previously, she worked as a Supervising Attorney at Genworth Financial, Inc. from 2004 to 2005. From 1994 to 2004, she was an Assistant United States Attorney in the Eastern District of Virginia. Judge Lauck worked in private practice at Anderson Kill Olick & Oshinsky from 1992 to 1994 and began her legal career as a law clerk for Judge James R. Spencer of the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia from 1991 to 1992. She received her J.D. in 1991 from Yale Law School and her B.A. magna cum laude in 1986 from Wellesley College. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/sens-warner-and-kaine-lead-senate-majority-in-effort-to-allow-rollovers-for-fsa-accounts | Sens. Warner and Kaine Lead Senate Majority In Effort To Allow Rollovers For FSA Accounts | 2013-12-19 | 2013 | 2013-12 | Democrat | House | VA | Tim Kaine | K000384 | www.kaine.senate.gov | legacy | Sens. Warner and Kaine Lead Senate Majority In Effort To Allow Rollovers For FSA Accounts Thursday, December 19, 2013 WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Mark Warner and Tim Kaine, joined by their Senate colleagues Ben Cardin (D-MD) and Barbara A. Mikulski (D-MD), led an effort in the Senate urging Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Director Kathleen Archuleta to allow federal workers the opportunity to take advantage of the new Treasury/IRS rule allowing a $500 rollover of unused health Flexible Savings Accounts (FSA) funds towards out-of-pocket health care costs and help keep families and consumers in control of their health care decisions. The letter received the support of all 53 Senate Democrats and two Independents and follows a notable change by the Department of the Treasury on October 31that gives employers a choice to roll over their employees’ FSA fund to the following year, or provide a grace period to use available funds in the following year. “It is unreasonable to expect health FSA participants to accurately forecast their out-of-pocket medical expenses a year in advance, and it is unfair to penalize them at the end of the plan year should their estimates prove to be inaccurate,” the Senators wrote in their letter. According to OPM’s own data, in 2012, 30,940 federal employees – nearly 10 percent of participating employees -- forfeited an average of $392 each in contributions because of the “use-or-lose” rule. The Senators noted that the U.S. Treasury and IRS have recognized the value of providing a rollover option for employees nationwide. “We urge you to provide this benefit to federal employees without delay,” they added. A copy of the letter can be found here and below. Director Katherine Archuleta U.S. Office of Personnel Management 1900 E Street, N.W. Washington, DC 20415 Dear Director Archuleta: We write to urge you to modify the “use-or-lose” rule for Health Flexible Spending Arrangements available to federal employees through the FSAF… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/statement-on-white-house-response- | Statement on White House Response on Hardship Exemption | 2013-12-19 | 2013 | 2013-12 | Democrat | House | VA | Tim Kaine | K000384 | www.kaine.senate.gov | legacy | Statement on White House Response on Hardship Exemption Thursday, December 19, 2013 WASHINGTON – U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner (D-VA), Angus King (I-ME), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Mary Landrieu (D-LA), Heidi Heitkamp (D-ND), and Tim Kaine (D-VA) released the following joint statement after Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius announced that some individuals who had their health plans cancelled will be automatically eligible for a hardship exemption that allows them to purchase a catastrophic plan on the health insurance marketplace. The Senators raised the issue in a joint letter to Secretary Sebelius on Dec. 19th. In addition, Secretary Sebelius today announced that the Administration has established a dedicated hotline for consumers with cancelled plans at 1-866-837-0677: “We are pleased that the Administration appears to have responded to the concerns we’ve raised. As a result, this clarifies an option that will help those consumers who have had their plans cancelled this year transition more smoothly into the marketplace. We will closely monitor how the Administration implements this option, and we remain committed to proposing responsible solutions.” The Senators’ letter to Secretary Sebelius is available here. Secretary Sebelius’s response is available here. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=1f5bcea7-7b11-41d9-87d1-1d07c8996947 | Statement of Sens. Warner, King, Shaheen, Landrieu, Heitkamp and Kaine on White House Response on Hardship Exemption | 2013-12-19 | 2013 | 2013-12 | Democrat | House | VA | Mark Warner | W000805 | www.warner.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON – U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner (D-VA), Angus King (I-ME), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Mary Landrieu (D-LA), Heidi Heitkamp (D-ND), and Tim Kaine (D-VA) released the following joint statement after Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius announced that some individuals who had their health plans cancelled will be automatically eligible for a hardship exemption that allows them to purchase a catastrophic plan on the health insurance marketplace. The Senators raised the issue in a joint letter to Secretary Sebelius on Dec. 19th. In addition, Secretary Sebelius today announced that the Administration has established a dedicated hotline for consumers with cancelled plans at 1-866-837-0677: “We are pleased that the Administration appears to have responded to the concerns we’ve raised. As a result, this clarifies an option that will help those consumers who have had their plans cancelled transition more smoothly into the marketplace. We will closely monitor how the Administration implements this option, and we remain committed to proposing responsible solutions.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://connolly.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=672 | Federal, State, Local Leaders Support GSA/Springfield Site for FBI HQ | 2013-12-18 | 2013 | 2013-12 | Democrat | House | VA | Gerald Connolly | C001078 | connolly.house.gov | legacy | Congressman Gerry Connolly joined Federal, State, and local leaders at a December press conference to show unified, bipartisan support for locating the new FBI headquarters at the GSA site in Springfield, VA. Read more. share: f t Congressman Gerry Connolly joined Governor-elect Terry McAuliffe, Virginia Senators Mark Warner and Tim Kaine, Congressmen Jim Moran and Frank Wolf, Virginia Secretary of Commerce and Trade Jim Cheng representing Governor Bob McDonnell, state Senator George Barker, Delegate Vivian Watts, and Fairfax County Supervisor Jeff McKay at a December press conference to show unified, bipartisan support for locating the new FBI headquarters at the GSA site in Springfield, VA. “We're going to win this on the merits, not on politics,” Connolly said. “We had a number of sites under consideration in Virginia, but we put our parochial interests aside to support the best site for Northern Virginia and for our national security. The GSA site in Springfield meets the FBI’s mission-critical needs.” Connolly also cited the proximity of the FBI’s training facility in Quantico and other locations in Virginia housing federal anti-terrorism offices. “The FBI plays a key role in fighting terrorism,” he said. “Interaction with other agencies is critical.”Governor-elect McAuliffe cited the need to diversify Virginia’s economy and he said, The FBI headquarters means jobs.” Senator Warner cited the proximity of the site to transportation including Metrorail, VRE, buses, and I-95. Senator Kaine and Congressman Moran both cited the unity of Virginia officials behind the Springfield site. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-applauds-committee-action-on-bill-to-create-special-envoy-for-religious-minorities-in-the-middle-east | Kaine Applauds Committee Action On Bill To Create Special Envoy For Religious Minorities In The Middle East | 2013-12-18 | 2013 | 2013-12 | Democrat | House | VA | Tim Kaine | K000384 | www.kaine.senate.gov | legacy | Kaine Applauds Committee Action On Bill To Create Special Envoy For Religious Minorities In The Middle East Kaine, Chairman of Middle East Subcommittee, cites growing religious persecution across region Wednesday, December 18, 2013 WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tim Kaine, Chairman of the Foreign Relations Subcommittee on Near Eastern, Southern and Central Asian Affairs, today applauded committee action on the Near East and South Central Asia Religious Freedom Act of 2013, of which he is a co-sponsor. The bill, introduced by Senators Roy Blunt, Carl Levin and Bob Casey cites growing instances of religious persecution in the Middle East and calls for the creation of a special envoy within the State Department to bring attention to the problem and advocate for religious liberty in the region. It is similar to a House bill sponsored by fellow Virginian, Congressman Frank Wolf, a longtime advocate for religious freedom around the world. “I was glad to join my Senate colleagues and Virginia Congressman Frank Wolf in promoting the appointment of a full-time special envoy for religious minorities in the Middle East. I’m pleased that the Foreign Relations Committee has recognized the importance of this priority by advancing this legislation today,” said Kaine. “The recent story about the likely kidnapping of Catholic nuns in Syria is just the latest example of an escalating epidemic of religious persecution in the Middle East,” Kaine said, referencing the alleged kidnapping of 12 Lebanese and Syrian Greek Orthodox nuns from the Syrian village of Maaloula earlier this month. “Attacks on Christians, Jews, Baha'I, Ahmadiyya Muslims and other religious minorities are occurring with greater frequency.” “The Virginia Statute of Religious Freedom, passed by the Virginia General Assembly in 1787, became the model for our constitutional protection of religious freedom for all,” Kaine continued. “The United States can and should play a key role in exposing these human rights vio… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-with-passage-of-budget-achieved-two-of-my-highest-priorities-for-first-year | Kaine: With Passage Of Budget, Achieved Two Of My Highest Priorities For First Year | 2013-12-18 | 2013 | 2013-12 | Democrat | House | VA | Tim Kaine | K000384 | www.kaine.senate.gov | legacy | Kaine: With Passage Of Budget, Achieved Two Of My Highest Priorities For First Year Wednesday, December 18, 2013 WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Tim Kaine, a member of the bipartisan Budget Conference Committee, released the following statement after the Senate voted to pass the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013, 64-36. “With Senate passage of a two-year budget agreement tonight, I’m proud to say that we’ve achieved two of my highest priorities for my first year in office – getting a budget agreement through the House and Senate and offsetting the worst effects of sequestration that have disproportionately impacted Virginia. During the opening meeting of the Budget Conference Committee last month, I called on my fellow conferees to ‘surprise the cynics.’ I’m so glad we did. “Over the past 11 months, I witnessed the impact of budget uncertainty and sequestration by visiting military installations, private shipyards, research universities and early childhood educations centers across the Commonwealth. With passage of this compromise budget deal, we’ll replace $63 billion in non-strategic sequester cuts and prevent another government shutdown, restoring much-needed certainty to these Virginians, and to our economy as a whole. It also allows appropriators to write full bills that will give the Department of Defense more flexibility to plan for the future and allow the Navy to continue its critical shipbuilding and repair work. “There are provisions in the compromise that I do not support, including a reduction in the cost of living increase (COLA) for certain military pensions. That’s why I co-sponsored legislation this week to replace the $6 billion in cuts by closing a corporate tax loophole that companies use to avoid paying U.S. taxes. I’m hopeful we will be able to undo these changes before they take effect in 2015 and I’ll work in the Senate Armed Services Committee to do so. “There is more work to be done to replace the remaining non-strategic sequestration cuts and addre… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/senators-warner-and-kaine-introduce-military-retirement-restoration-act | Senators Warner & Kaine Introduce Military Retirement Restoration Act | 2013-12-18 | 2013 | 2013-12 | Democrat | House | VA | Tim Kaine | K000384 | www.kaine.senate.gov | legacy | Senators Warner & Kaine Introduce Military Retirement Restoration Act Will repeal and replace proposed cuts to military retiree benefits Wednesday, December 18, 2013 WASHINGTON - U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner (D-VA) and Tim Kaine (D-VA) introduced legislation to repeal and replace the proposed $6 billion cut to military pensions included in the Bipartisan Budget Act. The compromise budget agreement, which passed the U.S. House of Representatives last week and is scheduled for a Senate vote today, would cut $6 billion over 10 years by reducing cost-of-living adjustments (COLA) for working-age military retirees by 1 percent beginning in January 2015. The Military Retirement Restoration Act would replace this provision with new legislation that could raise as much as $6.6 billion over ten years by preventing companies from avoiding U.S. taxes through the use of foreign tax havens. “While the changes to military pension COLA increases may look insignificant to some, this is real money to a lot of families,” Sen. Warner said. “Virginians have served with honor in our military for generations, and I want to assure our servicemen and women that there is ample time to undo these changes before they take effect. I remain committed to pursuing a comprehensive deficit reduction package, but we should not unfairly single out our military families.” “The Senate worked hard to pass a budget last March that did not contain reductions in COLA for military pensions because it was not the way we felt we should be dealing with the budget,” said Sen. Kaine. “It’s my hope that we’ll be able to undo these changes before they take effect in 2015. I’m proud to support this legislation and look forward to further reviewing the provision in the Armed Services Committee early next year, as Chairman Carl Levin has signaled.” A bill summary and text are copied below. Summary Military Retirement Restoration Act - The Military Retirement Restoration Act would replace the cuts to milita… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=fe38dcb7-1313-4d7f-8303-9af78ce40635 | Statement of Sen. Warner on passage of Bipartisan Budget Agreement | 2013-12-18 | 2013 | 2013-12 | Democrat | House | VA | Mark Warner | W000805 | www.warner.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON – U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA), a member of the House-Senate Budget Conference Committee, made the following comments in a floor speech prior to this afternoon’s Senate passage of the Bipartisan Budget Agreement, which the Senator supported. The legislation passed by a vote of 64 to 36. “My hope is this afternoon we'll vote on a budget agreement for two years that is not as grand or as comprehensive as I would have liked. But we'll demonstrate to the American people that up here perhaps we have to crawl before we can walk before we can run… [This bipartisan compromise] says for at least the balance of this fiscal year and for the next, let's take the threat of another shutdown … and unprecedented furloughs off the table. Let's not relax our focus on deficit reduction. Let's not add to the debt. Let's actually do a little bit more, about $20 billion more, in deficit reduction, but let's show that our institutions can actually put country ahead of partisan interests. “Now, in this compromise, not everyone got what they wanted. I would have argued strongly that the ‘big enchilada’ remains, how do we really take on in a major way that $17 trillion debt that clicks up about $4 billion a night? And that means both political parties have to give on their sacred cows. It means we've got to generate additional revenues through meaningful reform of a completely disastrous tax code, and, yes, it means for folks on my side, we’ve got to make sure that the promise of Medicare and Social Security and other entitlements are here 20 and 30 years from now. But some of those challenges will have to be put off to another day. There are many of us in this body, on both sides of the aisle, who may have a chance to surprise some folks next year in laying out some specific ideas on how we can move to that bigger bargain. But we should not underestimate what we do today. “I've spent a longer time in business than I have in elective office, and what this country is yearning for, what consumers are yearning for, what… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://connolly.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=671 | Connolly Statement on the Retirement of Rep. Frank Wolf | 2013-12-17 | 2013 | 2013-12 | Democrat | House | VA | Gerald Connolly | C001078 | connolly.house.gov | legacy | Connolly Statement on the Retirement of Rep. Frank Wolf f t # e Washington, DC, December 17, 2013 Congressman Gerry Connolly issued the following statement today following the announcement by Congressman Frank Wolf (R-VA) that he will be retiring from the U.S. House of Representatives at the end of his 34th year in Congress and will not seek an 18th term in 2014. Read more. share: f t Rep. Connolly Statement on Retirement of Rep. Frank WolfCongressman Gerry Connolly (D-VA) issued the following statement today following the announcement by Congressman Frank Wolf (R-VA) that he will be retiring from the U.S. House of Representatives at the end of his 34th year in Congress and will not seek an 18th term in 2014.“It has been an honor and privilege to work with Congressman Frank Wolf, both as a member of the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, and the last five years in Congress,” Congressman Gerry Connolly said. “Frank has been a leader on Rail to Dulles, a tireless champion of federal workers, a partner in gang prevention, and a passionate advocate for human rights around the world. Congress and Northern Virginia will forever be grateful for his service." f t # e | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-statement-on-retirement-of-congressman-frank-wolf | Kaine Statement On Retirement Of Congressman Frank Wolf | 2013-12-17 | 2013 | 2013-12 | Democrat | House | VA | Tim Kaine | K000384 | www.kaine.senate.gov | legacy | Kaine Statement On Retirement Of Congressman Frank Wolf Tuesday, December 17, 2013 WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tim Kaine released the following statement on Congressman Frank Wolf’s announcement that he will retire after 17 terms in Congress: “For more than 30 years, Frank Wolf has exemplified the best in public service through his dedication to the people of Virginia’s 10th District. Frank’s passion has also extended to the global stage through his leadership on the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission and longtime support for religious freedom around the world – an effort that has inspired me to take up the cause of religious freedom in my own work on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. “It’s been a sincere honor to work with him this past year, as well as during my time as Governor. His leadership of Virginia’s congressional delegation and his service to the people of Northern Virginia will truly be missed.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/on-senate-floor-kaine-calls-for-passage-of-bipartisan-budget-act-of-2013 | On Senate Floor, Kaine Calls For Passage Of Bipartisan Budget Act Of 2013 | 2013-12-17 | 2013 | 2013-12 | Democrat | House | VA | Tim Kaine | K000384 | www.kaine.senate.gov | legacy | On Senate Floor, Kaine Calls For Passage Of Bipartisan Budget Act Of 2013 Tuesday, December 17, 2013 WASHINGTON, D.C. – Speaking on the Senate floor today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine, a member of the Budget Conference Committee, called for Senate passage of the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 that reverses many of the across-the-board sequester cuts that have disproportionately impacted Virginia and restores certainty to the U.S. economy, as well as families and businesses across the Commonwealth. Since taking office last January, Kaine has consistently called for a return to normal budget order and relief from sequestration. “I gave my first speech on the Senate floor in February to urge my colleagues to avoid sequester and in the months since I have visited Virginia shipyards, research universities, early childhood education centers and seen the effects that sequester has on Virginians, on Americans and on our economy,” said Kaine. “What we've done with this budget deal is take a step back to regular budgetary order to give certainty to the economy. Under the agreement, defense cuts of an additional $20 billion that were scheduled to take effect in January will not go into effect and we will find ways to restore funding and avert sequester cuts to non-defense accounts as well.” Kaine acknowledged that he does not support certain provisions in the deal that were added in order to find compromise with the House, including a reduction in the cost of living increase (COLA) for certain military pensions – a measure that was not included in the Senate Budget he voted for in March. “An additional weakness is the way we’ve dealt with the cost of living increase for military retirees pre-age 62 who are not disabled. I don’t agree with that compromise provision,” said Kaine. “All the senators currently in the chamber worked so hard to pass a budget in March that did not contain that provision because it was not the way we felt we should be dealing with the budget.” "I am pleased that C… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=392e81e9-d79e-4e5e-b12a-8db4a8498c1f | Statement of U.S. Sen. Warner on Retirement of Rep. Frank Wolf | 2013-12-17 | 2013 | 2013-12 | Democrat | House | VA | Mark Warner | W000805 | www.warner.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON – U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) issued this statement following today’s announcement by U.S. Rep. Frank Wolf (R-10th) that he will retire after 17 terms in Congress: “Frank Wolf has been a true friend, and a great partner, both when I served as Virginia Governor and since I’ve joined Congress. He is a tireless and leading advocate for religious freedom around the world. “We have worked closely together on Northern Virginia transportation issues, and partnered in consecutive sessions of Congress on bipartisan legislation that would encourage the on-shoring of jobs back to Virginia which have moved overseas in recent years. Frank has also been a passionate advocate and reliable ally in my ongoing efforts to find common ground on issues surrounding our nation’s deficits and debt. “Congressman Wolf’s dedication in over 17 terms in Congress, and his exceptionally high level of service to the constituents he proudly represents in Virginia’s 10th District, will remain a model for all of us who serve.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=97479778-9566-4b67-ba3b-e9547cce3369 | Sens. Warner & Kaine Introduce Military Retirement Restoration Act | 2013-12-17 | 2013 | 2013-12 | Democrat | House | VA | Mark Warner | W000805 | www.warner.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON - U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner (D-VA) and Tim Kaine (D-VA) introduced legislation to repeal and replace the proposed $6 billion cut to military pensions included in the Bipartisan Budget Act. The compromise budget agreement, which passed the U.S. House of Representatives last week and is scheduled for a Senate vote today, would cut $6 billion over 10 years by reducing cost-of-living adjustments (COLA) for working-age military retirees by 1 percent beginning in January 2015. The Military Retirement Restoration Act would replace this provision with new legislation that could raise as much as $6.6 billion over ten years by preventing companies from avoiding U.S. taxes through the use of foreign tax havens. “While the changes to military pension COLA increases may look insignificant to some, this is real money to a lot of families,” Sen. Warner said. “Virginians have served with honor in our military for generations, and I want to assure our servicemen and women that there is ample time to undo these changes before they take effect. I remain committed to pursuing a comprehensive deficit reduction package, but we should not unfairly single out our military families.” “The Senate worked hard to pass a budget last March that did not contain reductions in COLA for military pensions because it was not the way we felt we should be dealing with the budget,” said Sen. Kaine. “It’s my hope that we’ll be able to undo these changes before they take effect in 2015. I’m proud to support this legislation and look forward to further reviewing the provision in the Armed Services Committee early next year, as Chairman Carl Levin has signaled.” A bill summary and text is copied below. Summary Military Retirement Restoration Act - The Military Retirement Restoration Act would replace the cuts to military retiree benefits from the Bipartisan Budget Act by preventing companies from avoiding U.S. taxes by abusing tax havens. Repeal the provision in the Bipartisan Budget Act (Section 403) that modifies the annual c… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.kaine.senate.gov/commonwealth-connection/virginia-grown | Virginia Grown | 2013-12-16 | 2013 | 2013-12 | Democrat | House | VA | Tim Kaine | K000384 | www.kaine.senate.gov | legacy | Monday, December 16, 2013 Virginia Grown by Gwen Mason, Regional Director Each of us who lives or works in Virginia treasures some wonderful, edible part of the Commonwealth’s history and culture. From Smithfield ham, to Chesapeake Bay oysters, Winchester apples, Rockingham and Augusta Counties’ milk and dairy products, Highland County beef, and red and white wine from vineyards across Virginia, the Commonwealth provides a bounty of nutritious, tasty sustenance. Agriculture is the dominant industry in the Shenandoah Valley. Representing Senator Kaine as his Regional Director from Roanoke on “down the Valley” to Shenandoah County, I know that agricultural issues are key to the prosperity and growth of this region. Last week I attended the Virginia “Farm to Table” 2013 Conference held at Blue Ridge Community College. The conference was jointly sponsored by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service and Virginia Cooperative Extension at Virginia Tech. With support from 30 other organizations, more than 200 attendees from across the state learned about farming techniques that improve social well-being and strengthen the economy. We all want to know where our food comes from. Locally grown organic food and sustainable agricultural practices are now important components of the Valley’s economic growth. The U.S. Department of Agriculture is a key partner to communities throughout the Shenandoah Valley, with personnel dedicated to rural development, natural resources conservation, and farm service. Knowing how close the partnership is between the USDA and Virginia farms, it is not surprising that the bywords of the Farm to Table conference were “collaboration, conservation, and community.” The most unforgettable aspect of the conference was the delicious, locally grown lunch catered by Harrisonburg’s wonderful organic restaurant, A Bowl of Good. … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.kaine.senate.gov/tim-in-the-news/tim-kaine-lessons-from-40-years-as-a-richmond-public-schools-parent | Lessons from 40 years as a Richmond Public Schools parent | 2013-12-15 | 2013 | 2013-12 | Democrat | House | VA | Tim Kaine | K000384 | www.kaine.senate.gov | legacy | Anne and I are now empty-nesters. Combined, our three kids spent 40 school years in the Richmond Public Schools. While we both interact with the school system in our professional lives, we’ve learned even more from back-to-school nights, parent-teacher conferences, attending school events and pulling crumpled notes to parents out of our kids’ backpacks. The lessons learned as parents have made me think about what works and what doesn’t work in Pre-K-12 education. Here are seven changes I’d like to see: It’s about the individual! Most policy debate these days seems to be about charter schools or high-stakes testing. But I’m convinced that the most important reform has been under our noses since 1975, when legislation was passed to guarantee children with diagnosed disabilities receive individualized learning plans tailored to meet their specific needs. Each child brings a mix of strengths and challenges to the classroom. Let’s use the insight gained through advances in educating kids with disabilities to leverage new technologies and teaching methods that can individualize learning for each child. Early childhood education works My daughter was able to attend a year of high-quality pre-K in our city schools. This experience made me a believer, and it’s one of the reasons why I greatly expanded pre-K for at-risk 4 year olds when I was governor. The research is powerful — if you invest in high-quality programs that coordinate with K-12 curricula and have mandatory teacher standards, the gains from early education are lasting. It’s also important that we focus on coordinating investments made in early childhood programs — such as Head Start — to ensure we are effectively using our funding, eliminating any waste and bolstering the structure of our education system. Simplify elementary education By the time Virginians graduate from high school, they have taken at least 35 state-mandated tests in addition to all the classroom testing that good teachers require. This over-testing phenomenon is particularly acute… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://connolly.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=669 | Connolly Votes for Bipartisan Budget Agreement Passed by House | 2013-12-12 | 2013 | 2013-12 | Democrat | House | VA | Gerald Connolly | C001078 | connolly.house.gov | legacy | Congressman Gerry Connolly voted with a majority of House members today to pass the bipartisan budget deal. Statement follows. share: f t Congressman Gerry Connolly voted with a majority of House members today to pass the bipartisan budget deal. Calling it a “hold your nose and vote yes” vote, Connolly cited his concern about another cut in benefits for new federal employees after they have already contributed $114 billion to deficit reduction as a result of a 3-year pay freeze, a reduction in retirement benefits for new hires, and lost pay as a result of furloughs.“Thankfully, we were able to beat back the worst proposals to further encroach on their benefits, and I believe this bipartisan deal will minimize the prospect of additional furloughs,” Connolly said. He vowed to continue fighting efforts by Republicans in Congress to impose further cuts on federal workers.“The budget plan is by no means a perfect deal, but both sides have made concessions so that we may avert a repeat of the disastrous government shutdown and begin to restore some of the draconian cuts caused by sequestration,” he said.Looking forward, Connolly said, “Congress faces many more serious challenges in the coming weeks and months, including the need to raise the debt ceiling, renew long-term transportation funding, and reform our broken immigration system. Perhaps this bipartisan breakthrough will provide the model we need to avoid the “my-way-or-the-highway” shutdown brand of politics that has characterized the Republican philosophy of governance for the last three years.”Connolly’s full statement follows:Congressman Gerald E. Connolly (VA-11th)Statement regarding the House Amendment to the Senate Amendment to H.J.Res. 59 – Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 December 12, 2013This bipartisan budget agreement represents some modicum of compromise, something that has been sorely lacking in this Congress. It is by no means a perfect deal, but both sides have made concessions so that we… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://connolly.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=670 | Connolly Votes for Bipartisan Budget Agreement Passed by House | 2013-12-12 | 2013 | 2013-12 | Democrat | House | VA | Gerald Connolly | C001078 | connolly.house.gov | legacy | Congressman Gerry Connolly voted with a majority of House members today to pass the bipartisan budget deal. Statement follows. share: f t Congressman Gerry Connolly voted with a majority of House members today to pass the bipartisan budget agreement. Calling it a “hold your nose and vote yes” vote, Connolly cited his concern about another cut in benefits for new federal employees after they have already contributed $114 billion to deficit reduction as a result of a 3-year pay freeze, a reduction in retirement benefits for new hires, and lost pay as a result of furloughs.“Thankfully, we were able to beat back the worst proposals to further encroach on their benefits, and I believe this bipartisan deal will minimize the prospect of additional furloughs,” Connolly said. He vowed to continue fighting efforts by Republicans in Congress to impose further cuts on federal workers.“The budget plan is by no means a perfect deal, but both sides have made concessions so that we may avert a repeat of the disastrous government shutdown and begin to restore some of the draconian cuts caused by sequestration,” he said.Looking forward, Connolly said, “Congress faces many more serious challenges in the coming weeks and months, including the need to raise the debt ceiling, renew long-term transportation funding, and reform our broken immigration system. Perhaps this bipartisan breakthrough will provide the model we need to avoid the “my-way-or-the-highway” shutdown brand of politics that has characterized the Republican philosophy of governance for the last three years.”Connolly’s full statement follows:Congressman Gerald E. Connolly (VA-11th)Statement regarding the House Amendment to the Senate Amendment to H.J.Res. 59 – Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 December 12, 2013This bipartisan budget agreement represents some modicum of compromise, something that has been sorely lacking in this Congress. It is by no means a perfect deal, but both sides have made concessions so th… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-highlights-story-of-odu-student-from-staunton-at-press-conference-on-aca-benefits-for-children-with-pre-existing-conditions | Kaine Highlights Story Of ODU Student From Staunton At Press Conference On ACA Benefits For Children With Pre-Existing Conditions | 2013-12-12 | 2013 | 2013-12 | Democrat | House | VA | Tim Kaine | K000384 | www.kaine.senate.gov | legacy | Kaine Highlights Story Of ODU Student From Staunton At Press Conference On ACA Benefits For Children With Pre-Existing Conditions Thursday, December 12, 2013 WASHINGTON, D.C. – At a press conference on Capitol Hill today to highlight how the Affordable Care Act ensures up to 17 million children across the country, including 438,000 in Virginia, with pre-existing conditions are guaranteed health insurance, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine highlighted the story of Ashleigh Campbell, an 18-year-old Old Dominion University student from Staunton who was born with congenital heart disease and other serious medical conditions. “Ashleigh was born with a number of very serious health conditions,” said Kaine. “She has been lucky enough to have insurance through her parents and excellent medical care at the University of Virginia. But she was always concerned about where she would go if she ever lost that protection or when it came time for her to get her own health insurance plan.” Kaine explained that while he supports reforms to improve the Affordable Care Act, he strongly opposes efforts to repeal the legislation, which has protected children and young adults like Ashleigh by preventing insurers from denying them health coverage. “This is a profoundly important moral issue,” said Kaine. “We’re going to work to reform anything that needs to be fixed- that’s what legislators do, more than pass new laws what we do is work on improving existing laws…Of all the reasons to support the ACA, there is no reason more powerful than the ban on discrimination against people with pre-existing conditions.” Kaine concluded his speech by sharing a quote from Ashleigh. “I want people to stop looking at the politics. People like me can’t survive without health care. I wish more people would understand. It would be almost impossible for me to get health insurance without this protection.” Ashleigh said. Prior to the Affordable Care Act, in the vast majority of states, insurance companies in the individual… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.kaine.senate.gov/tim-in-the-news/local-lawmakers-hope-to-blunt-sequestration-hit | Local lawmakers hope to blunt sequestration hit | 2013-12-12 | 2013 | 2013-12 | Democrat | House | VA | Tim Kaine | K000384 | www.kaine.senate.gov | legacy | Local lawmakers hope to blunt sequestration hit By: Bill Bartel Thursday, December 12, 2013 Members of South Hampton Roads' congressional delegation said Wednesday they support a federal budget deal that would reduce the impact of automatic defense cuts over the next two years and salvage lucrative Navy ship repair work that employs thousands in the region. A day after House and Senate negotiators announced a compromise plan that, if approved, would avoid another government shutdown in January, local Democratic and Republican lawmakers voiced support for the plan. None were happy with all details, but they agreed the measure would avoid deeper damage to Virginia's federally dependent economy and could spark more compromise on other issues. U.S. Sen. Tim Kaine said the compromise "will avoid the foolishness of furloughs and shutdowns and brinkmanship that have characterized way too much of the congressional approach to budgeting over the last number of years." "This a good step," U.S. Sen. Mark Warner told the Virginia Chamber of Commerce during a Capitol Hill luncheon, noting that the proposal offers partial relief from the threat of automatic spending cuts, known as sequestration. "In many ways, Virginia is ground zero for the sequester," he told business executives. U.S. Rep. Randy Forbes, who has expressed alarm that defense spending has been cut too deeply for several years, told the lunch crowd he supports the compromise but said it doesn't allay his concerns. "I don't really think it's a step forward," the Chesapeake Republican said. "I think it's an inch forward, but it's much better to inch forward than a deepening spiral downward.... The good thing about this compromise is it stops the hemorrhaging that we've seen in n… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://connolly.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=668 | Connolly Statement on H.R. 2019 | 2013-12-11 | 2013 | 2013-12 | Democrat | House | VA | Gerald Connolly | C001078 | connolly.house.gov | legacy | Connolly Statement on H.R. 2019 f t # e Washington, DC, December 11, 2013 Congressman Connolly released the following statement on H.R. 2019. Read more. share: f t Today House Republicans forced a vote on the cynically misnamed “Kids First Research Act.” The bill purports to increase funding for pediatric research by transferring $12.6 million from the public financing for party nominating conventions. That might sound substantial if it weren’t designed to mask the fact that House Republicans have slashed NIH funding by $4.2 billion in the last three years. In fact, their most recent budget proposal would have cut NIH funding by another 20%. It’s one of the most cynical acts I’ve seen in a Congress and reminds me of what my friend, humorist Jim Boren, used to say, “If you’re going to be a phony, at least be sincere about it.” f t # e | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.kaine.senate.gov/tim-in-the-news/defense-bill-would-help-vets-turn-skills-into-jobs | Defense bill would help vets turn skills into jobs | 2013-12-11 | 2013 | 2013-12 | Democrat | House | VA | Tim Kaine | K000384 | www.kaine.senate.gov | legacy | Defense bill would help vets turn skills into jobs By: Maggie Severns Wednesday, December 11, 2013 A young program designed to help members of the military transfer their skills from service into the workforce could get a boost from the National Defense Authorization Act, which Congress is working to pass before the end of the year. A pilot program allows service members to earn credentials for in-demand jobs in fields in which they may already have specialized skills from their time in the military, such as health care support and aircraft mechanics. Credentials for service members currently in the pilot programs are issued either by the military or an outside party. The current NDAA bill would put quality measures into place in an effort to prevent fraudulent or useless credentials from entering the market, chiefly by requiring credentialing institutions to comply with Title IV of the Higher Education Act. “For many in the private sector this could be a very lucrative business if it’s done right,” said Steve Gonzalez, assistant director at the American Legion. Part of the expansion was originally proposed in a bill called the Troop Talent Act introduced earlier this year by Sen. Tim Kaine (D-Va.) and Rep. Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), and backed strongly by veterans groups such as the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars. The bill earned 99 cosponsors in the House and 18 in the Senate. The bill would also require the military to make more information about credentialing programs available to service members. “These provisions will help ensure servicemembers are provided with the guidance and information they need to translate their military skills into a civilian career, as well as give them peace of mind,” Kaine spokeswo… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.kaine.senate.gov/tim-in-the-news/kaine-rigell-press-case-for-budget-compromise | Kaine, Rigell press case for budget compromise | 2013-12-11 | 2013 | 2013-12 | Democrat | House | VA | Tim Kaine | K000384 | www.kaine.senate.gov | legacy | Kaine, Rigell press case for budget compromise By: Dave Ress Wednesday, December 11, 2013 Lawmakers in Washington have heard a fair amount about a couple of Norfolk-based Navy captains recently – and likely will continue to in the next couple days as they decide whether to approve a budget compromise hammered out this week, Sen. Tim Kaine admits. "I've mentioned them a lot," Kaine said Wednesday. He said he's been making a case for a budget compromise by repeating comments they made to him during a recent visit to Norfolk about how much they and their sailors rely on civilian Defense Department staff and the workers at BAE Systems Ship Repair. His point is that government shutdowns that furlough civilian DoD staff and across-the-board spending cuts that hit defense contractors also hurt men and women in uniform. He's hoping that word leads Congress to approve the compromise reached by the budget conference committee this week. Rep. Scott Rigell, R-Virginia Beach, has been doing much the same. He stood up when the GOP House caucus gathered Wednesday morning to relay what sailors from admirals to master chiefs have been telling him about how a lack of a real budget is hurting the nation's defense. "I've got colleagues, maybe they come from a place where there's not much military presence, or no bases, and I think it is part of my job to help them understand what we see in Hampton Roads," he said. Rigell and Kaine agree that relying on continuing resolutions – the short-term agreements that say the government can continue spending what it had been spending – instead of actually writing a budget harms the military's ability to plan. And the automatic across-the-board budget cuts, which Washingtonians call sequester, can be devast… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.kaine.senate.gov/tim-in-the-news/kaine-says-budget-deal-will-help-virginias-economy | Kaine says budget deal will help Virginia’s economy | 2013-12-11 | 2013 | 2013-12 | Democrat | House | VA | Tim Kaine | K000384 | www.kaine.senate.gov | legacy | Kaine says budget deal will help Virginia’s economy By: Michael Sluss Wednesday, December 11, 2013 U.S. Sen. Tim Kaine said today that the budget agreement struck by House and Senate negotiators will boost Virginia’s economy by averting another round of automatic defense cuts and removing the prospect of another federal government shutdown. “A two-year budget deal means we’re not going to be doing that kind of brinksmanship,” Kaine said in a telephone interview .”That is going to have a positive effect on the Virginia economy.” Kaine and fellow Virginia Democrat Mark Warner were on the bipartisan conference committee that struck the deal with House negotiators. The agreement would fund federal agencies through October 2015 and replace automatic defense and discretionary spending cuts with targeted reductions and some fee increases. It also would restore some budget normalcy in a Congress that has lurched from one fiscal crisis to another over the last three years. “I liked the fact the we got a deal and I like the fact that we stretched it and got a two-year deal,” Kaine said. “I like the fact that we’ve replaced $63 billion of sequester cuts over two years with more targeted cuts and some revenues through fees. The across-the-board cuts make no sense. You should make cuts and all decisions based on priority judgments and performance data rather than across the board.” Kaine noted that the conference committee agreed to a fiscal 2014 spending level of $1.012 trillion, splitting the difference between the House and Senate proposals. And like most compromises, Kaine found some things in the deal he doesn’t like. The compromise makes adjustments to military retirement benefits and will require new civilian federal employees to con… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=7f7789b9-ea84-4147-b08b-45205440caae | Warner Leads Bipartisan Group in Introducing Bill to Exempt Volunteer First Responders from Healthcare Mandate | 2013-12-11 | 2013 | 2013-12 | Democrat | House | VA | Mark Warner | W000805 | www.warner.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON -- U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) led a group of Senators in introducing bipartisan legislation to ensure volunteer firefighters and other first responders can continue protecting communities that rely on them. The Protect Volunteer Firefighters and Emergency Responders Act, which is cosponsored by Sens. Joe Manchin (D-WV), Pat Toomey (R-PA), Angus King (I-ME), Susan Collins (R-ME), and Mark Begich (D-AK), amends the Affordable Care Act to make it clear that volunteer emergency service workers are not required to be counted as full-time equivalent employees (FTEs) for purposes of healthcare coverage. Companion legislation has been introduced in the House by Rep. Lou Barletta (R-PA-11). Some volunteer firefighters are nominally paid, and most volunteer first responders have other full-time employment. Many emergency response agencies do not have the resources to provide pay or benefits to volunteers, nor do most volunteer first responders expect to receive compensation or health coverage as a result of their volunteer public service. An estimated 48,000 volunteer firefighters serve across Virginia and an estimated 454 volunteer EMT's, according to the Virginia Department of Fire Programs the Virginia Department of Health, respectively. “Properly distinguishing between full-time, paid emergency responders and volunteers is necessary if we want to protect essential emergency response agencies that keep our communities safe and protect over one-third of the U.S. population,” Sen. Warner said. “I’ve said all along that there will be issues that arise with health care reform and we should deal with them in a bipartisan manner. I am proud to offer this legislation to protect those who protect us.” “We all know that the main goal of the Affordable Care Act is to provide all Americans with accessible and affordable health care coverage,” Sen. Manchin said. “However, we also know that there have been many missteps and unintentional consequences during the implementation of this law. Due to a technical er… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/grassley-kaine-introduce-bill-to-improve-sibling-connections-in-child-welfare-system | Grassley, Kaine Introduce Bill to Improve Sibling Connections in Child Welfare System | 2013-12-10 | 2013 | 2013-12 | Democrat | House | VA | Tim Kaine | K000384 | www.kaine.senate.gov | legacy | Grassley, Kaine Introduce Bill to Improve Sibling Connections in Child Welfare System Tuesday, December 10, 2013 WASHINGTON – Sen. Chuck Grassley of Iowa and Sen. Tim Kaine of Virginia today introduced legislation to improve sibling connections in the child welfare system. “Child welfare experts tell you and common sense tells you children benefit when they’re kept together and have strong relationships,” Grassley said. “Our bill removes barriers to federal law that prevent families of siblings from knowing when a child is placed in foster care or siblings from losing ties when parental rights are terminated. This will help maintain sibling relationships and in turn help the kids.” “Ensuring that children in the child welfare system remain connected to their siblings provides them with continuity and support,” said Kaine. “My wife Anne is a longtime advocate for foster children and during my term as Governor we successfully strengthened permanent family connections for older children in foster care through the ‘For Keeps’ initiative and increased funding to recruit more foster and adoptive parents. Today I’m proud to introduce the Sibling Connections Act that will keep brothers and sisters together and result in fewer emotional and behavioral problems down the line." Grassley and Kaine said the Grassley-authored Fostering Connections to Success and Increasing Adoptions Act of 2008 made great strides to improve child welfare but several obstacles impede sibling relationships. The Sibling Connections Act introduced today follows the example of at least five states, including Iowa, that have passed legislation or regulation that recognizes the parents of siblings as “relatives” for foster care placement. That means the parents of a child’s siblings are notified when the child enters foster care, allowing the adult guardians to try to maintain the sibling relationships. Also, the Grassley-Kaine bill would correct the current situation in which siblings lose their st… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-statement-on-budget-deal- | Kaine Statement On Budget Deal | 2013-12-10 | 2013 | 2013-12 | Democrat | House | VA | Tim Kaine | K000384 | www.kaine.senate.gov | legacy | Kaine Statement On Budget Deal Tuesday, December 10, 2013 WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tim Kaine, a member of the bipartisan Budget Conference Committee, released the following statement on the budget deal reached today: “Ever since I took office last January, I made it a mission to do everything I could to replace the across-the-board sequester cuts that have so severely hurt Virginia and return to normal budgetary order. I even delivered my maiden floor speech last February on the urgent need to find compromise and avert sequestration. Tonight, I’m pleased that after passing a Senate budget for the first time in four years and going to conference with the House, a deal has been reached. “I’m disappointed that reductions in the cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for military retirees and cuts to federal employee benefits were included. But the deal goes a long way toward alleviating the most harmful effects of sequestration next year – cuts that have disproportionately impacted federal employees and the defense community – and restoring basic economic certainty to businesses and families across the Commonwealth. It also ensures we won’t suffer another damaging government shutdown next month that would have resulted in more negative consequences for federal employees. “The two-year, bipartisan agreement will relieve $63 billion of sequester cuts for 2014 and 2015. It will also avert additional defense cuts – including $20 billion in cuts that were set to take effect in January 2014 – and replace non-defense cuts over the next two years. We’ve also given appropriators the certainty they need to write full appropriations bills – a significant step toward ending the dangerous pattern of stopgap, governing-by-crisis measures that have plagued the budgeting process in recent years. “While I’m still examining the details of the deal, I am pleased a spirit of compromise and cooperation prevailed.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-statement-on-confirmation-of-patricia-millett-to-dc-circuit | Kaine Statement On Confirmation Of Patricia Millett To D.C. Circuit | 2013-12-10 | 2013 | 2013-12 | Democrat | House | VA | Tim Kaine | K000384 | www.kaine.senate.gov | legacy | Kaine Statement On Confirmation Of Patricia Millett To D.C. Circuit Tuesday, December 10, 2013 WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tim Kaine released the following statement after the Senate voted to confirm the nomination of Patricia Millett, of Alexandria, Virginia, to serve on the United States Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit: “With Pattie Millett's confirmation to the D.C. Circuit, the court gains a supremely qualified jurist with a strong record of bipartisan public service under both Democratic and Republican administrations. Pattie’s career has prepared her well for this post and I was honored to introduce her at her confirmation hearing before the Senate Judiciary Committee. On top of her impressive career and educational experience, Pattie is a proud military spouse who will represent the unique perspective of military families.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.kaine.senate.gov/commonwealth-connection/lessons-learned-from-40-school-years | Lessons Learned From 40 School Years | 2013-12-09 | 2013 | 2013-12 | Democrat | House | VA | Tim Kaine | K000384 | www.kaine.senate.gov | legacy | Monday, December 9, 2013 Lessons Learned From 40 School Years by Tim Kaine This article was posted on November 27 by Tom Segal in the Education Week blog, Reimagining K-12. My wife Anne and I are now empty-nesters. Our daughter just left home for college, joining two older brothers out in the wide world. We are experiencing many emotions--pride in our three kids, hope that we've given them the character skills to negotiate life's ups and downs, melancholia over the passage of time, and curiosity about how we'll manage the shift to a kid-free house after 23 years. Earlier this summer, it also dawned on me that Anne and I are done with our journey through American public education. Our kids all went to Richmond Public Schools (RPS). They attended neighborhood elementary schools, neighborhood and magnet middle schools, and magnet high schools. My youngest even spent a year in our state's recently initiated Pre-K program. They've spent a combined total of 40 years in public pre-K/12 classrooms. I've worked hard as a public official on educational issues like early childhood programs, career and technical education, and curricular reform. When I was Richmond's mayor, I visited a city school every Tuesday morning. When I was lieutenant governor and governor, I visited at least one school in every one of Virginia's 134 cities and counties. And my wife Anne has interacted intimately with kids and the school system during her career as a juvenile court judge and foster care reform advocate. And yet, despite our professional involvement, our real knowledge of public education comes from back-to-school nights, parent-teacher conferences, helping with homework, pulling crumpled notes to parents out of backpacks, attending plays, band concerts, dance recitals, sporting events, and the countless other interactions that involved parents have with their kids' schools. So, what have we learned? Let's s… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.kaine.senate.gov/tim-in-the-news/navy-is-still-vital-in-the-middle-east-kaine-says | Navy is still vital in the Middle East, Kaine says | 2013-12-08 | 2013 | 2013-12 | Democrat | House | VA | Tim Kaine | K000384 | www.kaine.senate.gov | legacy | Navy is still vital in the Middle East, Kaine says By: Bill Bartel Sunday, December 8, 2013 The Navy's presence in the Middle East isn't going to diminish any time soon even with the war in Afghanistan winding down, U.S. Sen. Tim Kaine said Friday. Speaking from Manama, Bahrain, where he is attending an international security conference, Kaine said the Navy's 5th Fleet has a vital role in protecting sea lanes for commerce. "The transit of oil and other goods through the Strait of Hormuz are going to continue to be very critical," he said in a conference call with reporters. "The Navy will be here in a very significant way," said Kaine, who had lunch with sailors aboard the San Jacinto, a Norfolk-based guided missile cruiser. "... There would be no strategic reason for us to be reducing presence here." However, he said, some "non-strategic factors" - including automatic defense budget cuts and Congress's inability to approve a budget - could affect military operations. "That's the asterisk right now." The Virginia Democrat is a member of a House-Senate committee attempting to negotiate a budget deal. The committee's leaders are attempting to draft a proposal to bring before both chambers before the House's scheduled adjournment Friday. Kaine, who also serves on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, said his message at the annual Manama Dialogue - a meeting of Middle Eastern nations and their allies - is that the U.S. role in the region is becoming less military-oriented. "We are in a time of transition," he said. "The attack of 9/11 gave us a very focused kind of lens through which to view our foreign policy responses... and that was fighting terrorism." The U.S. is working on a broader foreign policy, Kaine said, that focus… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.kaine.senate.gov/tim-in-the-news/us-not-abandoning-afghanistan-kaine-tells-regional-leaders | U.S. not abandoning Afghanistan, Kaine tells regional leaders | 2013-12-07 | 2013 | 2013-12 | Democrat | House | VA | Tim Kaine | K000384 | www.kaine.senate.gov | legacy | U.S. not abandoning Afghanistan, Kaine tells regional leaders By: Markus Schmidt Saturday, December 7, 2013 Sen. Timothy M. Kaine, D-Va., assured political leaders and diplomats at a security summit in Bahrain Friday that the United States has no plans to abandon the Middle East and connecting regions, despite a significant reduction of forces in Iraq and President Barack Obama’s vow to end combat operations in Afghanistan after 2014. “We are not withdrawing from the region and we are not rebalancing somewhere else,” Kaine said in a phone interview from Manama, the capital and largest city of Bahrain. Kaine said the U.S. is open to negotiate a continuation of an American military presence in Afghanistan beyond 2014. “We think that will be helpful to the country. We’ve seen such tremendous gains and we want to continue to be there providing training and assisting. But the question is if Afghanistan wants us to do it or not, that’s for them to decide,” he said. The Obama administration last month reiterated its position that there may be no residual force in Afghanistan after 2014 unless President Hamid Karzai signs a new security agreement with the U.S. According to a statement released by the administration in November, National Security Adviser Susan Rice told Karzai that, “without a prompt signature, the U.S. would have no choice but to initiate planning for a post-2014 future in which there would be no U.S. or NATO troop presence in Afghanistan.” Kaine traveled to Bahrain Thursday to visit the U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/U.S. Fifth Fleet. On Friday, he participated in a panel discussion at the 2013 Manama Dialogue, an annual security summit hosted by the Institute for International Strategic Studies. Kaine said he pla… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-joins-31-us-senators-to-urge-reauthorization-of-key-unemployment-insurance-program | Kaine Joins 31 U.S. Senators to Urge Reauthorization of Key Unemployment Insurance Program | 2013-12-06 | 2013 | 2013-12 | Democrat | House | VA | Tim Kaine | K000384 | www.kaine.senate.gov | legacy | Kaine Joins 31 U.S. Senators to Urge Reauthorization of Key Unemployment Insurance Program Friday, December 6, 2013 WASHINGTON, D.C. – In an effort to prevent more than 1.3 million long-term unemployed workers from losing their unemployment insurance at the end of December -- and millions more from having no benefits after their initial 26 weeks of unemployment insurance (UI) are exhausted during the course of 2014 – U.S. Senator Tim Kaine joined 31 U.S. Senators to send a letter urging Congress to preserve federal unemployment insurance for another year. With just 23 days before federal UI benefits are set to expire, the Senators wrote: “We are writing to urge the continuation of federal support for unemployment insurance, a critical component of our ongoing recovery and a lifeline to millions of Americans as they search for work in this challenging economy. As it stands now, a few days after the holiday season ends, unemployment insurance will abruptly terminate, cutting off support for 1.3 million Americans.” The unemployment insurance system is a partnership between the federal government and state governments that provides a temporary weekly benefit to qualified workers who lose their job and are seeking work. The amount of that benefit is based in part on a worker’s past earnings. The extended federal UI program was signed into law in June 2008 by President George W. Bush, when the national unemployment rate was 5.6% and the average duration of jobless insurance was 17.1 weeks. It has been reauthorized by Congress a number of times since as America seeks to emerge from the greatest economic recession since the Great Depression. Today, the national unemployment rate is 7% and the average duration of UI benefits is 36.1 weeks, which is much longer than the 26 weeks of unemployment coverage that most states provide. According to the non-partisan Center on Budget and Policy Priorities (CBPP), the long-term unemployment rate is falling, but it's still at 2.6%, whic… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/photos-kaine-meets-with-virginians-serving-with-fifth-fleet-tours-norfolk-based-uss-san-jacinto-in-bahrain | Photos: Kaine Meets With Virginians Serving With Fifth Fleet, Tours Norfolk-Based USS San Jacinto In Bahrain | 2013-12-06 | 2013 | 2013-12 | Democrat | House | VA | Tim Kaine | K000384 | www.kaine.senate.gov | legacy | Photos: Kaine Meets With Virginians Serving With Fifth Fleet, Tours Norfolk-Based USS San Jacinto In Bahrain Friday, December 6, 2013 WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, during a visit to U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/U.S. Fifth Fleet (NAVCENT) in Bahrain, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine toured the Norfolk-based USS San Jacinto and met with Virginians serving with the U.S. Navy’s Fifth Fleet and Combined Maritime Forces. “I had the chance to board and visit the crew of the USS San Jacinto which deployed out of Norfolk a few months back when the Harry S. Truman deployed. They’re in dock here in Bahrain and I had a chance to visit with them and have lunch with a number of Virginians who serve in the Navy and a couple of folks in the Marines as well,” said Kaine. "I talked with them about a range of issues, from the bigger picture security challenges facing the region, to how come traffic is still so bad in Hampton Roads. Any time I have a chance to spend time with those who serve and especially those from Virginia who serve, I always walk away with a sense of pride and admiration.” While in Bahrain, Kaine is participating in the 2013 Manama Dialogue, the International Institute for Strategic Studies’ 9th annual regional security conference. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.kaine.senate.gov/tim-in-the-news/kaine-navy-has-long-term-role-in-gulf | Kaine: Navy has long-term role in Gulf | 2013-12-06 | 2013 | 2013-12 | Democrat | House | VA | Tim Kaine | K000384 | www.kaine.senate.gov | legacy | Kaine: Navy has long-term role in Gulf By: Dave Ress Friday, December 6, 2013 Sailors from Hampton Roads are likely to keep steaming east to the Persian Gulf for some time to come, playing a critical role in keep sea lanes open through the Strait of Hormuz that links the oil-rich area to the rest of the world, Sen. Tim Kaine said Friday, during a break in a visit to the region. Kaine, chairman of the Senate subcommittee that focuses on the Middle East and South Asia, spoke after visiting with U.S. Naval Forces Central Command and Fifth Fleet in Bahrain. "I think the Navy will be here in a significant way," he said. He said the intensity of the naval effort probably will not diminish any time soon. "We're doing a better job with energy independence, but even if we get to energy independence by 2020, disrupting oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz would have a significant negative impact on the global economy," he said. The effect of that on the United States would be severe, he added. But Kaine said while strategic needs dictate a continuing U.S. Navy presence in the Gulf, one thing that could force a pullback was "this foolish sequestration — that's the asterisk right now." During his visit in Bahrain, Kaine visited the Norfolk-based USS San Jacinto and met with Virginian sailors and Marines stationed there, sharing lunch and fielding questions from them. The very first question he got was about the federal budget impasse and whether the conference committee he serves on can hit a Dec. 13 deadline for reaching a compromise to avoid another government shutdown. Kaine said he is still optimistic that the committee will come up with a plan for 2014, and possibly for 2015 as well. He said Navy brass in Bahrain said they're … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://connolly.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=667 | Connolly & Moran Oppose GOP Budget Plan to Cut Federal Workers' Retirement | 2013-12-05 | 2013 | 2013-12 | Democrat | House | VA | Gerald Connolly | C001078 | connolly.house.gov | legacy | Connolly & Moran Oppose GOP Budget Plan to Cut Federal Workers' Retirement f t # e Washington, DC, December 5, 2013 Representatives Gerry Connolly and Jim Moran said today that they will oppose a budget deal that makes unfair and indiscriminate cuts to federal employee pay or retirement benefits. Read more. share: f t Representatives Gerry Connolly and Jim Moran said today that they will oppose a budget deal that makes unfair and indiscriminate cuts to federal employee pay or retirement benefits. Numerous reports have indicated that Republican negotiators are demanding a reduction in federal employee retirement benefits in an attempt to offset sequestration cuts.The two Virginia Democrats released the following statement:“No other group has been asked to make the same sacrifice as our federal workforce. To date, they have contributed $114 billion to deficit reduction, endured a 3-year pay freeze, had retirement benefits reduced for new hires, lived through a 16-day shutdown, and lost pay as a result of furloughs. Per capita, that’s nearly $50,000 per employee - far more than any other American has been asked to contribute towards deficit reduction.“Enough is enough. Congress must find a budget deal that protects federal employees, removes sequester level spending caps, and finally acknowledges the value of federal service.” f t # e | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-statement-on-passing-of-nelson-mandela | Kaine Statement On Passing Of Nelson Mandela | 2013-12-05 | 2013 | 2013-12 | Democrat | House | VA | Tim Kaine | K000384 | www.kaine.senate.gov | legacy | Kaine Statement On Passing Of Nelson Mandela Thursday, December 5, 2013 WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Tim Kaine released the following statement on the passing of former South African President Nelson Mandela: "The world has lost a great leader and advocate for equality with the loss of President Mandela but his legacy lives on in a democratic and free South Africa. I join millions across the globe in mourning his passing and hope his life will continue to inspire new generations of leaders to fight for more inclusive and just societies." ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/warner-kaine-announce-1-million-grant-to-improve-water-quality-in-wise-county | Warner, Kaine Announce $1 Million Grant To Improve Water Quality In Wise County | 2013-12-05 | 2013 | 2013-12 | Democrat | House | VA | Tim Kaine | K000384 | www.kaine.senate.gov | legacy | Warner, Kaine Announce $1 Million Grant To Improve Water Quality In Wise County Thursday, December 5, 2013 WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senators Mark Warner and Tim Kaine announced today that Virginia has received a $1 million grant from the Department of Agriculture to improve water quality in Wise County. The $1 million grant, combined with a $276,000 loan, will help fund a public sewer system in the communities of Osaka and Roda, which have faced public health issues and environmental concerns due to direct sewage discharge into streams. The project will serve 73 households in Wise County. “Expanding access to clean, reliable public water supplies has been a priority of mine since I served as Governor, when we extended access to more than 70,000 Virginians while also making record investments in Virginia’s Water Quality Improvement Fund,” Sen. Warner said. “This is a welcome and significant step to promote public health and support improved water quality in Wise County.” “It’s critical for public health and quality of life that every Virginia community can depend on reliable water and wastewater infrastructure,” said Kaine. "I am pleased with this major new investment in Southwest Virginia, and I am committed to supporting these essential infrastructure needs even in tight budgetary times, particularly in rural communities." | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=4b086f22-f572-4d27-9fb3-7e0a83f2074a | Statement on the death of Nelson Mandela | 2013-12-05 | 2013 | 2013-12 | Democrat | House | VA | Mark Warner | W000805 | www.warner.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON - U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner released the following statement: "So sad to hear the news about Nelson Mandela. Few people in history have represented such a positive, lifelong force for change. Rest in peace." | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=5bda471f-3c63-4a14-8df8-2add0ab1f4ab | Warner, Kaine Announce $1 Million Grant To Improve Water Quality In Wise County | 2013-12-05 | 2013 | 2013-12 | Democrat | House | VA | Mark Warner | W000805 | www.warner.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senators Mark Warner and Tim Kaine announced today that Virginia has received a $1 million grant from the Department of Agriculture to improve water quality in Wise County. The $1 million grant, combined with a $276,000 loan, will help fund a public sewer system in the communities of Osaka and Roda, which have faced public health issues and environmental concerns due to direct sewage discharge into streams. The project will serve 73 households in Wise County. “Expanding access to clean, reliable public water supplies has been a priority of mine since I served as Governor, when we extended access to more than 70,000 Virginians while also making record investments in Virginia’s Water Quality Improvement Fund,” Sen. Warner said. “This is a welcome and significant step to promote public health and support improved water quality in Wise County.” “It’s critical for public health and quality of life that every Virginia community can depend on reliable water and wastewater infrastructure,” said Kaine. "I am pleased with this major new investment in Southwest Virginia, and I am committed to supporting these essential infrastructure needs even in tight budgetary times, particularly in rural communities." | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-discusses-high-tech-manufacturing-and-workforce-development-in-roanoke | Kaine Discusses High-Tech Manufacturing And Workforce Development In Roanoke | 2013-12-03 | 2013 | 2013-12 | Democrat | House | VA | Tim Kaine | K000384 | www.kaine.senate.gov | legacy | Kaine Discusses High-Tech Manufacturing And Workforce Development In Roanoke Tuesday, December 3, 2013 WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine visited high-tech manufacturing facility PlasticsOne Inc. to learn about the growth of manufacturing in the Roanoke Valley and discuss the importance of developing a talented workforce to meet the needs of a 21st century global economy. While at the facility, Kaine tested the ORIGOSafeTM product, a cell phone dock that aims to reduce distracted driving collisions and enhance road safety by limiting drivers to hands-free functions and disabling handheld cell phone features behind the wheel, including text messaging. ORIGOSafeTM components are manufactured by three Roanoke Valley companies and assembled at ORIGO’s™ headquarters in Roanoke. During the tour, Kaine spoke with PlasticsOne Inc. employees and members of the manufacturing community about ways to improve local workforce development programs and equip the next generation of workers with the necessary skills to remain competitive. Kaine also discussed the importance of strengthening career and technical training as well as Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education in the Commonwealth. "American manufacturing is becoming much more technologically sophisticated and we're seeing shortages of people with technical backgrounds," said Kaine. "When I was Governor we worked on creating a technical diploma you could get in high school focusing on career and technical education and I look forward to working on similar legislation at the federal level. There are so many technical jobs that produce a great living, but students don't always receive the information that would allow them to choose those career fields." Kaine recently wrote an op-ed on the importance of investing in early childhood education programs and cited the positive impact such programs have had on the competitiveness of Virginia’s workforce. Since July, Kaine has also visited Dublin, B… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.kaine.senate.gov/tim-in-the-news/focus-on-high-tech-manufacturing-and-homegrown-jobs-as-kaine-visits-roanoke-valley | Focus on high-tech manufacturing and homegrown jobs as Kaine visits Roanoke Valley | 2013-12-03 | 2013 | 2013-12 | Democrat | House | VA | Tim Kaine | K000384 | www.kaine.senate.gov | legacy | Focus on high-tech manufacturing and homegrown jobs as Kaine visits Roanoke Valley By: Joe Dashiell Tuesday, December 3, 2013 First, he turned the key and nothing happened. But once Senator Tim Kaine placed the cell phone in the ORIGOsafe docking station, he was able to start the car. The ignition interlock system designed by ORIGO doesn't prevent drivers from making or taking a call, but it keeps the phone out of their hands. It's a simple solution, the company says, for parents concerned about teenage drivers, or a company with a fleet of vehicles on the road. Kaine took a closer look at the technology Tuesday during a visit to the Roanoke Valley, and ORIGO wasn't the only company in the spotlight. Kaine visited PlasticsOne where components of the device are manufactured. He spoke with executives of Keltech which makes the circuit boards, and leaders of Corrugated Container Corporation, which produces the packaging. The Roanoke Valley companies, Kaine said, prove that American manufacturing is alive and well. "We still do manufacturing with the best of them," Kaine told WDBJ7, "and PlasticsOne and ORIGO here are producing a really innovative product that's unique in the world, that's one of a kind. And it's a really important safety solution. " ORIGO founder Clay Skelton says the military and many federal agencies could benefit from using his solution for distracted driving, and he's hopeful Kaine's support will help to open doors for the technology. He also believes the Virginia General Assembly should tighten state laws that target texting while driving, so that police officers can pull over a car, if they simply see a phone in the driver's hand. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.kaine.senate.gov/tim-in-the-news/roanoke-co-company-hopes-to-end-distracted-driving | Roanoke Co. Company Hopes to End Distracted Driving | 2013-12-03 | 2013 | 2013-12 | Democrat | House | VA | Tim Kaine | K000384 | www.kaine.senate.gov | legacy | Roanoke Co. Company Hopes to End Distracted Driving By: David Tate Tuesday, December 3, 2013 A Roanoke County company thinks they have solved a problem that kills thousands of Americans every year: distracted driving. Just three years old, Origo attributes its success to local partners and key legislation pushed by then Governor Tim Kaine. There is no shortage of stories involving distracted driving. If the folks behind Origo have their way, it'll be a thing of the past. Senator Tim Kaine came to Roanoke County to get an idea about a new homegrown product inspired by his legislation making it illegal to text and drive. The legislation passed in 2009. Clay Skelton says his invention, called OrigoSafe, is an easy way to prevent thousands of deaths every year. "It's a long time coming and needs to have more teeth in Virginia and the rest of the country and to give the troopers and the sheriff's and the police what they need to enforce that law," Skelton said. "If you can solve that problem... look, you are helping quality of life. Very, very powerful for the economy, you're helping businesses that rely on driving but you're also creating jobs right here in Roanoke," said Senator Kaine. While Senator Kaine's legislation put OrigoSafe on the drawing board, Skelton's dream was also contingent on different industries. He needed an electronics company, a plastics company, and a packaging company to back him. "The first place I looked was on the internet and around the world: Who can mold this plastic? Who can make this circuit board... whatever," Skelton said. The more Skelton researched, the more he realized the three industries he needed were already in the Roanoke Valley. "Before you go looking in another state or another countr… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-discusses-efforts-to-end-sequester-at-bae-in-norfolk | Kaine Discusses Efforts To End Sequester At BAE In Norfolk | 2013-12-02 | 2013 | 2013-12 | Democrat | House | VA | Tim Kaine | K000384 | www.kaine.senate.gov | legacy | Kaine Discusses Efforts To End Sequester At BAE In Norfolk Monday, December 2, 2013 WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tim Kaine, a member of the Armed Services Committee and the Budget Conference Committee, visited BAE Systems Ship Repair in Norfolk today to meet with shipyard workers and tour the facility. During the tour, Kaine learned more about the toll sequestration has taken on the ship repair industry, putting both the nation’s security and the regional economy at risk. Throughout the tour, Kaine spoke with BAE employees and shared the latest on his efforts to replace the across-the-board sequester cuts and restore budget certainty for BAE and other companies in the region. As one of 29 conferees on the Budget Conference Committee, Kaine is working to resolve differences between the House and Senate 2014 budgets before December 13. “My role on the Budget Conference Committee is to come up with a deal that replaces as much of the sequester cuts as we can,” Kaine said at the conclusion of the tour. “The uncertainty over ship repair contracts puts many important jobs across the region at risk. We're working hard to meet our December 13 deadline and I'm optimistic we will get a deal to replace as many of these harmful across-the-board cuts as we can. And if there are areas where we cannot replace them all, we can restructure them to make them less painful.” Since passage of the Senate budget in March 2013, Kaine has consistently called for a budget conference between the House and Senate in hopes of returning to normal budgetary order and replacing the damaging sequester cuts that have severely impacted Virginia. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.kaine.senate.gov/tim-in-the-news/a-very-personal-reflect-on-school-from-sen-kaine | A very personal reflect on school from Sen. Kaine | 2013-11-29 | 2013 | 2013-11 | Democrat | House | VA | Tim Kaine | K000384 | www.kaine.senate.gov | legacy | “One of our children needed an Individualized Education Program (IEP) for one year -- focused attention during that year solved a speech deficit,” Kaine remembers. “So, the natural question is, why don't we personalize learning for every student? Shouldn't we strive for an educational model that involves individualized education for all? We don't live in a 'one size fits all' world and our education system should reflect that.” It’s not as daunting to teach child-by-child as you might think, either. Kaine himself tried, working at a small vocational school in El Progreso, Honduras in 1980-81. “When I arrived, a fine carpenter was teaching the boys … He would give students projects that were too easy or too hard,” Kaine writes. Kaine worked up a list of about 60 projects for the kids, arranged fromeasiest to hardest and “Within a few months, the kids were all working on different projects, but developing at their own pace in a way that was simple for a single teacher to administer.” Kaine also writes that his daughter’s experience in Virignia’s Pre-K program convinced him of the importance of early childhood education – a view that Virginians from across the political spectrum have come to agree on, from Kaine himself to Republican former Gov. George Allen, who kicked off the state effort, and now the state Chamber of Commerce, as it unveiled its Blueprint Virginia proposals for the state's economic development at a conference in Williamsburg last week. “My children have all attended schools subject to high stakes tests pursuant to the Virginia Standards of Learning that were adopted in the 1990s as a forerunner of the federal No Child Left Behind law,” Kaine continues. “Unlike some who dismiss the idea of tests out of hand, or shake their fists at federal involvement, I see value in having standards and having periodic assessments … But there are serious problems," he writes. One is that tests make a minimum standard the benchmark of success, rather than anything more ambitious. Another is a tendency … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.kaine.senate.gov/tim-in-the-news/lessons-learned-from-40-school-years | Lessons Learned from 40 School Years | 2013-11-27 | 2013 | 2013-11 | Democrat | House | VA | Tim Kaine | K000384 | www.kaine.senate.gov | legacy | Lessons Learned from 40 School Years Guest post by Tim Kaine, senator and former governor of Virginia. By: Tom Segal Wednesday, November 27, 2013 Guest post by Tim Kaine, senator and former governor of Virginia. Tom's note: Inarguably, there is no single sector of the economy that influences the rest quite as directly and profoundly as K-12 education. This is the sector that prepares our future generations of leaders, innovators, producers, consumers, mothers, fathers, and citizens. As taxpayers, we all play a role in financing the K-12 education system, but a select few possess the power to heavily influence where those funds are allocated and how that system is constructed. As such, I thought it might be a valuable exercise to give these folks at the top of the public policy food chain a place to voice their education-related opinions (edpinions?), a place to recall their own observations of the K-12 education system, so that you, the loyal reader, might better understand the experiences and beliefs that are at the core of our national (and global) progress. Amazingly, somebody with legitimate influence agreed with me. With that, allow me to present the following words from Sen. Tim Kaine (D-Va.) on the things he has learned as a parent, consumer, and participant within the K-12 education system. Many thanks to Sen. Kaine and his team for facilitating this blog post. Sen. Kaine, the floor is yours: My wife Anne and I are now empty-nesters. Our daughter just left home for college, joining two older brothers out in the wide world. We are experiencing many emotions--pride in our three kids, hope that we've given them the character skills to negotiate life's ups and downs, melancholia over the pa… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/warner-kaine-call-on-administration-for-sustained-ceo-leadership-to-fix-healthcaregov | Warner, Kaine Call on Administration for Sustained CEO Leadership to Fix Healthcare.Gov | 2013-11-26 | 2013 | 2013-11 | Democrat | House | VA | Tim Kaine | K000384 | www.kaine.senate.gov | legacy | Warner, Kaine Call on Administration for Sustained CEO Leadership to Fix Healthcare.Gov As technical problems with healthcare website continue, Senators urge President to swiftly appoint leadership to oversee fixes through 2015 enrollment period Tuesday, November 26, 2013 WASHINGTON, D.C. – As Americans continue to experience technical difficulties with federal and state health insurance enrollment, U.S. Senators Mark Warner and Tim Kaine joined a coalition of Senators in calling on President Obama to quickly appoint a long-term replacement for Jeffrey Zients, who is departing to become director of the National Economic Council on January 2, to oversee the technical repair of healthcare.gov. In a letter delivered to the Administration today, the Senators called on President Obama to appoint an individual who would report directly to the president and be “empowered with the authority to ensure that healthcare.gov is fixed quickly, completely, and permanently.” “While we cannot go backward and correct mistakes made, we must now work together to fix the law so that it works for all Americans,” the letter read. The Senators continued, “A project of this size and scope demands the sustained leadership and day-to-day management of a chief executive officer – someone whose sole responsibility would be an unrelenting focus on healthcare.gov and who has experience overseeing large and complex consumer-facing technology projects.” “Sustaining the steady management focus that this position has already brought to the project would go a long way toward earning back the trust jeopardized by last month’s deeply flawed rollout,” the Senators added. The full text of the Senators’ letter is below: November 25, 2013 President Barack Obama The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W. Washington, DC 20500 Dear Mr. President: As supporters of the Affordable Care Act, we have been deeply disappointed and frustrated with the many problems surrounding the law’s rollout, incl… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.kaine.senate.gov/tim-in-the-news/va-senators-hope-for-plan-to-delay-some-defense-cuts | Va. senators hope for plan to delay some defense cuts | 2013-11-26 | 2013 | 2013-11 | Democrat | House | VA | Tim Kaine | K000384 | www.kaine.senate.gov | legacy | Va. senators hope for plan to delay some defense cuts By: Bill Bartel Tuesday, November 26, 2013 Virginia's two U.S. senators predicted Monday that a committee attempting to reach a budget deal and avoid another government shutdown may be able to provide relief from some automatic defense cuts - but not all of them. Sens. Mark Warner and Tim Kaine aren't expecting the panel to draft a long-range plan to address deficit and spending issues, but they hope to see a one- or two-year budget that gives some certainty to federal spending. The two Democrats are part of the 29-member House and Senate committee formed in October, in the wake of the government shutdown, tasked with drafting an annual budget. Congress approved a temporary spending plan to reopen the government after the 16-day shutdown. The bipartisan group has until mid-December to draft a plan for the consideration of the entire Congress before Jan. 15, when the government runs out of money. "The 'big deal' is probably not going to happen this time," Warner said in a radio interview in Charlottesville. "What may happen - and what I hope will happen - is we at least get a budget for the rest of this year and maybe next year and get rid of the worst parts of sequestration." Sequestration, a mandatory, decadelong reduction of $1.2 trillion from defense and domestic programs that began earlier this year, will likely not be stopped entirely but could be slowed, the senators predicted. If no changes are made, the Pentagon is required to cut $52 billion over the next 11 months. The defense cuts are particularly worrisome for many in Hampton Roads, where the Navy has said it would have to scale back ship repairs and other contract work and curtail some military operations. Kaine… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=71b782a2-8b03-4cc1-8d0a-65537b3d001c | Warner, Kaine Call on Administration for Sustained CEO Leadership to Fix Healthcare.Gov | 2013-11-26 | 2013 | 2013-11 | Democrat | House | VA | Mark Warner | W000805 | www.warner.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. – As Americans continue to experience technical difficulties with federal and state health insurance enrollment, U.S. Senators Mark Warner and Tim Kaine joined a coalition of Senators in calling on President Obama to quickly appoint a long-term replacement for Jeffrey Zients, who is departing to become director of the National Economic Council on January 2, to oversee the technical repair of healthcare.gov. In a letter delivered to the Administration today, the Senators called on President Obama to appoint an individual who would report directly to the president and be “empowered with the authority to ensure that healthcare.gov is fixed quickly, completely, and permanently.” “While we cannot go backward and correct mistakes made, we must now work together to fix the law so that it works for all Americans,” the letter read. The Senators continued, “A project of this size and scope demands the sustained leadership and day-to-day management of a chief executive officer – someone whose sole responsibility would be an unrelenting focus on healthcare.gov and who has experience overseeing large and complex consumer-facing technology projects.” “Sustaining the steady management focus that this position has already brought to the project would go a long way toward earning back the trust jeopardized by last month’s deeply flawed rollout,” the Senators added. The full text of the Senators’ letter is below: November 25, 2013 President Barack Obama The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W. Washington, DC 20500 Dear Mr. President: As supporters of the Affordable Care Act, we have been deeply disappointed and frustrated with the many problems surrounding the law’s rollout, including the initial failure of the healthcare.gov website. These early missteps are all the more unfortunate because of the potential benefits of the Affordable Care Act. An effective implementation of this law would mean that millions of Americans would no longer be denied coverage because of pre-existing c… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-statement-on-nuclear-deal-with-iran | Kaine Statement on Nuclear Deal with Iran | 2013-11-24 | 2013 | 2013-11 | Democrat | House | VA | Tim Kaine | K000384 | www.kaine.senate.gov | legacy | Kaine Statement on Nuclear Deal with Iran Sunday, November 24, 2013 HALIFAX, NOVA SCOTIA – U.S. Senator Tim Kaine, Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on Near Eastern and South and Central Asian Affairs, released the following statement from the 2013 Halifax International Security Forum on the first step agreement reached on Iran’s nuclear program. Kaine is leading a U.S. Congressional delegation to the forum with Senator John McCain: “As we commemorate the 50th anniversary of President John F. Kennedy’s death, I recall his wise commencement speech delivered at American University in June of 1963. He spoke of the hard work of peace-making during the midst of disarmament talks with the Soviet Union. Many challenged the talks and whether there was any possibility of working toward peace with an enemy. But President Kennedy reminded us that ‘we can reduce tension without relaxing our guard’ and advocated the need for nations to take concrete steps along a path to total disarmament. “I look forward to reviewing the P5+1 (United States, United Kingdom, France, Russia, China + Germany) first stage deal with Iran in the coming days. We will not tolerate an Iran with nuclear weapons because that will make the region – and the world – dramatically less safe. If this interim deal reduces stockpiles of enriched uranium to levels appropriate only for civilian use, halts uranium enrichment above dangerous levels, reduces technology that can be used to enhance enrichment, and imposes intrusive daily inspections by the International Atomic Energy Agency that can give the world immediate warning if Iran plans to move toward nuclear weapons, it will be an important trust building step toward our ultimate goal. “This deal could bring us closer to a world less threatened by weapons of mass destruction. We should now press forward to do even more in pursuit of peace.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.kaine.senate.gov/tim-in-the-news/starting-strong-the-case-for-pre-k | Starting strong: The case for pre-K | 2013-11-23 | 2013 | 2013-11 | Democrat | House | VA | Tim Kaine | K000384 | www.kaine.senate.gov | legacy | Starting strong: The case for pre-K Virginian-Pilot Op-Ed Saturday, November 23, 2013 With our daughter now in college, my wife Anne and I have reached the end of our journey through Virginia public education. As a parent I have learned many lessons from my children's combined total of 40 years in public pre-K through 12 classrooms, and one of the most significant is the importance of early childhood education programs. Virginia started a modest early childhood education program after my two sons had already entered elementary school. My daughter, however, was just the right age to experience the program. And while my boys had a good experience with high-quality private child-care programs, the positive impact that a public, comprehensive pre-K year had on my daughter made me a true believer in the power of early childhood education. I don't have to look far outside my own home to see the other ways expanding early childhood education has made an impact. Virginia is a perfect example of how investments in education will ensure that we have a skilled workforce ready to compete in a global economy. As governor, I had to make tough decisions to invest in early childhood education programs while cutting nearly $6 billion in spending to balance the budget during a recession. Even in a time of tough cuts, I worked with legislators, educators and business leaders to expand the Virginia Preschool Initiative, improving the quality of pre-K programs and increasing the number of children they served by 40 percent. Last week, I was proud to join eight of my U.S. Senate colleagues in introducing legislation to expand access to high-quality early education programs for children all over the country. This legislation, the "Strong Start for America's Children Act," is a 10-year federal-state partnersh… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://connolly.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=666 | Congressman Connolly Named Tech Champion of the Year | 2013-11-22 | 2013 | 2013-11 | Democrat | House | VA | Gerald Connolly | C001078 | connolly.house.gov | legacy | Connolly was named "Tech Champion of the Year" Thursday night at an awards ceremony featuring leaders from the federal and private sector information technology community. Read more. share: f t Congressman Gerry Connolly (D-VA) received the Tech Champion of the Year award, presented by Fedscoop CEO Goldy KamaliCongressman Gerry Connolly was named “Tech Champion of the Year” Thursday night at an awards ceremony featuring leaders from the federal and private sector information technology community.Connolly (D-VA) was the sole recipient of Fedscoop’s Tech Champion award. The award recognized Connolly “as a leader whose passion for tech made us all think out of the box.” Connolly and winners of the Fedscoop 50 awards were selected by a voting process that involved members of the public and private sector IT community and the general public.As Congressman for Virginia’s 11th District, Connolly represents the heart of the technology community on the East Coast. He represents tens of thousands of federal IT contracting employees and federal workers who live in the district.As a senior member of the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee and ranking member of the Subcommittee on Government Operations, Connolly has been a leading voice on IT issues in Congress since taking office in 2009. His background working for two IT companies and his tenure as Chairman of the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors gave Connolly a unique understanding of federal IT issues which has helped him drive legislation in Congress on the issues impacting IT inside and outside the federal government.This year, Connolly and House Oversight Committee Chairman Darrell Issa (R-CA) coauthored a major federal IT reform bill – the Federal IT Acquisition Reform Act (FITARA) – which would overhaul federal IT procurement, increase transparency, efficiency, and management of federal IT, and save taxpayer dollars. The legislation has already passed the U.S. House of Representatives and… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/advisory-senators-john-mccain-and-tim-kaine-to-lead-us-delegation-to-the-halifax-international-security-forum | Advisory: Senators John McCain And Tim Kaine To Lead U.S. Delegation To The Halifax International Security Forum | 2013-11-22 | 2013 | 2013-11 | Democrat | House | VA | Tim Kaine | K000384 | www.kaine.senate.gov | legacy | Advisory: Senators John McCain And Tim Kaine To Lead U.S. Delegation To The Halifax International Security Forum Friday, November 22, 2013 WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators John McCain (R-AZ) and Tim Kaine (D-VA) will lead the U.S. Congressional delegation to the 2013 Halifax International Security Forum and hold a press conference at 4:00 p.m. AST tomorrow, Saturday, November 23, 2013. Other members of the delegation include Senator John Barrasso (R-WY), Senator Susan Collins (R-ME) and Congressman Adam Kinzinger (IL-16). Delegation members will also participate in Halifax Forum panel discussions. PRESS CONFERENCE – SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2013 WHO: U.S. Senator John McCain (R-AZ) U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA) U.S. Delegation Members WHAT: Press Conference WHEN: 4:00 p.m. AST – Saturday, November 23, 2013 WHERE: Halifax International Security Conference Harbour Room A The Westin Nova Scotian 1181 Hollis Street Halifax, NS B3H 2P6, Canada *Watch livestream of the press conference at http://www.halifaxtheforum.org. HALIFAX FORUM PANEL DISCUSSIONS – SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2013 WHO: Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA) WHAT: Panel Discussion: Bloody Autocracy, Religious Kleptocracy, Unstable Democracy: In Search of Better Choices for the Middle East (and Beyond) WHEN: 8:30 a.m. AST – Saturday, November 23, 2013 WHERE: Halifax International Security Conference The Westin Nova Scotian 1181 Hollis Street Halifax, NS B3H 2P6, Canada *Watch livestream of the panel at http://www.halifaxtheforum.org. WHO: Senator John McCain (R-AZ) WHAT: Panel Discussion: If Democracies Won't, Alternatives Will: Reviving Global Responsibility WHEN: 10:15 a.m. AST – Saturday, November 23, 2… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.kaine.senate.gov/tim-in-the-news/political-doubt-poses-risk-to-honduras-battered-by-coup-and-violence | Political Doubt Poses Risk to Honduras, Battered by Coup and Violence | 2013-11-22 | 2013 | 2013-11 | Democrat | House | VA | Tim Kaine | K000384 | www.kaine.senate.gov | legacy | Political Doubt Poses Risk to Honduras, Battered by Coup and Violence By: Elisabeth Malkin Friday, November 22, 2013 TEGUCIGALPA, Honduras — When police officers arrived last week after the murder of Felipe Nery Aguilar and his daughter Gladys, they seized on what appeared to be a clue: a childish scribble on a broken television set. A message from local gangs, the officers figured, demanding protection money, known here as a “war tax.” Case closed. But for the victims’ family, the explanation made no sense. A second daughter, Rosa Alba Aguilar, 35, agonized over why anybody would kill a 73-year-old fruit seller. “It was just pure evil,” Ms. Aguilar said. Nobody was extorting her father. It was one of his grandchildren who had scrawled over the television screen. “The police come here asking stupidities,” she said. “What are the laws for?” That question is at the center of elections on Sunday, when Hondurans will choose a new president four years after a coup expelled a previous one. The rule of law, which was never sturdy to start with, has all but evaporated since then. The coup upended the political landscape here, and the outcome of the vote in one of Latin America’s poorest and most unequal countries is unpredictable. Honduras’s fraying social fabric may not withstand a new bout of political uncertainty. Drug traffickers and street gangs act unimpeded as the National Police look the other way, or even run their own criminal rackets. Dozens of human rights activists, journalists, lawyers, and peasant and labor leaders have been killed. The country is believed to have the highest peacetime murder rate in the world. The combustible mix of drugs, gangs, arms and impunity has created a “very violent element” that will “kill an… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.kaine.senate.gov/tim-in-the-news/senators-introduce-bill-to-add-acreage-to-petersburg-national-battlefield | Senators introduce bill to add acreage to Petersburg National Battlefield | 2013-11-22 | 2013 | 2013-11 | Democrat | House | VA | Tim Kaine | K000384 | www.kaine.senate.gov | legacy | Senators introduce bill to add acreage to Petersburg National Battlefield By: Louis Llovio Friday, November 22, 2013 Virginia’s two U.S. senators are looking to secure more than 7,000 acres for the Petersburg National Battlefield, an addition that would make it the largest Civil War battlefield in the country. U.S. Sens. Timothy M. Kaine and Mark R. Warner, both Democrats, have introduced legislation that would allow the U.S. National Park Service to acquire the land. The bill would allow the secretary of the Interior to obtain the land “from willing sellers only, by donation, purchase with donated or appropriated funds, exchange or transfer.” The bill also allows for a small land transfer between Fort Lee and the battlefield. In 2011, Sen. Jim Webb, D-Va., and Rep. J. Randy Forbes, R-4th, introduced similar legislation that failed to gain traction. “This legislation will preserve the story of one of the Civil War’s most decisive engagements, the Siege of Petersburg, while aiding the local economy and boosting regional historic tourism,” Kaine said in a statement Wednesday. Warner noted that the battlefield “draws visitors from all across the country and adds $11 million annually into the Petersburg economy.” The park is currently about 2,500 acres. In 2005, the National Park Service recommended modifying the Petersburg National Battlefield to include 7,238 acres “of significant core battlefield land,” according to Warner’s office. That includes the site of 18 major battles during the Civil War that are in danger of being lost to development. “These sites are not currently protected within the National Battlefield and have been identified by the Civil War Trust as one of the most endangered group of historic battlefields in… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/joint-statement-by-us-sens-warner-and-kaine-on-the-sccs-finding-on-continuation-of-existing-health-policies | Joint Statement By U.S. Sens. Warner & Kaine On the SCC’s Finding On Continuation Of Existing Health Policies | 2013-11-21 | 2013 | 2013-11 | Democrat | House | VA | Tim Kaine | K000384 | www.kaine.senate.gov | legacy | Joint Statement By U.S. Sens. Warner & Kaine On the SCC’s Finding On Continuation Of Existing Health Policies Thursday, November 21, 2013 WASHINGTON – U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) and Tim Kaine (D-VA) released this statement following the announcement by the Virginia State Corporation Commission’s Bureau of Insurance approving renewal of existing health insurance plans in the individual and small business markets, allowing policyholders to continue existing coverage through the end of 2014. In a letter to the SCC last week, Sens. Warner and Kaine urged state regulators to take action to help those Virginians who had concerns about the loss of their existing health coverage: “This determination by the State Corporation Commission is welcome news to those Virginians who recently have seen their existing healthcare plans cancelled by insurance carriers,” Sens. Warner and Kaine said in a joint statement. “We strongly support the SCC’s decision encouraging insurers to provide the option of extending transitional coverage through the end of next year. This action will help smooth the transition to the new system. We appreciate the prompt analysis and decision by the Bureau of Insurance. We remain committed to working together to see that the implementation of the Affordable Care Act works more effectively for Virginia families, small businesses and employers." ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-joins-19-senators-in-bipartisan-effort-to-grant-temporary-protected-status-to-filipinos-in-wake-of-typhoon-haiyan | Kaine Joins 19 Senators In Bipartisan Effort To Grant Temporary Protected Status To Filipinos In Wake Of Typhoon Haiyan | 2013-11-21 | 2013 | 2013-11 | Democrat | House | VA | Tim Kaine | K000384 | www.kaine.senate.gov | legacy | Kaine Joins 19 Senators In Bipartisan Effort To Grant Temporary Protected Status To Filipinos In Wake Of Typhoon Haiyan Thursday, November 21, 2013 WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tim Kaine joined 19 of his Senate colleagues in calling on President Obama’s administration to grant Temporary Protected Status (TPS) to Filipino nationals currently residing in the United States and to consider additional avenues of relief for certain Filipinos with U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident family members in the U.S. TPS is granted to foreign nationals who cannot safely return to their native country. “Typhoon Haiyan has wrought unparalleled destruction and tragic loss of life in the Philippines,” the Senators wrote. “Victims of Typhoon Haiyan clearly meet the eligibility requirements for TPS, and we urge you to extend this designation as soon as possible. The United States has demonstrated its commitment to assisting the Philippines with the recovery effort through foreign aid, military assistance and relief supplies, but we must alsoassist the victims’ families in whatever way possible.” A complete copy of the letter is available here. The letter was also signed by Senators Robert Menendez (D–NJ), Patrick Leahy (D-VT), Orrin Hatch (R-UT), John McCain (R-AZ), Harry Reid (D-NV), Barbara Boxer (D-CA), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Mary Landrieu (D-LA), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Ben Cardin (D-MD), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY),Chris Coons (D-DL), Mark Kirk (R-IL), Marco Rubio (R-FL), Dean Heller (R-NV), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Ed Markey (D-MA), and Cory Booker (D-NJ). Currently, the United States grants Temporary Protected Status (TPS) to El Salvador, Haiti, Honduras, Nicaragua, Somalia, Sudan and South Sudan, and Syria. As the program is designed, TPS would only be available to Filipinos already living in the United States who pass a background check and meet related eligibility requirements. Below is the full letter. The Honorable Rand Beers Acting Secretary Departme… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-praises-passage-of-bipartisan-battlefield-protection-bill-out-of-committee | Kaine Praises Passage Of Bipartisan Battlefield Protection Bill Out Of Committee | 2013-11-21 | 2013 | 2013-11 | Democrat | House | VA | Tim Kaine | K000384 | www.kaine.senate.gov | legacy | Kaine Praises Passage Of Bipartisan Battlefield Protection Bill Out Of Committee Thursday, November 21, 2013 WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the American Battlefield Protection Program Amendments Act, a bill introduced by U.S. Senator Tim Kaine to preserve historical battlegrounds, was passed out of the Senate Energy & Natural Resources Committee on a voice vote. "Committee passage of this bipartisan bill is an important step toward preserving our nation's battlefields for future generations to enjoy," said Kaine. "This legislation will benefit Virginia and all states that are home to historic battlegrounds by boosting tourism, supporting local economies, and maintaining battlefields as living reminders of American history." In May, Kaine introduced the American Battlefield Protection Program Amendments Act with Senator Thad Cochran (R-MS), along with 13 other cosponsors – seven Democrats, five Republicans, and one independent. This legislation reauthorizes the National Park Service’s American Battlefield Protection Program, which offers competitive federal grants to match non-federal and private donations to preserve Civil War battlefields. The bill extends the program, which expired last month, for five more years at the current $10 million funding level and also makes Revolutionary War and War of 1812 sites eligible for these grants. Additionally, this week Kaine joined Senator Mark Warner to introduce a bill authorizing the expansion of Petersburg National Battlefield, making it the largest Civil War battlefield in the nation. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-statement-on-senate-rules-change-to-end-gridlock | Kaine Statement On Senate Rules Change To End Gridlock | 2013-11-21 | 2013 | 2013-11 | Democrat | House | VA | Tim Kaine | K000384 | www.kaine.senate.gov | legacy | Kaine Statement On Senate Rules Change To End Gridlock Thursday, November 21, 2013 WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tim Kaine released the following statement today after voting to ensure judicial nominees get an up-or-down vote on confirmation by eliminating the filibuster on all judicial nominations other than Supreme Court nominees: “Today I joined a majority of my Senate colleagues in taking an important step to ensure highly-qualified, non-controversial judicial nominees, including Virginia’s own Pattie Millett, are given the up-or-down vote they deserve. “What we have witnessed in the Senate in recent months is unprecedented. The only explanation for blocking the consideration of a nominee like Ms. Millett – a military spouse who has served under both Democratic and Republican Solicitor Generals, has argued more cases before the Supreme Court and circuit courts than all but a handful of attorneys and is uniformly praised by bar groups – is that Republicans have committed to pursuing a strategy of nullifying the law to achieve their goals. Their decision to block four highly-qualified nominees to the D.C. Circuit since I took office eleven months ago – three in the last three weeks alone – is proof that the goal was to nullify the law that says the D.C. Circuit has eleven judges. “Today’s rules change will end this unprecedented abuse of the filibuster and allow us to begin to break through the gridlock that has frustrated Virginians and prevented us from tackling so many important issues facing our country.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/sens-warner-collins-kaine-and-grassley-introduce-legislation-to-protect-military-whistleblowers | Sens. Warner, Collins, Kaine & Grassley Introduce Legislation To Protect Military Whistleblowers | 2013-11-21 | 2013 | 2013-11 | Democrat | House | VA | Tim Kaine | K000384 | www.kaine.senate.gov | legacy | Sens. Warner, Collins, Kaine & Grassley Introduce Legislation To Protect Military Whistleblowers Military Whistleblower Protection Act will ensure victims of sexual assault and other misconduct are protected from retaliation Thursday, November 21, 2013 WASHINGTON - U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner (D-VA), Susan Collins (R-ME), Tim Kaine (D-VA) and Chuck Grassley (R-IA) introduced proposals today to strengthen military whistleblower protection laws to ensure those who are courageous enough to report sexual assault and other misconduct are not further victimized by retaliation. The Military Whistleblower Protection Act is supported by over 50 good government, public health and veterans organizations, including the Service Women’s Action Network, the Project on Government Oversight and the Government Accountability Project. “I am proud to offer this bipartisan legislation to protect our military whistleblowers, who serve our country bravely and deserve our respect and protection,” Sen. Warner said. “Improving the military’s whistleblower system is an important step toward encouraging whistleblowers to report fraud, waste, and other misconduct, especially sexual assault. Our military men and women should trust that our justice system will protect them and provide an environment free of retaliation.” “Whistleblowers play a crucial role in Congressional efforts to prevent waste, fraud, and abuse and to help ensure the effectiveness of government programs. They provide crucial information that Congress needs to conduct proper oversight of the federal government,” said Sen. Collins. “This amendment increases whistleblower protections for the military and encourages whistleblowers to report misconduct, especially as it relates to sexual assault. Our military men and women deserve a justice system that protects them while they serve our country.” “To effectively combat sexual assault and other serious misconduct in the military, we must create an environment where whistl… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/state-department-diplomatic-security-training-needs-are-best-met-using-fort-pickett-facility- | State Department: Diplomatic Security Training Needs Are Best Met Using Fort Pickett Facility | 2013-11-21 | 2013 | 2013-11 | Democrat | House | VA | Tim Kaine | K000384 | www.kaine.senate.gov | legacy | State Department: Diplomatic Security Training Needs Are Best Met Using Fort Pickett Facility Thursday, November 21, 2013 Washington, D.C. – Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA) and Congressman J. Randy Forbes (VA-04) released a letter today from the U.S. Department of State detailing how Fort Pickett, Virginia remains the most suitable location for a Foreign Affairs Security Training Center (FASTC), which provides critical training for U.S. diplomatic personnel serving in high-risk environments abroad. In response to a November 5 letter from Senator Kaine and Congressman Forbes to Secretary of State John Kerry requesting a status update on the potential placement of a FASTC at Fort Pickett, the Department noted that the important missions conducted at a FASTC “are best addressed using the Fort Pickett location.” Furthermore, the State Department revised its original proposal and now estimates that the cost of locating a FASTC at Fort Pickett has been reduced to $461 million. “We are so pleased that the State Department continues to believe that Fort Pickett is the ideal location for its security training,” said Senator Kaine and Congressman Forbes. “As the 2012 tragedy in Benghazi and more recent threats to a number of U.S. embassies around the world have underscored, there are few missions more important than providing the men and women who represent our country abroad with the training they need to successfully promote U.S. interests and return home safely. A FASTC at Fort Pickett is well-suited to meet this need for years to come.” In 2008, the State Department informed Congress of the need for one consolidated training facility to improve efficiency, decrease operating costs, and provide diplomats and other personnel with necessary training before serving in some of the most high-threat, high-risk countries in the world. Studies to determine the best site for such a facility were conducted in 2011 and 2012 and Fort Pickett has consistently shown to be the ideal location for … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.kaine.senate.gov/tim-in-the-news/a-battlefield-bill-that-wasnt-a-battle-kaines-historic-site-bill-wins-committee-approval | A battlefield bill that wasn't a battle; Kaine's historic site bill wins committee approval | 2013-11-21 | 2013 | 2013-11 | Democrat | House | VA | Tim Kaine | K000384 | www.kaine.senate.gov | legacy | A battlefield bill that wasn't a battle; Kaine's historic site bill wins committee approval By: Dave Ress Thursday, November 21, 2013 Some Washington legislation that hasn’t been a battle? The Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee has given the nod – on a voice vote, no less – to Sen. Tim Kaine’s amendments to the American Battlefield Protection Program. Kaine’s bill will make Revolutionary War and War of 1812 sites eligible for the National Park Service program that has long focused on preserving Civil War battlefields. It extends the program for another five years, at the current $10 million funding level for federal grants to match state and private donations to purchase and preserve battlefields at risk of being lost to development. Kaine joined up with Sen Thad Cochran, R-Miss., to introduce the bill. Seven Democrats, five Republicans and one independent signed up as co-sponsors. Voice vote, sponsors from both sides (all three sides?) of the aisle. Hmm … almost sounds like a Revolutionary idea doesn’t it? Or as shocking as when the British burned Washington in the War of 1812? ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=9715abb8-2dc5-4197-bffa-fbfc175a8969 | Joint Statement by Sens. Warner & Kaine on SCC Finding on Transitional Health Coverage | 2013-11-21 | 2013 | 2013-11 | Democrat | House | VA | Mark Warner | W000805 | www.warner.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON – U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) and Tim Kaine (D-VA) released this statement following the announcement by the Virginia State Corporation Commission’s Bureau of Insurance approving renewal of existing health insurance plans in the individual and small business markets, allowing policyholders to continue existing coverage through the end of 2014. In a letter to the SCC last week, Sens. Warner and Kaine urged state regulators to take action to help those Virginians who had concerns about the loss of their existing health coverage: “This determination by the State Corporation Commission is welcome news to those Virginians who recently have seen their existing healthcare plans cancelled by insurance carriers,” Sens. Warner and Kaine said in a joint statement. “We strongly support the SCC’s decision encouraging insurers to provide the option of extending transitional coverage through the end of next year. This action will help smooth the transition to the new system. We appreciate the prompt analysis and decision by the Bureau of Insurance. We remain committed to working together to see that the implementation of the Affordable Care Act works more effectively for Virginia families, small businesses and employers." | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=a491c478-2640-493b-b6f9-cf01319841a1 | Sens. Warner, Collins, Kaine & Grassley Introduce Legislation to Protect Military Whistleblowers | 2013-11-21 | 2013 | 2013-11 | Democrat | House | VA | Mark Warner | W000805 | www.warner.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON - U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner (D-VA), Susan Collins (R-ME), Tim Kaine (D-VA) and Chuck Grassley (R-IA) introduced proposals today to strengthen military whistleblower protection laws to ensure those who are courageous enough to report sexual assault and other misconduct are not further victimized by retaliation. The Military Whistleblower Protection Act is supported by over 50 good government, public health and veterans organizations, including the Service Women’s Action Network, the Project on Government Oversight and the Government Accountability Project. “I am proud to offer this bipartisan legislation to protect our military whistleblowers, who serve our country bravely and deserve our respect and protection,” Sen. Warner said. “Improving the military’s whistleblower system is an important step toward encouraging whistleblowers to report fraud, waste, and other misconduct, especially sexual assault. Our military men and women should trust that our justice system will protect them and provide an environment free of retaliation.” “Whistleblowers play a crucial role in Congressional efforts to prevent waste, fraud, and abuse and to help ensure the effectiveness of government programs. They provide crucial information that Congress needs to conduct proper oversight of the federal government,” said Sen. Collins. “This amendment increases whistleblower protections for the military and encourages whistleblowers to report misconduct, especially as it relates to sexual assault. Our military men and women deserve a justice system that protects them while they serve our country.” “To effectively combat sexual assault and other serious misconduct in the military, we must create an environment where whistleblowers feel comfortable coming forward with a complaint,” said Sen. Kaine. “This legislation would work to increase reporting while protecting victims of sexual assault and other crimes from retaliation and would strengthen the Senate’s bipartisan efforts to tackle the serious and longstanding problem … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-introduces-bill-to-boost-tourism-at-national-parks-and-aid-local-economies | Kaine Introduces Bill To Boost Tourism At National Parks And Aid Local Economies | 2013-11-20 | 2013 | 2013-11 | Democrat | House | VA | Tim Kaine | K000384 | www.kaine.senate.gov | legacy | Kaine Introduces Bill To Boost Tourism At National Parks And Aid Local Economies Wednesday, November 20, 2013 WASHINGTON, D.C. —U.S. Senator Tim Kaine introduced the Entrance Fee Suspension Act of 2013 today to encourage tourism at national parks and wildlife refuges and bolster local economies that were harmed by the 16-day government shutdown. The bill will assist businesses like Captain Steve’s Bait and Tackle in Chincoteague and Carrot Tree Kitchens in Yorktown that lost revenue or were forced to close temporarily during the government shutdown because of national park closures. According to the National Parks Conservation Association, the shutdown cost local economies some $480 million in lost park visitor spending, or $30 million per day. Among affected sites in Virginia, the Blue Ridge Parkway missed out on an estimated 931,000 recreational visits and $22 million in visitor spending, while Shenandoah National Park missed out on 122,000 visits and $7.5 million in visitor spending. This legislation aims to partially compensate for this lost business activity by suspending entrance fees at national parks and wildlife refuges for 16 days, the duration of the government shutdown, to encourage more tourists to visit. The 16-day period would occur during National Park Week and several days prior, beginning April 10 and ending April 25, 2014. “The government shutdown had a disproportionately negative impact in Virginia, particularly in communities where tourism is a primary industry like Chincoteague, Yorktown, and the Shenandoah Valley," said Kaine. "The small businesses that rely on tourist revenue did not receive back pay for being caught in the middle of Washington budget battles. This bill is a small achievable way that Congress can help these communities regain some of the business that was lost during the government shutdown and encourage more Americans to visit our beautiful public lands.” In addition to providing ample time for businesses to advertise free entran… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/sens-warner-kaine-introduce-legislation-to-authorize-expansion-of-petersburg-national-battlefield | Sens. Warner, Kaine Introduce Legislation To Authorize Expansion Of Petersburg National Battlefield | 2013-11-20 | 2013 | 2013-11 | Democrat | House | VA | Tim Kaine | K000384 | www.kaine.senate.gov | legacy | Sens. Warner, Kaine Introduce Legislation To Authorize Expansion Of Petersburg National Battlefield Would create largest Civil War historic battlefield in the United States Wednesday, November 20, 2013 WASHINGTON – U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) and Tim Kaine (D-VA) introduced legislation that would authorize the National Park Service to acquire more than 7,000 acres to add to Petersburg National Battlefield. Purchase of the land would make the Petersburg National Battlefield the largest Civil War historic battlefield in the nation. The Petersburg National Battlefield Boundary Modification Act will not spend any money, only authorize the acquisition of land. The legislation also authorizes one small land transfer between Fort Lee and the battlefield. “I am pleased to introduce legislation with Senator Kaine to expand and protect the Petersburg National Battlefield, the site of the longest sustained siege in American military history,” Sen. Warner said. “This historic battlefield draws visitors from all across the country and adds $11 million annually into the Petersburg economy.” "This legislation will preserve the story of one of the Civil War’s most decisive engagements, the Siege of Petersburg, while aiding the local economy and boosting regional historic tourism," said Sen. Kaine. "I applaud my predecessor Senator Jim Webb for his years of leadership on this effort and I am determined to work with Senator Warner and Representatives Forbes and Scott to move this bill forward.” In 2005, The National Park Service recommended modifying the Petersburg National Battlefield to include 7,238 acres of significant core battlefield land. The land identified for inclusion was the site of 18 major battles during the Civil War and are in danger of being lost to development. These sites are not currently protected within the National Battlefield and have been identified by the Civil War Trust as one of the most endangered group of historic battlefields in the country. A… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=34f1f390-131d-43c2-9e2a-dd7406e6011b | Sens. Warner & Kaine Introduce Legislation to Authorize Petersburg Nat'l Battlefield Expansion | 2013-11-20 | 2013 | 2013-11 | Democrat | House | VA | Mark Warner | W000805 | www.warner.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON – U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) and Tim Kaine (D-VA) introduced legislation that would authorize the National Park Service to acquire more than 7,000 acres to add to Petersburg National Battlefield. Purchase of the land would make the Petersburg National Battlefield the largest Civil War historic battlefield in the nation. The Petersburg National Battlefield Boundary Modification Act will not spend any money, only authorize the acquisition of land. The legislation also authorizes one small land transfer between Fort Lee and the battlefield. “I am pleased to introduce legislation with Senator Kaine to expand and protect the Petersburg National Battlefield, the site of the longest sustained siege in American military history,” Sen. Warner said. “This historic battlefield draws visitors from all across the country and adds $11 million annually into the Petersburg economy.” "This legislation will preserve the story of one of the Civil War’s most decisive engagements, the Siege of Petersburg, while aiding the local economy and boosting regional historic tourism," said Sen. Kaine. "I applaud my predecessor Senator Jim Webb for his years of leadership on this effort and I am determined to work with Senator Warner and Representatives Forbes and Scott to move this bill forward.” In 2005, The National Park Service recommended modifying the Petersburg National Battlefield to include 7,238 acres of significant core battlefield land. The land identified for inclusion was the site of 18 major battles during the Civil War and are in danger of being lost to development. These sites are not currently protected within the National Battlefield and have been identified by the Civil War Trust as one of the most endangered group of historic battlefields in the country. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=a55eb6fa-26b4-4455-b82e-1f83a979154f | Senator Warner Engages Virginia Students on Immigration Reform | 2013-11-20 | 2013 | 2013-11 | Democrat | House | VA | Mark Warner | W000805 | www.warner.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON – U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) has released a lesson plan entitled “Speak Up for Immigration,” which encourages high school students across Virginia to develop more informed perspectives on immigration reform and participate in the democratic process. As part of the unit, students will write a policy brief to their local, state or federal elected officials on how to make improvements to our immigration system. Warner teamed up with the global lesson exchange platform, UClass, and the University of Virginia (UVA) class Educating for Global Citizenship to create the module. “As members of an increasingly global society, it is vitally important that students have platforms like UClass to share ideas not only with the person sitting next to them, but with individuals in other communities, cities, states and across the world,” said Sen. Warner. “This collaboration challenges our young people to think about tough questions on immigration reform. I am excited to hear from Virginia’s next generation of leaders through this lesson plan.” Charlottesville High School, which will serve as the flagship school for this lesson, currently has students affected by the outcomes of immigration reform. Tina Vasquez, CHS ELL teacher who co-developed the course, said, “About 10% of CHS students are born in another country. The Global Citizenship course provides an opportunity for refugee and immigrant students to draw upon their own experiences, cultures, and languages as a resource, to teach their American-born peers about global issues from a personal perspective.” Carol Anne Spreen, professor of UVA’s Educating for Global Citizenship class, said, “In the class we have a diverse group of twenty university students, as well as twenty high school immigrant, refugee and honor students working together... What could be a better way to inform and bring about policy change?” “This collaboration with Senator Warner and the forum on UClass is a meaningful way for students to express their thoughts on key issues, such as im… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-statement-on-guantanamo-bay-amendments-to-ndaa | Kaine Statement On Guantanamo Bay Amendments To NDAA | 2013-11-19 | 2013 | 2013-11 | Democrat | House | VA | Tim Kaine | K000384 | www.kaine.senate.gov | legacy | Kaine Statement On Guantanamo Bay Amendments To NDAA Tuesday, November 19, 2013 WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tim Kaine released the following statement today after voting on amendments to the 2014 National Defense Authorization Act regarding Guantanamo Bay. “Today I voted against an amendment to the defense bill that would have had the practical effect of keeping Guantanamo open indefinitely. After visiting the prison this summer, and after extensive discussion with our military leaders, I support common-sense provisions that allow the Administration flexibility in transferring detainees to other countries or imprisoning them in the United States, when it is in our national security interest to do so. That is why I supported the bipartisan amendment put forward by Senators Levin and McCain.” “The original reason for opening Guantanamo – that detainees would not be able to challenge their detention – was found unconstitutional five years ago. Guantanamo does not make us safer. Instead it is a symbol for terrorist recruitment. “Guantanamo is also expensive. During a time of budget constraints and uncertainty, we continue to spend almost $1 million per prisoner at Guantanamo. The Department of Defense estimates that we must spend another $200 million to keep the facility open. It is time for Congress to take critical steps forward in bringing detainees to justice, and providing a potential path to close Guantanamo in a responsible and safe way.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=a1e6cd62-c394-4afc-aae8-7104ac9ca8dc | Sen. Warner Statement on Sen. Creigh Deeds | 2013-11-19 | 2013 | 2013-11 | Democrat | House | VA | Mark Warner | W000805 | www.warner.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON - U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner released the following statement today: "This morning’s news from Bath County is just so heartbreaking. Senator Creigh Deeds has served his constituents and the Commonwealth with dedication and honor, and all of us are praying for him and his family at a tragic and very difficult time." | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.kaine.senate.gov/commonwealth-connection/from-norfolk-to-leyte | From Norfolk to Leyte | 2013-11-18 | 2013 | 2013-11 | Democrat | House | VA | Tim Kaine | K000384 | www.kaine.senate.gov | legacy | Monday, November 18, 2013 From Norfolk to Leyte by Joe Montano, Regional Director Watching the news of the relief efforts in the Philippines and hearing the stories from friends and family about the impact of Typhoon Yolanda/Haiyan, I feel a wide range of emotions. Sadness when I see the mounting number of casualties. Happiness when I heard that my cousin in Cebu escaped the storm. Hope when I see the world community’s outpouring of support. And there are moments of pride. I see the resilience of the people of the Philippines. I see the fundraising efforts spearheaded by local community organizations. And I see our country, the United States, sending help to an old friend and ally. The U.S.Navy is the reason I grew up in Norfolk. When my family moved to Virginia in 1970, it marked the second time my father was stationed there. Norfolk was his first duty station after joining the Navy in 1955 in the Philippines. The Filipino American community in Hampton Roads is among the biggest in the country, largely because of the Navy. Whenever relatives came to visit, the tour of Norfolk often began at the MacArthur Memorial, which features a painting based on the famous World War II photograph of General Douglas MacArthur and Philippine President Sergio Osmena during the landing on Leyte in 1944. Today, U.S. Navy ships have returned to Leyte – where the typhoon first hit shore – to assist with relief efforts across the country. Senator Kaine and our entire staff across the Commonwealth are committed to supporting Virginians whose families have been impacted by the typhoon. There is an immediate need for basic food, water and shelter. More information on ways to help can be found at: http://www.cidi.org/disaster-responses/super-typhoon-haiyanyolanda/ http://www.whitehouse.gov/typhoon Additional resources are available to help locate family members and loved ones: American Citizens Service… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-praises-passage-of-compounding-pharmacies-bill-to-prevent-future-outbreaks | Kaine Praises Passage Of Compounding Pharmacies Bill To Prevent Future Outbreaks | 2013-11-18 | 2013 | 2013-11 | Democrat | House | VA | Tim Kaine | K000384 | www.kaine.senate.gov | legacy | Kaine Praises Passage Of Compounding Pharmacies Bill To Prevent Future Outbreaks Monday, November 18, 2013 WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tim Kaine released the following statement today after final passage of the Drug Quality and Security Act, a bill to address the issue of quality of compounded drugs and the security of our nation’s drug supply chain: “I’m pleased that a strong, bipartisan majority of the Senate came together today to pass this commonsense legislation that could prevent another outbreak like the one that took the lives of five Virginians and sickened dozens more last year. The Drug Quality and Security Act will accomplish much-needed reforms that will help protect American families by establishing uniform standards for prescription drug compounders and increasing oversight of our drug supply chain.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=b3348f53-ef28-4789-82da-aeb3118283d8 | Sens. Warner & Merkley to Co-Chair Hearing on Virtual Currencies | 2013-11-18 | 2013 | 2013-11 | Democrat | House | VA | Mark Warner | W000805 | www.warner.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON – On Tuesday, November 19, Sens. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) and Jeff Merkley (D-OR) will co-chair a hearing of the Senate Banking Committee that will explore the development of virtual currencies, their current and potential future use, and the regulatory, monetary, and national security impacts and issues associated with them. As chairman of the National Security and International Trade and Finance Subcommittee, Sen. Warner will co-chair the hearing entitled “The Present and Future Impact of Virtual Currency,” with Sen. Jeff Merkley (D-OR), chairman of the Economic Policy Subcommittee. Sens. Warner and Merkley will hear from witnesses including Jennifer Shasky Calvery, Director, Financial Crimes Enforcement Network; David Cotney, Commissioner of Banks, Massachusetts Division of Banks; Anthony Gallippi, Co-founder and CEO, BitPay, Incorporated; Mercedes Kelley Tunstall, Partner, Ballard Spahr LLP; Sarah Jane Hughes, University Scholar and Fellow in Commercial Law, Indiana University Maurer School of Law; and Paul Smocer, BITS President, Financial Services Roundtable. WHEN: November 19, 2013 3:30 pm WHERE: Dirksen Senate Office Building Room 538 A livestream of the hearing and testimony will be available at http://www.banking.senate.gov/ | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=e321b116-44a2-4ece-99b4-ce5a4f83487c | Sen. Warner Applauds House Passage of DATA Act | 2013-11-18 | 2013 | 2013-11 | Democrat | House | VA | Mark Warner | W000805 | www.warner.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON – U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) released the following statement today applauding House passage of the Digital Accountability and Transparency Act (DATA): “Transparency is critical to our democracy – especially for a federal government that spends more than $3.7 trillion each year,” Sen. Warner said. “And in this tough economic climate, we should be doing all we can to ensure that taxpayers and policymakers can follow the money to hold our government more accountable. “I want to thank Chairman Darrell Issa and Ranking Member Elijah Cummings for their work on DATA. I’ll continue working with my colleagues in the Senate to pass this bipartisan legislation as soon as possible.” The House passed DATA by a vote of 388-1 today. The Senate Homeland Security and Government Accountability recently passed DATA unanimously. The legislation will now move to the full Senate for consideration. Sen. Warner, chairman of the Budget Committee’s bipartisan Government Performance Task Force, has worked consistently to protect taxpayers by demanding greater efficiency and better performance from federal agencies and programs. Sen. Warner was a lead sponsor of the 2010 Government Performance and Modernization Act, which is now law and requires federal agencies to annually report on their highest and lowest performing programs. Sen. Warner also has been a leading voice on Capitol Hill for the reform or elimination of federal programs that overlap or are ineffective. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://connolly.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=665 | Connolly Statement on H.R. 3350 | 2013-11-15 | 2013 | 2013-11 | Democrat | House | VA | Gerald Connolly | C001078 | connolly.house.gov | legacy | Congressman Connolly issued the following statement on H.R. 3350. Read more. share: f t Today the House considered a bill introduced by Rep. Fred Upton deceptively titled the “Keep Your Health Plan Act of 2013.” The bill actually does nothing to address the situation in which some individuals have had their coverage canceled by their insurance provider. Rather this bill would allow insurance companies to continue selling substandard insurance plans to anyone, even those who currently do not have any insurance, on the open market without the new benefits or protections of the Affordable Care Act (ACA). In contrast, President Obama has put forth a reasonable solution that extends the grandfathering provision of the law. Under that provision, insurance plans in place on March 23, 2010, the date the ACA was signed into law, are considered grandfathered. At issue now are those plans issued since then that do not meet the minimum standards of the ACA. This week, the President announced an extension of the grandfathering provisions that will empower insurance companies and state commissioners of insurance to allow those older plans to continue to be offered for one more year. If the insurance companies decide to continue offering those plans, they must notify all individuals who have received a cancellation notice and anyone else at risk of receiving one to inform them of their right to continue their previous coverage so long as the insurer discloses what benefits and protections – such as caps on premiums and out-of-pocket expenses, free preventive care, or guaranteed coverage for pre-existing conditions -- will not be provided. They also have to inform these individuals of their right to pursue new coverage that does include the wide range of consumer protections and reforms through the health insurance exchanges. The reason I voted for and continue to support the ACA is precisely because of those consumer and patient protection reforms. We cannot allow Ame… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-and-warner-urge-virginia-insurance-commissioner-to-allow-renewal-of-canceled-health-care-plans | Kaine & Warner Urge Virginia Insurance Commissioner To Allow Renewal Of Canceled Health Care Plans | 2013-11-15 | 2013 | 2013-11 | Democrat | House | VA | Tim Kaine | K000384 | www.kaine.senate.gov | legacy | Kaine & Warner Urge Virginia Insurance Commissioner To Allow Renewal Of Canceled Health Care Plans Friday, November 15, 2013 WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Tim Kaine and Mark Warner sent a letter to Virginia Insurance Commissioner Jacqueline Cunningham urging her to allow plans that had been canceled under the Affordable Care Act to be renewed for another year, giving Virginians more time to make the best health care choices for their families. Full text of the letter is below: November 15, 2013 Jacqueline K. Cunningham Commissioner of Insurance Commonwealth of Virginia Bureau of Insurance P.O. Box 1157 Richmond, VA 23218-1157 Dear Commissioner Cunningham, Many of our constituents have contacted our offices regarding their concern over cancellations of individual or small group plans due to provisions in the Affordable Care Act that are set to take effect January 1, 2014. While the availability of new insurance coverage that includes important consumer protections and premium subsidies are available through Virginia’s Federally Facilitated Marketplace starting January 1, some of these consumers may be unlikely to purchase new coverage for next year on the Marketplace and would like to keep their current plans. Yesterday, you received a letter from Gary Cohen, Director for Consumer Information and Insurance Oversight at the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid, regarding a new transitional policy for insurance coverage that had been terminated or cancelled due to provisions in the Affordable Care Act. The letter states that “health insurance coverage in the individual or small group market that is renewed for a policy year starting January 1, 2014 and October 1, 2014, and associated group health plans of small businesses will not be considered out of complicate with the market reforms.” This policy would apply only with respect to individual and small businesses with coverage that was in effect on October 1, 2013. Additionally, insurance compani… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=c2435fd1-1122-40db-aaa9-bbf4d9824bbe | Sens. Warner, Blunt Introduce Legislation to Reduce Underutilized Federal Property | 2013-11-15 | 2013 | 2013-11 | Democrat | House | VA | Mark Warner | W000805 | www.warner.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON -- U.S. Sens. Mark Warner (D-VA) and Roy Blunt (R- MO) introduced legislation to reduce the number of underutilized and excess federal properties and could save taxpayers $9 billion over the next 10 years. Sens. Lindsay Graham (R-SC), Dean Heller (R-NV), Mark Kirk (R-IL), Rob Portman (R-OH), and Roger Wicker (R-MS) are also original cosponsors of the Civlian Property Realignment Act (CPRA). Rep. Jeff Denham (R-CA-10) introduced companion CPRA legislation in the House earlier this year. "This proposal will require us to carefully review our federal real estate holdings and look for opportunities to downsize," Sen. Warner said. "By taking a businesslike approach to our current inventory, and aggressively looking for ways to consolidate and dispose of unneeded real property, we can sell properties we no longer need, and save taxpayer money by reducing maintenance and operations costs for years to come." “With limited resources, the federal government needs to explore opportunities for cost savings,” Sen. Blunt said. “This bipartisan legislation seizes on the opportunity to save billions of taxpayer dollars over the next decade by simply consolidating and maximizing the footprint and use of federal buildings and facilities.” The federal government is the largest property owner and manager in the U.S., with more than one million buildings, structures, and land parcels. Real property management has been on the Government Accountability Office’s (GAO) high-risk list since 2003, and GAO has estimated that the federal government could save billions through improvements. CPRA establishes an independent Commission, comprised of real estate management experts, charged with reviewing the federal property portfolio and developing recommendations for consolidation or disposal. The Commission will issue a report recommending individual leased or government owned properties that should be consolidated or disposed to produce the best value for the taxpayer. Upon approval by the President, the recommendations will be … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-and-chambliss-introduce-the-serve-act-of-2013 | Kaine And Chambliss Introduce The Serve Act Of 2013 | 2013-11-14 | 2013 | 2013-11 | Democrat | House | VA | Tim Kaine | K000384 | www.kaine.senate.gov | legacy | Kaine And Chambliss Introduce The Serve Act Of 2013 Bipartisan legislation will improve quality of educational programs for servicemembers and veterans Thursday, November 14, 2013 WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA) and Saxby Chambliss (R-GA), members of the Senate Armed Services Committee, introduced the Servicemember Education Reform and Vocational Enhancement (SERVE) Act of 2013, a bill to improve the quality of educational programs for servicemembers and veterans and help them transition into the civilian workforce. The SERVE Act will raise minimum standards for programs that accept educational benefits from the Veterans Administration (VA) and the Department of Defense (DoD) to make them consistent with educational standards currently required for other federal programs, such as Pell Grants and other types of federal financial aid, ensuring all veterans receiving benefits through the GI bill and Tuition Assistance obtain a high-quality education. The legislation also establishes a new pilot program to facilitate the use of veterans' benefits for employment or on-the-job training programs and provides academic or employment counseling throughout the process to enable servicemembers the opportunity to be employed more quickly and at a lower cost. “I’m proud to introduce the SERVE Act with Senator Chambliss, just six months after we introduced the Troop Talent Act. It’s important we do everything we can to improve the quality of life for our servicemembers as they transition from active duty service” said Kaine. “This bill will elevate the standards for educational programs that receive funding from the VA and DoD, empower our nation’s veterans with increased access to high-quality education and job training, and equip them with the academic counseling, knowledge and skills to ease their transition back into civilian life.” Over the Veterans Day weekend, Kaine traveled to Winchester, Richmond and Williamsburg to discuss the SERVE Act along … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=8627b0e2-cdd5-4fba-baa0-35cc2cd6f6bf | Sen. Warner Leads Bipartisan Group in Introducing Infrastructure Legislation | 2013-11-14 | 2013 | 2013-11 | Democrat | House | VA | Mark Warner | W000805 | www.warner.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON – U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) led a bipartisan coalition of ten Senators today in introducing legislation to establish a new infrastructure financing authority to help states and localities better leverage private funds to build and maintain the nation’s outdated infrastructure. The Building and Renewing Infrastructure for Development and Growth in Employment Act, or BRIDGE Act, helps to address the nation’s alarming investment shortfall in maintaining and improving our transportation network, water and wastewater systems and energy infrastructure. The legislation would provide an additional financing tool for states and localities which can create new jobs here at home while also increasing our nation’s economic competitiveness. “The BRIDGE Act is not a ‘silver bullet’ to magically close America’s infrastructure gap, but this bipartisan proposal creates smart new tools to help our states and localities unlock billions of dollars in additional private investments at a time of very favorable interest rates,” Sen. Warner said. “The BRIDGE Act will not only put Virginians and Americans back to work but also help to expand U.S. commerce and trade, keeping American businesses competitive and creating even more jobs here at home. The BRIDGE Act demonstrates our willingness to work together in a responsible, bipartisan way to get moving on important investment priorities.” The BRIDGE Act, introduced by lead sponsors Sens. Warner and Roy Blunt (R-MO), is cosponsored by Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Dean Heller (R-NV), Chris Coons (D-DE), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Roger Wicker (R-MS), Claire McCaskill (D-MO) and Mark Kirk (R-IL). The legislation has been endorsed by a wide variety of stakeholders and industry groups, including the Transportation Construction Coalition, American Association of Port Authorities, American Trucking Association, American Society of Civil Engineers, and the Bipartisan Policy Center. A full list of groups endorsing the BRIDGE Act is available here. “Infrastru… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/in-letter-to-secretary-kerry-kaine-calls-for-free-and-fair-elections-in-honduras | In Letter To Secretary Kerry, Kaine Calls For Free And Fair Elections In Honduras | 2013-11-13 | 2013 | 2013-11 | Democrat | House | VA | Tim Kaine | K000384 | www.kaine.senate.gov | legacy | In Letter To Secretary Kerry, Kaine Calls For Free And Fair Elections In Honduras Wednesday, November 13, 2013 WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Tim Kaine, a member of the Foreign Relations Committee, and a dozen fellow senators sent a letter today to Secretary of State John Kerry calling for all possible efforts to ensure free, fair and peaceful elections in Honduras. “I’m very concerned by the ongoing violence in Honduras and the impact on the November 24 elections,“ said Kaine, who served as a missionary in Honduras in 1980. “We are receiving reports of threats against journalists and even assassinations of candidates.” Emphasizing that the United States has no preferred outcome other than clean elections that win the confidence of the Honduran people, Kaine said, “only a legitimate Honduran government can work to stem the systemic violence, end criminal impunity, and create opportunities for Honduran youth.” The letter calls for: unrestricted access to electoral facilities by Honduran and international observers; strict neutrality on the part of the Honduran military; and compliance with an agreed code of conduct that provides legal channels for resolving any electoral disputes. Joining Kaine on the letter are Senators Tom Udall, Jeff Merkley, Barbara Mikulski, Benjamin Cardin, Barbara Boxer, Jeanne Shaheen, Martin Heinrich, Elizabeth Warren, Mark Udall, Jack Reed, Sheldon Whitehouse and Chris Murphy. Full text is below: November 13, 2013 The Honorable John Kerry Secretary of State U.S. Department of State 2201 C Street NW Washington, D.C. 20520 Dear Secretary Kerry: We write to express support for free and fair national and municipal elections in Honduras on November 24, 2013. The elections, which will be monitored by numerous domestic and international observers, are important for the future stability of Honduras and the region. The State Department and the U.S. Embassy in Honduras should make it clear that the United States, along with the Orga… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-introduces-bill-to-expand-access-to-high-quality-early-education-programs | Kaine Introduces Bill To Expand Access To High-Quality Early Education Programs | 2013-11-13 | 2013 | 2013-11 | Democrat | House | VA | Tim Kaine | K000384 | www.kaine.senate.gov | legacy | Kaine Introduces Bill To Expand Access To High-Quality Early Education Programs Wednesday, November 13, 2013 WASHINGTON, D.C.— Today, U.S. Senator Kaine joined eight of his Senate colleagues to introduce the Strong Start for America’s Children Act, legislation to expand access to high-quality early learning programs for children from birth to age five. Kaine has long-championed early childhood education, having worked with members of both parties as Governor to develop stronger Pre-K programs across Virginia and increase enrollment by 40 percent. Building on the framework put forward by President Obama in his 2013 State of the Union address, the bill would focus on four key goals: boosting funding for high-quality preschool programs serving low- and moderate-income families; increasing the quality of infant and toddler care offered by providers; supporting broad-scale quality improvements to child care programs; and encouraging continued support for the Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting (MIECHV) program. "I have always been a believer that investing in early childhood education will pay huge dividends for our children and for our nation as a whole," said Kaine. "As Governor, I expanded the number of kids served by quality Pre-K programs by 40 percent and I am proud to join my colleagues today in strong support of a bill that will expand early childhood education access for children across the country. It is imperative that we continue to make investments in programs that help close the achievement gap between children of all backgrounds. Ninety percent of brain development occurs before a child’s fifth birthday, and we know that by instilling an early joy and respect for learning, we can maximize the potential of every child in our nation." The early childhood education proposal is a 10-year initiative to expand and improve early learning opportunities for children across the birth to age 5 continuum. The bill would fund preschool for 4-year old childr… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=0b22acc7-126f-4de6-858b-d296fed14e33 | Sen. Warner to Host Virginia Science Summit at National Academy of Sciences | 2013-11-13 | 2013 | 2013-11 | Democrat | House | VA | Mark Warner | W000805 | www.warner.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON – U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-Va.) will bring together a cross-section of Virginia’s most talented leaders in the sciences this Friday as host of the inaugural Virginia Summit on Science, Engineering and Medicine. This first-ever summit will focus on fostering collaboration between Virginia’s members of the National Academies, with a goal of advancing science, engineering and medical research in the Commonwealth. Participants include representatives from Virginia Tech, the University of Virginia, Virginia Commonwealth University, and George Mason University; health care organizations including the Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Carilion Health System and UVa School of Medicine; government agencies including NASA Langley, the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), Naval Research Academy and National Science Foundation; and private sector partners including Orbital Sciences, Lockheed Martin and GE Aviation. Each participant is also encouraged to bring a protégé, to help engage the next generation of the Commonwealth’s leaders in the sciences. “I hope this summit helps to unleash the incredible potential of sciences to boost innovation, investment and jobs in the Commonwealth,” Sen. Warner said. “With the current budget constraints on research and development, it’s more important than ever to foster collaboration between our leaders in the sciences, as well as connect them with Virginia’s business community.” The Summit will feature a keynote address by world renowned author and scientist Dr. Mildred Dresselhaus. Dr. Dresselhaus is an Institute Professor at MIT in the departments of Electrical Engineering and Physics, and has received numerous awards, including the National Medal of Science, the Fermi Award, the Kavli Award, and 30 honorary doctorates worldwide. Dr. Dresselhaus is the co-author of six books on carbon science and is particularly well known for her work on carbon nanotubes and other nanostructural systems. Other speakers will include Dr. Francis Collins, Director of the… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-statement-on-filibuster-of-nina-pillards-nomination-to-the-dc-circuit | Kaine Statement On Filibuster Of Nina Pillard’s Nomination To The D.C. Circuit | 2013-11-12 | 2013 | 2013-11 | Democrat | House | VA | Tim Kaine | K000384 | www.kaine.senate.gov | legacy | Kaine Statement On Filibuster Of Nina Pillard’s Nomination To The D.C. Circuit Tuesday, November 12, 2013 WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tim Kaine released the following statement after a minority in the Senate blocked the nomination of Nina Pillard to serve on the United States Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit: “I’m disappointed Senate Republicans have chosen to block the nomination of another highly-qualified nominee to the D.C. Circuit. Nina Pillard is an accomplished litigator who has practiced law at every level of the legal system across the country. She successfully argued the Supreme Court case that opened the Virginia Military Institute to women – a historic decision that has served Virginia well, even turning a one-time adversary in that case, then-VMI Superintendent Josiah ‘Cy’ Bunting III, into a strong supporter of her nomination. “The filibuster of Ms. Pillard’s nomination again raises the question – is there a double standard against women nominees to the D.C. Circuit? Since I took office eleven months ago, three superbly-qualified women nominees, including Ms. Pillard, Patricia Millett and Caitlin Halligan, have been filibustered under the pretext that the court does not have a large enough workload. During the same period, an equally qualified male nominee, Sri Srinivasan, was confirmed 93-0 without a single mention of the workload issue from my Republican colleagues. “I’m very concerned that women nominees to the D.C. Circuit – the second-highest court in the land– are being blocked over concerns about workload that are not being applied in an evenhanded way. If senators have concerns about their qualifications, let’s have that debate. But we shouldn’t allow these candidates to be blocked from consideration based on reasons that don’t stand the light of day.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.kaine.senate.gov/tim-in-the-news/sen-tim-kaine-cw-president-colin-campbell-address-veterans-day-crowd | Sen. Tim Kaine, CW President Colin Campbell Address Veterans Day Crowd | 2013-11-12 | 2013 | 2013-11 | Democrat | House | VA | Tim Kaine | K000384 | www.kaine.senate.gov | legacy | Sen. Tim Kaine, CW President Colin Campbell Address Veterans Day Crowd By: Gregory Connolly Tuesday, November 12, 2013 U.S. Sen. Tim Kaine (D-Va.) joined Colonial Williamsburg President Colin Campbell and scores of veterans in Colonial Williamsburg on Monday for a ceremony commemorating service members. Kaine and Campbell both addressed a large crowd behind the courthouse in Market Square, with their remarks bookended by performances from the Colonial Williamsburg Fifes and Drums. Kaine, who was the first person to be sworn in as Virginia’s governor in Williamsburg since Thomas Jefferson, talked about Virginia’s prominent role in America’s military history. “The map of our military history is a map of Virginia,” Kaine said, alluding to battles from the Revolutionary War up to the 9/11 attack on the Pentagon. He had the crowd raise their hands if they were service members, Department of Defense contractors, members of a military reserve corps or family members of those in uniform. By the time each group had been called, many of the hands in the crowd were in the air. Kaine, who has a son in the U.S. Marine Corps, wished that branch of the military a happy birthday. Campbell praised the veterans in the crowd, thanking them for the “willingness of citizens to put themselves in harm’s way for the cause of the nation and the spirit it represents.” Before their remarks, local veterans groups marched with the Colonial Williamsburg Fifes and Drums down Duke of Gloucester Street until they arrived at the courthouse. Kaine and Campbell spoke on a stage in a large grassy area roped off from everyone besides veterans, who stood there as onlookers listened to the speeches and clapped for them. Gen. George Washington, played by a Colonial Wi… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://connolly.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=664 | Connolly to Hold Health Plan Open Season Workshop for Federal Employees/Retirees on Saturday, Nov. 23 in Fairfax | 2013-11-08 | 2013 | 2013-11 | Democrat | House | VA | Gerald Connolly | C001078 | connolly.house.gov | legacy | Rep. Connolly will hold his annual Open Season Workshop to assist federal employees & retirees navigate the changes in the 2014 Federal Employees Health Benefits Plans (FEHBP), dental and vision programs, and flexible spending accounts. Read more. share: f t Congressman Gerry Connolly will hold his annual Open Season Workshop on November 23, 2013 at the Fairfax County Government Center to assist federal employees and retirees in navigating through the many changes in the 2014 Federal Employees Health Benefits Plans (FEHBP), dental and vision insurance programs, and flexible spending accounts. The federal government’s Open Season for federal employees and retirees to change their health plans runs from November 11 to December 9.Connolly’s Open Season Workshop will take place at the Fairfax County Government Center on Saturday, November 23, 2013 from 10:00 am – 1:00 pm. The Government Center is located at 12000 Government Center Parkway, Fairfax, VA 22035. This year’s event will once again feature FEHBP expert Walt Francis, author of CHECKBOOKS’s Guide to Health Plans for Federal Employees, along with presentations by other FEHB experts. Representatives of the Office of Personnel Management, the various FEHB plans and Medicare will be available to answer questions discuss their programs with participants.“Most FEHB plans have benefit and rate changes for 2014 so it is important that federal employees and retirees know the details on how their current plans are changing and whether or not there is another option that better suits their needs,” Connolly said. “With these possible changes, it is important that every federal employee and retiree review the status of their current coverage.” Connolly urged every federal employee and retiree, as well as survivor and former spouse annuitants to make sure they review their FEHB plan coverage and other benefits before Open Season ends on December9. “Federal employees, retirees, and annuitants who have que… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.kaine.senate.gov/kaine-to-announce-bill-to-improve-veterans-education | Kaine to Announce Bill to Improve Veterans' Education | 2013-11-08 | 2013 | 2013-11 | Democrat | House | VA | Tim Kaine | K000384 | www.kaine.senate.gov | legacy | Kaine to Announce Bill to Improve Veterans' Education The SERVE Act Will Raise Standards for Educational Institutions, Facilitate the Use of Veterans’ Benefits for Training and Apprenticeships Friday, November 8, 2013 WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tim Kaine will announce the Servicemember Education Reform and Vocational Enhancement (SERVE) Act of 2013 at veterans events in Winchester and Richmond today. The SERVE Act, which is a companion to Kaine’s first bill, the Troop Talent Act, will improve the quality of education received by servicemembers and veterans. The legislation will also create pilot programs to facilitate the use of veterans’ education benefits for employment and on-the-job training programs and will require that institutions accepting Veterans Administration (VA) and Department of Defense (DoD) education benefits provide access to academic or career counseling. “I’m proud to introduce a second piece of legislation that seeks to help veterans transition to the civilian workforce,” said Kaine. “Access to high-quality education and job training is the best tool we can provide to our nation’s veterans as they return home and transition into civilian life. This bill increases minimum standards for programs and institutions accepting VA and DoD education benefits to be consistent with other types of federal tuition assistance, including Pell Grants, Stafford Loans and Perkins Loans. A companion to my first bill, the Troop Talent Act, this bill will also facilitate the use of educational benefits for apprenticeships, vocational, and on-the-job training programs which often get veterans employed faster and at a lower cost.” The SERVE Act of 2013 will: Require institutions accepting VA or DoD educational benefits to meet minimum standards by ensuring consistency between federal agencies. Raising the bar on minimum standards that educational institutions must meet ensures servicemembers are getting a quality education. Improve transparency of educati… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.kaine.senate.gov/tim-in-the-news/vas-kaine-proposes-improved-education-for-vets | Va.'s Kaine proposes improved education for vets | 2013-11-08 | 2013 | 2013-11 | Democrat | House | VA | Tim Kaine | K000384 | www.kaine.senate.gov | legacy | Va.'s Kaine proposes improved education for vets By: Steve Szkotak Friday, November 8, 2013 U.S. Sen. Tim Kaine has proposed legislation to improve the quality and accountability of education and training for veterans and members of the military. Kaine, a Democrat and former governor of Virginia, outlined the legislation Friday at a veterans' breakfast in Winchester and at another stop at the University of Richmond. The Servicemember Education Reform and Vocational Enhancement Act, or SERVE, is intended to address high unemployment and low graduation rates for veterans and active military who served in Afghanistan and Iraq, despite $30 billion invested in GI Bill benefits since 9/11. "Access to high-quality education and job training is the best tool we can provide to our nation's veterans as they return home and transition into civilian life," Kaine said in a statement. SERVE increases minimum standards for programs accepting education benefits from the departments of Veterans Affairs and Defense, so they are consistent with standards that apply for Pell Grants, among others. Among its provisions, SERVE would: — Raise the bar on minimum standards that educational institutions must meet to ensure military personnel and veterans are getting a quality education. — Require that institutions educating or training veterans or active military to provide access to academic or career counseling, to prepare them for future careers. — Provide better oversight, such as tracking complaints, to ensure the greatest return on investment in the federal programs. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://connolly.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=662 | Connolly Receives Military Appreciation Award from NVCC | 2013-11-07 | 2013 | 2013-11 | Democrat | House | VA | Gerald Connolly | C001078 | connolly.house.gov | legacy | Connolly Receives Military Appreciation Award from NVCC f t # e Washington, DC, November 7, 2013 Congressman Gerry Connolly was recognized by Northern Virginia Community College for his work to help returning war veterans further their education and achieve skills to negotiate life in the civilian workforce. Read more. share: f t WOODBRIDGE, Va. – Congressman Gerry Connolly was recognized by Northern Virginia Community College for his work to help returning war veterans further their education and achieve skills to negotiate life in the civilian workforce. Connolly received the appreciation award Wednesday at a ceremony at NVCC’s Woodbridge campus.College Provost Dr. Sam Hill presented the award to Connolly during the school’s Annual Military Appreciation Day. Hill praised Connolly’s advocacy on behalf of students who are veterans. Veterans account for about 10 percent of NVCC’s student body. NVCC is one of the largest community college systems in the nation and is recognized as one of the best.“Our nation has a sacred trust with our veterans, our service members, and their families,” Connolly said. “They have sacrificed for us and our nation. We must ensure that the services we promised to them are available to them, and education ranks near the top of the needs of our returning military.”Congressman Connolly’s district offices in Annandale and Woodbridge handle many cases involving veterans and military families in Virginia’s 11th District who are seeking information and guidance or are having difficulties securing services or benefits from the federal government. f t # e | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://connolly.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=663 | Connolly Receives Military Appreciation Award from NVCC | 2013-11-07 | 2013 | 2013-11 | Democrat | House | VA | Gerald Connolly | C001078 | connolly.house.gov | legacy | Connolly Receives Military Appreciation Award from NVCC f t # e Washington, DC, November 7, 2013 Congressman Gerry Connolly was recognized by Northern Virginia Community College for his work to help returning war veterans further their education and achieve skills to negotiate life in the civilian workforce. Read more. share: f t WOODBRIDGE, Va. – Congressman Gerry Connolly was recognized by Northern Virginia Community College for his work to help returning war veterans further their education and achieve skills to negotiate life in the civilian workforce. Connolly received the appreciation award Wednesday at a ceremony at NVCC’s Woodbridge campus.College Provost Dr. Sam Hill presented the award to Connolly during the school’s Annual Military Appreciation Day. Hill praised Connolly’s advocacy on behalf of students who are veterans. Veterans account for more than 10 percent of NVCC’s student body. NVCC is one of the largest community college systems in the nation and is recognized as one of the best.“Our nation has a sacred trust with our veterans, our service members, and their families,” Connolly said. “They have sacrificed for us and our nation. We must ensure that the services we promised to them are available to them, and education ranks near the top of the needs of our returning military.”Congressman Connolly’s district offices in Annandale and Woodbridge handle many cases involving veterans and military families in Virginia’s 11th District who are seeking information and guidance or are having difficulties securing services or benefits from the federal government. f t # e | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/in-armed-services-hearing-kaine-tells-joint-chiefs-congress-can-fix-sequestration | In Armed Services Hearing, Kaine Tells Joint Chiefs: Congress Can Fix Sequestration | 2013-11-07 | 2013 | 2013-11 | Democrat | House | VA | Tim Kaine | K000384 | www.kaine.senate.gov | legacy | In Armed Services Hearing, Kaine Tells Joint Chiefs: Congress Can Fix Sequestration Kaine calls on active duty military personnel, veterans & patriots to urge budget conferees to achieve budget deal by Dec. 13 deadline Thursday, November 7, 2013 WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, participated in a hearing with the Joint Chiefs of Staff on the impact of sequestration cuts on each branch of the military. In his opening comments, Kaine reiterated how sequester cuts have disproportionately impacted Virginia, as well as noted the important role the Budget Conference Committee, of which he is a conferee, can play in finding a bipartisan solution to reversing the non-strategic and unsustainable cuts. “The effect of sequester on Virginia is just so palpable in all the communities that I visit,” Kaine said. “It’s very important that we say this…sequester is because Congress hasn’t done a budget. And Congress can fix it.” Kaine added that any member of Congress who directs blame toward anyone else, including the Administration, is doing so “in an effort to avoid looking in the mirror.” Citing the ongoing Budget Conference as the clearest path to reversing sequester cuts, Kaine called on all Americans connected to the military to urge conferees to find a budget deal. “Whether you’re active, veteran, or just a patriot, tell the budget conferees…get a budget deal by the 13th of December. Because what you need is certainty and a path out of sequester,” Kaine said. In closing, Kaine asked General James Amos, Commandant of the Marine Corps, to elaborate on his testimony in respect to the impact of sequester cuts on civilian employees – a population that includes tens of thousands of Virginians “I’m ashamed of the way we’ve treated our civilian marines,” Amos said in response. “As I look back at how we went through the furlough and how we went through the government shutdown - the professionals that are worki… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-statement-on-final-passage-of-the-employment-non-discrimination-act | Kaine Statement On Final Passage Of The Employment Non-Discrimination Act | 2013-11-07 | 2013 | 2013-11 | Democrat | House | VA | Tim Kaine | K000384 | www.kaine.senate.gov | legacy | Kaine Statement On Final Passage Of The Employment Non-Discrimination Act Thursday, November 7, 2013 WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tim Kaine, a co-sponsor of the Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA), released the following statement today after its final passage, 64-32: “Today the Senate affirmed with bipartisan support that workplace discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation will not be tolerated. This important legislation will ban employers from denying job opportunities to LGBT employees, subjecting them to harassment, or firing them just for being themselves. My first act as Governor was to sign an executive order banning discrimination against state employees based on race, sex, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, age, political affiliation, veteran status or disability, and today I am proud to join a bipartisan majority of my Senate colleagues to continue the fight for equal treatment of all Americans.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z |
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