press: releases: 590 rows where state = "AL" and year = 2013 sorted by date descending

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590 rows where state = "AL" and year = 2013 sorted by date descending

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url	title	date ▲	year	month	party	chamber	state	member_name	bioguide_id	domain	date_source	text	has_text	collected_at	updated_at
http://roby.house.gov/roby-news/congress-could-reconsider-military-pension-cut-january	Congress could reconsider military pension cut in January	2013-12-29	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	AL	Martha Roby	R000591	roby.house.gov	legacy	A cut to military retirement pay in the budget signed Thursday by President Obama has already triggered such a backlash that Congress may vote in January to toss it out. Some lawmakers who represent districts with a military presence — and who voted for the overall budget — are vowing to overturn the pension change as soon as the House and the Senate reconvene Friday. Several House and Senate lawmakers in both parties, responding to heavy lobbying from advocates for service members and veterans, already have introduced bills that would restore full cost-of-living increases for military retirees of working age. Reps. Rodney Davis (R-Ill.) and Michael G. Fitzpatrick (R-Pa.) have introduced a bill that would restore the annual cost-of-living adjustment for about 800,000 enlisted troops and officers who retire in their early 40s, then take other jobs outside the military. In the budget passed this month, the COLA for working-age retirees was reduced by 1 percentage point; once the retirees turn 62, they go back to receiving the full increase. The cut is expected to save the government about $6 billion over 10 years, and it is set to be phased in over three years. Davis and Fitzpatrick’s bill would find the savings instead by asking the Internal Revenue Service to crack down on Americans who file fraudulent claims for child tax credits. “I think we need to make the fix right now,” said Davis, whose Illinois district includes many former service members and employees at nearby Scott Air Force Base. At a meet-and-greet with constituents in his district recently, many voters were livid at the pension cut, Davis said. To them and him, he said, the federal government is unfairly breaking a promise it made to service members. “A lot of people joined the military and made huge sacrifices because they were promised a benefit,” he said. “To go back on that is wrong.” Rep. Martha Roby (R-Ala.) said she is partnering with Fitzpatrick on the legislation. “I believe that this is a fix the Republican conference can rally around,” s…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://roby.house.gov/press-release/roby-moves-protect-military-pensions	Roby Moves To Protect Military Pensions	2013-12-19	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	AL	Martha Roby	R000591	roby.house.gov	legacy	Just one day after Congress passed a landmark budget agreement to control spending for the next two years, U.S. Representative Martha Roby (R-AL) is moving to replace one of the plan’s least popular provisions and ensure that military retirees are not unfairly penalized under the new law. Rep. Roby is partnering with Rep. Mike Fitzpatrick (R-PA) and other lawmakers to repeal a provision that reduces working-age military pensions beginning in 2015 and replace it with a measure to prevent illegal aliens from receiving fraudulent cash payments from the government in the form of the Refundable Child Tax Credit. “There are many good things in the budget agreement passed by Congress: setting a sustainable path of controlled federal spending, preventing some of the harmful sequestration cuts to our military, and returning Congress to regular order to end the days of massive temporary spending bills passed at the last minute. I applaud the negotiators for tackling a difficult challenge and producing the first compromise budget in a divided government in 27 years," Rep. Roby said. “However, the final product was not what I would have drafted, and House members were not given the opportunity to improve the bill through amendments on the floor. One provision that is particularly troublesome is the one percent reduction in the cost of living adjustment for working age military retirees beginning in 2015. Just look at the vast federal government that is rife with waste. Are reductions to military benefits really the best place for Congress to make cuts? I don’t think so, and I that’s why I believe that provision should be removed.” The legislation introduced today in the House – H.R. 3788 – is a compliment to an amendment offered by Sen. Jeff Sessions (R-AL) during debate on the budget plan in the Senate. It removes the cost-of-living increase reduction and replaces it with a measure closing a tax loophole that allows ineligible, non-citizens to receive fraudulent cash payments in the form of a Refundable Child Tax Credit. Th…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://roby.house.gov/roby-news/house-republicans-revive-effort-stop-vet-benefit-cuts-closing-tax-credit-loophole	House Republicans revive effort to stop vet benefit cuts by closing tax credit loophole	2013-12-19	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	AL	Martha Roby	R000591	roby.house.gov	legacy	Alabama Republican Rep. Martha Roby and Pennsylvania Republican Rep. Mike Fitzpatrick are attempting to revive an effort to prevent cuts to military retirement benefits by closing a loophole that has allowed illegal immigrants to unlawfully obtain welfare benefits. Earlier this week during Senate debate on the two-year budget deal — which cuts military pensions by $6 billion over 10 years — Senate Democrats foiled Alabama Republican Sen. Jeff Sessions’ attempt to halt the cuts by closing the same loophole. The loophole in question allows tax filers without a Social Security number to claim Additional Child Tax Credits by filing returns with an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number, a policy the Treasury inspector general for tax administration reported cost taxpayers $4.2 billion in 2010. While Senate Republicans were unable to prevent the cuts to military retirement benefits contained in the budget deal brokered by Senate Budget Committee Chairwoman Patty Murray and House Budget Committee Chairman Paul Ryan, concerns remain about the House- and Senate-passed cuts. Thursday, Fitzpatrick and Roby introduced a companion to Session’s amendment, which would close the loophole by requiring people to have a Social Security number to obtain Additional Child Tax Credits and halt the cuts to military retirement benefits. “We need to make this right. In the coming weeks, we will try to use our position of strength in the House majority to improve upon the budget agreement and better prioritize our budget savings,” Roby said, commending Sessions’ earlier effort and adding that she spoke to House leadership this morning to highlight the proposal. Fitzpatrick and Roby’s bill currently has 45 co-sponsors — including one Democrat, Rep. John Barrow from Georgia. “The non-partisan Joint Tax Commission reported last year that by closing the loophole for fraudulent payments, the taxpayer could save nearly $7 billion over 10 years,” Fitzpatrick said. “That’s enough to remove the need to make any changes to military benefits.” On…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://roby.house.gov/roby-news/rep-martha-roby-joins-fight-protect-military-retirees-house-bill-designed-stop-pension	Rep. Martha Roby joins fight to protect military retirees, House bill designed to stop pension cuts	2013-12-19	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	AL	Martha Roby	R000591	roby.house.gov	legacy	Just one day after the Senate's passage of a two-year budget agreement, Montgomery Republican Martha Roby is joining with other representatives to try and change one of its most controversial provisions. Roby, along with Rep. Mike Fitzgerald, R-Penn., is joining with other lawmakers to repeal a provision that reduces pensions for working age military retirees beginning in 2015. Roby said she'd like to see the cuts replaced with a measure to prevent illegal aliens from receiving payments through the Refundable Child Tax Credit. Roby, who voted for the budget plan in the House, said it does set a sustainable path for controlled federal spending and lessens the impact sequestration will have on the military. However, she said House members were not allowed to present amendments to the bill once it was on the House floor. "One provision that is particularly troublesome is the one percent reduction in the cost of living adjustment for working age military retirees beginning in 2015. Just look at the vast federal government that is rife with waste. Are reductions to military benefits really the best place for Congress to make cuts? I don't think so, and that is why I believe that provision should be removed," Roby said. The bill is the House version of one introduced earlier by Sen. Jeff Sessions, R-AL. A vote on Sessions measure was blocked, however, and lawmakers have vowed to repeal the measure. The House bill introduced today would require recipients of the Refundable Child Tax Credit to be eligible citizens. The change could save as much as $7 billion a year as compared to the $6 billion in savings over the next decade from the cuts to cost-of-living adjustments for retired veterans younger than age 62. Roby said she is working to have the measure come before the House when it returns in 2014. "We need to make this right. In the coming weeks, we will try to use our position of strength in the House majority to improve upon the budget agreement and better prioritize our budget savings," Roby said. To read this arti…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://roby.house.gov/roby-news/fort-rucker-army-officials-talk-sequester-lawmakers	Fort Rucker, Army officials talk sequester with lawmakers	2013-12-17	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	AL	Martha Roby	R000591	roby.house.gov	legacy	Predictability and flexibility. That’s what top Fort Rucker and Army officials told members of Congress they need to ensure the future of Army aviation at a panel discussion held Tuesday on post. Rep. Martha Roby, R-Montgomery, and Rep. Michael Turner, R-Ohio, met with military officials to discuss the impact of sequestration on Fort Rucker and Army aviation. Sequestration refers to a series of mandatory cuts legislators agreed to enact if they were unable to agree upon a budget. The mandatory cuts were meant to encourage lawmakers to work toward passing a budget. They failed, and as a result, these automatic cuts went into effect in March. Maj. Gen. Kevin Mangum, Fort Rucker commanding general, said the cuts had severely impacted the post’s mission of training new pilots. Mangum said the post has seen about $250 million in cuts over the past year and, as a result, fewer pilots are being trained. Mangum said the post went from training 1,300 pilots last year to less than 1,200 this year and will train around 899 pilots next year. “We’re not changing the standard, but we are changing the student load,” Mangum said. Maj. Gen. William Crosby, Program Executive Officer, PEO-Aviation, told Roby and Turner that one of the most detrimental aspects of the sequester and federal budget wrangles was that it made it difficult to plan and to sign long-term contracts with contractors. Crosby said being unable to plan is counterproductive to actually saving money, as unexpected cuts led to expensive program changes and cancellations. Being unable to sign multi-year contracts robs the military of the ability to lock in cost savings through bargains from contractors, Crosby said. Crosby told the lawmakers that military leaders need stability in the budgeting process and the flexibility to prioritize what cuts need to be made when funding reductions are necessary. Crosby said a steady revenue stream and the ability to plan is necessary to provide military contractors with the business they need to stay afloat and invest in further…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://roby.house.gov/roby-news/rep-martha-roby-hosts-panel-about-army-aviation	Rep. Martha Roby hosts panel about army aviation	2013-12-17	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	AL	Martha Roby	R000591	roby.house.gov	legacy	A panel discussion with Representative Martha Roby and Fort Rucker officials was held today. The main topic of concern was the future of army aviation in the midst of sequestration. Ohio representative, Michael Turner is the chairman of the House Armed Services Tactical Air and Land Forces subcommittee. As chairman of the committee that oversees important Army and Air Force programs, he wanted to learn more about army aviation. Representative Martha Roby saw the request as an opportunity for Fort Rucker officials to explain issues they're facing to the key policy maker. "It's extremely important for him to have a front row seat as to what our commanders are doing here at Rucker and how important that is for the future and army aviation," said Roby. She says meetings like today are vital to understanding and later lobbying for army program funding during budget cuts. "Whenever we go to someone to try to advocate, another member of congress or a committee chairman or we're trying to make changes of bills, our ability to cite specifics really enhances success," said Turner. Many specific examples were given today; officials say the hardest hit area is training. Just in flight training this upcoming year at Fort Rucker almost 30 percent less trainees were able to be accepted. Not only are the amount of students cut, the complexity of situations given to the trainees are being limited. "The issue of training is the most important topic because it goes to how do we keep out service members ready for the challenges that they absolutely are going to face and here at this facility you have both hands on training and simulated training and they had a great discussion to make sure our service members get both,” said Turner. Officials say that without proper training, when the nation calls on them they'll be assuming some risk.A budget deal that passed in the House is likely to pass in the senate in a final vote sometime this week. If it does pass through the Senate and later the president, it would ease some of those spendi…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://roby.house.gov/roby-news/roby-turner-discuss-budget-concerns-post-leaders	Roby, Turner discuss budget concerns with post leaders	2013-12-17	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	AL	Martha Roby	R000591	roby.house.gov	legacy	As a two-year, bipartisan budget agreement for fiscal year 2014 and 2015 continues to make its way through Congress, United States Rep. Martha Roby and Chairman of the House Armed Services Tactical Air and Land Forces Subcommittee Rep. Michael Turner sat down with Fort Rucker leaders Dec. 17 at the post’s Headquarters Building to discuss the impacts of sequestration and the future of Army aviation. The panel discussion included Maj. Gen. Kevin Mangum, commander of the U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence; Maj. Gen. William Crosby, program executive officer of the Program Executive Office of Aviation; Col. Frank Tate, director of aviation for the Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff; and Col. John Lindsay, director of Army Aviation for the Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff. “I take every opportunity I can to share with my colleagues in Washington the great things that are happening right here at Fort Rucker, as well as Maxwell Air Force Base in Montgomery, but there’s no better way for you (Turner) to understand what we have here than to see it,” Roby said. During the past year, the Department of Defense has seen its fair share of budget constraints due to cuts and sequestration, but this past summer Fort Rucker leaders were able to avert the cuts on flight training hours and the student load thanks to cost efficiencies and savings. However, as the Department of the Army continued to make tough budget decisions for fiscal year 2014, the DOA recently announced Fort Rucker will experience a reduction in the number of aviation soldiers trained by the post. Mangum described to Roby and Turner the effects the post has felt the past year with sequestration and the fiscal restraints it expects to see with proposed cuts in the two-year budget plan. In fiscal year 2013, Mangum said the post saw a $138 million decrement and trained less than 1,200 students. For fiscal year 2014, Mangum said Fort Rucker will see a $112 million decrement and will reduce its flight-training load to 899 students. “Over the past year…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140222045906/http://www.sessions.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=127c89c8-d033-ff80-1a1b-7e191c7b922d	Sessions, Vitter Demand Accounting Of Taxpayer Funds Wasted On EPAs Unnecessary Ozone Proposal	2013-12-17	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	AL	Jeff Sessions	S001141	web.archive.org	legacy	WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Jeff Sessions (R-AL), ranking member of the Senate Budget Committee and Senate EPW Committee Ranking Member David Vitter, joined by all Republican members of the Senate EPW Committee, wrote EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy today to renew a longstanding, unanswered request for an accounting of taxpayer funds wasted during EPA’s unnecessary, and ultimately abandoned, reconsideration of the ozone standard in the 2010-2011 timeframe. The text of the letter follows: To view it as a PDF, please click here: December 17, 2013 “The Honorable Gina McCarthy Administrator U.S. Environmental Protection Agency 1200 Pennsylvania Avenue NW Washington DC 20460 Re: Taxpayer Funds Expended on Reconsideration of Ozone NAAQS Dear Administrator McCarthy: We are writing to renew a longstanding, unanswered request for data related to federal funds and resources expended as part of EPA’s unnecessary reconsideration of the national ambient air quality standard (NAAQS) for ground level ozone in the 2010-2011 timeframe. As you know, ozone attainment status significantly impacts state and local transportation planning, energy production and use, and economic development. EPA’s reconsideration of the ozone standard in 2010-2011, years ahead of the regularly-scheduled review process established in the Clean Air Act (CAA), caused economic and regulatory uncertainty throughout the United States. Private businesses and organizations as well as federal, state, and local agencies incurred significant expenses analyzing EPA’s proposal as well as participating in the public comment process. As the Assistant Administrator with responsibility for EPA’s Office of Air & Radiation at the time, you led this ozone reconsideration effort and, as the Administrator, you are responsible for overseeing the current ozone review. Many recognized EPA’s reconsideration initiative as lengthy and unnecessary. For example, a recent report by the Congressional Research Service (CRS) suggests that the reconsideration was done as a…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://roby.house.gov/press-release/roby-hosts-armed-services-committee-leader-fort-rucker	Roby Hosts Armed Services Committee Leader at Fort Rucker	2013-12-16	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	AL	Martha Roby	R000591	roby.house.gov	legacy	U.S. Representative Martha Roby (R-AL) will host the Chairman of the House Armed Services Tactical Air and Land Forces Subcommittee, Rep. Michael Turner (R-OH), for a visit to the U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence at Fort Rucker on Tuesday, December 17. The visit will include a panel discussion on the future of Army aviation and the ongoing impact of budget cuts known as sequestration. Following the panel, Rep. Roby will accompany Chairman Turner on a tour of the post and meetings with other Fort Rucker officials. "I look forward to visiting Fort Rucker and discussing the future of Army Aviation," Rep. Turner said. "I appreciate Martha hosting this panel discussion and the post leadership at Fort Rucker for having us." "I'm grateful to Chairman Turner for taking time out of his busy schedule to come visit Fort Rucker," Rep. Roby said. "While recent developments make the budget outlook more promising, the impact of sequestration is still very real. Tuesday we'll have an opportunity to discuss what lies ahead for Army aviation, and there's no better place for that discussion than Fort Rucker. I look for opportunities to share with my fellow Members of Congress the value Fort Rucker adds to the U.S. Armed Forces. This visit will offer Chairman Turner a chance to meet post and community leaders and gain first-hand knowledge of the unique mission at Fort Rucker." The panel will include: • Major General Kevin Mangum, Commander, U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence, • Major General William Crosby, Program Executive Officer, PEO-Aviation, • Colonel Frank Tate, Director of Aviation, Office of the Deputy COS, G8, • Colonel John Lindsay, Director of Army Aviation, Office of the Deputy COS, G3. The Subcommittee on Tactical Air and Land Forces conducts oversight of ammunition programs, Army and Air Force acquisition programs, Navy and Marine Corps aviation programs, as well as National Guard and Army and Air Force National Guard and Reserve. The subcommittee also authorizes…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://roby.house.gov/roby-news/roby-hosts-armed-services-committee-leader-fort-rucker	Roby Hosts Armed Services Committee Leader at Fort Rucker	2013-12-14	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	AL	Martha Roby	R000591	roby.house.gov	legacy	U.S. Representative Martha Roby (R-AL) will host the Chairman of the House Armed Services Tactical Air and Land Forces Subcommittee, Rep. Michael Turner (R-OH), for a visit to the U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence at Fort Rucker on Tuesday, December 17. The visit will include a panel discussion on the future of Army aviation and the ongoing impact of budget cuts known as sequestration. Following the panel, Rep. Roby will accompany Chairman Turner on a tour of the post and meetings with other Fort Rucker officials. "I look forward to visiting Fort Rucker and discussing the future of Army Aviation," Rep. Turner said. "I appreciate Martha hosting this panel discussion and the post leadership at Fort Rucker for having us." "I'm grateful to Chairman Turner for taking time out of his busy schedule to come visit Fort Rucker," Rep. Roby said. "While recent developments make the budget outlook more promising, the impact of sequestration is still very real. Tuesday we'll have an opportunity to discuss what lies ahead for Army aviation, and there's no better place for that discussion than Fort Rucker. I look for opportunities to share with my fellow Members of Congress the value Fort Rucker adds to the U.S. Armed Forces. This visit will offer Chairman Turner a chance to meet post and community leaders and gain first-hand knowledge of the unique mission at Fort Rucker." To read this article on the publication's website, click here.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://mike-rogers.house.gov/press-release/rogers-passage-2014-defense-bill	Rogers on Passage of 2014 Defense Bill	2013-12-13	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	AL	Mike Rogers	R000575	mike-rogers.house.gov	legacy	(WASHINGTON, DC)—Congressman Mike Rogers made the following statement today after voting in support of the Fiscal Year 2014 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which passed the House of Representatives today after being negotiated between the House and the Senate Armed Services Committees. “The NDAA is critical to our national security. The world remains a dangerous place and this bill plays a vital part in guiding our military. I am pleased to see passage of this important bill after a lot of hard work and many long hours,” Rogers said. “When it comes to our nation’s defense, so many of the President’s policies have been a disaster– from his kowtowing to Russia to his interim deal with Iran, which will guarantee that state obtains a nuclear weapon. Our defenses and deterrent are more important than ever.” As Chairman of the House Armed Services Strategic Forces Subcommittee, Rogers worked to ensure the ongoing modernization of our missile defense, as well as our nuclear and space forces. In addition, he continued his longstanding efforts to help strengthen vital military facilities across East Alabama like the Anniston Army Depot, Maxwell Air Force Base, and Fort Benning. Within the Strategic Forces subcommittee’s jurisdiction, the bill includes provisions authored by Rogers to ensure the United States is not relying on the space capabilities of China and to prohibit Russia from using U.S. soil for Russian satellite ground stations. Additionally, the bill prohibits the exchange of sensitive U.S. missile defense technology with Russia and prohibits the integration of Chinese missile defense technology with U.S. missile defenses, as could be the result of the proposed procurement of such technology by the Republic of Turkey. In addition, it fully funds the B61 Life Extension Program which is vital to our national security and an important component of both the U.S. strategic deterrent and the extended deterrence guarantees we provide to our allies in Europe and Asia. The bill also makes clear t…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://roby.house.gov/roby-news/house-defense-bill-gets-unanimous-support-alabama-delegation-proposal-includes-1-percent	House defense bill gets unanimous support from Alabama delegation, proposal includes 1 percent military pay raise	2013-12-13	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	AL	Martha Roby	R000591	roby.house.gov	legacy	Alabama's House delegation threw its full support behind the compromise version of this year's defense authorization bill, setting the stage for the measure to go before the Senate just before its end-of-year break. All of Alabama's House delegation voted for the National Defense Authorization Act, which passed on a 350-69 vote after members of the House and Senate Armed Services Committee hammered out an agreement earlier in the month. Alabama Reps. Martha Roby, Mike Rogers and Mo Brooks all serve on the HASC. The Senate will take up the measure Wednesday in an effort to avoid failing to pass an appropriations bill for the first time in more than 50 years. The bill includes $552.1 billion for the Department of Defense base budget and $80.7 billion - about $7.8 billion less than last year -for Overseas Contingency Operations. Roby, R-Montgomery, said the House's success in passing a final bill is "critical to ensuring the nation's military is properly equipped and postured in 2014. "Providing for the common defense is our fundamental duty as the Congress," Roby said. "I'm proud to represent two distinguished military installations in Maxwell-Gunter Air Force Base in Montgomery and Fort Rucker in the Wiregrass. These installations and others like them around the world will be better able to prepare our men and women in uniform thanks to this year's NDAA." Rogers, R-Saks, said the bill is critical to national security. "The world remains a dangerous place and this bill plays a vital part in guiding our military. I am pleased to see passage of this important bill after a lot of hard work and many long hours," said Rogers, whose district includes Anniston Army Depot. Brooks, whose district includes Redstone Arsenal, said the passage of the bill gives the military a needed dose of stability in the wake of a year of across-the-board cutbacks due to sequestration. "I voted for the National Defense Authorization Act because it provides our troops with the resources they need to carry out today's missions and prepare for …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://roby.house.gov/roby-news/roby-applauds-passage-ndaa	Roby Applauds Passage of NDAA	2013-12-13	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	AL	Martha Roby	R000591	roby.house.gov	legacy	U.S. Representative Martha Roby (R) from Montgomery applauded Thursday’s House passage of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). Rep. Roby said that the bill ensures that the military will proper support in the coming year. The annual bill authorizes funding for military programs and sets policy for the Department of Defense. Representative Roby said, "Providing for the common defense is our fundamental duty as the Congress. I’m proud to represent two distinguished military installations in Maxwell-Gunter Air Force Base in Montgomery and Fort Rucker in the Wiregrass. These installations and others like them around the world will be better able to prepare our men and women in uniform thanks to this year’s NDAA." Also on Thursday, House Armed Services Committee (HASC) Chairman Buck McKeon (R) announced that Rep. Roby will be transitioning onto the House Committee on Appropriations and will no longer serve on the House Armed Services Committee. Chairman McKeon said in a written statement, “Last January, when it came time to do our subcommittee assignments, Martha was an obvious choice. As Chairman of the Oversight and Investigations subcommittee, she wasted no time becoming one of my most trusted and valued members. I entrusted her with critical assignments, including assessing how the Department of Defense responded to the Benghazi terrorist attacks and other important ongoing matters. With that said, I am very pleased to hear her talents will be put to good use on the Appropriations Committee. I know the people of Alabama appreciate her as much as I do, and I know Appropriations will find her national security prowess as valuable as I do." As the Chair of the Oversight and Investigations subcommittee, Rep. Roby held hearings on: the future of women and girls in Afghanistan and on better posturing of military assets to respond to global threats, such as the terrorist attacks in Benghazi, Libya last year. Yesterday’s NDAA authorizes funding and gives special guidance to these important areas of focus. The…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.shelby.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=f43929fd-a9a6-40cf-836e-baec729c4ee3	Shelby Ensures No Taxpayer $ Used for War on Coal in AL	2013-12-13	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	AL	Richard Shelby	S000320	www.shelby.senate.gov	legacy	Shelby to Energy Dpt: Ensure No Taxpayer Funds Used for War on Coal in AL WASHINGTON, DC, Friday, December 13, 2013 – Amid multiple media reports that the San Francisco-based Energy Foundation funded environmental groups waging a stealth “War on Coal” in Alabama, U.S. Senator Richard Shelby (R-Ala.) today wrote a letter to U.S. Secretary of Energy, Ernest Moniz, requesting an accounting of taxpayer funds provided to these same groups through federal grants. The groups bankrolled by the Energy Foundation have disrupted several Alabama Public Service Commission hearings regarding utility rate structures under the pretext of protecting consumers in Alabama. “While independent organizations are free to spend their money and advocate in whatever manner that they wish, my concern is that some of the organizations now waging a war against coal in Alabama are also receiving federal funds in the form of grants from your department,” Shelby wrote to Moniz. “Accordingly, I ask that you investigate these organizations’ use of the grant funding that they have received from your department to ensure that they are spending their federal grant dollars in accordance with the law and their intended purpose. I also further ask that you write back to me with your findings in this regard. To assist you in this undertaking, I have enclosed a letter I received from a group of my constituents more fully describing these concerns.” The text of Shelby’s letter to Moniz is below. A PDF copy is attached. *** December 13, 2013 The Honorable Ernest Moniz Secretary U.S. Department of Energy 1000 Independence Avenue SW Washington, DC 20585 Dear Mr. Secretary: I write to express my concern that federal grant funds awarded by the Department of Energy may have been misallocated to improper political advocacy by special interest groups seeking to undermine the coal industry in my home state of Alabama. Recently, it has come to light that these groups, who previously claimed to be operating at the behest of t…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://brooks.house.gov/media-center/news-releases/brooks-opposes-additional-60-billion-debt-increase	Brooks Opposes Additional $60 Billion Debt Increase	2013-12-13	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	AL	Mo Brooks	B001274	brooks.house.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C. Congressman Mo Brooks (AL-5) concurred with the views of Alabama Senators Richard Shelby 1 and Jeff Sessions 2 and voted against the Murray-Ryan spending bill that busts spending cap agreements and worsens America's projected two-year $1.5 trillion deficit by another $60 billion. Congressman Brooks stated, While parts of the Murray-Ryan spending deal are attractive, its two-year effects are financially irresponsible. America suffers from a $17 trillion debt and five years of deficits averaging more than $1 trillion/year. Interest on America's debt exceeds $250 billion/year and is projected by the CBO to reach $800 billion/year within a decade, thus jeopardizing our ability to pay for national security, Social Security, and every other federal program. Over the next two years, America's projected deficit approximates $1.5 trillion. The Murray-Ryan spending deal piles another $60 billion in debt onto an already bad deficit situation, making America's finances worse, not better. Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Mike Mullen warns that debt is our greatest national security threat. America's Comptroller General Gene Dodaro warns that America's deficit and debt path is unsustainable'. Prudence and common sense dictate that America heed these warnings and act responsibly. The Murray-Ryan spending deal does neither and is the wrong path to follow. Congressman Brooks concluded, The financially irresponsible policies that drove Detroit into bankruptcy run wild in Washington. America can and must do better. For example, the Murray-Ryan spending bill could be fully funded without borrowing a dime if Washington instead cut tens of billions/year in foreign aid, stopped giving illegal aliens more than $4 billion/year in fraudulent tax refunds,3 and stopped making as much as $14 billion/year in unemployment compensation overpayments.4 Other information about the Murray-Ryan spending deal: It unfairly singles out retired military personnel for disproportionate COLA retirement cuts that no other federal …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140228104300/http://brooks.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=25&itemid=1095	Brooks Opposes Additional $60 Billion Debt Increase	2013-12-13	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	AL	Mo Brooks	B001274	web.archive.org	legacy	Washington, D.C. –Congressman Mo Brooks (AL-5) concurred with the views of Alabama Senators Richard Shelby 1 and Jeff Sessions 2 and voted against the Murray-Ryan spending bill that busts spending cap agreements and worsens America’s projected two-year $1.5 trillion deficit by another $60 billion. Congressman Brooks stated, “While parts of the Murray-Ryan spending deal are attractive, its two-year effects are financially irresponsible. America suffers from a $17 trillion debt and five years of deficits averaging more than $1 trillion/year. Interest on America’s debt exceeds $250 billion/year and is projected by the CBO to reach $800 billion/year within a decade, thus jeopardizing our ability to pay for national security, Social Security, and every other federal program. Over the next two years, America’s projected deficit approximates $1.5 trillion. The Murray-Ryan spending deal piles another $60 billion in debt onto an already bad deficit situation, making America’s finances worse, not better. Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Mike Mullen warns that debt is our greatest national security threat. America’s Comptroller General Gene Dodaro warns that America’s deficit and debt path is ‘unsustainable’. Prudence and common sense dictate that America heed these warnings and act responsibly. The Murray-Ryan spending deal does neither and is the wrong path to follow.” Congressman Brooks concluded, “The financially irresponsible policies that drove Detroit into bankruptcy run wild in Washington. America can and must do better. For example, the Murray-Ryan spending bill could be fully funded without borrowing a dime if Washington instead cut tens of billions/year in foreign aid, stopped giving illegal aliens more than $4 billion/year in fraudulent tax refunds,3 and stopped making as much as $14 billion/year in unemployment compensation overpayments.4 ” Other information about the Murray-Ryan spending deal: It unfairly singles out retired military personnel for disproportionat…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://roby.house.gov/press-release/roby-applauds-house-passage-national-defense-authorization-act	Roby Applauds House Passage of National Defense Authorization Act	2013-12-12	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	AL	Martha Roby	R000591	roby.house.gov	legacy	The annual bill authorizes funding for military programs and sets policy for the Department of Defense. "Providing for the common defense is our fundamental duty as the Congress," Rep. Roby said. "I’m proud to represent two distinguished military installations in Maxwell-Gunter Air Force Base in Montgomery and Fort Rucker in the Wiregrass. These installations and others like them around the world will be better able to prepare our men and women in uniform thanks to this year’s NDAA." It was a bittersweet moment for the second term lawmaker from Montgomery, as House Armed Services Committee (HASC) Chairman Buck McKeon pointed out that Rep. Roby is transitioning onto the House Committee on Appropriations and will no longer serve on the House Armed Services Committee. “Last January, when it came time to do our subcommittee assignments, Martha was an obvious choice. As Chairman of the Oversight and Investigations subcommittee, she wasted no time becoming one of my most trusted and valued members. I entrusted her with critical assignments, including assessing how the Department of Defense responded to the Benghazi terrorist attacks and other important ongoing matters,” Chairman McKeon said in a statement. “With that said, I am very pleased to hear her talents will be put to good use on the Appropriations Committee. I know the people of Alabama appreciate her as much as I do, and I know Appropriations will find her national security prowess as valuable as I do." Rep. Roby also highlighted two of the NDAA contributions made by her Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations: the future of women and girls in Afghanistan and better posturing of military assets to respond to global threats, such as the terrorist attacks in Benghazi, Libya last year. The NDAA authorizes funding and gives special guidance toward these important areas of focus. The bill's passage comes after House and Senate negotiators reached an agreement this week on a final version. The House originally passed its …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://brooks.house.gov/media-center/news-releases/national-defense-authorization-act-passes-house-brooks-support	National Defense Authorization Act Passes House with Brooks' Support	2013-12-12	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	AL	Mo Brooks	B001274	brooks.house.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C. Today Congressman Mo Brooks (AL-05) voted for H.Res. 441, the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2014, which includes two provisions previously offered by Brooks. The NDAA passed by a vote of 350 to 69. The first Brooks amendment helps keep America's missile defense program secrets safe, and the second ensures the fair evaluation of competing contractors for the Evolved Expendable Launch Vehicle (EELV) program. The FY14 NDAA authorizes $552.1 billion for the Department of Defense base budget and $80.7 billion for Overseas Contingency Operations to support current law on troop pay and restore vital readiness accounts to cover underfunded combat operations, among other priorities. Congressman Brooks said, I voted for the National Defense Authorization Act because it provides our troops with the resources they need to carry out today's missions and prepare for future threats. In the wake of sequestration, now more than ever, our warfighters recognize the value of every taxpayer dollar and the need to be good stewards with our resources. I'm pleased the FY14 NDAA includes a provision I offered to protect America's $175 billion dollar missile defense program from being irresponsibly used as a bargaining tool. This Administration has proven time and again that they are willing to trade our defense secrets for diplomacy, specifically in regards to Russia. My amendment protects our critical missile defense technologies and strengthens congressional oversight of the Administration to ensure America's classified information is kept safe. My second NDAA amendment ensures there is a fair evaluation of all contractors who wish to compete for the Evolved Expendable Launch Vehicleprogram. The amendment requires that the Air Force develop and implement a plan to make certain competing contractors are treated fairly in their bidding for the EELV program. It also helps level the playing field for the United Launch Alliance in Decatur by prohibiting ULA competitors from competing with subp…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-terri-sewell-host-affordable-care-act-workshop-clarke	Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell to Host Affordable Care Act Workshop in Clarke County	2013-12-12	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	AL	Terri Sewell	S001185	sewell.house.gov	legacy	GROVE HILL, ALOn Thursday December 19th, the Office of Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell (D-AL) will host an Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplace Education and Enrollment Workshop in Grove Hill. The workshop will feature general information on the ACA and the health insurance marketplace. Attendees will also hear presentations from navigators which will include information on how to enroll for healthcare coverage. This event will allow the citizens of the 7th Congressional District to learn more about the benefits of the ACA and the various options that are available, Sewell said. The health and well-being of my constituents remains a top priority. This workshop will assist Alabamians in understanding the enrollment process and provide critical information that will help them make more informed decisions about their healthcare. This event is the fourth in a series of ACA workshops Rep. Sewell has hosted throughout the 7th Congressional district as part of an initiative to educate constituents on the ACA and the enrollment process. Who: Office of Congresswoman Terri Sewell What: Affordable Care Act Marketplace Education and Enrollment Workshop When: Thursday December 19, 2013 Time: 5:30 p.m. Location: Vivian P. Gilmore Senior Center 113 Clark St. Grove Hill, AL. 36451 Contact : Aneesa McMillan aneesa.mcmillan@mail.house.gov (205) 254-1960	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-terri-sewell-votes-favor-bipartisan-budget-agreement	Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell Votes in Favor of Bipartisan Budget Agreement	2013-12-12	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	AL	Terri Sewell	S001185	sewell.house.gov	legacy	Washington, DC Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell released the following statement after voting in favor of H.J. Res 59, the bipartisan budget bill: Today, I voted in favor of H.J. Res 59, the bipartisan budget agreement because it represents an important first step towards fiscal responsibility while mitigating the effects of sequester cuts. After more than three years of partisan brinkmanship, Democrats and Republicans have come together to pass a budget that replaces almost two-thirds of the sequester without cutting Medicare, Medicaid or Social Security benefits. This bipartisan budget compromise sends an important message to the American people that we can and should work together. While I am optimistic about this progress, I am very disappointed that this agreement fails to extend unemployment insurance for the millions of Americans who have lost their jobs through no fault of their own. Yesterday, I joined with 173 of my Democratic colleagues in requesting that Congress not adjourn for the year without extending this critical unemployment insurance. I had hoped that this request would be honored by Republican leadership but it was not. Now we leave Washington without providing 1.3 million unemployed Americans with the certainty they and their families need and deserve going into this holiday season. I believe this is a shameful neglect that I hope we will rectify in the new year. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140222044959/http://www.sessions.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=e8b7e712-a34b-7cea-97e0-e2ab54795963	Sessions Comments On Boeings Decision To Open A New Research Center In Huntsville	2013-12-12	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	AL	Jeff Sessions	S001141	web.archive.org	legacy	WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Jeff Sessions (R-AL), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, issued the following statement today after Boeing announced they will be locating a new research and technology center in Huntsville: “I am gratified to hear that Boeing is expanding its commitment to the Huntsville area by developing a new research and technology facility in the community. This will add over 300 jobs by 2015. A top flight work force with great technical skill continues to draw world class businesses. I salute the local leaders in all areas where hard work made this possible.” BACKGROUND: The Boeing research and technology facility in Huntsville will be comprised of: The Center for Simulation and Decision Analytics and The Center for Metals and Chemical Technology. In the restructuring of the company’s Research and Development, Boeing plans to hire 200 people in 2014 and 150-200 in 2015. Huntsville is 1 of 5 new centers along with the states of Washington, South Carolina, California, and Missouri.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140228104501/http://brooks.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=25&itemid=1093	National Defense Authorization Act Passes House with Brooks' Support	2013-12-12	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	AL	Mo Brooks	B001274	web.archive.org	legacy	Washington, D.C.– Today Congressman Mo Brooks (AL-05) voted for H.Res. 441, the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2014, which includes two provisions previously offered by Brooks. The NDAA passed by a vote of 350 to 69. The first Brooks amendment helps keep America’s missile defense program secrets safe, and the second ensures the fair evaluation of competing contractors for the Evolved Expendable Launch Vehicle (EELV) program. The FY14 NDAA authorizes $552.1 billion for the Department of Defense base budget and $80.7 billion for Overseas Contingency Operations to support current law on troop pay and restore vital readiness accounts to cover underfunded combat operations, among other priorities. Congressman Brooks said, “I voted for the National Defense Authorization Act because it provides our troops with the resources they need to carry out today’s missions and prepare for future threats. In the wake of sequestration, now more than ever, our warfighters recognize the value of every taxpayer dollar and the need to be good stewards with our resources.” “I’m pleased the FY14 NDAA includes a provision I offered to protect America’s $175 billion dollar missile defense program from being irresponsibly used as a bargaining tool. This Administration has proven time and again that they are willing to trade our defense secrets for diplomacy, specifically in regards to Russia. My amendment protects our critical missile defense technologies and strengthens congressional oversight of the Administration to ensure America’s classified information is kept safe.” “My second NDAA amendment ensures there is a fair evaluation of all contractors who wish to compete for the Evolved Expendable Launch Vehicleprogram. The amendment requires that the Air Force develop and implement a plan to make certain competing contractors are treated fairly in their bidding for the EELV program. It also helps level the playing field for the United Launch Alliance in Decatur by prohibiting ULA competitors fr…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://mike-rogers.house.gov/press-release/giving-back-across-east-alabama-0	Giving Back Across East Alabama	2013-12-11	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	AL	Mike Rogers	R000575	mike-rogers.house.gov	legacy	(WASHINGTON, DC)—The Christmas season is in full swing and across East Alabama the giving spirit is alive and well. Each year around the holidays, I like to take the opportunity to highlight a few of the great works going on across our area. The following examples are just a sampling of people giving of their time and gifts this year. As anyone can see from this sampling, folks across our state are always willing to help their neighbor all year long. This November, Yarbrough Elementary School students in Auburn spent their afternoon making decorations for East Alabama Medical Center’s Pediatric Unit. Students hoped to bring some joy to the patients with their cheerful decorations. In Pell City, the Leadership St. Clair Class of 2013 and the Pell City Garden Club joined forces this Spring to obtain and dedicate a Blue Star Marker for the Col. Robert L. Howard Veterans Home. The Blue Star Marker is a tribute to all those who serve in the Armed Forces. In LaFayette, Ms. Carolyn Edge Wheeler has dedicated herself to the upkeep of the town’s historic Square and City Cemetery. She and her team of volunteers have selflessly maintained LaFayette and collected donations for its upkeep. In St. Clair County, 55 Gorbel employees sent heartfelt Holiday cards to unknown soldiers and Veterans. These warm messages thank the troops for their sacrifices while wishing them Happy Holidays. And in Macon County, I had the unique opportunity to present a Congressional Gold Medal to Mr. Robert Freeman, a surviving member of the Montford Point Marines. His service and sacrifice is something we all can admire. May these selfless acts be examples of how we should live all year long. Merry Christmas to you and your families! Contact me on this or any issue at mike-rogers.house.gov, like me on Facebook at Congressman Mike D. Rogers, follow me on Twitter, Pinterest, Tumblr and Instagram at RepMikeRogersAL and subscribe to my YouTube page at MikeRogersAL03.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://mike-rogers.house.gov/press-release/rogers-no-us-ground-stations-russia	Rogers: No U.S. Ground-Stations for Russia	2013-12-11	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	AL	Mike Rogers	R000575	mike-rogers.house.gov	legacy	(WASHINGTON) – U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers (R-AL), Chairman of the House Armed Services Subcommittee on Strategic Forces, announced today legislation was included in the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2014 (Section 1602) to impose new restrictions on President Obama to limit his ability to approve locating ground-stations for Russia’s GLONASS system in the United States, as the State Department had reportedly proposed to do. GLONASS is a Russian competitor to the U.S. Air Force’s Global Positioning System (GPS) and is known to be a personal priority of Russian President Vladimir Putin. Locating Russian-controlled global satellite ground monitoring stations in the United States creates the risk that Russia could locate electronic intelligence gathering equipment in those ground stations. This Russian proposal is reportedly backed by the State Department but has drawn the concerns of the Department of Defense (DOD) and the Intelligence Community (IC). Rogers was the first Member of Congress to challenge this Russian proposal when he sent a letter in early November to Secretary Hagel, Secretary Kerry and General Clapper expressing his concerns over this issue and referencing the concerns of the DOD and IC. “It is unconscionable to me that the State Department would consider allowing Russia to locate these capabilities on our soil. Any one of my kids would have no problem seeing the risks. I am pleased I was able to ensure this legislation included in the NDAA,” Rogers said. The provision would be in effect until 2019, ensuring this protection lasts until President Obama leaves office. The House is expected to take up the NDAA this week. -###-	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://roby.house.gov/press-release/alabama-delegation-backs-bentley-proposal-lure-new-aerospace-jobs	Alabama Delegation Backs Bentley Proposal to Lure New Aerospace Jobs	2013-12-11	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	AL	Martha Roby	R000591	roby.house.gov	legacy	The Alabama Congressional delegation today issued a bipartisan statement of support for Governor Robert Bentley's proposal to Boeing Chairman, President and CEO, James McNerney, Jr., to build the aerospace giant's planned 777X aircraft in the state. Huntsville, Alabama is among the locations currently under consideration by Boeing. Today is the submission deadline for competing bids by states in the running to land the work. Joining Senators Richard Shelby (R-Ala.) and Jeff Sessions (R-Ala.) on the following statement were Congressmen Robert Aderholt (R-Haleyville), Mo Brooks (R-Huntsville), Spencer Bachus (R-Vestavia Hills), Mike Rogers (R-Saks), Martha Roby (R-Montgomery), and Terri Sewell (D-Birmingham): “Huntsville is a world leader in aerospace and aviation innovation, and Alabama’s workforce is second to none. There is simply no better place for Boeing to locate its new 777X design, manufacturing, fabrication, and assembly operations. We commend the city and state for so aggressively pursuing this economic development opportunity and stand ready to support these efforts in any way possible.” On November 22, 2013, the Alabama delegation wrote a letter to McNerney detailing the state's strong case as the prime location to build the 777X. The delegation highlighted Boeing’s significant existing footprint in North Alabama, which boasts a business-friendly environment that includes decades of high-tech aerospace expertise, low taxation and cost-of-living, a rational regulatory regime, right-to-work laws, low utility rates, and excellent infrastructure. The letter also points to world-class engineering and science facilities at Alabama’s universities statewide that are producing an abundance of highly skilled workers that would be required to fill the jobs created.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.shelby.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=31fad212-7a26-48d4-ae41-86969339636b	AL Delegation Backs Bentley Proposal to Lure New Aerospace Jobs	2013-12-11	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	AL	Richard Shelby	S000320	www.shelby.senate.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C., Tuesday, December 10, 2013 -- The Alabama Congressional delegation today issued a bipartisan statement of support for Governor Robert Bentley's proposal to Boeing Chairman, President and CEO, James McNerney, Jr., to build the aerospace giant's planned 777X aircraft in the state. Huntsville, Alabama is among the locations currently under consideration by Boeing. Today is the submission deadline for competing bids by states in the running to land the work. Joining Senators Richard Shelby (R-Ala.) and Jeff Sessions (R-Ala.) on the following statement were Congressmen Robert Aderholt (R-Haleyville), Mo Brooks (R-Huntsville), Spencer Bachus (R-Vestavia Hills), Mike Rogers (R-Saks), Martha Roby (R-Montgomery), and Terri Sewell (D-Birmingham): “Huntsville is a world leader in aerospace and aviation innovation, and Alabama’s workforce is second to none. There is simply no better place for Boeing to locate its new 777X design, manufacturing, fabrication, and assembly operations. We commend the city and state for so aggressively pursuing this economic development opportunity and stand ready to support these efforts in any way possible.” On November 22, 2013, the Alabama delegation wrote a letter to McNerney detailing the state's strong case as the prime location to build the 777X. The delegation highlighted Boeing’s significant existing footprint in North Alabama, which boasts a business-friendly environment that includes decades of high-tech aerospace expertise, low taxation and cost-of-living, a rational regulatory regime, right-to-work laws, low utility rates, and excellent infrastructure. The letter also points to world-class engineering and science facilities at Alabama’s universities statewide that are producing an abundance of highly skilled workers that would be required to fill the jobs created.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://brooks.house.gov/media-center/news-releases/brooks-bill-protect-funding-key-nasa-programs-passes-committee-bipartisan	Brooks' Bill to Protect Funding for Key NASA Programs Passes Committee with Bipartisan Support	2013-12-11	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	AL	Mo Brooks	B001274	brooks.house.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C. Today the Science Space and Technology Committee passed H.R. 3625, a bill introduced by Congressman Mo Brooks (R-AL), on a bipartisan, unanimous vote, thus clearing the way for full House consideration of the bill. H.R. 3625 prohibits the Administration from canceling the Space Launch System (SLS), Orion Crew Capsule, International Space Station, or the James Webb Space Telescope without congressional consent. In addition, H.R. 3625 frees up over a half a billion dollars in already appropriated funding for work on the Space Launch System, Orion Crew Capsule, International Space Station, and James Webb Space Telescope.Watch video of Brooks' committee remarks here.Congressman Brooks said, According to the latest report from NASA, as of October 2013, SLS, Orion, Space Station and James Webb Space Telescope contractors are required to withhold $589 million in appropriated funding to cover potential termination costs should NASA unilaterally terminate these programs. H.R. 3625 frees up that $589 million for productive work on SLS, Orion, the Space Station, and James Webb Space Telescope. Brooks added, I'm pleased the Committee chose to move forward with a full committee vote and passage of this important legislation. In a time of budget constraints, passage of this bill is one way to help ensure that vital NASA work stays on schedule. I'm also pleased the Committee agreed to the request of Rep. Donna Edwards (D-MD) to add the James Webb Space Telescope to our list of high priority protected programs. Rep. Edwards stated, I want to thank my colleague Mr. Brooks for his graciousness in working with me to come to an agreement on the language of this amendment and to clarify our intent. She continued, In fact, bipartisanship as we know takes effort, it takes a willingness to compromise, and I am really encouraged by the outcome of the collaborative discussions we have had over this last week between members and their staff as well as between the majority and the minority committee staff." Brooks concluded…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140222050013/http://www.sessions.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=e2624772-ba49-9cdf-b723-7e0f3886ec1f	Sessions Leads Bipartisan Effort To Protect Victims Of Child Abuse	2013-12-11	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	AL	Jeff Sessions	S001141	web.archive.org	legacy	WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Jeff Sessions (R-AL), Ranking Member of the Senate Budget Committee, issued the following statement today after joining Senator Chris Coons (D-DE) to introduce a bill to reauthorize the Victims of Child Abuse Act (VOCAA): “As a former prosecutor and Attorney General, I have seen firsthand the dramatic impact that Children’s Advocacy Centers have made in improving our nation’s response to these terrible crimes. Since the Victims of Child Abuse Act was introduced more than two decades ago we have seen substantial improvements in the investigation of these heinous acts and the vital care provided to child victims. Protecting our children is the highest moral duty we have. I am proud that the first Children’s Advocacy Center is in Huntsville—this amazing organization does such crucial work on behalf of our nation’s children. The Victims of Child Abuse Act plays a critical role in protecting our nation’s children and we must reauthorize it. I am grateful to Senators Coons, Hirono, and Blunt for joining in this effort.” BACKGROUND: The Victims of Child Abuse Act provides funding to local Child Advocacy Centers (CAC) across the nation, as well as the Regional Children’s Advocacy Center programs, the National Children’s Alliance, the National Children’s Advocacy Center and other programs serving child abuse victims. The Congressional Budget Office released an informal overview stating that it would not have a budgetary impact on spending or revenue. CACs take a multi-disciplinary approach to responding to child abuse by coordinating the efforts of medical, mental health, victim advocacy, law enforcement, and prosecutorial agencies. In the 1980s, former Congressman Robert “Bud” Cramer, Jr. of Alabama recognized the urgent need for improved responses to child abuse and Cramer (then a District Attorney) helped found the first CAC in Huntsville. Due to the enormous difference they’ve made, CACs have expanded to over 850 locations across the county.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140228104706/http://brooks.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=25&itemid=1092	Brooks' Bill to Protect Funding for Key NASA Programs Passes Committee with Bipartisan Support	2013-12-11	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	AL	Mo Brooks	B001274	web.archive.org	legacy	Washington, D.C.– Today the Science Space and Technology Committee passed H.R. 3625, a bill introduced by Congressman Mo Brooks (R-AL), on a bipartisan, unanimous vote, thus clearing the way for full House consideration of the bill. H.R. 3625 prohibits the Administration from canceling the Space Launch System (SLS), Orion Crew Capsule, International Space Station, or the James Webb Space Telescope without congressional consent. In addition, H.R. 3625 frees up over a half a billion dollars in already appropriated funding for work on the Space Launch System, Orion Crew Capsule, International Space Station, and James Webb Space Telescope. Watch video of Brooks’ committee remarks here. Congressman Brooks said, “According to the latest report from NASA, as of October 2013, SLS, Orion, Space Station and James Webb Space Telescope contractors are required to withhold $589 million in appropriated funding to cover potential termination costs should NASA unilaterally terminate these programs. H.R. 3625 frees up that $589 million for productive work on SLS, Orion, the Space Station, and James Webb Space Telescope.” Brooks added, “I’m pleased the Committee chose to move forward with a full committee vote and passage of this important legislation. In a time of budget constraints, passage of this bill is one way to help ensure that vital NASA work stays on schedule. I’m also pleased the Committee agreed to the request of Rep. Donna Edwards (D-MD) to add the James Webb Space Telescope to our list of high priority protected programs.” Rep. Edwards stated, “I want to thank my colleague Mr. Brooks for his graciousness in working with me to come to an agreement on the language of this amendment and to clarify our intent.” She continued, “In fact, bipartisanship as we know takes effort, it takes a willingness to compromise, and I am really encouraged by the outcome of the collaborative discussions we have had over this last week between members and their staff as well as between the majority and the minority committee s…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140307163951/http://www.shelby.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsarticles?ContentRecord_id=a9441a7f-91d7-4c5e-9bf7-e9ad9dd53cea	Yellowhammer: Congressional delegation sends message to Boeing: 'Alabama is second to none'	2013-12-11	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	AL	Richard Shelby	S000320	web.archive.org	legacy	Cliff Sims The Alabama Congressional delegation has issued a bipartisan statement of support for Gov. Robert Bentley’s proposal to Boeing Chairman, President and CEO, James McNerney, Jr., to build the aerospace giant’s planned 777X aircraft in the state. "Huntsville is a world leader in aerospace and aviation innovation, and Alabama’s workforce is second to none. There is simply no better place for Boeing to locate its new 777X design, manufacturing, fabrication, and assembly operations. We commend the city and state for so aggressively pursuing this economic development opportunity and stand ready to support these efforts in any way possible." Signing on to the statement were Senators Richard Shelby, R-Tuscaloosa, and Jeff Sessions, R-Mobile, along with Reps. Robert Aderholt, R-Haleyville, Mo Brooks, R-Huntsville, Spencer Bachus, R-Vestavia Hills, Mike Rogers, R-Saks, Martha Roby, R-Montgomery, and Terri Sewell, D-Birmingham. The statement comes just weeks after the delegation wrote a letter to Boeing’s CEO touting Alabama’s “high-tech aerospace expertise, low taxation and cost-of-living, rational regulatory regime, right-to-work laws, low utility rates, and excellent infrastructure.” Alabama submitted its proposal to Boeing on Monday, a day ahead of the submission deadline. Huntsville, Ala. is one of at least 15 locations currently being considered by Boeing.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140307164009/http://www.shelby.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsarticles?ContentRecord_id=ddc4e8ea-903c-4dae-8ba5-cd2630fb1e85	AL.com: Washington lawmakers ramp up the pressure to keep Boeing in the state	2013-12-11	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	AL	Richard Shelby	S000320	web.archive.org	legacy	In a Dec. 9 letter to Boeing leadership, the bipartisan delegation that includes Sens. Patty Murray and Maria Cantwell and 10 Representatives touts the state's history with Boeing and its plans for the future. "Washington is the aerospace capital of the world, and our delegation is committed to ensuring that the aerospace industry can continue to grow in Washington state," the lawmakers wrote. "While we recognize that the Boeing Company faces an increasingly competitive environment and must undertake a thorough process to determine where to place production, we are confident that a full analysis of options will show that Washington state stands apart from the competition." The delegation - which refers to itself as the "aerospace industry's strongest allies and loudest advocates in Congress" - said the state has proven its commitment to Boeing despite the recent contract rejection by a machinists union that has led the union to shop around production of the next-generation 777X. Alabama is one about 15 states vying for the facility. Boeing has met with Alabama officials about locating the plant in Huntsville, where is already has a sizeable engineering presence. The Herald of Everett, Wash. said the following states had publicly announcedthey would make a bid for Boeing: Alabama, Arizona, California, Georgia, Kansas, Missouri, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Texas, Utah, Washington and Wisconsin. The Washington lawmakers point to their work on behalf of Boeing in the fight to land the Air Force's KC-46A Refueling Tanker contract, the 2012 reauthorization of the Export-Import Bank and their work to land a $20 million federal workforce grant to train more than 2,600 workers in advanced aerospace assembly. "As our delegation's support illustrates, support for aerospace manufacturing in Washington is not just statewide, it is miles wide and miles deep," lawmakers wrote. Washington lawmakers aren't the only ones courting the aerospace giant. Alabama lawmakers sent their second letter yesterday tout…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://roby.house.gov/roby-news/alabama-lawmakers-continue-push-attract-boeing-huntsville	Alabama lawmakers continue push to attract Boeing to Huntsville	2013-12-10	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	AL	Martha Roby	R000591	roby.house.gov	legacy	With Alabama's offer to Boeing reportedly in the company's hands, the state's Congressional delegation is continuing its push to land the 777X production plant for Huntsville. The delegation issued a bipartisan statement of support today for Gov. Robert Bentley's proposal to Boeing Chairman, President and CEO James McNerney Jr. Details of the plan have not been released and Alabama is reportedly among 15 states vying for the $10 billion facility and its 8,500 jobs. The statement was issued by Sens. Richard Shelby and Jeff Sessions and Reps. Robert Aderholt, Mo Brooks, Spencer Bachus, Mike Rogers, Martha Roby and Terri Sewell. The lawmakers said: "Huntsville is a world leader in aerospace and aviation innovation, and Alabama's workforce is second to none. There is simply no better place for Boeing to locate its new 777X design, manufacturing, fabrication, and assembly operations. We commend the city and state for so aggressively pursuing this economic development opportunity and stand ready to support these efforts in any way possible." The statement comes on the heels of a Nov. 22 letter from the delegation which highlighted Boeing's existing footprint in North Alabama and the area's business-friendly environment. The letter also pointed to the available workforce in the Huntsville area and the available training programs. To read this article on the publication's website, click here.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://brooks.house.gov/media-center/news-releases/brooks-questions-sec-kerry-iran-nuclear-weapons-and-israels-security	Brooks Questions Sec. Kerry on Iran Nuclear Weapons and Israel's Security	2013-12-10	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	AL	Mo Brooks	B001274	brooks.house.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C. Today Congressman Mo Brooks (AL-05), at a House Foreign Affairs Committee hearing, questioned U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry concerning America's nuclear agreement with Iran and its impact on Israel's security. After citing the desire of Iran's President to wipe Israel off the page of time, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's comment that the Iran agreement is not an historic agreement; it is an historic mistake, and America's need to avoid repeating the 1930's Neville Chamberlain-like pattern of appeasement and retreat that helped trigger World War II and the deaths of tens of millions of people around the world, Congressman Brooks asked Secretary Kerry what can you say to Israel and the rest of our allies in the Middle East to convince them that America is still a reliable ally and that America will enforce agreements with Iran. Secretary Kerry answered Congressman Brooks by reminding the Committee of everything America has done in the Middle East, and elsewhere, on behalf of our allies that justifies their continued reliance on America. Congressman Brooks concluded by thanking Secretary Kerry and stating, In April 2009, President Obama said in Prague, Rules must be binding. Violations must be punished. Words must mean something.' If there's anything I can do to assist you in that regard with respect to these agreements, please let me know.For video of the Q&A, clickHERE. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-terri-sewell-joins-us-congressional-delegation-memorial	Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell Joins U.S. Congressional Delegation to Memorial Services for Former South African President Nelson Mandela	2013-12-10	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	AL	Terri Sewell	S001185	sewell.house.gov	legacy	Washington, DC Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell is attending memorial services for former South African President Nelson Mandela in Johannesburg, South Africa. Sewell was included in a U.S. delegation of 23 members of congress. Nelson Mandela inspired not just a nation, but the entire world. His legacy serves as a compelling reminder of the sacrifices made for freedom and equality for all across the globe, said Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell. As one of the millions throughout the world inspired by his sacrifices and achievements, I am honored to share with South Africa and my congressional colleagues in commemorating the life and legacy of one of history's most inspirational and courageous freedom fighters. Read Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell'sstatementon the passing of Nelson Mandela. ### The following is a list of the members of congress who have traveled to South Africa on the congressional delegation: Dels. Eleanor Holmes Norton (D.C.) and Donna Christensen (V.I.); Rep. Aaron Schock (R-Ill), Sen. Ted Cruz (TX) and Reps. Marcia Fudge, John Conyers (Mich.), Charles Rangel (N.Y.), John Lewis, Jim McDermott (Wash.), Maxine Waters (Calif.), Bobby Scott (Va.), Mel Watt (N.C.), Sheila Jackson-Lee (Tex.), Elijah Cummings (Md.), Gregory Meeks (N.Y.), Barbara Lee (Calif.), G. K. Butterfield (N.C.), Gene Green (Tex.), Gwen Moore (Wis.), Yvette Clarke (N.Y.), Karen Bass (Calif.), Joyce Beatty (Ohio) and Terri Sewell (Ala.).	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140222045025/http://www.sessions.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=dd0a2c31-9f65-2074-bc9e-4e1c2ee80e62	Sessions Issues Statement On States Boeing Proposal, Praises Huntsvilles World Renowned Workforce	2013-12-10	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	AL	Jeff Sessions	S001141	web.archive.org	legacy	WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Jeff Sessions (R-AL), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, issued the following statement today after Governor Robert Bentley submitted a proposal to Boeing to build the 777x twin-engine jet in Huntsville: “I am pleased to hear that Governor Bentley has submitted Alabama’s proposal to build the Boeing 777x jetliner in Huntsville. Huntsville has an exceptional workforce and is rightfully on Boeing’s short list of destinations. The Huntsville region is already a leader in our nation’s defense and has the capable engineers, analysts, and production workers necessary to be a world renowned center for aerospace aviation. Boeing has a solid foundation and established partnership in Huntsville and I am proud of the hard work by state and local officials to push for the 777x facility which will reportedly add 8,500 jobs and serve as an important pillar of the economy in north Alabama.”	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://roby.house.gov/roby-news/roby%E2%80%99s-move-appropriations-committee-popular-alabama-constituents	Roby’s Move to Appropriations Committee Popular with Alabama Constituents	2013-12-09	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	AL	Martha Roby	R000591	roby.house.gov	legacy	On Thursday, Representative Martha Roby's (R) from Montgomery office released quotes from officials and residents from across Alabama’s Second Congressional District reacting to the conservative congresswoman's move to the Appropriations Committee, which is charged with overseeing federal spending. Mayor Todd Strange of Montgomery said, "I was delighted to hear Rep. Roby will be joining the Appropriations Committee. Her influence and access to decision makers has been a tremendous help to Montgomery, and I know that will only increase with her new role on the Appropriations Committee.” Mayor Strange continued, "Her work was instrumental for Maxwell maintaining the 908th Airlift Wing. And this coming Monday we'll have a high-ranking and influential Member of the Armed Services Committee in town to tour Maxwell-Gunter Air Force Base, a visit Martha arranged. That just shows how well she utilizes her influence to help the community,. I'm confident she will bring her proactive attitude and initiative to the Appropriations Committee working to do what is best for Montgomery, but also what's best for America." The President of the Alabama Farmers Federation, Jimmy Parnell said, "Congressman Roby has done an outstanding job representing Alabama farmers on the Ag Committee for the past three years. Her work on the farm bill and other issues important to our members has been extremely valuable. While we regret losing such a strong advocate on the Ag Committee, we are very pleased she will be joining Congressman Robert Aderholt [R-Ala.] on the House Committee on Appropriations. I'm convinced serving on this committee will allow Congressman Roby to continue to be a great champion of Alabama farmers. Her common-sense approach to reducing deficit spending, while recognizing the important role farmers play in feeding our nation, makes her a perfect fit for this important new committee assignment.” The Chairman and CEO of AAA Cooper Transportation Inc. and Member of Friends of Fort Rucker Mack Dove said, “Representative Roby’s …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-terri-sewell-host-affordable-care-act-workshop-dallas	Congresswoman Terri Sewell to host Affordable Care Act Workshop in Dallas County	2013-12-09	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	AL	Terri Sewell	S001185	sewell.house.gov	legacy	SELMA, ALOn Wednesday December 11th, the office of Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell (D-AL) will host an Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplace Education and Enrollment Workshop in Selma. The workshop will feature general information on the ACA and the health insurance marketplace. Attendees will also hear presentations from navigators which will include information on how to enroll for healthcare coverage. This event will allow the citizens of the 7th Congressional District to learn more about the benefits of the ACA and the various options that are available, Sewell said. The health and well-being of my constituents remains a top priority. This workshop will assist Alabamians in understanding the enrollment process and provide critical information that will help them make more informed decisions about their healthcare. This event is the third in a series of ACA workshops Rep. Sewell has hosted throughout the 7th Congressional district as part of an initiative to educate constituents on the ACA and the enrollment process. Who: Office of Congresswoman Terri Sewell What:Affordable Care Act Marketplace Education and Enrollment Workshop When:Wednesday December 11, 2013 Time: 5:30 p.m. Location: Brown Chapel AME Church 410 Martin Luther King St. Selma, AL. 36703	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://roby.house.gov/press-release/what-theyre-saying-officials-local-residents-weigh-roby%E2%80%99s-move-appropriations	What They're Saying: Officials, Local Residents Weigh-in on Roby’s Move to Appropriations Committee	2013-12-06	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	AL	Martha Roby	R000591	roby.house.gov	legacy	Officials and residents from across Alabama’s Second Congressional District are reacting to U.S. Representative Martha Roby’s (R-AL) move to the Appropriations Committee – and the response is overwhelmingly positive. It was announced yesterday that Rep. Roby will serve on the House Committee on Appropriations, which is charged with overseeing federal spending. Here’s what they're saying about Rep. Roby’s new committee post: Representative Buck McKeon (R-CA), Chairman, House Armed Services Committee “Last January, when it came time to do our subcommittee assignments, Martha was an obvious choice. As Chairman of the Oversight and Investigations subcommittee, she wasted no time becoming one of my most trusted and valued members. I entrusted her with critical assignments, including assessing how the Department of Defense responded to the Benghazi terrorist attacks and other important ongoing matters. “With that said, I am very pleased to hear her talents will be put to good use on the Appropriations Committee. I know the people of Alabama appreciate her as much as I do, and I know Appropriations will find her national security prowess as valuable as I do." Representative John Kline (R-MN), Chairman, House Committee on Education and the Workforce “Martha Roby has been a valuable member of the Education and the Workforce Committee. From leading Republican efforts to promote work-life balance to helping us successfully advance legislation to restore state and local control in education, Martha has been a champion for families, businesses, and schools. I know she will continue to promote the best interests of students, workers, job creators, and taxpayers in her new role as a member of the House Appropriations Committee.” Todd Strange, Mayor of Montgomery "I was delighted to hear Rep. Roby will be joining the Appropriations Committee. Her influence and access to decision makers has been a tremendous help to Montgomery, and I know that will only increase with her new role on the Appropriations Comm…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://roby.house.gov/roby-news/defense-intelligence-heavyweight-coming-alabama-monday	Defense & Intelligence heavyweight coming to Alabama Monday	2013-12-06	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	AL	Martha Roby	R000591	roby.house.gov	legacy	Alabama’s Maxwell Air Force base will play host to one of the country’s top defense and intelligence leaders next week in House Armed Service Committee Vice Chairman Mac Thornberry. Reps. Martha Roby, R-Montgomery, and Mike Rogers, R-Sachs, recently invited Thornberry to visit Alabama. At the time, both Roby and Rogers were members of the Armed Services Committee. Roby has since then landed a spot on the coveted Appropriations Committee, which has broad oversight over government spending levels for the military as well as all other areas of the federal government. In taking that position, Roby gave up her spot on Armed Services and a couple of other committees. The visit from Thornberry, which is a big deal for Alabama’s military installations, is even more important now as Thornberry is well-positioned to take over as the chairman of the House Armed Services Committee. Current chairman Buck McKeon, R-CA, is nearing retirement and has publicly backed Thornberry as his successor. Yellowhammer caught up with Thornberry this morning by phone to hear why it was important for him to schedule a time to visit Alabama. “I’m coming, first of all, because Martha and Mike invited me, and they’re important to me. I’ve been hearing about Maxwell for years, but you can’t have a full appreciation for some things without seeing them first hand,” Thornberry said. “I want to learn how sequestration and other budget cuts are effecting Maxwell specifically. The military has been through a lot recently, and I need to see how things are going on the ground.” The Armed Services Committee writes the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) every year, which authorizes the budget authority of the Department of Defense and the national security programs of the Department of Energy. That makes Thornberry a particularly important player when it comes to Alabama’s military bases and the economic impact they have on the state. “I’m currently vice chairman on the committee, so I work in partnership with the chairman on everything the committe…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://roby.house.gov/roby-news/roby-accepts-position-house-committee-appropriations	Roby accepts position on House Committee on Appropriations	2013-12-06	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	AL	Martha Roby	R000591	roby.house.gov	legacy	Local U.S. Representative Martha Roby accepted an assignment to the House Committee on Appropriations Dec. 4. Roby said the position will be a challenging responsibility but one that provides a unique opportunity for Alabama's Second Congressional District. "I am honored to accept a position on the House Committee on Appropriations, and I appreciate the confidence my colleagues have placed in me by selecting me to serve in this capacity," Roby said. "Appropriations has oversight on the whole range of government spending. This new role provides a unique opportunity to push for the kind of conservative spending priorities that will put us on a sustainable financial path for future generations." Roby's assignment became official after it was approved by the House Republican Steering Committee on Dec. 4. Two other members of Congress Reps. Mark Amodei, of Nev.; and Chris Stewart, of Utah; also received assignments to the committee. The vacancies were created by the resignations of Reps. Jo Bonner, of Ala.; Rodney Alexander, of La.; and the death of Rep. Bill Young, of Fla. Appropriations Committee Chairman Hal Rogers, of Ky., welcomed the new members in a statement. "I am pleased to welcome representatives Amodei, Roby and Stewart to the committee and look forward to working side-by-side with them as we tackle our formidable work ahead. Member of the Appropriations Committee have tough jobs to do, and have a great responsibility to properly fund the federal government and support the well-being of the nation,: Rogers said. "These dedicated public servants have proven their commitment to the responsible shepherding of federal tax dollars, to the regular appropriations process, and to both the people of their districts and the American people as a whole." With this move, Roby will no longer serve on the House Armed Services Committee, the House Agriculture Committee, or the House Education and the Workforce Committee. Roby said, however, she remains committed to supporting the district's unique military, agric…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://roby.house.gov/roby-news/rep-roby-joins-appropriations-committee	Rep. Roby joins Appropriations Committee	2013-12-05	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	AL	Martha Roby	R000591	roby.house.gov	legacy	U.S. Rep. Martha Roby, who represents Covington County as part of Alabama’s Second Congressional District, on Wednesday accepted an assignment to the House Committee on Appropriations. “I am honored to accept a position on the House Committee on Appropriations, and I appreciate the confidence my colleagues have placed in me by selecting me to serve in this capacity,” Rep. Roby said. “Appropriations has oversight on the whole range of government spending. This new role provides a unique opportunity to push for the kind of conservative spending priorities that will put us on a sustainable financial path for future generations.” Rep. Roby’s assignment became official after it was approved by the House Republican Steering Committee. Two other Members of Congress – Rep.. Mark Amodei (R-NV) and Chris Stewart (R-UT) – also received assignments to the committee. The vacancies were created by the resignations of Reps. Jo Bonner (R-AL) and Rodney Alexander (R-LA), and the death of Rep. Bill Young (R-FL). With this move, Rep. Roby will no longer serve on the House Armed Services Committee, the House Agriculture Committee, or the House Education and the Workforce Committee. Rep. Roby said, however, that she remains committed to supporting the district’s unique military, agriculture, and educational interests. To read this article on the publication's website, click here.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://roby.house.gov/roby-news/roby-gets-seat-influential-appropriations-committee	Roby gets seat on influential Appropriations Committee	2013-12-05	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	AL	Martha Roby	R000591	roby.house.gov	legacy	Republican Rep. Martha Roby was named to the House Appropriations Committee on Wednesday, continuing Alabama’s long history of having multiple members on the influential panel that decides where federal taxpayer money is spent. “Members of the Appropriations Committee have tough jobs to do and have a great responsibility to properly fund the federal government and support the well-being of the nation,” said Rep. Hal Rogers, R-Ky., the committee’s chairman. Roby and two other GOP lawmakers who received seats on the committee are replacing two members who resigned — including Rep. Jo Bonner of Mobile — and one who died. Rep. Mark Amodei of Nevada and Rep. Chris Stewart of Utah are the other two new members. Rep. Robert Aderholt, R-Haleyville, is the other Alabama lawmaker on the committee. He chairs the Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies. On the Senate side, Sen. Richard Shelby, R-Tuscaloosa, is vice chairman of the Senate Appropriations Committee. Other recent appropriators from Alabama include former Rep. Bud Cramer of Huntsville, former Rep. Sonny Callahan of Mobile, former Rep. Jack Edwards of Mobile and former Rep. Tom Bevill of Jasper. Alabama’s history on the House and Senate committees has given the state a prominent role in writing legislation that allocates taxpayer dollars across nearly every aspect of the federal government. For years, the job let appropriators send money for special projects, or earmarks, to their home states or districts. Earmarking was banned in 2010, but the House and Senate Appropriations panels still wield considerable influence over which federal agencies see spending cuts and which see increases. Under House rules, Roby must give up her seats on the Armed Services Committee, the Education and the Workforce Committee and the Agriculture Committee in order to take the seat on the Appropriations Committee. Roby is in her third term representing Alabama’s 2nd District, which covers the southeastern part of the state and…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://roby.house.gov/roby-news/vice-chairman-armed-services-committee-tour-maxwell-air-force-base-monday	Vice chairman of Armed Services Committee to tour Maxwell Air Force Base on Monday	2013-12-05	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	AL	Martha Roby	R000591	roby.house.gov	legacy	A high-ranking member of the House Armed Services Committee will be in Montgomery on Monday to tour Maxwell Air Force Base and Gunter Annex. The military community in Montgomery hopes the visit by Rep. Mac Thornberry, R-Texas, vice chairman of the committee, will help insulate the base against future budget cuts as the Pentagon downsizes over the next several years. “We have some national treasures here in terms of capabilities, and it’s always helpful when someone that senior on Armed Services understands what goes on here at Maxwell and Gunter,” said Joe Greene, vice president for military and governmental affairs at the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce. The Armed Services Committee oversees the Defense Department and writes the annual bill detailing defense policy. Thornberry is considered a contender to chair the committee if Rep. Buck McKeon, R-Calif., retires. Thornberry was invited to Maxwell-Gunter by Reps. Martha Roby, R-Montgomery, and Mike Rogers, R-Saks. “It allows Vice Chairman Thornberry to gain first-hand knowledge of the work being done on base, meet our commanders and community leaders, and hopefully come away with a better understanding of the value Maxwell-Gunter adds to the United States military,” said Roby’s spokesman, Todd Stacy. Thornberry will spend the day touring the facilities and attending briefings from all of the commanders, Greene said. Air University, the Business and Enterprise Systems Directorate, and the Core Data Center of the Defense Information Systems Agency are among the highlights. “We want him to see what it is we do here and the impact that budget cuts could have on these operations,” Greene said. Congress failed to reach a long-term deal to cut the federal deficit, so another round of sequestration spending cuts is scheduled to begin next year. Military leaders have warned those cuts will damage military readiness. Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Mark Welsh told the Senate last month that the cuts could force the Air Force to reduce flying hours by up to 15 percent. “…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/statement-congresswoman-terri-sewell-passing-nelson-mandela	Statement from Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell on the Passing of Nelson Mandela	2013-12-05	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	AL	Terri Sewell	S001185	sewell.house.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C. Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell released the following statement on the passing of former South African President Nelson Mandela: While today we mourn the loss of one of history's most valuable freedom fighters, Nelson Mandela's legacy as a universal symbol of hope, justice and courage will inspire generations to come. As a direct benefactor of the Civil Rights Movement in my home state of Alabama, I reflect upon the tremendous contributions Nelson Mandela has made to civil rights movements across the world. The lessons which came from America's civil rights movement and those from Mandela's fight to end apartheid in South Africa are inextricably linked. Nelson Mandela's legacy is one that reflects a courageous struggle for freedom that not only changed South Africa, but the entire world. As we mourn the loss of this remarkable man, we must honor his legacy by never taking for granted the benefits that come from the freedom he and so many others fought for. May the life of Nelson Mandela serve as a constant reminder that we must never deviate from our dedication to equality in our communities, schools, and institutions. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://roby.house.gov/press-release/roby-accepts-position-house-committee-appropriations	Roby Accepts Position on House Committee on Appropriations	2013-12-04	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	AL	Martha Roby	R000591	roby.house.gov	legacy	U.S. Representative Martha Roby (R-AL) today accepted an assignment to the House Committee on Appropriations, a development Rep. Roby called a challenging responsibility, but a unique opportunity on behalf of Alabama's Second Congressional District. "I am honored to accept a position on the House Committee on Appropriations, and I appreciate the confidence my colleagues have placed in me by selecting me to serve in this capacity," Rep. Roby said. "Appropriations has oversight on the whole range of government spending. This new role provides a unique opportunity to push for the kind of conservative spending priorities that will put us on a sustainable financial path for future generations." Rep. Roby's assignment became official after it was approved by the House Republican Steering Committee on Wednesday. Two other Members of Congress - Reps. Mark Amodei (R-NV) and Chris Stewart (R-UT) - also received assignments to the committee. The vacancies were created by the resignations of Reps. Jo Bonner (R-AL) and Rodney Alexander (R-LA), and the death of Rep. Bill Young (R-FL). Appropriations Committee Chairman Hal Rogers (R-KY) welcomed the new Members today in a statement. “I am pleased to welcome Representatives Amodei, Roby, and Stewart to the Committee, and look forward to working side-by-side with them as we tackle our formidable work ahead. Members of the Appropriations Committee have tough jobs to do, and have a great responsibility to properly fund the federal government and support the well-being of the nation,” Chairman Rogers said. “These dedicated public servants have proven their commitment to the responsible shepherding of federal tax dollars, to the regular Appropriations process, and to both the people of their districts and the American people as a whole.” With this move, Rep. Roby will no longer serve on the House Armed Services Committee, the House Agriculture Committee, or the House Education and the Workforce Committee. Rep. Roby said, however, that she remains committed to supporting the district’…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://roby.house.gov/roby-news/purse-strings-passed-different-sort-republican	Purse Strings Passed to a Different Sort of Republican	2013-12-04	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	AL	Martha Roby	R000591	roby.house.gov	legacy	Three weeks ago, and thanks mainly to the seniority system, an unusual midyear rearrangement of the House Appropriations power structure produced promotions for a quartet of relatively moderate and old-school Republicans. But on Wednesday, when three vacancies were filled on the committee that decides where the money goes, the winners were a decidedly different sort: Martha Roby of Alabama, Mark Amodei of Nevada and Chris Stewart of Utah are all small-government conservatives from the legion of tea-party-inspired newcomers who have secured control over the House GOP’s ideological center of gravity. All of them voted against Speaker John A. Boehner’s wishes on both of the most politically important spending votes of this year. Each not only opposed the January legislation delivering an expansive (but not offset) package of recovery and reconstruction aid to Hurricane Sandy victims but also voted against the October bill ending the partial government shutdown and raising the debt ceiling with no anti-Obamacare strings attached. Yet all have remained in decent favor with their GOP elders, because they’ve steered clear of the boldest confrontational tactics espoused by their most tea-party-infused colleagues. At the same time, they’ve all branded themselves back home — where their districts are deep red — as so reliably conservative that they have no worries about primary challenges from the right. For all those reasons, the selection of the trio suggests the Republican leadership is looking to cultivate a different breed for the next generation of appropriators: members with unimpeachable but not melodramatic commitments to fiscal discipline, with enough insider savvy to compensate for a bit of an independent streak, and with a willingness to devote their House careers to the tough trade-offs required in thinning both domestic and defense programs. It’s quite a different model from even a few years ago, when voting to defeat both of the year’s most consequential spending bills would have been an automatic disqualifi…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://roby.house.gov/roby-news/three-republicans-join-house-appropriations-committee	Three Republicans join House Appropriations Committee	2013-12-04	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	AL	Martha Roby	R000591	roby.house.gov	legacy	Three new Republicans on Wednesday were named to the powerful House Appropriations Committee ahead of work on a possible omnibus spending package for fiscal 2014. Reps. Mark Amodei (Nev.), Martha Roby (Ala), and Chris Stewart (Utah) were given their new assignments by the Republican steering committee. The appointments bring to 29 the number of Republicans serving under Chairman Hal Rogers (R-Ky.), and the move could increase his say over how a final budget deal for 2014 turns out. ADVERTISEMENT Appropriators are generally united in wanting sequester cuts shifted to entitlement cuts and could oppose any budget deal that leaves all the sequester cuts in place. “These dedicated public servants have proven their commitment to the responsible shepherding of federal tax dollars, to the regular Appropriations process, and to both the people of their districts and the American people as a whole," Rogers said in a statement. The three vacancies were caused by the sudden death of Rep. Bill Young (R-Fla.) and retirements of Rep. Rodney Alexander (R-La.) and Jo Bonner (R-Ala.). To read this article on the publication's website, click here.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://brooks.house.gov/media-center/news-releases/brooks-house-floor-speech-emphasizes-healthcaregov-cyber-security-risks	Brooks House Floor Speech Emphasizes HealthCare.Gov Cyber-Security Risks	2013-12-04	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	AL	Mo Brooks	B001274	brooks.house.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C. Standing before the U.S. House this morning, in an effort to protect hardworking Americans, who may unknowingly subject themselves toidentity theft and cyber-attack risks, Congressman Mo Brooks (AL-05) emphasized Science, Space, and Technology (SST) Committee hearing testimony that warns the public of the ObamaCare website, HealthCare.Gov, cyber-security risks. During his remarks, Congressman Brooks emphasized three written statements by the committee's bipartisan expert panel. First, that there are clear indicators that even basic security was not built into the HealthCare.Gov website. Second, that the vast amount of [HealthCare.Gov computer program] code also means applying industry standards security practices is a task that can have no real chance of success. And, third, that HealthCare.Gov creates massive opportunity for fraud, scams, deceptive trade practices, identity theft, and more. Brooks added that the reply from the bipartisan panel of experts, when asked whether they could recommend the public use HealthCare.Gov given its cyber security weaknesses, was a stunning and unanimous no, do not use HealthCare.Gov because the security risks associated with the website are simply too great. Brooks warned that, HealthCare.Gov, is the mother load for identity theft, internet fraud and other criminal activity, and that, based on their expert advice, I encourage all Americans to avoid HealthCare.Gov, the ObamaCare website, in any way, shape or form until its cyber-security risks are fixed. Brooks concluded by noting that, If these experts are right, and if you are an American citizen who obeys ObamaCare dictates and you suffer from identify theft or other financial losses, the White House response is essentially, Tough luck.You are on your own.' Video of Congressman Brooks' remarks is available HERE. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://brooks.house.gov/media-center/news-releases/brooks-house-floor-speech-emphasizes-healthcaregov-cyber-security-risks-0	Brooks House Floor Speech Emphasizes HealthCare.Gov Cyber-Security Risks	2013-12-04	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	AL	Mo Brooks	B001274	brooks.house.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C. Standing before the U.S. House this morning, in an effort to protect hardworking Americans, who may unknowingly subject themselves toidentity theft and cyber-attack risks, Congressman Mo Brooks (AL-05) emphasized Science, Space, and Technology (SST) Committee hearing testimony that warns the public of the ObamaCare website, HealthCare.Gov, cyber-security risks. During his remarks, Congressman Brooks emphasized three written statements by the committee's bipartisan expert panel. First, that there are clear indicators that even basic security was not built into the HealthCare.Gov website. Second, that the vast amount of [HealthCare.Gov computer program] code also means applying industry standards security practices is a task that can have no real chance of success. And, third, that HealthCare.Gov creates massive opportunity for fraud, scams, deceptive trade practices, identity theft, and more. Brooks added that the reply from the bipartisan panel of experts, when asked whether they could recommend the public use HealthCare.Gov given its cyber security weaknesses, was a stunning and unanimous no, do not use HealthCare.Gov because the security risks associated with the website are simply too great. Brooks warned that, HealthCare.Gov, is the mother load for identity theft, internet fraud and other criminal activity, and that, based on their expert advice, I encourage all Americans to avoid HealthCare.Gov, the ObamaCare website, in any way, shape or form until its cyber-security risks are fixed. Brooks concluded by noting that, If these experts are right, and if you are an American citizen who obeys ObamaCare dictates and you suffer from identify theft or other financial losses, the White House response is essentially, Tough luck.You are on your own.' Video of Congressman Brooks' remarks is available HERE. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140222050719/http://www.sessions.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=bf6769a5-d606-3704-2fcd-ae1a3787888b	Sessions: Presidents Rhetoric On Wages Undermined By Immigration Plan That Will Hammer American Workers	2013-12-04	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	AL	Jeff Sessions	S001141	web.archive.org	legacy	WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Jeff Sessions (R-AL), Ranking Member of the Senate Budget Committee, issued the following statement today regarding President Obama’s speech on the decline in economic conditions for U.S. workers: “It is shocking for the President to give a speech about income disparity and falling wages while pushing an immigration plan that will hammer American workers and widen the disparity. The Congressional Budget Office confirms the White House-backed plan would reduce wages, reduce per capita GNP, and increase unemployment. The President says people are worried ‘the system is rigged’ and yet it is the President who has teamed up with a small cadre of CEOs to double the flow of immigrant workers when these exact same companies are laying off American workers in droves. Wages for American workers are lower today than they were more than a decade ago—and take-home pay has fallen each year since the President came into office. A recent study demonstrated that all net job growth since 2000 has gone to immigrant workers while the number of U.S.-born Americans working has declined by 1.3 million. The President’s policies also threaten college students who are about to enter a difficult economy. His plan would more than double the number of temporary foreign workers for wealthy tech companies. As Professor Ron Hira, a leading expert on H-1B visas, has noted, the visas are being used for ‘facilitating offshoring and providing employers with cheap, temporary labor—while reducing job opportunities for American high-tech workers in the process.’ Harvard professor Dr. George Borjas found that high levels of immigration between 1980 and 2000 caused the wages of lower-skilled American workers to drop nearly 8 percent. He also found current immigration levels have resulted in a $402 billion annual wage loss for workers but a $437 billion increase in profits for business owners. It is time to have an open and honest conversation about our shrinking middle class and the consequences of our immigration poli…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140923132223/http://brooks.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=25&itemid=1089	Brooks House Floor Speech Emphasizes HealthCare.Gov Cyber-Security Risks	2013-12-04	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	AL	Mo Brooks	B001274	web.archive.org	legacy	Washington, D.C.– Standing before the U.S. House this morning, in an effort to protect hardworking Americans, who may unknowingly subject themselves to identity theft and cyber-attack risks, Congressman Mo Brooks (AL-05) emphasized Science, Space, and Technology (SST) Committee hearing testimony that warns the public of the ObamaCare website, HealthCare.Gov, cyber-security risks. During his remarks, Congressman Brooks emphasized three written statements by the committee’s bipartisan expert panel. First, that “there are clear indicators that even basic security was not built into the HealthCare.Gov website.” Second, that “the vast amount of [HealthCare.Gov computer program] code also means applying industry standards security practices is a task that can have no real chance of success.” And, third, that HealthCare.Gov “creates massive opportunity for fraud, scams, deceptive trade practices, identity theft, and more.” Brooks added that the reply from the bipartisan panel of experts, when asked whether they could recommend the public use HealthCare.Gov given its cyber security weaknesses, “was a stunning and unanimous no, do not use HealthCare.Gov because the security risks associated with the website are simply too great.” Brooks warned that, “HealthCare.Gov, is the mother load for identity theft, internet fraud and other criminal activity,” and that, “based on their expert advice, I … encourage all Americans to avoid HealthCare.Gov, the ObamaCare website, in any way, shape or form until its cyber-security risks are fixed.” Brooks concluded by noting that, “If these experts are right, and if you are an American citizen who obeys ObamaCare dictates and you suffer from identify theft or other financial losses, the White House response is essentially, ‘Tough luck. You are on your own.’” Video of Congressman Brooks’ remarks is available HERE. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://brooks.house.gov/media-center/news-releases/brooks-bill-protects-funding-key-nasa-programs	Brooks' Bill Protects Funding for Key NASA Programs	2013-12-03	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	AL	Mo Brooks	B001274	brooks.house.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C. Congressman Mo Brooks (AL-05) has introduced H.R. 3625, a bill that frees up half a billion dollars in funding for NASA's Space Launch System (SLS), Orion Crew Capsule, and the International Space Station. Congressman Brooks stated, Congress has designated the Space Launch System, Orion Crew Capsule, and International Space Station as priority investments that should be properly funded. H.R. 3625 reflects congressional priorities. Brooks continued, H.R. 3625 is multi-faceted. It bars NASA from unilaterally canceling SLS, Orion, or the Space Station without express congressional consent. As of October 2013, NASA forces SLS, Orion, and Space Station contractors to withhold and not use $507 million in appropriated funding to cover potential termination costs should NASA unilaterally terminate these programs. H.R. 3625 frees up that $507 million for productive work on SLS, Orion and the Space Station. Brooks added, Withholding scarce funds for termination liability slows development and hence increases the total cost of a project. This in turn makes it even more likely that a program could be terminated. According to NASA reports to Congress, as of October 2013, $192 million from SLS, $226 million from Orion, and $89 million from the Space Station are being held to cover termination liability costs that would otherwise be used to timely complete these scientific efforts. Brooks concluded, The issue of limiting funding to account for potential termination liability costs contributed to the Obama Administration's decision to cancel the Constellation program. Regardless of whether Constellation should, or should not, have been cancelled, I believe it unwise to subject America's Space Launch System, Orion Crew Capsule, and International Space Station to similar risks. Click here to read a copy of H.R. 3625. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-terri-sewell-appointed-serve-house-democratic-steering-and	Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell Appointed to Serve on the House Democratic Steering and Policy Committee	2013-12-03	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	AL	Terri Sewell	S001185	sewell.house.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C. Today, Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell was appointed by U.S. House Democratic leadership to join the House Democratic Steering and Policy Committee. As a member of this Committee, Congresswoman Sewell will play an integral role in advancing the Democratic agenda that includes paycheck fairness, job creation, middle class growth and deficit reduction. The House Democratic Steering and Policy Committee is responsible for developing an agenda to address our nation's most critical issues. In addition, this committee is responsible for recommending other Democrats in Congress for various appointments and committee assignments. I am honored to be appointed by Democratic Leadership to join the House Democratic Steering and Policy Committee, said Rep. Sewell. The issues of job creation, economic development, and deficit reduction are critically important to my constituents in Alabama's 7th Congressional District. I proudly accept this opportunity to further an agenda dedicated to solving the economic and social issues most important to the well-being of my constituents and the American people. I look forward to working with our outstanding Democratic leadership and my colleagues on the Steering and Policy Committee to advance these Democratic priorities. Congresswoman Sewell adds this new appointment to her other leadership positions in the 113th Congress. Sewell was also selected by U.S. House Democratic Whip Steny Hoyer to serve as one of the ten Chief Deputy Whips for the Democratic Party. Through this position, she is responsible for helping the Democratic Party mobilize the party vote on important legislation and serving as a liaison between the Members and the Caucus helping to build strong support for the Democratic agenda. Congresswoman Sewell also sits on the House Financial Services Committee and House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-terri-sewell-host-5th-project-ready-workshop-trenholm	Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell to host 5th Project R.E.A.D.Y Workshop At Trenholm State Technical College	2013-12-03	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	AL	Terri Sewell	S001185	sewell.house.gov	legacy	MONTGOMERY, AL Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell (D-AL) will host the 5th Project R.E.A.D.Y seminar on Friday December 6, 2013 at Trenholm State Technical College. The event will feature workshops on career development and workforce options. The workshops will serve as a tool to prepare attendees for career readiness and job training. Job creation remains my top priority and I hope my constituents will continue to take full advantage of a Project R.E.A.D.Y workshop in a town near them, Rep. Sewell said. The event is a part of a series of workshops that Sewell has hosted throughout the 7th Congressional district as part of her ongoing workforce training initiative. Who: Congresswoman Terri Sewell What: Project R.E.A.D.Y Workforce Development Seminar When: Friday December 6, 2013 Time: 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Location: Trenholm State Technical College-Trenholm Campus Student Center-Building D 1225 Air Base Blvd. Montgomery, AL. 36108 About Project READY Project R.E.A.D.Y (Realizing Every one's Ability to Develop Yourself), is a series of workforce development training seminars. The goal of Project R.E.A.D.Y is to facilitate employment in Alabama's 7th Congressional District by promoting public-private partnerships, job readiness, skills training and career development. Contact: Aneesa McMillan 205.254.1960 Aneesa.McMillan@mail.house.gov	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/statement-congresswoman-terri-sewell-selection-councilor-johnathan	Statement from Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell on the Selection of Councilor Johnathan Austin as Birmingham City Council President	2013-12-03	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	AL	Terri Sewell	S001185	sewell.house.gov	legacy	Today, Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell released the following statement on the selection of Councilor Johnathan Austin as Birmingham's new City Council President: I would like to extend a heartfelt congratulation to Birmingham City Councilor Johnathan Austin on being elected as the Council's new President. Council President Austin is a remarkable and dynamic public servant who has a strong record of working to enhance the wellbeing of Birmingham's residents. Through his work to expand Birmingham's technological infrastructure, protect the local environment, increase the city's bike lanes, and improve public health, Council President Austin has given our city much to be proud of. I know the City of Birmingham will be well-served under his leadership. ### Contact: Hillary Beard 202.225.2665 Hillary.Beard@mail.house.gov	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20131205161112/http://sewell.house.gov/press-release/congresswoman-terri-sewell-appointed-serve-house-democratic-steering-and-policy	Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell Appointed to Serve on the House Democratic Steering and Policy Committee	2013-12-03	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	AL	Terri Sewell	S001185	web.archive.org	legacy	Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell was appointed by U.S. House Democratic leadership to join the House Democratic Steering and Policy Committee. As a member of this Committee, Congresswoman Sewell will play an integral role in advancing the Democratic agenda that includes paycheck fairness, job creation, middle class growth and deficit reduction. The House Democratic Steering and Policy Committee is responsible for developing an agenda to address our nation’s most critical issues. In addition, this committee is responsible for recommending other Democrats in Congress for various appointments and committee assignments. “I am honored to be appointed by Democratic Leadership to join the House Democratic Steering and Policy Committee,” said Rep. Sewell. “The issues of job creation, economic development, and deficit reduction are critically important to my constituents in Alabama’s 7th Congressional District. I proudly accept this opportunity to further an agenda dedicated to solving the economic and social issues most important to the well-being of my constituents and the American people. I look forward to working with our outstanding Democratic leadership and my colleagues on the Steering and Policy Committee to advance these Democratic priorities.” Congresswoman Sewell adds this new appointment to her other leadership positions in the 113th Congress. Sewell was also selected by U.S. House Democratic Whip Steny Hoyer to serve as one of the ten Chief Deputy Whips for the Democratic Party. Through this position, she is responsible for helping the Democratic Party mobilize the party vote on important legislation and serving as a liaison between the Members and the Caucus helping to build strong support for the Democratic agenda. Congresswoman Sewell also sits on the House Financial Services Committee and House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140923195924/http://brooks.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=25&itemid=1088	Brooks' Bill Protects Funding for Key NASA Programs	2013-12-03	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	AL	Mo Brooks	B001274	web.archive.org	legacy	Washington, D.C.– Congressman Mo Brooks (AL-05) has introduced H.R. 3625, a bill that frees up half a billion dollars in funding for NASA’s Space Launch System (SLS), Orion Crew Capsule, and the International Space Station. Congressman Brooks stated, “Congress has designated the Space Launch System, Orion Crew Capsule, and International Space Station as priority investments that should be properly funded. H.R. 3625 reflects congressional priorities.” Brooks continued, “H.R. 3625 is multi-faceted. It bars NASA from unilaterally canceling SLS, Orion, or the Space Station without express congressional consent. As of October 2013, NASA forces SLS, Orion, and Space Station contractors to withhold and not use $507 million in appropriated funding to cover potential termination costs should NASA unilaterally terminate these programs. H.R. 3625 frees up that $507 million for productive work on SLS, Orion and the Space Station.” Brooks added, “Withholding scarce funds for termination liability slows development and hence increases the total cost of a project. This in turn makes it even more likely that a program could be terminated. According to NASA reports to Congress, as of October 2013, $192 million from SLS, $226 million from Orion, and $89 million from the Space Station are being held to cover termination liability costs that would otherwise be used to timely complete these scientific efforts.” Brooks concluded, “The issue of limiting funding to account for potential termination liability costs contributed to the Obama Administration's decision to cancel the Constellation program. Regardless of whether Constellation should, or should not, have been cancelled, I believe it unwise to subject America’s Space Launch System, Orion Crew Capsule, and International Space Station to similar risks.” Click here to read a copy of H.R. 3625. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://roby.house.gov/roby-news/rep-martha-roby-appears-headed-seat-powerful-appropriations-committee	Rep. Martha Roby appears headed for seat on powerful Appropriations Committee	2013-11-25	2013	2013-11	Republican	House	AL	Martha Roby	R000591	roby.house.gov	legacy	U.S. Rep. Martha Roby, R-Montgomery, appears headed for a slot on the influential House Appropriations Committee. The appointment would be a plum assignment for the second-term congresswoman. “I am being encouraged by my colleagues to accept an assignment on House Appropriations Committee. This is so important to the Second District because this is the committee that holds the purse strings and controls federal spending, including funding for all military programs," Roby wrote in an e-mail to supporters obtained by Al.com. “A spot on this committee will allow me a more direct role in fighting wasteful spending and pushing for the kind of conservative spending priorities that will put us on a sustainable financial path for future generations. There is no better place to address our nation's spending addiction than on the Appropriations Committee,” Roby wrote. She said the move would likely mean giving up seats on the Armed Services Committee, the Education and the Workforce Committee, and the Agriculture Committee. “That said, the Appropriations Committee has jurisdiction over each of those areas and more. I will remain a conferee on the Farm Bill as we work out the differences between the House and Senate Farm Bills. I will obviously also continue to fight for Maxwell-Gunter Air Force Base and Fort Rucker in this new role.” There are three GOP vacancies on the committee. To read this article on the publication's website, click here.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://roby.house.gov/roby-news/roby-expected-land-spot-powerful-house-appropriations-committee	Roby expected to land spot on powerful House Appropriations Committee	2013-11-25	2013	2013-11	Republican	House	AL	Martha Roby	R000591	roby.house.gov	legacy	Rep. Martha Roby, R-Montgomery, has been offered a coveted spot on the powerful House Appropriations Committee, the panel that determines how the federal government will spend the people’s money. Yellowhammer originally broke the news on social media over the weekend, but Rep. Roby has since confirmed what sources close to House leadership told us late last week. “I am being encouraged by my colleagues to accept an assignment on the House Appropriations Committee,” Roby said in the email to Yellowhammer. “This is so important to the Second District because this is the committee that holds the purse strings and controls federal spending, including funding for all military programs.” Roby will join fellow Alabamian Rep. Robert Aderholt, R-Haleyville, on the committee, but it won’t come without some tradeoffs. Roby told a small group of her close supporters in the second district over the weekend that she would likely have to give up her seats on the Armed Services Committee, the Education and Workforce Committee, and the Agriculture Committee. She believes, however, that the move will be worth it because the Appropriations Committee has jurisdiction over those areas, as well as many others. “The Appropriations Committee has oversight on the whole range of government activities,” Roby said. “It provides a unique opportunity to fight wasteful spending, hold the line on the budget, and push for the kind of conservative spending priorities that will put us on a sustainable financial path for future generations. Congress is working in a budget-constrained environment for the foreseeable future, and we must make sure every dollar spent is spent wisely. There is no better place to influence that process and to advocate for the people of my district than on the Appropriations Committee. It is an honor to be considered for such a prestigious position, which generally is available only to more senior members.” Roby’s appointment to the committee comes at a time when both sides of the aisle in D.C. are hoping to return to so-…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140222045032/http://www.sessions.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=90abec74-94e2-f048-383c-0662f06627d5	Sessions Joins Bipartisan Letter To Commerce Department To Ensure Fair Trade For Alabama, U.S. Steel Workers	2013-11-25	2013	2013-11	Republican	House	AL	Jeff Sessions	S001141	web.archive.org	legacy	WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Jeff Sessions (R-AL) signed a bipartisan letter sent to the Department of Commerce regarding antidumping (AD) and countervailing duty (CVD) orders on oil country tubular goods (OCTG) from China: A full text of the letter follows. To view it as a PDF, please click here: November 25, 2013 “The Honorable Penny S. Pritzker Secretary of Commerce U.S. Department of Commerce 1401 Constitution Avenue, N.W. Washington, D.C. 20230 Dear Secretary Pritzker: We are writing to follow up on an issue that continues to be of vital importance to our constituents – namely, the need for continued strong enforcement of the existing antidumping (“AD”) and countervailing duty (“CVD”) orders on oil country tubular goods (“OCTG”) from China. The orders have provided much needed relief to our industry and workers, who were subjected to massive injury from the influx of dumped and subsidized OCTG from China in 2008 and 2009. We understand that within a few weeks the Department of Commerce intends to issue the final results of a scope inquiry to determine whether minor finishing (such as heat treating) of OCTG from China in third countries is enough to change its "country of origin" for purposes of the AD/CVD orders and to exempt it from trade relief. In May, the Department preliminarily determined that such minor finishing is not enough to change the country of origin of Chinese OCTG. We applaud that ruling and greatly appreciate the hard work and extensive fact-finding and analysis that went into it. While the preliminary scope determination was focused specifically on the finishing of Chinese OCTG in Indonesia, it nevertheless is a critical determination that confirms the original intent of the orders and has broad applicability to all potential third country processing of Chinese-origin OCTG. As it prepares its final results, we urge the Department to keep in mind the critical importance of this issue for our workers and the U.S. industry as a whole. The U.S. OCTG industry believes that any …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140222050731/http://www.sessions.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=90be56b7-f985-bcc2-dcb7-49c9a7841a86	Sessions Comments Ahead Of Presidents Immigration Address	2013-11-25	2013	2013-11	Republican	House	AL	Jeff Sessions	S001141	web.archive.org	legacy	WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Jeff Sessions (R-AL), Ranking Member of the Senate Budget Committee, issued the following statement today as President Obama was set to deliver remarks on immigration: “House leaders must lay out clearly to the American people the President’s dismal record on immigration. During his time in office, the President has systematically dismantled interior enforcement, handcuffing immigration officers and bypassing Congress. These facts—drawn from the testimony of immigration officers themselves—should be clearly documented before the whole nation. No agreement should be entered into while such lawlessness continues. Secondly, the President must be asked—by media and lawmakers alike—how he can possibly justify a plan that will double the flow of immigrant workers at a time when 91.5 million Americans are outside the labor force? Indeed, as the President makes his immigration remarks he is preparing to hold a fundraiser with Silicon Valley executives, a group clamoring for more guest workers at a time when nearly half of recent college grads are underemployed. Wages are flat and falling for U.S. workers—the clearest evidence that there is not a labor shortage, but a jobs shortage. America is not an oligarchy. Congressional leaders must forcefully reject the notion, evidently accepted by the President, that a small cadre of CEOs can tailor the nation’s entire immigration policy to suit their narrow interests. A Republic must answer to the people.”	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://mike-rogers.house.gov/press-release/rogers-reacts-pushback-2015-obamacare-enrollment	Rogers Reacts to Pushback of 2015 Obamacare Enrollment	2013-11-22	2013	2013-11	Republican	House	AL	Mike Rogers	R000575	mike-rogers.house.gov	legacy	(WASHINGTON, DC)—Congressman Mike Rogers is objecting to an expected announcement today by the Administration that would delay the open enrollment date of Obamacare for 2015 by a month. Rogers pointed out it just happens the delay will push the current 2014 deadline from October 15 to November 15, just after the midterm elections. “President Obama continues to play shameful political games with his failing healthcare law. This most recent move could keep the American public from fully seeing the financial impact of Obamacare on their lives at an important time. Rogers said an American Enterprise Institute (AEI) study estimates that up to 100 million Americans employed by small businesses could lose their coverage during open enrollment in 2014 as a result of Obamacare and the loss of the special exemption for businesses given by the Administration for this year. “By delaying the next enrollment date, I believe President Obama is intentionally trying to deny Americans adequate information about their health insurance to keep his flawed law in place. As we have seen already this year, Obamacare is a monumental disaster and should be repealed before it imposes even more damage to American citizens and our nation's economy. “We have seen this type of alarming behavior by the Obama Administration before. The failure of Administration officials to come clean with the American people in the aftermath of the murder of the American Ambassador and staff by terrorists in Benghazi, Libya is one example. Another is the targeting of Tea Party groups by IRS officials. Both demonstrate the willingness of the Administration to use their powers to withhold information from the American people for what appears to be for political purposes. The American people and our nation deserve much better," Rogers said. Rogers serves as Chairman of the Strategic Forces subcommittee on the Armed Services Committee and is a senior member of the Homeland Security and Agriculture committees. -###-	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://roby.house.gov/roby-news/alabama-delegation-lays-out-case-boeing-locate-facility-alabama	Alabama delegation lays out case for Boeing to locate facility in Alabama	2013-11-22	2013	2013-11	Republican	House	AL	Martha Roby	R000591	roby.house.gov	legacy	On Friday, the Alabama congressional delegation sent a letter to Boeing Chairman, President and CEO, James McNerney, Jr., touting Alabama as a potential location for its 777X aircraft manufacturing facility. Huntsville is among the finalists for the coveted facility, along with Charleston, S.C., Long Beach, Calif., Philadelphia and St. Louis. The letter points out Boeing’s existing footprint in north Alabama and also touts the state’s “high-tech aerospace expertise, low taxation and cost-of-living, rational regulatory regime, right-to-work laws, low utility rates, and excellent infrastructure.” All of Alabama’s congressional delegation signed the letter, including Sens. Richard Shelby, R-Tuscaloosa, and Jeff Sessions, R-Mobile, along with Reps. Robert Aderholt, R-Haleyville, Spencer Bachus, R-Vestavia Hills, Mo Brooks, R-Huntsville, Mike Rogers, R-Saks, Martha Roby, R-Montgomery and Terri Sewell, D-Birmingham. To read this article on the publication's website, click here.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://roby.house.gov/roby-news/alabamas-congressional-delegation-sends-clear-message-we-want-boeing	Alabama's Congressional delegation sends a clear message: We want Boeing	2013-11-22	2013	2013-11	Republican	House	AL	Martha Roby	R000591	roby.house.gov	legacy	Alabama's Congressional delegation is joining in the state's push to land a new Boeing production facility in Huntsville. In a Nov. 22 letter sent to Boeing CEO W. James McNerney Jr., Sens. Jeff Sessions and Richard Shelby and Reps. Robert Aderholt, Mo Brooks, Spencer Bachus, Mike Rogers, Martha Roby and Terri Sewell made the case for North Alabama as "the best choice" for a new production plant for Boeing's next-generation 777X. "Given that Boeing already has such a significant presence in Huntsville, including performing much of its 787 and future 777X engineering work there, you are already familiar with the large, skilled, and reliable workforce that the area provides. All of Alabama's universities offer top-notch engineering and science programs with state-of-the-art facilities that can provide the skilled personnel that your expanded presence in Huntsville would require. Locally, the University of Alabama in Huntsville offers one of the nation's best aerospace engineering programs, while the Alabama Aviation Center, in partnership with the state's two-year college system, is also committed to providing large numbers of well-educated and trained aerospace workers," lawmakers wrote. "We also hope you will remember that North Alabama's hospitable business environment includes decades of high-tech aerospace expertise, low taxation and cost-of-living, a rational regulatory regime, right-to-work laws, low utility rates, and excellent infrastructure." State and city officials met with Boeing Tuesday after reports surfaced Huntsville was one of several locations in the running to potentially produce the 777X. Boeing is considering the move after the International Association of Machinists in Washington state rejected an eight-year labor contract extension that would have kept production there. Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle said the plant could bring as many as 4,800 high-paying jobs to the area and Boeing already owns about 300 acres between the two runways at the Huntsville International Airport. That site is larg…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.shelby.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=008c1cba-3165-4a77-9cc4-e06b26f9f27b	Shelby Makes Case for More AL Aerospace Jobs	2013-11-22	2013	2013-11	Republican	House	AL	Richard Shelby	S000320	www.shelby.senate.gov	legacy	AL Delegation Makes Powerful Case for More Aerospace Jobs “It has recently come to our attention that Boeing is considering locations for its planned 777X fuselage manufacturing, composite wing fabrication, and final assembly operations. We are pleased to hear reports that Huntsville is in contention as a location for this expansion. Thus, we write to tell you why North Alabama is the best choice.” WASHINGTON, D.C., Friday, November 22, 2013 – Amid news reports that aerospace giant Boeing is considering Huntsville, Alabama, among sites to build its planned 777X aircraft, U.S. Senator Richard Shelby (R-Ala.) today led the Alabama Congressional delegation in sending a letter to Boeing Chairman, President and CEO, James McNerney, Jr., underscoring the state’s very strong and unique case as the prime location to do the work. The delegation highlighted Boeing’s significant existing footprint in North Alabama, which boasts a business-friendly environment that includes decades of high-tech aerospace expertise, low taxation and cost-of-living, a rational regulatory regime, right-to-work laws, low utility rates, and excellent infrastructure. The letter also points to world-class engineering and science facilities at Alabama’s universities statewide that are producing an abundance of highly skilled workers that would be required to fill the jobs created. Signing the letter with along with Senator Shelby were Senator Jeff Sessions (R-Ala.) and Congressmen Robert Aderholt (R-Haleyville), Mo Brooks (R-Huntsville), Spencer Bachus (R-Vestavia Hills), Mike Rogers (R-Saks), Martha Roby (R-Montgomery), and Terri Sewell (D-Birmingham). The full text of the letter is below. *** November 22, 2013 W. James McNerney, Jr. Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer The Boeing Company 100 North Riverside Chicago, IL 60606 Dear Jim, It has recently come to our attention that Boeing is considering locations for its planned 777X fuselage manufacturing, composite wing fabrication, and final as…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://brooks.house.gov/media-center/news-releases/brooks-president-violates-constitutions-separation-powers-clause	Brooks: President Violates Constitution's Separation of Powers Clause	2013-11-22	2013	2013-11	Republican	House	AL	Mo Brooks	B001274	brooks.house.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C. - President Obama has repeatedly rewritten the Affordable Care Act by "executive decree" without constitutional authority to do so. In response, CongressmanMo Brooks (AL-05) has co-signed House Resolution 425 expressing congressional disapproval of President Obama's violation of Article II, Section 3 of the Constitution to take Care that the Laws be faithfully executed (the "Take Care Clause"). Brooks stated, "The notion that a president can unilaterally alter duly-enacted legislation by executive fiat is unconscionable and violates more than two centuries of established constitutional law. America's Founding Fathers established a system of separation of powers and checks and balances because they feared dictatorial power resting in the hands of one or few persons. History has proven those fears justified, as time after time around the world, power resting in the hands of one or few has been abused, thus causing loss of civil liberties among the general populace, civil strife,and war." Brooks continued, "President Obama's amending federal statutes by executive fiat is a direct attack on the rule of law and a Constitution that has served America so well for so long. In short, President Obama's executive power overreach is unparalleled in American history and shows a blatant disregard for basic constitutional principles." Brooks added, "The Constitution empowersCongress, the American people's most direct representatives, to enact laws (subject to presidential signature or veto). The President has a dutyunder the Constitution's "Take Care Clause" to obey and enforce laws properly enacted. Given President Obama's power overreach, it is Congress's duty to defend the Constitution." Brooks concluded, "For more than two centuries, Senate filibuster powers forced presidents to nominate centrist, unbiased judges to interpret laws and the Constitution. Yesterday, Senator Harry Reid and the Democrat majority destroyed minority rights, thus empowering presidents to nominate extremist judges who can, because o…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140307164034/http://www.shelby.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsarticles?ContentRecord_id=52d440c8-4fbc-41c7-8697-6df98ceb926d	AL.com: Alabama's Congressional delegation sends a clear message: We want Boeing	2013-11-22	2013	2013-11	Republican	House	AL	Richard Shelby	S000320	web.archive.org	legacy	Leada Gore \| lgore@al.com Alabama's Congressional delegation is joining in the state's push to land a new Boeing production facility in Huntsville. In a Nov. 22 letter sent to Boeing CEO W. James McNerney Jr., Sens. Jeff Sessions and Richard Shelby and Reps. Robert Aderholt, Mo Brooks, Spencer Bachus, Mike Rogers, Martha Roby and Terri Sewell made the case for North Alabama as "the best choice" for a new production plant for Boeing's next-generation 777X. "Given that Boeing already has such a significant presence in Huntsville, including performing much of its 787 and future 777X engineering work there, you are already familiar with the large, skilled, and reliable workforce that the area provides. All of Alabama's universities offer top-notch engineering and science programs with state-of-the-art facilities that can provide the skilled personnel that your expanded presence in Huntsville would require. Locally, the University of Alabama in Huntsville offers one of the nation's best aerospace engineering programs, while the Alabama Aviation Center, in partnership with the state's two-year college system, is also committed to providing large numbers of well-educated and trained aerospace workers," lawmakers wrote. "We also hope you will remember that North Alabama's hospitable business environment includes decades of high-tech aerospace expertise, low taxation and cost-of-living, a rational regulatory regime, right-to-work laws, low utility rates, and excellent infrastructure." State and city officials met with Boeing Tuesday after reports surfaced Huntsville was one of several locations in the running to potentially produce the 777X. Boeing is considering the move after the International Association of Machinists in Washington state rejected an eight-year labor contract extension that would have kept production there. Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle said the plant could bring as many as 4,800 high-paying jobs to the area and Boeing already owns about 300 acres between the two runways at the Huntsville Inte…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140307164046/http://www.shelby.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsarticles?ContentRecord_id=26720943-319d-4fc3-a019-4592529888ca	Yellowhammer: Shelby, Sessions rail against "dictator" Harry Reid and Dems for ending filibuster	2013-11-22	2013	2013-11	Republican	House	AL	Richard Shelby	S000320	web.archive.org	legacy	WASHINGTON – On Thursday, Senate Democrats voted to do away with the filibuster as a method to block presidential judicial appointments, delivering a blow to minority party rights on nominations within Congress’ upper chamber. (Above: Sen. Jeff Sessions blasts Senate Democrats for destroying the rights of the minority party) WASHINGTON – On Thursday, Senate Democrats voted to do away with the filibuster as a method to block presidential judicial appointments, delivering a blow to minority party rights on nominations within Congress’ upper chamber. Among those who opposed Democratic Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid’s move on the filibuster were both Alabama Sens. Richard Shelby, R-Tuscaloosa, and Jeff Sessions, R-Mobile. Shelby castigated Senate Democrats and warned it would lead to President Barack Obama appointing radicals to the bench. “Senate Democrats voted to force ObamaCare on the American people,” Shelby said in a statement provided to Yellowhammer. “Despite that disastrous exercise of power, they have now voted to give themselves even more of it. If Democrats think that they deserve more power, they should earn it from voters at the polls in 2014, not swipe it with a drastic rule change in the Senate today.” “Unfortunately, this radical move will allow President Obama to stack the executive and judicial branches with radical individuals who will do anything to preserve the terrible legislation that bears his name,” he continued. “And make no mistake; today’s power grab is just the beginning.” Sessions took to the Senate floor to voice his opposition. Alabama’s junior senator declared Reid’s rule change one of the most historically significant in the history of the body. “I think it’s fair to say, without dispute, that the significance of this rule change today dwarfs any other appeal of the ruling of the chair that we’ve seen, maybe in the history of the republic,” Sessions said. “This is a big event and it changes what goes on here because we deal with power and the exercise of power. And this whole t…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140923132427/http://brooks.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=25&itemid=1087	Brooks: President Violates Constitution's Separation of Powers Clause	2013-11-22	2013	2013-11	Republican	House	AL	Mo Brooks	B001274	web.archive.org	legacy	Washington, D.C. - President Obama has repeatedly rewritten the Affordable Care Act by "executive decree" without constitutional authority to do so. In response, Congressman Mo Brooks (AL-05) has co-signed House Resolution 425 expressing congressional disapproval of President Obama’s violation of Article II, Section 3 of the Constitution to “take Care that the Laws be faithfully executed” (the "Take Care Clause"). Brooks stated, "The notion that a president can unilaterally alter duly-enacted legislation by executive fiat is unconscionable and violates more than two centuries of established constitutional law. America's Founding Fathers established a system of separation of powers and checks and balances because they feared dictatorial power resting in the hands of one or few persons. History has proven those fears justified, as time after time around the world, power resting in the hands of one or few has been abused, thus causing loss of civil liberties among the general populace, civil strife, and war." Brooks continued, "President Obama’s amending federal statutes by executive fiat is a direct attack on the rule of law and a Constitution that has served America so well for so long. In short, President Obama's executive power overreach is unparalleled in American history and shows a blatant disregard for basic constitutional principles." Brooks added, "The Constitution empowers Congress, the American people’s most direct representatives, to enact laws (subject to presidential signature or veto). The President has a duty under the Constitution's "Take Care Clause" to obey and enforce laws properly enacted. Given President Obama's power overreach, it is Congress's duty to defend the Constitution." Brooks concluded, "For more than two centuries, Senate filibuster powers forced presidents to nominate centrist, unbiased judges to interpret laws and the Constitution. Yesterday, Senator Harry Reid and the Democrat majority destroyed minority rights, thus empowering presidents to nominate extremist judg…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://roby.house.gov/roby-news/capitol-hill-mom-caucus-growing	On Capitol Hill, the Mom Caucus Is Growing	2013-11-21	2013	2013-11	Republican	House	AL	Martha Roby	R000591	roby.house.gov	legacy	At a press conference last year, Luke Russert asked House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi why, at 72, she didn’t pass the torch to a younger Democrat. He then received a televised schooling in man years and woman years. While the other Democratic women of the House booed Russert, Pelosi explained that her male colleagues had gotten a jump-start on her, since she waited until her youngest child was headed to college to run for office. “You gotta take off 14 years off [my age] because I was home raising a family,” she said, adding that she had worked throughout her career to bring younger candidates — and especially younger women — into the fold. To a certain extent, she’s succeeded. Where the previous generation of women arrived on Capitol Hill empty-nesters (Dianne Feinstein) or child-free (Barbara Mikulski), the rising class includes a number of younger women with school-age children. Legislators like Kirsten Gillibrand, Cathy McMorris Rodgers, and Kelly Ayotte are in the throes of motherhood’s most hectic years — the days of sleepovers and permission slips, memorably detailed by Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz in the New York Times’ Motherlode blog last year. And that cohort may soon be joined by more moms. Stephanie Schriock, president of the Democratic women’s recruitment and fundraising group EMILY’s List, called the 2014 slate a “sea change” for women. “We’ll see more moms of young children run and we’ll elect more moms of young children and we’ll have more policy outcomes that are reflective of women and families,” she said. “It’s a set of voices we desperately need.” In Georgia, there’s Michelle Nunn: After announcing her bid for retiring Senator Saxby Chambliss’s seat, she traveled around the state in her minivan with her husband and her sons, ages 8 and 10. In Iowa, former State Senator Staci Appel, a mother of six famous for campaigning pregnant, will make a run for the House. West Virginia’s Secretary of State Natalie Tennant — mom to Delaney — will run for senator. Wyoming hopeful Liz Cheney has two child…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.shelby.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=26610db1-33e4-4ba1-b80b-fa3318af4919	Shelby Opposes Senate Democrats' Power Grab	2013-11-21	2013	2013-11	Republican	House	AL	Richard Shelby	S000320	www.shelby.senate.gov	legacy	Shelby Opposes Senate Democrats' Power Grab WASHINGTON, DC – Thursday, November 21, 2013 -- U.S. Senator Richard Shelby (R-Ala.) today firmly opposed adoption of the so-called nuclear option, a blatant power grab by Democrats that changes Senate rules for the consideration of most executive and judicial branch nominations. The rule change allows for the approval of objectionable presidential nominees on a simple majority vote instead of the 60-vote threshold long respected by both parties when in power. This drastic move sets a dangerous precedent that could later be expanded to speed passage of expansive and controversial legislation. “Senate Democrats voted to force Obamacare on the American people,” said Shelby. “Despite that disastrous exercise of power, they have now voted to give themselves even more of it.” “If Democrats think that they deserve more power, they should earn it from voters at the polls in 2014, not swipe it with a drastic rule change in the Senate today.” “Unfortunately, this radical move will allow President Obama to stack the executive and judicial branches with radical individuals who will do anything to preserve the terrible legislation that bears his name. “And make no mistake; today’s power grab is just the beginning.” ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140307164100/http://www.shelby.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsarticles?ContentRecord_id=9fbbec9a-d9a7-4124-8cf6-888eebddfead	AL.com: Sen. Shelby votes against Janet Yellen for Fed chief: 'No confidence she will change course'	2013-11-21	2013	2013-11	Republican	House	AL	Richard Shelby	S000320	web.archive.org	legacy	Leada Gore \| lgore@al.com Sen. Richard Shelby votes against Janet Yellen for Fed chief: 'No confidence she will change course' The nomination of Janet Yellen to be the next leader of the Federal Reserve cleared the Senate Banking Committee on Thursday without the support of Alabama Senator Richard Shelby. Shelby, former chairman and current member of the Banking Committee, joined six fellow Republicans and one Democrat voting against Yellen. The committee approved the nomination 14-8. It now heads to the full Senate where the recent rules change would allow it to proceed with only a majority vote. Shelby, who met with Yellen for almost an hour in late October, said his vote reflects a lack of confidence she will reverse the Obama administration's current fiscal policies. "Since 2008, the Fed's printing presses have generated a backdoor stimulus nearly four times greater than the $787 Obama stimulus," Shelby said. "The Fed is the world's largest holder of U.S. Treasury bonds and the biggest enabler of our exploding debt. These actions also present massive risks for sharp price increases on every single product that Americans buy. "I voted against President Obama's nominee because I have no confidence that she will change course." In previous testimony, Yellen said she supported the administration's stimulus policy, despite criticism it artificially inflates stock prices. The Fed is now faced with tapering off the stimulus while trying to hold down long-term interest rates and keeping economic growth moving. In a July 17 speech, Shelby said the stimulus process is being used to "prop up markets since the financial meltdown of 2008. The implied message is striking: The Fed is taking big risks through monetary policy because administration policy is not helping the economy." Shelby said the Federal Reserve's balance sheet now stands at $3.5 trillion and continues to grow by $85 billion a month. Among those assets are $2 trillion in U.S. Treasury securities and $1.2 trillion in federal agency mortgage-backed…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/statement-congresswoman-terri-sewell-ramsay-high-school-being-recognized	Statement from Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell on Ramsay High School Being Recognized as a 2013 National Blue Ribbon School	2013-11-20	2013	2013-11	Democrat	House	AL	Terri Sewell	S001185	sewell.house.gov	legacy	Today, Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell released the following statement on Ramsay High School being named a 2013 National Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education (DOE). I am so proud of the teachers, administrators and students of Ramsay High School in Birmingham for earning this prestigious award. Ramsay High School is highly deserving of this recognition for its exceptional academic standards and exemplary student body. As one of Alabama's five National Blue Ribbon Schools for 2013, Ramsay High School has become a model and inspiration for schools across this nation. This achievement proves that public schools in Birmingham can succeed in educating and preparing our children to compete nationally. I am honored to have Ramsey High School in the 7th congressional district and congratulate them on this outstanding recognition." About Ramsey High School: Ramsay High School is located in Birmingham, Alabama beneath the foothills of Vulcan. Over 750 students throughout the Birmingham-metro area in grades nine through twelve are enrolled. A wide array of advance placement courses and extracurricular activities are offered. Ramsay is also an International Baccalaureate World School. Over sixty percent of Ramsay's students are economically disadvantaged. Approximately sixty percent of its students come from single parent families and 68 percent receive free or reduced lunch. Despite these circumstances, the consistent academic performance of the students enrolled has landed Ramsay as the 6th best high school in Alabama by World News Magazine and one of the best in the nation. About the National Blue Ribbon Award: The DOE will honor Ramsay High School along with 235 other public and 50 private schools in a recognition ceremony today in Washington, D.C. Ramsay High School is one of five schools in Alabama that have been nominated for the national Blue Ribbon School program. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://roby.house.gov/roby-news/houses-passes-keep-your-health-plan-act	Houses Passes Keep Your Health Plan Act	2013-11-19	2013	2013-11	Republican	House	AL	Martha Roby	R000591	roby.house.gov	legacy	On Friday, H.R. 3350, the Keep Your Health Plan Act passed the U.S. House of Representatives with bipartisan support. The bill would allow Americans who want to keep their non-Affordable Care Act insurance to keep their plans. Congressman Mike Rogers (R) from Saks joined the other four Republicans in Alabama's Congressional Delegation voted for the Keep Your Health Plan Act. Rogers said, “This legislation, introduced by House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Fred Upton (R-MI), would allow health care plans on the individual market to remain available so people could have the option to keep their current health care plans.” “Although this bill would help in the short term, there is no substitute for getting rid of Obamacare altogether.” Congresswoman Martha Roby (R) from Montgomery said in a written statement “Today the House acted in a bipartisan way to protect hard-working Americans from unfair rate hikes and plan cancellations. The President made a promise to the American people, and now the House of Representatives has moved to provide legislative reassurance that if Americans like their health care plans, they will truly be able to keep them.” Representative Mo Brooks (R) from Huntsville said, "President Obama promised Americans that ‘Yes We Can’ keep our health insurance when, in fact, the President meant ‘No We Can't.’ It's been one month since the Affordable Care Act opened for enrollment, and, contrary to the President's false promise, millions of Americans' health plans have been canceled, thus putting hard-working American family finances, health care, and lives at risk. I cosponsored the Keep Your Health Plan Act to guarantee that those enrolled in a health plan as of January 1, 2013, may remain enrolled on that plan regardless of Obamacare mandates. Hopefully, President Obama will stop blocking health insurance providers from providing affordable health care and insurance that has served so many Americans so well for so long. It is time for Big Brother to step aside and let Americans have the fr…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://brooks.house.gov/media-center/news-releases/bi-partisan-cyber-security-experts-unanimously-agree-healthcaregov-unsafe	Bi-Partisan Cyber-Security Experts Unanimously Agree HealthCare.gov Unsafe for Americans to Use	2013-11-19	2013	2013-11	Republican	House	AL	Mo Brooks	B001274	brooks.house.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C. Today, the Science, Space, and Technology Committee held a hearing titled Is My Data on Healthcare.gov Secure? According to the United States Department of Health and Human Services, the ObamaCare website, HealthCare.gov, was not fully security tested before it went public last month, thus exposing Americans who use HealthCare.gov to identity theft and other cyber-attack risks.Today, Congressman Mo Brooks (AL-05) pressed a bi-partisan panel of cyber-security experts to state whether they would personally advise Americans to use, or not use, HealthCare.gov in light of its security flaws.They unanimously agreed that they would not advise Americans to use HealthCare.gov because the cyber-security risks could result in identity theft or other financial losses for HealthCare.gov users. The witnesses who testified today were: Mr. Morgan Wright, Chief Executive Officer, Crowd Sourced Investigations, LLC Dr. Fred Chang, Bobby B. Lyle Centennial Distinguished Chair in Cyber Security, Southern Methodist University Dr. Avi Rubin, Director, Health and Medical Security Laboratory Technical Director, Information Security Institute, Johns Hopkins University (JHU) Mr. David Kennedy, Chief Executive Officer, TrustedSEC, LLC Congressman Brooks said, By coercing Americans into using HealthCare.gov, regardless of cyber-security threats, this Administration puts the political need for a successful rollout of socialized medicine ahead of hardworking Americans who will suffer the consequences. Brooks concluded, I find it appalling and outrageous that this Administration desperately persists in coercing American citizens into using a website that does not work while exposing users to unlimited identity theft and financial loss risks. At a minimum, this Administration should reimburse American citizens for cyber-security losses incurred by their having done nothing more than obey ObamaCare law. To date, this Administration has not offered to compensate American citizens for identity theft and other financial loss…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140923132729/http://brooks.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=25&itemid=1086	Bi-Partisan Cyber-Security Experts Unanimously Agree HealthCare.gov Unsafe for Americans to Use	2013-11-19	2013	2013-11	Republican	House	AL	Mo Brooks	B001274	web.archive.org	legacy	Washington, D.C. – Today, the Science, Space, and Technology Committee held a hearing titled “Is My Data on Healthcare.gov Secure?” According to the United States Department of Health and Human Services, the ObamaCare website, HealthCare.gov, was not fully security tested before it went public last month, thus exposing Americans who use HealthCare.gov to identity theft and other cyber-attack risks.Today, Congressman Mo Brooks (AL-05) pressed a bi-partisan panel of cyber-security experts to state whether they would personally advise Americans to use, or not use, HealthCare.gov in light of its security flaws.They unanimously agreed that they would not advise Americans to use HealthCare.gov because the cyber-security risks could result in identity theft or other financial losses for HealthCare.gov users. The witnesses who testified today were: Mr. Morgan Wright, Chief Executive Officer, Crowd Sourced Investigations, LLC Dr. Fred Chang, Bobby B. Lyle Centennial Distinguished Chair in Cyber Security, Southern Methodist University Dr. Avi Rubin, Director, Health and Medical Security Laboratory Technical Director, Information Security Institute, Johns Hopkins University (JHU) Mr. David Kennedy, Chief Executive Officer, TrustedSEC, LLC Congressman Brooks said, “By coercing Americans into using HealthCare.gov, regardless of cyber-security threats, this Administration puts the political need for a successful rollout of socialized medicine ahead of hardworking Americans who will suffer the consequences.” Brooks concluded, “I find it appalling and outrageous that this Administration desperately persists in coercing American citizens into using a website that does not work while exposing users to unlimited identity theft and financial loss risks. At a minimum, this Administration should reimburse American citizens for cyber-security losses incurred by their having done nothing more than obey ObamaCare law. To date, this Administration has not offered to compensate American citizens …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://brooks.house.gov/media-center/news-releases/brooks-broken-promises-hurt-americans	Brooks: Broken Promises Hurt Americans	2013-11-18	2013	2013-11	Republican	House	AL	Mo Brooks	B001274	brooks.house.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C. Congressman Mo Brooks (AL-05) addressed the U.S. House early this afternoon to share accounts from families in Alabama's 5th District impacted by the failed promises of ObamaCare. Congressman Brooks also expressed his support for the American Health Care Reform Act, a positive alternative to ObamaCare, that would give American taxpayers back their right to choose healthcare policies best tailored to their needs. Congressman Brooks said, ObamaCare has caused millions of Americans to receive health insurance cancellation letters, leaving them struggling with how to protect their families. Unfortunately, President Obama's recent apology for his deception has not stopped these cancellation notices, nor slowed skyrocketing health insurance costs for countless families in North Alabama and across the country. Brooks continued, The fact remains, ObamaCare is dysfunctional and threatens American lives, but there is a better way. The American Health Care Reform Act, which I have cosponsored, unleashes the power of free enterprise competition to deliver quality health care at prices Americans can better afford.Text of Congressman Brooks' remarks: Mr. Speaker, On June 15, 2009, in order to get ObamaCare passed, President Obama promised America, If you like your health care plan, you'll be able to keep your health care plan, period. No one will be able to take it away, no matter what.' On June 28, 2012, in order to get reelection votes, President Obama promised, If you're one of the more than 250 million Americans who already have health insurance, you will keep your health insurance this law will only make it more secure and more affordable.' President Obama's recent apology for his deception has not stopped cancellation of millions... millionsof American health insurance plans nor slowed the ObamaCare-caused skyrocketing health insurance costs. ObamaCare forces families to, on the one hand, pay higher ObamaCare health insurance costs and cut spending for food, shelter, and clothing or, on the other hand,…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140923132933/http://brooks.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=25&itemid=1085	Brooks: Broken Promises Hurt Americans	2013-11-18	2013	2013-11	Republican	House	AL	Mo Brooks	B001274	web.archive.org	legacy	Washington, D.C. – Congressman Mo Brooks (AL-05) addressed the U.S. House early this afternoon to share accounts from families in Alabama’s 5th District impacted by the failed promises of ObamaCare. Congressman Brooks also expressed his support for the American Health Care Reform Act, a positive alternative to ObamaCare, that would give American taxpayers back their right to choose healthcare policies best tailored to their needs. Congressman Brooks said, “ObamaCare has caused millions of Americans to receive health insurance cancellation letters, leaving them struggling with how to protect their families. Unfortunately, President Obama’s recent apology for his deception has not stopped these cancellation notices, nor slowed skyrocketing health insurance costs for countless families in North Alabama and across the country.” Brooks continued, “The fact remains, ObamaCare is dysfunctional and threatens American lives, but there is a better way. The American Health Care Reform Act, which I have cosponsored, unleashes the power of free enterprise competition to deliver quality health care at prices Americans can better afford.” Among other things, theAmerican Health Care Reform Act: First, forces lower health care costs by legalizing interstate competition among insurance companies. Second, reforms medical malpractice laws so that health insurance is paying for health care, not frivolous lawsuits. Third, lets Americans deduct health care costs and gives Americans a standard deduction for health insurance costs. Four, protects Americans with pre-existing conditions by bolstering state-based high risk pools. Video of Congressman Brooks’ remarks is available HERE. Text of Congressman Brooks’ remarks: “Mr. Speaker, On June 15, 2009, in order to get ObamaCare passed, President Obama promised America, ‘If you like your health care plan, you’ll be able to keep your health care plan, period. No one will be able to take it away, no matter what.’ “On June 28, 2012, in orde…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://mike-rogers.house.gov/press-release/rogers-praises-passage-%E2%80%9Ckeep-your-health-plan-act%E2%80%9D	Rogers Praises Passage of “Keep Your Health Plan Act”	2013-11-15	2013	2013-11	Republican	House	AL	Mike Rogers	R000575	mike-rogers.house.gov	legacy	(WASHINGTON, DC)—Congressman Mike Rogers said he was pleased to see the passage of H.R. 3350, the Keep Your Health Plan Act of 2013, in the House of Representatives today. This bill, if passed by the Senate and signed by the president, would allow health care plans on the individual market to remain available so people across East Alabama can have the option to keep their current health care plans. Rogers was a cosponsor of the legislation introduced by Rep. Fred Upton (R-MI). “The passage of the Keep Your Health Plan Act could help remedy a huge problem with Obamacare. Although the President promised time and time again Americans could keep their health plans, on October 1st, many people received letters from their health plan providers that stated the opposite. This bill will help fix that problem by allowing people to keep their current plans. “Americans are suffering because of the Obamacare disaster and I will continue to work to repeal it. Since the Senate refuses to accept reality that the law is broken, I hope they will quickly act on this bill to help bring some relief to hard-working Americans being hurt by rising healthcare premiums and the loss of their health plans,” Rogers said. Rogers serves as Chairman of the Strategic Forces subcommittee on the Armed Services Committee and is a senior member of the Homeland Security and Agriculture committees. -###-	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://roby.house.gov/press-release/roby-bipartisan-%E2%80%9Ckeep-your-health-plan-act%E2%80%9D-will-hold-obama-his-promise	Roby: Bipartisan “Keep Your Health Plan Act” Will Hold Obama to His Promise	2013-11-15	2013	2013-11	Republican	House	AL	Martha Roby	R000591	roby.house.gov	legacy	U.S. Representative Martha Roby (R-AL) today applauded the bipartisan passage of the “Keep Your Health Plan Act” which would hold President Obama to his promise that “if you like your health care plan, you will be able to keep your health plan. Period.” “Today the House acted in a bipartisan way to protect hard-working Americans from unfair rate hikes and plan cancellations. The President made a promise to the American people, and now the House of Representatives has moved to provide legislative reassurance that if Americans like their health care plans, they will truly be able to keep them. “This is an issue on which many Republicans and Democrats can find common ground. The ‘Keep Your Health Plan Act’ won’t fix every problem with ObamaCare, but it will offer real choices and peace of mind to Americans affected by these changes. Similar legislation also has broad bipartisan support in the Senate, and I urge Majority Leader Harry Reid to bring the bill forward for a vote right away. President Obama announced Thursday he would pursue an "administrative" change that would allow insurers to continue offering canceled insurance plans for another year even though they may not comply with the Affordable Care Act. “The good news is the President is finally waking up and acknowledging that people are hurting because of this law. And there’s no question our efforts to tell the stories of what real people are going through put pressure on the Administration to act. “The problem is ObamaCare can’t be fixed through executive orders. What you’re seeing now is just the beginning. It’s going to get worse. We need to start over and build a health care system that isn’t run by the government and can actually focus on the needs of patients. “I recently reached out to Alabamians asking those who have experienced health plan cancellations or rate increases because of ObamaCare to tell me their stories. The response has been overwhelming, and I shared a handful of them on the House floor yesterday.” The “Keep Your Health Plan Act” …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://roby.house.gov/roby-news/alabama-congressional-republicans-united-yes-vote-keep-your-healthcare-act	Alabama congressional Republicans united in 'yes' vote for Keep Your Healthcare Act	2013-11-15	2013	2013-11	Republican	House	AL	Martha Roby	R000591	roby.house.gov	legacy	Alabama's five Republican representatives all voted in favor Friday of a plan allowing insurers to continue to offer existing health coverage even if they don't meet the standards of the Affordable Care Act. The Keep Your Healthcare Act passed on a vote of 261-157 with 39 Democrats joining all but four Republicans supporting the bill introduced by Rep. Fred Upton, R-Mich. Reps. Martha Roby, Mo Brooks, Mike Rogers, Spencer Bachus and Robert Aderholt voted in favor of the bill. Alabama's only Democratic representative, Terri Sewell, voted against the measure that would allow insurance providers to continue to offer cheaper plans purchased or substantially altered since the ACA was passed three years ago. President Obama warned he would veto the bill if it reaches his desk. On Thursday, the president said an administrative fix allowing a one-year grace period in which people will be able to keep their existing insurance coverage will solve the issue of policy cancellations that has plagued the ACA since its Oct. 1 rollout. Roby said the bipartisan passage of the bill would "hold the president to his promise that 'if you like your health care plan, you will be able to keep your health plan. Period." "This is an issue on which many Republicans and Democrats can find common ground. The 'Keep Your Health Plan Act' won't fix every problem with Obamacare, but it will offer real choices and peace of mind to Americans affected by these changes," she said. Bachus said the bill provides relief to people in danger of losing their current coverage but emphasized the Affordable Care Act, commonly known as Obamacare, is fundamentally flawed and needs to be replaced. "Obamacare is one of the biggest political fiascos that I have ever seen. It was always a big government 'solution' and we know those do not work," Bachus said. "The basic structure of Obamacare is unsound and the lasting answer is to replace it with common sense reforms that will improve affordability and accessibility without putting federal bureaucrats in Washingto…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://roby.house.gov/roby-news/alabama-republicans-unanimous-support-%E2%80%98keep-your-health-plan-act%E2%80%99	Alabama Republicans unanimous in support of ‘Keep Your Health Plan Act’	2013-11-15	2013	2013-11	Republican	House	AL	Martha Roby	R000591	roby.house.gov	legacy	On Friday afternoon, the U.S. House passed the Keep Your Health Plan Act, allowing individuals to keep their private health insurance plans even if those plans don’t meet the ObamaCare coverage requirements. Every Republican in Alabama’s congressional delegation voted in favor of the bill, which ultimately passed with bipartisan support by a 261-157 vote. “America is over six weeks into the ObamaCare rollout and things are just a mess,” Rep. Mike Rogers, R-Saks, said on the House floor prior to the vote. “Families are being forced into different and oftentimes more expensive plans… One person contacted me and said their premiums went up $200 a month. Another family contacted me and their policy premiums are going up $740 per month. The president promised from the beginning, quote, ‘If you like your health care plan, you’ll be able to keep your health care plan, period,’ closed quote. But that’s turned out not to be the case and he knew it all along.” Rep. Spencer Bachus, R-Vestavia Hills, called ObamaCare “one of the biggest political fiascos that I have ever seen.” “The President made a promise to the American people,” Rep. Martha Roby, R-Montgomery, added. “And now the House of Representatives has moved to provide legislative reassurance that if Americans like their health care plans, they will truly be able to keep them.” Support for the GOP’s bill was so overwhelming that even some Democrats — 39 to be exact — were eager to go on record voting in favor of it. But President Obama had already issued a veto threat before the vote, meaning the legislation is very unlikely to become law. The president has proposed a “fix” that would allow only individuals whose health insurance was cancelled this year to re-enroll in their plans next year. But the GOP’s bill, sponsored by Rep. Fred Upton, R-MI, allows insurers to continue offering the same plans that were available before ObamaCare rules went into effect. Upton’s bill is also not only limited to a single year. Rep. Terri Sewell, D-Birmingham, was the only member o…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://brooks.house.gov/media-center/news-releases/americas-veterans-deserve-more-obamacares-broken-promises	America's Veterans Deserve More than Obamacare's Broken Promises	2013-11-15	2013	2013-11	Republican	House	AL	Mo Brooks	B001274	brooks.house.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C. This morning Congressman Mo Brooks (AL-05) addressed the U.S. House of Representatives, standing up for America's Veterans, who deserve more than the failed promises of the President's healthcare law.Video of Congressman Brooks' remarks is available HERE.Text of Congressman Brooks' remarks: Mr. Speaker, America's veterans protect America and our liberties. Which begs the question, does Obamacare keep our promises and obligations to veterans? Marcus Langford, a veteran from Huntsville, Alabama wrote me the following: I am a married father of two and a disabled vet after three tours in Iraq and over two years in Afghanistan supporting our military. My healthcare costs are $399 a month, but because of the Affordable Healthcare Act my bill will go up to $741 a month as of January 2014.' Mr. Speaker, America's veterans deserve better than the 60 percent increase in healthcare costs that the White House and its democrat congressional allies obstinately impose on hardworking Americans like Marcus Langford. The way to do better is to repeal Obamacare so that America can debate healthcare solutions based on truth not deception. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/statement-congresswoman-terri-sewell-president-obamas-plan-help	Statement from Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell on President Obama's Plan to Help Consumers Facing Cancellations to Healthcare Insurance Policies	2013-11-15	2013	2013-11	Democrat	House	AL	Terri Sewell	S001185	sewell.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C.- Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell (D-AL) released the following statement in response to President Obama's Plan to Help Consumers Facing Cancellations to their Healthcare Insurance Policies: I remain committed to the Affordable Care Act which is designed to provide access to health care for all Americans. While no law is perfect, I believe it is imperative that we provide access to healthcare for the 42 million Americans that are uninsured. I am encouraged by the President's efforts to honor his promise to ensure that individuals keep their current plans while giving them one year to evaluate better coverage options under the Affordable Care Act. I hope that those individuals that have plans with insufficient coverage will take this year to evaluate alternative plans that may in fact be better. It is my hope that the Administration continues to make the regulatory changes necessary to improve the Affordable Care Act so that it works for all insured and uninsured Americans. I voted against H.R.3350 (the bill sponsored by Rep. Fred Upton) because it is yet another attempt to repeal the Affordable Care Act. Rather than working together to improve this law, this bill seeks to unravel the protections and securities provided to the American people through the ACA. This bill puts insurance companies back in charge of our health care which could allow them to continue discriminating against people with pre-existing conditions and forcing women to pay more than men for the same coverage. We need to work together to improve the unintended consequences of the Affordable Care Act rather than dismantle it. For more background about the President's announcement please visit:http://www.whitehouse.gov/blog/2013/11/14/president-obama-announces-new-steps-help-americans-receiving-insurance-cancellation- ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20131205161130/http://sewell.house.gov/press-release/statement-congresswoman-terri-sewell-president-obama%E2%80%99s-plan-help-consumers-facing	Statement from Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell on President Obama’s Plan to Help Consumers Facing Cancellations to Healthcare Insurance Policies	2013-11-15	2013	2013-11	Democrat	House	AL	Terri Sewell	S001185	web.archive.org	legacy	Statement from Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell on President Obama’s Plan to Help Consumers Facing Cancellations to Healthcare Insurance Policies Nov 15, 2013 WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell (D-AL) released the following statement in response to President Obama’s Plan to Help Consumers Facing Cancellations to their Healthcare Insurance Policies: “I remain committed to the Affordable Care Act which is designed to provide access to health care for all Americans. While no law is perfect, I believe it is imperative that we provide access to healthcare for the 42 million Americans that are uninsured. I am encouraged by the President’s efforts to honor his promise to ensure that individuals keep their current plans while giving them one year to evaluate better coverage options under the Affordable Care Act. I hope that those individuals that have plans with insufficient coverage will take this year to evaluate alternative plans that may in fact be better. It is my hope that the Administration continues to make the regulatory changes necessary to improve the Affordable Care Act so that it works for all insured and uninsured Americans. I voted against H.R.3350 (the bill sponsored by Rep. Fred Upton) because it is yet another attempt to repeal the Affordable Care Act. Rather than working together to improve this law, this bill seeks to unravel the protections and securities provided to the American people through the ACA. This bill puts insurance companies back in charge of our health care which could allow them to continue discriminating against people with pre-existing conditions and forcing women to pay more than men for the same coverage. We need to work together to improve the unintended consequences of the Affordable Care Act rather than dismantle it.” For more background about the Pr…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140923133134/http://brooks.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=25&itemid=1084	America's Veterans Deserve More than Obamacare's Broken Promises	2013-11-15	2013	2013-11	Republican	House	AL	Mo Brooks	B001274	web.archive.org	legacy	Washington, D.C. – This morning Congressman Mo Brooks (AL-05) addressed the U.S. House of Representatives, standing up for America’s Veterans, who deserve more than the failed promises of the President’s healthcare law. Video of Congressman Brooks’ remarks is available HERE. Text of Congressman Brooks’ remarks: “Mr. Speaker, America’s veterans protect America and our liberties. Which begs the question, does Obamacare keep our promises and obligations to veterans? “Marcus Langford, a veteran from Huntsville, Alabama wrote me the following: ‘I am a married father of two and a disabled vet after three tours in Iraq and over two years in Afghanistan supporting our military. My healthcare costs are $399 a month, but because of the Affordable Healthcare Act my bill will go up to $741 a month as of January 2014.’ “Mr. Speaker, America’s veterans deserve better than the 60 percent increase in healthcare costs that the White House and its democrat congressional allies obstinately impose on hardworking Americans like Marcus Langford. The way to do better is to repeal Obamacare so that America can debate healthcare solutions based on truth not deception.” ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://roby.house.gov/press-release/video-roby-shares-constituent-health-care-stories-house-floor	VIDEO: Roby Shares Constituent Health Care Stories on the House Floor	2013-11-14	2013	2013-11	Republican	House	AL	Martha Roby	R000591	roby.house.gov	legacy	U.S. Representative Martha Roby (R-AL) today shared personal stories from local Alabama residents about the impact that the Affordable Care Act is having on their families’ health insurance. Rep. Roby also highlighted her support for the “Keep Your Health Plan Act,” which is due for a vote in the House on Friday. After reports surfaced of thousands of Alabama health insurance policyholders seeing plan cancellations or rate hikes, Rep. Roby reached out to constituents asking those who experienced such difficulties to share their personal stories. After receiving hundreds of responses, Rep. Roby shared a handful of health care stories from constituents in Dothan, Montgomery, Greenville, and Prattville. On Friday, the House is expected to vote on the “Keep Your Health Plan Act,” authored by Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Fred Upton (R-MI). The bill would ensure individual policy holders who like their healthcare are truly allowed to keep it as the President originally promised. Constituents can still share their ObamaCare stories with Rep. Roby on Facebook or Twitter, by email, or by calling Rep. Roby’s Washington, D.C. office at 202-225-2901. Below is the complete transcript of Rep. Roby’s floor speech. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to share some of the stories of Alabamians who are being negatively affected by implementation of the Affordable Care Act. Over the last several weeks, thousands of health insurance policy-holders in Alabama have received notice that their plans have been cancelled or altered, and their costs have risen – some quite dramatically. This despite President Obama’s often-repeated and unmistakable promise to the contrary. He promised of the Affordable Care Act, quote: “If you like your doctor, you will be able to keep your doctor. Period. If you like your health care plan you be able to keep you health care plan. Period. No one will take it away, no matter what.” Mr. Speaker, we now know that this wasn’t true. To make matters worse, the disastrous roll out of the ObamaCare websit…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://roby.house.gov/roby-news/alabama-lawmakers-blast-obamacare-change-its-last-minute-so-called-fix	Alabama lawmakers blast Obamacare change: It's a 'last-minute, so-called fix'	2013-11-14	2013	2013-11	Republican	House	AL	Martha Roby	R000591	roby.house.gov	legacy	Alabama lawmakers are blasting the President's announcement that insurance companies will be allowed to offer health policies cancelled under Obamacare for another year, saying the change is only the latest effort to fix a fundamentally flawed system. "Obamacare is hurting hard-working families across the country," Rep. Mike Rogers, R-Saks, said. "Folks in East Alabama have contacted me about the changes in their current healthcare policies and the increase in their premium costs. "The best path forward is to get rid of Obamacare altogether, and I am deeply skeptical of this most recent last-minute, so-called fix." Rogers, along with Rep. Martha Roby, R-Montgomery, and Rep. Mo Brooks, R-Huntsville, are among the 88 co-sponsors of the "Keep Your Health Plan Act," that allows people to keep their existing health insurance, a promise made by President Obama during his efforts to pass the Affordable Care Act. The president later apologized for those comments. The House is set to vote on the bill Friday. "This bill has bipartisan support and is the legislation the president should sign into law, not some last minute, politically-motivated administrative move overseen by Washington bureaucrats," he said. Roby, who presented ACA stories from her constituents on the House floor Thursday, said the disastrous rollout of the Obamacare website has made it impossible for those affected by the changes to search for alternatives. Roby said her office received feedback from one Montgomery resident who said her family's premiums were increasing from $400 to $722 a month. The woman said she spent more than six hours on healthcare.gov trying to get more information only to find her deductibles were now much higher, Roby said. "The president didn't tell the truth, and Americans who took him at his word are paying the price," Roby said. "I don't know why the president repeatedly misled the country about the true implications of his healthcare law." A similar bill has also been introduced in the Democrat-controlled Senate. That bil…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://roby.house.gov/roby-news/house-gop-pounces-bad-obamacare-news	House GOP pounces on bad ObamaCare news	2013-11-14	2013	2013-11	Republican	House	AL	Martha Roby	R000591	roby.house.gov	legacy	House Republicans on Thursday kept up pressure on finding a legislative fix to ObamaCare, a day after the administration announced that just 27,000 people were able to buy insurance through the federal government in October. That announcement came after several weeks of reports that millions of people who had health insurance are being told their plans will be canceled because those plans don't measure up to ObamaCare's new health insurance standards. That combination led Rep. John Duncan (R-Tenn.) to argue on the floor today that the key promises of ObamaCare have failed to materialize. "One of leading supporters of the act was famously quoted as saying we would have to pass the law before we could find out what was in it," Duncan said, referring to House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.). "Now we're finding out all the promises, about keeping your plan if you like it, keeping your doctor if you like him, premiums would go down as much as $2,500 a year, were all false, exaggerated or at least incorrect." Rep. Martha Roby (R-Ala.) called on members to support the Keep Your Health Plan Act, which the House will vote on and likely pass on Friday. That bill would allow insurance companies to continue to offer plans that would otherwise have to be canceled under the law. "This bill also ensures that Americans choosing to maintain their healthcare plans will not face a tax penalty under ObamaCare," Roby said. Rep. Mo Brooks (R-Ala.) noted a new legal challenge that could result in a finding that ObamaCare is unconstitutional. That challenge, now in the DC Court of Appeals, says the bill violates the Constitution because it was a revenue bill that did not originate in the House. Last week, 40 Republicans filed a brief in support of that challenge. "If these judges will put their partisanship and egos aside, if these judges will apply the Constitution as it is written and intended, if these judges will simply honor their oath of office, then ObamaCare will be declared unconstitutional because it violates the Origi…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://roby.house.gov/roby-news/roby-shares-alabamians%E2%80%99-obamacare-horror-stories-floor-us-house	Roby shares Alabamians’ ObamaCare horror stories on floor of US House	2013-11-14	2013	2013-11	Republican	House	AL	Martha Roby	R000591	roby.house.gov	legacy	After asking constituents to send her their ObamaCare horror stories last week, Rep. Martha Roby, R-Montgomery, this morning took to the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives and detailed some of the stories to her colleagues. Roby began by recounting some of the promises that President Barack Obama has failed to deliver on. “If you like your doctor, you will be able to keep your doctor, period. If you like your healthcare plan, you will be able to keep your healthcare plan, period. No one will take it away no matter what,” Roby said, quoting the president. “Mr. Speaker, we now know this wasn’t true.” She then offered proof from Alabama’s second congressional district. “Allison Strickland, a wife and homeschooling mother of four writes: We are a family of six with one income, and our premiums doubled from $420 to $940 a month. We are already under great financial strain, and this is not helping relieve any of the tension. At this point, we are unsure about what we are going to do. With four growing children we know insurance is vital, but at what cost to the daily needs of our family? We are very disappointed in the Obama administration.” “Sean Cunningham of Montgomery writes: I am a married father of two beautiful little girls. My jaw dropped when I found out my family’s premium was going from $400 a month to $722. I called Blue Cross first thing Monday morning, but I was told I needed to contact healthcare.gov for assistance. After six hours with them on the phone trying to apply for a subsidy, I did manage to find out that there was a cheaper premium. I could choose the ‘blue-saver bronze at a rate of $545 per month, which was still an increase over the plan I liked. The other problem? My individual deductible would be $6,350. And my family deductible would be $12,700. I fail to see anything affordable about this.” “Chris Dukovich of Montgomery was notified that my policy was not ACA compliant. Paying $390 for family coverage. Just found out comparable plan, silver, would be $704. My out-of-pocket went up…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://roby.house.gov/roby-news/senate-gop-supports-robys-comp-time-bill	Senate GOP supports Roby's comp-time bill	2013-11-14	2013	2013-11	Republican	House	AL	Martha Roby	R000591	roby.house.gov	legacy	Senate Republicans are promoting a comp-time proposal by GOP Rep. Martha Roby of Alabama as a way to bring more flexibility to the workplace. Roby’s bill would let hourly employees in the private sector choose time off instead of overtime pay. Sens. Mitch McConnell of Kentucky and Mike Lee of Utah recently introduced similar versions of the legislation, which passed the House in May. It would make comp time a voluntary option for employees who have worked overtime, just like in the public sector. “While Congress can’t legislate another hour in the day, we can help working Americans better balance the demands of work and family,” said McConnell, the Senate’s minority leader. Lee said the idea is part of an overall GOP strategy to address issues important to the middle class. “For many families, especially with young children, their most precious commodity is time,” Lee said. Despite the interest from the Republican senators, the bill appears unlikely to become law. House Democrats strongly opposed Roby’s bill, and Democrats in charge of the Senate are raising the same objections. “Working families are desperate for more flexibility at work and more time with their families,” said Sen. Tom Harkin, D-Iowa. “Unfortunately, I have concerns about this bill and whether it will deliver what it promises and in a way that protects workers from being pressured into making choices that will actually hurt their families.” Harkin is chairman of the Senate committee that will review the proposals from McConnell and Lee. Almost all House Democrats voted against Roby’s bill. They said it would prompt employers to pressure workers to take comp time instead of overtime pay in order to cut payroll costs. They also said it doesn’t guarantee that comp time could be taken when an employee needed it. Harkin said he prefers his proposed Healthy Families Act, which would provide a “more definite” benefit, such as allowing workers to earn up to seven paid sick days a year. He called the GOP comp-time bills “the wrong approach to the very c…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://brooks.house.gov/media-center/news-releases/brooks-encourages-appellate-court-find-affordable-care-act-violates	Brooks Encourages Appellate Court to Find that Affordable Care Act Violates the Constitution's Origination Clause	2013-11-14	2013	2013-11	Republican	House	AL	Mo Brooks	B001274	brooks.house.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C. Standing before the U.S. House this morning, Congressman Mo Brooks (AL-05) discussed the case of Sissel v. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, which challenges the constitutionality of roughly 20 tax increases that fund the President's healthcare law.Congressman Brooks and thirty-nine other Members of Congress joined to file a friend of the court brief this week that urges the Court of Appeals to obey the Constitution and declare Affordable Care Act taxes unconstitutional because they violate the Origination Clause. Congressman Brooks stated, Constitution Article 1, Section 7 is the Origination Clause. It states, in part, that, All Bills for raising Revenue shall originate in the House.' Brooks continued, The Senate took a House passed bill that raised no taxes, deleted its substantive provisions, and substituted a six page House bill with a 2,074 page Senate bill commonly referred to as ObamaCare that raised roughly $50 billion dollars a year in new taxes. None of the ObamaCare tax increases were in the original House bill. Hence, all of these tax increases originated in the Senate, not the House, thereby violating the Origination Clause requirement that tax increases originate in the House. Brooks concluded, No American court in history has ever upheld the Constitutionality of taxes under the circumstances presented by ObamaCare. Doing so now would undermine and nullify the letter and spirit of the Origination Clause in a Constitution that has served America so well for so long.Mr. Speaker, in a bold and agile display of legal sophistry, United States Supreme Court Justice John Roberts upheld the Affordable Care Act by declaring it a tax while failing to address whether the tax complied with the Origination Clause of our Constitution. The case of Sissel v. the United States Department of Health and Human Services is pending before the D.C. Court of Appeals and headed to the Supreme Court. Sissel challenges the Constitutionality of roughly 20 tax increases that fund Government-Run …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-terri-sewell-releases-alert-constituents-regarding-reports	Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell Releases Alert to Constituents Regarding Reports of Fraud in USDA Farmer Discrimination Cases	2013-11-14	2013	2013-11	Democrat	House	AL	Terri Sewell	S001185	sewell.house.gov	legacy	Congresswoman Terri Sewell (D-AL) released the following warning to constituents against individuals soliciting funds in exchange for the re-opening of USDA farmer discrimination cases: Growing reports of fraud in the 7th Congressional District involving USDA farmer discrimination cases have been brought to my attention over the past several days. According to multiple sources, certain individuals are illegally soliciting funds from people with the promise of reopening several USDA farmer discrimination cases. Local law enforcement officials have reported that some of these individuals are fraudulently claiming to be collecting funds on behalf of my office in exchange for the re-opening of these cases. It is critical that the public is warned against these scams. The fact is that the Black, Native American, Hispanic and Women Farmer Lawsuits have been adjudicated.No more claims in these lawsuits can be filed and there are currently no plans to provide additional settlement.The claims period for the Second Settlement Phase of the Black Farmer Lawsuit (Pigford II) ended on May 11, 2012. The Hispanic (Garcia v. Vilsack) and Women (Love v Vilsack)Farmer claims period ended on May 1, 2013. The Native American Farmer claims period (Keepseagle v. Vilsack) closed on December 27, 2011. In no instance will a member of my staff or a representative from my office approach an individual to request funds in exchange for assistance with these settlements.My constituents are advised to refrain from providing any funds to individuals or groups offering such assistance. If solicited, constituents should notify local law enforcement and report such instances to my Birmingham district office at 205-254-1960 so that perpetrators can be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. My office will continue to work with law enforcement to ensure that minority farmers are protected from these fraudulent scams. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140923133336/http://brooks.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=25&itemid=1083	Brooks Encourages Appellate Court to Find that Affordable Care Act Violates the Constitution's Origination Clause	2013-11-14	2013	2013-11	Republican	House	AL	Mo Brooks	B001274	web.archive.org	legacy	Washington, D.C. – Standing before the U.S. House this morning, Congressman Mo Brooks (AL-05) discussed the case of Sissel v. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, which challenges the constitutionality of roughly 20 tax increases that fund the President’s healthcare law.Congressman Brooks and thirty-nine other Members of Congress joined to file a “friend of the court brief” this week that urges the Court of Appeals to obey the Constitution and declare Affordable Care Act taxes unconstitutional because they violate the Origination Clause. Congressman Brooks stated, “Constitution Article 1, Section 7 is the Origination Clause. It states, in part, that, ‘All Bills for raising Revenue shall originate in the House.’” Brooks continued, “The Senate took a House passed bill that raised no taxes, deleted its substantive provisions, and substituted a six page House bill with a 2,074 page Senate bill – commonly referred to as ObamaCare – that raised roughly $50 billion dollars a year in new taxes. None of the ObamaCare tax increases were in the original House bill. Hence, all of these tax increases originated in the Senate, not the House, thereby violating the Origination Clause requirement that tax increases originate in the House.” Brooks concluded, “No American court in history has ever upheld the Constitutionality of taxes under the circumstances presented by ObamaCare. Doing so now would undermine and nullify the letter and spirit of the Origination Clause in a Constitution that has served America so well for so long.” Video of Congressman Brooks’ remarks is available HERE. Text of Congressman Brooks’ remarks: “Mr. Speaker, in a bold and agile display of legal sophistry, United States Supreme Court Justice John Roberts upheld the Affordable Care Act by declaring it a tax while failing to address whether the tax complied with the Origination Clause of our Constitution. “The case of Sissel v. the United States Department of Health and Human Services is pendin…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://mike-rogers.house.gov/press-release/obamacare-you-can%E2%80%99t-keep-your-health-plan	Obamacare: You Can’t Keep Your Health Plan	2013-11-13	2013	2013-11	Republican	House	AL	Mike Rogers	R000575	mike-rogers.house.gov	legacy	(WASHINGTON, D.C.)—America is over six weeks in to the Obamacare rollout, and things are still a mess. People are still having problems signing up, but even more painful are the letters folks are receiving about the changes to their current health care plans. Every day we are hearing more and more about people’s current health care plans being dropped completely. Because of this, families and individuals are now being forced into different and often times much more expensive health care plans. Many folks across East Alabama may have to make the tough decision to forego their health insurance because of unforeseen increases in the cost of their health care premiums and deductibles. Yet under Obamacare, folks are required to purchase health insurance by March of 2014 to avoid paying a penalty. They just cannot afford any of it. President Obama promised from the beginning that ‘if you like your health care plan, you'll be able to keep your health care plan, period,’ but that has turned out not to be the case. Obamacare has many flaws, but forcing people off their current plans when they were promised they could keep what they had has really hit home. That is why I recently cosponsored H.R. 3350, the Keep Your Health Plan Act. This legislation, introduced by House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Fred Upton (R-MI), would allow health care plans on the individual market to remain available so people could have the option to keep their current health care plans. This legislation would help ease some of the current pain and confusion across East Alabama for those hard-working families being forced into different health care plans. Although this bill would help in the short term, there is no substitute for getting rid of Obamacare altogether. I will continue to work toward that goal. As always, please feel free to contact me on this or any issue at mike-rogers.house.gov, like me on Facebook at Congressman Mike D. Rogers, follow me on Twitter, Pinterest, Tumblr and Instagram at RepMikeRogersAL and subscribe to my…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140222045052/http://www.sessions.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=5386aa27-f408-53ee-517b-e3613f0c6512	Sessions Writes EPA Regarding Regulatory Overreach Impacting Alabama, U.S. Jobs	2013-11-13	2013	2013-11	Republican	House	AL	Jeff Sessions	S001141	web.archive.org	legacy	WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Jeff Sessions, Ranking Member of the Senate Subcommittee on Clean Air & Nuclear Safety, sent a letter today to the Administrator of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) expressing concerns about new EPA air regulations impacting brick manufacturing jobs in the United States. After sending the letter, Sen. Sessions stated: A full text of the letter follows. To view it as a PDF, please click here: November 13, 2013 “The Honorable Gina McCarthy Administrator, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency 1200 Pennsylvania Avenue NW Washington DC 20460 Dear Administrator McCarthy: We are writing to express our views regarding the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) upcoming Maximum Achievable Control Technology (MACT) rule for brick and structural clay processes, which is scheduled for proposal by February 6, 2014, and finalization by December 18, 2014.[1] This “Brick MACT,” if crafted imprudently, could jeopardize the economic viability of brick manufacturers and distributors in our states and imperil hundreds of thousands of jobs nationwide. We urge you to exercise the discretion provided by Congress in the Clean Air Act (CAA) to minimize regulatory burdens on the brick industry that do not provide commensurate environmental benefit. We urge EPA to fully consider how such measures would affect public health and the economic vitality of brick manufacturers, distributors, and communities that rely on them for their livelihood. The brick industry is in a unique situation. In 2003, EPA issued a Brick MACT (68 Fed. Reg. 26,689) that the brick industry implemented at a total compliance cost of approximately $100 million. Controls installed to comply with the 2003 MACT rule largely remain in operation. This 2003 MACT, however, was subsequently vacated by a federal court in 2007 due to no fault of the brick industry. As you can appreciate, it is highly problematic when an industry is subject to two consecutive rounds of technology-based MACT rules, particularly after complian…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140222050026/http://www.sessions.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=52fc407b-b26c-ead1-38ca-7b0bdf196f03	Sessions Issues Statement On Passing Of State Director Chuck Spurlock	2013-11-13	2013	2013-11	Republican	House	AL	Jeff Sessions	S001141	web.archive.org	legacy	WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Jeff Sessions (R-AL) released the following statement today after the passing of his State Director and longtime friend, Chuck Spurlock: “I am heartbroken over the passing of my friend and State Director, Chuck Spurlock. Chuck loved life, had high ethical and moral standards, and always reflected the best qualities of public service. He was a loyal patriot and a truly loyal friend and confidant. We spent countless hours driving the state, often into the night, talking together. He was the first person named to my Senate staff. Chuck was one of the most knowledgeable people, perhaps the most knowledgeable person concerning politics and government in Alabama over the past 25 years. Members of our delegation in Congress, friends, office holders, and candidates throughout Alabama regularly sought his opinion and insight. His judgment was highly favored. He loved the practical aspects of politics while being an historian and intellectual. The state staff he supervised loved him and he loved them and was constantly supportive of their work. Chuck loved his family dearly and they him. The constant support, encouragement, and affection Phyllis and the children showed him during this difficult time was inspiring to us all. I join Chuck’s friends across every corner of Alabama mourning the passing of a great man.” BACKGROUND: Charles H. “Chuck” Spurlock was born in Nashville, Tennessee. He earned his B.A. in History and Religion at Duke University and his M.A. in European History from Vanderbilt University. Chuck was a renowned expert in politics and history and delivered lectures for many organizations throughout the state. Mr. Spurlock served as the campaign manager to Sen. Sessions’ bid for Alabama Attorney General and later as his Press Secretary and Legislative Liaison in the Attorney General’s office. He was the Finance Director for Sessions’ first U.S. Senate race and was the first member named to Sen. Sessions’ staff. Mr. Spurlock served for the past 17 years as Sessions’ sta…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140222050834/http://www.sessions.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=53468106-bec1-ef7f-6328-95aec6f65971	Sessions Comments On Boehner Immigration Announcement, Sounds Note of Caution	2013-11-13	2013	2013-11	Republican	House	AL	Jeff Sessions	S001141	web.archive.org	legacy	“Today’s announcement is an important and positive development… But a word of caution: the groups pushing for Gang of Eight-style legislation are well-financed and very powerful.” WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Jeff Sessions (R-AL), a senior member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, released the following statement today after Speaker Boehner announced he would not agree to a Conference Committee with the Senate’s immigration bill. Sessions praised the House while also sounding a note of caution that the Gang of Eight’s powerful backers will keep pushing aggressively for their desired legislative outcome: “Today’s announcement is an important and positive development for our nation, our people, and the Republican party. House Republicans are resisting an influence campaign and standing for the interests of the American people. But a word of caution: the groups pushing for Gang of Eight-style legislation are well-financed and very powerful. The Gang of Eight bill’s fatal flaw was always that it answered to the special interests at the expense of the national interest. Arguably the single most destructive feature of the Senate’s immigration bill was the massive permanent surge in low-skill immigration that would reduce wages and increase unemployment. The White House and Senate Democrats shamelessly coordinated with a small cadre of CEOs to pressure House Republicans to yield. It’s time for Republicans to tell these special interests to get lost and to be the one party that will defend the interests of the millions of Americans looking for better jobs and better wages. This is the moment for a vision to emerge centered on growth and prosperity for working Americans—not just the powerful and well-connected.”	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://roby.house.gov/press-release/constituent-shares-family%E2%80%99s-obamacare-impact-story-fox-news	Constituent Shares Family’s ObamaCare Impact Story on Fox News	2013-11-12	2013	2013-11	Republican	House	AL	Martha Roby	R000591	roby.house.gov	legacy	A Dothan, Alabama resident appeared on a national cable news show to share her family’s story about how implementation of the Affordable Care Act is making life difficult and more expensive. Allyson Strickland, a homeschooling mother of four whose husband works in the construction industry, appeared Friday on Fox News’ “On the Record with Greta van Sustren” program sharing that her family’s premiums had more than doubled from $440 to $920 because of plan changes forced by the healthcare law. Strickland was among the first to respond to a public request by U.S. Representative Martha Roby (R-AL) for stories illustrating personal difficulties related to health care law changes. Rep. Roby said responses continue to pour in from Alabamians experiencing insurance plan cancellations and rate hikes, some of which she plans to highlight this week as legislative remedies to the issue gain traction. “I appreciate Allyson and all the others who have contacted my office for sharing personal stories about how ObamaCare is affecting their families,” Rep. Roby said. “Specific examples of how this law is harming people in a real way allow me to be a more powerful voice for positive change in Congress. I encourage anyone who hasn’t shared their story to go online and submit it. “I believe a majority of Republicans and Democrats support commonsense changes to the law, but we are fighting an uphill battle because this is President Obama’s signature law. The more real-world stories like Allyson’s we can share, the better we can demonstrate on a national level the compelling need to offer Americans relief from this law.” Despite President Obama’s well-publicized promise of “if you like your health plan, you will be able to keep your health plan,” thousands in Alabama and millions across the country are facing health insurance cancellations or skyrocketing costs. Rep. Roby is co-sponsoring the “Keep Your Health Plan Act,” which would ensure individual policy holders who like their healthcare plans are truly allowed to keep them. Simila…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://roby.house.gov/press-release/roby-op-ed-hold-president-his-vow	Roby Op-Ed: Hold the president to his vow	2013-11-12	2013	2013-11	Republican	House	AL	Martha Roby	R000591	roby.house.gov	legacy	Remember when President Obama said over and over again that if you like your health care plan, you will be able to keep your health care plan? Well, it turns out that wasn’t true, as thousands of Alabamians and millions across the country are facing health insurance cancellations or skyrocketing costs. To make matters worse, the disastrous roll out of the Obamacare website has made it nearly impossible for those affected to search for alternatives. I don’t know why the president repeatedly misled the country about the true implications of his healthcare law. This is the kind of Washington political doublespeak people are so fed up with — and this time it is hurting people in a very real way. We have to do more than complain about it. My responsibility as a member of Congress is to make it right by acting to protect Americans from these rate hikes and plan cancellations. That’s why I’m co-sponsoring the “Keep Your Health Plan Act,” which will allow health care plans currently being offered to continue next year, just like the president promised. The bill also ensures that Americans choosing to maintain their health plans will not face a tax penalty under Obamacare. The “Keep Your Health Plan Act” won’t fix every problem with Obamacare, but it will offer real choices and peace of mind to Americans affected by these changes. Time is of the essence, and I’m optimistic Congress will take this bill up as soon as this week. There is talk of similar legislation in the Senate. House and Senate members from both parties recognize the basic unfairness that has occurred here, and good faith efforts to remedy the situation are underway. However, even though Republicans and Democrats support fixing this problem, we are fighting an uphill battle because this is President Obama’s signature law. That’s why I need your help. I’m asking Alabamians who have been impacted by Obamacare to share their stories. If your rates increased, if the plan you like got cancelled or altered, if you won’t be able to see your doctor, tell me about …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z

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   [date] TEXT,
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Press releases

590 rows where state = "AL" and year = 2013 sorted by date descending

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