Press releases
Data license: MIT · Data source: dwillis/congress-press
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1,182 rows where party = "Democrat", state = "WA" and year = 2018 sorted by date descending
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| https://dennyheck.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/questions-and-answers-about-the-impact-of-a-partial-government-shutdown | Questions and Answers about the Impact of a Partial Government Shutdown | 2018-12-28 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | WA | Denny Heck | H001064 | dennyheck.house.gov | legacy | Will my mail still arrive during the shutdown? Yes. The U.S. Postal Service is not affected by a government shutdown. The U.S. Postal Service is an independent entity that is funded through the sale of its products and services, and not by tax dollars. Will I continue to receive my Social Security checks? Yes. During a government shutdown, recipients continue to receive their Social Security checks. Will Medicare and Medicaid be interrupted? No. The operations of Medicare and Medicaid will operate normally during the shutdown. Can I get taxpayer assistance from IRS personnel during the shutdown? It will likely be difficult. If the Trump Shutdown goes into January, it will have a significant impact on the IRS. While the shutdown continues, 90 percent of the IRS staff is furloughed. IRS's tax filing season is January-April. Beginning in January, some Americans will start thinking about filing their 2018 taxes, due April 15, 2019. This will be the first year when Americans are filing their taxes under the new GOP tax law, and many will have numerous questions. If the Trump Shutdown continues, the limited IRS staff will be unable to keep up with the questions coming in from taxpayers using the IRS customer service hotline. Can I get a passport during the shutdown? Perhaps, with it depending on where you live. The U.S. Passport Agency remains open during the shutdown and continues to issue passports. However, depending on where you live, the State Department could curtail issuing passports where those passport services are offered in buildings run by another agency that is shut down. Will I be able to continue visiting the national parks during the shutdown? The Trump Administration claims that the vast majority of national parks are open during the shutdown (on the grounds that barriers have not been put up at the parks to prevent entry.) However, the fact is that there are no services for visitors to National Park Service sites during the shutdown. Services such as restrooms, visitors' centers… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://dennyheck.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/its-about-time-editorial | It's about time (Editorial) | 2018-12-27 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | WA | Denny Heck | H001064 | dennyheck.house.gov | legacy | With the Chinese American WWII Veteran Congressional Gold Medal Act now being signed into law, let freedom ring for all. This is a wonderful holiday gift to the Chinese American community. The president's signature on this bill on Dec. 20 reaffirms this administration's recognition of the contributions that people of color make in protecting our nation. They put their lives on the line, pledging loyalty to our country, and proving that we are all patriots. The passing and signing into law of this act honorably recognizes the Chinese Americans who bravely served our country. Few people know that more than 18,000 Chinese and Chinese Americans served in the U.S. Armed Forces during WWII. They served in every capacity within the armed forces, even though the 1882 Chinese Exclusion Act was still in force for much of the war. Many earned citations for their heroism and honorable duty to our nation. Up until now, they were the only U.S. minority group that had not been recognized for their service. We have lost many of these patriots in the years since the end of WWII. With precious few still alive, it's about time that those still with us are getting honored and recognized for their selflessness and sacrifice. Ted Lieu (D-CA) introduced the bill, along with Ed Royce (R-CA) in the U.S. House of Representatives. Sens. Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), and Thad Cochran (R-MS) introduced it in the Senate. Here are the Washington senators and congressmen who cosponsored the bill: Sen. Maria Cantwell Sen. Patty Murray Rep. Suzan DelBene Rep. Denny Heck Rep. Jaime Herrera Beutler Rep. Pramila Jayapal Rep. Derek Kilmer Rep. Rick Larsen Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers Rep. Dan Newhouse Rep. Dave Reichert Rep. Adam Smith | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://larsen.house.gov/press-release/partial-government-shutdown-will-hurt-washington-communities | Partial Government Shutdown Will Hurt Washington Communities | 2018-12-22 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | WA | Rick Larsen | L000560 | larsen.house.gov | legacy | Partial Government Shutdown Will Hurt Washington Communities Dec 22, 2018 Issues: Budget WASHINGTON, D.C. Rep. Rick Larsen (WA-02) issued the below statement regarding the impacts a partial government shutdown will have on Washington state communities. A partial government shutdown is bad for Washington state, said Larsen. The childish games played by President Trump and Republicans in Congress will cause Washington state organizations and our communities to feel the consequences of a shutdown. I have heard from local organizations, like the Bellingham Food Bank, U.S. Department of Agriculture Service Center in Mount Vernon and Volunteers of America Western Washington, a partial shutdown will negatively impact operations, including their ability to provide funding for transportation, distribution and storage of food. This shutdown is unnecessary and will impact the thousands of workers who will now spend the holidays working without pay, especially the federal transportation personnel who will support the estimated 45 million passengers travelling during the holidays. Local Impacts of a Partial Government Shutdown Bellingham Food Bank is an emergency food assistance distributor. A shutdown will impact their operations and ability to transport, distribute and store food. A shutdown would close the USDA Service Center in Mount Vernon, which provides support for farmers and rural communities. A long-term shutdown could impact Volunteers of America Western Washington's operations and harm their ability to help the people they serve. Washington State Department of Transportation will need to delay Federal Transit Administration grant payments during a shutdown. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=50F862F5-933B-42A6-AA70-6DA829312834 | Senator Murray Statement on Partial Federal Government Shutdown | 2018-12-22 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | WA | Patty Murray | M001111 | www.murray.senate.gov | legacy | (Washington, D.C.) U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) released the following statement: This shutdown is truly absurd, and would not have happened if President Trump had simply ignored the 11th hour taunts of a handful of conservatives and instead moved forward with the Senate's bipartisan bill. On behalf of families in Washington state and across the country who are now left wondering when they'll get their next paycheck or when their government will be fully functioning, I'm urging Republicans to work with us to do the right thing and re-open the government as quickly as possible. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://delbene.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2415 | DelBene Statement on Trump Shutdown | 2018-12-21 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | WA | Suzan DelBene | D000617 | delbene.house.gov | legacy | Tonight, Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (D-WA) made the following statement regarding President Trump's refusal to keep the federal government open. Earlier this week, Republicans and Democrats in Congress were ready to pass legislation that would keep the government open. Unfortunately, President Trump in an effort to appease hardline conservatives and Fox News chose to sabotage this deal and demand $5 billion to fund a wasteful border wall that won't make us any safer. House Republicans have now embraced President Trump's desire to shut down the government. The shutdown will result in roughly 800,000 federal employees being furloughed or working without pay, just in time for the holidays. They include forest service firefighters, Customs and Border Protection agents, and TSA employees. New home and small business loans will stop, many national parks will close, and the IRS won't be able to issue tax refunds. Our farmers will also take a hit as Farm Service county offices will close and much-needed aid from the Department of Agriculture will cease. Enough is enough. This president whose party also controls the House and Senate is incapable of passing a simple spending measure without manufacturing a needless crisis. It's time for President Trump to set aside his ego and do right by the people he is fortunate to serve. Rep. DelBene represents Washington's first congressional district. She is a member of the Ways and Means Committee and the Budget Committee. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://larsen.house.gov/press-release/larsen-calls-house-leadership-permanently-reauthorize-lwcf | Larsen Calls on House Leadership to Permanently Reauthorize LWCF | 2018-12-21 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | WA | Rick Larsen | L000560 | larsen.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. This week, Rep. Rick Larsen (WA-02) sent a letter to House Speaker Paul Ryan and Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi calling for Congress to pass legislation to permanently authorize and allocate mandatory funding for the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) before the end of the 115th Congress. The Land and Water Conservation Fund is the cornerstone of environmental conservation which helps preserve Washington state's public lands and waters. Over the last 50 years, Washington state has received more than $675 million from the LWCF to help protect and restore green spaces such as Ebey's Landing National Historical Reserve, Chuckanut Bay and the Wild Sky Wilderness in my district. A healthy environment is vital to Washingtonians' way of life and the regional economy. Outdoor recreation is responsible for an estimated 7.6 million jobs in the United States and plays a significant role in the rural economies and for local businesses in the Second District, Larsen wrote. The Land and Water Conservation Authorization and Funding Act would permanently reauthorize and fully fund the LWCF. Securing annual, mandatory appropriations and permanent reauthorization for the LWCF will safeguard the nation's environmental heritage and guarantee green spaces and pristine waters are available for the enjoyment of future generations. You can read the full letter below. December 20, 2018 Representative Paul D. Ryan Speaker United States House of Representatives Washington, D.C. 20515 Representative Nancy Pelosi Minority Leader United States House of Representatives Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Speaker Ryan and Leader Pelosi: I write in strong support of the passage of the Land and Water Conservation Authorization and Funding Act (H.R. 6759). Congress must pass this bipartisan legislation to permanently reauthorize and allocate mandatory funding for the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) before the end of the 115th Congress. The Land and Water Conservation Fund is th… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://larsen.house.gov/press-release/larsen-calls-president-trump-step-efforts-combat-ebola-and-protect-national-security | Larsen Calls on President Trump to Step Up Efforts to Combat Ebola and Protect National Security | 2018-12-21 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | WA | Rick Larsen | L000560 | larsen.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. This week, Rep. Rick Larsen (WA-02) sent a letter to President Trump calling for the U.S. to combat the current outbreak of Ebola in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The outbreak is already the second worst in history with more than 500 cases, including nearly 300 deaths. Experts at the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) are among the very best in the world, having gained valuable experience during the largely unsung success of the response to the 2014 West Africa Ebola outbreak. These agencies have responded to other global emergencies where security threats were present. U.S. leadership will be critical to halting the current Ebola outbreak in the DRC and could convince other countries to increase their commitments, Larsen wrote in the letter. As Larsen noted in his letter, deploying CDC and USAID personnel to the epicenter of the outbreak would protect national security and align with the National Security Strategy and National Biodefense Strategy. I believe the U.S. response to date has been overly cautious. I ask you to direct the National Security Council to assess how many U.S. personnel are needed in North Kivu and Ituri, how to most effectively use them to combat the epidemic and how best to protect responders from security threats, Larsen continued. You can read the full letter below. December 20, 2018 President Donald J. Trump The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue Washington, DC 20500 Dear President Trump: The National Security Strategy (NSS) rightly identifies the impact of biological threats on national security. Building on this point, the National Biodefense Strategy (NBS) highlights the importance of U.S. intervention abroad, stating that the health of the American people depends on our ability to stem infectious disease outbreaks at their source, wherever and however they occur. The current outbreak of Ebola in North Kivu and Ituri provinces in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is already the second worst Ebola … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://larsen.house.gov/press-release/larsen-supports-historic-criminal-justice-reform-legislation | Larsen Supports Historic Criminal Justice Reform Legislation | 2018-12-21 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | WA | Rick Larsen | L000560 | larsen.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. Rep. Rick Larsen (WA-02) issued the below statement after voting for the First Step Act, which makes significant changes to the federal criminal justice system: The First Step Act is a good start in making important reforms to the U.S. criminal justice system. This bill reforms sentencing, prisoner assessment, living conditions and post-sentencing support. Through new programs, the bill aims to reduce recidivism and implement post-sentencing support, said Larsen. The bill makes important sentencing reforms for non-violent drug offenders and allows prisoners sentenced before the 2010 law to decrease the disparity on crack/cocaine to petition the court to be resentenced. The bill also includes other necessary provisions like banning the restraint of pregnant women and allowing access to employment assistance, substance abuse treatment, housing, family programming, mentoring and victim support. While Congress has more work to do in reforming the criminal justice system and decreasing the disparities within the system, I hope this first step will lead to many second chances, said Larsen. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=78093456-EB0D-4931-BE32-742A1750905F | VETERANS: Senator Murray Applauds VA Secretarys Announcement That Will Keep All Veterans in Caregiver Support Program While Reforms Made | 2018-12-21 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | WA | Patty Murray | M001111 | www.murray.senate.gov | legacy | Announcement comes two days after Senator Murray asked VA Secretary Wilkie during a Congressional hearing to allow veterans to stay in the program until reforms are made to ensure decisions are being made accurately Senator Murray's request comes after NPR report of veterans being kicked out or downgraded from program arbitrarily Senator Murray: I commend Secretary Wilkie for taking these concerns seriously...But this is just the first step.I urge the Secretary to use this time to get it right WATCH: Senator Murray's exchange with VA Secretary Wilkie about the Caregiver Support Program eligibility (Washington, D.C.) U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) commended Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Robert Wilkie for announcing today that VA will temporarily suspend discharges and downgrades for veterans enrolled in VA's Caregiver Support Program. The program, which Senator Murray helped implement in 2011 when she was Chairman of the Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee, supports those who provide care for veterans injured as a result of their service to our country. Senator Murray had expressed her deep concerns to Secretary Wilkie two days ago during a Congressional hearing about reports of veterans who'd lost eligibility in the program for arbitrary reasons. (Watch their exchange here.) I commend Secretary Wilkie for taking these concerns seriously and putting forth this moratorium. But this is just the first step. On behalf of veterans and their caregivers across the country, I urge the Secretary to use this time to get it right. Our military families, who sacrificed so much on our country's behalf, deserve nothing less, said Senator Murray. Senator Murray has consistently worked to hold senior VA officials accountable for implementing the Caregivers program in a way that works best for veterans and their caregivers, not the least of which is creating clear, standardized eligibility requirements. In June 2018, Senator Murray helped secure additional federal investments in the program to ensure VA had the r… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://adamsmith.house.gov/press-releases?ID=029CC42A-5800-42C1-84F5-39D4A544FA3E | Smith Urges FAA Action on Highline Amendment Guidance | 2018-12-20 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | WA | Adam Smith | S000510 | adamsmith.house.gov | legacy | 0 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | |||
| https://adamsmith.house.gov/press-releases?ID=15D7618D-427E-48E6-8996-1BEB1F6706DE | Smith Statement in Support of the First Step Act | 2018-12-20 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | WA | Adam Smith | S000510 | adamsmith.house.gov | legacy | 0 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | |||
| https://larsen.house.gov/press-release/after-months-championing-lynnwood-link-extension-dc-murray-cantwell-larsen-and-jayapal | After Months of Championing Lynnwood Link Extension in D.C., Murray, Cantwell, Larsen, and Jayapal Cheer Final Signature on the Project; Work on Long-Awaited Project Can Now Begin | 2018-12-20 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | WA | Rick Larsen | L000560 | larsen.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Maria Cantwell (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, and U.S. Representatives Rick Larsen (D, WA-2nd), a senior member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, and Pramila Jayapal (D, WA-7th) applauded the signing of the full funding grant agreement for the Lynnwood Link light rail extension following months of pressure from lawmakers urging U. S. Department of Transportation officials to follow Congressional direction and approve the grant. The final agreementsigned by the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) and Sound Transit CEO Peter Rogoffcements a $1.2 billion commitment from the federal government to help fund the Lynnwood Link project, and allows Sound Transit to begin drawing down on $200 million in federal funding already allocated by Congress for the project through the Capital Investment Grants (CIG) program. According to Sound Transit, now that the final agreement is signed and executed, work on the Lynnwood Link light rail extension is slated to begin in early 2019. This critical step comes on the heels of a new $657.9 million direct loan also approved through the Department's Transportation Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (TIFIA) program in support of the Lynnwood Link project. Just in time for the holidays, this major federal investment is an incredible gift to Puget Sound to help address congestion on our roads and connect residents to jobs, schools, and businesses in King and Snohomish counties. I commend Secretary Chao and the FTA for working with us to move this vital project forward, and I look forward to continuing our work in Congress to get this project across the finish line, said Senator Murray. The $1.2 billion commitment from the Department of Transportation is an important next step in supporting local jobs and the regional economy, said Representative Larsen. The Lynnwood Link Extension will add… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/-cantwell-applauds-signing-of-lynnwood-link-final-agreement | Cantwell Applauds Signing of Lynnwood Link Final Agreement | 2018-12-20 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | WA | Maria Cantwell | C000127 | www.cantwell.senate.gov | legacy | 12.20.18 Cantwell Applauds Signing of Lynnwood Link Final Agreement Work on light rail extension expected to start in early 2019 WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, applauded the signing of the final agreement between the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) and Sound Transit to provide funding to the Lynnwood Link light rail extension project: Finalizing this agreement means we can put shovels in the ground in early 2019 to provide commuters with a faster option to get to work, school, and throughout Puget Sound. With a 28 minute travel time between Lynnwood and downtown Seattle, Snohomish County will soon have a transit option that delivers the connectivity it needs to keep up with the tremendous growth the region has experienced. Senator Cantwell has long fought for more public transit and infrastructure funding for Puget Sound and Washington state, and she has repeatedly pressed senior Department of Transportation officials for funding for the Lynnwood Link project. At Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao's confirmation hearing, Cantwell urged Chao to prioritize more funding for Sound Transit. Cantwell has also fought back against the administration's efforts to cancel funding for nearly 60 shovel-ready public transit projects, including the Lynnwood Link project, and has advocated for strong funding for the Capital Investment Grant program. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-cantwell-murray-cheer-passage-of-their-legislation-to-award-spokane-native-steve-gleason-with-congressional-gold-medal | Senators Cantwell, Murray Cheer Passage of Their Legislation to Award Spokane Native Steve Gleason with Congressional Gold Medal | 2018-12-20 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | WA | Maria Cantwell | C000127 | www.cantwell.senate.gov | legacy | 12.20.18 Senators Cantwell, Murray Cheer Passage of Their Legislation to Award Spokane Native Steve Gleason with Congressional Gold Medal Standout WA football star and health care advocate becomes first NFL player in history to receive highest civilian honor Congress can bestow WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and Patty Murray (D-WA) applauded the House's passage of bipartisan legislation (S. 2652) to awardWashington state native, ALS champion, and former New Orleans Saints star Steve Gleasonwith the Congressional Gold Medal, following the Senate passage in June. The bill, championed by Cantwell and Murray, as well as Senators Bill Cassidy (R-LA) and John Kennedy (R-LA) and U.S. Representative Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA), now heads to the president's desk to be signed into law. The lives of countless people have been improved because of Steve's determination, perseverance, and advocacy. Rather putting up a white flag, Steve used his own devastating diagnosis to inspire a nation and make sure people living with ALS have access to the latest speech-generating technology. It is befitting that Steve's incredible work be recognized with a Congressional Gold Medal,said Senator Cantwell. The Congressional Gold Medal is reserved for those individuals who make a profound and lasting contribution to our country and Mr. Gleason has certainly done that, said Senator Murray. For those of us who've followed him from his early days in eastern Washington, to anyone just learning about his story today, we are all so fortunate that Steve brings the same fight and passion to his health care advocacy that he brought to the football field. Steve, you make Washington state so proud, and it's been my honor to play a role in helping your Congressional Gold Medal come to fruition. The Stephen Michael Gleason Congressional Gold Medal Act recognizes Gleason for his work th… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/servicemembers-can-be-charged-cancellation-fees-when-they-deploy-cantwell-fischer-secure-fix | Servicemembers Can Be Charged Cancellation Fees When they Deploy; Cantwell, Fischer Secure Fix | 2018-12-20 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | WA | Maria Cantwell | C000127 | www.cantwell.senate.gov | legacy | 12.20.18 Servicemembers Can Be Charged Cancellation Fees When they Deploy; Cantwell, Fischer Secure Fix Senators' bill will shield military servicemembers from pay TV and internet cancellation fees WASHINGTON, D.C. Legislation introduced by U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE) to amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) to ensure military servicemembers are not charged cancellation fees for pay TV and internet services when they deploy or change duty stations passed the Senate. The legislation passed the House of Representatives earlier last week and now heads to President Trump's desk for signature into law. Under existing law, servicemembers may break rental leases, cellphone contracts, car leases, and other contractual agreements without penalty if they are relocating or deploying on official orders. The Cantwell-Fischer bill extends the same relief to cover pay TV and internet service contracts for relocating or deploying servicemembers and eligible dependents. Our brave servicemembers leave their families, loved ones, and communities to serve our country and defend our freedoms, said Senator Cantwell. This bill will allow servicemembers to focus on their families and training for pending deployments instead of costly cancellation fees. When our men and women in uniform are deployed or relocated, the last thing they should have to worry about are cancellation fees from TV or internet providers. I helped lead this bipartisan solution to prevent unfair fees and reduce burdens when deploying, so that service members can concentrate on their active duty orders. Now that Congress has passed the legislation, I hope President Trump will quickly sign it into law to make life a bit easier for the Americans who defend our nation and keep us safe, said Senator Fischer. Currently, there are limited protections for servicemembers who are issu… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=3762C362-C5EC-4F32-85AF-D80B28E2C37D | Senator Murray Applauds Senate Passage of Her Bill to Make Applying for Federal Financial Aid Easier for Students in Washington State and Nationwide | 2018-12-20 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | WA | Patty Murray | M001111 | www.murray.senate.gov | legacy | Bipartisan bill will allow students to complete tax information on the FAFSA with only one click; now heads to House for a vote Senator Murray: Bill will help fix federal financial aid so students and student loan borrowers are able navigate financial aid through a streamlined and efficient process ICYMI Senator Murray's Medium Post: Thousands of dollars for Washington state college students who just need to fill out a form MORE HERE (Washington, D.C.) U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), top Democrat on the Senate education committee, cheered the Senate passage of legislation that will make it easier for the nearly 20 million students that complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) each year by having the IRS securely send the Department of Education their federal tax information with one-click. The Faster Access to Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) Act, introduced by Senator Murray last month, will simplify the process for students to file their Free Application for Federal Student Aid, make it easier for certain student loan borrowers to pay back their loans, and streamline coordination between federal agencies that handle student aid programs. Now that the Senate has passed the legislation, it will head to the U.S. House of Representatives. Our nation's outdated and overly complicated financial aid system is forcing students and student loan borrowers to jump through too many hoops to access federal financial aid, verify the tax returns they've already filled out, or get help if they're struggling to pay their student loans, said Senator Murray. I'm pleased to work with my colleagues on this needed fix to federal financial aid, and I urge the House to pass this quickly so students and borrowers are able navigate their financial aid through a streamlined and efficient process. The Faster Access to Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) Actwillmake FAFSA completion easierand more securefor nearly 20 million studentsby: Improvingand securingthe way individuals' IRS tax information is sent to the Depart… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=7C195FE6-3DB6-4B69-B559-1CA6243F30E0 | TRANSPORTATION: After Months of Championing Lynnwood Link Extension in DC, Murray, Cantwell, Larsen, and Jayapal Cheer Final Signature on the Project; Work on Long-Awaited Project Can Now Begin | 2018-12-20 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | WA | Patty Murray | M001111 | www.murray.senate.gov | legacy | Signing of final agreement for Lynnwood Link light rail extension project follows 30-day congressional review period Sound Transit can start drawing down federal funds for Lynnwood Link project, including $200M in funding already appropriated by Congress Key federal loan to support Lynnwood Link project also approved WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Maria Cantwell (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, and U.S. Representatives Rick Larsen (D, WA-2nd), a senior member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, and Pramila Jayapal (D, WA-7th) applauded the signing of the full funding grant agreement for the Lynnwood Link light rail extension following months of pressure from lawmakers urging U. S. Department of Transportation officials to follow Congressional direction and approve the grant. The final agreementsigned by the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) and Sound Transit CEO Peter Rogoffcements a $1.2 billion commitment from the federal government to help fund the Lynnwood Link project, and allows Sound Transit to begin drawing down on $200 million in federal funding already allocated by Congress for the project through the Capital Investment Grants (CIG) program. According to Sound Transit, now that the final agreement is signed and executed, work on the Lynnwood Link light rail extension is slated to begin in early 2019. This critical step comes on the heels of a new $657.9 million direct loan also approved through the Department's Transportation Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (TIFIA) program in support of the Lynnwood Link project. Just in time for the holidays, this major federal investment is an incredible gift to Puget Sound to help address congestion on our roads and connect residents to jobs, schools, and businesses in King and Snohomish counties. I commend Secretary Chao and the FTA for working with us to move this vital project forward, and… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=BE1F7DC5-B0DA-4684-9FA2-999A8DA9C513 | Senators Murray, Cantwell Cheer Passage of Their Legislation to Award Spokane Native Steve Gleason with Congressional Gold Medal | 2018-12-20 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | WA | Patty Murray | M001111 | www.murray.senate.gov | legacy | Standout WA football star and health care advocate becomes first NFL player in history to receive highest civilian honor Congress can bestow Popular bipartisan legislation will now head to the president's desk to be signed into law WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA) and Maria Cantwell (D-WA) applauded the House's passage of bipartisan legislation (S. 2652) to awardWashington state native, ALS champion, and former New Orleans Saints star Steve Gleasonwith the Congressional Gold Medal, following the Senate passage in June. The bill, championed by Murray, Cantwell, as well as Senators Bill Cassidy (R-LA) and John Kennedy (R-LA) and U.S. Representative Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA), now heads to the president's desk to be signed into law. The Congressional Gold Medal is reserved for those individuals who make a profound and lasting contribution to our country and Mr. Gleason has certainly done that, said Senator Murray. For those of us who've followed him from his early days in eastern Washington, to anyone just learning about his story today, we are all so fortunate that Steve brings the same fight and passion to his health care advocacy that he brought to the football field. Steve, you make Washington state so proud, and it's been my honor to play a role in helping your Congressional Gold Medal come to fruition. The lives of countless people have been improved because of Steve's determination, perseverance, and advocacy. Rather putting up a white flag, Steve used his own devastating diagnosis to inspire a nation and make sure people living with ALS have access to the latest speech-generating technology. It is befitting that Steve's incredible work be recognized with a Congressional Gold Medal, said Senator Cantwell. The Stephen Michael Gleason Congressional Gold Medal Act recognizes Gleason for his work through the Gleason Initiative Foundation to provide individuals with neuromuscular diseases or injuries with the assistance they need to thrive, his advocacy for federal legislation en… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://dennyheck.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/new-proposal-made-on-relocation-tax-issue | New Proposal Made on Relocation Tax Issue | 2018-12-19 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | WA | Denny Heck | H001064 | dennyheck.house.gov | legacy | Legislation (HR-7254) newly introduced in the House aims to fix a tax liability for federal employees who relocate that was caused by last year's tax law changes. That law made employer-paid relocation expenses taxable as ordinary income effective with calendar year 2018, ending a previous general exclusion from taxes that now applies only to military personnel. Under urging from several members of Congress, the GSA told agencies to essentially make employees whole for the added tax liability for transfers within the U.S. However, the GSA instruction does not protect employees relocating from overseas, meaning that they may owe thousands of more dollars in taxes, sponsor Rep. Denny Heck, D-Wash., said in introducing the bill. The measure, which would apply retroactively to the beginning of this year, would make civilian federal employees returning from overseas eligible for a tax exclusion like that applying to military personnel. It also would make newly hired and retiring employees eligible for the reimbursement. This close to the adjournment of Congress, the best chance for enactment likely would be to try attaching the proposal to some other measure set to pass. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/-murray-cantwell-call-on-trump-administration-to-protect-rights-of-transgender-federal-employees | Murray, Cantwell Call on Trump Administration to Protect Rights of Transgender Federal Employees | 2018-12-19 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | WA | Maria Cantwell | C000127 | www.cantwell.senate.gov | legacy | 12.19.18 Murray, Cantwell Call on Trump Administration to Protect Rights of Transgender Federal Employees WASHINGTON, D.C. This week, U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), and 27 of their Senate colleagues called on the Trump administration to restore guidelines for protecting the privacy and rights of transgender federal employees. Last month, the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) replaced information on its website that provided supervisors with guidelines regarding transgender federal employees with new guidance that omits essential information, including any reference to transgender individuals. We write to express our serious concern that guidance meant to ensure transgender federal employees are treated with dignity and respect has been removed from the website of the U.S. Office of Personnel Management, the senators wrote in a letter to the Acting Director of OPM. We request that you immediately make the guidance available online, so that managers, supervisors, and employees are equipped with accurate information and fully understand their responsibilities in the federal workplace. The new guidance that replaced it omits essential information, including any reference to transgender individuals, greatly diminishing OPM's ability to educate federal agencies on anti-discrimination policies and retain a productive federal workforce as diverse as the people it serves, the senators continued. The Trump Administration has removed information about LGBTQ people from a variety of websites across federal agencies, including the White House website, the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Women's Health website, and the Department of State website, and has aggressively taken anti-LGBTQ actions, which have been catalogued by the National Center for Transgender Equality and GLAAD. In addition to Murray and Cantwell, the letter was also signed by U.S. Senators Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Mazie Hirono (D… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-pallone-demand-immediate-action-on-pipeline-cybersecurity-from-dhs | Cantwell, Pallone Demand Immediate Action On Pipeline Cybersecurity From DHS | 2018-12-19 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | WA | Maria Cantwell | C000127 | www.cantwell.senate.gov | legacy | 12.19.18 Cantwell, Pallone Demand Immediate Action On Pipeline Cybersecurity From DHS The Call Comes on the Heels of a GAO Report Spotlighting Vulnerabilities in our System Washington, D.C. Today, Ranking Member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and House Energy and Commerce Ranking Member Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ) released a letter to DHS Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen calling for her to take urgent action to protect America's pipelines from cyber attack. The letter comes as the Government Accountability Office (GAO) released a report today, requested by Cantwell and Pallone, detailing issues American pipelines face defending against potentially catastrophic cyber attacks. We write today to request the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) perform an assessment of current cyber and physical security protections for U.S. natural gas, oil, and other hazardous liquid pipelines and associated infrastructure, Cantwell and Pallone wrote. We also request a specific plan of action as to how DHS will address GAO's concerns. Our nation's energy assets are critical to our safety, security and economic well-being. Protecting our pipelines, and the people who live and work near them, must be a top priority for our government and I hope this report will prompt the Trump administration to start treating this challenge with the urgency it deserves, said Sen. Cantwell. It's clear from GAO's work that while pipelines are reliable today, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is not fully prepared to face the challenges of tomorrow. I'm concerned that TSA lacks both the resources and expertise in energy delivery systems to keep up with its obligations under the law. Secretary Nielsen must address the concerns Senator Cantwell and I raise in our letter to ensure the security of our nation's pipelines. said Rep. Pallone. Key findings of the GAO report … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=969E594F-4E86-4DDC-A6DA-0B58902EF71F | Senators Murray, Cantwell Call on Trump Administration to Protect Rights of Transgender Federal Employees | 2018-12-19 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | WA | Patty Murray | M001111 | www.murray.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. This week, U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), and 27 of their Senate colleagues called on the Trump administration to restore guidelines for protecting the privacy and rights of transgender federal employees. Last month, the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) replaced information on its website that provided supervisors with guidelines regarding transgender federal employees with new guidance that omits essential information, including any reference to transgender individuals. We write to express our serious concern that guidance meant to ensure transgender federal employees are treated with dignity and respect has been removed from the website of the U.S. Office of Personnel Management, the senators wrote in a letter to the Acting Director of OPM. We request that you immediately make the guidance available online, so that managers, supervisors, and employees are equipped with accurate information and fully understand their responsibilities in the federal workplace. The new guidance that replaced it omits essential information, including any reference to transgender individuals, greatly diminishing OPM's ability to educate federal agencies on anti-discrimination policies and retain a productive federal workforce as diverse as the people it serves, the senators continued. The Trump Administration has removed information about LGBTQ people from a variety of websites across federal agencies, including the White House website, the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Women's Health website, and the Department of State website, and has aggressively taken anti-LGBTQ actions, which have been catalogued by the National Center for Transgender Equality and GLAAD. In addition to Murray and Cantwell, the letter was also signed by U.S. Senators Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Ed Markey (D-MA), Chris Coons (D-DE), Pat Leahy (D-VT), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI)… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=E6665B19-43D2-4B43-A7CD-07DAB2DA0605 | As Impact of #MeToo Movement Grows in Washington State and Nationwide, New Report From Senator Murray Shines Spotlight On Sexual Assault, Harassment In Key Industries; Recommends Next Steps To Stop Harassment For All Workers | 2018-12-19 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | WA | Patty Murray | M001111 | www.murray.senate.gov | legacy | Yearlongoversight report highlights stories of brave women and men who came forward to share experiences of workplace harassment, their storiesare making an impact Report highlights need for new federal action to give workers the tools and support they need to hold employers accountable Senator Murray: I wanted to make sure that Congress paid attention not just to the stories from Hollywood or here in the nation's capital, but to all workers ***Read the full report HERE*** (Washington, D.C.) U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), top Democrat on the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, released a new report on the scourge of workplace harassment, entitled, So I Tolerated It:' How Workplaces Are Responding to Harassment and the Clear Need for Federal Action. The report is a result of a nearly yearlong examination, initiated by Senator Murray after so many brave women and men came forward and shared their stories of sexual harassment and assault in the wake of the #MeToo movement. It examines the ways in which survivors' stories are leading to change and underscores the need for stronger action to ensure workers have the tools and support to hold employers accountable. The report comes on the heels of legislation passed by Congress last week to strengthen protections for congressional employees against sexual assault and harassment, which Senator Murray supported. We've seen so many people bravely come forward and make clear that sexual assault and harassment in the workplace just has to stopand I wanted to make sure that Congress paid attention not just to the stories from Hollywood or here in the nation's capital, but to all workers, especially in industries like manufacturing and food service where these threats are especially high,said Senator Murray.It's inspiring to see that, as the report shows, workers are having an impact by speaking up. It's also clear there is a real need for stronger protections and preventative measures, which is something I'll be very focused on as we hea… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=F906B520-0E6D-4FF3-99EA-A4A297503936 | Senators Murray, Cantwell Join Senate Democratic Colleagues to Urge President Trump to Condemn Texas v. U.S. Decision That Could Gut Health Care for Millions of Patients and Families, Protect Pre-Existing Condition Protections | 2018-12-19 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | WA | Patty Murray | M001111 | www.murray.senate.gov | legacy | In new letter, Senators call controversial federal court decision on health care not just legally unsound, but inhumane and cruel Senators to President Trump: Americans need you to work with us to defend their access to quality, affordable health carewe must not let this flawed court decision stand and devastate millions of American families both physically and financially ICYMI: After Texas Federal Court Decision, Senate Democrats Urge Republicans to Show Leadership, Defend Patient Protections WATCH VIDEO HERE WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA), top Democrat on the Senate health committee, and Maria Cantwell (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Finance Committee, joined a group of 49 Senators in calling on President Trump to condemn the recent decision in Texas v. United States which declared the Affordable Care Act (ACA) unconstitutional. If the decision stands, 20 million Americans will be left without the health insurance they rely on, 133 million Americans with a pre-existing condition will be at risk of losing their access to health insurance, and millions of families across the country will see healthcare costs rise. In their letter to President Trump, the Senators wrote in part, It is not too late for you to condemn this decision by requesting a stay and taking steps to defend the Affordable Care Act moving forward. The ACA is, quite simply, the law of the land, and it is your Administration's duty to defend it. Further, even among the numerous, failed attempts to repeal the ACA, there was widespread recognition that simply repealing the law without a replacement would be too devastating to American families and to our economy to fathom. Yet that is exactly what this ruling, if upheld, would do. The Senators continued: Americans need you to work with us to defend their access to quality, affordable health care. We can work together to improve our health care system and reduce costs, but we must not let this flawed court decision stand and devastate millions of American famil… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=3E2BECB1-1022-4414-AE60-D1ABBA1170B6 | Senator Murray Statement on School Safety Commission: It is insulting to students, parents, and teachers that Secretary DeVos wasted this opportunity | 2018-12-18 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | WA | Patty Murray | M001111 | www.murray.senate.gov | legacy | Trump administration school safety commission released report that failed to address commonsense gun safety reform, recommended reversing policies aimed at addressing discriminatory discipline practices in schools Senator Murray: Report underscores that Secretary DeVos is more interested in pandering to the NRA than listening to the students, parents, and teachers ICYMI: Senator Murray Demands Answers From Education Secretary Betsy DeVos on New Gun Commission MORE HERE (Washington, D.C.) U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), top Democrat on the Senate education committee, released the following statement today on the report released by the Trump administration's school safety commission. After the Parkland shooting, Senator Murray voiced concerns that the Commission, led by Department of Education Secretary Betsy DeVos, would be nothing more than a distraction and delay from addressing meaningful gun safety measures. It is insulting to students, parents, and teachers that Secretary DeVos wasted this opportunity to make some progress on a really important issue. Despite overwhelming evidence and basic common sense, Secretary DeVos is trying to make the case that it's not weapons of war in schools that make students unsafe, but rather the true danger is schools' attempts to fight racism and inappropriate discipline. This is mind-boggling and absurd, and it underscores that Secretary DeVos is more interested in pandering to the NRA than listening to the students, parents, and teachers she is supposed to serve. The gun industry itself could not have written a more blatant and obvious distraction from the real problem gun violence poses to students across our country. Though the Trump administration commission on school safety was formed following the deadly school shooting in Parkland, Florida, the report completely avoids addressing meaningful, commonsense gun safety reform, such as universal background checks for gun purchases. The report also recommends the Departments of Education and Justice roll back Obama… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/reps-tim-ryan-d-oh-and-derek-kilmer-d-wa-place-friendly-bet-on-rose-bowl-game | Reps. Tim Ryan (D-OH) and Derek Kilmer (D-WA) Place Friendly Bet on Rose Bowl Game | 2018-12-17 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | WA | Derek Kilmer | K000381 | kilmer.house.gov | legacy | 12.17.18 Reps. Tim Ryan (D-OH) and Derek Kilmer (D-WA) Place Friendly Bet on Rose Bowl Game Washington, DC Representatives Derek Kilmer (D-WA) and Tim Ryan (D-OH) today made a friendly wager on the 2019 Rose Bowl Game: The Ohio State University Buckeyes vs The University of Washington Huskies. If the Huskies win, Ryan agreed to give Kilmer Buckeyes from Gorant Chocolatier and gourmet popcorn from Metropolis Popcorn; and, if The Ohio State University wins the game, Kilmer agreed to give Ryan candy apples from Amy's Decadent Chocolate, Almond Roca, and smoked salmon. The forecast in Ohio's 13th Congressional District is calling for Purple Reign, Kilmer said. Myles Gaskin and Jake Browning are an unstoppable combo. And, Ohio State's offense is no match for the nation's leading tackler Ben Burr-Kirven and the stout Husky defense. I'm looking forward to eating some buckeyes after the Huskies beat Ohio State. Go Dawgs. I have no doubt that we will see The Ohio State Buckeyes claim victory over the Washington Huskies in the 2019 Rose Bowl. The Big Ten Champion Buckeyes have been firing on all cylinders and is being led by one of Ohio State's most talented quarterbacks, Dwayne Haskins a Heisman finalist who has led the country in both passing yards and touchdown passes. We will be starting the New Year with a W' and some Washington candy apples, Almond Roca, and smoked salmon to top it all off, said Ryan. This matchup will be the first time in the College Football Playoff era that the Rose Bowl has its traditional matchup, the Pac-12 champion against the Big Ten champion. ### Next Article Previous Article | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=6A0D5F41-DD00-41DD-A5F9-24BFE6A76170 | Ahead of One Year Anniversary of Fatal Train Derailment near DuPont, Senator Murray Remembers Victims and Continues Push for Strengthened Investments in Critical Train Safety Technology | 2018-12-17 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | WA | Patty Murray | M001111 | www.murray.senate.gov | legacy | The derailment of Amtrak Cascades train 501 near DuPont, WA, on Dec. 18, 2017, killed three train passengers and injured 70 other people who were either on the train or in their vehicles on I-5 below Senator Murray is pushing at the federal level to implement Positive Train Control (PTC) nationwide, technology that could have prevented the DuPont train derailment A senior member of the Appropriations Committee, Senator Murray has fought for federal support for PTC, including securing significant investments in PTC in the current spending bill Senator Murray: I will not stop demanding answers from federal officials and railroads about the progress of PTC implementation, or holding them accountable for making sure trains are as safe as possible ICYMI: At Senate Hearing, Senator Murray Presses Federal and Amtrak Officials for Update on Implementation of Life-saving Train Safety Technology MORE HERE Tacoma News Tribune Editorial: In the aftermath of the DuPont tragedy, Murray is right to demand answers MORE HERE (Washington, D.C.) Leading up to the first anniversary of the tragic Amtrak Cascades train derailment near DuPont, Washington, U.S. Senator Murray (D-WA) urged her colleagues to strengthen federal investments in technology that could prevent similar train accidents in honor of the train derailment's victims. A senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Senator Murray has fought to increase federal support for Positive Train Control (PTC), safety technology that could have prevented the Cascades derailment which killed three people and injured 70 others, including working to secure new federal investments for PTC implementation in the current transportation spending bill before Congress. The tragic loss of life and injuries caused by last December's train derailment resonated with people from DuPont, Washington, to Washington, D.C. because no family or community should have to experience that type of heartbreak and horrorespecially when technology already exists to help prevent tragedies l… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://dennyheck.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-heck-reacts-to-ruling-against-the-affordable-care-act | Congressman Heck reacts to ruling against the Affordable Care Act | 2018-12-15 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | WA | Denny Heck | H001064 | dennyheck.house.gov | legacy | Congressman Denny Heck (WA-10) released the following statement after a federal judge in Texas v. United States struck down the Affordable Care Act, including its protections for people with pre-existing conditions: The fight for affordable health care has morphed into a game of chutes and ladders, said Heck. This misguided ruling represents a spiteful and steep slide down for those of us who want to make health care more affordable and accessible for all Americans. No matter how hard we try to push the conversation forward, we find the basic tenets of the Affordable Care Act under attack by the White House and in the courts. The opponents take calculated steps to undo all that this landmark law was able to do provide Americans with comprehensive, affordable insurance so everyone can access the medical treatment they need to stay healthy. I don't know of any elected official who can sleep at night knowing that they ripped affordable health care away from millions of Americans and also made it increasingly unaffordable for the rest. Policymaking and governing is supposed to be about solutions, not sabotage, and it's past time that President Trump and his allies in Congress come to learn that. On December 14, a federal judge ruled the ACA unconstitutional. This lawsuit was brought by twenty Republican state attorneys general after the deficit-exploding tax scam zeroed out the mandate that everyone carry health insurance. In June 2018, President Trump announced that his administration would not defend the ACA in this lawsuit. Shortly after, Congressman Heck cosponsored H.Res. 1031, a resolution that would allow the House of Representatives to intervene and defend the ACA in Texas v. United States. This ruling will not impact current coverage or 2019 coverage while the case is moving through the courts. Open enrollment for 2019 coverage ends tonight in most states. To enroll, visit Healthcare.gov. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=8EE44F7A-F6CA-45D5-9292-BFFA7993A39F | Senator Murray Statement on Secretary Ryan Zinkes Resignation from the U.S. Department of the Interior | 2018-12-15 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | WA | Patty Murray | M001111 | www.murray.senate.gov | legacy | (Washington, D.C.) Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) released the following statement: Despite his pledges to be a Theodore Roosevelt-like leader on conservation, Mr. Zinke's tenure at Interior proves he was anything but. From rolling back protections for our treasured U.S. monuments, to advancing a foreign mining project in Washington state, Mr. Zinke clearly never had the best interests of our environment or future generations in mind. Instead, his legacy at Interior will be known for scandal after scandal, and selling out to special interests. I'm glad Mr. Zinke is leaving this important post and now I hope President Trump bows to public pressure and nominates someone who will actually put people and the environment first, ahead of the corporations and special interests that view our public lands and natural resources not as something to be preserved, but solely to be used for profit. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/reps-rice-gallagher-and-kilmer-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-increase-accountability-and-transparency-of-political-spending | Reps. Rice, Gallagher & Kilmer Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Increase Accountability and Transparency of Political Spending | 2018-12-14 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | WA | Derek Kilmer | K000381 | kilmer.house.gov | legacy | 12.14.18 Reps. Rice, Gallagher & Kilmer Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Increase Accountability and Transparency of Political Spending WASHINGTON U.S. Representatives Kathleen Rice (D-NY), Mike Gallagher (R-WI), and Derek Kilmer (D-WA), three of the co-chairs of the Congressional Reformers Caucus, announced the introduction of a bipartisan bill to increase disclosure and accountability of political spending. The Political Accountability and Transparency Act, H.R. 7267, would strengthen coordination rules between super PACs and individual campaigns to ensure that super PACs truly operate independently from candidates, require political advertisements to disclose the top donors to the organization paying for the advertisements, and would apply the personal use restriction on campaign funds to all political committees, including leadership PACs. For too long, we've allowed outside money to play an outsized and shadowy role in our politics, blurring the lines between special interest groups and the candidates they support, said Representative Kathleen Rice. The Political Accountability and Transparency Act will close some of the most gaping loopholes in our campaign finance laws by increasing restrictions and reporting requirements for outside groups. This bipartisan bill will help restore integrity and trust in our nation's political process. The American people deserve to know who is spending hundreds of millions of dollars every election cycle to influence their vote and muddy our politics, said Representative Gallagher. This bipartisan bill is critical to injecting more transparency into our campaign finance system and helping reduce the corrosive influence of dark money in our elections. I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to support this important piece of legislation. Sunlight is the best disinfectant, Rep. Derek Kilmer said. Americans deserve to know who is paying for the political ads they see regardless of how those ads are purchased. The Political Accountability and Transparency Act… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/-cantwell-murray-call-on-federal-government-to-include-firefighters-in-studies-on-health-effects-of-exposure-to-pfas | Cantwell, Murray Call on Federal Government to Include Firefighters in Studies on Health Effects of Exposure to PFAS | 2018-12-14 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | WA | Maria Cantwell | C000127 | www.cantwell.senate.gov | legacy | 12.14.18 Cantwell, Murray Call on Federal Government to Include Firefighters in Studies on Health Effects of Exposure to PFAS WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and Patty Murray (D-WA) this week joined a bipartisan group of 23 senators in requesting the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) take additional steps to ensure the health effects of occupational exposure to per-and polyfluoralkyl substance (PFAS), particularly in firefighters, are sufficiently studied. Firefighters are a vital component of our nation's emergency response system and risk their lives to protect the communities they serve, the senators wrote. There is a critical need to better understand how PFAS workplace exposure among firefighters may affect the health of these heroes and their families. Cantwell and Murray both supported the establishment of the first-ever nationwide PFAS health impact study in the fiscal year (FY) 2018 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which will be conducted by ATSDR. However, earlier this year, ATSDR Director Patrick Breysse announced that firefighters will not be included in the study. In their letter, the senators requested that the agencies ensure future studies investigating the potential health effects from PFAS exposure include firefighters and others who are more likely to come into contact with the chemicals in occupational settings. Firefighters, both military and civilian, work in environments that have higher exposure to PFAS, which are found in firefighting foam. As you are aware, PFAS chemicals are a byproduct of aqueous film forming foam (AFFF), a fire suppressant agent, and have been linked to a number of adverse human health effects, the senators continued. The potential ties between PFAS and various forms of cancer are of particular concern to military and civilian firefighters across the country who may have experienced long-term occupational exposure to PFAS du… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=64853EAE-EFEA-4427-9623-09A60A0D5C68 | Senator Murray: Blatantly Partisan Republican Legal Threat Once Again Jeopardizes Pre-Ex Protections; Families Health Care | 2018-12-14 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | WA | Patty Murray | M001111 | www.murray.senate.gov | legacy | Senator Murray urges Republicans who claimed to support pre-existing conditions to show leadership; ensure people are protected from reckless Republican political games (Washington, D.C.) U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), ranking member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, issued the following statement on a ruling jeopardizing health care for tens of millions of people across the country. Thanks to Republicans' nonstop effort to jeopardize health care in our country, tens of millions of people with pre-existing conditions, women in need of affordable birth control, and seniors stretching to afford their prescriptions are worried once again about what the future holds for their health care coverage. Democrats are going to keep fighting to protect care for every patient and family in our country, but let me be clear: this blatantly partisan legal threat shows it's time for every single Republican who claimed this November that they support protections for pre-existing conditions, or care about affordable health care for the people they represent, to prove it by showing some leadership, dropping the harmful partisan politics, and making sure families aren't hurt once again by their party's reckless political games. The ruling comes just one day before the open enrollment deadline for 2019, and families can and should continue to sign up for coverage on the exchanges. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://adamsmith.house.gov/press-releases?ID=53BEE5C7-665E-471B-B6AE-C4DBE926A5DD | Senate Passes Smith Legislation Honoring James Marshall Jimi Hendrix | 2018-12-13 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | WA | Adam Smith | S000510 | adamsmith.house.gov | legacy | 0 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | |||
| https://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/kilmer-delbene-bill-to-improve-timber-innovation-passes-house-expected-to-become-law | Kilmer, DelBene Bill to Improve Timber Innovation Passes House, Expected to Become Law | 2018-12-13 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | WA | Derek Kilmer | K000381 | kilmer.house.gov | legacy | 12.13.18 Kilmer, DelBene Bill to Improve Timber Innovation Passes House, Expected to Become Law Washington, D.C. Representatives Derek Kilmer (D-WA) and Suzan DelBene (D-WA) applauded the passage of important measures in the Timber Innovation Act (H.R. 1380) as part of the 2019 Farm Bill that passed the House of Representatives yesterday evening. Kilmer and DelBene introduced the bipartisan, bicameral legislation which would find new and innovative uses for wood as a building material. The Farm Bill is expected to be signed into law by the president. Following the economic crisis of 2008, rural communities across Washington state saw major job losses throughout the timber industry. Since then, advances have been made showing that tall buildings can be built using cleaner and less expensive materials such as cross-laminated timber (CLT), a hybrid wood panel system that consists of lumber boards that are glued together, and which are stronger and more cost-effective. A greater investment in products like CLT could result in more economic opportunities for rural parts of Washington. Components of the Timber Innovation Act in the Farm Bill include establishing a new performance driven research and development program advancing tall wood building construction. Also included are federal grants to support state, local, tribal, university and private sector education, outreach, and research and development to accelerate the use of wood in tall buildings. DelBene introduced the legislation to spur the use of tall wood building construction those above 85 feet or seven stories through the use of less expensive and cleaner materials like CLT, which will lower our carbon footprint and significantly aid forest health. Building with new wood technologies and wood that is sustainably harvested will lead to more jobs and mills on the Olympic Peninsula and taller, more earthquake-resistant buildings in Seattle, Kilmer said. That's a vision that I call timber 2.0, which is a sustainable plan that will reinvigorate tim… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://larsen.house.gov/press-release/larsen-votes-farm-bill-address-hunger-washington-state-and-support-local-farms | Larsen Votes for Farm Bill to Address Hunger in Washington State and Support Local Farms | 2018-12-13 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | WA | Rick Larsen | L000560 | larsen.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. Rep. Rick Larsen (WA-02) issued the below statement after voting for the Farm Bill, which would support Washington's Second Congressional District: The final Farm Bill addresses some of the concerns I raised regarding the House Farm Bill in May. Nearly one in eight Washingtonians suffer from hunger, and this legislation provides important funding to help address hunger in local communities. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) accounts for 80 percent of the 2018 Farm Bill. The final version of the legislation does not include the egregious work requirements which would have placed an undue burden on the more than 34,000 households in Washington's Second District using food stamps to put dinner on the table each night. Instead, the Farm Bill invests in Employment and Training opportunities. In 2016, Washington state's Basic Food Employment and Training program connected over 2,500 volunteer SNAP recipients with skills, training and job experience to improve their employment prospects and reduce reliance on SNAP. Washington state is the most trade-dependent state in the country, thanks in part to agriculture. The Farm Bill is an opportunity for Congress to help Washington state farmers stay competitive in a global market. The Farm Bill includes permanent funding for Value-Added Producer Grants (VAPG), which help farmers in Skagit Valley invest in value-added infrastructure to generate new products and create and expand marketing opportunities. Access to VAPG funding will help farmers stay competitive as they sell Washington-grown crops around the world. Additionally, the bill recognizes the importance of fostering future trade opportunities for local farmers. Agriculture accounts for 12 percent of Washington state's economy, is the state's second largest export and supports 160,000 jobs. This legislation will help local groups develop and expand into overseas markets. During my visits to farms and meetings with agriculture groups, I have heard repeatedly about the need to expand fun… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/-cantwell-colleagues-call-for-ferc-commissioner-mcnamees-recusal-from-future-discussions-involving-potential-subsidization-of-coal-nuclear-plants- | Cantwell, Colleagues Call for FERC Commissioner McNamee’s Recusal from Future Discussions Involving Potential Subsidization of Coal, Nuclear Plants | 2018-12-13 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | WA | Maria Cantwell | C000127 | www.cantwell.senate.gov | legacy | 12.13.18 Cantwell, Colleagues Call for FERC Commissioner McNamee's Recusal from Future Discussions Involving Potential Subsidization of Coal, Nuclear Plants WASHINGTON, D.C. This week, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), the top Democrat on the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, joined 16 of her Senate colleagues in calling for Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) Commissioner Bernard McNamee to recuse himself from any future discussions at the commission involving the potential subsidization of coal and nuclear plants. In the letter, the senators expressed concerns regarding Mr. McNamee's actions in his previous role at the Department of Energy (DOE) in developing and filing a rule to subsidize failing coal and nuclear plants, as well as his recent public comments implying bias against renewable energy technologies. We are concerned about positions you have taken, both while serving as the U.S. Department of Energy's Deputy General Counsel for Energy Policy and in the private sector, the senators wrote. These positions and statements suggest a lack of independence and an inappropriate predisposition on a number of topics likely to be involved in proceedings that will come before you in your new role as a FERC Commissioner. Moving forward, and particularly as FERC considers matters related to grid resilience and reliability, we urge you to remain true to your commitment to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources to be fair, objective, and impartial' and to work with your colleagues to fulfill (FERC's) mission to ensure just and reasonable rates under the law,' the senators continued. With that in mind, we urge you to recuse yourself from any future FERC proceedings where your impartiality could be questioned based upon your past statements, positions, or work on the DOE [Notice of Proposed Rulemaking]. In addition to Senator Cantwell, the letter was also signed by U.S. Senators Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/-cantwells-earthquake-resilience-bill-signed-into-law | Cantwell’s Earthquake Resilience Bill Signed into Law | 2018-12-13 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | WA | Maria Cantwell | C000127 | www.cantwell.senate.gov | legacy | 12.13.18 Cantwell's Earthquake Resilience Bill Signed into Law Legislation helps states prepare for earthquakes, improve early warning systems WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell's (D-WA) earthquake resilience bill has been signed into law by President Donald Trump. Senator Cantwell, the top Democrat on the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, introduced the National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program Reauthorization Act (NEHRP) to modernize safety programs and help states prepare for and respond to earthquakes, as well as provide important resources to improve earthquake early warning, monitoring, and research. Cantwell's legislation is critical to Washington state, which faces the second highest risk of large and damaging earthquakes in the United States. Earthquakes are inevitable so it's critical that we do all we can to prepare. This legislation will help save lives and protect property in the Pacific Northwest and other areas prone to seismic disaster, said Cantwell. Since 1977, NEHRP has enabled earthquake-prone communities to better prepare and protect themselves by minimizing losses through infrastructure improvements and hazard and risk assessments. This legislation reauthorizes NEHRP and also: Improves earthquake early warning systems - Removes outdated language related to earthquake prediction and emphasizes the continued development of earthquake early warning systems through the Advanced National Seismic System. Helps states prioritize earthquake preparedness - Directs the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to implement a grant program to assist states with incorporating earthquakes in their hazard reduction portfolios. Provides ongoing preparedness assessments and long-term planning - Directs the completion of a comprehensive assessment of the nation's earthquake risk reduction progress, as well as areas that require more fun… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://adamsmith.house.gov/press-releases?ID=EF0EC4BD-3EA4-4768-9FCD-DFAB39BBCE60 | Smith Statement on the Farm Bill Conference Report Passage | 2018-12-12 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | WA | Adam Smith | S000510 | adamsmith.house.gov | legacy | 0 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | |||
| https://delbene.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2410 | DelBene, Kilmer Bill to Improve Timber Innovation Passes House, Expected to Become Law | 2018-12-12 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | WA | Suzan DelBene | D000617 | delbene.house.gov | legacy | Today, Representatives Suzan DelBene and Derek Kilmer (D-WA) applauded the passage of important measures in the Timber Innovation Act (H.R. 1380) as part of the 2019 Farm Bill that passed the House of Representatives. DelBene and Kilmer introduced the bipartisan, bicameral legislation which would find new and innovative uses for wood as a building material. The Farm Bill is expected to be signed into law by the president.Following the economic crisis of 2008, rural communities across Washington state saw major job losses throughout the timber industry. Since then, advances have been made showing that tall buildings can be built using cleaner and less expensive materials such as cross-laminated timber (CLT), a hybrid wood panel system that consists of lumber boards that are glued together, and which are stronger and more cost-effective. A greater investment in products like CLT could result in more economic opportunities for rural parts of Washington. Components of the Timber Innovation Act in the Farm Bill include establishing a new performance driven research and development program advancing tall wood building construction. Also included are federal grants to support state, local, tribal, university and private sector education, outreach, and research and development to accelerate the use of wood in tall buildings. DelBene introduced the legislation to spur the use of tall wood building construction those above 85 feet or seven stories through the use of less expensive and cleaner materials like CLT, which will lower our carbon footprint and significantly aid forest health. Washington's First District is home to rural communities with economies dependent on forest products, said DelBene. Timber towns across our region have been in desperate need of new good-paying jobs, and the use of mass timber in tall wood buildings will help forge a path to newfound economic growth. By adding key provisions of the Timber Innovation Act into the Farm Bill, we are encouraging the use of innovative green building materials t… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=CD6E2974-58F8-4A73-867E-31F54B167533 | Senator Murray Cosponsors New Bill to Help Protect Peoples Personal Data Online | 2018-12-12 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | WA | Patty Murray | M001111 | www.murray.senate.gov | legacy | The Data Care Act will stop websites and apps from using personal data against users, protect user information from hacks, and hold companies accountable for misuse Senator Murray: New bill makes clear that the companies we entrust with our personal information will not only be held to a higher standard, they will face penalties if they breach our trust (Washington, D.C.) Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), joined a group of 15 senators in introducing new legislation to protect people's personal data online. The Data Care Act would require websites, apps, and other online providers to take responsible steps to safeguard personal information and stop the misuse of users' data. As we see more and more often, consumer data is being used and abused in ways few people had imagined before. Now, it's on Congress to ensure consumer protections keep pace with this changing reality, said Senator Murray. This legislation being introduced today makes clear that the companies we entrust with our personal information will not only be held to a higher standard, they will face penalties if they breach our trust. Doctors, lawyers, and bankers are legally required to exercise special care to protect their clients and not misuse their information. While online companies also hold personal and sensitive information about the people they serve, they are not required to protect consumers' data. This leaves users in a vulnerable position; they are expected to understand the information they give to providers and how it is being usedan unreasonable expectation for even the most tech-savvy consumer. By establishing a fiduciary duty for online providers, Americans can trust that their online data is protected and used in a responsible way. To that end, the Data Care Act establishes reasonable duties that will require providers to protect user data and will prohibit providers from using user data to their detriment: Duty of Care Must reasonably secure individual identifying data and promptly inform users of data breaches tha… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://dennyheck.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-denny-heck-introduces-bill-to-protect-federal-employees-from-unfair | Rep. Denny Heck introduces bill to protect federal employees from unfair taxes on moving expenses | 2018-12-11 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | WA | Denny Heck | H001064 | dennyheck.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C.Today, Congressman Denny Heck (WA-10) introduced legislation to reverse a portion of the Republican tax scam that designated the moving expenses of federal employees working overseas as taxable income. These moving costs were previously tax exempt, but the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (Public Law No. 115-97) changed any reimbursements of moving costs into taxable income that may force taxpayers to owe thousands of more dollars in taxes to the Internal Revenue Service. The Keeping the Promise to American Public Servants Act would create a tax exclusion for these costs for federal workers, similar to the one in place for servicemembers. If this bill became law, federal workers would not be taxed on overseas moving expenses incurred after December 31, 2017. The Republican tax plan was disastrous for several reasons, and we are just starting to find some of the harmful provisions that snuck their way in, including this irresponsible attempt to make federal employees pay taxes on their overseas moving costs, Heck said. I represent many hard-working federal employees at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, and many who leave their home for honorable public service positions around the world. We should not reverse the commitments we made to them on how their moving expenses are treated by our tax code. If we don't fix this, we could severely damage our ability to recruit and retain skilled federal employees that we need to serve in important international roles. December 22, 2018 will mark one year since the GOP tax bill became law. Since then, the Congressional Budget Office projected that the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act would increase the federal deficit by $1.9 trillion over the next decade. Heck issued a statement following the House passage, pointing out that 36 million American households will have to pay higher taxes despite promises made by President Trump that all Americans will get a tax cut. The full text of H.R. 7254, Keeping the Promise to American Public Servants Act is available on Rep. Denny Heck's website. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-applauds-passage-of-farm-bill-secures-key-wins-for-washington-farmers-and-ranchers | Cantwell Applauds Passage of Farm Bill, Secures Key Wins for Washington Farmers and Ranchers | 2018-12-11 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | WA | Maria Cantwell | C000127 | www.cantwell.senate.gov | legacy | 12.11.18 Cantwell Applauds Passage of Farm Bill, Secures Key Wins for Washington Farmers and Ranchers WASHINGTON, DC U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) applauded final passage of a five-year Farm Bill. The bill includes several key priorities for Washington growers and agriculture producers, including several Cantwell-led priorities to boost production of cross-laminated timber through new uses and innovative uses for wood as a building material, promote pulse crops, and increase export programs for American agriculture products. Passing the Farm Bill is a huge investment in Washington state's agricultural economy. Our crops, including our world leading pulse and specialty crops, will get a boost from hundreds of millions of dollars that will be invested into critical research programs. Timber communities will experience job growth as we promote cross-laminated timber in building construction. And our globally traded agricultural products, like cherries, wheat and apples, which have been harmed by retaliatory tariffs, will see $500 million in new assistance to maintain critical markets and expand opportunities around the globe, said Cantwell. In addition, the bill avoids harmful anti-environment riders as well as rejects harmful benefits cuts and eligibility changes that would take away food and create obstacles for working families. Key Washington priorities included in the 2018 Farm Bill include: Boosts exports for Washington agriculture products: The 2018 Farm Bill expands export opportunities by securing an additional nearly $500 million in permanent funding over the next decade to help farmers find new global markets for their goods. In addition, the bill prioritizes $6 million in a Priority Trade Fund to be used at the discretion of the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture for critical trade programs that have more requests for assistance than available funding, in turn supporting American farmers at no additional cost to the taxpayer. Increases research into pulse crops… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-colleagues-urge-faa-to-implement-and-improve-airport-contract-tower-program | Cantwell, Colleagues Urge FAA to Implement and Improve Airport Contract Tower Program | 2018-12-11 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | WA | Maria Cantwell | C000127 | www.cantwell.senate.gov | legacy | 12.11.18 Cantwell, Colleagues Urge FAA to Implement and Improve Airport Contract Tower Program WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) joined a bipartisan letter of 35 Senators urging the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to implement a provision in this year's FAA spending bill allowing airports that utilize the contract tower program to become eligible for Airport Improvement Program (AIP) grants from the small airport fund. This provision, which was introduced and included in the recent FAA Reauthorization law, will help enhance air traffic safety at small, rural airports. Not only do these contract towers provide an important safety service, but they do it in a very cost-effective manner, the senators wrote.It is Congress's clear intent that tower construction, improvement, and related equipment should be given priority when deciding which projects should receive grants from the small airport fund. The Airport Improvement Program funds airport development and planning projects by paying for critical infrastructure like runways, taxiways, and safety equipment. In September of this year, Pullman-Moscow Regional Airport received an additional $7 million in funding from AIP for the ongoing construction of a new runway. From 2013-2017, Washington state airports received $380 million from these grants. In addition to Senator Cantwell, the letter was signed by Senators Cortez Masto (D-NV), Jerry Moran (R-KS), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Michael Bennet (D-CO), James Risch (R-ID), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Ed Markey (D-MA), Brian Schatz (D-HI), John Cornyn (R-TX), Bill Nelson (D-FL), John Boozman (R-AR), Doug Jones (R-AL), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Gary Peters (MI), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Steve Daines (MT), Marco Rubio (R-FL), Roger Wicker (R-MS), James Inhofe (R-OK), Tom Cotton (R-AR), Tina Smith (D-MN), Patty Murray (D-WA), Jea… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-secures-bipartisan-bill-to-accelerate-the-use-of-cross-laminated-timber-and-green-buildings | Cantwell Secures Bipartisan Bill to Accelerate the Use of Cross-Laminated Timber and Green Buildings | 2018-12-11 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | WA | Maria Cantwell | C000127 | www.cantwell.senate.gov | legacy | 12.11.18 Cantwell Secures Bipartisan Bill to Accelerate the Use of Cross-Laminated Timber and Green Buildings Legislation will help spur economic development through the construction of large scale wood buildings WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, Ranking Member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) secured bipartisan legislation in the Farm Bill that promotes new and innovative uses for wood as a building material. The legislation known as the Timber Innovation Act will accelerate the research and development of wood for use in construction projects such as cross-laminated timber (CLT) focusing on the construction of buildings more than 85 feet in height. In March 2017, Senator Cantwell along with Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), ranking member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry, and several of her Senate and House colleagues, reintroduced the Timber Innovation Act bipartisan, bicameral legislation. The Timber Innovation Act will create new jobs across rural Washington by fostering innovation. The building technologies promoted in our bill, like cross-laminated timber, will bring several wins to Washington, including faster construction of buildings, more eco-friendly buildings, and new timber jobs, said Cantwell. Cross-laminated timber is driving the effort to replace concrete with wood in construction. These buildings are faster to construct, more energy efficient, and comprised completely from renewable materials. Wood products have been an integral part of construction for centuries, but most wood buildings do not exceed three to four stories in height. With recent developments in wood products engineering, alongside other new technologies, it is now possible to expand the use of wood into larger construction projects. Passage of the Timber Innovation Act will incentivize investment through the Nationa… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=2663C621-40D3-44A2-96DB-91EE7993D4EE | Senator Murray Continues Fight Against President Trumps Far-Right Judicial Nominees, Opposes Nominee Tied to Fake Womens Health Clinics | 2018-12-11 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | WA | Patty Murray | M001111 | www.murray.senate.gov | legacy | In a Senate floor speech, Senator Murray shared her opposition to Circuit Court nominee Jonathan Kobes and laid out why his volunteer work for fake women's health centers is disqualifying Kobes volunteered to help defend a law that interfered in the relationship between providers and patients by requiring providers to give fake information to women seeking reproductive care Kobes is the sixth nominee from President Trump to be rated unqualified by the American Bar Association Senator Murray: I'm going to keep standing up, speaking out, and making clear just how harmful President Trump's ideological nominees are ***WATCH SENATOR MURRAY'S FLOOR SPEECH HERE*** (Washington, D.C.) Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) outlined her opposition to Jonathan Kobes' nomination to serve on the Eight Circuit Court of Appeals in a speech on the Senate floor. Senator Murray made clear that not only does Mr. Kobes lack the qualifications for the position, but that his past work with fake women's health centersclinics that seek out women looking for information about their health care needs and reproductive rights, and then use misleading or false propaganda to scare and pressure themis utterly disqualifying. In her speech, Senator Murray highlighted the importance of continuing to stand up for women's health care and rights, particularly in light of Judge Kavanaugh's confirmation earlier this year, and made clear she is going to keep fighting against Republican efforts to ram through President Trump's far-right ideological judges. Key excerpts of Senator Murray's speech: Like many of President Trump's nominees before him, Mr. Kobes lacks almost any real experience to qualify him for a seat on the Eighth Circuit Court. He has little trial experience, little appellate experience, and no record of legal scholarship to speak of. And I'm not the only one concerned by thatthe American Bar Association has also rated him unqualified. That makes Mr. Kobes the sixth judicial nominee from President Trump opposed by his profession… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://delbene.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2409 | DelBene and Sewell Introduce Legislation Establishing Worker Access to Lifelong Learning and Training | 2018-12-10 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | WA | Suzan DelBene | D000617 | delbene.house.gov | legacy | Today, Congresswoman Suzan DelBene and Congresswoman Terri Sewell (D-AL) introduced the Lifelong Learning and Training Account Act. This bill would create a tax-preferred savings account with a generous government match to assist low and moderate-income workers seeking to retrain or upskill over the course of their careers. This legislation was introduced in the Senate by Senator Mark Warner (D-VA).Studies show that in the years ahead, more workers will be forced to learn new skills throughout their careers. The World Economic Forum estimates that by 2020, more than one-third of the core skill sets of most jobs will be skills that are not considered crucial to today's workforce. The Lifelong Learning and Training Account Act would give workers a portable, government-matched savings vehicle for lifelong learning so they can continue to work and provide for their families. As our economy continues to change, workers must have access to the opportunities of tomorrow, said Rep. DelBene. Right now, many hardworking Americans don't have the skillsets to transition into a new job. This legislation will give those folks the tools to retrain and learn new skills so they can keep up with advances in technology and earn a good-paying job. Investing in these workers and helping them further their education will yield benefits that help middle-class families thrive. If we want to grow our economy and create better jobs for American families, we have to invest in our nation's number one asset our workforce, said Rep. Terri Sewell. That means providing our workers with opportunities to learn new skills and transition into competitive jobs in a changing economy. The Lifelong Learning and Training Account Act gives working families the tools they need to save for retraining and continuing education over the course of their careers. For workers in Alabama's 7th District and across the country, today's bill represents a step forward in our fight for better jobs, better pay, and a better future for our families. By 2030, up to one… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-introduces-senate-resolution-recognizing-the-need-to-improve-disability-access-and-infrastructure-in-federally-funded-buildings | Cantwell Introduces Senate Resolution Recognizing the Need to Improve Disability Access & Infrastructure in Federally-Funded Buildings | 2018-12-10 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | WA | Maria Cantwell | C000127 | www.cantwell.senate.gov | legacy | 12.10.18 Cantwell Introduces Senate Resolution Recognizing the Need to Improve Disability Access & Infrastructure in Federally-Funded Buildings 13 Democratic senators join resolution reaffirming support for ensuring people with disabilities have equal access to federal buildings & government services WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) joined 13 Democratic colleagues to introduce a Senate resolution to highlight the need for improvements in disability access and infrastructure in federally-funded buildings. The resolution also reaffirms support for existing laws that work to ensure equal opportunity for individuals with disabilities, including the Americans with Disabilities Act, which former George Herbert Walker Bush signed into law. The United States was founded on the principles of equality and freedom, and such principles require that all individuals, including individuals with disabilities, are able to engage as equal members of society, the resolution reads. Congress will continue working to identify and remove the barriers that prevent all people of the United States, including people with disabilities, from having equal access to the services provided by the Federal Government. The resolution was sponsored by U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Chris Coons (D-DE), Jack Reed (D-RI), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Patty Murray (D-WA), Bob Casey (D-PA), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), and Mazie Hirono (D-HI). The full resolution can be found HERE and below: Title: Recognizing the need to improve physical access to many federally funded facilities for all people of the United States, particularly individuals with disabilities. Whereas the First Amendment to the Constitution of the United States prevents Congress from making any law resp… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=A626256B-1B98-4D06-9CDA-96753BDB56FA | As Comment Period on Proposed Public Charge Rule Change Closes, Senator Murray Demands Trump Administration Withdraw Proposal That Would Harm Immigrant Families | 2018-12-10 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | WA | Patty Murray | M001111 | www.murray.senate.gov | legacy | Senator Murray highlights anecdotes from Washington state in new public comment opposing proposal that would expand definition of public charge, harming public health and well-being Proposed rule change by Department of Homeland Security would place health care and nutrition for millions of families at risk Proposed regulation has caused fear among many immigrants, leading many to forego benefits like food assistance and access to health care they are otherwise eligible for Senator Murray: Proposed rule change that would circumvent congressional authority on immigration law yet another policy authored by the Trump administration that could force immigrants and their families back into the shadows ICYMI: Senator Murray Urges Trump Administration to Rescind Proposed Rule Expanding Definition of Public Charge' MORE HERE (Washington, D.C.) U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), the top Democrat on the Senate health committee, stated her firm opposition to President Trump's proposed public charge rule and demanded the Department of Homeland Security withdraw the proposed regulation in a public comment submitted today to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services during the agency's public comment period. As a voice for Washington state, Senator Murray had previously urged Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen to rescind the Department's proposed rule expanding the definition of public charge, which would require immigration officers to consider an individual's use of public benefits when applying for travel to the U.S. or adjustment of immigration statusa departure from decades of immigration policy that could deter lawful immigrants and their citizen family members from using public benefits they are otherwise eligible to receive. Citing anecdotes from individuals and families in Washington state who have already been adversely affected by the Trump administration's proposed policy shift, in her public comment Senator Murray outlined how the proposed rule change would harm public health and well… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://adamsmith.house.gov/press-releases?ID=250105B7-2832-426F-8AB1-4241743AD507 | Smith Statement on Extended Border Deployment | 2018-12-07 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | WA | Adam Smith | S000510 | adamsmith.house.gov | legacy | 0 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | |||
| https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/-cantwell-cosponsored-legislation-to-improve-response-to-missing-murdered-native-women-and-girls-passes-senate | Cantwell-Cosponsored Legislation to Improve Response to Missing, Murdered Native Women and Girls Passes Senate | 2018-12-07 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | WA | Maria Cantwell | C000127 | www.cantwell.senate.gov | legacy | 12.07.18 Cantwell-Cosponsored Legislation to Improve Response to Missing, Murdered Native Women and Girls Passes Senate According to new report, Seattle leads country in total number of murdered Native women, Tacoma highest number of missing individuals WASHINGTON, D.C. This week, the U.S. Senate passed legislation co-sponsored by U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) to help federal, state, and Tribal law enforcement agencies better respond to disappearances and murders of Indigenous women and girls. The unanimous passage of Savanna's Act, authored by U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp (D-ND), comes only weeks after the Seattle Indian Health Board (SIHB) released a new report that found 506 cases of missing and murdered Native women and girls nationwide. Of the 71 urban areas throughout the United States included in the study, Seattle had the highest total number of missing and murdered individuals, as well as the highest total number of murdered individuals. Tacoma was found to have the highest total number of missing individuals. We can no longer sweep these statistics under the rug, Cantwell said. This problem is more than real it's horrifying. And it must be answered. In an effort to better respond to reports of disappearances or murders of Native women and girls, Savanna's Act would increase coordination efforts across federal departments, Tribes, and states. It would also standardize protocols for responding to reports of missing or murdered Native Americans, improve Tribal access to certain federal crime databases, and require annual reports to Congress on ways to improve the collection of data on these crimes. The legislation is named after Savanna LaFontaine-Greywind, a 22-year-old member of the Spirit Lake Tribe who disappeared on August 19, 2017, while eight months pregnant. Eight days later, her body was found in the Red River north of Fargo, North Dakota. Police determ… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=EEBA71E0-5E48-4705-BEE5-57B00AC8D6A8 | TROOPS AT SOUTHERN U.S. BORDER: Senator Murray and Colleagues Slam Trump Administrations Decision to Extend Deployment Through January, Urge Secretary Mattis to Reverse Course Immediately | 2018-12-07 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | WA | Patty Murray | M001111 | www.murray.senate.gov | legacy | Senators: Trump administration's lack of transparency on troop deployment should worry all those who are invested in the readiness of our military, its professional use, and the need to keep a bright-line distinction between military and law enforcement ICYMI: Senators Urge Defense Secretary Mattis to End Deployment, Send U.S. Troops Home for Thanksgiving Holiday MORE HERE Washington, D.C. Led by U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), today a group of senators sent a letter to Department of Defense Secretary Jim Mattis, urging the Department to reconsider its decision to extend the deployment of active duty servicemembers currently stationed at the U.S. southern border. Joined by Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Kamala Harris (D-CA), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Edward Markey (D-MA), and Robert Menendez (D-NJ), the letter follows Senators Murray and Schatz's previous request to Secretary Mattis to end the deployment of U.S. troops at the border and allow them to return to their home base for the holidays, as the Trump administration has thus far failed to establish that asylum seekers traveling to the southern U.S. border pose a threat to national security. In their letter, the senators raised several questions and concerns regarding the deployment that the White House still has not answered, and urged the Secretaryabsent justification and substantial transparencyto deny any extension of orders for troops on the southern U.S. border. Many of us have previously detailed our concern with this deployment and use of active duty forces. The administration's rationale for deploying troops was to evoke fear and xenophobia and does not serve a genuine national security purpose. Continuing to rely on active duty troops militarizes the border and normalizes the deployment of active duty forces domestically a dangerous precedent for any democracy, wrote the senators in the letter. Read the full lett… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/-cantwell-bipartisan-group-of-senators-call-on-secretary-perry-to-stop-unnecessary-delays-over-weatherization-assistance-program-funding | Cantwell, Bipartisan Group of Senators Call on Secretary Perry to Stop Unnecessary Delays over Weatherization Assistance Program Funding | 2018-12-06 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | WA | Maria Cantwell | C000127 | www.cantwell.senate.gov | legacy | 12.06.18 Cantwell, Bipartisan Group of Senators Call on Secretary Perry to Stop Unnecessary Delays over Weatherization Assistance Program Funding WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) joined a bipartisan group of colleagues in sending a letter to U.S. Energy Secretary Rick Perry, calling on him to stop unnecessarily delaying energy assistance to states from the Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP), which helps low-income households reduce their energy bills to free up limited financial resources for other essentials, such as food and medicine. By delaying the funding, the administration will make it more difficult to get started with weatherization work during the prime weather window for construction, effectively forcing low-income families to spend more of their hard-earned dollars on energy bills. The letter comes after the Department of Energy (DOE) missed an important deadline to deliver information concerning state allocations to WAP grantees. We have long supported this key energy efficiency program and urge the Department to uphold Congress' direction to adhere to a timely process for distribution of both funds and guidance, the senators wrote. We urge DOE to release the FY 2019 WAP guidance and state allocations no later than December 7, 2018, in order to avoid unnecessary delays in services to low-income families and seniors who rely on the energy savings from this program. In their letter, the senators highlighted the $6 million increase in funding for WAP provided by Congress through the annual appropriations bill that was signed into law earlier this fall, which directed the DOE to distribute the funds in a timely manner. The funding bill included provisions directing DOE to distribute grant awards to grantees no later than 60 days after funds are appropriated by Congress, in an effort to prevent undue delays in distributing awards to state and local partners that implement energy initiatives. For more than 40 years, the WAP has enabled famil… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-murray-colleagues-urge-department-of-justice-to-investigate-decision-making-process-for-epstein-case | Cantwell, Murray, Colleagues Urge Department of Justice to Investigate Decision-Making Process for Epstein Case | 2018-12-06 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | WA | Maria Cantwell | C000127 | www.cantwell.senate.gov | legacy | 12.06.18 Cantwell, Murray, Colleagues Urge Department of Justice to Investigate Decision-Making Process for Epstein Case According to a new Miami Herald investigation, Jeffrey Epstein was given the deal of a lifetime in 2007 when he and then-U.S. Attorney Alexander Acosta entered a non-prosecution agreement. WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and Patty Murray (D-WA), along with 14 of their Senate colleagues, sent a letter to the Department of Justice (DOJ) Inspector General requesting an investigation into the DOJ's decision-making process when then-U.S. Attorney Alexander Acosta entered into a non-prosecution agreement with accused serial sexual abuser Jeffrey Epstein. Questions about Acosta's involvement in the Epstein case were raised during his nomination process for Secretary of Labor; the call for investigations from the DOJ Inspector General comes after new information was brought to light in reporting on the case by the Miami Herald. We are deeply concerned by Mr. Epstein's horrific, serial abuse of children and new revelations about the process by which he was given, to quote the Herald, the deal of a lifetime,' the Senators wrote. It is essential that an independent investigatory office conduct an investigation to determine whether DOJ policies and procedures were followed in this matter. In addition to the request for an independent investigation, the Senators also voiced concern that the plea bargain Acosta struck with Epsteinwhich was kept secret from the victimsviolated the Crime Victims' Rights Act, which provides victims with important protections, including the right to be informed of any plea agreement. Epstein was accused of coercing underage girls into sex acts in his home in Florida and of trafficking dozens of young girls, often from overseas. The non-prosecution agreement required Epstein to only serve 13 months in county prison… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-opposes-ferc-nominee-bernard-mcnamee-on-the-senate-floor | Cantwell Opposes FERC Nominee Bernard McNamee On The Senate Floor | 2018-12-06 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | WA | Maria Cantwell | C000127 | www.cantwell.senate.gov | legacy | 12.06.18 Cantwell Opposes FERC Nominee Bernard McNamee On The Senate Floor Washington, D.C. Today, Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.) took to the Senate floor to voice opposition to the Trump administration's nominee for the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Bernard McNamee. It's important that the Commission remain independent and impartial because it is a quasi-judicial roleThey need to be impartial making decisions about important energy projects that get built around the United States, said Senator Cantwell. I believe that this nominee, Mr. McNamee, does not meet the standard. I believe that he is too ideologically motivated to continue on what needs to be a fact-based decision-making model on outcomes that affect people's energy rates, said Senator Cantwell. The Commission has to police and regulate energy markets without regard to fuel source, market power or having a political lens. "Their job is not to pick winners and losers in the market. Their job is to determine whether there will be just and reasonable rates for the individual consumers in those markets," said Cantwell. "It's their job to make sure that there aren't excessive prices and that there is true competition in the market, not to favor a high-cost fuel source like coal and try to protect it from other fuel sources that might be more economical for consumers." Trying to prop up uneconomical coal plants for the sake of the reliability of the grid is a fake rationale that the administration tried to use, and it would have impacted the free market and consumers, said Senator Cantwell. Mr. McNamee's words reveal a very strong bias in favor of fossil fuels against renewable energy, said Senator Cantwell. One of the most striking is when he said, the green energy movement is always talking about more government control because it's the constant battle between liberty and tyranny.' And then to say that his son should, just deny climate science' even… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-cantwell-murray-applaud-major-federal-investment-in-geiger-boulevard-infrastructure-project | Senators Cantwell, Murray Applaud Major Federal Investment in Geiger Boulevard Infrastructure Project | 2018-12-06 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | WA | Maria Cantwell | C000127 | www.cantwell.senate.gov | legacy | 12.06.18 Senators Cantwell, Murray Applaud Major Federal Investment in Geiger Boulevard Infrastructure Project Championed by Senators Cantwell and Murray, $14.3 million federal award will support critical improvements to Spokane's Geiger Boulevard WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee, and Patty Murray (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced a significant federal award to make vital infrastructure improvements to Spokane's Geiger Boulevard. The $14.3 million competitive grant was awarded through the U.S. Department of Transportation's BUILD programformerly known as TIGERand will support several key upgrades to the area that will improve freight and vehicle travel times, increase safety, and spur continued economic development in the greater Spokane region. Overhauling the transportation infrastructure at Geiger Boulevard paves the way to bring nearly 3,000 new jobs and over 600 new housing units in Spokane County. When complete, this project will help businesses throughout the region grow, boost the economy, and create new jobs,said Senator Cantwell. This is a major win for the greater Spokane region. As local infrastructure needs evolve with Spokane's steady growth, federal investments in projects like Geiger Boulevard will upgrade our roads and prepare our communities for the future. I'm proud to see our work in Congress pay off for Spokane-area residents and business, said Senator Murray. In addition, today Senators Cantwell and Murray also announced an additional multi-million dollar BUILD grant that will support key improvements to the Palouse River and Coulee City (PCC) Rail System. More information on the federal award is available HERE. BACKGROUND: Adjacent to I-90 and the Spokane International Airport, the Geiger Boulevard area inc… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/significant-federal-investment-in-critical-eastern-washington-rail-system | Senators Cantwell, Murray Announce Significant Federal Investment in Critical Eastern Washington Rail System | 2018-12-06 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | WA | Maria Cantwell | C000127 | www.cantwell.senate.gov | legacy | 12.06.18 Senators Cantwell, Murray Announce Significant Federal Investment in Critical Eastern Washington Rail System Championed by Senators Cantwell and Murray, new federal award will support improvements to PCC Rail System, WA's longest short-line freight rail system WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee, and Patty Murray (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced a major new federal investment in the Palouse River and Coulee City (PCC) Rail System. Awarded through the U.S. Department of Transportation'sBUILDprogram (formerly known as TIGER), the grant, totaling more than $5.6 million, was awarded to the Washington State Department of Transportation's (WSDOT) Rural Rail Rehabilitation project, and will support critical improvements to key sections of the 298-mile rail systemincluding replacing or rehabilitating 10 bridges, replacing 4.6 miles of rail, and rehabilitating 20.8 miles of track. The repairs and upgrades funded by this grant will help Washington's farmers get their world renowned products to global markets quickly and efficiently,said Senator Cantwell. This major investment will help ensure Eastern Washington's agricultural community has access to efficient and reliable transportation to our state's ports and other markets, allowing them to remain competitive while also supporting local jobs and enhancing economic development in our rural communities,said Senator Murray.This is great news for Eastern Washington, and I will continue working in Congress to champion this investment program and make sure vital projects like improving the PCC rail system remain a top priority in the other Washington. Agriculture is a vital economic driver in eastern Washington and a viable rail system to transport their products allows growers to remain comp… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=2D3CE0B1-7102-401E-8054-2EB8B536CF6A | SPOKANE: Senators Murray, Cantwell Applaud Major Federal Investment in Geiger Boulevard Infrastructure Project | 2018-12-06 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | WA | Patty Murray | M001111 | www.murray.senate.gov | legacy | Championed by Senators Murray and Cantwell, $14.3 million federal award will support critical improvements to Spokane's Geiger Boulevard New Geiger Boulevard development could support more than 3,200 new jobs and over 1,300 new residents Grant awarded through Department of Transportation's BUILD programformerly known as TIGER, and created by Senator Murray in 2009 WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, and Maria Cantwell (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee, announced a significant federal award to make vital infrastructure improvements to Spokane's Geiger Boulevard. The $14.3 million competitive grant was awarded through the U.S. Department of Transportation's BUILD programformerly known as TIGERand will support several key upgrades to the area that will improve freight and vehicle travel times, increase safety, and spur continued economic development in the greater Spokane region. This is a major win for the greater Spokane region. As local infrastructure needs evolve with Spokane's steady growth, federal investments in projects like Geiger Boulevard will upgrade our roads and prepare our communities for the future. I'm proud to see our work in Congress pay off for Spokane-area residents and business, said Senator Murray. Overhauling the transportation infrastructure at Geiger Boulevard paves the way to bring nearly 3,000 new jobs and over 600 new housing units in Spokane County. When complete, this project will help businesses throughout the region grow, boost the economy, and create new jobs, said Senator Cantwell. In addition, today Senators Murray and Cantwell also announced an additional multi-million dollar BUILD grant that will support key improvements to the Palouse River and Coulee City (PCC) Rail System. More information on the federal award is available HERE. BACKGROUND: Adjacent to I-90 and the Spokane International Airport, the Geiger Boulevard area includes more th… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=D39DE28D-E03E-4A94-8D2B-207C4A9550EA | TRANSPORTATION: Senators Murray, Cantwell Announce Significant Federal Investment in Critical Eastern Washington Rail System | 2018-12-06 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | WA | Patty Murray | M001111 | www.murray.senate.gov | legacy | Championed by Senators Murray and Cantwell, new federal award will support improvements to PCC Rail System, WA's longest short-line freight rail system Serving 5 Eastern Washington counties, rail system upgrades would improve reliability, reduce maintenance, and increase safety Grant awarded through Department of Transportation's BUILD programformerly known as TIGER, created by Senator Murray in 2009 WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, and Maria Cantwell (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee, today announced a major new federal investment in the Palouse River and Coulee City (PCC) Rail System. Awarded through the U.S. Department of Transportation's BUILD program (formerly known as TIGER), the grant, totaling more than $5.6 million, was awarded to the Washington State Department of Transportation's (WSDOT) Rural Rail Rehabilitation project, and will support critical improvements to key sections of the 298-mile rail systemincluding replacing or rehabilitating 10 bridges, replacing 4.6 miles of rail, and rehabilitating 20.8 miles of track. This major investment will help ensure Eastern Washington's agricultural community has access to efficient and reliable transportation to our state's ports and other markets, allowing them to remain competitive while also supporting local jobs and enhancing economic development in our rural communities, said Senator Murray. This is great news for Eastern Washington, and I will continue working in Congress to champion this investment program and make sure vital projects like improving the PCC rail system remain a top priority in the other Washington. The repairs and upgrades funded by this grant will help Washington's farmers get their world renowned products to global markets quickly and efficiently, said Senator Cantwell. Agriculture is a vital economic driver in eastern Washington and a viable rail system to transport their products allows growers to rema… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://larsen.house.gov/press-release/larsen-fix-dakota-creek-industries-signed-law | Larsen Fix for Dakota Creek Industries Signed into Law | 2018-12-05 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | WA | Rick Larsen | L000560 | larsen.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. Rep. Rick Larsen (WA-02) today applauded the signing of the Frank LoBiondo Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2018, which will save hundreds of jobs at Dakota Creek Industries (DCI) in Anacortes. Yesterday, I had the chance to meet with the hard-working women and men of Dakota Creek Industries to celebrate the passage of the Coast Guard Authorization Act and to recognize the importance of shipbuilding to Washington state's economy, said Larsen. The employees at Dakota Creek support an industry that creates good jobs, strengthens national defense, fosters innovation and contributes to the maritime economy in Washington state and Alaska. I am proud to stand with the women and men of Dakota Creek to finally secure a Jones Act solution. Larsen has been a strong advocate for Dakota Creek Industries. The Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2018 includes a Jones Act waiver for the 264-foot America's Finest vessel, subject to Coast Guard review, which will provide higher performance and increased safety for the crew. The Jones Act places requirements on the amount of foreign-made steel allowed in construction of fishing vessels in an effort to promote U.S.-built and flagged vessels. Larsen has successfully included the waiver for DCI twice in related House-passed legislation. I appreciate the coordination with Senator Cantwell, Senator Sullivan and Rep. Don Young as we have worked non-stop to find avenues to save hundreds of jobs on the line, said Larsen. The U.S. Coast Guard will now undertake a 30-day review of whether the shipyard or purchaser knew components used in the manufacturing of the vessel violated Jones Act requirements. This has been a very difficult and stressful two years for Dakota Creek, and the signing of this bill is a huge relief for all our employees. We now can get back to work serving our valued customers with the support of our many suppliers throughout the region. We wish to express our sincere gratitude to Senator Maria Cantwell, Senator Dan Sullivan and Congressman Don Young for th… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=E6AF07D0-7A37-4C3C-806F-539CB0795067 | Senator Murray Statement on the Funeral of President George H.W. Bush | 2018-12-05 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | WA | Patty Murray | M001111 | www.murray.senate.gov | legacy | (Washington, D.C.) Today, after attending the state funeral for former U.S. President George Herbert Walker Bush, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) released the following statement: From his courageous sacrifice as a Navy pilot during World War II, to his landmark advocacy for people with disabilities, to his dedication to giving back through his Points of Light Foundation, President Bush lived his life as a testament to the enduring values of public service and putting your country before yourself. As people in Washington state and around the globe mourn the passing of our nation's former leaderone of the last of our greatest generation'I too send my thoughts and condolences to the Bush family and urge all of us to aspire to the dignity, civility, and service that President Bush modeled throughout his long, remarkable life. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://adamsmith.house.gov/press-releases?ID=8DB7C3D0-DF5E-4F51-A053-F3FCED7AB04C | Smith Statement on Trump INF Treaty Decision | 2018-12-04 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | WA | Adam Smith | S000510 | adamsmith.house.gov | legacy | 0 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | |||
| https://jayapal.house.gov/media/press-releases/jayapal-announces-gautam-raghavan-chief-staff | Jayapal Announces Gautam Raghavan As Chief of Staff | 2018-12-03 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | WA | Pramila Jayapal | J000298 | jayapal.house.gov | legacy | Seattle, WA- Today, Representative Pramila Jayapal (WA-07) announced Gautam Raghavan as her new Chief of Staff. Raghavan currently serves as Executive Director of the Indian American Impact Project & Fund and as an advisor to the Biden Foundation. He previously served as Vice President of Policy for the Gill Foundation, the nation's oldest funder of LGBTQ Civil Rights Advocacy. From 2011 to 2014, Raghavan served as President Barack Obama's liaison to the LGBTQ community as well as the Asian American & Pacific Islander community, and from 2009 to 2011, as Acting White House Liaison for the U.S. Department of Defense and as Outreach Lead for the Pentagon's Don't Ask, Don't Tell Working Group. A first-generation immigrant, Raghavan was born in India, raised in the Seattle area, and graduated from Stanford University. Since joining Congress, Representative Jayapal quickly established herself as a bold, unapologetic, national voice for progressive values. With so much at stake, I can think of no better place to fight for a more just, fair, and prosperous future than at her side, said Raghavan. I'm honored to have the opportunity to support her leadership and work with her highly capable and passionate team. My goals in the 116th Congress will continue to be stand for a bold, progressive agenda that ensures opportunity. The progressive movement has never been stronger, and I look forward to translating that into real wins for working people, women, immigrants, those living in poverty and the most marginalized, said Rep. Jayapal. I'm thrilled to have Gautam, a fellow Seattleite, joining our exceptional team. I know his experience and leadership will continue guiding our office as we fight for real progressive change in Washington and across our country in hopes of creating a fairer and more just country. I also want to thank Carmen Gallus Frias for her tremendous service as my Chief in my first term. She has been a true asset for me and the people of the 7th District. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://dennyheck.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/bankshot-the-one-banking-bill-congress-might-actually-pass-next-term | Bankshot: The one banking bill Congress might actually pass next term | 2018-12-02 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | WA | Denny Heck | H001064 | dennyheck.house.gov | legacy | Conventional wisdom says that it's going to be a tall order to pass banking legislation next term, but there just might be a key exception. One measure to watch will be a legislative fix for banks with customers in the legal marijuana business. While success is certainly not guaranteed, a narrow safe harbor for financial institutions in states where cannabis is now permitted is beginning to draw wide support from industry officials as well as from lawmakers on both sides of the aisle. As chatter picks up, such a provision could find its way to passage in what may be an otherwise deadlocked term. As long as this issue is framed as a targeted and technical fix intended to clarify states' rights, I think it has a path to passage in the next Congress, said Isaac Boltansky, a policy analyst at Compass Point Research & Trading, who puts the odds of seeing a targeted safe harbor approved at around 75%. Of course, there will still be hurdles. With Congress divided next term, Republicans and Democrats will need to come to an agreement on what exactly a pot banking fix might entail and how comprehensive a potential carve-out should be. Should legislation, for example, address the steep compliance costs banks face in this market due to requirements that they file suspicious activity reports for state-licensed businesses? It's hard to think of an issue that ought to be an easier, bipartisan slam dunk than cannabis banking, but there are a couple of significant obstacles, said Aaron Klein, a fellow at the Brookings Institution. Klein noted, for example, that if the political debate turns from addressing specific business concerns to a broader fight over the legality of pot at the federal level, that's likely to make a targeted fix significantly more difficult. It's also unclear whether the vocal minority of mostly Republican lawmakers who strongly oppose marijuana legalization will block more targeted efforts from passage. Lawmakers on the banking committees in both chambers will also be busy with impending deadlines … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-statement-on-the-passing-of-president-george-hw-bush | Cantwell Statement on the Passing of President George H.W. Bush | 2018-12-01 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Democrat | House | WA | Maria Cantwell | C000127 | www.cantwell.senate.gov | legacy | 12.01.18 Cantwell Statement on the Passing of President George H.W. Bush Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) released the following statement on the passing of President George Herbert Walker Bush: From his service in World War II to his work navigating the end of the Cold War, President George H.W. Bush dedicated more than 70 years of his life to our country and to trying to make the world a better place. Countless Americans have been inspired by his leadership, grace, and kindness. My thoughts are with the entire Bush family. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://jayapal.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressional-progressive-caucus-leaders-call-no-border-wall-funding-humane | Congressional Progressive Caucus Leaders Call for No Border Wall Funding, Humane Immigration System in Government Funding | 2018-11-30 | 2018 | 2018-11 | Democrat | House | WA | Pramila Jayapal | J000298 | jayapal.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, DC Today, U.S. Representatives Mark Pocan (WI-02) and Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Co-Chairs of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, released the following statement regarding ongoing discussions about Congress' December 7th deadline to fund the government. Congress cannot continue to stand by while President Trump relentlessly attacks immigrant communities. As negotiations continue over the FY19 DHS spending bill, we urge House and Senate Democratic leadership to hold strong in providing zero funding for Trump's ill-conceived border wall, reducing funding for detention beds, and curbing inhumane border and interior enforcement. Members of the Congressional Progressive Caucus have been unwavering in our call for a fair immigration process that upholds the dignity of all individuals. We will continue to oppose policies and funding levels that move us away from this goal and perpetuate harm against immigrant families. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=17177FD4-1C5F-4B68-9F75-9DA922401F6F | Following Debacle at VA to Process Delayed G.I. Bill Benefits, Senator Murray Demands Answers and Urgent Action from Trump Administration to Help Veterans Seeking Relief | 2018-11-30 | 2018 | 2018-11 | Democrat | House | WA | Patty Murray | M001111 | www.murray.senate.gov | legacy | In two new letters today to VA Secretary Wilkie and VA Inspector General Missal, Senator Murray demands internal investigation into VA's withholding Post 9/11 G.I. Bill benefits and clarification on VA's next steps to reimburse veterans' missed payments Hundreds of thousands of veterans receiving G.I. Bill benefits are believed to have been impacted by VA's processing delays Actions follow Senator Murray's previous request for VA to immediately address it's severe backlog of living stipend and tuition payments for veterans receiving Forever G.I. Bill benefits Senator Murray: I will not ease up until every last veteran has the correct G.I. Bill payment that they earned in their service to our country ICYMIfrom November 14th: As Veterans Seek Relief from Mounting Housing and Education Expenses, Senator Murray Calls For Increased Transparency and Action at VA to Process Delayed G.I. Bill Benefits MORE HERE WA's Kitsap Sun: Olympic College students feeling the pinch from delayed G.I. Bill benefit payments LINK (Washington, D.C.) As a follow-up to her previous demands for the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to immediately process delayed G.I. Bill benefits for veterans, today U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), top Democrat on the Senate education committee and a senior member of the Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee, took new action to address the Trump administration's lack of urgency and transparency to resolve this crisis and hold officials accountable for processing veterans' delayed payments and implementing the bill according to Congress' intentions. Senator Murray's latest actions come after her efforts earlier this month urging VA to take immediate action to address the severe backlog of living stipend and tuition payments for veterans receiving Forever G.I. Bill benefits. The VA needs to fix this problem, and fast. It's absolutely unacceptable to put the burden of delayed benefits onto the backs of the very men and women who served our country, so I'm demanding information from the VA's watchdog… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://adamsmith.house.gov/press-releases?ID=2FA992EE-DB80-4900-BD4E-DDD6F29FA65F | Smith, Murray, Cantwell and Jayapal Call for Answers and Transparency in Death of Asylum Seeker at Northwest Detention Center | 2018-11-29 | 2018 | 2018-11 | Democrat | House | WA | Adam Smith | S000510 | adamsmith.house.gov | legacy | 0 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | |||
| https://adamsmith.house.gov/press-releases?ID=62DC8EC0-7AE7-4ADA-A772-CBCA849150F6 | Smith, Cantwell, Murray and Jayapal Request Inspector General Investigations into Conditions at the NWDC | 2018-11-29 | 2018 | 2018-11 | Democrat | House | WA | Adam Smith | S000510 | adamsmith.house.gov | legacy | 0 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | |||
| https://jayapal.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressional-progressive-caucus-elects-leadership-116th-congress | Congressional Progressive Caucus Elects Leadership for the 116th Congress | 2018-11-29 | 2018 | 2018-11 | Democrat | House | WA | Pramila Jayapal | J000298 | jayapal.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, DC Today, members of the Congressional Progressive Caucus (CPC) chose their leadership for the 116th Congress and re-elected Rep. Mark Pocan (WI-02) and elected Rep. Pramila Jayapal (WA-07) as Co-Chairs. Additionally, the CPC elected Rep. Ro Khanna (CA-17) as First-Vice Chair. Over the last two years, we've made remarkable progress in the fight to advance progressive ideas in Congress and I'm extremely grateful and excited to be re-elected as Co-Chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus for another two-year term. With the Caucus set to have its greatest membership in its history more than 90 Representatives we can change the way Washington works and ensure that Congress writes legislation for every American not just corporations, special interests, millionaires, and billionaires, said Rep. Pocan. The American people sent a Blue Wave powered by progressives to Capitol Hill and we fully intend to respect the electorate's decision by presenting a bold, forward-looking agenda. I'm excited to welcome Rep. Jayapal as a Co-Chair of the Caucus and with progressives in Democratic leadership, we will continue to advance our ideas and shape policies that make a lasting and positive difference on the lives of the American people. I am incredibly humbled and honored to be elected Co-Chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus. The CPC is filled with incredible, dynamic, trusted leaders and I look forward to working hand in hand to ensure the leadership of each one of our membersincluding the newest membersis highlighted and shines through, said Rep. Jayapal. I am committed to ensuring our caucus is as bold and strategic as possible, and that our members have the resources and the ability to stand up for the chance for every American to have real opportunity, to take on the largest corporations and special interests who have corrupted our democracy and to bring real power to workers, women, immigrants and all of those most vulnerable and marginalized.The progressive movement is the strongest it has ever… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://jayapal.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-jayapal-murray-and-cantwell-call-answers-and-transparency-death-asylum | Smith, Jayapal, Murray, and Cantwell Call for Answers and Transparency in Death of Asylum Seeker at Northwest Detention Center | 2018-11-29 | 2018 | 2018-11 | Democrat | House | WA | Pramila Jayapal | J000298 | jayapal.house.gov | legacy | Washington, DC This week, Congressman Adam Smith (WA-09) led a letter with Senators Patty Murray (D-WA), Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal (WA-07) to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) demanding answers surrounding the recent death of Mergensana Amar, a Russian asylum seeker detained in the custody of ICE at the Northwest Detention Center in Tacoma, Washington. In the letter, the lawmakers call for transparency and a thorough understanding of the circumstances and actions taken leading up to Mr. Amar's death. The Members write in part, The federal government has a solemn duty to care for and protect those within its custody, including individuals detained by ICE We request that you provide information to our offices regarding the circumstances surrounding the treatment and care for Mr. Amar, and what improvements you will make to avoid other similar tragedies in the future. The full text of the letter can be found below and here. Acting Director Ronald D. Vitiello U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Department of Homeland Security 500 12th Street SW Washington, D.C. 20536 Dear Acting Director Vitiello: We are deeply saddened by the recent death of Mergensana Amar, a Russian asylum seeker detained in the custody of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) at the Northwest Detention Center in Tacoma, Washington. The federal government has a solemn duty to care for and protect those within its custody, including individuals detained by ICE. News of Mr. Amar's death follows a report condemning conditions in ICE's Adelanto Detention Center in California.[1] The report recounts nooses found hanging in cells, lack of adequate mental health services, and access to medical care at the facility.[2] In light of this report, we are particularly alarmed by tragic news of Mr. Amar's suicide, and are concerned with ICE practice and protocol for preventing such deaths moving forward. We request that you provide information to our offices regarding the circumstances surrounding… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/schatz-kilmer-demand-all-underpaid-veterans-be-reimbursed | SCHATZ, KILMER DEMAND ALL UNDERPAID VETERANS BE REIMBURSED | 2018-11-29 | 2018 | 2018-11 | Democrat | House | WA | Derek Kilmer | K000381 | kilmer.house.gov | legacy | 11.29.18 SCHATZ, KILMER DEMAND ALL UNDERPAID VETERANS BE REIMBURSED Lawmakers To Call for IG Investigation Into Mismanagement of VA Payments WASHINGTON Today, following a new report that the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) will not reimburse veterans who were paid less than they were owed due to technical errors, U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), top Democrat on the Senate Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Subcommittee, and U.S. Representative Derek Kilmer (D-Wash.) Vice Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Committee, are demanding that the VA pay back the estimated 360,000 veterans impacted by the error. The VA's current position is that the only way to fix this is to freeze current payments. That is Orwellian in its incompetence, and it is offensive in the real harm that it does to veterans who put their lives on the line for our country, said Senator Schatz. Veterans have already fought for our country, they should never have to fight the VA to get the benefits they earned and deserve. Rep. Derek Kilmer said. The VA had a year to plan the rollout of the Forever GI Bill's housing stipend changes, and the fact that it has been bungled so badly is unworthy of the service veterans have provided the nation. The VA needs to repay veterans every cent they're owed immediately. The VA's position is unacceptable and deeply ignorant of the financial burden that too many of our veterans and their families now face because of its gross mismanagement. We are not asking the VA to create more problems for itself by expediting a fix for processing housing stipends that could cause further delays or missed payments. But we are demanding that the VA do right by our veterans, the lawmakers wrote. There is no question the government should provide retroactive payments to these veterans; we must. The question is how we will restore our veterans' confidence in the VA's ability to continue to deliver the care and benefits that they earned and we promised them. That is… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-smith-murray-and-jayapal-call-for-answers-and-transparency-in-death-of-asylum-seeker-at-northwest-detention-center | Cantwell, Smith, Murray, and Jayapal Call for Answers and Transparency in Death of Asylum Seeker at Northwest Detention Center | 2018-11-29 | 2018 | 2018-11 | Democrat | House | WA | Maria Cantwell | C000127 | www.cantwell.senate.gov | legacy | 11.29.18 Cantwell, Smith, Murray, and Jayapal Call for Answers and Transparency in Death of Asylum Seeker at Northwest Detention Center Washington, DC This week, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Congressman Adam Smith (WA-09), U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), and Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal (WA-07) sent a letter to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) demanding answers surrounding the recent death of Mergensana Amar, a Russian asylum seeker detained in the custody of ICE at the Northwest Detention Center in Tacoma, Washington. In the letter, the lawmakers called for transparency and a thorough understanding of the circumstances and actions taken leading up to Mr. Amar's death. The Members wrote in part, The federal government has a solemn duty to care for and protect those within its custody, including individuals detained by ICE We request that you provide information to our offices regarding the circumstances surrounding the treatment and care for Mr. Amar, and what improvements you will make to avoid other similar tragedies in the future. The full text of the letter can be found below and here. Dear Acting Director Vitiello: We are deeply saddened by the recent death of Mergensana Amar, a Russian asylum seeker detained in the custody of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) at the Northwest Detention Center in Tacoma, Washington. The federal government has a solemn duty to care for and protect those within its custody, including individuals detained by ICE. News of Mr. Amar's death follows a report condemning conditions in ICE's Adelanto Detention Center in California. The report recounts nooses found hanging in cells, lack of adequate mental health services, and access to medical care at the facility.In light of this report, we are particularly alarmed by tragic news of Mr. Amar's suicide, and are concerned with ICE practice and protocol for preventing such deaths moving forward. We request that you provide information to our offices regarding t… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-smith-murray-and-jayapal-request-inspector-general-investigations-into-conditions-at-the-nwdc | Cantwell, Smith, Murray, and Jayapal Request Inspector General Investigations into Conditions at the NWDC | 2018-11-29 | 2018 | 2018-11 | Democrat | House | WA | Maria Cantwell | C000127 | www.cantwell.senate.gov | legacy | 11.29.18 Cantwell, Smith, Murray, and Jayapal Request Inspector General Investigations into Conditions at the NWDC Washington, DC Following the death of Mergansana Amar, a Russian asylum seeker detained in the custody of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement at the Northwest Detention Center (NWDC) in Tacoma, Washington, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Congressman Adam Smith (WA-09), Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), and Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal (WA-07) sent a letter to the Department of Homeland Security Office of Inspector General requesting a comprehensive inspection and review of the conditions at the NWDC and an investigation into the death of Mr. Amar. The Members write in part, There is a clear pattern that indicates a severe lack of oversight and repeated failures to make sufficient improvements by ICE and private contractors operating detention facilities It's vital that we understand what happened and what improvements must be made to address safety and health risks that could otherwise lead to similar tragic incidents in the future. The full text of the letter can be found below and here. Dear Acting Inspector General Kelly: We write to urge the Office of Inspector General (OIG) to conduct a thorough investigation of the death of Mergansana Amar, a Russian asylum seeker detained in the custody of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) at the Northwest Detention Center (NWDC) in Tacoma, Washington. In addition, we urge you to conduct a comprehensive inspection and review of the conditions at the NWDC, including potential retaliation against detainee whistleblowers. The Northwest Detention Center is operated by the GEO Group, which is the same private contractor that operates the Adelanto ICE Processing Center in California. As you are aware, Adelanto was the subject of a recent report from your office which condemned conditions at the facility. The Management Alert, issued by the OIG on September 27, 2018, recounts conditions that pose signific… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/in-final-weeks-of-115th-congress-cantwell-bipartisan-colleagues-rally-to-save-lwcf-call-on-congress-to-pass-lwcf-during-lame-duck | In Final Weeks of 115th Congress, Cantwell, Bipartisan Colleagues Rally to Save LWCF, Call on Congress to Pass LWCF during Lame Duck | 2018-11-29 | 2018 | 2018-11 | Democrat | House | WA | Maria Cantwell | C000127 | www.cantwell.senate.gov | legacy | 11.29.18 In Final Weeks of 115th Congress, Cantwell, Bipartisan Colleagues Rally to Save LWCF, Call on Congress to Pass LWCF during Lame Duck Cantwell: We owe it to our veterans, to those in our community who recreate on public lands, who hunt, fish, and go outdoors to have the peace of mind to know that we are not going to leave Washington, D.C., with such an important lands bill hanging in the balance. WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), the top Democrat on the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, and a bipartisan congressional Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) coalition called on Congress to vote on and pass permanent reauthorization and mandatory funding of the LWCF by the end of the year. The fact that we give people access to our public lands helps grow jobs, give us recreational opportunities and gives our communities a peace of mind and wholeness that is so important in the United States of America, said Senator Cantwell. The Land and Water Conservation Fund expired on September 30th, marking the second time in three years that Congress failed to reauthorize and fund the program. Senator Cantwell's LWCF legislation (S.569), which cleared committee in October with bipartisan support, would for the first time ensure dedicated, mandatory annual funding for the LWCF. We are in the lame duck, and we need to get the LWCF permanently reauthorized and make the down payment for the future of our public lands. Nothing could be more important on our agenda for this lame duck session, said Cantwell. It's time that Congress does not go into 2019 with a big question mark around such an important asset in growing our economy. If nothing else, we owe it to our veterans, to those in our community who recreate on public lands, who hunt, fish and go outdoors to have the peace of mind to know that we are not going to leave Washington, DC with such… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=83BE3B83-6CF0-447E-AA95-F5842ACF6EC6 | Murray, Smith, Cantwell, and Jayapal Request Inspector General Investigations into Conditions at the NWDC | 2018-11-29 | 2018 | 2018-11 | Democrat | House | WA | Patty Murray | M001111 | www.murray.senate.gov | legacy | Washington, DC Following the death of Mergansana Amar, a Russian asylum seeker detained in the custody of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement at the Northwest Detention Center (NWDC) in Tacoma, Washington, Congressman Adam Smith (WA-09), Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Patty Murray (D-WA) and Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal (WA-07) sent a letter to the Department of Homeland Security Office of Inspector General requesting a comprehensive inspection and review of the conditions at the NWDC and an investigation into the death of Mr. Amar. The Members write in part, There is a clear pattern that indicates a severe lack of oversight and repeated failures to make sufficient improvements by ICE and private contractors operating detention facilities It's vital that we understand what happened and what improvements must be made to address safety and health risks that could otherwise lead to similar tragic incidents in the future. The full text of the letter can be found below and here. The Honorable John V. Kelly Acting Inspector General Office of the Inspector General U.S. Department of Homeland Security 245 Murray Lane SW Washington, D.C. 20528 Dear Acting Inspector General Kelly: We write to urge the Office of Inspector General (OIG) to conduct a thorough investigation of the death of Mergansana Amar, a Russian asylum seeker detained in the custody of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) at the Northwest Detention Center (NWDC) in Tacoma, Washington. In addition, we urge you to conduct a comprehensive inspection and review of the conditions at the NWDC, including potential retaliation against detainee whistleblowers. The Northwest Detention Center is operated by the GEO Group, which is the same private contractor that operates the Adelanto ICE Processing Center in California. As you are aware, Adelanto was the subject of a recent report from your office which condemned conditions at the facility. The Management Alert, issued by the OIG on September 27, 2018, recounts conditions t… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://adamsmith.house.gov/press-releases?ID=FC36658D-CFEC-46AA-8419-8064297739B7 | Global Fragility and Violence Reduction Act Passes House | 2018-11-28 | 2018 | 2018-11 | Democrat | House | WA | Adam Smith | S000510 | adamsmith.house.gov | legacy | 0 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | |||
| https://dennyheck.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/the-presidents-company-braces-for-democratic-investigations | A Treasury Misfire (Editorial) | 2018-11-28 | 2018 | 2018-11 | Democrat | House | WA | Denny Heck | H001064 | dennyheck.house.gov | legacy | Treasury is worried the bill will tie U.S. hands in international negotiations when Europeans are trying to impose their solvency standards on the rest of the world. But that's not a bad thing, especially since Democrats could control the White House by the time an agreement is finalized. The U.S. state-based insurance system dates to the 19th century, and in 1945 Congress formally ceded authority to the states with the McCarran-Ferguson Act. Although the system has flawssuch as less cross-state competitionpolicyholders here are better protected than those in Europe. States require subsidiaries to be individually capitalized, so insurers can't charge higher rates for car insurance to reduce homeowner premiums. State commissioners also can't use the assets of subsidiaries in other states to suppress rates in their own. Thus, homeowners in New Mexico can't be forced to subsidize premiums in California or Florida. Insurers in Europe are regulated like banks at the holding company level. This means insurers can cross-subsidize products. Subsidiaries are also on the hook for one another's liabilities, so life insurance policy holders in Germany can wind up rescuing those in Italy. In the U.S., state guaranty pools funded by insurers protect policyholders if a subsidiary fails. Although creditors in the U.S. may get wiped out in bankruptcy, losses are contained at the subsidiary level. Most of AIG's problems last decade stemmed from bad mortgage bets in its financial products division. Even without the federal rescue, the state-based system would have shielded AIG policyholders. The issue now is that European regulators and insurers are trying to export their group-based prudential regulations on the pretext of levelling the playing field. This is Brussels code for tying foreign companies with their regulatory noose. U.S. insurers with global footprints could be locked out of European markets if Brussels declines to recognize the state-based solvency regime. The Obama Administration negotiated a… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://jayapal.house.gov/media/press-releases/jayapal-pays-tribute-washington-house-speaker-frank-chopp | Jayapal Pays Tribute to Washington House Speaker Frank Chopp | 2018-11-28 | 2018 | 2018-11 | Democrat | House | WA | Pramila Jayapal | J000298 | jayapal.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. Congresswoman Jayapal, formerly a Washington State Senator representing the 37th District, released the following statement regarding State House Speaker Frank Chopp's decision to step down from leadership next year: Frank Chopp has been an invaluable leader for our state. When he steps down as Speaker at the end of this next session, he will leave an indelible mark on our state as one that is fairer and more just for all Washingtonians. As Speaker, Frank was a master strategist, visionary and coalition builder. When I served in the State Senate, Frank was a valued partner and friend. We worked closely together on critical issues, including helping me to establish the first Southeast Economic Opportunity Center in the Rainier Valley, create affordable housing, advance voting rights and humane immigration policy. I want to thank Frank for his courage and commitment over his many years of public service and for the work he will continue to do as Representative for the 43rd District. The next Speaker will have big shoes to fill. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-murray-colleagues-introduce-senate-resolution-endorsing-findings-of-recent-climate-change-reports-and-urging-immediate-action | Cantwell, Murray, Colleagues Introduce Senate Resolution Endorsing Findings of Recent Climate Change Reports & Urging Immediate Action | 2018-11-28 | 2018 | 2018-11 | Democrat | House | WA | Maria Cantwell | C000127 | www.cantwell.senate.gov | legacy | 11.28.18 Cantwell, Murray, Colleagues Introduce Senate Resolution Endorsing Findings of Recent Climate Change Reports & Urging Immediate Action WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and Patty Murray (D-WA) joined 23 of their colleagues to introduce a Senate resolution outlining key findings of the recent Intergovernmental Panel On Climate Change (IPCC) report and last week's National Climate Assessment. The resolution affirms the signing members' recognition and acceptance of these findings and calls for bold action to combat climate change. The impacts of climate change are real and are already being felt in communities across the country, Senator Cantwell said. Extreme weather events are growing more frequent, putting our homes and livelihoods at risk. Our regional economies that depend on agriculture, tourism, and fisheries are all vulnerable. President Trump may refuse to accept the devastating reality of climate change, but it can't stop the rest of us from shining a bright spotlight on the facts and continuing to fight for action, Senator Murray said. For us in the Pacific Northwest, this is personal. Climate change is already starting to wreak havoc on our environment and our economy, from longer, more devastating wildfires and smoke-filled skies, to diminishing salmon runs, ocean acidification, and changing growing seasons. While it's extremely frustrating that President Trump and his allies twist and dismiss the facts in order to suit their agenda, the rest of us who believe in science and share concern for future generations must continue sounding the alarm and pushing for meaningful efforts to combat climate change. On Oct. 8, the IPCC released a report outlining the consequences of rising global temperatures and the ways in which climate chaos will become substantially worse as the planet continues to experience pre-industrial levels of warming. It determined that the difference between warming of 1.5 degrees Celsius and 2 degrees Celsius is substant… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=0184CD76-26A2-4811-8027-D72031DFF03F | Joined by Advocates and Survivors of Campus Sexual Assault, Senator Murray Urges Education Secretary DeVos to Withdraw Title IX Rule, Encourages Students and Survivors to Continue Making Their Voices Heard | 2018-11-28 | 2018 | 2018-11 | Democrat | House | WA | Patty Murray | M001111 | www.murray.senate.gov | legacy | Senator Murray, standing with advocates and sexual assault survivors, urged Secretary DeVos to withdraw her rule, listen to students and survivors, and aggressively implement student protections Secretary DeVos' proposal would weaken protections for survivors and make it easier for schools to shirk their responsibility to keep students safe Senator Murray: I'm calling on anyone who cares about students' safety to join me in urging Secretary DeVos to withdraw this rule, start over, build on the progress we've made instead of moving us backward, and work with us and women and survivors across the country to draft a rule that truly addresses the scourge of sexual assault ICYMI: Senator Murray Calls On Education Secretary DeVos to Stop Plan That Would Weaken Sexual Assault Protections, Start Listening to Students' Concerns MORE HERE ***WATCH VIDEO OF FULL NEWS CONFERENCE HERE*** Senator Patty Murray (center), flanked by Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH, far right) and advocates and sexual assault survivors, urges Secretary DeVos to reverse course on her proposed Title IX rule that would weaken protections for campus sexual assault survivors at a news conference at the U.S. Capitol on November 28th. (Washington, D.C.) Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), the top Democrat on the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, joined sexual assault survivors and advocates to call on Secretary DeVos to rescind her proposed Title IX regulation that would once again sweep sexual assault under the rug.Senator Murray, a longtime champion of efforts to strengthen protections for students and sexual assault survivors, has vocally opposed Secretary DeVos' efforts to weaken student protections against campus sexual assault and previously pressed the Secretary to postpone her draft regulation and instead take time to engage with students to hear their concerns about the proposal. Secretary DeVos' proposed Title IX rule makes it clear she did not listen to students and survivors who bravely asked her to l… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=51145CCC-F86E-4B13-99A5-A81FDBD2CE7D | Following Senator Murrays Call for an Internal Investigation Into President Trumps Zero-Tolerance Family Separation Crisis, Federal Watchdog Reveals Multiple Missteps at Agency in Charge of Caring for Children | 2018-11-28 | 2018 | 2018-11 | Democrat | House | WA | Patty Murray | M001111 | www.murray.senate.gov | legacy | The HHS Office of Inspector General issues new report that shows significant vulnerabilities at the Office of Refugee Resettlement, the office in charge of caring for children separated from their parents at the U.S. border Senator Murray: there is no excuse for the findings in this reportthat a facility responsible for children's wellbeing isn't making sure its employees pass FBI and other background checks or that it has enough staff to provide traumatized children with critically necessary mental health care ICYMI: Inspector General Launches Inquiry After Senator Murray Demands Investigation of Health Department's Treatment of Children Separated from Parents Under President Trump's Policy MORE HERE (Washington, D.C.) U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), top Democrat on the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, responded to a new report from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office of Inspector General (OIG) that identified significant vulnerabilities at a facility in Tornillo, Texas, tasked with caring for children as part of the Office of Refugee Resettlement's (ORR) Unaccompanied Alien Children (UAC) program. The report comes after Senator Murray led a formal request in June for the HHS Office of the Inspector General to investigate the Office of Refugee Resettlement's ability to care for children forcibly separated from their parents due to President Trump's cruel policy. The report, issued yesterday, found the Department waived the requirement the facility conduct required Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) fingerprint and child abuse and neglect background checks for staff working with minors and also the facility failed to hire enough mental health providers to ensure traumatized children in its care received adequate mental health services. Everything about this cruel policy has been a disaster of President Trump's own making. There is no reason for the Trump administration to tear children from their parents' arms, and there is no excuse for the findings… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=5F17522D-8A59-4821-9E49-358E5B0CF7BC | Senator Murray, Colleagues Introduce Senate Resolution Endorsing Findings of Recent Climate Change Reports & Urging Immediate Action | 2018-11-28 | 2018 | 2018-11 | Democrat | House | WA | Patty Murray | M001111 | www.murray.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA) and Maria Cantwell (D-WA) joined 23 of their colleagues to introduce a Senate resolution outlining key findings of the recent Intergovernmental Panel On Climate Change (IPCC) report and last week's National Climate Assessment. The resolution affirms the signing members' recognition and acceptance of these findings and calls for bold action to combat climate change. President Trump may refuse to accept the devastating reality of climate change, but it can't stop the rest of us from shining a bright spotlight on the facts and continuing to fight for action, Senator Murray said. For us in the Pacific Northwest, this is personal. Climate change is already starting to wreak havoc on our environment and our economy, from longer, more devastating wildfires and smoke-filled skies, to diminishing salmon runs, ocean acidification, and changing growing seasons. While it's extremely frustrating that President Trump and his allies twist and dismiss the facts in order to suit their agenda, the rest of us who believe in science and share concern for future generations must continue sounding the alarm and pushing for meaningful efforts to combat climate change. The impacts of climate change are real and are already being felt in communities across the country, Senator Cantwell said. Extreme weather events are growing more frequent, putting our homes and livelihoods at risk. Our regional economies that depend on agriculture, tourism, and fisheries are all vulnerable. On Oct. 8, the IPCC released a report outlining the consequences of rising global temperatures and the ways in which climate chaos will become substantially worse as the planet continues to experience pre-industrial levels of warming. It determined that the difference between warming of 1.5 degrees Celsius and 2 degrees Celsius is substantial and found that limiting warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius is affordable, feasible, and necessary to protect people from the worst impacts of climate change. The report conclude… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=7A34BBA7-CAC1-4083-87C0-4180F3AB01F0 | Senator Murray Statement on Her Strong Opposition to President Trumps District Judge Nominee Thomas Farr | 2018-11-28 | 2018 | 2018-11 | Democrat | House | WA | Patty Murray | M001111 | www.murray.senate.gov | legacy | (Washington, D.C.) Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) released the following statement regarding Thomas Farr, President Trump's nominee to the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina. President Trump and Senate Republicans may hope most Americans ignore Thomas Farr's consistent, disturbing pattern of racial targeting and hostility to voting rights, but it is clear that Farr, over the course of his long career, has worked diligently to undermine our nation's values and hinder African-Americans from exercising their right to vote. So I join my Senate Democratic colleagues in vigorously opposing his nomination. The ability to vote and make your voice heard is a bedrock of our democracy, and as the systemic challenges embedded in our voting system become more clear for many Americansespecially people of color and others whose political power has been severely limited through aggressive gerrymandering and voter suppressionthe last thing Congress should do is confirm someone to our federal courts who for decades has demonstrated a clear hostility to upholding our American ideals. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=E4F05EB1-3EC2-4117-8383-263C18D2DB04 | Highlighting Year of Major Expansion of VAs Caregiver Support Program, Senator Murray Urges Lawmakers and Advocates to Stay Focused on Strengthening Support for Veterans and Their Caregivers | 2018-11-28 | 2018 | 2018-11 | Democrat | House | WA | Patty Murray | M001111 | www.murray.senate.gov | legacy | At an event for military & veteran caregivers hosted by the Elizabeth Dole Foundation, Senator Murray cheered the passage of new legislation to expand program to veterans of all eras VA Caregiver Support Program provides resources and support to those who put their own lives on hold to care for a veteran with service-connected injuries Senator Murray: when we join together to fight for things such as the Caregiver Support Program, and a stronger VA systemwe begin to make good on the promise to care for youthe caregivers and veteranslong after the battles are over A senior member of the Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee, Senator Murray has led the fight to increase federal support for veteran caregivers and worked successfully to strengthen investments to expand VA's Caregiver Support Program to veterans of all eras ICYMI: In Huge Win for Military Families, Senator Murray Applauds Passage of Sweeping Legislation to Improve Veterans' Care, Which Includes Her Provision to Expand VA's Caregiver Support Program LINK (Washington, D.C.) Underlining the nation's obligation to care for our military veterans and their families after they return home, today U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee and the daughter of a World War II veteran, joined military veterans, caregivers, lawmakers, and other advocates to celebrate recent wins to expand VA's Caregiver Support Program and increase federal support for veterans and their caregivers. In remarks at the U.S. Capitol, Senator Murray recognized the hard work of the veteran caregiver community to help successfully pass the VA MISSION Act, which included a provision written by Senator Murray that finally makes veterans of all eras eligible for the VA's Caregiver Support Program, and get it signed into law earlier this year; Senator Murray also applauded the coalition's efforts to help secure significant federal investments in the program in the spending bill passed by Congress in June. Senator Murray challenged att… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://dennyheck.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/bankers-pot-push-gets-boost-from-blue-wave-sessions-ouster | Bankers' pot push gets boost from blue wave, Sessions ouster | 2018-11-27 | 2018 | 2018-11 | Democrat | House | WA | Denny Heck | H001064 | dennyheck.house.gov | legacy | Lenders are asking Congress to enact a safe harbor for banks and credit unions to serve marijuana businesses because the drug remains illegal at the federal level. The prohibition has made bankers concerned that they'll face penalties from their federal regulators for taking money from the cannabis industry even in states where the sale of weed is legal. "We now have, I think, close to a majority of the nation's population that lives in states where some form of access to marijuana is legal," Heck said. "The businesses that either grow it or process it or retail it are operating under this terrible cloud because banks and credit unions aren't quite sure what the federal regulators will do to them if they provide those services." Before this month's elections, some Democrats were already drawing up plans to tackle the issue if they won back the House. Rep. Earl Blumenauer (D-Ore.) released a memo containing a committee-by-committee breakdown and timeline outlining how to move ahead with legislation that would feed into a package of cannabis reform bills. "There's no question: Cannabis prohibition will end," Blumenauer wrote. "Democrats should lead the way. If we fail to act swiftly, I fear as the 2020 election approaches, Donald Trump will claim credit for our work in an effort to shore up support especially from young voters." While a comprehensive approach to pot might be a heavy lift, there is some hope among supporters of marijuana banking legislation that it's narrow enough to get traction in the next Congress. Compass Point analyst Isaac Boltansky puts the odds of cannabis legalization at 25 percent but pegs the likelihood of banking-related legislation passing at 75 percent. "I doubt we will see the green-sky scenario of federal legalization, given the divided Congress and the inherent incrementalism of this issue," he said. "But a banking fix is clearly in striking distance for the next Congress." Banks have been gearing up for this moment. The Independent … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://jayapal.house.gov/media/press-releases/national-earthquake-hazards-reduction-program-reauthorization-act-2018-passes | National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program Reauthorization Act of 2018 Passes House with Jayapal As Democratic Co-Sponsor | 2018-11-27 | 2018 | 2018-11 | Democrat | House | WA | Pramila Jayapal | J000298 | jayapal.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, S. 1768, the National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program Reauthorization Act of 2018, passed the United States House of Representatives after successfully passing the Senate in September. Representative Pramila Jayapal (WA-07) was the sole Democratic co-sponsor of the House version. The bill is expected to go to President Trump's desk in the coming weeks. National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program Reauthorization is the first step to ensure our states have the resources they need to prepare for earthquakes; states like mine that have been anticipating a catastrophic earthquake for many years, said Jayapal. As we've watched tragedies unfold around the world, it's clear we must do everything in our power to build resilience so that when earthquakes inevitably strike, our communities are as prepared as they can be. This has been an important issue to me since my days in the Washington State Senate, given our state's geography and the serious threats we face from earthquakes. This reauthorization will help make sure all our communities have the basics covered, including improving building standards, early warning systems, and better monitoring for seismic activity. I hope this bill will be one of many that we pass to invest in strong infrastructure and disaster preparedness. I look forward to working with my colleagues to push this forward in the next Congress. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://larsen.house.gov/press-release/larsen-preserves-jobs-dakota-creek-industries | Larsen Preserves Jobs at Dakota Creek Industries | 2018-11-27 | 2018 | 2018-11 | Democrat | House | WA | Rick Larsen | L000560 | larsen.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. Rep. Rick Larsen (WA-02) applauded the passage of the Frank LoBiondo Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2018, which will preserve hundreds of jobs at Dakota Creek Industries. The passage of the Frank LoBiondo Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2018 is a win for the hard-working women and men at Dakota Creek Industries. Dakota Creek is a key contributor to the regional economy and supports hundreds of local jobs, said Larsen. Securing a Jones Act solution for Dakota Creek Industries has been a long-fought battle. I appreciate the coordination with Senator Cantwell, Senator Sullivan and Rep. Don Young as we have worked non-stop to find avenues to save hundreds of jobs on the line. Rep. Larsen has been a strong advocate for Dakota Creek Industries. Larsen has successfully included the waiver twice in related House-passed legislation. The Frank LoBiondo Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2018 has now passed in the Senate and in the House of Representatives. The legislation will now move to the president's desk for signature. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-votes-no-on-ferc-nominee_ | Cantwell Votes No On FERC Nominee | 2018-11-27 | 2018 | 2018-11 | Democrat | House | WA | Maria Cantwell | C000127 | www.cantwell.senate.gov | legacy | 11.27.18 Cantwell Votes No On FERC Nominee Energy and Natural Resources Committee Ranking Member Cites McNamee's Outside The Mainstream Positions On Fossil Fuels, Coal Bail Out Washington, D.C. Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), the top Democrat on the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, voted "No" on the Trump administration's nominee for the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Bernard McNamee. I would have liked to take Mr. McNamee at his word when he assured me that he would be 'a fair, objective, and impartial arbiter,' and that he would decide these matters coming before him 'based on the law and the facts.' But after the video surfaced of Mr. McNamee's speech on fossil fuels, I find it hard to believe that he is going to be an impartial reviewer of these issues, said Senator Cantwell. Mr. McNamee's speech shows him to be neither fair nor judicious. His views expressed are out of the mainstream, said Senator Cantwell. This fact was made even clearer this weekend with the release of the National Climate Assessment. It shows, in stark terms, the impacts that climate change is already having and that are being felt in communities across the country. Extreme weather events are growing more frequent. The bottom line is that they are costing us more at the federal level; they are costing us real dollars. They are putting our homes and livelihoods at risk. Our regional economies that depend on agriculture, tourism and fisheries are all vulnerable. In response to the release of a video of McNamee criticizing renewable energy and environmental groups, Senator Cantwell submitted the following questions for the record. Broadcast quality video of Senator Cantwell's opening statement can be found here. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/legislation-repealing-outdated-1834-ban-on-distilleries-on-tribal-land-headed-to-presidents-desk | Legislation Repealing Outdated 1834 Ban on Distilleries on Tribal Land Headed to President’s Desk | 2018-11-27 | 2018 | 2018-11 | Democrat | House | WA | Maria Cantwell | C000127 | www.cantwell.senate.gov | legacy | 11.27.18 Legislation Repealing Outdated 1834 Ban on Distilleries on Tribal Land Headed to President's Desk Washington, D.C. Today, the U.S. Senate passed bipartisan legislation to repeal an outdated 1834 law that prohibits Native American Tribes from building and operating distilleries on their Tribal lands. U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA), a current member and former Chairwoman of the Senate Indian Affairs Committee, and Patty Murray (D-WA) introduced the bill in the Senate, while Congresswoman Jaime Herrera Beutler (WA-3) carried the bill in the House of Representatives. The bill, which passed the House in September, now heads to President Trump to be signed into law. There's no place for laws that discriminate against our Native American communities and limit their economic opportunities, said Senator Cantwell, who also urged passage of the bill in a Senate Indian Affairs Committee hearing earlier this year. Getting this outdated law off the books is a crucial step to support entrepreneurship, economic development, and Tribal self-determination throughout Indian Country. For nearly 200 years this archaic law has been a barrier for tribal nations pursing economic freedom, and today's vote brings us one step closer to finally sweeping it into the dustbin of history, said Senator Murray. This is a win for the Chehalis Tribe that will help spur new economic development, and I urge President Trump to sign this legislation into law as soon as possible to help empower entrepreneurship in other tribal nations in our state and around the country. When the Chehalis Tribe first approached me about an antiquated law that prevented them from building a distillery on their land, it was clear that Congress needed to take action and repeal it in the name of fairness. I was pleased to partner with the Chehalis to craft, introduce and secure passage of this legislation in the U.S. House, and am grateful my colleagues in the Senate were equally successful in their efforts. Today we're sendin… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=14DA82AB-33CA-49CA-AFC2-7E15BD3A4E3B | Senator Murray Champions Legislation Repealing Outdated 1834 Ban on Distilleries on Tribal Land Headed to Presidents Desk | 2018-11-27 | 2018 | 2018-11 | Democrat | House | WA | Patty Murray | M001111 | www.murray.senate.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Today, the U.S. Senate passed bipartisan legislation to repeal an outdated 1834 law that prohibits Native American Tribes from building and operating distilleries on their Tribal lands. U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA), andMaria Cantwell (D-WA), a current member and former Chairwoman of the Senate Indian Affairs Committee,introduced the bill in the Senate, while Congresswoman Jaime Herrera Beutler (WA-3) carried the bill in the House of Representatives. The bill, which passed the House in September, now heads to President Trump to be signed into law. For nearly 200 years this archaic law has been a barrier for tribal nations pursing economic freedom, and today's vote brings us one step closer to finally sweeping it into the dustbin of history,said Senator Murray.This is a win for the Chehalis Tribe that will help spur new economic development, and I urge President Trump to sign this legislation into law as soon as possible to help empower entrepreneurship in other tribal nations in our state and around the country. There's no place for laws that discriminate against our Native American communities and limit their economic opportunities, said Senator Cantwell, who also urged passage of the bill in a Senate Indian Affairs Committee hearing earlier this year. Getting this outdated law off the books is a crucial step to support entrepreneurship, economic development, and Tribal self-determination throughout Indian Country. When the Chehalis Tribe first approached me about an antiquated law that prevented them from building a distillery on their land, it was clear that Congress needed to take action and repeal it in the name of fairness. I was pleased to partner with the Chehalis to craft, introduce and secure passage of this legislation in the U.S. House, and am grateful my colleagues in the Senate were equally successful in their efforts. Today we're sending a common-sense, bipartisan bill to the president's desk that removes a hurdle for tribes in Southwest Washington and across the country t… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=4B2E7D70-CEDA-4A5A-80DE-354867560EA8 | Murray, Merkley, and Blumenauer Announce New Step Forward for Tribal Housing Plan Along Columbia River | 2018-11-27 | 2018 | 2018-11 | Democrat | House | WA | Patty Murray | M001111 | www.murray.senate.gov | legacy | After lawmakers' urging, federal agencies green light funding to complete plan to address housing needs decades after construction of dam took out tribes' homes and villages on Columbia River (Washington, D.C.) Today, Sens. Patty Murray (D-WA) and Jeff Merkley (D-OR), joined by Rep. Earl Blumenauer (D-OR), announced that the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Army Corps) has allocated $1.8 million to complete The Dalles Dam Tribal Housing Village Development Plan, following the lawmakers' request in October 2018 to complete this critical plan. Congress already provided additional funding for the Army Corps, but needed agencies to allocate the funding to The Dalles Dam Tribal Housing Village Development Plan to allow the Army Corps to move forward. The plan is necessary to address the loss of tribal homes and villages in the 1950s due to construction of The Dalles Dam. This represents another welcome step in fulfilling the federal government's long overdue obligation to restore tribal housing and access to the Columbia River, said Sen. Murray, a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee. Now that the latest investment is in place, we will continue holding federal agency officials accountable to ensure that the plan is not only completed, but also carried out so tribal members get the facilities and river access they were promised more than 65 years ago. This is a critical step in righting a decades-long wrong, said Sen. Merkley. Displacing tribal nations and leaving them without safe, reliable housing is simply wrong. Ever since the construction of the Columbia River dams, the federal government has owed it to these tribes to provide the housing and infrastructure that was promised. This funding is one step closer to making good on our commitments. Moving this process forward under the Trump administration has been like pulling teeth, said Rep. Blumenauer. I'm pleased we finally made progress on this fundamental step, but I won't let up the pressure until the United States' promises to the tribes have b… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://adamsmith.house.gov/press-releases?ID=67C707E2-C8F9-47B3-A136-A917A9D7AEA1 | Smith Statement on Transgender Military Ban and the Supreme Court | 2018-11-23 | 2018 | 2018-11 | Democrat | House | WA | Adam Smith | S000510 | adamsmith.house.gov | legacy | 0 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | |||
| https://adamsmith.house.gov/press-releases?ID=ABDD81A1-AC2D-40D2-B8E5-50C19EA58075 | Smith Statement on Trump Border Deployment Order | 2018-11-23 | 2018 | 2018-11 | Democrat | House | WA | Adam Smith | S000510 | adamsmith.house.gov | legacy | 0 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | |||
| https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=26C8F1B6-C30C-4E94-B681-BD64A94647D8 | Senator Murray Reiterates Call to Send Troops at Southern U.S. Border Home Immediately | 2018-11-22 | 2018 | 2018-11 | Democrat | House | WA | Patty Murray | M001111 | www.murray.senate.gov | legacy | (Washington, D.C.) Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) released the following statement: Instead of being at home with their loved ones, today thousands of U.S. servicemen and women, including a number of soldiers from JBLM, are spending the Thanksgiving holiday on an unnecessary deployment on the Southern U.S. border at the behest of President Trump. I reiterate my call to end this operation immediately, and to stop using troops and taxpayer dollars to fulfill what appears to be nothing more than the president's politically-motivated scheme. On Monday, Senator Murray and Senator Brian Schatz (D-HI) urged Defense Secretary Mattis to send troops home this week, noting that the Department of Defense had thus far failed to demonstrate that asylum seekers pose a national security threat. You can read their letter to Secretary Mattis HERE. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/with-congress-home-for-thanksgiving-despite-looming-budget-deadline-kilmer-and-arrington-say-no-budget-no-recess- | With Congress Home for Thanksgiving Despite Looming Budget Deadline, Kilmer and Arrington Say: No Budget, No Recess | 2018-11-21 | 2018 | 2018-11 | Democrat | House | WA | Derek Kilmer | K000381 | kilmer.house.gov | legacy | 11.21.18 With Congress Home for Thanksgiving Despite Looming Budget Deadline, Kilmer and Arrington Say: No Budget, No Recess Amendment to Be Considered by Joint Select Committee on Budget and Appropriations Process Reform Later This Month WASHINGTON, DC If Congress fails to do its job by passing a budget resolution and appropriations bills by their statutory deadlines, its members should not be allowed to head home for Thanksgiving without completion of their work. To address this, Representatives Derek Kilmer (D-WA) and Representative Jodey Arrington (R-TX) have proposed an amendment, calling on the Joint Select Committee on Budget and Appropriations Process Reform's support when it returns to complete consideration of their recommendations after Thanksgiving. Ever since my first job at West Side Video in Port Angeles, Washington, I've never had a job where I expected my boss to approve a leave request if my work wasn't finished. Congress ought to function the same way, Kilmer said. It's time for comprehensive reform to Congress's budgeting process that incentivizes progress over partisanship and bipartisanship over bickering. That's the driving force behind the No-budget, No-recess amendment Rep. Arrington and I will offer next week. As families across America prepare to travel for the Thanksgiving holiday this week, Congress has once again prematurely closed shop, this time, with seven of the twelve spending bills still outstanding, said Arrington. It has been over twenty years since Congress passed all spending bills before the end of the new fiscal year. The failure of Congress to do its basic job of funding the government and instead rely on stopgap spending measures has created needless waste, disruption, and inefficiencies. That is why I am introducing a legislative fix with my colleagues, Representative Derek Kilmer (D-WA) and Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA), to implement a No Budget, No Recess provision in our budgeting and appropriations process as a way to hold Congress accountable t… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://larsen.house.gov/press-release/larsen-reiterates-support-nato-allies-meeting-nato-parliamentarians | Larsen Reiterates Support for NATO Allies at Meeting of NATO Parliamentarians | 2018-11-20 | 2018 | 2018-11 | Democrat | House | WA | Rick Larsen | L000560 | larsen.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. From November 16-19, Rep. Rick Larsen (WA-02), a senior member of the House Armed Services Committee, traveled to Halifax to attend the NATO Parliamentary Assembly and the Halifax International Security Forum. Throughout the Assembly, Rep. Larsen met with his NATO counterparts to discuss issues including protecting elections from foreign interference, security challenges in the Arctic, science and technology investments and international trade. Additionally, members had the opportunity to hear about commitments on defense spending. At its heart, the NATO alliance is about nations of similar values working together to confront and deter shared threats. It is not a protection racket, said Larsen. While NATO members have committed to spending two percent of GDP on defense by 2024, no nation is delinquent' or owes money to the United States, as the president has suggested. Meeting with parliamentarians from other NATO member states was particularly valuable, Larsen continued. Our Baltic allies are investing in their own defense and the lethality of the alliance. And the Nordic nations are important partners and leaders in defense innovation. Earlier this year, Larsen sent a letter to President Trump underscoring the importance of Norway to the United States. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://adamsmith.house.gov/press-releases?ID=E923D6C8-4C86-4341-BE01-764744072467 | Smith Statement on Reported Border Withdrawal | 2018-11-19 | 2018 | 2018-11 | Democrat | House | WA | Adam Smith | S000510 | adamsmith.house.gov | legacy | 0 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | |||
| https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/last-hurdle-cleared-for-federal-grant-to-lynnwood-link-extension-senators-cantwell-and-murray-applaud-major-new-investment | Last Hurdle Cleared for Federal Grant to Lynnwood Link Extension; Senators Cantwell and Murray Applaud Major New Investment | 2018-11-19 | 2018 | 2018-11 | Democrat | House | WA | Maria Cantwell | C000127 | www.cantwell.senate.gov | legacy | 11.19.18 Last Hurdle Cleared for Federal Grant to Lynnwood Link Extension; Senators Cantwell and Murray Applaud Major New Investment Final agreement for Lynnwood Link light rail extension project submitted to Congress, kicking off last 30-day review before agreement is signed and executed WASHINGTON, D.C. Following months of pressure urging U. S. Department of Transportation officials to follow Congressional direction and approve federal infrastructure investments in Washington state, today U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA) andPatty Murray (D-WA)cheered the Federal Transit Administration's (FTA) submission of the full funding grant agreement for the Lynnwood Link light rail extension, kicking off a 30-day review period by Congressthe last step before FTA can sign and execute the agreement. The final agreement will cement a $1.2 billion commitment from the federal government to help fund the project, and will allow Sound Transit to begin drawing down on $200 million of federal funding already allocated by Congress for the project through the Capital Investment Grants (CIG) program. Christmas came early to Puget Sound with a major investment in light rail going to Snohomish County.This agreement will link commuters and businesses throughout the region, build more parking for commuters and ease traffic congestion,said Senator Cantwell.I appreciate the hard work of Secretary Chao and the Department of Transportation given the complexity of this project and the importance of this next phase. This is fantastic news for North Sound residents who are one step closer to seeing our shared goal of expanding public transit options in their communities become reality. Completing the Lynnwood Link light rail extension will help commuters and consumers connect with employment and education centers, local businesses, as well as address congestion concerns, and I am grateful to Secretary C… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-cantwell-and-murray-join-bicameral-amicus-brief-to-protect-national-monuments-against-president-trumps-unconstitutional-attacks | Senators Cantwell and Murray Join Bicameral Amicus Brief to Protect National Monuments Against President Trump’s Unconstitutional Attacks | 2018-11-19 | 2018 | 2018-11 | Democrat | House | WA | Maria Cantwell | C000127 | www.cantwell.senate.gov | legacy | 11.19.18 Senators Cantwell and Murray Join Bicameral Amicus Brief to Protect National Monuments Against President Trump's Unconstitutional Attacks Amicus brief makes case for Congress's authority as a steward of our public lands, checks President Trump's executive overreach in violation of Antiquities Act WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and Patty Murray (D-WA), along with over 100 of their colleagues in the House and Senate, submitted an amicus brief in support of plaintiffs in five cases before the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia that challenge the Trump Administration's decision to significantly diminish the Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monuments in southern Utah. In the brief, the lawmakers primarily argue that under the Constitution, no president has the power to shrink or reduce national monuments since that power resides with Congress alone a case that members of Congress are uniquely positioned to make. In addition to signing the amicus brief, both Senators Cantwell and Murray have previously been vocal opponents of President Trump's agenda to shrink national monuments and other public lands in Washington state and across the country. The full text of the amicus brief is available HERE. The full text of the motion to file is available HERE. A summary is available HERE. At issue in these cases is whether any president, including President Donald Trump, has the legal authority to reduce or abolish national monuments. According to the plaintiffs, which include Native American Tribes, scientific groups, businesses and conservation organizations, the Trump administration's actions violate both the Constitution and the Antiquities Act of 1906. If upheld, President Trump's order would slash more than 2 million acres of protected land reducing the size of Bears Ears from 1.35 million acres to approximately … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=13C3F790-D573-4868-AF81-A390291C3B5B | Senators Murray and Cantwell Join Bicameral Amicus Brief to Protect National Monuments Against President Trumps Unconstitutional Attacks | 2018-11-19 | 2018 | 2018-11 | Democrat | House | WA | Patty Murray | M001111 | www.murray.senate.gov | legacy | Amicus brief makes case for Congress's authority as a steward of our public lands, checks President Trump's executive overreach in violation of Antiquities Act WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA) and Maria Cantwell (D-WA), along with over 100 of their colleagues in the House and Senate, submitted an amicus brief in support of plaintiffs in five cases before the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia that challenge the Trump administration's decision to significantly diminish the Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monuments in southern Utah. In the brief, the lawmakers primarily argue that under the Constitution, no president has the power to shrink or reduce national monuments since that power resides with Congress alone a case that members of Congress are uniquely positioned to make. In addition to signing the amicus brief, both Senators Murray and Cantwell have previously been vocal opponents of President Trump's agenda to shrink national monuments and other public lands in Washington state and across the country. The full text of the amicus brief is available HERE. The full text of the motion to file is available HERE. A summary is available HERE. At issue in these cases is whether any president, including President Donald Trump, has the legal authority to reduce or abolish national monuments. According to the plaintiffs, which include Native American Tribes, scientific groups, businesses and conservation organizations, the Trump administration's actions violate both the Constitution and the Antiquities Act of 1906. If upheld, President Trump's order would slash more than 2 million acres of protected land reducing the size of Bears Ears from 1.35 million acres to approximately 200,000 acres and Grand Staircase-Escalante from 1.9 million acres to approximately 1 million acres the largest-ever elimination of public land protection in the country's history. In addition to Senators Murray, Cantwell and their colleagues, the amicus brief is also supported by a w… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z |
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