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177 rows where party = "Republican", state = "MN" and year = 2018 sorted by date descending

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https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/president-trump-signs-farm-bill-law President Trump Signs Farm Bill into Law 2018-12-20 2018 2018-12 Republican House MN Tom Emmer E000294 emmer.house.gov     legacy (Courtesy of the Congressional Western Caucus) WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, members of the Congressional Western Caucus released statements following signing of the Farm Bill into law by President Donald J. Trump Chief Defense and Interior Officer Chris Stewart (UT-02): Westerners have cause to celebrate the signing of the Farm Bill. Not only did it provide certainty for our farmers, it included many of my priorities that will deliver much needed habitat restoration for sage grouse and mule deer. Restoring western landscapes while mitigating the risk of catastrophic wildfires is a win for everyone. Chief Rules Officer Dan Newhouse (WA-04): Thank you, President Trump, for signing this critical legislation on behalf of Farm Country. The 2018 Farm Bill is a major accomplishment that gives Central Washington farmers and agriculture producers across the country much-needed certainty and a secure safety net. Vice Chairman of the House Agriculture Committee Glenn GT Thompson (PA-05): We were able to make significant reforms improving a number of programs, notably the safety net for our dairy farmers our dairy program. Our dairy farmers have continued to face difficult times over the past decade and we look for the law to provide some much needed stability to the sector. Overall, this is a huge win for producers, rural communities, and American consumers. Rep. Ralph Abraham (LA-05): The Farm Bill provides our farmers, ranchers and foresters with stability and the strong safety net that they need to plan for their futures. I'm proud of the work we did to get this bill over the finish line, and I'm glad it is now law. Rep. Ron Estes (KS-04): It was an honor to join President Trump at the White House today as the Farm Bill was signed into law. This law, combined with new work requirements from the Secretary of Agriculture, will provide Kansas farmers and ranchers with needed certainty, make historic investments in rural broadband, and help get people back to work to grow our economy. With the Farm Bill complete, I look forward t… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-expresses-support-efforts-combat-human-trafficking-0 Emmer Expresses Support for Efforts to Combat Human Trafficking 2018-12-19 2018 2018-12 Republican House MN Tom Emmer E000294 emmer.house.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. Today, Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) expressed support for efforts that will help combat the practice of trafficking of Cuban baseball players. Today, Major League Baseball, the MLB Players Association, and the Cuban Baseball Federation reached an important agreement that will help address the issue of human trafficking that so many Cuban baseball players experience as they seek to play in the United States, said Emmer. It is great to see all parties take the initiative and put together a targeted agreement which will stop the repeated exploitation of these players and their families. The agreement establishes a framework for Cuban athletes to enter into the Major League system after certain criteria are met. This agreement is consistent with other agreements reached between MLB and countries like Japan, and Korea. Throughout his time in Congress, Congressman Emmer has supported numerous efforts to combat human trafficking in the United States and globally. These efforts include the Congressman's support of legislation like the Frederick Douglass Trafficking Victims Prevention and Protection Reauthorization Act, H.R. 2200, and the Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2017, H.R. 1312. In addition, Congressman Emmer serves as a Co-Chair of the Bipartisan Congressional Cuba Working Group. He is the lead sponsor of the Cuba Trade Act, H.R. 442, to lift the current economic embargo on Cuba, and you can read more about his work on Cuba,here. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/farm-bill-passes-house-heads-president-s-desk Farm Bill Passes House, Heads to Presidents Desk 2018-12-12 2018 2018-12 Republican House MN Tom Emmer E000294 emmer.house.gov     legacy Legislation includes Emmer's STRESS Act to combat farmer suicide, provisions to improve dairy risk management tools, and provides funding for livestock disease prevention. WASHINGTON, DC Today, following passage of the Conference Report for the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018, commonly called the Farm Bill, Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) released the following statement: Today, Congress put the nation's farmers first. This Farm Bill includes improvements specifically needed for farmers in Minnesota's Sixth District, including better dairy risk management tools, funding to assist beginning farmers, and livestock disease prevention and response. I was proud to cast my vote in support of this legislation,said Congressman Emmer, whose district encompasses areas of rural Minnesota including parts of Stearns, Benton, Wright and Sherburne Counties. As this legislation heads to the President's desk, I am grateful to see the reauthorization of the Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network included. I take heart knowing my colleagues on both sides of the aisle have been supportive of this effort to deliver more mental health treatment to our farmers. They have suffered in silence for far too long,added Emmer. The STRESS Act language will reauthorize of the Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network (FRSAN) to give states needed resources to provide mental health services for farmers and ranchers. FRSAN was first authorized in 2008, though it did not receive funding and therefore lapsed. Farmers suffer a rate of suicide several times higher than the normal population. This is an important effort towards restoring our nation's attention to Americans in farming. Learn more about the STRESS Acthereand read the full legislative texthere. Read the full legislative text of the Conference Report for the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018here. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/western-caucus-applauds-epa-and-trump-admins-action-reverse-job-killing Western Caucus Applauds EPA and Trump Admin's Action To Reverse Job-Killing WOTUS Rule 2018-12-11 2018 2018-12 Republican House MN Tom Emmer E000294 emmer.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, members of the Congressional Western Caucus commended the EPA's official repeal of WOTUS: Chairman Paul Gosar (AZ-04): "Like a villain in Scooby Doo, the past Administration almost got away with an unparalleled expansion of Federal power. The WOTUS land and water-grab rule proposed by the Obama Administration was one of the greatest regulatory threats to the West and rural communities. Fortunately, this legally-dubious effort was unmasked for what it was by the Supreme Court and this Administration. I'm happy to see some sanity restored to Clean Water Act implementation. Thank you Acting Administrator Wheeler and President Trump for taking the lead and crafting a definition that adheres to the original law, promotes extremely clean and safe waterways, and remains Federalist in its nature." Rep. Ken Calvert (CA-42): "The Clean Water Act is an essential law that has made a tremendous impact protecting and improving the quality of one of our most precious resources. The updated WOTUS rule will help ensure our federal resource agencies are able to focus their efforts on our most significant waterways. It will also help eliminate the use of the Clean Water Act as a tool by serial litigants and extreme environmentalists to attack private property rights." Executive Vice Chairman Scott Tipton (CO-03): "The Obama Administration's Waters of the United States Rule (WOTUS) was one of the most onerous federal water and land grabs in this nation's history, usurping long-held state water law, threatening access to private water rights and jeopardizing the success of the economy. The damaging impact of WOTUS cannot be disregarded, so the EPA's proposed new rule is welcome news. It is high time that we provide certainty to America's farmers, ranchers and landowners, whose livelihoods rely on water." Vice Chairman for Indian Affairs and Oceans Don Young (AK-At Large): "The Obama-era WOTUS rule is a shining example of federal overreach. I'm pleased to see Administrator Wheeler take action in implementing P… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/klobuchar-smith-emmer-peterson-nolan-mccollum-urge-centers-medicare-and Klobuchar, Smith, Emmer, Peterson, Nolan, McCollum Urge Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to Reinstate Full Funding for Minnesotas Reinsurance Program 2018-12-10 2018 2018-12 Republican House MN Tom Emmer E000294 emmer.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON- U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith, and Representatives Tom Emmer, Collin Peterson, Rick Nolan and Betty McCollum urged the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to reinstate full funding for Minnesota's reinsurance program. Although CMS indicated that Minnesota should expect $183,930,230 for plan year 2019, the state received a letter on November 30, 2018 stating that Minnesota would receive only $84,757,861 which would be about $100 million less than the anticipated amount. Minnesota's reinsurance program stabilizes the state's insurance marketplace to ensure that more Minnesotans have access to affordable, quality health care. A sudden notification that CMS would be reducing federal funding by roughly $100 million just one month before the 2019 plan year has created significant uncertainty for our state, and to date CMS has offered no explanation for why this dramatic reduction in funding has occurred, the members wrote. We strongly urge CMS to reconsider its decision and provide a level of pass-through funding for Minnesota that more closely matches the figure provided in the original 2017 agreement. The full text of the letter can be found below: Dear Administrator Verma and Secretary Mnuchin: We write to express our serious concerns in response to the recent decision from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to reduce funding for Minnesota's reinsurance program by approximately $100 million for the 2019 plan year. On September 22, 2017, CMS approved Minnesota's 1332 State Innovation Waiver to implement a reinsurance program and outlined the funding that Minnesota could expect to receive for plan years 2019 through 2022.Although CMS indicated that Minnesota should expect $183,930,230 for plan year 2019, the state received a letter on November 30 of 2018 stating that Minnesota would receive only $84,757,861 which would be about $100 million less than the anticipated amount. Minnesota's 1332 waiver was an agreement with the federal government to stabilize the… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/house-members-commemorate-one-year-anniversary-president-donald-trumps House Members Commemorate One-Year Anniversary of President Donald Trump's Official Recognition of Jerusalem as the Capital of Israel 2018-12-06 2018 2018-12 Republican House MN Tom Emmer E000294 emmer.house.gov     legacy (Courtesy of Congressman Andy Biggs) WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, Congressman Andy Biggs and 42 cosponsors introduced a resolution to commemorate the one-year anniversary of President Donald Trump's official recognition of Jerusalem as the capital of the State of Israel and the announcement of his intention to relocate the American embassy to Jerusalem. Congressman Biggs, along with many of the cosponsors, released the following statements: Israel is one of the United States' most enduring allies, and President Trump kept a significant promise by recognizing Jerusalem as Israel's capital and announcing his intention to move our embassy to Jerusalem. That embassy was opened in Jerusalem earlier this year. These milestones signify our commitment to our ally. I thank my many colleagues who joined me in this resolution. Congressman Andy Biggs (AZ-05) I am pleased to be an original cosponsor on this important legislation. This year has marked a restoration of the U.S.-Israel relationship. President Trump's moving of the U.S. Embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem was monumental not because he is the first president to promise this move, but because he is the only president who made good on that promise. I have supported moving the embassy since my start in Congress and am proud to have seen it come to fruition. I want to thank my colleague Rep. Biggs for initiating this great commemoration and for working with me collaboratively on the final bill. Congressman Doug Lamborn (CO-05) Today, we celebrate the one-year anniversary of President Trump's momentous decision to move the U.S. Embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to the recognized capital of Jerusalem. During his campaign, President Trump committed to finally make this move, and I applaud him displaying strong leadership and courageous action in support of one of America's closest allies in the world. House Majority Whip Steve Scalise (LA-01) My support remains unwavering for President Trump's courageous and just decision to recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Isr… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-welcomes-cms-move-increase-access-mental-health-treatment Emmer Welcomes CMS Move to Increase Access to Mental Health Treatment 2018-11-14 2018 2018-11 Republican House MN Tom Emmer E000294 emmer.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C. - Following Congressman Tom Emmer's (MN-06) letterto the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) calling for action, and eleven months after the congressional deadline, yesterday the agency outlinedhow states like Minnesota can utilize 1115 waivers toincrease access to mental health treatment. Specifically, in a letter to State Medicaid Directors, CMS provided information on how to navigate an outdated federal law, called the Institutions for Mental Diseases (IMD) exclusion, to ensure those suffering from mental illness receive the inpatient care they need. This is a positive step forward not just for Minnesotans, but for every American who suffers from mental illness and their loved ones, said Congressman Emmer. While there remains a severe shortage of mental health treatment across the nation, this long overdue guidance will allow states to navigate the outdated IMD exclusion law, a key contributor to that shortage. I am glad to see CMS take action following our letter and look forward to continue ensuring those who need care can get it. Through section 12003 of the 21st Century Cures Act which was signed into law in 2016, Congress required CMS to issue guidance for states in utilizing 1115 waivers to increase access to mental illness treatment. These waivers inform states on how they can redesign their mental health treatment systems and provide beneficiaries treatment in IMDs. Since 1965, the IMD exclusion law has significantly blocked access to treatment for those with substance use disorder or mental illness. Specifically, the federal government will not pay for their treatment services in facilities with more than 16 beds. Read Emmer's letter to CMS here and their response here. Read CMS guidance to states here. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/icymi-reps-emmer-crawford-and-marshall-hill-american-farmers-need-cuban ICYMI: Reps. Emmer, Crawford and Marshall in The Hill: American farmers need the Cuban market 2018-11-07 2018 2018-11 Republican House MN Tom Emmer E000294 emmer.house.gov     legacy American farmers need the Cuban marketBy Reps. Tom Emmer, Rick Crawford and Roger Marshall November 6, 2018 Farmers across the country are worried. Net farm income this year has hit a 12-year low and is expected to drop nearly 20 percent overall. With falling domestic demand, higher production prices, and competition from foreign producers already hurting our farmers, retaliatory tariffs on U.S. farm exports by China, the EU, Canada, Mexico and Turkey are an added weight on the shoulders of our growers and producers. American farmers are tough patriots, but they need strong export revenues to stay in business. Building new export outlets for American farmers and allied industries has become an imperative, and Cuba should be part of that mix. The list of farm sectors reeling from punitive foreign tariffs is long and getting longer. In soybeans, for example, nearly $14 billion worth of exports to China -- or roughly one third of total US soybean production in 2017 -- will be impacted by China's new tariffs. In dairy, retaliatory tariffs will cost our farmers $1.5 billion this year and another $3 billion in 2019. In pork, almost half of all U.S. exports are being impacted by tariffs. This is not just a near-term concern. Once foreign market share is lost, reclaiming those sales is an uphill fight. The positive reactions out of American agriculture to the new North American trade deal is testament to the urgent need for U.S. agribusiness outlets. In the case of Cuba, however, which offers an important growth opportunity just 90 miles away and an overnight voyage for shipping containers from U.S. Gulf and East Coast ports, a different solution is needed. Cuba is one of only a very few foreign markets where the potential for U.S. agricultural growth is quantifiable and achievable. That island spends $2 billion a year on agricultural imports to feed its 11 million people and 3 million annual tourists. Most of its imports are from Vietnam, China, the European Union, and other faraway locations, where freight… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://jasonlewis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=218 Lewis introduces The Workforce Reentry Act 2018-10-17 2018 2018-10 Republican House MN Jason Lewis L000587 jasonlewis.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C.- Congressman Jason Lewis (MN-02) issued the following statement after introducing H.R. 7069 The Workforce Reentry Act in the House yesterday morning. Breaking the cycle of incarceration and reducing recidivism will require an innovative approach towards helping ex-offenders reenter the workforce. My bill makes long-overdue reforms to an existing program, enhancing accountability to ensure individuals gain the skills they need to sustain meaningful employment. Helping these men and woman get back on the right track so they can contribute to our economy is critical to building a safer and stronger nation. Background: The Workforce Reentry Act reforms the existing Reentry Employment Opportunities (REO) program to prompt innovation and improvement in the reentry of ex-offenders into the workforce through competitive start-up grants, rigorous evaluation, and dissemination of best practices. Develops in-demand skills by prioritizing funding towards entities that provide programs or partnerships to equip ex-offenders with industry-recognized credentials in in-demand occupations, such as apprenticeship programs. Builds long-term success by requiring grant recipients to provide a 50% match of funds and a plan to continue effective programs with non-federal funds after the grant period concludes. Increases accountability and transparency by holding programs accountable for Workforce Innovation and Opportunity performance outcomes on employment, earnings, and credential attainment. Expands awareness around what works by requiring an independent evaluation and the dissemination of best practices, encouraging states, localities, and non-profits to pursue evidence-based approaches to ex-offender reentry into the workforce. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://jasonlewis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=219 Lewis hosts Tax Roundtable in South Saint Paul 2018-10-17 2018 2018-10 Republican House MN Jason Lewis L000587 jasonlewis.house.gov     legacy SOUTH SAINT PAUL- Congressman Jason Lewis (MN-02) issued the following statement after hosting a Tax Roundtable yesterday afternoon in South Saint Paul, where he was joined by local business employees and stakeholders to discuss how tax reform has benefited their businesses. After hosting today's Roundtable, it is clear the benefits Tax Cuts and Jobs Act are being seen throughout Minnesota and the Second District. With lowered individual rates, a doubled standard deduction and doubled child tax credit, individuals and families are seeing more money in their paychecks and increased savings. Small businesses in the Second District are thriving as well in part because of the lowered corporate and small businesses tax rate as well as the incentives to reinvest and expand. And as we've seen, when businesses thrive, their employees thrive. Wages have been increasing for employees across the country, and companies have given bonuses and provided expanded retirement benefits for their hardworking employees. It's great to come together with Minnesota businesses and stakeholders to hear their stories of personal and professional growth and prosperity thanks to tax reform! Roundtable Attendees: Schadegg Mechanical- Dan Schadegg Schadegg Mechanical- Keith Larson Waterous Co.- Bill Smith Waterous Co.- Denise Hemmer Broadcom- John Emling Braodcom- Sally Doherty UPS- Jeremy Welke Northland Auto Enterprises- Allen Lentsch River Heights Chamber of Commerce- Jennifer Gale Star Tribune Media Company- Chuck Brown ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-op-ed-star-tribune-working-together-works Emmer Op-Ed in the Star Tribune: Working Together Works 2018-10-16 2018 2018-10 Republican House MN Tom Emmer E000294 emmer.house.gov     legacy Working Together Works By Tom Emmer October 15, 2018 As we enter the home stretch of another election, which we are told could be the most important election of our lifetime, we reflect on what has been, when we should be talking about big ideas for our future. Unfortunately, American politics continues to devolve into sound bites, dark and unflattering pictures, outrageous allegations and campaign smear. When we seek the positive, we are told instead that negative works. Really? It's not OK if I disagree? When I ran for Congress, I promised to bring our Midwest values to Washington. As I engage in our uniquely American election process, I constantly reflect on my and my team's performance to date. Have we been working on solutions to the biggest problems facing America's future? As far as my promise to take our values to Washington, I know our team does that each day. The majority of Minnesotans, regardless of political perspective, do not appreciate smash-mouth politics. Minnesotans are better than that; Minnesotans deserve better than that. Minnesotans appreciate thoughtfulness, respect for one another, teamwork, understanding and, of course, a good hotdish. (I realize some believe winning this year's Minnesota Congressional Delegation Hotdish Competition is our most impressive accomplishment to date.) No matter on which side of the aisle, I have the utmost respect for my colleagues in Congress, especially those in our Minnesota delegation. After all, we share the same grueling schedules, we all deal with daily criticisms from those with whom we disagree (or are just plain disagreeable) and, ultimately, we all want the same things: a strong economy, safe communities, good schools, clean air and water, and a better future for the next generation of Americans. We really only differ on how to get there. Politics, like life in general, is all about relationships. That is why, since I was first elected to Congress, I have made it a priority to get to know my colleagues as people their likes and dislikes, what th… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/icymi-unleash-mobility-dignitaries-help-usher-i-94-expansion-editorial ICYMI: Unleash the Mobility dignitaries help usher in I-94 expansion By the Editorial Board 2018-10-15 2018 2018-10 Republican House MN Tom Emmer E000294 emmer.house.gov     legacy A new era in transportation for the northwest metro was heralded when a host of dignitaries broke ground for an Interstate 94 expansion project Friday, Oct. 12, in Albertville. The project will add a third lane in each direction from St. Michael to Albertville. ... Congressman Emmer added that transportation is one of the most important issues in this community. It's incredibly important to get three lanes all the way to St. Cloud. Not only did Commissioner Zelle agree with Emmer, but he made a big announcement: We are paving from Monticello to Clearwater and during construction, we'll make an additional lane a permanent lane. It's official! Photo Credit:Aaron Bronrn. ... The Minnesota Department of Transportation announced that this project will be included in the Corridors of Commerce funding. The project will receive the full $56 million necessary to complete the lane capacity expansion. The coalition's goal is to Unleash the Mobility with lane capacity expansion by providing an additional travel lane to I-94 in each direction from Maple Grove to St. Cloud, as well as the addition of auxiliary lanes to the Brockton Lane Interchange at the Rogers/Dayton border. --- CLICK HERE to read the full editorial online. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/klobuchar-emmer-announce-passage-bill-rename-federal-courthouse-honor Klobuchar, Emmer Announce Passage of Bill to Rename Federal Courthouse in Honor of Judge Diana Murphy 2018-10-10 2018 2018-10 Republican House MN Tom Emmer E000294 emmer.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar and Representative Tom Emmer's legislation to rename the federal courthouse in Minneapolis after Judge Diana Murphy, the first woman to serve on the Eighth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, has passed in both the Senate and House of Representatives. The bill now heads to the President's desk to be signed into law. Judge Murphy spent 38 years as a federal judge, including five years as the chair of the U.S. Sentencing Commission. She began serving on theU.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota in 1980 and served as Chief Judge from 1992 to 1994, when she was appointed to the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals. Judge Murphy served as the first and only woman on that federal appellate bench until 2013. Judge Murphy passed away earlier this year. Judge Diana Murphy was the first woman to serve on the Eighth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, and she was a tireless advocate for putting more women on the bench, Klobuchar said. Judge Murphy stood up for others and she did it with humor, joy and awe-inspiring achievement. She was a mentor and a friend, and this is a fitting tribute to a legal trailblazer. Judge Diana E. Murphy, the only woman to serve on the Eighth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals for nearly two decades, was a trailblazer with an incredible career in public service, Emmer said. While dozens of courthouses in our state bear the names of impactful Minnesotans, the Minneapolis federal courthouse does not. Renaming it in Judge Murphy's honor would serve as a fitting tribute to her impressive legacy. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/industry-groups-voice-support-emmers-digital-currency-and-blockchain Industry Groups Voice Support for Emmer's Digital Currency and Blockchain Legislation 2018-10-03 2018 2018-10 Republican House MN Tom Emmer E000294 emmer.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC - Blockchain industry groups are voicing their support for Congressman Tom Emmer's (MN-06) trio of bills to support these new and promising technologies. Specifically, the legislation expresses support for the industry and development of blockchain and digital asset technologies in the United States; provides regulatory clarity to entities that never take control of consumer funds; and establishes a safe harbor for taxpayers with forked digital assets. Emmer was also recently selected as a Co-Chair of the Congressional Blockchain Caucus. WHAT THEY'RE SAYING: As the impact of blockchain continues to expand across many industries, public-private collaboration on how to harness the benefits of this technology is more important than ever. The U.S. Chamber looks forward to partnering with lawmakers to help educate and convene stakeholders on the growing uses of blockchain. Legislative solutions like the recent bills introduced by Congressman Emmer are critical to this effort. We are pleased to work with co-chairs Emmer and Foster, and the entire Blockchain Caucus on the important work ahead. -Tim Day, Senior Vice President, Chamber Technology Engagement Center (CTEC), and Tom Quaadman, Executive Vice President, Center for Capital Markets Competitivenessat the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. The Blockchain Association was launched to work with policymakers to push for an informed and responsive regulatory environment. We applaud Rep. Emmer for his leadership. He understands that the token economy needs light-touch regulation and regulatory clarity in order to promote innovation and protect consumers.- Kristin Smith,Director of External Affairs,Blockchain Association Blockchain has the potential to profoundly impact digital transactions. Congressman Emmer is a leader in understanding and anticipating the potential for this transformative technology, most recently through his support for blockchain broadly and his efforts to clarify some of the salient issues facing the blockchain industry. We look forward to co… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://jasonlewis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=217 Lewis continually supports farmers and trade 2018-10-03 2018 2018-10 Republican House MN Jason Lewis L000587 jasonlewis.house.gov     legacy Lewis continually supports farmers and trade f t # e Washington, October 3, 2018 WASHINGTON, D.C.- Congressman Jason Lewis (MN-02) issued the following statement after the Administration announced their NAFTA renegotiations, creating the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Months ago, the House continued its work supporting our farmers and agricultural community by passing a Farm Bill. Our bill not only gave far more certainty to farmers, but included common sense reforms to the food stamp program. With the economy taking off, it's crucial we encourage ablebodied adults without dependents to get back into the job market through workforce training and modest work requirements.Unfortunately, some of my Democratic colleagues have focused on scoring political points instead of working towards a compromise. But while we continue our work getting the Farm bill across the finish line, I'm glad to say we're making significant progress toward improving trade relations. The newly announcedUSMCA agreement expandsmarket access for agricultural productsparticularly for dairy farmersand incentivizes domestic manufacturing, among other initiatives. Going forward, we must continue to expand on these successes by strengthening international trade relationships, especiallyprotections for America's intellectual property. The USMCA is a great start and puts American needs first by building on decades of trade relations between Canada, Mexico, and our great nation. f t # e 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-announces-nearly-500000-grant-wright-county-drug-court-program Emmer Announces Nearly $500,000 Grant for Wright County Drug Court Program 2018-10-02 2018 2018-10 Republican House MN Tom Emmer E000294 emmer.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC - Today Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) announced that the Bureau of Justice Assistance, under theU.S. Department of Justice, has awarded the Wright County Drug Court Program $498,716 to continue to provide rehabilitation services for Minnesotans struggling withsubstance use disorder. In an attempt to reduce recidivism and rehabilitate high risk chemically dependent adults, this grant will support the close monitoring of these individuals, through a collaboration by the judicial, medical and corrections facilities. We cannot arrest our way out of our nation's ongoing drug crisis, said Congressman Emmer.This grant provides the treatment Minnesotans need. I will continue to support similar efforts to rehabilitate and restore our communities rather than incarcerate them." In June, Congressman Emmer wrote a letter to the Bureau of Justice Assistance in support of Wright County's Drug Program. Read the letterhere. Read more about the Bureau of Justice Assistance Enhancement Grant here. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-introduces-common-sense-fix-recreational-vehicles-and-campers Emmer Introduces Common Sense Fix for Recreational Vehicles and Campers 2018-10-01 2018 2018-10 Republican House MN Tom Emmer E000294 emmer.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC - Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) introduced the Trailer and Camper Technical Corrections Actto provide consistency and clarity for recreational vehicle (RV) and camper dealers, their employees and consumers. While the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act made many important changes to the way businesses can deduct interest and depreciate expenses through clearer definitions and guidelines, towable RVs and campers were inadvertently excluded from the definition of Motor Vehicle, preventing dealers and retailers from obtaining critical financing when purchasing new inventory of RVs. "As the law is currently written, our RV dealers do not have the clarity and consistency they need, putting them at an unnecessary competitive disadvantage," said Congressman Emmer. "Since RV ownership continues to climb in Minnesota and across the country, it is imperative for Congress to immediately correct this oversight in the new tax law by passing this common sense legislation." Currently, all 50 states define and regulate towable RVs and campers as Motor Vehicles. Through a small, technical fix, Emmer's bill ensures that motorized and non-motorized campers and travel trailers are treated the same under the U.S. tax code. CLICK HERE to read the full text of the bill. Additional Background: Minnesota is home to over 400 RV businesses and 85 RV dealerships, employing over 3,400 Minnestoans. In Minnesota, the RV industry has an economic output of $969.7 million. A record high of approximately 10 million households in the United States own an RV. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://paulsen.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=22&itemid=2005 House Approves Sweeping Bipartisan Opioid Legislation 2018-09-29 2018 2018-09 Republican House MN Erik Paulsen P000594 paulsen.house.gov     legacy The U.S. House of Representatives today approved H.R. 6, the SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Act, sweeping bipartisan House-Senate legislation to combat the opioid epidemic. Congressman Erik Paulsen, a longtime leader in Congress in the fight against the opioid crisis, issued the following statement after passage: To Minnesota families and communities on the front lines of the opioid crisis: more help is on the way, said Paulsen following the bill's passage. It will help stop the flow of deadly synthetic drugs across our borders, establish new comprehensive opioid recovery centers and improve prescription drug monitoring programs. The end result will be less addiction, fewer overdoses, and safer Minnesota communities. The legislation includes Paulsen's Providing Reliable Options for Patients and Educational Resources Act,a bipartisan measure Paulsen authored alongside Rep. Ron Kind (D-Wis.). Seniors aren't immune from the opioid epidemic, and these measures will prevent addiction among seniors by educating them on alternative pain management treatments and the proper, safe disposal of prescription painkillers. It will help the more than 90,000 at-risk seniors from descending into a deadly spiral of addiction, Paulsen said. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://paulsen.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=22&itemid=2006 Paulsen Highlights Wins for Middle Class in House-Passed Tax Bills 2018-09-29 2018 2018-09 Republican House MN Erik Paulsen P000594 paulsen.house.gov     legacy The House of Representatives this week approved a package of three bills that makes permanent the tax relief for middle class taxpayer and small businesses enacted by the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act last year, helps families save and thrive, and spurs job creation through entrepreneurship. TheProtecting Family and Small Business Tax Cuts Act, the Family Savings Act and the American Innovation Act were all approved by the House this week. The package included several provisions specifically championed by Congressman Erik Paulsen (MN-03): Fosters Innovation and Entrepreneurship by helping startup businesses survive and thrive. Paulsen wrote about this provision and how entrepreneurship and innovation drives economic growth here, and also spoke on the House floor this week about this measure specifically. Entrepreneurs and start-ups are a key source of innovation and job creation, particularly in Minnesota, said Paulsen. But the tax code today puts them at a disadvantageThis bill changes that. It brings the tax regulations governing start-ups into the 21st century. It will help entrepreneurs in capital-intensive sectors like medical devices make the necessary investments in research and development and manufacturing to grow and hire. Makes College More Affordable for Families by making student loans qualified expenses to be paid for with 529 tax-free college savings plans. Today, student loan payments are not a qualified expense, and withdrawing funds from the 529 to make student loan payments results in the funds being taxed as ordinary income, plus a 10% penalty. This legislation would solve this problem by expanding the list of 529 qualified expenses to include student loan payments, said Paulsen in remarks on the House floor. It would allow the family to use up to $10,000 in 529 savings to help pay down loans. This will make it easier to pay off loans and mitigate the anxiety that comes with starting a career after graduation. Lowers Health Care Costs for Seniors by extending the expan… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://jasonlewis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=214 Lewis votes to make individual tax cuts permanent 2018-09-28 2018 2018-09 Republican House MN Jason Lewis L000587 jasonlewis.house.gov     legacy Lewis votes to make individual tax cuts permanent f t # e Washington, September 28, 2018 WASHINGTON, D.C.- Congressman Jason Lewis (MN-02) issued the following statement after voting in favor of Tax Reform 2.0, which includes making individual tax cuts permanent. Americans have seen bigger paychecks, wage growth, a strengthening economy, small business expansion and more thanks to the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. This week I was proud to build upon this growth by supporting Tax Reform 2.0, which includes making individual tax cuts permanent to help hard-working Minnesotan keep more of their hard-earned money and save for their futures. This tax reform package also gives certainty to our small businesses so they can plan and grow, and we ensured our tax code encourages new and innovate start-up businesses. We also helped families save more by eliminating age restrictions for retirement plans and expanded 529 plans so they can be used on apprenticeships and home schooling costs. ### f t # e 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://jasonlewis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=215 Lewis’ bipartisan Juvenile Justice Reform Act passes House 2018-09-28 2018 2018-09 Republican House MN Jason Lewis L000587 jasonlewis.house.gov     legacy Lewis' bipartisan Juvenile Justice Reform Act passes House f t # e Washington, September 28, 2018 WASHINGTON, D.C.- Congressman Jason Lewis (MN-02) issued the following statement after his Juvenile Justice Reform Act, which he and Congressman Bobby Scott (VA-03) have worked on with their colleagues in the Senate, passed the House this afternoon. Meaningful juvenile justice reform has been needed for decades and I've been working hard with Rep. Scott to deliver legislation for Minnesotans and Americans across the country that gives troubled kids a second chance. After working with our counterparts in the Senate, I am pleased our consensus bill unanimously passed the House today. With today's progress, we're one step closer to implementing the long overdue changes our juvenile justice system needs. Background: The Juvenile Justice Reform Act prioritizes evidence-based practices and specifically protects at-risk groups, including girls who have survived human trafficking and pregnant juveniles. The bill gives flexibility to states and local communities to best meet the needs of delinquent youth and improve public safety, including requiring judges to consider whether it's in the interest of justice' for a juvenile awaiting an adult trial to be held in an adult detention facility. Through the JJRA, Lewis will work to improve accountability and oversight to deliver positive outcomes for our communities and protect taxpayers. Statements of support: Justice for Youth R Street Institute Fight Crime Local law enforcement knows we need this. Red Wing Police Chief Pohlman on the Juvenile Justice Reform Act f t # e 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://jasonlewis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=213 DOT orders long overdue review on Met Council compliance 2018-09-25 2018 2018-09 Republican House MN Jason Lewis L000587 jasonlewis.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C.- Congressman Jason Lewis (MN-02) issued the following statement regarding The Department of Transportation's issuance of a federal review of the Met Council's compliance with federal requirements in response to a request from Lewis' office. It's high time the Department of Transportation officially reviewed the Met Council's standing given their refusal to comply with federal law. By deliberately excluding locally elected officials from their board, the Council has utterly failed in their duty to be held accountable to the taxpayers of the seven county metro area they serve. Considering the Met Council is the only MPO in the country that has the independent authority to raise taxes as well as having a budget greater than 17 of the top 20 MPOs combined, it is grossly unacceptable for them to continue acting outside of federal compliance. The Department of Transportation under the Obama Administration even recommended that the Met Council move to have elected officials on their boardyet they still disobeyed. An official review of their structural compliance is long overdue and it's time to finally bring transparency and accountability to the Met Council board. Background: MAP-21 required that federally recognized MPOs that participate in transit improvement program planning, long-range capital plans, coordination of transit services, and that carry out other state activities, all of which rely on federal funding and grants, meet certain requirements. These requirements include a board makeup of locally elected officials, public transportation officials, and appropriate state officials. The Metropolitan Council (Met Council) currently has a Transportation Advisory Board (TAB) that consists of local elected officials, but in August of 2015, the Federal Highway Administration and the Federal Transit Administration ruled that the TAB lacked any voting authority and therefore the Met Council did not meet the threshold of MPO compliance. Unfortunately, the Obama administration used a separate claus… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-spearheads-groundbreaking-legislation-support-blockchain Emmer Spearheads Groundbreaking Legislation to Support Blockchain Technology and Digital Currencies 2018-09-21 2018 2018-09 Republican House MN Tom Emmer E000294 emmer.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC - Today Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06), who was just named a co-chair of the Congressional Blockchain Caucus, announced he will introduce three groundbreaking bills to support blockchain technology and digital currencies. Specifically, the legislation expresses support for the industry and development of these promising technologies in the United States, provides clarity to entities that never take control of consumer funds, and establishes a safe harbor for taxpayers with forked digital assets. The United States should prioritize accelerating the development of blockchain technology and create an environment that enables the American private sector to lead on innovation and furthergrowth, which is why I am introducing these bills, said Congressman Emmer. Legislators should be embracing emerging technologies and providing a clear regulatory system that allows them to flourish in the United States. About the bills: Resolution Supporting Digital Currencies and Blockchain Technology Expresses support for the industry and its development in the United States. Like the internet, the federal government should provide a light touch, consistent, and simple legal environment. Read morehere. Blockchain Regulatory Certainty Act Affirms that certain blockchain related entities that never take control of consumer funds do not need to register as a money transmitter. Examples of these entities include "miners" that validate network integrity and multisignature providers that provide enhanced asset security to users. Read more here. Safe Harbor for Taxpayers with Forked Assets Act Taxpayers can only comply with the law when the law is clear. This bill will provide a safe harbor for taxpayers with "forked" digital assets. Further it will restrict fines against individuals that attempt to report these assets until the IRS provides any type of guidance regarding the appropriate means of reporting them.Read morehere. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-emmer-foster-announced-co-chairs-congressional-blockchain-caucus Reps. Emmer, Foster Announced as Co-Chairs of the Congressional Blockchain Caucus 2018-09-21 2018 2018-09 Republican House MN Tom Emmer E000294 emmer.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC - Today Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) and Congressman Bill Foster (IL-11) were announced as co-chairmen of the Congressional Blockchain Caucus. They join Congressman Jared Polis (CO-02) and Congressman David Schweikert (AZ-06) as leaders of the Caucus. This is an exciting time for blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies, and I look forward to taking on this new leadership role, said Congressman Emmer. The Caucus is a platform for industry and government to come together to study and understand the implications of these new technologies. Together we plan to help fill in the gaps when it comes to fully understanding these new technological advancements in order for Congress to embrace and support all they have to offer the next generation and beyond. Blockchain is a disruptive technology that will change the way we do business in almost every sector. As the incoming Democratic co-chair of the Blockchain Caucus, I am proud to join my colleagues to lead Congress so that policymakers and industry can work together to realize this promise and unleash its economic potential in the United States and around the world, said Congressman Foster. I am thrilled to have my colleagues Reps. Tom Emmer and Bill Foster join myself and Rep. Jared Polis as co-chairs of the Congressional Blockchain Caucus. Reps. Emmer and Foster are already leaders in this space on the Financial Services Committee, which makes their addition essential in helping grow the Blockchain Caucus towards its future goals, said Congressman Schweikert. Welcome to Representative Foster and Representative Emmer, as co-chairs of the Blockchain Caucus. I'm so pleased we are able to continue the tradition of having bipartisan co-chairs, said Congressman Polis. A lot has developed since I founded the Blockchain Caucus in 2016. The Blockchain Caucus continues to evolve and be used in so many new ways. It has the potential to reshape everything from cryptocurrencies to supply chains to banking to property titling - decentralizing cybersecurity and r… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/nfu-honors-emmer-champion-family-agriculture-golden-triangle-award NFU Honors Emmer as Champion of Family Agriculture with Golden Triangle Award 2018-09-14 2018 2018-09 Republican House MN Tom Emmer E000294 emmer.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC -National Farmers Union (NFU) recognized Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) with the Golden Triangle Award,the family farm organization's highest legislative honor, for his leadership and support at the federal policymaking level for family farmers, ranchers and their rural communities. Congressman Emmer receives the Golden Triangle Award from NFU President Roger Johnson and other NFU members in Washington, D.C. I am honored to be recognized by the National Farmers Union but even more so to work with them on behalf of Minnesota's farmers and ranchers. I am especially appreciative for their support of the STRESS Act to end farmers' mental health crisis, said Congressman Emmer. The Golden Triangle Award recognizes farm and food champions in Congress that display outstanding leadership on the issues that are important to both our industry and our organization. We're appreciative of their insight and devotion to securing the nation's food supply for the good of both American family farmers and consumers, said NFU President Roger Johnson. The Golden Triangle, first presented in 1988, symbolizes the core principles of the Farmers Union organization: education, cooperation, and legislation. This year's Golden Triangle honorees were selected for their leadership and dedication to improving the livelihoods of family farmers and ranchers. Learn more about Congressman Emmer's STRESS Act here. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-announces-recipients-fbi-directors-award-excellence-house-floor Emmer Announces Recipients of the FBI Director's Award for Excellence on House Floor 2018-09-13 2018 2018-09 Republican House MN Tom Emmer E000294 emmer.house.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) took to the House floor to announce the recipients from Minnesota's law enforcement who are receiving the FBI Director's Award for Excellence for their enduring work on the disappearance of Jacob Wetterling: Stearns County Deputy/Investigator Dennis Kern, Former Captain Pam Jensen, Retired Bureau of Criminal Apprehension Agent Ken McDonald, Federal Bureau of Investigation Special AgentShane Ball, and; Federal Bureau of Investigation Special AgentChris Boeckers. Watch Congressman Emmer speak on the House floorhere: Click hereto watch. Full transcript: Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor five incredible members Minnesota's law enforcement, each of whom are deservedly receiving the FBI Director's Award for Excellence: Stearns County Deputy/Investigator Dennis Kern, former Captain Pam Jensen, retired Bureau of Criminal Apprehension Agent Ken McDonald, and Federal Bureau of Investigation Special Agents Shane Ball and Chris Boeckers. 29 years ago, on October 22nd, 11 year old Jacob Wetterling disappeared. Minnesota was left in shock and horror. Our state hoped and prayed for decades that Jacob would return home. Though unable to change the tragic outcome of Jacob's life, Deputy Kern, Captain Jensen, Agent McDonald, Agent Ball and Agent Boeckers were able to offer some peace and comfort by apprehending Jacob's murderer. Mr. Speaker, words cannot adequately express the gratitude that the Wetterling family and all Minnesotans have for the law enforcement who never stopped searching for Jacob, who never gave up. To Deputy Kern, Captain Jensen, Agent McDonald, Agent Ball and Agent Boeckers, on behalf of all Minnesotans: Thank you and God bless you I yield back. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://jasonlewis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=212 Lewis votes for quality water infrastructure development 2018-09-13 2018 2018-09 Republican House MN Jason Lewis L000587 jasonlewis.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON D.C.- Congressman Jason Lewis (MN-02) issued the following statement after the America's Water Infrastructure Act of 2018, which incorporates the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA), passed with unanimous bipartisan support this afternoon in the House. Ensuring our country maintains and builds quality infrastructure to support our transportation and water resource needs is a top priority of mine as a member of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. With WRDA 2018, we are continuing to invest in our nation's ports, locks, dams, waterways, and other water infrastructure to sustain and improve the transportation and commerce supported by our country's waters. It is vital that our infrastructure investment keeps pace with our growth and development as a nation. Background: The America's Water Infrastructure Act of 2018 includes WRDA, which focuses on building and investing in water infrastructure and resources to strengthen trade and facilitate commerce, in addition to incorporating multiple other water system overhauls such as: -Modernizing drinking water infrastructure by providing states and utilities with compliance and asset management tools -Addressing antiterrorism and resilience measures in public water systems -Increasing consumer transparency measures for water quality -Promoting hydropower development and increasing consumer participation in rate-setting -Simplifying the process for states to receive federal funding for storm and wastewater systems -Providing technical assistance to small, rural, and tribal communities who may struggle to meet their clean water needs -Authorizing resources for combating sewage overflow -Supporting apprenticeships and on-the-job training in the water utility sector and helping connect students to successful career paths that benefit our communities ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://paulsen.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=22&itemid=2003 Paulsen Reaffirms Commitment to Pre-Existing Condition Protections 2018-09-13 2018 2018-09 Republican House MN Erik Paulsen P000594 paulsen.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTONCongressman Erik Paulsen reaffirmed his commitment to protecting access to healthcare for Americans with pre-existing conditions by co-sponsoring H.R. 1121, the Pre-Existing Conditions Protections Act. The bill aims to reaffirm guaranteed health care access, ensure that enrollees cannot have benefits excluded from a plan due to a pre-existing condition, and that patients will not pay more based on their health care status. I understand that people want and deserve clarity about preexisting protections and the law. Sick Americans don't deserve to be treated unfairly because they have a pre-existing condition through no fault of their own,said Congressman Paulsen.This legislation underscores the importance of preserving protections for Minnesotans with pre-existing conditions and guarantee they're able to access affordable health coverage. Specifically, the bill would maintain the: Requirement for health insurance to cover preexisting conditions, Requirement for health insurers to accept every employer and every individual applying for coverage, Prohibition against health insurers discriminating against individuals based on health status factors, Prohibition against collecting genetic information in connection with issuing health insurance, and Requirements for workplace wellness programs connected to health insurance. Last year, Paulsen voted in favor of the American Health Care Act, which included the following provision (Sec. 137(b)) SEC. 137. CONSTRUCTIONS. (b) NO LIMITING ACCESS TO COVERAGE FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH PREEXISTING CONDITIONS.Nothing in this Act shall be construed as permitting health insurance issuers to limit access to health coverage for individuals with preexisting conditions. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://paulsen.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=22&itemid=2002 Paulsen Medicare Cost Plan Bill Sails to Passage on House Floor 2018-09-12 2018 2018-09 Republican House MN Erik Paulsen P000594 paulsen.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON TheEmpowering Seniors' Enrollment Decision Act, bipartisan legislation authored by Congressmen Erik Paulsen (R/MN-03) and Ron Kind (D/WI-03),passed the House of Representatives today with unanimous support. The legislation extends the Medicare open enrollment period for seniors currently enrolled in Medicare Cost Plans that will terminate at the end of the year. Choosing a Medicare option is a big decision, and no Minnesota senior should be rushed in making such a choice through no fault of their won,said Congressman Paulsen. Giving seniors more time to study their options will help them make the best decision as they navigate a cumbersome and confusing process. The legislation was approved by the House Ways and Means Committee with unanimous bipartisan support last week. It now awaits action by the Senate. More information on the legislation is available here. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-receives-taxpayers-friend-award-fiscally-responsible-voting-record Emmer Receives "Taxpayers' Friend Award" for Fiscally Responsible Voting Record 2018-09-11 2018 2018-09 Republican House MN Tom Emmer E000294 emmer.house.gov     legacy Washington, D.C.- Today Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) was honored by theNational Taxpayers Union (NTU) for having one of the strongest voting records inCongress for supporting lower taxes, limited government, and economic freedom. I am honored to be recognized by the National Taxpayers Union, said Congressman Emmer. Hardworking Minnesotans maintain a budget, spending within their means while taking good care of their families.Our government should follow their example and do the same. Only lawmakers with a voting record that is the best-of-the-best will earn NTU's Taxpayers' Friend Award, said Pete Sepp, President of NTU. Congressman Emmer has demonstrated a tireless commitment to supporting taxpayers' interests in Washington, and a dedication to solving the government's tax-and-spend problems with action rather than just words. Fixing America's budget problems takes hard work, and Congressman Emmer has been doing that work every single day." This year Congressman Emmer scored 86 percent on the National Taxpayers Union's rating scale compared to the House average of just 51 percent. NTU's rating is calculated by evaluating every vote that has an impact on tax, spending, trade, and regulatory policy. See NTU's full 2017 congressional scorecard and further analysis here. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://paulsen.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=22&itemid=2004 Paulsen, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan "Gag Clause" Legislation 2018-09-10 2018 2018-09 Republican House MN Erik Paulsen P000594 paulsen.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON Congressman Erik Paulsen (R/MN-03) joined Reps. Buddy Carter (R-Ga.), Anna Eshoo (D-Ca.), Lloyd Doggett (D-Tx.) and others on Friday to introduce the Know the Cost Act, bipartisan legislation that prohibits gag clause provisions that limit the ability of pharmacists to inform patients of the most cost-efficient way of paying for medications. Currently, Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) may include requirements in contracts that prevent pharmacists from providing advice to their patients on the best and cheapest out-of-pocket alternatives to medications covered under insurance. This is commonly known as a "gag clause." As a result, patients may be paying more for their prescriptions than is warranted. The Know the Cost Act prohibits group health plans offered by employers and individual health insurance plans, as well as Medicare Advantage and Medicare Part D Plans, from restricting a pharmacy's ability to inform a patient about the lower cost, out-of-pocket price options for their prescription. Additionally, the measure will require notifications to Medicare beneficiaries of the potential outcomes of paying out-of-pocket rather than with insurance. Families shouldn't have to walk into a pharmacy wondering if they're overpaying for their medications,Rep. Paulsen said. This bipartisan bill will improve transparency in drug pricing and lower out-of-pocket healthcare costs for middle-class Minnesota families. The measure is similar to legislation introduced by Paulsen and Eshoo last month, and reflects cooperation between members of both the House Ways and Means and Energy and Commerce Committees. This measure was approved on Friday by the Energy and Commerce Committee's Health Subcommittee. Similar legislation was passed by unanimous consent in the Senate last week. The legislation now moves to consideration by the full House Energy and Commerce Committee. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://paulsen.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=22&itemid=2001 Paulsen Statement on USDA Boundary Waters Decision 2018-09-07 2018 2018-09 Republican House MN Erik Paulsen P000594 paulsen.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON Congressman Erik Paulsen (MN-03) today issued the following statement after the U.S. Department of Agriculture announced it would remove a significant roadblock to copper-nickel mining in Minnesota's Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness: This decision threatens the Boundary Waters Minnesota's Yellowstone by ending an ongoing environmental assessment evaluating the threat posed by sulfide mining on the doorstep of America's most-visited wilderness area,said Congressman Paulsen.I call on Secretary Purdue to reconsider this decision and ensure the future of this fragile ecosystem is guided by science. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-celebrates-major-victory-minnesota Emmer Celebrates Major Victory for Minnesota 2018-09-06 2018 2018-09 Republican House MN Tom Emmer E000294 emmer.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C. - Following the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) announcement to cancel the Obama administration's political mineral withdrawal in the Superior National Forest, Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) released the following statement: The Department of Agriculture's move today to cancel the federal withdrawal is a major victory for Minnesota. My MINER Act demonstrated the strong bipartisan support that existsfor unleashing our state's full mining potential. Despite arguments that Washington should make these decisions for us, now, Minnesota's mineral rights are finally restored back to the people of our great state. I am grateful to the President, Secretary Zinke, Secretary Purdue and the entire administration for their support in our efforts to fully restore Minnesota's right to explore. Background: During the last days of his administration, President Obama threatened more than 425,000 acres of land with a prohibition on development, potentially instating a 20-year ban on industry activity, including up to two-years for a temporary study. This unchecked move by the former administration decimated local economies, specifically a projected loss of nearly 17,000 jobs and billions of dollars of revenue. In October 2017, Congressman EmmerintroducedMinnesota's Economic Rights (MINER) in the Superior National Forest Act to restore Minnesota's right to exploreand, if environmentally appropriate, mine valuable precious metals. The HousepassedEmmer's MINER Act in November 2017 followed closely byactionfrom the Department of Interior to renew the mineral leases in the area. In June 2018, President Trump's announcedhis commitment to ending the two-year study and fully restoring Minnesota's right to explore during his visit to Duluth. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://jasonlewis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=211 Rep. Lewis receives “Taxpayers’ Friend Award” 2018-09-06 2018 2018-09 Republican House MN Jason Lewis L000587 jasonlewis.house.gov     legacy Rep. Lewis receives Taxpayers' Friend Award f t # e Washington, September 6, 2018 WASHINGTON, D.C.- Congressman Jason Lewis (MN-02) issued the following statement after receiving the Taxpayers' Friend Award by the National Taxpayers Union (NTU) this morning. Thanks to the Republican pro-growth agenda, we're delivering economic prosperity and tax relief to the majority of Americans. I'm proud to have supported initiatives like the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, which through lowered individual rates, a doubled standard deduction, doubling the child tax credit, and more, has given our nation's citizens more money in their paychecks, trying to reduce our country's spending and increasing fiscal accountability, as well as other trade and regulatory policy with Minnesota taxpayer benefits in mind. It's an honor to be one of only 66 House members to receive NTU's Taxpayers' Friend Award, and I'll continue to work toward promoting taxpayers' interests in Washington. ### f t # e 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-announces-over-300000-grant-telehealth-services-st-cloud Emmer Announces Over $300,000 Grant for Telehealth Services in St. Cloud 2018-09-05 2018 2018-09 Republican House MN Tom Emmer E000294 emmer.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC - Today Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) announced that theU.S. Department of Health and Human Services has awarded CentraCare Health in St. Cloud, MN a grant of $324,290 to provide telehealth services for Minnesotans in rural areas. Specifically this grant will support implementation and evaluation of broad telehealth networks to deliver 24-hour Emergency Department (ED) consultation services via telehealth to rural providers. This grant will help make behavioral health care services more available for Minnesotans living in the Sixth Congressional District, said Congressman Emmer.I look forward to more opportunities to expand telehealth services across rural Minnesota. This is a great opportunity to deliver innovative mental health services in areas not possible before. We look forward to applying telehealth technologies so that integrated, patient-centered behavioral health services are available in our larger service area, said Rachael Lesch, RN, BSN, MBA, Senior Director of Population Health and Virtual Health at CentraCare. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://jasonlewis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=210 Lewis promotes smarter financial planning for students 2018-09-05 2018 2018-09 Republican House MN Jason Lewis L000587 jasonlewis.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C.- Congressman Jason Lewis (MN-02) issued the following statement after the House passed H.R. 1635, the Empowering Students Through Enhanced Financial Counseling Act this afternoon, with Lewis' amendment attached. Too often we have students taking on unmanageable student loans with insufficient student and parent financial literacy at the time of borrowing. Under this legislation, students will gain more knowledge about their financial planning through comprehensive counseling before they agree to take out loans. My amendment builds on this idea by also including students' parents in the process, specifically by notifying them that their child may qualify for and should consider scholarships, grants, and federal work study jobs prior to taking out any loans. Working to properly equip students and families with greater awareness on their financial options can help protect them from over-borrowing and improve loan repayment. Background: H.R. 1635: Ensures all borrowers who participate in the federal loan program receive interactive counseling each year that reflects their individual borrowing situation. Provides awareness about the financial obligations students and parents are accumulating, including how interest accumulates and projected monthly payments to pay off the loan, by requiring borrowers to consent each year before receiving federal student loans. Informs low-income students about the terms and conditions of the Pell Grant program through annual counseling that will be provided to all grant recipients. Directs the Secretary to maintain a consumer-tested, interactive counseling tool institutions can use to provide annual loan counseling, exit counseling, and annual Pell counseling. Congressman Lewis' amendment: A notification for the parent borrower that their student may qualify and should consider accepting any grant, scholarship, or work-study job prior to borrowing parent PLUS loans. An explanation that parent borrowers can start paying off the loan while their child … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://paulsen.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=22&itemid=2000 Bipartisan Paulsen "Cost Plan" Bill Clears Committee Hurdle 2018-09-05 2018 2018-09 Republican House MN Erik Paulsen P000594 paulsen.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON The House Ways and Means Committee today approved bipartisan legislation authored by Rep. Erik Paulsen (MN-03) that gives beneficiaries of Medicare Cost Plans more time to enroll in another Medicare coverage option after their existing Cost Plans are discontinued at the end of 2018. Medicare Cost Plans are plans administered by private insurers that offer Medicare Advantage plans. The Cost Plans will no longer be offered by insurers after 2018, and current enrollees will need to choose an alternative Medicare Advantage or traditional Medicare coverage option. Paulsen's legislation extends the Medicare open enrollment period which ends December through February for Cost Plan enrollees. Minnesota seniors deserve time to choose the Medicare plan that works best for their healthcare needs,said Paulsen. Selecting a Medicare plan can be confusing and time-consuming, which is why giving our seniors more time to learn about their options will help them make better-informed decisions as they navigate their Medicare choices. Of the more than 630,000 cost plan beneficiaries nationwide, nearly 400,000 of them live in Minnesota. Paulsen's bill was co-authored with Rep. Ron Kind (D-Wis.) and approved unanimously by the Ways and Means Committee today. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://jasonlewis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=208 Lewis advocates for protecting constitutional rights of Americans 2018-08-30 2018 2018-08 Republican House MN Jason Lewis L000587 jasonlewis.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C.- Congressman Jason Lewis (MN-02) issued the following statement after participating in a criminal justice policy event yesterday afternoon, discussing the importance of criminal justice reform and what has been done at both local and federal levels to do so. Criminal justice reform is key to protecting the constitutional rights of Americans. With more than 4,500 federal crimes on the book, the federal government has overextended its power into state jurisdictions and doubled down on mandatory minimums which neglect to take unique situations in to account when sentencing. These misguided policies have fed into a cycle of recidivism, a misuse of taxpayer dollars, and a broken justice system. This is why I've worked over the past year to introduce both The Juvenile Justice Reform Act and the SAFE Justice Act with my colleague Congressman Bobby Scott (VA-03), why I cosponsored the Second Chance Reauthorization, supported the FIRST STEP Act, and cosponsored the Fifth Amendment Integrity Restoration Actto address these wrongs. I look forward to continuing to fight for much-needed criminal justice reform. Quotes in support: Jason, I want to congratulate and thank you for your leadership and outstanding work on your bipartisan Juvenile Justice Reform Act. Please let me know what I can do to help. - Congressman Rick Nolan I strongly commend the bipartisan efforts of the SAFE Justice Act the SAFE Justice Act adopts models that states have used to successfully cut prison costs and the prison population while reducing crime rates. Congress should immediately pass this bill. Hilary Shelton, Director, NAACP Local law enforcement knows we need this. Red Wing Police Chief Pohlman on the Juvenile Justice Reform Act The principles underlying the SAFE Justice Act would increase public safety, foster human dignity, and hold the Bureau of Prisons more accountable for the billions in taxpayer money it spendsThese are principles on which Liberals and Conservatives can find common ground. - David Safavian, t… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://jasonlewis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=207 Lewis hosts MPO Roundtable to discuss increasing Met Council accountability 2018-08-29 2018 2018-08 Republican House MN Jason Lewis L000587 jasonlewis.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C.- Congressman Jason Lewis (MN-02) issued the following statement after hosting an MPO Roundtable this morning, joined by various County Commissioners, State Representatives, and MPO stakeholders to discuss Metropolitan Planning Organization reform for the Twin Cities' Met Council. For years, I have expressed concern over the priorities of our regional MPO, the Met Council, and the lack of accountability they have to those they represent. As this Roundtable showed, I am not alone in my concerns. The Met Council is the only MPO in the nation that doesn't have locally elected representation on its board while also wielding the power to independently tax. My amendment, which unanimously passed the House this past spring attached to the FAA Reauthorization, requires the Met Council to fall into federal compliance and put an elected official on the board. Moving forward, I urge our Senators to support this initiative as well. Background: MAP-21 required that federally recognized MPOs that participate in transit improvement program planning, long-range capital plans, coordination of transit services, and that carry out other state activities, all of which rely on federal funding and grants, meet certain requirements. These requirements include a board makeup of locally elected officials, public transportation officials, and appropriate state officials. The Metropolitan Council (Met Council) currently has a Transportation Advisory Board (TAB) that consists of local elected officials, but in August of 2015, the Federal Highway Administration and the Federal Transit Administration ruled that the TAB lacked any voting authority and therefore the Met Council did not meet the threshold of MPO compliance. Unfortunately, the Obama administration used a separate clause in federal law to grandfather the Met Council into compliance. However, despite ruling in their favor, even Obama's DOT agreed change is preferred, stating we would encourage the Council to move toward the structure described in 23 U.S.C. 134… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://jasonlewis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=206 Lewis advocates for transit connection to DCTC 2018-08-28 2018 2018-08 Republican House MN Jason Lewis L000587 jasonlewis.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C.- Congressman Jason Lewis (MN-02) issued the following statement after speaking at the Route 420 Ceremonial Opening this afternoon. Dakota County Technical College (DCTC) has long been a resource for students in the community looking to learn technical skills, but too many have lacked the ability to take advantage. Over the past year I have promoted linking MVTA's lines to the technical college, and I'm proud to say that the 420 extension will connect our communities to DCTC, allowing more students to pursue a skilled education. Background: Since coming to Congress, Representative Lewis has advocated at the local and federal levels for expanded MVTA operations. They are a critical provider of transit through the suburbs of the Twin Cities, covering both Dakota and Scott Counties. Congressman Lewis has formally written to the US Department of Transportation on behalf of MVTA on several occasions and urged completion of the DCTC connection since May 2017. A 2016 DCTC Student Survey indicated 30 percent of DCTC students were interested in using transit service. In addition to the connection from Rosemount Transit Station, Route 420 serves Apple Valley Transit Station, which has connections with the Red Line (Apple Valley Mall of America), Route 477 (Lakeville Minneapolis) and Route 442 (Burnsville Center-Apple Valley). ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://jasonlewis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=205 Reps. Lewis and Shimkus promote federal accountability of nuclear spent fuel storage 2018-08-23 2018 2018-08 Republican House MN Jason Lewis L000587 jasonlewis.house.gov     legacy Reps. Lewis and Shimkus promote federal accountability of nuclear spent fuel storage f t # e Washington, August 23, 2018 WASHINGTON, D.C.- Congressman Jason Lewis (MN-02) issued the following statement after attending a tour and Energy Roundtable at the Prairie Island Nuclear Plant this afternoon with Chairman John Shimkus (IL-15) and members of the Red Wing and Prairie Island Indian communities. The Prairie Island Nuclear Generation Plant has carried the burden and cost of long term nuclear spent fuel for far too long because the federal government has neglected its promise to local communities and power plants around the country to open a national repository for spent nuclear fuel. Joined today by Environment Subcommittee Chairman Shimkus and members of the Red Wing and Prairie Island Indian communities, we came together to discuss storage alternatives, as we owe it to our communities to remove this risk on local sites. Background: Chairman John Shimkus authored the Nuclear Waste Policy Amendments Act of 2017, H.R. 3053, which provides practical reforms to the nation's nuclear waste management policy to ensure the federal government's legal obligations to dispose of spent nuclear fuel and high-level waste are fulfilled. ### f t # e 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://jasonlewis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=204 Lewis tours Hancock Concrete Products for National Concrete Pipe Week 2018-08-22 2018 2018-08 Republican House MN Jason Lewis L000587 jasonlewis.house.gov     legacy Lewis tours Hancock Concrete Products for National Concrete Pipe Week f t # e Washington, August 22, 2018 WASHINGTON D.C.- Congressman Jason Lewis issued the following statement after visiting Hancock Concrete Products in Cannon Falls yesterday as a part of National Concrete Pipe Week. It was great to join Hancock Concrete employees, state representatives, and local community members to discuss our state's infrastructure needsspecifically the workforce needs. Employers like Hancock Concrete Products are struggling to find qualified technical workers and look to hire right out of high school. Expanding career and technical training opportunities for students can both help fill these in-demand positions and provide education for 21st century jobs. ### f t # e 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://jasonlewis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=201 Lewis joins Administrator Linda McMahon for Small Business Roundtable 2018-08-13 2018 2018-08 Republican House MN Jason Lewis L000587 jasonlewis.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON D.C.- Congressman Jason Lewis (MN-02) issued the following statement after joining Administrator of the Small Business Administration, Linda McMahon, and several Minnesota business owners at a Small Business Roundtable in Eagan this afternoon, where they discussed the benefits of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act and workforce needs. Our historic tax reform, as well as numerous Republican regulatory reforms, are directly benefitting more the over 500,000 small businesses in Minnesota. And when businesses thrive, they can grow and distribute their gains to their hard working employees. It was great to be joined by Administrator McMahon today to speak with local business owners about their positive reactions to the Tax Cuts & Jobs Act, and also about their continuing needs like workforce development. One of my priorities as a Congressman has been to expand career and technical education (CTE) opportunities, so I was glad to discuss the importance of providing quality, technical training to young people so they can fill the thousands of in-demand, skilled jobs employers are looking to fill. Business development is key to growing a strong economy and prosperous country, and I'm proud to support a successful, pro-growth agenda on behalf of the Second District. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://jasonlewis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=196 Lewis tours new Minnesota Vikings’ training facility 2018-08-10 2018 2018-08 Republican House MN Jason Lewis L000587 jasonlewis.house.gov     legacy Lewis tours new Minnesota Vikings' training facility f t # e Washington, August 10, 2018 WASHINGTON D.C.- Congressman Jason Lewis (MN-02) issued the following statement after visiting the new Minnesota Vikings' training facility, the TCO Performance Center, this past week during preseason training. As a Vikings fan myselfalmost as big a one as my wife LeighI was honored tovisit the Vikings' new home at the TCO Performance Centerand view firsthand the state of the art facility. It's especially great to welcome Minnesota's beloved Vikings to the Second District and witness the first training camp outside of Mankato in over 50 years! It's also veryexciting to see how this facility will positively impact the area for years to come, providing hundreds of new jobs to the districtand possibly many more as the campus expansion develops. But most importantly, I want to wish the team good luck in their first preseason game against the Denver Broncos this Saturday-- SKOL Vikings! ### f t # e 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://jasonlewis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=199 Lewis tours TransAmerican Strukturoc Inc. 2018-08-10 2018 2018-08 Republican House MN Jason Lewis L000587 jasonlewis.house.gov     legacy Lewis tours TransAmerican Strukturoc Inc. f t # e Washington, August 10, 2018 WASHINGTON, D.C.- Congressman Jason Lewis (MN-02) issued the following statement after visiting TransAmerican Strukturoc Inc. (TAS) in Eagan yesterday. It's great to connect with businesses, employees, and members of the Second District to discuss important issues facing our community. At TransAmerican Strukturoc, I was able to speak with employees on an array of various issues including the benefits of tax reform, the concerns on finding technically-skilled workers, and the ways in which Congress can help expand employee access to quality health care through health savings accounts (HSAs). ### f t # e 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://paulsen.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=22&itemid=1999 Bipartisan Paulsen-Eshoo Bill Targets Pharmacy "Gag Clauses" 2018-08-10 2018 2018-08 Republican House MN Erik Paulsen P000594 paulsen.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON Congressman Erik Paulsen (MN-03) and Congresswoman Anna Eshoo (CA-18) have introduced bipartisan legislation that takes aim at barriers that prevent pharmacists from informing consumers of the most cost-efficient way of paying for medications. Known as gag clauses, these rules prohibit pharmacists from proactively informing customers if the cost of a medication would be less out-of-pocket than if they paid through their insurance plan. With a gag clause in effect, consumers must specifically ask pharmacists if their medication is cheaper out-of-pocket. Pharmacists who volunteer this information could face penalties. Consumers overpaid an estimated $135 million for medication in 2013 alone due to gag clauses. The Paulsen-Eshoo legislation, the True Cost-sharing Of Seniors' drugs Transparency (True COST) Act, gives the Department of Health and Human Services the authority to prohibit gag clauses. The legislation is similar to bipartisan measures authored by Senators Susan Collins (R-ME) and approved by the Senate Health Committee in July. Rising drug costs are a growing problem for Minnesota seniors and families,said Congressman Paulsen. These gag clauses tie pharmacists' hands and keep them from getting more affordable medications to their patients. One of the factors in the rising costs of prescription drugs is due to a lack of transparency. Families in my Congressional District and across the country keep struggling to afford the cost of medications they need, Rep. Eshoo said. This legislation lifts the outrageous restrictions currently in place that prevent pharmacists from informing consumers of the most cost-efficient way to pay for their medications. Specifically, the True COST Act (H.R. 6641): Requires a study on the prevalence of gag clauses Gives the Secretary of Health and Human Services the authority to prohibit gag clauses across insurance markets Requires a pharmacy to inform a beneficiary of the effect of purchasing the drug out of pocket vs. through thei… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://jasonlewis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=195 Lewis hosts Career and Technical Education Roundtable 2018-08-09 2018 2018-08 Republican House MN Jason Lewis L000587 jasonlewis.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C.- Congressman Jason Lewis (MN-02) issued the following statement after concluding his Career and Technical Education Roundtable yesterday afternoon in Burnsville, where he was joined by community leaders, local business owners, and members of the labor community. Connecting young people with 21st Century job experience is a great way to get students on the track to succeed in filling much-needed, technical jobs. As a proponent of CTE programs, it's great to come together with people and organizations in the Second District that either provide training or support to those interested in skilled jobs. Employers are looking to hire technically skilled workers, and we can start bridging the current skills gap in our country through expanded CTE programming. List of Attendees: Jennifer Hildebrand, WSB & Associates, Inc. Alex Young, WSB & Associates, Inc. Kathy Funston, Career Pathways Coordinator for ISD 191 Russ Tesmer, CTE teacher from Burnsville HS Russ Hess, LiUna! Matt Campanario, Carpenter's Union Luke Palen, President, Spectro Alloys Corp. Jennifer Harmening, President, Burnsville Chamber Mike Kelley, Superintendent ISD 195 Scott Determan, Dean of Transportation, Industry, and Info Tech, DCTC ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://paulsen.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=22&itemid=1998 At Women in Business Forum, Paulsen Talks Trafficking 2018-08-07 2018 2018-08 Republican House MN Erik Paulsen P000594 paulsen.house.gov     legacy MINNEAPOLISCongressman Erik Paulsen (MN-03) joined Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and business leaders from across the Twin Cities at a forum hosted by the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce on efforts to combat human sex trafficking. The forum was part of the Chamber's Women in Business initiative, which seeks to bring together women business leaders with public policy makers for an exchange of ideas and perspectives on issues affecting Minnesota. Congressman Paulsen has been aleader in Congressin theeffort to combat human trafficking. Excerpts of Congressman Paulsen's remarks as prepared for delivery are below. For a long time, many thought of human trafficking as something that only happens in other countries, but the truth is it's happening in every one of our communities. In fact, human trafficking is the fastest-growing business of organized crime. The FBI has identified the Twin Cities as one of the nation's largest centers for trafficking, and each weekend as many as 45 Minnesota girls are sold for sex. Paulsen told the story of one 13 year old girl abducted into the sex trade and trafficked around the country. Dayanna was the oldest child in a family raised by a single mother. Her mother had no interest in taking care of Dayanna and her siblings, so Dayanna took it upon herself to look after her brothers and sisters. Looking for love and attention herself, Dayanna was seduced by a man who promised to treat her the way she deserved. He even called himself her boyfriend. At age 13, within days of running away, Dayanna found herself being trafficked in Philadelphia and Chicago, without a home and separated from her family. As tragic as this story is, her most heartbreaking comment was it was easier to be abused by a stranger than to continue to be abused by her mom. Sadly, this is happening to many young girls in America.' Paulsen discussed some of the bipartisan progress being made to combat sex trafficking and the work he's doing with lawmakers like Sen. Klobuchar. That's wh… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://paulsen.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=22&itemid=1997 Paulsen Bill Spurs Charitable Giving, Creates Tax-Advantaged "Flexible Giving Accounts" 2018-08-03 2018 2018-08 Republican House MN Erik Paulsen P000594 paulsen.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON Congressman Erik Paulsen (MN-03) has introduced bipartisan legislation that incentivizes philanthropy by creating Flexible Giving Accounts, which enable taxpayers to set aside portions of their pre-tax paycheck to give to charities. Similar to Health Savings Accounts, FGAs will allow taxpayers to support qualified charities of their choice tax-free. Employers will be able to offer employees the opportunity to divert a portion of their pre-tax earnings into the FGA as part of their fringe benefits package. Taxpayers may then distribute those dollars to charitable organizations. Paulsen introduced the legislation with Reps. Ami Bera (D-CA), Mike Gallagher (R-WI), Cheri Bustos (D-IL), Mark Pocan (D-WI) and Tim Walberg (R-MI). Currently, most American taxpayers take the standard deduction rather than itemize. The result is that most Americans see no real tax benefit from their charitable giving. The new accounts would allow the millions of taxpayers who do not itemize to receive a tax deduction. Americans are the most generous charitable givers on the planet, and philanthropy is the lifeblood of countless non-profit groups that do vital work in Minnesota. But the majority of taxpayers who don't itemize their deductions see no tax benefit from their giving,said Congressman Paulsen. Flexible Giving Accounts will be game-changers. They'll spur more giving by making it easier for American families to make regular contributions to charities of their choice and will mean less paperwork for taxpayers. Every day in this country, charities are changing lives and improving communities, said Congressman Gallagher, a co-sponsor of the bill. By empowering more Americans to set aside their hard-earned money each month, tax free, for charitable giving, this bipartisan bill would incentivize a culture of everyday philanthropy that in turn would deepen and diversify the country's giving pool. He continued,Flexible Giving Accounts are an opportunity for Americans to invest in their own neighbors and communit… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-announces-more-1-million-grant-infrastructure-improvements-st Emmer Announces More Than $1 Million Grant for Infrastructure Improvements at St. Cloud Regional Airport 2018-07-31 2018 2018-07 Republican House MN Tom Emmer E000294 emmer.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC - Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) today announced that the U.S. Department of Transportation has awardedSt. Cloud Regional Airport a grant of $1,242,179 for the construction of a 1,600 foot taxiway to provide access to aircraft hangars.Due to growing demand, St. Cloud Regional Airport is quickly running out of hangar space. This grant would provide for infrastructure construction that would support additional development of the airport. This grant award will help St. Cloud Regional Airport begin construction for additional taxiways, said Congressman Emmer.Investments in local infrastructure help our local economy by providing jobs and this investment will help Minnesotans in the Sixth Congressional District by expanding and developing a more efficient airport in the community. We greatly appreciate the help of our congressional delegation in acquiring this needed funding for our airport, said the Mayor of St. Cloud, Dave Kleis. There is a demand for private hangars on the airport and this will allow for that development, which will help increase future aeronautical revenue at the airport. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://jasonlewis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=185 Lewis provision clears Congress, ready for Presidential signature 2018-07-25 2018 2018-07 Republican House MN Jason Lewis L000587 jasonlewis.house.gov     legacy Lewis provision clears Congress, ready for Presidential signature f t # e Washington, July 25, 2018 WASHINGTON, D.C.- Congressman Jason Lewis issued the following statement after the House passed H.R. 2353, the Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act, including the Congressman's dual enrollment provision to allow concurrent student enrollment in both high school and technical college. I want young people in the 2nd District to learn the skills they need to be successful in the 21st Century economy. Employers around the country are looking to fill well-paid, skilled jobs and career and technical education puts students on the pathway to success in those industries. I'm proud to see this legislation finalized with my language to encourage and expand dual enrollment opportunities, allowing high school students to begin working towards an in-demand credential or degree. Getting H.R. 2353 signed into law will be a major step forward in addressing the skills gap. ### f t # e 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/house-passes-emmer-cosponsors-bill-improve-national-suicide-hotline House Passes, Emmer Cosponsors Bill to Improve National Suicide Hotline 2018-07-24 2018 2018-07 Republican House MN Tom Emmer E000294 emmer.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC - Today the U.S. House of Representatives passed and Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) voted for and supported as a cosponsor, the National Suicide Hotline Improvement Act (H.R. 2345). This bipartisan bill instructs the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) to study the designation of a 3-digit dialing code, similar to 9-1-1, for a suicide prevention and mental health crisis hotline system. Our nation is in the midst of a suicide crisis and Minnesota is no exception, especiallyin light of the state's crisis hotline recently being shut down, said Congressman Emmer. As the second leading cause of death in our state for young Minnesotans, suicide is quite literally killing the next generation. Today, the House is sounding the alarm by ensuring the national hotline is always available to and convenient for those who are suffering. I thank my colleague Rep. Chris Stewart for his leadership on this effort am proud to join as a cosponsor for the National Suicide Hotline Improvement Act. H.R. 2345 specifically instructs the FCC and SAMHSA to perform a cost and benefit analysis of using a three-digit dialing code for a national suicide prevention and mental health crisis hotline. It also asks them to recommend the best number for this purpose. Finally, the study will examine the overall effectiveness of the current National Suicide Prevention Lifeline and the Veterans Crisis Line and recommend ways to improve the existing system. This is just one step towards helping turn the tide on America's suicide crisis, but every step counts, said Emmer.I look forward to leaders on every level, local, state and federal, coming together to provide care before crisis. Suicide statistics provided by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. Clickhere. IF YOU OR SOMEONE YOU KNOW IS HAVING THOUGHTS ABOUT SUICIDE, PLEASE CALL THE NATIONAL SUICIDE PREVENTION LIFELINE, AVAILABLE 24/7: 1-800-273-8255. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://paulsen.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=22&itemid=1991 With Bipartisan Support, House Clears Paulsen Medical Device Tax Repeal 2018-07-24 2018 2018-07 Republican House MN Erik Paulsen P000594 paulsen.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON The House of Representatives today approved bipartisan legislation authored by Rep. Erik Paulsen (MN-03) that permanently repeals the Affordable Care Act's excise tax on medical devices. The bill, called the Protect Medical Innovation Act, was passed by a vote of 283-132, including 57 Democrat supporters. Minnesota's innovators can breathe easier since we're one step closer to ending the medical device tax for good, said Congressman Paulsen. Today's vote shows strong bipartisan support for lifting this burden on innovators in an industry so important to Minnesota. I'm more optimistic than ever we'll be successful in giving these job creators the certainty and predictability they need to thrive. Minnesota has one of the nation's largest medical device sectors and has been disproportionately harmed by the tax. More than 35,000 Minnesotans at more than 700 different companies are employed by the medical device sector. Eighty percent of medical device companies have less than 50 employees and 93 percent have less than 500 employees. Today's vote is a win for American innovation, American jobs, and most of all for American patients, who benefit from the life-changing innovations our industry produces every day,said Scott Whittaker, President and CEO of the Advanced Medical Technology Association (AdvaMed). We commend Rep. Erik Paulsen and a number of leaders from both sides of the aisle for their commitment to permanently repealing this onerous tax and for working to ensure our member companies have the long-term certainty they need to invest in R&D, hiring and other capital improvements to create the next-generation of treatments and cures. Paulsen has long been Congress' leading advocate for repeal of the device tax. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/icymi-emmer-celebrates-victory-minnesotas-mineral-rights-speech-house ICYMI: Emmer Celebrates Victory for Minnesota's Mineral Rights in Speech on the House Floor 2018-07-20 2018 2018-07 Republican House MN Tom Emmer E000294 emmer.house.gov     legacy We are getting Washington out of the lives and off the backs of thousands of hardworking Minnesotans Washington, D.C. Today, Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) gave a speech on the House floor in celebration of overcoming the final hurdle to restoring Minnesota's mineral rights. The restoration of Minnesota's mineral rights followed the President'spledgeto rescind a federal mineral withdrawal of National Forest System lands in Superior National Forest, put in place by the Obama administration in its final days. Watch Congressman Emmer's opening statement here and closing statement here. Full transcript: Mr. Chairman I rise to offer an amendment - which I am pleased to say that I intend to withdraw - following months of hard work in this Chamber and with the Administration. Minnesotais home to the Iron Range, which boasts an abundance of natural resources and critical minerals.When it comes to protecting the environment while developing our economic assets, nobody does it better than Minnesota. That's why it was especially disturbing when the Obama Administration - ON ITS VERY LAST DAY IN OFFICE - proposed to withdrawal over 240,000 acres of land in my state from mineral exploration and development. It was communicated as a step to protect the environment, when in reality, it was Washington telling Minnesotans how to treat Minnesota. This last minute action threatens thousands of jobs, billions of dollars in state revenue and school trust funding, and handicaps our national security by increasing our reliance on foreign sources of minerals. That is why I offered this amendment to stop this unfounded action. This amendment is identical to one that was unanimously adopted by this chamber last year, and is wholly consistent with legislation I introduced - and the House passed - by a strong, bipartisan vote in November. What's more, this amendment echoes the good news that was delivered by the President to thousands of Minnesotans on June 20th when he explicitly expressed his intent to rescind this arbitrary withdrawal.… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://jasonlewis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=183 Lewis works to repeal overreaching regulatory burdens 2018-07-19 2018 2018-07 Republican House MN Jason Lewis L000587 jasonlewis.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C.- Congressman Jason Lewis (MN-02) issued the following statement after voting in favor of the FY 2019 Interior and Environment Appropriations Bill, fully repealing the Waters of the Unites States (WOTUS) rule. "In an effort to cut government red tape, protect property rights and promote economic growth, I have worked hard to repeal overreaching regulatory burdens facing Minnesotansespecially something called the Waters of the US' rule or WOTUS. In fact, I have repeatedly voted to repeal this bureaucratic micromanagement of even the smallest streams, farm ditches and creek beds over the past year and a half. It's great to see our efforts to free farmers in Minnesota from this onerous and unaccountable rule-making take hold." Background: Rep. Lewis has continuously supported a repeal of WOTUS throughout the 115th session by: Signing on as an original cosponsor to H Res 152, expressing the sense that the rule should be withdrawn or vacated Voting for H.R. 3219 and H.R. 3354, which would expedite an administrative withdrawal of the rule and allow the agency to ignore the administrative procedures act Supporting the Administration's efforts to delay the rule until 2020 Supporting the Administration's efforts to rescind or revise the rule Voting in favor of H.R. 5895, which included efforts to repeal the rule ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://paulsen.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=22&itemid=1989 Minnesota Farm Bureau President Testifies on Tariffs, Trade 2018-07-19 2018 2018-07 Republican House MN Erik Paulsen P000594 paulsen.house.gov     legacy Minnesota Farm Bureau President Kevin Paap appearing before the House Ways and Means Committee's Trade Subcommittee on July 18, 2018 WASHINGTON Minnesota Farm Bureau President Kevin Paap testified today before the House Ways and Means Committee's Subcommittee on Trade to discuss the impact of the Administration's tariff policies on Minnesota's agricultural community. Paap's testimony was arranged by Rep. Erik Paulsen (MN-03), who has frequently spoken out to voice his concern about the imposition of tariffs on goods exported across the world. Minnesota Farm Bureau strongly believes that with the current financial stress farmers and ranchers are facing, we need to maintain and expand market opportunities, Paap said in his testimony to the subcommittee. The current tariffs, continuing back-and-forth retaliatory actions and trade uncertainties are hitting American agriculture from all sides and are causing us to lose our markets. Once you lose a market, it is really tough to get it back. In trade wars, agriculture has been and continues to be the tip of the spear, Paap told lawmakers. It is critical that we limit trade disruptions and resolve trade disputes through negotiations, not tariffs or withdrawals from other trade agreement discussions. Minnesota's farmers are the best in the country, but misguided trade policy in Washington is putting them at risk,said Congressman Paulsen. Minnesota exported $7.1 billion in agricultural products in 2016 alone the fourth highest of any state. Our farms have warned tariffs and retaliatory measures will price our products out of markets all over the world. It's important that this story is told. Paap is just the latest Minnesotan that has testified to Congress in Congressman Paulsen's invitation. Recent witnesses have included small business owners, medical innovators and employers benefiting from tax reform. Paulsen's questioning of Paap is below. Rep. Erik Paulsen w/ Paap and his wife Julie prior to the hearing 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-cosponsors-als-disability-insurance-access-act Emmer Cosponsors ALS Disability Insurance Access Act 2018-07-17 2018 2018-07 Republican House MN Tom Emmer E000294 emmer.house.gov     legacy H.R. 1171 will eliminate unnecessary waiting period for patients with ALS WASHINGTON, DC - Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) signed on as a cosponsor of the ALS Disability Insurance Access Act (H.R. 1171) which willwaive the five-month waiting period for people disabled with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and enable them to immediately begin to receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. I am proud to sign on as a cosponsor of this critically important legislation, said Congressman Emmer.People suffering from ALS, like my constituentPeteKlinkhammer, should not have to wait to receive the care they deserve. Congress must come together and send this bill to the President's desk with the utmost urgency. Every day we wait is a day too long. I am greatly appreciative of Congressman Emmer and his staff for seeing the importance of this legislation, said Pete Klinkhammer, a constituent of Minnesota's Sixth Congressional District who suffers from ALS. I agree with the Congressman's characterization of this being an urgent need, because I've seen the devastation ALS has caused families. This is how members of Congress serve their constituents, by listening to their concerns and following through. "We greatly appreciate Representative Emmer's co-sponsorship and support of this bill," said Jennifer Hjelle, Executive Director of The ALS Association's Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota Chapter.ALS is a disease of ongoing physical, emotional and financial loss, and the families we serve cannot afford to wait five months for access to their disability benefits. Hopefully, with additional support from Rep. Emmer's colleagues in Washington, we'll see this bill written into law in the near future. ALS is a neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and the spinal cord, leading to total paralysis and death within two to five years of diagnosis. ALS usually strikes people between the ages of 40 and 70, and some 20,000 Americans have the disease at any given time. There is no known cause or … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/icymi-emmer-talks-trade-kasm-radio-network ICYMI: Emmer Talks Trade on KASM Radio Network 2018-07-17 2018 2018-07 Republican House MN Tom Emmer E000294 emmer.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC - Today Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06)joined Joe Gill on KASM Radio Network to weigh in on the ongoing trade disputes between the United States and China, as well as give an update on the status of this year's Farm Bill. On the current state of global trade and tariffs: I am concerned. The good news is in the first quarter of this year exports out of Minnesota were up 9%. But if you want to know how important trade is to Minnesota, look at the fact that trade with Mexico, one of our top three trade partners, was down by 13%. So exports were up 9% total, but was down 13% with one of our top three direct trading partners. Why? Well, NAFTA has created a bit of a strain. And now you've got China retaliating... Our great soybean producers in Minnesota exported $28 billion worth of soybeans last year, and $14 billion of thoseexports went to China... I am very concerned, Joe. On the administration's actions against China: The Trump administration is trying to level the playing field...We want to freely trade but it has to be fair on both sides. In the meantime, the Chinese are not stupid, they are targeting ten states that Donald Trump won last election. Look,the administration doesn't call it a 'trade war,' they call it 'multiple trade disputes.' I don't care what you call it, it is very concerning... The administration has got to walk a very fine line and Congress will be weighing in. It's important to have fair and reciprocal trade, we do not dispute that, but you need producers to produce these commodities when this whole thing is done, so we are encouraging the administration to get this finished very quickly. On if the trade disputes continue and the future of farming: Well, the United States has the greater leverage, but we're talking about farm communities with farmers who are 55-65 years old. How long are they going to stay in, Joe? If this continues a lot of those folks will say, It has been a good run, but we're going to cash out. Then you've got the young people who you're trying to bring into … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-signs-cosponsor-endangered-species-act-reform-legislation Emmer Signs on as Cosponsor of Endangered Species Act Reform Legislation 2018-07-16 2018 2018-07 Republican House MN Tom Emmer E000294 emmer.house.gov     legacy The Localizing Authority of Management Plans Act of 2018 will empower states, local governments, and tribes to manage species and improve habitat conservation WASHINGTON, DC - Today Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) signed on as a cosponsor of theLocalizing Authority of Management Plans (LAMP) Act,legislation to update the Endangered Species Act (ESA). The LAMP Act will put states, local governments and tribes in charge of species conservation through cooperative agreements in order to reduce the volume of bureaucratic errors and work to correct faulty top-down assumptions. The Endangered Species Act is long overdue for reform and the LAMP Act is an important part of this effort, said Congressman Emmer.Farmers and ranchers in Minnesota and across the country want to protect America's wildlife, but the current ESA has failed, hurt farmers and their families, and cost billions.The top-down federal approach has not worked. In fact, less than two percent of all listed species has been removed since the ESA's enactment in 1973. The LAMP Act is common-sense reform to grant greater flexibility and responsibility to those most capable of species conservation. Specifically, the LAMP Act will permit the Secretary of Interior to enter into cooperative management agreements with states, local governments, tribes and other non-federal persons to better manage and recover species and improve habitat conservation. States with existing species conservation programs will be empowered to take the lead in managing and preserving those species. Emmer referenced the case of the Grey Wolf, which was originally listed as endangered in 1974. Since then, its population recovered and expanded more quickly than anticipated, leading the Fish and Wildlife Service to make efforts to return management of the Grey Wolf to the states in 2009. Special interest groups filed multiple lawsuits in a successful attempt to usurp states' power, and today, despite the Fish and Wildlife Service's best efforts to make it clear that this species has recovered … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://paulsen.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=22&itemid=1990 Paulsen Advances Three Health Care Affordability Bills 2018-07-12 2018 2018-07 Republican House MN Erik Paulsen P000594 paulsen.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON The House Ways and Means Committee approved three bills authored by Rep. Erik Paulsen (MN-03) that will make needed medical care more affordable for Minnesota families by expanding and strengthening Health Savings Accounts (HSAs). Used by more than 20 million individuals and families nationwide, HSAs enable enrollees to contribute pre-tax dollars to a fund paying for qualified health care expenses. The passage of Paulsen's legislation follows a June hearing of the Joint Economic Hearing he chaired that examined how HSAs can lower health care costs and make America's health care system more consumer-friendly. Health Savings Accounts help Americans save for medical expenses and spend their health care dollars more effectively, said Paulsen.They've also been proven to lower health care costs. But there are ways we can modernize HSAs and make them more widely available. These bills will make quality care more affordable and more accessible to middle-income families. Minnesota has the third-highest enrollment in HSAs in the country, with nearly 1.2 million enrollees.According to one estimate, if half of employer-sponsored insurance plans utilized HSAs, Americans could save $57 billion in health care spending annually. Paulsen's bills each make HSAs more useful and more accessible to millions of Americans. H.R. 6317allows account holders to use HSA funds to cover expenses associated with Direct Primary Care (DPC) arrangements. Patients and employers using Direct Primary Care models pay their doctors and care providers directly, without third-party insurance involvement. It enables doctors and other providers to focus more directly on a patient's needs instead of insurance company administration and billing requirements. Existing rules prohibit Direct Primary Care patients from using HSAs to pay their provider fees. H.R. 6309helps working seniors by allowing Medicare enrollees over 65 to contribute to their HSAs. Existing law prohibits Medicare enrollees from continuing to contribute to H… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://jasonlewis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=184 Lewis: Conferee to NDAA Conference Committee 2018-07-11 2018 2018-07 Republican House MN Jason Lewis L000587 jasonlewis.house.gov     legacy Lewis: Conferee to NDAA Conference Committee f t # e Washington, July 11, 2018 WASHINGTON, D.C.- Congressman Jason Lewis (MN-02) issued the following statement after the initial National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019 (NDAA) Conference Meeting this afternoon, where he serves as an outside conferee for both the Transportation and Infrastructure and Education and Workforce committees. I'm honored to represent both the Transportation and Infrastructure and Education and Workforce committees as a conferee, and to highlight provisions incorporated into the House-passed NDAA that I feel are important to keep in the final joint legislation- including multiple maritime and aviation measures that ensure the prosperity and security of our nation. I also urged that the House and Senate keep the Senate-passed language that authorizes the Northern Minnesota land exchange that would allow miners to get back to work. I look forward to working out the differences in the House and Senate bills, and to a productive conference. ### f t # e 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/house-passes-emmers-main-street-growth-act House Passes Emmer's Main Street Growth Act 2018-07-10 2018 2018-07 Republican House MN Tom Emmer E000294 emmer.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC - Today the U.S. House of Representatives passed Congressman Tom Emmer's (MN-06) Main Street Growth Act (H.R. 5877) which will create jobs, improve capital formation and encourage more early-stage Initial Public Offerings (IPOs) by facilitating the creation of venture exchanges. The bill passed 56-0 out of the Financial Services Committee last month. Today, the House took an important step to add to this economy's growing momentum by passing the Main Street Growth Act, said Congressman Emmer. A 2012 study found that for nearly 2,800 companies that participated in an IPO between 1996-2010, total employment across these businesses increased by 2.2 million jobs, while total revenue increased by over $1 trillion. However, participation in the IPO process has slowed over the years. Today the U.S. has half of the number of publicly listed companies than it had two decades ago. It is critical that the current market structure meets the need for all types of companies to encourage more to go public which generates millions of jobs and trillions of dollars in revenue for the economy. This bill, which I was thrilled to see pass unanimously out of committee, will do just that by facilitating the creation of venture exchanges to embolden more early stage IPOs and improve capital formation for businesses in Minnesota and across the United States. As it heads to the Senate, I look forward to both sides of the aisle coming together to ensure that American entrepreneursand workers can continue to succeed, concluded Emmer. Specifically, H.R. 5877 will allow the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission to provide for the creation of venture exchanges. These specialized securities exchanges would help small and emerging growth companies gain access to the capital they need to grow and succeed. It would also establish an Office of Venture Exchanges under its Division of Trading and Markets to study and monitor the effectiveness of these new exchanges. CLICK HERE to read H.R. 5877, CLICK HERE to watch Emmer speak on the… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://paulsen.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=22&itemid=1988 Paulsen on 301 Tariffs: "We're Shooting Ourselves in the Foot" 2018-07-03 2018 2018-07 Republican House MN Erik Paulsen P000594 paulsen.house.gov     legacy Congressman Erik Paulsen (MN-03) issued the following statement today after the U.S. Trade Representative announced its final list of Section 301 tariffs and China announced $50 billion worth of tariffs in retaliation: I'm pleased to see some products, like certain medical devices and televisions, were removed from the U.S.T.R.'s final list, said Congressman Paulsen. It's a positive outcome of bipartisan efforts in Congress to remove items in these categories from the 301 tariff list. In recent weeks, Paulsen led efforts in the House to urge the removal of medical devices and consumer electronics from the list of products subject to 301 tariffs. But on balance, today was not a good day for American jobs. We've imposed import tariffs that will make it more expensive to buy and produce a whole range of goods here in the United States, raising costs for consumers and job creators. And China's retaliation measures, on soybeans in particular, will be especially damaging to Minnesota. I'm even more concerned about additional lists of products to potentially be targeted with tariffs by both the U.S. and China in the future. We're shooting ourselves in the foot and the casualties will be lost jobs and higher prices. The President needs to see that. There's still time to ratchet down the rhetoric and de-escalate tensions before too much damage is done. I hope we do, Paulsen said. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://jasonlewis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=182 Lewis hosts opioid roundtable 2018-07-02 2018 2018-07 Republican House MN Jason Lewis L000587 jasonlewis.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C.- .- Congressman Jason Lewis (MN-02) issued the following statement after hosting an Opioid Roundtable this afternoon in Apple Valley, discussing the opioid epidemic as it affects Minnesotans, the efforts led by Congressman Lewis to combat the issue, and more with fellow panelists. Our country is facing an opioid addiction crisis that is devastating our communities, and my colleagues and I in the House are workingto combat this epidemicincluding passing my bipartisan bill to develop an advisory committee on opioids in the workforce so employers can effectively address addiction as it affects their employees.Ourcommunitiesneedthe flexibility and resources to tackle the crisis, and weneed to do a betterhelpingtreat addictions as medical issues instead of just a criminal issue. However, we cannot adequately address this crisis with federal legislation alone.Cooperation between federal, state, and local entitiesis the key totruly getting a handle on this crisis.That is whyIwas proud to hosttoday's roundtable to bringtogether local stakeholders to discuss the ways we can address opioid addiction in the Second District and Minnesota as a whole. Background: Roundtable attendees: 1.Congressman Jason Lewis 2.BryanKlabunde(MN Farmers Union) 3.LarryBourgerie(Society for Human Resource Management) 4.Ben Schmidt (Former addict and author of Six Years Lost) 5.MauraMcGarry, LGSW (Minneapolis VA Opiate Treatment Program) More on the Congressman's Legislation: H.R. 5892 Opioid Advisory Committee at Departmentof Labor This bipartisan legislationwasintroduced with Rep. Matt Cartwright (D-PA)and wouldcreate an Advisory Committee to advise the Secretary of Labor on actions the Department can take to address the impact of opioid abuse on the workplace.Itpassed the House by voice vote on June 13, 2018. The Advisory Committee will discuss opioid abuse and its impact on employer substance abuse policies, employer-provided benefits, workplace safety, productivity and absenteeism, alternative pain managem… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-applauds-minnesota-public-utilities-commission-decision-replace Emmer Applauds Minnesota Public Utilities Commission Decision to Replace Line 3 Pipeline Using Preferred Route 2018-06-29 2018 2018-06 Republican House MN Tom Emmer E000294 emmer.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC - Following the Minnesota Public Utilities Commision's (PUC)decisionto replace Line 3 using the preferred route, Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) released the following statement: I applaud the PUC's decision on Line 3 and am encouraged they agree replacing the pipeline using the preferred route is in the best interest for all Minnesotans. The fact is, Line 3 is old, needs significant repair,and is running at a fraction of its original capacity. Replacing it using the preferred route, which avoids reservation lands and environmentally sensitive areas, will ensure that the safe, continuous, reliable supply of North American energy is available to serve the needs of Minnesotans, Midwesterners and Americans. Additionally, a modern replacement, using state-of-the-art facilities and technologies, will provide thousands of jobs for Minnesotans. This is a win for all parties and I look forward to the project's completion. In an op-ed published in the Minneapolis Star-Tribune, Reps. Emmer, Collin Peterson (MN-07), Rick Nolan (MN-08) and Jason Lewis (MN-02) advocated for the PUC to replace Line 3 using the preferred route. Read the full piece online here. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://jasonlewis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=180 Lewis supports PUC decision on Enbridge Line 3 replacement plan approval 2018-06-29 2018 2018-06 Republican House MN Jason Lewis L000587 jasonlewis.house.gov     legacy Lewis supports PUC decision on Enbridge Line 3 replacement plan approval f t # e Washington, June 29, 2018 WASHINGTON, D.C.- Congressman Jason Lewis (MN-02) issued the following statement in regard to the Enbridge Line 3 replacement plan decision announced today. It is a no-brainer to replace the pipeline with a new, safer version that will continue to provide a steady supply of oil to Pine Bend refinery in Rosemount and support thousands of jobs in our area. I'm glad the PUC joined me in recognizing this need and hope that review of the preferred route moves quickly. ### f t # e 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://paulsen.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=22&itemid=1987 Paulsen, Colleagues Push Minnesotan for Supreme Court Vacancy 2018-06-28 2018 2018-06 Republican House MN Erik Paulsen P000594 paulsen.house.gov     legacy Congressman Erik Paulsen (MN-03)today urged the President to nominate Judge David Stras of the U.S. Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals to fill the vacancy on the United States Supreme Court that will be open following Justice Anthony Kennedy's retirement. Stras, a former Minnesota Supreme Court Justice, was confirmed to the federal appellate court in January. Paulsen was joined by Reps. Tom Emmer (MN-06) and Jason Lewis (MN-02) in writing the President to recommend Stras' nomination. Judge Stras was included in a list of 25 potential Supreme Court nominees published by the White House last year. We write to offer our highest recommendation for the nomination of Judge David Stras, currently serving on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit, to fill the vacancy created by Justice Anthony Kennedy's recent retirement from the Supreme Court of the United States,the lawmakers wrote.Judge Stras has all the best qualities of a judge. As a true originalist and textualist, Justice Stras has continually displayed his commitment to interpret the law, rather than make it. Judge Stras' decisions are notable for their rigorous analysis of statutory and constitutional texts which apply the text as it was understood at the time of its adoption. As you know, Judge Stras' nomination is widely and enthusiastically supported in Minnesota. His supporters come from across the political spectrum, and include former colleagues at the University of Minnesota Law School and Minnesota Supreme Court. He is highly respected across the state, largely because his track record is truly beyond reproach,the lawmakers said. Paulsen first discussed his support for Judge Stras' nomination during an appearance on WCCO Radio Wednesday. The full text of the letter is below. June 28, 2018 President Donald J. Trump The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20500 Dear Mr. President: We write to offer our highest recommendation for the nomination of Judge David Stras, cu… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://jasonlewis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=179 Lewis fights for immigration reform 2018-06-27 2018 2018-06 Republican House MN Jason Lewis L000587 jasonlewis.house.gov     legacy Lewis fights for immigration reform f t # e Washington, June 27, 2018 WASHINGTON, D.C.- Congressman Jason Lewis (MN-02) issued the following statement after voting in favor of H.R. 6136, the Border Security and Immigration Reform Act, which failed to pass the House this afternoon. Even with a fix for separated families at the border; a more generous documented status for Dreamers, but not for the adults who brought them in; and a tough new plan for border security, today's vote on the immigration bill failed to garner a majority. This is extremely unfortunate as it was the second time in two weeks a reform bill came to the floor only to be defeated by misplaced opposition. The opportunity for genuine immigration reform is a fleeting one, and it's too bad we missed this opportunity to work with the Administration on a bill that I believe addressed most of the concerns that were being raised. ### f t # e 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://paulsen.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=22&itemid=1986 Paulsen Statement on Immigration Vote 2018-06-27 2018 2018-06 Republican House MN Erik Paulsen P000594 paulsen.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON-- Congressman Erik Paulsen (MN-03) today issued the following statement after the House of Representatives rejected a compromise immigration reform bill: "I signed a discharge petition over the objections of my own leadership to force this debate, and I'm not giving up," said Paulsen."Unfortunately, a minority of Republicans and every Democrat voted against securing the border and securing a future for young immigrants brought to this country through no fault of their own. Hardliners in both parties are stopping us from moving forward and making real progress, Paulsen continued.I'm going to be talking to my colleagues like Rep. Carlos Curbelo to plan a path forward. We need to permanently end the separation of kids from their parents at the border and give young DACA recipients certainty. It's too important to give up now." ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://paulsen.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=22&itemid=1985 Paulsen Urges Reversal of Cuts to School Safety Funding 2018-06-26 2018 2018-06 Republican House MN Erik Paulsen P000594 paulsen.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON-- Congressman Erik Paulsen (MN-03) today urged his fellow lawmakers to reverse funding cuts for school safety programs included in draft legislation funding the Department of Education and other federal agencies. In a letter to Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04), Chairman of the House Appropriations Committee's Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education and Related Agencies, Paulsen called on the subcommittee to ensure school safety programs are provided with robust funding as it crafts its Fiscal Year 2019 appropriations legislation. News reports this week indicate that the draft legislation being considered by the Committee would significantly reduce funding for these initiatives. In the wake of a series of school shootings across the nation, I'm greatly concerned that such funding reductions may hinder our ability to keep schools safe,Paulsen wrote. We have no higher responsibility to our children than to provide them with a safe learning environment. But instead of making our schools safer and more effectively training our first responders to act should the unthinkable happen, I fear that the reductions in this funding bill will put more students at risk. The full text of Paulsen's letter is below. June 26, 2018 The Honorable Tom Cole Chairman Committee on Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education and Related Agencies U.S. House of Representatives Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Chairman Cole: It has come to my attention that the proposed fiscal year 2019 spending bill for Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education departments includes funding reductions for programs that aim to improve school safety and ensure that students have access to necessary behavioral health services. In the wake of a series of school shootings across the nation, I'm greatly concerned that such funding reductions may hinder our ability to keep schools safe. We have no higher … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://jasonlewis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=177 Lewis: Let’s get immigration reform done 2018-06-25 2018 2018-06 Republican House MN Jason Lewis L000587 jasonlewis.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C.- Congressman Jason Lewis (MN-02) issued the following statement in regard to immigration reform in the House. Last fall, Congressional Democrats voted to shut down the government because they wanted a solution for the Dreamers. And last week, Democrats voted against legislation which included a solution for the Dreamers. And this week, the House will vote again on immigration reform which includes a solution for Dreamers. Unfortunately, it appears Democrats will again vote against a solution for Dreamers. Confusing, eh? Unfortunately, it's not confusing when you realize their support for the Dreamers has been a con game seeking not to solve the critical issues surrounding immigration, but an opportunity to ply for votes and as a weapon to yield in their unending fight against President Trump. Most recently, that weapon has been the plight of children crossing the border illegally with their families. It is heart wrenching that children and families are separated--whether it's at the border or when parents send their children alone on a trek to our border. It was just as heart wrenching when the Obama administration separated families too. I supported the President's Executive Order ending the immediate separation. I supported legislation months ago that would have allowed families to be kept together. This week, I plan to vote again on a fix to this issueand a fix for the Dreamers as well. The legislation, known as the Compromise Bill, also includes important provisions that strengthen our border and increase our nation's security by stemming the flow of guns and drugs which are pouring over our border and moves to long-overdue merit and skills-based system for visas. It's too bad the Dreamers can't count on the Democrats support this week either. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://paulsen.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=22&itemid=1983 Paulsen On Trump Immigration Tweets: "President Trump Is Wrong" 2018-06-22 2018 2018-06 Republican House MN Erik Paulsen P000594 paulsen.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON -- Congressman Erik Paulsen (MN-03) today issued the following statement after the President tweeted this morning that Republicans should stop wasting their time on immigration until after the midterm elections in November: President Trump is wrong,said Paulsen.Congress needs to act now. Unlike the President, I won't give up on giving DACA recipients certainty and ensuring we're never separating kids from their parents at the border again. I signed a discharge petition to force this debate, over the objection of many in my own party, because it's critical that we finally take action to address these issues. I will continue to work with my colleagues to get the votes to pass common-sense immigration reform. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-applauds-house-passage-farm-bill Emmer Applauds House Passage of Farm Bill 2018-06-21 2018 2018-06 Republican House MN Tom Emmer E000294 emmer.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC Today, following House passage of the Agriculture and Nutrition Act of 2018 (H.R. 2), commonly called the Farm Bill, Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) released the following statement: Today's passage of the 2018 Farm Bill is a considerable step to provide relief and certainty for our farmers and ranchers in Minnesota and across the nation. I am proud to see the House pass this critical package, which contains major improvements for farmers and ranchers in Minnesota's Sixth Congressional District such as better dairy risk management tools for smaller operations, a strong crop insurance program, improved farm safety net programs like Agricultural Risk Coverage, and efforts to better respond to emerging diseases that devastate livestock producers throughout Minnesota, said Congressman Emmer, whose district encompasses areas of rural Minnesota including parts of Stearns, Benton, Wright and Sherburne Counties. The Farm Bill also included Emmer'sStemming the Tide of Rural Economic Stress and Suicide (STRESS) Act, which will make mental health treatment more available for farmers, ranchers and agricultural workers who, due to the nature of their work and the lack of mental health treatment available, suffer from higher rates of depression and suicide. As the Farm Bill heads to conference with the Senate, I am grateful to see the STRESS Act included and am encouraged to know my colleagues on both sides of the aisle are supportive of this effort to deliver more mental health treatment to our farmers who are suffering a rate of suicide five times higher than the normal population, added Emmer. Specifically, the STRESS Act will reauthorize the Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network (FRSAN) to give states needed resources to provide mental health services for farmers and ranchers. Though the program was first authorized in 2008, it did not receive funding and therefore lapsed. Emmer's legislation will renew FRSAN, restoring our nation's attention to Americans in farming who are disproportionately affected by h… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-commends-presidents-announcement-restore-minnesotas-mineral-rights Emmer Commends President's Announcement to Restore Minnesota's Mineral Rights 2018-06-21 2018 2018-06 Republican House MN Tom Emmer E000294 emmer.house.gov     legacy Efforts include Emmer's MINER Act in 2017 WASHINGTON, DC- Following the President's announcement yesterday that his administration will rescind the federal withdrawal in the Superior National Forest and restore mineral exploration for Minnesota, Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) released the following statement: The President's announcement last night is great news for Minnesota. My MINER Act demonstrated strong bipartisan support for unleashing our state's mining potential and now, byreversing the politically motivated and short-sighted actions from the Obama administration on their way out the door, President Trump is stepping in to restore local control of Minnesota's mineral rights. I am hopeful that the steps needed to ensure a full reversal of the former administration's harmful actions are taken soon, specifically ending the withdrawal proposal that has now dragged on for 18 months, to dramatically revitalize local communities and their economies. Background: During the last days of his administration, President Obama threatened more than 425,000 acres of land with a prohibition on development, potentially instating a 20-year ban on industry activity, including up to two-years for a temporary study. This unchecked move by the former administration decimated local economies, specifically a projected loss of nearly 17,000 jobs and billions of dollars of revenue. In October 2017, Congressman EmmerintroducedMinnesota's Economic Rights (MINER) in the Superior National Forest Act to restore Minnesota's right to exploreand, if environmentally appropriate, mine valuable precious metals. The House passedEmmer's MINER Act in November 2017 followed closely by action from the Department of Interior to renew the mineral leases in the area. President Trump's announcement signifies his commitment to ending the two-year study and fully restoring Minnesota's right to explore. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/trump-i-will-be-cancelling-superior-national-forest-mineral-withdrawal Trump: 'I will be CANCELLING the Superior National Forest Mineral Withdrawal' 2018-06-21 2018 2018-06 Republican House MN Tom Emmer E000294 emmer.house.gov     legacy (Courtesy of the Congressional Western Caucus) WASHINGTON, D.C. Today,Members of the Congressional Western Caucus including Chairman Paul Gosar (AZ-04), Chief Infrastructure and Forestry Officer Bruce Westerman (AR-04)and Members Tom Emmer (MN-06) and Kevin Cramer (ND-At Large) released statements after President Trump announced at a rally last night in Duluth, Minnesota that he would be cancelling the Obama Administration's political mineral withdrawal in the Superior National Forest: Congressman Emmer stated, The President's announcement last night is great news for Minnesota. My MINER Act demonstrated strong bipartisan support for unleashing our state's mining potential and now, by reversing the politically motivated and short-sighted actions from the Obama administration on their way out the door, President Trump is stepping in to restore local control of Minnesota's mineral rights. I am hopeful that the steps needed to ensure a full reversal of the former administration's harmful actions are taken soon, specifically ending the withdrawal proposal that has now dragged on for 18 months, to dramatically revitalize local communities and their economies. CongressmanGosarsaid, "When the Minnesota mineral withdrawal was first announced in the twilight hours of the last Administration, we in the Western Caucus knew it would be an uphill battle to bring enough attention to it to get something done. So, we banded together, amplified the issue and worked to avert the terrible precedent and economic turmoil that would ensue if the withdrawal was left in place. Ultimately, piece by piece, these efforts have prevailed, with word of the problem making its way to President Trump just yesterday. When the President heard the numbers -17,000 jobs, $3 billion for education, $1.5 billion in annual wages, $2.5 billion annually for the economy - he recognized that the obviously right thing to do was to reverse the action. And, it just so happens that policy created with a pen can be wiped away by one, too - thanks, Obama. We appr… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://jasonlewis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=176 Lewis votes to end carried interest loophole and Pentagon slush fund to balance budget 2018-06-21 2018 2018-06 Republican House MN Jason Lewis L000587 jasonlewis.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C.- In keeping with his longstanding promise of shared budgetary sacrifice, Congressman Jason Lewis (MN-02) today voted for theBrighter American Future Act which passed out of the Budget Committee today. While I was disappointed the Committee did not close all the loopholes it could, The Brighter American Future Act nonetheless lays out a plan to get our fiscal house in order. It includes the largest reconciliation package in over 2 decades by directing the 11 authorizing committees to identify $302 billion in saving over 10 years. During the mark up I supported two amendments that would help restore fiscal responsibility and fairer tax policies. I voted to get rid of the special interest deduction for hedge fund managers known as the carried interested and I supported an amendment addressing the overseas contingency operations (OCO) defense fund at the Department of Defense (DoD). The fact is fiscalaccountability needs to be applied across the board to halt the verydangerous fiscal path we're on so the future can remain as bright as it should. Background: Carried Interest Amendment: Right now, the profits Wall Street makes on other investors' money isn't taxed as ordinary income. Instead, these 'commissions' are considered capital gains, meaning the rest of us have to make up the difference. Amendment #8, which the Congressman supported, would have removed that loophole. OCO Amendment: The overseas contingency operations (OCO) has become a slush fund and is a gimmick to circumvent spending caps and hides the true cost of our national security. OCO perpetuates irresponsible budgeting that hurts long term planning for our national defense. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://jasonlewis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=174 Lewis for small business health care coverage 2018-06-20 2018 2018-06 Republican House MN Jason Lewis L000587 jasonlewis.house.gov     legacy Lewis for small business health care coverage f t # e Washington, June 20, 2018 WASHINGTON, D.C.- Congressman Jason Lewis (MN-02) issued the following statement in regard to the Administration's move to expand affordable health insurance to individuals, families, and small businesses. "Glad to see the Secretary of Labor remove obstacles for self-employed individuals to join AHPs and save thousands on health care costs. From 2013 to 2016, approximately 7000 MN businesses stopped offering health care due to high costs of Obamacare. I have been working to expand access to affordable options for our small business and their employees and last year the House passed the Small Business Health Fairness Act. Smaller firms should have the same options as large-employer plans." f t # e 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://jasonlewis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=175 Lewis attends Jobs Roundtable to discuss economic prosperity 2018-06-20 2018 2018-06 Republican House MN Jason Lewis L000587 jasonlewis.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C.- Congressman Jason Lewis (MN-02) issued the following statement after participating in a Jobs Roundtable in Duluth with other panelists including President Donald Trump and Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06). America is in a period of growth and prosperity, with the lowest unemployment numbers in nearly two decades, and the majority of Americans now believe the economy is in excellent condition. Here in Minnesota, 10,200 new jobs were added last month and dozens of companies are giving pay raises and bonuses to employees. I'm grateful for the opportunity to discuss the benefits our historic tax reform and other pro-growth policies are having in Minnesota and what more can be done to continue our nation's prosperity. Statements supporting the pro-growth agenda: With the historic record low unemployment both inMinnesota and across the country, there is increasing worker competition. This includes nearly every job across all sectors such as transportation, construction, general office, and tech. This competition is driving up wages for the middle class, which is the backbone of our Country. The recent tax policy allows companies to pay more wages in the competitive market, yet preserve corporate profitability. Paul Breckner, President of Data Sales The recent changes in tax policies have created jobs in transportation; from plants that build, to drivers who move, and technicians to support. These changes have created a positive movement in attitudes towards the American future. Greg Nuss, Owner of Nuss Truck and Equipment Background: Minnesota and the country as a whole have seen direct benefits from the Tax Cuts & Jobs Act and other pro-growth legislation, including: In May 2018 Minnesota's unemployment rate dropped to 3.1 percent. Over 600 companies have given pay raises, bonuses, 401(k) match increases, expanded operations, or reduced utility rates thanks to tax reform. o This includes companies in Minnesota: Priority Courier Experts, Circuit Interruption Technology Inc, Albert Lea Pu… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://paulsen.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=22&itemid=1982 Paulsen Statement on Duluth Trump Rally 2018-06-20 2018 2018-06 Republican House MN Erik Paulsen P000594 paulsen.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON -- Congressman Erik Paulsen (MN-03) today issued the following statement on the rally being held by the President in Duluth, Minn. today: "I'm rallying in Washington today to get votes on legislation that ends the unconscionable practice of separating kids from their parents at the border and gives certainty to young DACA recipients,"Paulsen said."That's our job, and that's what Minnesotans sent me here to do." "I signed the discharge petition to force this debate in Congress over the objection of many in my own party,"Paulsen continued."But this debate is more important than party, it's about the security of our nation and about who we are as a people. The DACA kids and the children being taken from their parents at the border deserve the compassion that has made our nation a shining city on a hill for generations of immigrants." Paulsen earned praise from his colleague Carlos Curbelo (FL-26), who has been a leader in the House in the effort to reform our immigration system and fix DACA. I'm grateful to my colleague Erik Paulsen for his commitment to reforming our country's immigration laws in a way that secures the border, provides certainty and protections for young immigrants in the DACA program, and puts an end to the separation of children from their parents at the border,Curbelo said. In anticipation of immigration votes in the coming days, Erik and I are working intensely to build support for legislation that achieves these important goals. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://paulsen.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=22&itemid=1984 House Clears Paulsen Opioid Legislation 2018-06-20 2018 2018-06 Republican House MN Erik Paulsen P000594 paulsen.house.gov     legacy Washington The House of Representatives last night approved H.R. 5775, the Providing Reliable Options for Patients and Educational Resources (PROPER) Act, bipartisan legislation authored by Rep. Erik Paulsen (MN-03) that combats the opioid epidemic by educating seniors about alternative non-opioid pain management treatments and on the proper, safe disposal of prescription painkillers. The legislation was approved by unanimous bipartisan voice vote. Rep. Paulsen issued the following statement after its passage: Every day, 115 Americans die from opioid overdose,Paulsen said. And while seniors aren't typically thought of as an at-risk demographic, half a million seniors are regularly prescribed large doses of opioids and more than 90,000 are at high risk' of addiction. One of our best tools to combat the epidemic is education: informing Medicare beneficiaries about non-addictive alternatives to opioids, and on how to properly dispose of opioids when they're prescribed, said Paulsen. The legislation will help seniors better understand their options for pain management, and educate them on how best to safely dispose of their medications. It also instructs care providers to assess the whole patient' when delivering advice on pain management. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://jasonlewis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=172 Lewis pushes against misguided legislation—calls for real criminal justice reform 2018-06-15 2018 2018-06 Republican House MN Jason Lewis L000587 jasonlewis.house.gov     legacy Lewis pushes against misguided legislationcalls for real criminal justice reform f t # e Washington, June 15, 2018 WASHINGTON, D.C.- Congressman Jason Lewis (MN-02) issued the following statement after voting no' on H.R. 2851, the Stop Importation and Trafficking of Synthetic Analogues Act, earlier today. While we all want to address the opioid problem facing our nation, this is misguided legislation. This bill does not address the underlying medical problems of the opioid epidemic and will only further hurt those facing addiction by doubling down on the status quo. Just as important, this bill cedes Congressional lawmaking authority to the Attorney General. So many of these drug offenses should be characterized as a medical issue and not just a criminal issue. Creating new mandatory sentencing, especially without criminal intent requirements, only further exacerbates the over-incarceration and over-criminalization problems at the federal level.That is why I have continually worked for criminal justice reform by introducing the Juvenile Justice Reform Act and the Safe Justice Act, and it is high time Congress gets these bills to the President's desk. f t # e 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://jasonlewis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=173 Lewis fights for child care accountability 2018-06-15 2018 2018-06 Republican House MN Jason Lewis L000587 jasonlewis.house.gov     legacy Lewis fights for child care accountability f t # e Washington, June 15, 2018 WASHINGTON D.C.- Congressman Jason Lewis (MN-02) issued the following statement regarding the joint letter he sent with Education and Workforce Chairwoman Virginia Foxx (NC-05), urging HHS Secretary Azar to address the child care fraud scandals in Minnesota. It is imperative that we protect Minnesota families and others alike by ensuring proper oversight is in place on these federally-funding child care programs. The Department of Health and Human Services needs to be ready to address fraud in the program and prosecute any criminal activity to protect the health and safety of children and the families the programs are intended to serve and to ensure that tax payer dollars are not being improperly spent. f t # e 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://paulsen.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=22&itemid=1980 Paulsen Urges Reversal of Policies Leading to Family Separation at the Border 2018-06-15 2018 2018-06 Republican House MN Erik Paulsen P000594 paulsen.house.gov     legacy Washington Congressman Erik Paulsen (MN-03) issued the following statement today on reports of families being separated at our borders: It's heartbreaking to hear about the situation along our border and the stories of children being removed from their moms and dads,said Congressman Paulsen. As the parent of four daughters, I cannot imagine the fear, trauma and confusion these children are going through after being separated from their parents. The United States should not forcibly break up families. That is just not what America is about. These families are seeking to come to the United States for a multitude of reasons, but fundamentally it is to build a better life than they left behind in their home countries. We have a responsibility to secure our borders and enforce our laws. But how we enforce those laws is a reflection of our values and who we are as a country. Tearing families apart should not be our policy and the Departments of Justice and Homeland Security should reverse this decision,Paulsen said. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-announces-winners-2018-congressional-art-competition Emmer Announces Winners of the 2018 Congressional Art Competition 2018-06-13 2018 2018-06 Republican House MN Tom Emmer E000294 emmer.house.gov     legacy Otsego, MN Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) today announced the winners of the Congressional Art Competition for high school students living in Minnesota's Sixth District. Congratulations to this year's winner, Tyler, whose winning piece Ray of Color' will be displayed in the United States Capitol, as well as Esther and Shaelee, whose incredible artwork will be displayed inmy Washington andOtsego offices, said Congressman Emmer.Tyler's piece Ray of Color' stood out this year, but our judges always have a difficult time choosing a winner because Minnesota's Sixth Congressional District has so much talent. We are grateful to all of the Minnesotans who submitted their work and look forward to next year! Tyler Gfroerer, a senior at St. Michael Albertville High School, won first place for his colored pencil drawing entitled Ray of Color, named after Tyler's dog. Tyler is the son of Melissa and Matthew Gfroerer. His art teacher is Sara Henrickson. Ray of Color will be displayed in the United States Capitol for one year, where it will be viewed daily by members of Congress, staff, and visitors. Esther Stoy, a senior at Blaine High School, won second place for her mixed media piece entitled Daddio, portraying Esther's father. Esther is the daughter of John and Suzanne Stoy. Her art teacher is Pat Undis. Esther was the first place winner of the 2016 Congressional Art Competition and the 3rd place winner of the 2017 Congressional Art Competition. Daddio will be displayed in Emmer's Washington D.C. office. Shaelee Peterman, a junior at Blaine High School, won third place for her acrylic painting entitled Old Friend Made Anew, portraying Shaelee's best friend's shoe. Shaelee is the daughter of Kelli and David Peterman. Her art teacher is Pat Undis. Shaelee's painting will be displayed in Emmer's Otsego office. The Congressional Art Competition is an annual competition for high school students across the United States. The winner from each district wins the chance to travel to Washington D.C. to visit with their Representative a… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmers-venture-exchange-bill-touted-markets-media Emmer's Venture Exchange Bill Touted in Markets Media 2018-06-13 2018 2018-06 Republican House MN Tom Emmer E000294 emmer.house.gov     legacy OPINION: Nothing Ventured, Nothing GainedBy Rob DalyJune 13, 2018 The House Financial Service's subcommittee on Capital Markets, Securities, and Investments is far from a subtle body. With its recent unanimous markup approval of the Main Street Growth Act, or H.R. 5877, it wants the US Securities and Exchange Commission to address venture exchanges. The bill layouts almost everything that needs to be done to establish venture exchanges and defining the securities that would trade on such entities. Unlike the JOBS Act with its tick-pilot provision, it is doubtful that the Main Street Growth Act will make it into law due to Congressional gridlock unless someone tacks the bill onto one of the must-pass appropriation bills. Rep. Tom Emmer (MN-R), the bill's author, must have known that since he included a Sense of Congress section that recommends that the SEC should start using its general exemptive relief authority granted to it under the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934 as well as establish an Office of Venture Exchanges under its Division of Trading and Markets. The SEC knows that it must make a move regarding venture exchanges. Its Division of Trading and Markets held an industry roundtable on thinly traded stocks in April, where the participants floated the idea of one or more venture exchanges more than once. The problem the regulator faces is that there are too many unknown variables: Should there be more than one venture exchange? Should they use periodic auctions instead of continuous trading? Should over-the-counter trading of venture securities be banned? The bill is mum on how many venture exchanges it would like as well as on OTC trading, but it does mention the use of auctions. The one thing that is certain is that the current one-size-fits-all trading methodology is not working for the US cash equities market and has not worked for any other equities market around the globe, according to James Angel, a professor at the McDonough School of Business, Ge… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://jasonlewis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=171 Lewis advocates for Advisory Committee on Opioids in the Workplace 2018-06-13 2018 2018-06 Republican House MN Jason Lewis L000587 jasonlewis.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C.- Congressman Jason Lewis (MN-02) issued the following statement after his bipartisan bill, H.R. 5892, to establish an advisory committee on opioids and the workplace passed the House this afternoon. It's vital that my colleagues and I come together to address the opioid epidemic head-on, with purposeful legislation that combats the crisis from all anglesincluding in the workplace. I'm thankful to have worked across the aisle with Congressman Matt Cartwright (PA-17) on this bill to help address the harmful effects of opioid abuse in the workplace and take proactive steps to see what actions employers can take to address affected employees. My bill is one of the important pieces of legislation the House advanced this week to help our communities address this crisis. Background: 70 percent of the almost 15 million Americans misusing drugs, including opioids, are currently employed. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the number of overdose fatalities on the job has increased by at least 25 percent annually since 2012. In February of this year, the Subcommittee on Health, Employment, Labor, and Pensions, and the Subcommittee on Workforce Protections held a joint hearing to examine how the epidemic is affecting workplaces and hear from business owners who have taken steps to address problems of substance abuse and addiction in the workplace. The U.S. Department of Labor could benefit greatly from more information about the solutions originating from the private sector to address the challenges of maintaining a healthy workforce in the face of the opioid epidemic. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://jasonlewis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=170 Lewis supports veterans and WOTUS repeal 2018-06-08 2018 2018-06 Republican House MN Jason Lewis L000587 jasonlewis.house.gov     legacy Lewis supports veterans and WOTUS repeal f t # e Washington, June 8, 2018 WASHINGTON, D.C.- Congressman Jason Lewis (MN-02) issued the following statement after voting in favor of H.R. 5895, the Energy and Water, Legislative Branch, and Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Act, which included the repeal of the Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule, prioritizes Yucca Mountain as a solution for our spent nuclear fuel storage issues, and fully funds important Veteran Affairs (VA) services. After numerous attempts to repeal WOTUS for its bureaucratic micromanagement of even the smallest of streams, farm ditches and creek beds, I'm glad my colleagues could come together to relieve farmers and landowners alike in Minnesota and across the country. I'm also pleased that it takes steps to address nuclear fuel storage issues at Prairie Island by restarting the process to use Yucca Mountain as a solution. Finally, I'm proud to deliver full funding to the VA to support mental health programs, medical community care facilities, and address the egregious VA claims backlog. f t # e 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://paulsen.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=22&itemid=1979 House-Passed Water Infrastructure Bill Includes Paulsen Measure on Upper St. Anthony Falls Lock & Dam 2018-06-07 2018 2018-06 Republican House MN Erik Paulsen P000594 paulsen.house.gov     legacy Washington The House of Representatives last night approved H.R. 8, the Water Resources Development Act, bipartisan legislation that authorizes investments into American ports, waterways, locks and dams. The legislation approved a measure introduced by Representatives Erik Paulsen (R-Minn.) and Keith Ellison (D-Minn.) to expedite a study into alternative uses for the Upper St. Anthony Falls Lock and Dam. The lock has been closed to prevent the spread of Asian carp up the Mississippi River system. There is wide support in the community for re-purposing the site as a visitor center. Rep. Paulsen spoke on the House floor in support of the measure prior to Wednesday's vote. The amendment was adopted into the legislation by a unanimous voice vote. The broader legislation was approved with a 408-2 vote late last night. The Upper Lock, which is located in the heart of the Twin Cities and within a National Park is at the only major waterfall on the entire length of the Mississippi River,said Representative Paulsen. It presents a unique opportunity to transform the waterfront of the Twin Cities. The public interest here cannot be overstated, and there are several adopted plans for the area as a result by the City, the Park Board, the Downtown Council, local neighborhoods, and the Heritage Board, Paulsen continued. Local government actions reflect a readiness and commitment on the part of local government to engage. The Upper Lock disposition study should therefore move forward expeditiously. This amendment is an exciting milestone in allowing our community to reimagine the site at the St. Anthony Falls Lock and Dam,said Representative Ellison. I look forward to seeing this site become a place for all Minnesotans to engage with the Mississippi River in new ways. A video of Rep. Paulsen's remarks on the House floor is available here. The full text of the Paulsen-Ellison Amendment can be viewed here. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://jasonlewis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=168 Lewis encourages local input in dredging-material management 2018-06-06 2018 2018-06 Republican House MN Jason Lewis L000587 jasonlewis.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C.- Congressman Jason Lewis (MN-02) issued the following statement after his amendment, attached to the Water Resources and Development Act of 2018 (WRDA), passed out of the House tonight urging the US Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) to consider alternative dredged-material management plans. With the passage of WRDA we are continuing to deliver on our infrastructure promises. In addition to the aviation infrastructure funding we approved in April, this bill provides robust support for our waterways, ports, locks, dams, and other water infrastructure while retaining environmental protections and supporting ecosystem restoration that generates economic growth. I was also pleased my amendment was included in this bill. As someone whose family business was taken due to eminent domain, I know the importance of having local input in plans that would significantly affect communities. Just yesterday the city of Wabasha and the Corps signed an agreement to work on an alternative plan for dredged material that would spare a local family farm from destruction. My amendment will help ensure this plan is fully considered by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Background: The passage of this bill follows suit with a two year WRDA authorization cycle, well ahead of the end of 2018 and preserves the Congressional intent to readdress our water infrastructure next Congress. The bill addresses navigation, flood control, beach erosion control and shoreline protection, hydroelectric power, recreation, water supply, environmental protection, restoration, and fish and wildlife mitigation needs across the country.These functions are critical to maintaining the country's economic prosperity, national security, and environmental protection. Over the past year, the Drysdale family has been battling with the potential loss of their farm land to a 40 year Dredged Material Management Plan drafted by the Corps.Their farm and other parcels of land in the area would become a dredged-material dump zone through the use of eminent d… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://jasonlewis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=169 Lewis attends signing of VA MISSION Act at White House 2018-06-06 2018 2018-06 Republican House MN Jason Lewis L000587 jasonlewis.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON D.C.- Congressman Jason Lewis (MN-02) issued the following statement after joining President Donald Trump at the White House this afternoon for the signing of S. 2372, the VA MISSION Act of 2018. With the signing of the VA MISSION Act today, I'm proud that we are making concrete steps to improve health care under the VA. Reforms made to the Veterans Choice program will increase veterans' medical access and flexibility to choose their own doctors and caregivers. Caregivers will also receive expanded benefits to properly compensate them for their selfless commitment to help our country's heroes. I'm proud to support the brave men and women who have dedicated their lives to protecting our country by fighting for better and more efficient care, and I'm glad we could get this done on the anniversary of D-Day. Background: The VA MISSION Act of 2018 is a bipartisan compromise aimed at modernizing the VA through various steps, including: Reforming and continuing funding for the Choice Program to ensure veterans can seek the medical care of their choosing, while also streamlining the program so veterans have more flexibility to seek medical care outside the VA system. Modernizing VA medical facilities to improve care for veterans by updating infrastructure and auditing the VA's assets. Creating equity between seriously injured pre-9/11 and post-9/11 veterans by allowing pre-9/11 caregivers to receive a monthly stipend and other support. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://jasonlewis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=167 Lewis supports Wabasha dredging MOU 2018-06-05 2018 2018-06 Republican House MN Jason Lewis L000587 jasonlewis.house.gov     legacy Lewis supports Wabasha dredging MOU f t # e Washington, June 5, 2018 WASHINGTON, D.C- Congressman Jason Lewis (MN-02) issued the following statement in regard to the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that was signed tonight by the US Army Corps of Engineers (Corps), the City of Wabasha, and the Wabasha Port Authority, establishing a partnership for a dredged material placement facility in Wabasha. I know first-hand how the eminent domain process can unfairly destroy a family business and I'm so pleased that the Drysdale's property rights are being respected.The MOU, signed by the City of Wabasha, the Corps, and Wabasha Port Authority, will help develop a plan that gives control of dredged materials to our local officials. This is a great start to ensuring that local residents have an opportunity to be heard in this important local matter. I look forward to advocating in support of this MOU in Washington. f t # e 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://paulsen.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=22&itemid=1981 Citing Tariffs, Lawmakers Express Concern Over Consumer Technology Prices 2018-06-01 2018 2018-06 Republican House MN Erik Paulsen P000594 paulsen.house.gov     legacy Washington Congressmen Erik Paulsen (MN-03) and Suzan DelBene (WA-01) are leading a bipartisan group of lawmakers this week to voice concerns over the impact of proposed tariffs on consumer electronic prices paid by U.S. consumers. In a letter to U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer, the lawmakers cite their concerns that the Administration's tariff proposal would hike prices on a range of consumer technology products. The letter was signed by 34 members of both parties. It has been widely reported that actual or potential tariffs are already causing pain for U.S. agricultural exports, including pork, soybeans, corn and beef. Furthermore, we are equally worried that the imposition of these tariffs on everyday consumer products would amount to a de facto tax increase that disproportionately affects middle class and low-income American consumers,the lawmakers wrote. The lawmakers cited specific products that may cost more for U.S. consumers as a result of the tariffs. According to a recent study done for the Consumer Technology Association and the National Retail Federation, increasing current U.S. tariffs on televisions by 25% would cost U.S. consumers $711 million in the first year alone; for ink and cartridges, U.S. consumers would pay an additional $529 million; and costs would also significantly increase for U.S. consumers of computer monitors (by $172 million) and batteries (by $24 million). We believe you have many tools at your disposal to achieve our shared objections. In particular, we urge you to work as closely as possible with our allies who share our concerns about China's unfair trade practices, and have begun to address these practices more directly thanks to U.S. leadership. We should avoid creating disincentives for our allies to join us in taking strong action, which higher tariffs could do. The most effective approach is for the international, not the United States alone, to stand up to China's unfair trade practices,the lawmakers concluded. A signed copy of theletter … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-recognizes-military-academy-appointees Emmer Recognizes Military Academy Appointees 2018-05-31 2018 2018-05 Republican House MN Tom Emmer E000294 emmer.house.gov     legacy Otsego, MN Today, Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) congratulated the Military Academy appointees nominated by his office. Chloe Foster (Forest Lake), has been selected to attend the United States Military Academy-West Point; Riley Keck (Forest Lake) has been selected to attend the United States Military Academy-West Point; Adam Nygaard (Big Lake) has been selected to attend the United States Naval Academy; and Audrey Gadison (Blaine), has been selected to attend the United States Air Force Academy. I am ecstatic that Chloe, Riley, Adam, and Audrey will be representing Minnesota's Sixth District at our United States Military Academies, said Congressman Emmer. These young Minnesotans have worked hard to earn this great honor and I wish them continued success as they take their next steps! (From left to right, Adam Nygaard, Chloe Foster, Congressman Emmer. Not pictured: Audrey Gadison, Riley Keck) ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/secretary-zinke-announces-19-new-national-recreation-trails-17-states Secretary Zinke Announces 19 New National Recreation Trails in 17 States 2018-05-30 2018 2018-05 Republican House MN Tom Emmer E000294 emmer.house.gov     legacy (Courtesy of U.S. Department of the Interior) WASHINGTON - Continuing his work to expand recreational opportunities on public lands, U.S. Secretary of the Interior Ryan Zinke today designated 19 national recreation trails in 17 states, adding more than 370 miles to the national recreation trails system of more than 1,000 trails in all 50 states. By designating these new national trails, we acknowledge the efforts of local communities to provide outdoor recreational opportunities that can be enjoyed by everyone, said Secretary Zinke. Our network of national trails provides easily accessible places to exercise and connect with nature in both urban and rural areas while boosting tourism and supporting economic opportunities across the country. On Saturday, June 2, hundreds of organized activities are planned as part of American Hiking Society's National Trails Day, including hikes, educational programs, bike rides, trail rehabilitation projects, festivals, paddle trips, and trail dedications. Trails of the National Recreation Trails system range from less than a mile to 485 miles in length and have been designated on federal, state, municipal and privately owned lands. The network of national recreation trails offers expansive opportunities for Americans to explore the great outdoors, said National Park Service Deputy Director Dan Smith. As we celebrate the 50th anniversary of the National Trails System, I hope everyone will take advantage of a nearby national trail to hike or bike. While national scenic trails and national historic trails may only be designated by an act of Congress, national recreation trails may be designated by the Secretary of the Interior or the Secretary of Agriculture in response to an application from the trail's managing agency or organization. The National Recreation Trails Program is jointly administered by the National Park Service and the U.S. Forest Service, in conjunction with a number of Federal and not-for-profit partners, notably American Trails, which hosts the National Recreatio… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://jasonlewis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=166 Lewis: Families finally have the ‘right to try’ 2018-05-30 2018 2018-05 Republican House MN Jason Lewis L000587 jasonlewis.house.gov     legacy Lewis: Families finally have the right to try' f t # e Washington, May 30, 2018 WASHINGTON D.C.- Congressman Jason Lewis (MN-02) issued the following statement after President Trump signed the Right to Try Act in to law today. Successfully passing this legislation and having it signed by the President means giving loved ones, friends, and family across the nation a chance to fight for their lives. Right to Try gives terminally-ill patients the ability to use all available resources, including new drugs that have passed preliminary FDA safety tests, to treat their diseases. I'm proud to help give families hope when hope was seemingly lost. Background: The Right to Try Act was originally introduced in the House on February 7, 2017 to give patients a chance to receive treatments that haven't yet completed the years-long FDA approval process. Rep. Lewis was an original cosponsor. These drugs have passed safety tests and offer benefits that outweigh the risks for the terminally ill. Right to Try is law in 38 states, including Minnesota, and this bill would make sure that the FDA respects state law while maintaining safeguards, such as physician certification. The House passed the Senate version of the bill, and President Trump signed it into law on May 30th, 2018. f t # e 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/icymi-fox-news-emmer-calls-president-forest-service-end-redundant-study ICYMI: On Fox News, Emmer calls on President, Forest Service to end redundant study and save thousands of Minnesota jobs 2018-05-29 2018 2018-05 Republican House MN Tom Emmer E000294 emmer.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC - Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) joined Fox News Channel's Fox @ Night to discussmining in Minnesota and the need to reverse the last minute actions by the Obama administration to stop exploration of some of the most valuable precious metal deposits in the world. Congressman Emmer said [in part]: What happened under the Obama Administration, the day President Obama was leaving they tried to kill two potential leases for mining opportunities in Northern Minnesota. They started a study to withdraw 234,000 acres from any future exploration or potential development. This would be huge in Minnesota because you are talking 5,000 potential mining jobs, not to mention the 12,000 construction jobs that you would have if someone actually proposed a mine on one of these two leases. Now, thanks to President Trump and his administration, the Department of the Interior has announced they are renewing the two leases that President Obama tried to kill. We still have the study that is ongoing with the Forest Service that the President needs to end. That study has been going on for 17 months. It needs to be done so that they can get to the business of exploring whether or not the great people of Minnesota can mine the largest copper nickel deposit in the world. What the President has done with his administration is revitalize the opportunity for mining in Northern Minnesota. Now, we have to follow through. They have to end the study, get the leases finalized, and grow not only wealth but protect our precious minerals. If we have to go get them somewhere else, this is a national security threat. The President has done amazing things so far, they just have to close the loop on this. We have to make sure not only are the leases renewed but the study is ended so we can get on with the business of exploration and hopefully someday, development. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/icymi-watch-house-agriculture-committee-features-rep-emmer ICYMI: WATCH: House Agriculture Committee Features Rep. Emmer on #FARMBILLFRIDAY Video Series 2018-05-25 2018 2018-05 Republican House MN Tom Emmer E000294 emmer.house.gov     legacy In this week's #FarmBillFriday, Rep. Tom Emmer (MN-6) underscores the impact depressed commodity prices and drops in net farm income have had on the lives of farmers and ranchers across the country. The STRESS Act, a measure he introduced, is included in the 2018 Farm Bill and will help address the mental and emotional strains of farming against the backdrop of today's down farm economy. Rep. Emmer said [in part]: This isn't just an occupation, it's a way of life. Right now farmers, ranchers, and agricultural workers across the country are looking to Congress for a strong farm bill. Because life on the farm isn't what it used to be. Today, farmers are suffering some of the worst rates of suicide in the nation. Stress to make ends meet, social isolation, downturn of the market, low farm income, regulatory strains, and lack of treatment options all make it hard for farmers to get the help they need. That is why I introduced legislation to boost resources specifically for farmer's mental health. With the support of Chairman Conaway and the House Agriculture Committee, I am proud to report help is on the way. Our farmers who feed the world are feeling the weight of the world on their shoulders. It's time we get them the help and care they deserve. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-attends-white-house-signing-ceremony Emmer Attends White House Signing Ceremony 2018-05-24 2018 2018-05 Republican House MN Tom Emmer E000294 emmer.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC - Today Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) attended the White House Signing Ceremony for S. 2155 Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act. Congressman Emmer looked on as the President signed the bill, which includes Emmer's Home Mortgage Disclosure Adjustment Act (HMDAA), into law. The President said, in part: I'm going to read a few names because these people worked hard. This is all about the Dodd-Frank disaster. And they fixed it, or at least have gone a long way toward fixing it... Jim Banks, Andy Barr, Kevin Cramer, Sean Duffy, Tom Emmer... Today's legislation is the next step in America's unprecedented economic comeback... So I'll be signing now a very, very important bill from the standpoint of people, and jobs, and loans, and getting out there and building a business. And it's a tremendous honor to be with all of you folks today. And thank you for the great job. Thank you for this incredible amount of work. I know how hard this one was... Emmer (center back) looks on as the President signs S.2155 into law. Disclaimer Official White House Photo by Shealah Craighead This photograph is provided by THE WHITE HOUSE as a courtesy and may be printed by the subject(s) in the photograph for personal use only. The photograph may not be manipulated in any way and may not otherwise be reproduced, disseminated or broadcast, without the written permission of the White House Photo Office. This photograph may not be used in any commercial or political materials, advertisements, emails, products, promotions that in any way suggests approval or endorsement of the President, the First Family, or the White House. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://paulsen.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=22&itemid=1977 Town Hall Signup Information 2018-05-24 2018 2018-05 Republican House MN Erik Paulsen P000594 paulsen.house.gov     legacy Thank you for your interest in joining Congressman Paulsen for a town hall meeting. We're still finalizing details, but you can use the links below to register in advance. Paulsen Town Hall in Hamel Wednesday, May 30th, 2018 10 a.m. Constituent RSVP Here Paulsen Town Hall in Chanhassen Wednesday, May 30th, 2018 1:30 p.m. Constituent RSVP Here Paulsen Town Hall in Brooklyn Park Wednesday, May 30th, 2018 6:30 p.m. Constituent RSVP Here 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://jasonlewis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=163 Lewis continues to push for DoD efficiencies 2018-05-23 2018 2018-05 Republican House MN Jason Lewis L000587 jasonlewis.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C.- Congressman Jason Lewis (MN-02) issued the following statement in regards to the six amendments he cosponsored or submitted to the National Defense Authorization Act of 2019 in the name of promoting more transparency and accountability at the Department of Defense (DoD). At a time when our national debt is over $21 trillion, Americans are questioning whether Washington is serious about reducing government spending. But genuine shared sacrifice means every program and every department deserves fiscal scrutiny. Though we must provide the additional resources our troops need to protect us, the $700 billion Pentagon budget also needs reform. That's why it's crucial that we work toward full auditability of the Department of Defense and why I introduced the Defense Spending Accountability Act last year. It is also why I have worked on six bipartisan amendments to the FY19 NDAA to increase oversight, transparency, and accountability at the DoD, including leading an amendment to ensure that we authorize DoD programs before we appropriate money to thema neglected protocol that was exploited during the last omnibus when Congress appropriated billions of dollars to numerous unauthorized programs. Since coming to Congress, I've promoted acrossthe boardspending restraintand I will continue to push forDoDfiscal responsibility. Background: The following are the six amendments Congressman Lewis cosponsored or submitted to the National Defense Authorization Act of 2019. 1) Requires a report ranking all military departments and Defense Agencies in order of how advanced they are in achieving auditable financial statements as required by law. The DoD is still the only department in the federal government that is not auditable, even though it has been required in law for decades. Cosponsors: Lee, Barbara (CA), Lance (NJ), DeFazio (OR), Jones (NC), Welch (VT), Schakowsky (IL) 2) Reduces the Overseas Contingency Operations (OCO) by $9,000,000,000. The FY18 Budget Resolution set OCO spending to decrease to $60 bi… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z

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