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611 rows where state = "KS" and year = 2017 sorted by date descending

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  • 2017 · 611 ✖

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  • KS · 611 ✖

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  • House 611
url title date ▲ year month party chamber state member_name bioguide_id domain scraper source date_source text has_text collected_at updated_at
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2017/12/edwards-county-listening-tour-kinsley Edwards County Listening Tour, Kinsley 2017-12-29 2017 2017-12 Republican House KS Jerry Moran M000934 www.moran.senate.gov     legacy Tour Stops Home Kansas Kansas Listening Tour Tour Stops EDWARDS COUNTYFriday, December 29 at 11:30 a.m.Kinsley Drug CompanyKinsley 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2017/12/edwards-county-listening-tour-stop Edwards County Listening Tour, Kinsley 2017-12-29 2017 2017-12 Republican House KS Jerry Moran M000934 www.moran.senate.gov     legacy   0 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2017/12/kiowa-county-listening-tour-greensburg Kiowa County Listening Tour, Greensburg 2017-12-29 2017 2017-12 Republican House KS Jerry Moran M000934 www.moran.senate.gov     legacy Tour Stops Home Kansas Kansas Listening Tour Tour Stops KIOWA COUNTYFriday, December 29 at 1:15 p.m.City Council ChambersGreensburg 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2017/12/kiowa-county-listening-tour-stop-greensburg Kiowa County Listening Tour, Greensburg 2017-12-29 2017 2017-12 Republican House KS Jerry Moran M000934 www.moran.senate.gov     legacy   0 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2017/12/jewell-county-listening-tour-mankato Jewell County Listening Tour, Mankato 2017-12-28 2017 2017-12 Republican House KS Jerry Moran M000934 www.moran.senate.gov     legacy Tour Stops Home Kansas Kansas Listening Tour Tour Stops JEWELL COUNTYThursday, December 28Mankato City LibraryMankato 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2017/12/jewell-county-listening-tour-stop Jewell County Listening Tour, Mankato 2017-12-28 2017 2017-12 Republican House KS Jerry Moran M000934 www.moran.senate.gov     legacy   0 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2017/12/smith-county-listening-tour-smith-center Smith County Listening Tour, Smith Center 2017-12-28 2017 2017-12 Republican House KS Jerry Moran M000934 www.moran.senate.gov     legacy Tour Stops Home Kansas Kansas Listening Tour Tour Stops SMITH COUNTYThursday, December 28 at 4 p.m.Smith County CourthouseSmith Center 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2017/12/smith-county-listening-tour-stop-smith-center Smith County Listening Tour, Smith Center 2017-12-28 2017 2017-12 Republican House KS Jerry Moran M000934 www.moran.senate.gov     legacy   0 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2017/12/ksnt-moran-visits-local-hospital-discusses-chip KSNT: Moran visits local hospital, discusses CHIP 2017-12-27 2017 2017-12 Republican House KS Jerry Moran M000934 www.moran.senate.gov     legacy KSNT Courtney Ryan TOPEKA, Kan. (KSNT) U.S. Senator Jerry Moran is back in Kansas while Congress is on the holiday break. On Wednesday, Moran visited the University of Kansas Health System St. Francis Campus. How we deliver healthcare in Kansas determines a lot of about the future of our state, Moran said. Moran saidwhen he returns to D.C. hell continue to push Congress to find a long-termfunding solution for the CHIP program. CHIP is insurance forchildren whose parents dont qualify for Medicaid, but cant afford private health insurance.Kansas has enough money to fund the program through March. So we get ride of the uncertainty, no family oughtto be worried whether CHIP is going to be available for their children, said Moran. When it comes to theGOP tax plan, which mirrors part of the 2012 Kansas tax plan,Moran explained its effects areexcepted to bedifferent because the U.S. economy is better. What were after and what every city in Kansas and what every citizen of our country needs are more jobs, better paying jobs higher paying jobs, more secure jobs, and jump starting the economy can be so beneficial to so many people, he said. However,the Kansas Democratic Party doesnt agree. This essentially re-runs the same things that Governor Brownback tried and we know in Kansas it just hasnt worked. So there is very little reason to believe that itll work on the federal level, said Ethan Corson, the executive director for the Kansas Democratic Party. Moran also addressed the hold-up with Gov. Sam Brownbacks nomination to serve as Ambassador at-large for International ReligiousFreedom. Part of this has been the slowness of democrats in-particular to approve nominations generally, said Moran.I dont think there is any question about what he would be confirmed, but the process can take longer unless there cooperation from all Senators. Moran addedwhen the Senate gets back to work in 2018 one of the top priorities is finding a way to fund the federal government. Click here to read more. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2017/12/kansas-farmer-kansas-legislators-introduce-bills-reforming-livestock-disaster-aid Kansas Farmer: Kansas legislators introduce bills reforming livestock disaster aid 2017-12-22 2017 2017-12 Republican House KS Jerry Moran M000934 www.moran.senate.gov     legacy Kansas Farmer P. J. GriekspoorThe agricultural disasters of 2017 hit the livestock sector particularly hard. Hurricanes, tornadoes, floods and wildfires left thousands of head of livestock injured or dead, destroyed miles of fences and outbuildings, and wiped out stored hay and feed. Kansas was hit particularly hard in March of 2017 when the Starbuck Fire, the largest wildfire in the history of the state, burned more than 600,000 acres in Clark and Comanche counties. Two other fires in Oklahoma burned an additional 200,000 acres the same day. The disaster occurred almost exactly one year after the Anderson Creek wildfire burned almost 400,000 acres, the largest wildfire in the state to that point.In the wake of those fires, Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kan., and Rep. Roger Marshall, R-Kan., have introduced legislation to improve and reform the livestock disaster programs Kansas farmers and ranchers rely on in times of natural disaster. The legislation includes four bills to make changes to the USDAs Farm Service Agencys Livestock Indemnity Program (LIP) and Emergency Conservation Program (ECP) based on feedback from Kansas farmers and ranchers.Both the Livestock Indemnity Program and the Emergency Conservation Program were first authorized in the 2008 Farm Bill and made indefinite in the 2014 Farm Bill. Introducing reforms to them as free-standing legislation could bring much-needed help to farmers more quickly than waiting for it to come through changes to the title in the 2018 Farm Bill. It could also potentially make the appropriation for them part of disaster aid in an omnibus spending bill, rather than having to pay for them from a stagnant farm bill budget. That has been done before when times are tough in ag, says Roger McEowen, Farm Bureau professor of law at Washburn University. Getting additional funding in the 2018 Farm Bill could be difficult, given that other programs that include ag research and more help for cotton and dairy producers are also looking for money, and funding is likely to be stagnant. In c… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2017/12/mcpherson-sentinel-kansas-lawmakers-help-send-tax-bill-to-trump-s-desk McPherson Sentinel: Kansas lawmakers help send tax bill to Trumps desk 2017-12-22 2017 2017-12 Republican House KS Jerry Moran M000934 www.moran.senate.gov     legacy McPherson Sentinel U.S. Sens. Jerry Moran and Pat Roberts hailed final passage Wednesday of the sweeping rewrite of federal tax law that lowers individual rates and sharply reduces the corporate rate to provide a climate Kansas Republicans predict will inspire job creation. The House first approved a $1.4 trillion package Tuesday, but had to vote again Wednesday after the Senate made adjustments Tuesday night to the bill analysts expect to bloat the federal deficit by more than $1 trillion over the next decade. Moran said lowering individual tax rates, increasing standard deductions and expanding the child tax credit would benefit lower-income families. The Senate vote was 51-48, while the final vote in the House was 224-201. President Donald Trump pledged to sign the legislation. Roberts, who serves on the Senate Finance Committee, said lawmakers embraced much-needed tax relief to families and reset the business climate to promote job formation.Roberts said he was pleased the bill included repeal of the Affordable Care Act penalty on individuals who declined to obtain health insurance. Congressional Democrats attacked the bill by accusing the GOP of backing legislation that provided permanent tax reductions to corporations but temporary cuts for individual taxpayers. Democrats criticized the rushed process leading to adoption of the bill. Click here to read more. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2017/12/senate-passes-moran-legislation-to-honor-fallen-educators Senate Passes Moran Legislation to Honor Fallen Educators 2017-12-22 2017 2017-12 Republican House KS Jerry Moran M000934 www.moran.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) applauded the Senates passage of S. 167 legislation to designate the Memorial to Fallen Educators at Emporia State University (ESU) as a national memorial. Sen. Moran introduced this legislation in January of this year. Our countrys educators play an integral role in shaping the next generations of Americans, and their hard work and dedication to their students too often goes unrecognized, said Sen. Moran. The Memorial to Fallen Educators, which is located on the Emporia State University campus, commemorates the sacrifices made by educators who have lost their lives while performing their jobs. The Senates passage of my legislation to give the memorial status as a National Memorial will make certain it continues to recognize fallen educators whose passion and commitment to their students have benefitted us all. The ESU Campus is home to the Memorial to Fallen Educators in conjunction with the National Teacher Hall of Fame (NTHF). The memorial lists the names of educators since 1764 who have lost their lives around the nation while working with students. The memorial, which was dedicated in June 2014, is built and paid for. Sen. Morans legislation carries no cost to taxpayers, instead directing that the memorial continue to be owned and cared for by the NTHF and ESU, with private funds used for maintenance, while also having the prestige of a national memorial. Click here to read the full text of the legislation. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2017/12/the-topeka-capital-journal The Topeka Capital-Journal: Emporia State Universitys memorial to fallen educators a step closer to national designation 2017-12-22 2017 2017-12 Republican House KS Jerry Moran M000934 www.moran.senate.gov     legacy The Topeka Capital-Journal By Tim CarpenterU.S. Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kan., said colleagues in the Senate agreed to designate the monument at Emporia State University paying tribute to educators who lost their lives while working with students as a national memorial. The Memorial to Fallen Educators would secure federal recognition if the U.S. House adopted complementary legislation filed by U.S. Rep. Roger Marshall, R-Kan., in May. The ESU memorial was placed on campus in conjunction with the National Teacher Hall of Fame. Under the federal designation, the memorial would remain in ESUs hands. It wouldnt be in the National Park System or require federal funding. Our countrys educators play an integral role in shaping the next generations of Americans, and their hard work and dedication to their students too often goes unrecognized, Moran said Friday in a statement. The Senates passage of my legislation to give the memorial status as a national memorial will make certain it continues to recognize fallen educators whose passion and commitment to their students have benefited us all. The memorial lists names of U.S. educators since 1764 who died while performing their job. ESU President Allison Garrett said the university was appreciative Morans advocacy moved the memorial closer to national status. We are delighted the Senate has taken action to honor educators who have lost their lives while working with students, Garrett said. The memorial was dedicated in 2014 to honor fallen educators who taught at the preschool to 12th-grade levels. The National Teacher Hall of Fame board decided in 2015 to expand eligibility to college and university faculty. Click here to read more. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=328 DHS Suspends Chemical Testing 2017-12-21 2017 2017-12 Republican House KS Ron Estes E000298 estes.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTONCongressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas) issued the following statement following the Department of Homeland Security's announcement to suspend chemical testing at the Chilocco Indian School: "The Department of Homeland Security has suspended plans for chemical testing at Chilocco Indian School in northern Oklahoma. The safety of south central Kansans has been my priority during this process, and I commend the Department of Homeland Security for listening to our concerns." Ron Estes is a 5th generation Kansan and represents Kansas 4th congressional district in the U.S. House of Representatives. He serves on the House Committee on Education and the Workforce, and the House Committee on Homeland Security. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2017/12/sen-moran-applauds-confirmation-of-stephen-mcallister-as-united-states-attorney-for-the-district-of-kansas Sen. Moran Applauds Confirmation of Stephen McAllister as United States Attorney for the District of Kansas 2017-12-21 2017 2017-12 Republican House KS Jerry Moran M000934 www.moran.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) applauded the confirmation of Stephen McAllister of Lawrence, Kan. as the United States Attorney for the District of Kansas. I am pleased the Senate unanimously confirmed Professor McAllisters nomination, said Sen. Moran. I have known Mr. McAllister for years, as he grew up in Lucas down the road from my hometown. He is a bright legal mind and his litigation experience will serve him well as U.S. Attorney for the District of Kansas. He is a veteran litigator with a distinguished career in private practice and as the Solicitor General of Kansas, in addition to serving as a law professor at the University of Kansas. In addition, Mr. McAllister had the honor of clerking for Supreme Court Justices Byron White and Clarence Thomas. McAllister, a University of Kansas School of Law graduate, will serve as the chief federal law enforcement officer in the state of Kansas by representing the federal government in civil and criminal matters before federal courts of his jurisdiction. In addition, the United States Attorney also takes a key leadership role in coordinating law enforcement activities and training. # # # 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2017/12/sen-moran-statement-on-dhs-decision-to-suspend-plans-for-chemical-test-near-ark-city Sen. Moran Statement on DHS Decision to Suspend Plans for Chemical Test Near Ark City 2017-12-21 2017 2017-12 Republican House KS Jerry Moran M000934 www.moran.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) today released the following statement regarding the Department of Homeland Securitys (DHS) decision to suspend plans to conduct chemical and biological tests in Oklahoma: I am pleased that the Department of Homeland Security listened to the concerns of Kansans and made the decision to suspend its plans to conduct chemical and biological tests near the Kansas border. Prior to any sort of chemical testing hazardous or not the federal government must make certain local residents understand its intended objective when it conducts any testing of this nature. While the chemicals DHS planned to use in these tests do not pose any bodily harm, Kansans deserve a thorough explanation when an event of this magnitude is occurring so close to where they live and raise their families. Items to Note: In October, the Department of Homeland Security announced its intent to perform a collaborative scientific study with OSU-University Multispectral Laboratories, LLC (UML) that will include low level outdoor release of inert chemicals and biological simulant materials at the Chilocco (former) Indian School Campus outside of Newkirk, OK, during winter 2018 and again in summer 2018, according to the Draft Environmental Assessment for Proposed Outdoor Testing at Chilocco. In November, Sen. Moran called on DHS to halt its plans to conduct these chemical tests until it sent department representatives to Kansas to explain the departments proposed course of action. The 30-day comment period regarding this proposal opened Nov. 8 and closed Dec. 8. # # # 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.roberts.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?p=PressReleases&ContentRecord_id=3CBBA56D-93DC-417D-B5D8-1EBEC97E3332 Roberts, Jenkins: Sen. Bob Doles Congressional Gold Medal Ceremony to Take Place Jan. 17 2017-12-21 2017 2017-12 Republican House KS Pat Roberts R000307 www.roberts.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC U.S. Sen. Pat Roberts (R-Kan.) and U.S. Rep. Lynn Jenkins (R-Kan.) today applauded House and Senate Leaderships decision to set the ceremony to award former Kansas U.S. Senator Robert J. Dole with the Congressional Gold Medal on January 17, 2018, at 3:00 p.m. ET in the Capitol Rotunda. Roberts and Jenkins introduced the original legislation in the Senate and the House to honor Dole with this award. After securing the cosponsorship of nearly all members of both chambers, it was signed into law on September 15. I am so proud we can finally honor Senator Dole with this much-deserved award, said Sen. Roberts. The Congressional Gold Medal is one of our nations highest honors, and the overwhelming support this bill received shows how just how much Bob deserves this award. He is a true American hero who has dedicated his life to serving our nation and great state of Kansas. I thank Rep. Jenkins for her leadership in the House, and I look forward to honoring my good friend, mentor, and brother Senator Bob Dole this January. It has been a privilege to work with Sen. Roberts on legislation to honor my close friend and mentor, Sen. Bob Dole, said Rep. Jenkins. From my days as a kid wearing a sandwich board in support of his campaigns for the Senate, to the counsel he provided throughout my time in public service, Bob Dole has meant a lot to me and to all Kansans who know him. Throughout Senator Doles life, he has consistently exemplified humility, hard work, and leadership, and I could not be more proud to recognize him for this service. The Bob Dole Congressional Gold Medal Act, was introduced on July 24, 2017. It passed the Senate on August 3, 2017, with every single U.S. Senator cosponsoring the legislation. It passed the House on September 5, 2017. The Congressional Gold Medal is in recognition for his service to the nation as a soldier, legislator and statesman. It is the highest expression of national appreciation for distinguished achievements and contributions. It is the most distinguished honor… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://yoder.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/yoder-statement-on-passage-of-tax-cuts-and-jobs-act-0 Yoder Statement on Passage of Tax Cuts and Jobs Act 2017-12-21 2017 2017-12 Republican House KS Kevin Yoder Y000063 yoder.house.gov     legacy Washington, DC This afternoon, the House of Representatives voted to send the conference committee agreement on the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act to the Presidents desk by a vote of 227-203. Representative Kevin Yoder (R-KS) issued the following statement after voting in favor of the bill: Today, the House of Representatives passed generational reforms that will reduce the tax burden for hardworking families across America. This was a vote to give relief to the 75 percent of Americans currently living paycheck to paycheck who have been suffering from a stifling economic anxiety and little to no wage growth over the last eight years. Todays vote was a vote for every family, every single mom, every entrepreneur, and every student fighting to climb up the economic ladder and achieve the American Dream. The typical middle class family will see a tax cut of $2,059 under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. On top of that, the typical middle class family in Kansas will see an increase in after-tax income by $2,500 meaning theyll finally get that pay raise theyve been hoping for the last decade. We do it primarily by making three vital changes to our tax code. We double the standard deduction, making the first $24,000 of a familys income tax-free. We double the child tax credit to $2,000 and make it refundable, allowing low-income families to reduce their payroll tax burden. And we lower tax rates for all Americans. The facts show that relief is specifically targeted to middle and low-income Americans, fulfilling our promise to lower the tax burden for those who need it the most. Analysis from the Joint Committee on Taxation shows that those making between $20,000 and $30,000 per year will see the largest percentage tax cut under our bill. In Congress, its a fight between those who demand higher taxes and more spending in Washington and those who want to return tax dollars to the hardworking Americans who earned them. Today, the Washington bureaucrats lost and the American people won. In addition to voting for the legislation, Represent… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://marshall.house.gov/media/press-releases/epa-announces-next-step-sorghum-oil-pathways EPA Announces Next Step For Sorghum Oil Pathways 2017-12-20 2017 2017-12 Republican House KS Roger Marshall M001198 marshall.house.gov     legacy (WASHINGTON, D.C.)- Today the EPA announced that they are taking a positive step forward on creating an RFS pathway for sorghum biofuel production with their decision to provide a federal comment period. This recognition by the EPA is exciting news for sorghum and biofuel producers in Kansas's first district. This past spring, Rep. Marshall co-lead a bipartisan, bicameral letter with Senator Moran to EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt in support of the pathway for sorghum oil. Congressman Marshall, M.D., issued the following statement in response to the EPA's announcement: Im pleased to see that the EPA has completed their review of the Grain Sorghum Oil Pathway and published the 'notice-and-comment-period' in the federal register. After meeting with the EPA staff this past spring, it was clear to me that a pathway for Sorghum is necessary for our Kansas sorghum producers, biofuels plants, and the environment. As our Kansas farmers continue to face decade-low grain prices, we must ensure that federal policy encourages new markets for grain and related products. I would especially like to thank Administrator Pruitt and his staff for moving this approval process to the next step. I look forward to seeing the positive impact this pathway will have in the Kansas First District. The Federal Register Notice:HERE Rep. Marshall's Letter to the EPA:HERE #### Contact:Charyssa Parent,Press Secretary Phone: (202) 420-8528 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2017/12/sen-moran-statement-on-passage-of-tax-reform Sen. Moran Statement on Passage of Tax Reform 2017-12-20 2017 2017-12 Republican House KS Jerry Moran M000934 www.moran.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) today released the following statement after Congress passed the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act Conference Report: Today, Congress sent a pro-growth tax reform bill to the presidents desk that works for Kansas families and businesses. By lowering the corporate tax rate, businesses will be encouraged to stay and grow in America, fostering an environment for businesses to create more jobs, better jobs and higher-paying jobs. These jobs and increased paychecks will have a positive impact on middle-class and lower-income families. Additionally, by lowering tax rates across the board, significantly increasing the standard deduction and doubling the child tax credit, Kansas families and individuals will be able to keep more of their earnings and save for the future. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act*: Provides the typical family of four earning the median family income of $73,000 a tax cut of $2,059 Significantly increases the standard deduction to roughly double the amount of what individuals earn each year from taxes from $6,500 and $13,000 under current law to $12,000 and $24,000 for individuals and married couples, respectively Doubles the Child Tax Credit from $1,000 to $2,000 for single filers and married couples to help parents with the cost of raising children Preserves the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit to help families care for their children and older dependents, such as a disabled grandparent who may need additional support. In addition, it preserves the Adoption Tax Credit so parents can continue to receive additional tax relief as they open their hearts and homes to an adopted child Expands the medical expense deduction for 2017 and 2018 medical expenses exceeding 7.5 percent of adjusted gross income, and rising to 10 percent beginning in 2019 Preserves additional important elements of the existing individual tax system, including: Maintaining the Earned Income Tax Credit to provide important tax relief for low-income Americans working to build better lives fo… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.roberts.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?p=PressReleases&ContentRecord_id=58D94B04-3288-4BDA-96F2-7817F864C4DF Roberts Statement on Senate Passage of Historic Tax Reform 2017-12-20 2017 2017-12 Republican House KS Pat Roberts R000307 www.roberts.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC U.S. Sen. Pat Roberts (R-Kan.), a senior member of the Senate Finance Committee, today voted in favor of final Senate passage ofhistoric tax reform legislation, released by the House and Senate conference committee, saying the bill will provide much-needed tax relief tomiddle-income Americans and will create economic growth and new jobs.The legislation will now go back to the House before heading to the presidents desk for signature. This historic legislation impacts every single American, said Roberts. We have worked together to provide meaningful relief for taxpayers, taking money out of Washington and allowing Americans to keep more of their hard-earned dollars. This bill will give our economy the boost it needs to create more jobs at higher wages, make American companies more competitive, and keep jobs here at home. There is widespread, bipartisan agreement on the need for a fairer, simpler tax code, and this bill does just that. I am so proud to have served on the tax-writing committee and played a role in ensuring this bill lowers taxes for Kansans, creates more fairness in our tax code, and unwinds the burdensome regulatory overkill. For policy highlights of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, go here. For the full text of the bill, go here. The Senate passed its own version of the bill in November. Prior to passage of that legislation, Roberts spoke on the Senate floor saying, We have proven that we can act decisively to grow our economy, help those living paycheck to paycheck, create better opportunities with job creation and bring jobs back from overseas. To view or download that video, go here. Roberts also praised the provision that repeals Obamacares individual mandate tax penalty saying, There is no denying that Obamacare continues to collapse. This provision provides additional relief to low- and middle-income families and allows Americans more flexibility in choosing the health care that best suits them without a penalty from the federal government. Senate Finance Committee Chairman O… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://lynnjenkins.house.gov/press-releases/congresswoman-jenkins-floor-speech-on-the-tax-cuts-and-jobs-act/ Congresswoman Jenkins' Floor Speech on the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act 2017-12-19 2017 2017-12 Republican House KS Lynn Jenkins J000290 lynnjenkins.house.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. Today, the House of Representatives passed the conference report on H.R. 1 the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act with a vote of 227-203 which will reform our broken tax code. Congresswoman Lynn Jenkins (KS-02), a member of the Ways and Means Committee, made the following remarks on the House floor: (Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SlNlQB4QbZs) I thank the gentleman for yielding. I rise today to be a voice for Kansans who know our status quo tax code no longer works for them; they know it doesnt work when it favors special interests over individuals, or when it causes Kansas factories to close, sending those jobs to other countries. I rise today, because Kansans know that without rejuvenated and sustained economic growth, we will never find the money to pay down our nations debt. Thats why I strongly support H.R. 1 which will close special interest loopholes and lower rates for everyone. Not just the rich, not just the poor. Everyone. Individuals in my district will see immediate tax relief with the doubling of the standard deduction and child tax credit. We also lessen the financial burden of education by keeping important college tax provisions and expanding access to 529 savings plans. On average, a family of four in my district will see a tax cut of just over $2,300 because of this bill. A fair and simpler tax code means every hard working family will see the tax relief and economic growth this country rightfully deserves. Thank you, and I yield back. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://lynnjenkins.house.gov/press-releases/congresswoman-jenkins-floor-speech-on-the-tax-cuts-and-jobs-act2/ Congresswoman Jenkins' Floor Speech on the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act 2017-12-19 2017 2017-12 Republican House KS Lynn Jenkins J000290 lynnjenkins.house.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. Today, the House of Representatives passed the conference report on H.R. 1 the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act with a vote of 227-203 which will reform our broken tax code. Congresswoman Lynn Jenkins (KS-02), a member of the Ways and Means Committee, made the following remarks on the House floor: (Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SlNlQB4QbZs) I thank the gentleman for yielding. I rise today to be a voice for Kansans who know our status quo tax code no longer works for them; they know it doesnt work when it favors special interests over individuals, or when it causes Kansas factories to close, sending those jobs to other countries. I rise today, because Kansans know that without rejuvenated and sustained economic growth, we will never find the money to pay down our nations debt. Thats why I strongly support H.R. 1 which will close special interest loopholes and lower rates for everyone. Not just the rich, not just the poor. Everyone. Individuals in my district will see immediate tax relief with the doubling of the standard deduction and child tax credit. We also lessen the financial burden of education by keeping important college tax provisions and expanding access to 529 savings plans. On average, a family of four in my district will see a tax cut of just over $2,300 because of this bill. A fair and simpler tax code means every hard working family will see the tax relief and economic growth this country rightfully deserves. Thank you, and I yield back. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://marshall.house.gov/media/press-releases/tax-reform-delivers-kansas-congressman-marshall-house-passage-tax-cuts-jobs-act Tax Reform Delivers for Kansas 2017-12-19 2017 2017-12 Republican House KS Roger Marshall M001198 marshall.house.gov     legacy I believe Ronald Reagan would be proud of the work Congress has done on the Tax Cuts & Jobs Act. The truth is we are not the same country that we were 31 years ago. It is time to modernize our tax code to meet the challenges that we face today. I am proud to be a part of this historic solution that will provide relief for hard-working Kansans, families, and businesses. The Tax Cuts & Jobs Act allows Americans to keep their hard-earned income and ends costly penalties placed on individuals that do not wish to purchase Obamacare. This legislation provides rate reductions for every income level and doubles the standard deduction, which more than 80 percent of our neighbors use. I was sent to Washington, D.C. to fight for Kansas 1st Congressional District and make positive and lasting reforms. This legislation does just that. Under this tax bill,a family of four making the national median income of 70k will savemore than $2,000. The Tax Cuts & Jobs Act also expands the Child Tax Credit from $1,000 per child to $2,000. This bill is a culmination of multiple working drafts and months of collaboration with my colleagues, and I believe that it is an excellent step forward for Americans. I am proud of the final product, that prioritizes hard-working individuals, families and a healthier economy. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2017/12/kansas-common-sense-applauding-new-national-defense-law Kansas Common Sense - Advocating for Children's Health Insurance on the Senate Floor 2017-12-18 2017 2017-12 Republican House KS Jerry Moran M000934 www.moran.senate.gov     legacy Hello, Welcome to Kansas Common Sense. Thanks for your continued interest in receiving my weekly newsletter. Please feel free to forward it on to your family and friends if it would interest them. USA TODAY Op-Ed with Sen. McCainEarlier this month, I introduced legislation withSen. John McCain (R-Arizona)to transform theU.S. Department of Veterans Affairsinto a 21st century healthcare system that would increase veterans access to care. I encourage you to read more on our efforts in our jointUSA TODAYop-ed: Unlike other proposals, our legislation creates and specifies the tools the VA must use to reform health care rather than relying on the bureaucracy to determine the rules. We have learned over time that Congress must provide clear direction and guidance to the VA toprevent inconsistent experiences, enhance veterans quality of life, and achieve better health outcomes Today, the VA is in need of another major reform and we have the opportunity to deliver real transformation. Legislation to Support our National Defense Signed Into LawThis week, I was pleased that the President signed the FY2018 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) into law. The NDAA provides members of our United States Armed Forces with the support they need to protect our nation, and this years NDAA includes legislative measures that I led in the Senate, particularly the Gary Deloney and John Olsen Toxic Exposure Declassification Act. This legislation, which is named after a Fort Scott veteran, would make certain veterans have access to military records regarding their exposure to toxic substances and requires the Department of Defense to declassify documents that relate to incidents where servicemembers were exposed to a toxic substance that later had a damaging effect on their health. Often, the impacts of toxic exposure dont appear until long after servicemembers have returned home from the battlefield and military records are filed away giving our veterans access to their classified military records to prove exposure is the least we c… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2017/12/sens-moran-manchin-call-for-bipartisan-legislative-solution-to-protect-free-and-open-internet-promote-rural-broadband-access Sens. Moran, Manchin Call for Bipartisan Legislative Solution to Protect Free and Open Internet, Promote Rural Broadband Access 2017-12-18 2017 2017-12 Republican House KS Jerry Moran M000934 www.moran.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON U.S. Senators Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) Chairman of the Commerce Subcommittee on Consumer Protection, Product Safety, Insurance, and Data Security and Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) today issued the following statement: As senators who have been working to close the digital divide, we believe federal policy must continue to promote the expansion of broadband access across rural America. Consumers and innovators deserve clear rules of the road that will continue to ensure the internet remains an open marketplace, will drive our online economy and will support investment throughout our internet ecosystem. To that end, we agree with the calls of Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee Chairman Thune and our colleagues on both sides of the aisle that we must find bipartisan consensus that codifies strong net neutrality protections and conclusively resolves this debate. Consumers want an internet that is free of content-based discrimination and supports the deployment of reliable, affordable broadband access throughout the country. Congress enshrining net neutrality protections based on clear and certain rules into law is necessary to guarantee the internet remains free and open. # # # 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2017/12/news-press-now-moran-calls-for-movement-on-chip-funding KTVQ: Military records will help doctors treat Billings veteran 2017-12-17 2017 2017-12 Republican House KS Jerry Moran M000934 www.moran.senate.gov     legacy KTVQ By David Jay After 17 years, a Billings veteran will get some information that will help him and others involved in biological weapons testing as part of Project SHAD during the Vietnam war era. The bi-partisan legislation was signed by the President on Tuesday, after passingwith the help of Sen. Jon Tester, D-Mont., and Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kan. President Trump signed a bill containing the Gary Deloney and John Olsen Toxic Exposure Declassification Act." Its very satisfying, said John Olsen, a U.S. Navy vet. Its been a long haul. A long haul. Olsen started asking in the year 2000 for records that would help doctors treat him. He says his 35 to 40 diseases and ailments came after exposure to biological and chemical weapons on tugboats near Johnson Island, 1,000 miles southwest of Hawaii in 1965. I dont know for sure because my medical records are locked up, he said about the causes for his health issues. Olson said he may have been exposed to 18 biological weapons and has received limited information. The two on the data sheets are Serratia marcescens and Tularamia, which is rabbit fever, he said. After the tests, they used chemicals to clean up the biological weapons. Beta-Propiolactone and formaldehyde, Olsen said. We were using it by the gallon, When you clean something up so good that theres nothing left in there, no living item at all, thats the way we left it. While doctors can better help him if they know the weapons and chemicals, Olsen understands why they needed to keep the information classified. Been a lot of military secrets we wanted to keep, even those of us who were out there, he said. The details I dont know. I doubt if I ever will. Id like to, but its not going to make or break me. Former Rep. Denny Rehberg, R-Mont., was involved with trying to pass some bi-partisan legislation as far back as 2004. Olsen said he expects that his co-pays will be reimbursed soon. As for the records, he says it may take as long as six months. Click hereto read more. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://lynnjenkins.house.gov/press-releases/congresswoman-jenkins-statement-on-the-tax-conference-committee-report/ Congresswoman Jenkins' Statement on the Tax Conference Committee Report 2017-12-15 2017 2017-12 Republican House KS Lynn Jenkins J000290 lynnjenkins.house.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. Congresswoman Lynn Jenkins (KS-02), a member of the Ways and Means Committee that helped craft the House tax bill released the following statement regarding the Tax Conference Committee report: Since coming to Congress, my top priority has continued to be tax reform and today we are one step closer to monumental reform legislation which will jumpstart the economy and put hard-earned dollars back in the pockets of middle-class Kansans. This legislation will double the standard deduction and the Child Tax Credit to help make it just a little bit easier to raise and take care of a family. To help with the rising cost of college, tuition assistance deductions are maintained, and 529 programs are strengthened giving parents more flexibility in planning for the expense of college. Altogether, a middle-income family of four in the 2nd district would get an average tax cut of more than $1,800. Achieving this once-in-a-generation overhaul of our tax code, makes it fairer and simpler for middle-class families to file their taxes and implements important safeguards to minimize tax avoidance while making our job creators competitive in the global marketplace- unleashing the economic growth this country rightfully deserves." 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2017/12/health-care-for-veterans-needs-another-big-fix-mccain-and-moran Health care for veterans needs another big fix: Sens. Moran and McCain 2017-12-15 2017 2017-12 Republican House KS Jerry Moran M000934 www.moran.senate.gov     legacy More than a century ago, President Abraham Lincoln signed a law establishing a new agency dedicated to the support of our Civil War veterans. Its mission was "to care for him who shall have borne the battle, and for his widow, and his orphan." Today, our Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) provides essential services to 22 million Americans who have served in the armed forces. All Americans are indebted to our veterans for the enormous sacrifices they have made on our behalf. These men and women took an oath to defend the Constitution and served dutifully to preserve our way of life. Like their valiant forebears who humbled dictators and liberated millions from oppression, they exemplify what is best in our country. Regrettably, the VA has at times struggled to uphold its obligations to our veterans. In 2014, our country was shocked to learn that thousands of veterans were denied care or experienced unconscionable delays in treatment at the Phoenix VA. Dozens of those veterans died while waiting for care. Unfortunately, this wrongdoing was not confined to Phoenix. The VA Office of Inspector General has completed at least 100 criminal investigations related to wait-time manipulation at VA facilities nationwide. In the wake of that scandal, Congress gave veterans the freedom to receive medical care from providers in their local communities through the Veterans Choice Program. The program was intended to make certain that veterans would never again be forced to wait in long lines or drive hundreds of miles to access care they deserve. Demand for Choice has since grown considerably; more than a million veterans are receiving care closer to home, through millions of appointments with community providers. From the programs inception, however, we emphasized that Choice was only the first step toward broader reform of veterans health care. Thats why we have introduced legislation that incorporates lessons learned from Choice to transform the VA into a modern, high-performing and integrated health care system that will im… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.roberts.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?p=PressReleases&ContentRecord_id=66BEEB83-EB44-4DC4-8DF4-A36A0E98E7F3 Senator Roberts: Tax Reform Will Bring Relief and Opportunity to Middle Income Taxpayers 2017-12-15 2017 2017-12 Republican House KS Pat Roberts R000307 www.roberts.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON,DC U.S. Sen. Pat Roberts (R-Kan.), a senior member of the Senate Finance Committee,today said the tax reform legislation released by the House and Senate conference committee will provide tax relief for middle income Americans creating economic growth and new jobs. Kansans want to keep more of their hard earned dollars, said Roberts. In this conference report, every income level will experience tax relief. I am especially pleased with the provisions for small businesses which will alsohelp farmers and ranchers. All of us want our economy to improve and expand. I hope the Senate will approve these long overdue reforms and send them to the president to be signed into law so that Americans may have an extra special holiday this year." The conference report includes legislation crafted by Senator Roberts that would simplify accounting rules and reform key parts of the tax code to help small and medium-sized business owners, including farmers and ranchers, more quickly recover investment costs and certain other tax deductible business expenses. These provisions would encourage new business growth and help existing businesses, including farms and ranches, expand their operations, create new jobs, and grow the economy. Senator Roberts was also successful in including provisions in the final bill that would protect the property and casualty insurance industry from higher tax burdens. These insurers are important to the agricultural industry, because they are the primary providers of crop insurance, which is an essential risk management tool for production agriculture. Roberts efforts prevented new taxes on the industry, which would have been passed on to farmers and ranchers at a time when they are facing reduced commodity prices. Both the Senate and the House must approve the report before the president may sign it into law. Senator Roberts also serves as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.roberts.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?p=PressReleases&ContentRecord_id=4BFFD375-DCE8-4312-A065-F581FD08C093 Chairman Roberts Emphasizes Importance of Agriculture Security 2017-12-13 2017 2017-12 Republican House KS Pat Roberts R000307 www.roberts.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Pat Roberts, R-Kan., Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, today held an agriculture security hearing, titled, “Safeguarding American Agriculture in a Globalized World.” “In 1999, as Chairman of the newly-formed Emerging Threats Subcommittee of the Senate Armed Services Committee, I became aware of the threat our nation faced against intentionally introduced pathogens to be weaponized and aimed at destroying plant and animal populations.” “Biological threats, whether naturally occurring, like the avian influenza outbreak of 2015, or intentionally introduced, could pose great harm to our food supply and economy.” “Today’s hearing is an opportunity to take stock in where we have come, since the early 2000s when the issue of agriculture security was first visited, and discuss where we need to go from here. The Agriculture Committee last held a hearing on this subject over a decade ago, but since that time the significance of this issue has only grown.” During the hearing, Roberts examined the vulnerabilities of American farmers, ranchers, consumers, and economy from biological threats, as well as solutions to safeguard American agriculture from these threats. Click here to watch Chairman Roberts' opening statement. Below are Chairman Roberts’ remarks as prepared for delivery: Good morning. I call this meeting of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry to order. I welcome my colleagues, and the witnesses before us today, as we hear about an issue I have long felt is of the utmost importance, not only to farmers, ranchers and the agricultural value chain, but also to consumers, the American economy and the safety of our country. Agriculture security is a broad reaching issue and involves many government agencies, beyond the Department of Agriculture. In 1999, as Chairman of the newly-formed Emerging Threats Subcommittee of the Senate Armed Services Committee, I became aware of the threat our nation faced against inte… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.roberts.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?p=PressReleases&ContentRecord_id=C2DB267D-F3F6-4F10-87B6-46FD126C226D Senator Roberts & K-State Pres. Gen. Myers Look Ahead to Safeguard Agriculture 2017-12-13 2017 2017-12 Republican House KS Pat Roberts R000307 www.roberts.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC – With Kansas State University President General Richard Myers’ critical testimony on the remaining challenges to agriculture security before the U.S. Senate Agriculture Committee, U.S. Sen. Pat Roberts (R-Kan.) today said the nation must continue to be vigilant against threats to American agriculture and may address improvements to security as part of the next Farm Bill. “General Myers’ testimony before the Agriculture Committee today realizes the vision we had 18 years ago when then K-State President John Wefald testified before the Senate Emerging Threats Subcommittee, saying that our nation needed better agro-defense and that Kansas and K-State could step up to fulfill this role,” Roberts said. “Now today, just as we did then, we must continue to look ahead, invest in and evaluate measures to better protect our food supply, our economy and our public health.” Roberts, Chairman of the Senate Agriculture Committee, invited Myers to testify at a hearing titled: Safeguarding American Agriculture in a Globalized World. In his testimony, General Myers said, “Much must be done to safeguard American agriculture in a globalized world ¾ the U.S. agriculture and food critical infrastructure is not well protected from potentially catastrophic biological events.” To watch General Myers remarks, go here. Myers shared 13 specific recommendations to the committee, including adding additional security clearances, investing in workforce development, better coordination, improved intelligence and more strategic plans for research continuity. General Myers concluded his remarks saying, “Congress must enact enforceable statutes before it’s too late.” Roberts also invited former Sen. Joe Lieberman (D-Conn.), Co-Chair of the Blue Ribbon Study Panel on Biodefense, to testify. “The good news is that a national biodefense strategy is in the works and focusing on many of these issues,” Lieberman said. “This committee can help promote those efforts in the Farm Bill.” The Committee also heard from Dr. Doug Meckes, … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://yoder.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/yoder-fights-to-expand-educator-expense-deduction-in-the-final-tax-bill Yoder Fights to Expand Educator Expense Deduction in the Final Tax Bill 2017-12-13 2017 2017-12 Republican House KS Kevin Yoder Y000063 yoder.house.gov     legacy Washington, DC – Earlier today, Representative Kevin Yoder (R-KS) led a group of 12 Republican House members in sending a letter to the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act conference committee, calling for the doubling of the educator expense deduction in the final version of the tax reform legislation. The letter urges House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Kevin Brady, Senate Finance Committee Chairman Orrin Hatch, and the rest of the conference committee to adopt the Senate’s version of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act in regard to the educator expense deduction. The Senate’s plan would increase the deduction from $250 to $500 per year. Representative Yoder issued the following statement regarding his letter: “America’s teachers sacrifice their time, energy and personal finances every day to help our children learn and grow into our next generation of leaders. We've worked hard to produce tax legislation in the House that would give a typical Overland Park teacher a tax cut of about $1,800. But I've listened to many teachers and advocates who recognize the educator expense deduction as one small way to show teachers our appreciation for their hard work. This important deduction should remain in our tax code. "The best way to legislate in Congress is to work together, listen to our constituents, and take their concerns to Washington. That's what I'm doing here today with this letter to the conference committee. Ultimately, the goal of tax reform is to increase economic opportunity for hardworking Americans like our teachers, and we can do it in an even better way by expanding this deduction in addition to cutting their taxes."  The text of the letter is below: ### December 13, 2017 The Honorable Kevin Brady                                 The Honorable Orrin Hatch Chairman                                                               Chairman House Committee on Ways & Means                   Senate Committee on Finance 1102 Longworth House Office Building              219 Dirksen Senate Office Building Washington, … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://lynnjenkins.house.gov/press-releases/rep-jenkins-introduces-the-restoring-access-to-medication-act/ Rep. Jenkins Introduces the Restoring Access to Medication Act 2017-12-12 2017 2017-12 Republican House KS Lynn Jenkins J000290 lynnjenkins.house.gov     legacy Today, Congresswoman Lynn Jenkins (R-KS) introduced legislation that provides two-year relief from the tax on over-the-counter medications. Specifically, H.R. 4618 will give American’s relief from the Affordable Care Act’s restrictions on the use the funds in their Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) to purchase over-the-counter (OTC) medication. “Health Savings Accounts and Flexible Spending Accounts are the bedrock of consumer choice,” said Congresswoman Lynn Jenkins.  “They allow individuals to spend their healthcare dollars towards the specific needs of their families. This legislation would remove Obamacare’s harmful prohibition on the use of HSAs and FSAs for basic, over-the-counter needs of thousands of Kansans. I look forward to continuing to work on the Ways and Means committee to provide meaningful, incremental improvements to our health care system.” The text of the legislation can be found here: https://waysandmeansforms.house.gov/uploadedfiles/hr4618.pdf 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2017/12/knss-u-s-sen-jerry-moran-ks-modernizing-government-technology KNSS: U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran (KS): Modernizing Government Technology 2017-12-12 2017 2017-12 Republican House KS Jerry Moran M000934 www.moran.senate.gov     legacy KNSSOn Tuesday, U.S. Senator Jerry Morans (R-Kan.) Modernizing Government Technology (MGT) Act was signed into law by President Trump as part of the conference report for the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for FY2018. This bipartisan legislation introduced along with U.S. Senator Tom Udall (D-N.M.) encourages federal agencies to cut wasteful spending and modernize government information technology (IT) and security. Sen. Moran released the following statement after the president signed the legislation into law: Today, the president signed into law landmark legislation to reduce wasteful government IT spending and strengthen our nations cybersecurity. I applaud the administration and my colleagues on both sides of the aisle for their tireless work to get this legislation signed into law and to bring our inefficient, outdated federal IT system into the 21st century. The improved efficiencies from the MGT Act will empower agencies to modernize their legacy IT systems, better protect our data from cyber-attacks and ultimately save billions in taxpayer dollars by reducing long-term spending. The bill was supported by a number of IT industry stakeholders and trade associations, including the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the IT Alliance for the Public Sector (ITAPS), Professional Services Council (PSC), TechNet, Amazon Web Service, Cisco, Adobe, BMC, Brocade, Intel, Microsoft, Business Roundtable, CA Technologies, Compuware, CSRA, Level 3, Unisys and others. The MGT Act establishes IT working capital funds at two dozen federal government agencies, allowing them to use savings obtained through streamlining IT systems, replacing legacy products and transitioning to cloud computing for up to three years for further modernization efforts. Nearly 75% of the $80 billion spent annually on federal IT systems is going toward maintaining and operating legacy IT rather than making lasting improvements. Click here to read more. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2017/12/sen-moran-s-modernizing-government-technology-mgt-act-signed-into-law Sen. Morans Modernizing Government Technology (MGT) Act Signed Into Law 2017-12-12 2017 2017-12 Republican House KS Jerry Moran M000934 www.moran.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Jerry Moran’s (R-Kan.) Modernizing Government Technology (MGT) Act was signed into law by President Trump as part of the conference report for the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for FY2018. In September, Sen. Moran successfully included the MGT Act as an amendment to the NDAA for FY2018. This bipartisan legislation – introduced along with U.S. Senator Tom Udall (D-N.M.) – will encourage federal agencies to cut wasteful spending and modernize government information technology (IT) and security. Sen. Moran released the following statement after the president signed the legislation into law: “Today, the president signed into law landmark legislation to reduce wasteful government IT spending and strengthen our nation’s cybersecurity. I applaud the administration and my colleagues on both sides of the aisle for their tireless work to get this legislation signed into law and to bring our inefficient, outdated federal IT system into the 21st century. The improved efficiencies from the MGT Act will empower agencies to modernize their legacy IT systems, better protect our data from cyber-attacks and ultimately save billions in taxpayer dollars by reducing long-term spending.” Items to Note: In September, the MGT Act cleared the Senate after Sen. Moran introduced the legislation as an amendment to the NDAA for FY2018. In November, the MGT Act was included in the final conference report for NDAA and was sent to the president’s desk for signature. In April, Sen. Moran and Sen. Udall – both members of the Senate Commerce and Appropriations Committees – introduced the Modernizing Government Technology (MGT) Act (S. 990/H.R. 2227) with the support of their colleagues Sen. Steve Daines (R-Mont.) and Sen. Mark Warner (D-Va.). U.S. Representatives Will Hurd (R-Texas) and Gerry Connolly (D-Va.) – chairman and member, respectively, of the House Subcommittee on Information Technology – introduced the House companion legislation. The bill is supported by a number of IT industry stakeho… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.roberts.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?p=PressReleases&ContentRecord_id=02A22AD1-A392-4496-A9E2-5E294C3F0C03 Chairman Roberts: Trade Is More Than a Product Crossing a Border 2017-12-12 2017 2017-12 Republican House KS Pat Roberts R000307 www.roberts.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Pat Roberts, R-Kan., Chairman of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, today addressed the Washington International Trade Association, highlighting the benefits of NAFTA to American agriculture and the numerous associated American jobs. Roberts then participated in an agriculture trade discussion with Ambassador Max Baucus, former Chairman of the Senate Finance Committee and U.S. Ambassador to China; and Grant Aldonas, former Under Secretary of Commerce for International Trade and currently the Executive Director or the Institute of International Economic Law at Georgetown Law. “There is a great deal of frustration in farm country because we are missing opportunities to grow our exports,” Roberts said. “I believe that the renegotiation of NAFTA could provide just that opportunity. Strengthening and modernizing NAFTA should result in even stronger economic growth for the United States and for Canada and Mexico.” “Trade is more than a product crossing a border. A seed planted in a field might ultimately become a meal for a family, but in between you’ll find the combine that harvests it, the facility that processes it, and perhaps most important the people employed at every step of the way.” “U.S. agriculture has grown because of agreements like NAFTA, and from the farmer in the field to the grocer in the store, American workers have benefited from that growth.” Senator Roberts is also a member of the Senate Finance Committee, with jurisdiction over U.S. trade policy. Roberts has relentlessly highlighted the vast benefits of NAFTA to American agriculture, including multiple conversations with President Trump, U.S. Trade Representative Bob Lighthizer, Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross, and other high-ranking officials in the Administration.  The following is Chairman Roberts’ remarks as prepared for delivery:  Good morning. It’s great to be with you all today, and I am especially pleased to be back here with my good friend, Ambassador Baucus.  Max and I have… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2017/12/protecting-nafta Kansas Common Sense - Protecting NAFTA 2017-12-11 2017 2017-12 Republican House KS Jerry Moran M000934 www.moran.senate.gov     legacy Hello, Welcome to “Kansas Common Sense.” Thanks for your continued interest in receiving my weekly newsletter. Please feel free to forward it on to your family and friends if it would interest them. Robba and I had the opportunity to celebrate the Christmas season at the White House this week for the annual White House congressional ball. I hope you all are looking forward to spending the holidays ahead with friends and family. Pushing to Protect NAFTA for Kansas Farmers, Ranchers and ManufacturersI met with Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross this week, along with my colleagues on the Senate Commerce Committee, regarding the ongoing negotiations with the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and its vital importance to farmers, ranchers and manufacturers in Kansas. Our state’s economy is dependent on our ability to export what we grow and manufacture to consumers around the world. In 2016, Kansas exported more than $4.5 billion worth of agricultural products, which supported more than 36,000 jobs and generated more than $5.7 billion in economic activity. I support the administration’s effort to modernize and improve NAFTA, but I am concerned that withdrawing from the agreement with Kansas’ two largest trade partners will harm our farmers and ranchers and cost us jobs, and will especially damage manufacturing jobs. To illustrate this point, I showed Secretary Ross a picture of grain piles waiting on the ground in Kensington, Kansas as a direct example of why NAFTA is needed in our state to sell goods and feed the world. I appreciate the Secretary’s willingness to engage in this issue and hear our concerns. Secretary Ross understands I will continue to follow the negotiation process closely and I will not hesitate to bring up further concerns as I hear from farmers and ranchers on this issue. Banking Committee Progress on the Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief and Consumer Protection ActThis week, the U.S. Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs marked up and voted out of committee S. 2155, the … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2017/12/moran-sec-ross-discuss-nafta Abilene Reflector-Chronicle: Moran, Sec. Ross discuss NAFTA 2017-12-08 2017 2017-12 Republican House KS Jerry Moran M000934 www.moran.senate.gov     legacy Abilene Reflector-ChronicleWASHINGTON (Dec. 7) – Wednesday, U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) met with Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross regarding the ongoing negotiations with the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and NAFTA’s vital importance to farmers, ranchers and manufacturers in Kansas. Moran, who requested the meeting through the Senate Commerce Committee in a letter to Commerce Chairman John Thune (R-S.D.), was joined by several of his colleagues from the committee. “Our economy in Kansas is dependent on the ability of our farmers, ranchers and manufacturers to trade their products,” Moransaid. “In 2016, Kansas exported more than $4.5 billion worth of agricultural products, which supported more than 36,000 jobs and generated more than $5.7 billion in economic activity. I encouraged Secretary Ross to be extremely mindful of the role agricultural trade plays in Kansas’ economy and the consequences of NAFTA withdrawal to our farmers and ranchers. “To illustrate this point, I showed Secretary Ross a picture of grain piles waiting on the ground in Kensington, Kan., as a direct example of why NAFTA is needed in our state to sell goods and feed the world. “I appreciate the secretary’s willingness to engage in this issue and hear our concerns. Secretary Ross understands I will continue to follow the negotiation process closely and I will not hesitate to bring up further concerns as I hear from farmers and ranchers on this issue.”| Moran lsent a letter to Commerce Chairman John Thune (R-S.D.) last month to request the committee continue to engage with Secretary Ross on trade and the direction of NAFTA negotiations, prompting Wednesday’s meeting. Moran recently signed a bipartisan letter to Secretary Ross asking the administration to conduct a robust economic analysis to evaluate how any changes to NAFTA would affect changes to the nation’s crop and livestock sectors. Moran also sent an open letter to farmers and ranchers regarding the threat of NAFTA withdrawal and urged them to advocate for sound trade … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2017/12/senators-urge-nationwide-review-of-va-providers-in-light-of-usa-today-report Senators Urge Nationwide Review of VA Providers in Light of USA Today Report 2017-12-08 2017 2017-12 Republican House KS Jerry Moran M000934 www.moran.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON—A bipartisan group of U.S. senators, including U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), are calling on the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to conduct a nationwide review of its providers after a USA Today investigation found multiple providers hired by the Department had at least one state medical license revoked due to malpractice. In a letter to VA Secretary David Shulkin, the senators presented a series of questions. “For years, states have experienced provider shortages across many different medical specialties, and like the private sector healthcare industry, the VA has faced similar provider shortages,” the senators wrote to Shulkin. “As such, we request information about the VA’s oversight of provider hiring guidelines to ensure that the pressure to fill shortages has not led to insufficient health care quality controls.” In addition to Moran, the letter was signed by Senators John Boozman (R-AR), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), John Barrasso (R-WY), Bill Cassidy, MD (R-LA), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Mike Enzi (R-WY), Orrin Hatch (R-UT), Jim Inhofe (R-OK), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Bill Nelson (D-FL), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) and Ron Wyden (D-OR). Full text of the letter can be found here and below: December 8, 2017 The Honorable David Shulkin Secretary U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs 810 Vermont Ave NW Washington, DC 20420-0001 Dear Secretary Shulkin: We write to express our serious concerns regarding recent media reports suggesting that the Department of Veterans Affairs offers employment to medical practitioners with a known history of licensure revocation by a state medical licensing board. The national reporting also highlighted cases of the VA hiring providers with known conduct and performance deficiencies that resulted in sanctions and criminal charges of the individuals. For years, states have experienced provider shortages across many different medical specialties, and like the private sector healthcare industry, the VA has faced similar provider shortages. For states, such as … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2017/12/u-s-senators-moran-heitkamp-lead-support-of-eld-delay Pittsburg Morning Sun: U.S. Senators Moran, Heitkamp lead support of ELD delay 2017-12-08 2017 2017-12 Republican House KS Jerry Moran M000934 www.moran.senate.gov     legacy Pittsburg Morning Sun By Chance HoenerWASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) helped lead a call to delay the implementation of electronic logging devices for transporters carrying livestock and insects Tuesday. Moran and U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp (D-N.D.) led a bipartisan group of colleagues in support of the delay. The senators crafted a letter, sent to Senate leaders, which supports a provision in the U.S. House-passed Transportation, Housing and Urban Development appropriations bill delaying implementation of ELDs and providing the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Association time to make the necessary adjustments to hours of service rules to address animal welfare concerns. “Our state’s agricultural economy and rural jobs rely on the ability to transport livestock, particularly cattle, from across the country to Kansas,” Moran said. “Requiring electronic logging devices without providing additional flexibility to the hours of services rules for livestock haulers has the potential to harm not only the industry, but also the welfare of the animals they carry. “I am pleased to lead a bipartisan group of my Senate colleagues in calling for a delay in the ELD mandate for livestock haulers so they are able to continue to ensure motorist safety while also delivering livestock in a timely and humane manner.” ELDs synchronize with the engine of a tractor-trailer to automatically keep track of driving hours, without drivers needing to maintain a logbook. A mandate requiring truck fleets to have ELDs installed goes into effect December 18, but the group led by Moran and Heitkamp is calling for a delay to that date, specifically for livestock and insect transport vehicles. The supporting senators believe the delay will allow the FMCSA time to make adjustments to the hours of service rules — which outline time drivers can be on the road and more — to accommodate transporters of livestock and insects. In their letter, the senators state that FMCSA approved a 90-day waiver for compliance for agricultural transport… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://lynnjenkins.house.gov/press-releases/congresswoman-jenkins-on-supporting-the-continuing-resolution/ Congresswoman Jenkins on Supporting the Continuing Resolution 2017-12-07 2017 2017-12 Republican House KS Lynn Jenkins J000290 lynnjenkins.house.gov     legacy Congresswoman Lynn Jenkins (KS-02) released the following statement after the House of Representatives passed H.J.Res. 123 - The Continuing Appropriations Act, 2018 which will fund the government for two weeks: “I have often said that we need to stop kicking the fiscal can down the road, and enact broader spending reforms to the budget while Republicans control the House, Senate and the White House. It is my hope, that in these next two weeks, we can come together and get our budget on the right fiscal track while funding necessary programs. This Continuing Resolution also includes funding for the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) through the end of the year. While it is absolutely crucial this program be reauthorized on a more long-term basis in the near future, I want to be clear that no Kansas children who rely on CHIP are currently without health insurance coverage or are in imminent threat of losing it. The Kansas program has funds that will last well into 2018 and while it is absolutely crucial this program be reauthorized on a more long-term basis in the near future, I am confident Congress will do their job. As we near the end of 2017, I urge my colleagues to consider the importance of both fiscal stability and fiscal responsibility which, combined together, will have a positive impact on future generations.” 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2017/12/banking-committee-advances-moran-supported-economic-growth-regulatory-relief-and-consumer-protection-act Banking Committee Advances Moran-Supported Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief and Consumer Protection Act 2017-12-07 2017 2017-12 Republican House KS Jerry Moran M000934 www.moran.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON – This week, the U.S. Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs marked up and voted out of committee S. 2155, the “Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief and Consumer Protection Act.” Co-sponsored by U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) this overwhelmingly bipartisan legislation right-sizes regulation for smaller financial institutions and includes important consumer protections for veterans, senior citizens and victims of fraud. It will also improve our nation’s financial regulatory framework, encouraging economic growth in communities across Kansas. “I have been proud to work with my colleagues in a bipartisan fashion to strike a sensible agreement on ways to improve local financial services, and to strengthen protections for veterans, senior citizens and victims of fraud,” said Sen. Moran. “By rolling back unnecessary and cumbersome regulations, this bill encourages economic growth in rural and local communities and helps Kansans access and protect their credit.” Widespread support for S. 2155, the Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief and Consumer Protection Act: Bipartisan Policy Center: “As U.S. politics descends ever further into partisanship, there are still signs that old-fashioned legislating is not dead. This week, the Senate Banking Committee will mark up one of the first significant pieces of financial regulatory legislation in years with real bipartisan support. These are not major changes. Yet taken together, they are constructive and should provide greater incentives to extend credit, particularly to Main Street small businesses, without undermining the progress made since the crisis in making the financial system safer.” – John Soroushian and Justin Schardin, Bipartisan Policy Center Independent Community Bankers of America: “The markup of S. 2155 is a rare opening for real, impactful relief that will strengthen economic growth, job creation, and consumer protection. It is the culmination of years of collaborative effort to achieve consensus among members of Congress across the spec… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=307 Estes Votes to Uphold Second Amendment 2017-12-06 2017 2017-12 Republican House KS Ron Estes E000298 estes.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON—Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas) issued the following statement following House passage of H.R. 38, the Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act: "Kansans shouldn't have their Constitutional rights restricted simply because they travel out of state. The Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act protects Kansans' Second Amendment right by ensuring that anyone who is allowed to possess a concealed handgun in our state can carry in another state that permits concealed carry," said Rep. Estes.  "This bill was the first piece of legislation I cosponsored after being sworn into Congress and I am glad to support its passage today." Ron Estes is a 5th generation Kansan and represents Kansas’ 4th congressional district in the U.S. House of Representatives. He serves on the House Committee on Education and the Workforce, and the House Committee on Homeland Security. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2017/12/moran-bill-would-streamline-increase-veterans-access-to-quality-health-care The Ripon Advance: Moran bill would streamline, increase veterans access to quality health care 2017-12-06 2017 2017-12 Republican House KS Jerry Moran M000934 www.moran.senate.gov     legacy The Ripon AdvanceU.S. Sen. Jerry Moran (R-KS) recently introduced the Veterans Community Care and Access Act of 2017 to reform U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) health care and put veterans at the center of decisions on where and when they receive care in the wake of VA-care scandals that have come to light across the nation. “Far too many Kansas veterans have experienced unnecessary difficulties accessing the care they’ve earned from the VA, and I appreciate that they have shared their stories and empowered us to work on their behalf,” Moran said. “Demand has demonstrated that veterans want and need health care options in their communities, but there must be reform at the VA to create a system that works for them,” added Moran, who chairs the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies. S. 2184 would better integrate VA services and existing VA community care programs like the Veterans Choice Program into an efficient and high-performing health care system. The measure would require that the VA use objective health care demand data for setting care quality and access standards and for identifying and connecting gaps in care, whether by the VA or community providers. Moran’s bill would make sure that the VA promptly pays community providers, provides walk-in clinic access, offers telemedicine services, increases graduate medical education and residency positions for its employees, and improves collaboration with community providers and other federal agencies. Sen. John McCain (R-AZ), chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, teamed up with Moran in introducing the bill. “In the wake of the scandal in care at VA hospitals in Phoenix and around the country, we vowed to guarantee our veterans timely access to quality treatment,” said Sen. McCain. “It’s time we transform the VA into a 21st century health care system, one that respects the dignity of our men and women in uniform and provides all veterans the quality health care they deserve.” The Am… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2017/12/sen-moran-discusses-nafta-negotiations-with-secretary-ross Sen. Moran Discusses NAFTA Negotiations with Secretary Ross 2017-12-06 2017 2017-12 Republican House KS Jerry Moran M000934 www.moran.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) met with Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross regarding the ongoing negotiations with the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and NAFTA’s vital importance to farmers, ranchers and manufacturers in Kansas. Sen. Moran, who requested today’s meeting through the Senate Commerce Committee in a letter to Commerce Chairman John Thune (R-S.D.), was joined by several of his colleagues from the committee. “Our economy in Kansas is dependent on the ability of our farmers, ranchers and manufacturers to trade their products,” said Sen. Moran. “In 2016, Kansas exported more than $4.5 billion worth of agricultural products, which supported more than 36,000 jobs and generated more than $5.7 billion in economic activity. I encouraged Secretary Ross to be extremely mindful of the role agricultural trade plays in Kansas’ economy and the consequences of NAFTA withdrawal to our farmers and ranchers. To illustrate this point, I showed Secretary Ross a picture of grain piles waiting on the ground in Kensington, Kansas as a direct example of why NAFTA is needed in our state to sell goods and feed the world. I appreciate the Secretary’s willingness to engage in this issue and hear our concerns. Secretary Ross understands I will continue to follow the negotiation process closely and I will not hesitate to bring up further concerns as I hear from farmers and ranchers on this issue.” Items to Note: Sen. Moran last month sent a letter to Commerce Chairman John Thune (R-S.D.) to request the committee continue to engage with Secretary Ross on trade and the direction of NAFTA negotiations, prompting today’s meeting. Sen. Moran recently signed a bipartisan letter to Secretary Ross asking the administration to conduct a robust economic analysis to evaluate how any changes to NAFTA would affect changes to the nation’s crop and livestock sectors. Sen. Moran also sent an open letter to farmers and ranchers regarding the threat of NAFTA withdrawal and urged them to advocate for sound tr… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2017/12/senators-call-for-delay-of-implementation-of-the-eld-mandate-for-livestock-haulers KTIC Radio: Senators Call for Delay of Implementation of the ELD Mandate for Livestock Haulers 2017-12-06 2017 2017-12 Republican House KS Jerry Moran M000934 www.moran.senate.gov     legacy KTIC Radio United States Cattlemen's Association On Tuesday, Senators Jerry Moran (R-KS) and Heidi Heitkamp (D-ND) led a bipartisan effort to delay the implementation of the ELD mandate for livestock and insect haulers. In a letter to Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer, the Senators expressed support for language included in the House-passed Transportation, Housing and Urban Development (THUD) Appropriations bill that effectively delays the ELD mandate for one-year to allow the industry to work with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to address the strict Hours-of-Service rules that transporters must abide by. USCA Transportation Committee Chairman Steve Hilker issued the following statement: “We applaud each and every Senator who signed-onto this letter for showing their support of small business owners in rural and agricultural America. A vast majority of livestock haulers are both the owner and operator of their business and this upcoming regulation will disproportionately affect our ability to do business efficiently and affordably. Given that we are hauling a living, breathing commodity, the comfort and welfare of our cargo is of the utmost concern to livestock haulers. Once loaded onto the truck, these animals must get to their destination as quickly and safely as possible. An ELD would only serve to increase the number of stops included on a trip, extending the overall time that the cattle are on the trailer and adding additional stress during an already difficult experience in that animal’s life. We appreciate Congress’ recognition of our need for additional flexibility within this mandate and look forward to working with FMCSA on viable solutions.” Click here to read more. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.roberts.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?p=PressReleases&ContentRecord_id=0517E1DB-A892-4F52-8A7D-B7AAA39C8AC9 The Hill: The US cant forget the benefits NAFTA has provided 2017-12-06 2017 2017-12 Republican House KS Pat Roberts R000307 www.roberts.senate.gov     legacy The US can’t forget the benefits NAFTA has provided           Facts are stubborn things. And it’s a fact that the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) has boosted the American economy for over 20 years. As renegotiations of the trade pact are well underway, we need to take a good clear look at NAFTA and the undeniable benefits of trade with two of our closest partners — Canada and Mexico. The facts speak for themselves, especially for my home state of Kansas. In 2016 alone, Kansas exported more than $300 million agriculture goods to our northern neighbor. Since NAFTA entered into force on Jan. 1, 1994, the value of U.S. agricultural exports to Canada has increased by 265 percent and to Mexico by 289 percent. From agriculture to aviation, NAFTA has benefited my home state of Kansas tremendously. Wichita, Kan., has long been known as the “Air Capital of the World” for our highly skilled workforce and for being the foremost aerospace manufacturing center. Since 1994, Canada has been one of the top export markets for the aerospace industry. After more than two decades of NAFTA being in force, it makes sense to take a look at areas of the agreement that can be modernized and strengthened. Could we have done things better negotiating NAFTA? Yes. Can we still do things better renegotiating NAFTA? Absolutely. However, we must not forget that Canada has long been one of our most reliable and important partners. Multiple times, we have fought side by side to ensure the security of our nations. Part of that steadfast reliability stems from our mutually beneficial trading relationship. We cannot afford to let this investment go to waste. As chairman of the Senate Agriculture Committee and a senior member of the Senate Finance Committee, I have listened to farmers, ranchers and other end users like manufacturers about the importance of access to the global marketplace, especially in a tough economy for farm country. Simply put, our economy needs access to foreign markets if we are to achieve economic growth. … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://lynnjenkins.house.gov/press-releases/congresswoman-jenkins-introduces-new-direct-supervision-bill/ Congresswoman Jenkins Introduces New Direct Supervision Bill 2017-12-05 2017 2017-12 Republican House KS Lynn Jenkins J000290 lynnjenkins.house.gov     legacy Recently, with Congresswoman Jenkins’ urging, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) placed a two year suspension on a burdensome rule that requires hospitals to perform most outpatient therapeutic services under the “direct supervision” of a physician or qualified non-physician practitioner. However, while it covered 2018 and 2019, the moratorium failed to include calendar year 2017, leaving hospitals exposed for potential regulatory action. To help our rural communities, Congresswoman Jenkins introduced H.R. 4520 to provide regulatory relief to rural hospitals for 2017 by placing a one-year moratorium on this burdensome CMS rule. The moratorium has been extended numerous times in recent years covering all prior years since the regulation was put into place. “Earlier this year, Congressman Dave Loebsack (D-IA) and I introduced legislation that would permanently end CMS’s direct supervision rule. While I feel strongly that a permanent solution here would be a far better choice for the lifeblood of Kansas communities by alleviating barriers to healthcare access, H.R.4520 will provide crucial stopgap regulatory certainty to small town hospitals for 2017. I will continue working to repeal burdensome regulations on our rural and critical access hospitals to ensure their continued presence and vitality throughout Kansas.” 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2017/12/sen-moran-to-meet-with-secretary-ross-regarding-nafta Sen. Moran To Meet With Secretary Ross Regarding NAFTA 2017-12-05 2017 2017-12 Republican House KS Jerry Moran M000934 www.moran.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON – Tomorrow, U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) will meet with Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross – along with several members of the Senate Commerce Committee – regarding the importance of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) to farmers, ranchers and manufactures in Kansas and across the country. Last month, Sen. Moran sent a letter to Commerce Chairman John Thune (R-S.D.) to request the committee continue to engage with Secretary Ross on trade and the direction of NAFTA negotiations. “With the threat of issuing a notice of withdrawal from NAFTA being openly discussed as a negotiating tactic, it would benefit members of the committee to hear directly from Secretary Ross about his views on the ongoing negotiations and the role of U.S. agriculture in those discussions,” Sen. Moran stated in the letter.  In addition, Sen. Moran recently signed a bipartisan letter to Secretary Ross asking the administration to conduct a robust economic analysis to evaluate how any changes to NAFTA would affect changes to the nation’s crop and livestock sectors. “It is imperative that before any changes are made to NAFTA, or any other free trade agreement, that economic analysis that illustrates the impact on the full supply chain of the industries involved be shared. As such, we request an economic analysis that examines and evaluates the impacts to crop and livestock sectors as a result of any change to NAFTA,” the senators wrote. To read the full letter, click here. Last month, Sen. Moran sent an open letter to farmers and ranchers regarding the threat of NAFTA withdrawal and urged them to advocate for sound trade policy. The letter was first published in Agri-Pulse and encourages the agriculture community to share their concerns with the administration about the importance of trade and their ability to sell what they produce around the world. “While tax reform dominates the discussion in Washington, D.C., U.S. agriculture must not allow its focus to be diverted from the equally important issue of agricultural t… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2017/12/sens-moran-heitkamp-lead-bipartisan-call-for-delayed-implementation-of-electronic-logging-devices-for-livestock-and-insect-transporters Sens. Moran, Heitkamp Lead Bipartisan Call for Delayed Implementation of Electronic Logging Devices for Livestock and Insect Transporters 2017-12-05 2017 2017-12 Republican House KS Jerry Moran M000934 www.moran.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) and Heidi Heitkamp (D-N.D.) today led a bipartisan group of colleagues in calling for delayed implementation of electronic logging devices (ELDs) for commercial motor vehicles transporting livestock or insects. The senators’ letter to Senate leadership supports a provision in the U.S. House-passed Transportation, Housing and Urban Development (THUD) appropriations bill delaying implementation of ELDs and providing the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Association (FMCSA) time to make the necessary adjustments to hours of service rules to address animal welfare concerns. “Livestock production is a key contributor to the economies of our states, and jobs in rural communities depend on the ability to transport livestock across large expanses of the country,” the senators wrote. “For example, it is common for cattle in Western and Southeastern states to be purchased by producers and feedlots in the Midwest and Great Plains. These animals must be transported hundreds and even thousands of miles to their final destinations in a safe and humane manner. Long distance transportation is often the most stressful event in a livestock animal’s life and it is impractical and inhumane to stop, offload multiples times, or significantly delay delivery of these animals…. Livestock haulers are charged with the challenging task of ensuring motorist safety while protecting the welfare of the animals being transported. While some commercial operators without live cargo may have the ability to more easily transition from paper logbooks to ELDs, the pending mandate will have negative consequences on livestock haulers and hinder the ability of this unique subset of the industry to humanely deliver healthy livestock.” The letter was also signed by U.S. Senators John Hoeven (R-N.D.), Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Jon Tester (D-Mont.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Pat Roberts (R-Kan.), Mike Lee (R-Utah), Marco Rubio (R-F… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.roberts.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?p=PressReleases&ContentRecord_id=D0DFA700-DE78-4F0D-8AF5-8286168EC24C Senator Roberts Votes for Kirstjen Nielsen to be DHS Secretary 2017-12-05 2017 2017-12 Republican House KS Pat Roberts R000307 www.roberts.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Pat Roberts (R-Kan.) today voted to approve the nomination of Kirstjen Nielsen to be Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Roberts plans to host Nielsen for a visit to the construction site of the National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility (NBAF) and the Biosecurity Research Institute (BRI) at Kansas State University. “I am looking forward to working with Secretary Nielsen to ensure DHS is doing all it can to secure our nation’s food, agriculture and veterinary systems against both naturally occurring or intentional threats,” Roberts said. “I am eager to show Secretary Nielson the NBAF construction site and the BRI. We have talked and she has a standing invitation from me to see these critical research facilities firsthand.” In June, President Trump signed a bipartisan bill introduced by Senator Roberts to ensure the Department of Homeland Security made the safety of the U.S. food supply a top priority, that it takes key precautions and increases preparedness to mitigate potential risks. Senator Roberts is Chairman of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://lynnjenkins.house.gov/press-releases/congresswoman-jenkins-supports-motion-to-go-to-conference-on-tax-reform-bill/ Congresswoman Jenkins Supports Motion To Go To Conference on Tax Reform Bill 2017-12-04 2017 2017-12 Republican House KS Lynn Jenkins J000290 lynnjenkins.house.gov     legacy Today, the House of Representatives voted to go to Conference on H.R. 1 – The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. Congresswoman Lynn Jenkins (KS-02), a member of the Ways and Means Committee that drafted the House’s tax reform legislation, released the following statement after supporting the motion: “Following the passage of the Senate tax bill, I am pleased that the House has successfully voted to go to Conference where we will continue our work to re-write our broken tax code. Reconciling the best from the House and Senate bills into a single bill is the next step in the legislative process toward our final goal. There are many differences between the House and Senate bills—such as the pass-through business tax rate, the effective date of the corporate tax rate, and a variety of important tax credits—that will need to be addressed. I look forward to strengthening the tax legislation to incentivize more jobs, larger paychecks, and a tax relief for hard-working Americans. “As this legislative process continues, I encourage eastern Kansans to contact my office with your ideas and concerns. I will be sure to share your thoughts with my colleagues as we work to let Americans keep more of their money and make our tax code fairer and simpler for all.” 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2017/12/kansas-common-sense-tax-reform-passed Kansas Common Sense - Senate Tax Reform = Passed 2017-12-04 2017 2017-12 Republican House KS Jerry Moran M000934 www.moran.senate.gov     legacy Hello, Welcome to “Kansas Common Sense.” Thanks for your continued interest in receiving my weekly newsletter. Please feel free to forward it on to your family and friends if it would interest them. Senate Addresses Tax ReformIt’s been more than three decades since we have reformed our tax code and Americans can no longer afford the status quo of an outdated, complicated tax system. On Friday, I supported a fiscally-responsible, pro-growth tax reform bill that benefits middle-class families and enables businesses to compete in a 21st century economy. Our economy is poised for growth and tax reform will put us on the path to even greater economic success. This plan will incentivize companies to stay in America and encourage local businesses to grow and create good-paying jobs, better jobs and more secure jobs. Further, our tax code should work for Kansas families, not against them. The expansion of the Child Tax Credit, the nearly-doubled standard deduction and the creation of the employer credit for paid family and medical leave will increase personal income, reduce the cost of living and provide flexibility to save for the future. Further, this bill doubles the teachers’ supplies deduction and preserves the graduate student tuition waiver to encourage more people to obtain their educations in Kansas and to encourage more teachers to educate Kansans. I’m pleased this tax bill creates a simpler and fairer tax code that protects taxpayers and works for Kansas families. Introducing Legislation to Modernize the Veterans Health AdministrationOn Friday, Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.) and I introduced the Veterans Community Care and Access Act of 2017, legislation that would transform the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) into an integrated healthcare system to serve veterans well into the future. In response to the nationwide VA wait list scandal in 2014, Congress passed the Veterans’ Access to Care through Choice, Accountability, and Transparency Act of 2014 and created the Veterans Choice Program to offer greater acces… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2017/12/opinion-bipartisanship-still-exists-and-financial-reform-is-proof Roll Call: Opinion: Bipartisanship Still Exists and Financial Reform Is Proof 2017-12-04 2017 2017-12 Republican House KS Jerry Moran M000934 www.moran.senate.gov     legacy Roll Call As U.S. politics descends ever further into partisanship, there are still signs that old-fashioned legislating is not dead. This week, the Senate Banking Committee will mark up one of the first significant pieces of financial regulatory legislation in years with real bipartisan support. That means an opportunity for lasting, incremental progress that we should welcome. The proposed bill, which has 10 Republican and 10 Democratic co-sponsors, would not revolutionize the U.S. financial regulatory system, and that’s a good thing. The Dodd-Frank Act and other post-financial crisis reforms have made the financial system and Americans safer overall, but like most major reforms, they have also created unintended consequences. The Senate bill would address some of these, while retaining the overall post-crisis framework that is generally working. For one thing, the proposed legislation would ease the compliance burden on smaller community banks, as experts of both parties have urged. The number of commercial banks in the United States has dropped by about two-thirds since the 1980s, for a variety of reasons. Since community banks have historically lent more to the small businesses that create so many jobs in the U.S. economy, the health of community banks is a reasonable focus of policymakers. The proposed legislation recognizes that some of the compliance requirements on small banks either are unnecessary or do not reflect the difficulty that many community banks, especially in rural areas, face in complying with them. The Bipartisan Policy Center was among the first to call for raising the threshold above which banks face Dodd-Frank’s extra prudential requirements, such as stress testing and resolution planning. BPC proposed raising the threshold to $250 billion in assets from $50 billion — a size at which it would be difficult for a bank to be systemically important — and giving regulators some discretion in applying the threshold to banks above and below it. This would allow financial regulators to devote t… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2017/12/senators-mccain-moran-introduce-legislation-to-reform-va-into-21st-century-health-care-system Senators McCain, Moran Introduce Legislation to Reform VA Into 21st Century Health Care System 2017-12-04 2017 2017-12 Republican House KS Jerry Moran M000934 www.moran.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON ­– U.S. Senators John McCain (R-Ariz.), Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, and Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies, have introduced the Veterans Community Care and Access Act of 2017, legislation that would transform the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) into a modern, efficient and easy-to-use system that will increase veterans’ access to quality care. This legislation, S. 2184, would better integrate VA services and existing VA community care programs, such as the Veterans Choice Program, into an efficient and high-performing healthcare system. “In the wake of the scandal in care at VA hospitals in Phoenix and around the country, we vowed to guarantee our veterans timely access to quality treatment,” said Sen. McCain. “The Veterans Choice Program was the first step in delivering on that promise, but much more needs to be done to provide all veterans a choice in when and where they receive care. Our bill would strengthen and improve the core elements of Choice by consolidating and streamlining the VA’s community care program. Moreover, the bill would deliver long overdue, critical reforms to the VA, including commonsense reporting standards that ensure cost-efficient care to our nation’s veterans. It’s time we transform the VA into a 21st century health care system, one that respects the dignity of our men and women in uniform and provides all veterans the quality health care they deserve.” “Since the creation of the Veterans Choice Program, Congress has repeatedly pushed the VA to make much-needed changes to its healthcare system,” said Sen. Moran. “Far too many Kansas veterans have experienced unnecessary difficulties accessing the care they’ve earned from the VA, and I appreciate that they have shared their stories and empowered us to work on their behalf. Demand has demonstrated that veterans want and need healthcare options in their communities, but there must be reform at the V… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2017/12/sen-moran-applauds-passage-of-senate-tax-reform-bill Sen. Moran Applauds Passage of Senate Tax Reform Bill 2017-12-02 2017 2017-12 Republican House KS Jerry Moran M000934 www.moran.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) released the following statement after voting in favor of the Senate’s tax reform bill: “It’s been more than three decades since Congress has reformed our tax code and Americans can no longer afford the status quo of an outdated, complicated tax system. Today I supported a fiscally-responsible, pro-growth tax reform bill that benefits middle-class families and enables businesses to compete in a 21st century economy. “Our economy is poised for growth and tax reform will put us on the path to even greater economic success. This plan will incentivize companies to stay in America and will encourage local businesses to grow and create good-paying jobs, better jobs and more secure jobs. Further, our tax code should work for Kansas families, not against them. The expansion of the Child Tax Credit, the nearly-doubled standard deduction and the creation of the employer credit for paid family and medical leave will increase personal income, reduce the cost of living and provide flexibility to save for the future. I’m pleased this tax bill creates a simpler and fairer tax code that protects taxpayers and works for Kansas families.” The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act: Lowers individual tax rates for low- and middle-income Americans by effectively expanding the zero tax bracket and maintaining a 10 percent bracket allowing hardworking taxpayers to keep more of their money and save for retirement. Nearly doubles the standard deduction to reduce or eliminate the federal income tax burden for tens of millions of American families. Standard deduction will go from $6,350 to $12,000 for individuals, from $12,700 to $24,000 for married couples, and from $9,350 to $18,000 for single parents. Expands the child tax credit from $1,000 to $2,000 and allows more parents to claim the credit by substantially lifting existing caps. In addition, it preserves the adoption tax credit to help families with the high costs of adopting children. Preserves the earned income tax credit to provide r… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2017/12/senators-moran-and-roberts-release-statements-after-tax-bill-passes KSN-TV: Senators Moran and Roberts release statements after tax bill passes 2017-12-02 2017 2017-12 Republican House KS Jerry Moran M000934 www.moran.senate.gov     legacy KSN-TVWASHINGTON (KSNW) – United States Senators Jerry Moran and Pat Roberts released statements following the vote to pass a nearly $1.5 trillion tax bill early Saturday morning.“It’s been more than three decades since Congress has reformed our tax code and Americans can no longer afford the status quo of an outdated, complicated tax system,” said Sen. Moran. “Today I supported a fiscally-responsible, pro-growth tax reform bill that benefits middle-class families and enables businesses to compete in a 21st century economy.” Moran said the economy is poised for growth and the tax reform will guide the country to greater economic success. “This plan will incentivize companies to stay in America and will encourage local businesses to grow and create good-paying jobs, better jobs and more secure jobs,” added Sen. Moran. Moran noted the tax code should work for Kansas families, not against them. “I’m pleased this tax bill creates a simpler and fairer tax code that protects taxpayers and works for Kansas families,” said Sen. Moran. The Senate approved bill will now go to a conference committee to reconcile differences in in the House and Senate versions of the bill. “Today the Senate made history and approved historic tax reform to once again make government a partner in our success not an adversary,” said Sen. Pat Roberts. Senator Roberts serves on the tax-writing Finance Committee. He praised the legislation’s provisions that will provide certainty to farmers and ranchers. “I am very pleased the Senate bill keeps the Ag tax provisions, but will also help our farmers by creating a much more pro-growth tax system,” added Sen. Roberts. Click here to read more. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.roberts.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?p=PressReleases&ContentRecord_id=C3E44D00-4272-41BE-BC69-F7072CDFA552 Senator Roberts Votes for Historic Tax Reform 2017-11-30 2017 2017-11 Republican House KS Pat Roberts R000307 www.roberts.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Pat Roberts (R-Kan.) today cast his vote in support of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, a bill to provide middle-income Americans with tax relief and to modernize the tax code. The Senate-approved bill now goes to a conference committee to reconcile differences in the House and Senate versions of the bill. “Today the Senate made history and approved historic tax reform to once again make government a partner in our success not an adversary,” Roberts said. “Everyone understands tax reform is critical. All of us in the Senate – on both sides of the aisle – are familiar with the burdens, the complexity, and lack of competitiveness associated with our current tax system. It is abundantly clear that this complexity and our antiquated corporate tax system act as a brake on our economy. “We have proven that we can act decisively to grow our economy, help those living paycheck to paycheck, create better opportunities with job creation and bring jobs back from overseas.” Once the conference committee approves the conference report, both the Senate and the House must approve the report before the president may sign it into law. Senator Roberts serves on the tax-writing Finance Committee. He was tapped to be the leading voice on agriculture issues when writing the tax reform bill. He praised the legislation’s provisions that will provide certainty to farmers and ranchers. He said, “I am very pleased the Senate bill keeps the Ag tax provisions, but will also help our farmers by creating a much more pro-growth tax system, lowering their tax burden and simplifying the tax provisions relating to the agricultural sector.” Thursday afternoon, Roberts spoke in support of the bill on the Senate floor. To view or download video, go here. Senator Roberts also serves as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Agriculture Nutrition and Forestry.   -30- 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.roberts.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?p=PressReleases&ContentRecord_id=CF1E8D52-136E-4B9A-B0A8-05C573D7B498 Roberts: Tax Reform is Critical to Economic Growth, Creating Jobs and Higher Wages 2017-11-30 2017 2017-11 Republican House KS Pat Roberts R000307 www.roberts.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Pat Roberts (R-Kan.), a senior member of the tax-writing Senate Finance Committee, today spoke on the Senate floor in support of the Senate’s tax reform legislation, saying it is critical to maximizing economic growth, creating jobs and higher wages, and finally getting our economy back on track. “We all understand how critical tax reform is,” said Roberts. “We have before us now a comprehensive plan to address the many issues with our current tax code, cleaning up and modernizing the tax code, to help generate more growth in our economy. The bill before the Senate does exactly that, providing meaningful tax relief for families, small businesses, and farmers and ranchers.” To view or download video of Roberts speaking on the Senate floor, go here, or click the image below. Roberts, who was tapped to be the leading voice on agriculture issues on the Finance Committee, praised the legislation’s provisions that will provide certainty to farmers and ranchers. He said, “I am very pleased the Senate bill keeps the Ag tax provisions, but will also help our farmers by creating a much more pro-growth tax system, lowering their tax burden and simplifying the tax provisions relating to the agricultural sector.” The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act passed out of the Senate Finance Committee, with Roberts’ support, on November 16, after a week of marking up the legislation. For video of his opening statement at the markup of the legislation, go here. The U.S. House of Representatives passed their version of the Tax Cut and Jobs Act earlier this month. The legislation is expected to be voted on in the Senate this week. Roberts’ full remarks, as prepared for delivery are below:  Mr. President, soon, this Senate will take an historic vote that will impact every American. These votes do not come very often. We all understand how critical tax reform is. All of us in the Senate – on both sides of the aisle – are familiar with the burdens, the complexity, and lack of competitiveness associated with our current… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.roberts.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?p=VideoClips&ContentRecord_id=4846B9FD-DDC4-4CAE-8646-FA50A25B9AB6 Roberts: Tax Reform is Critical to Economic Growth, Creating Jobs and Higher Wages 2017-11-30 2017 2017-11 Republican House KS Pat Roberts R000307 www.roberts.senate.gov     legacy U.S. Senator Pat Roberts (R-Kan.), a senior member of the tax-writing Senate Finance Committee, today spoke on the Senate floor in support of the Senate’s tax reform legislation, saying it is critical to maximizing economic growth, creating jobs and higher wages, and finally getting our economy back on track. “We all understand how critical tax reform is,” said Roberts. “We have before us now a comprehensive plan to address the many issues with our current tax code, cleaning up and modernizing the tax code, to help generate more growth in our economy. The bill before the Senate does exactly that, providing meaningful tax relief for families, small businesses, and farmers and ranchers.” Roberts, who was tapped to be the leading voice on agriculture issues on the Finance Committee, praised the legislation’s provisions that will provide certainty to farmers and ranchers. He said, “I am very pleased the Senate bill keeps the Ag tax provisions, but will also help our farmers by creating a much more pro-growth tax system, lowering their tax burden and simplifying the tax provisions relating to the agricultural sector.” The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act passed out of the Senate Finance Committee, with Roberts’ support, on November 16, after a week of marking up the legislation. For video of his opening statement at the markup of the legislation, go here. The U.S. House of Representatives passed their version of the Tax Cut and Jobs Act earlier this month. The legislation is expected to be voted on in the Senate this week. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://yoder.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/tax-cuts-and-jobs-act-myth-vs-fact Tax Cuts and Jobs Act: Myth vs. Fact 2017-11-30 2017 2017-11 Republican House KS Kevin Yoder Y000063 yoder.house.gov     legacy MYTH: The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act is the same as the tax plan signed into law in Kansas in 2012. FACT: The Kansas tax “experiment” cut rates for small businesses to 0%. Our plan reduces the federal rate to 25%, which will allow American small businesses to compete at a level similar to other nations around the world without irresponsibly eliminating the taxes altogether.  In Kansas, there were no guardrails put in place to prevent tax avoidance by individuals who could classify their income as business income by filing with the state as a business. However, our bill does. It presumes that 70% of income is attributable to labor and would be taxed at the individual income-tax rate. And those providing a professional service, like lawyers, financial planners, and college athletics coaches, are not eligible to qualify for the lower 25% rate.  Finally, in Kansas, income tax rates were cut across the board with no removal of deductions or exemptions – the loopholes that let wealthier filers reduce their taxable income. In order to simplify the tax code, our bill eliminates those loopholes for the rich, but retains middle-class tax incentives such as deductions for home mortgage interest and charitable contributions.  MYTH: Eliminating loopholes like the state and local tax deduction hurts middle class families because they are the ones taking advantage of those provisions. FACT: About 105 million Americans, or about 70% of tax filers, do not itemize their deductions when doing their taxes. That means they do not take deductions for their state and local tax taxes, their mortgage interest, their donations to charity, etc. Instead, those 7 in 10 people take the standard deduction, which doubles in value in our bill.  The 3 in 10 people who do itemize their deductions tend to be wealthier individuals. In fact, according to The Economist, 90% of the benefits of the state and local tax deduction go to those making more than $100,000 per year. According to the Census Bureau, the median household income – the widely-accepted de… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=304 Estes on House Vote to Mandate Annual Sexual Harassment Training 2017-11-29 2017 2017-11 Republican House KS Ron Estes E000298 estes.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON—Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas) issued the following statement after the House unanimously passed a bill mandating annual sexual harassment training: “There is no place for sexual harassment in our society and there is no excuse for such offenses. As the father of two daughters, it makes me sick to hear the stories which have recently come to light from within Hollywood, the media, Capitol Hill and statehouses around the country including Kansas. We must hold abusers accountable for their transgressions, and do everything we can to prevent future abuse," said Rep. Estes. "It's clear that this isn't just a problem within any one industry but a widespread cultural problem across our country that must be addressed. I support policies that will strengthen reporting protocols and believe we must increase prevention training. Today's vote will mandate yearly sexual harassment training for members and staff, which my entire staff has already completed. No one should have to deal with sexual harassment at work.” Ron Estes is a 5th generation Kansan and represents Kansas’ 4th congressional district in the U.S. House of Representatives. He serves on the House Committee on Education and the Workforce, and the House Committee on Homeland Security. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2017/11/sen-moran-today-s-vote-signals-a-significant-step-forward-in-achieving-tax-relief-for-kansas-families Sen. Moran: Todays Vote Signals a Significant Step Forward in Achieving Tax Relief for Kansas Families 2017-11-29 2017 2017-11 Republican House KS Jerry Moran M000934 www.moran.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) today released the following statement after voting in favor of the motion to proceed on the Senate’s tax reform bill: “Over the past few weeks, I have spoken with hundreds of Kansans at townhalls and meetings across the state regarding tax reform and ways to build a tax code that works for them. Today’s vote signals a significant step forward in achieving tax relief for families in Kansas and across America. “I look forward to continuing the tax debate in an open and transparent fashion, and while I am still discussing ways to improve this bill before final passage with my colleagues, I expect to support a tax package that grows the economy, protects taxpayers, creates good paying jobs and helps Americans keep more of their hard-earned money.”   ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2017/11/senators-demand-answers-about-uber-data-breach Senators Demand Answers About Uber Data Breach 2017-11-28 2017 2017-11 Republican House KS Jerry Moran M000934 www.moran.senate.gov     legacy PC Magazine By Michael Kan US senators are asking Uber whether it deliberately concealed the Oct. 2016 data breach. Several US senators are troubled with Uber's belated reporting of a 2016 data breach and demanding answers. On Monday, four Republican senators sent a letter to the ride-hailing company, asking for additional details surrounding the breach, which affected 57 million users, but was only disclosed last week. In the letter, the senators—John Thune, Orrin Hatch, Jerry Moran and Bill Cassidy—called the breach a "serious incident that merits further scrutiny." Also today, Democratic Sen. Mark Warner of Virginia sent a separate letter to Uber, which said he had "grave concerns" with how the company handled the breach. Both letters pointed to media reports, which claim Uber paid the hackers behind the breach $100,000 to stay quiet and delete the stolen data. The ride-hailing company then remained silent on the matter for a whole year until its new CEO, Dara Khosrowshahi, learned of the incident, and decided to make it public. "Uber's conduct raises serious questions about the company's compliance with relevant state and federal regulations," Warner said. Most states have laws that demand businesses disclose data breaches when they affect local residents. Why Uber decided to stay mum on the incident isn't clear, but its previous CEO, Travis Kalanick, was notorious for trying to buck the rules. In a statement, an Uber spokesperson said: "We have been in contact with members of Congress and the relevant committees to inform them of the situation. We are working to respond to their inquiries and address their concerns." Both letters include a list of questions, including whether the company sought to deliberately cover up the breach, if so why, and who authorized the $100,000 payment to the hackers. The FTC and UK regulators are also investigating Uber's handling of the breach. The data stolen included names, email addresses and mobile phone numbers from Uber riders. Another 600,000 Uber drivers had their driv… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://yoder.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/yoder-announces-military-academy-nominations Yoder Announces Military Academy Nominations 2017-11-28 2017 2017-11 Republican House KS Kevin Yoder Y000063 yoder.house.gov     legacy Overland Park, KS – Representative Kevin Yoder (R-KS) announced today that he has nominated 30 area students to the U.S. Military Academy, U.S. Naval Academy, and the U.S. Air Force Academy. The Third District’s Academy Nomination Board, appointed by Representative Yoder, conducted interviews with the applicants following review of their applications. After receiving their nominations, the applicants must now meet the requirements of each U.S. Service Academy to be considered for appointment. Ultimately, the Academies make the final decision on who receives an appointment of admission.  “It’s an honor and a privilege to announce the nomination of 30 remarkable Kansans from the Third Congressional District to a United States Service Academy,” Rep. Yoder said. “Each man and woman nominated today represents distinguished character, scholarship, leadership, and service. I’m proud that these students are the future leaders of our country, and I wish them the best of luck as they seek an appointment to a U.S. Service Academy. Thank you all for your commitment to serving our nation.” United States Naval Academy – Annapolis, Maryland Ryan Devers – Olathe Thomas Finn – Overland Park Ryan Fitzgerald – Leawood Andrew Goodman - Shawnee Jerad Habben – Shawnee Ansel Herndon – Overland Park Claire Ivey – Shawnee Alexander “Patrick” Lim – Overland Park Caden Merrick – Overland Park Ernest Pereira – Leawood Adam Wells - Stilwell United States Military Academy – West Point, New York Devon Beuscher – Olathe Andrew Ernsdorff – Shawnee Benjamin Hanson - Olathe Carson Krakar - Olathe Hayley Murguia – Olathe Dennis Rice – Prairie Village                  Steven Rohde – Overland Park Jack Russell – Overland Park Karen Yan – Overland Park United States Air Force Academy – Colorado Springs, Colorado Madison Beck – Olathe  Chad Buzzell – Overland Park Carson Davis – Gardner Jillian Hayne - Olathe Marshall Kellner – De Soto Catherine McAlister - Fairway Camden Schieffer -  Leawood Patrick Sullivan - Westwood Jacob Taylor – De Soto All… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2017/11/kansas-common-sense-spending-thanksgiving-with-ft-riley-families Kansas Common Sense - Spending Thanksgiving with Ft. Riley Families 2017-11-27 2017 2017-11 Republican House KS Jerry Moran M000934 www.moran.senate.gov     legacy Hello, Welcome to “Kansas Common Sense.” Thanks for your continued interest in receiving my weekly newsletter. Please feel free to forward it on to your family and friends if it would interest them. Robba and I hope you and your family had a wonderful Thanksgiving this week. We visited and dined with soldiers and their families at Ft. Riley, as well as Major General Martin and Sergeant Major Cornelison, and thanked them for their service on behalf of all Kansans. I had a little work to do before dining. My responsibilities: sweet potatoes, rice and dressing. Our family had our traditional Thanksgiving dinner on Saturday and were all together in church on Sunday. We are thankful for the sacrifices and service of those enlisted in our armed forces, in Kansas and across the nation. Visiting Leavenworth High School and the Leavenworth Kiwanis ClubI spent time in Leavenworth on Tuesday afternoon where I toured the high school and joined a Kiwanis Club meeting. My tour of Leavenworth High School was led by student leaders Chase Broeker and Madeline Murphy along with LHS Principal Christina Lentz. The students described their daily schedule and what their school offers, then showed me around the athletic facilities along with the theater, choir and band rooms. We visited the ROTC program, which has the distinct honor of being the oldest in the nation – first established in 1916. I also viewed Auto One class, which is held in partnership with Highland Community college, to see what the students were up to. Auto One students work on cars, learning mechanical skills and design. I was pleased to hear that LHS offers avenues to tech and vocational schools as well as four-year colleges. Following my visit to LHS, the Salvation Army of Leavenworth County shared the Leavenworth Kiwanis Club program with me during their meeting at the Heritage Center. One of the many things I am thankful for is the good work of service organizations like the Kiwanis Club who provide for so many not only during the holiday season but year-round, … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2017/11/kansas-senator-moran-vows-to-defend-va-health-system Kansas Senator Moran Vows To Defend VA Health System 2017-11-27 2017 2017-11 Republican House KS Jerry Moran M000934 www.moran.senate.gov     legacy High Plains Public Radio By Jim McLeanU.S. Sen. Jerry Moran is a frequent critic of the health care system run by the Veteran’s Administration. But at a recent town-hall meeting, the Kansas Republican made it clear he doesn’t want to replace it. Moran is a strong supporter of the Choice Program, which gives veterans who live more than 40 miles from a VA medical facility the option of seeing private providers closer to home. But he says he is opposed to efforts by some in the Trump administration to do away with the VA health care system. “There ought to be more choices for veterans, more community care," Moran says. "But I don’t think it all means replacing the VA, and certainly, at this point, we don’t have the evidence that that is a workable solution anyways.” Moran says veterans tell him that they prefer having their own health care system, and that, by necessity, VA hospitals are often better equipped to provide the kind specific care that wounded veterans need. Click here to read more. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2017/11/sen-moran-seeks-answers-on-uber-data-breach Sen. Moran Seeks Answers on Uber Data Breach 2017-11-27 2017 2017-11 Republican House KS Jerry Moran M000934 www.moran.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) – chairman of the Senate Commerce Subcommittee on Consumer Protection, Product Safety, Insurance and Data Security – along with Sens. John Thune (R-S.D.), Orrin Hatch (R-Utah) and Bill Cassidy (R-La.) today, in a letter to Uber Technologies Inc. CEO Dara Khosrowshahi, requested information related to recent reports of a data breach, which Uber failed to disclose promptly, involving the personal information of 57 million customers including names, email addresses, and mobile phone numbers. Excerpt from the letter to Uber: “The company maintains that its outside forensic experts have not seen any indication that customer trip location history, credit card numbers, bank account numbers, Social Security numbers, or dates of birth were downloaded. Nevertheless, the nature of the information currently acknowledged to have been compromised, together with the allegation that the company concealed the breach without notifying affected drivers and consumers, and prior privacy concerns at Uber, makes this a serious incident that merits further scrutiny.” In asking Uber to answer 11 questions about the breach and the company’s response, the letter notes that Uber released a report in January 2015 concluding the company had appropriate data security and incident response plans in place. News reports that Uber paid hackers $100,000 to delete compromised information raise concerns that the company may not have followed its own policies or adhered to the letter and spirit of an August 2017 consent order the company entered into with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to address its privacy and data security practices. Sen. Moran’s Senate Commerce Subcommittee on Consumer Protection, Product Safety, Insurance and Data Security exercises jurisdiction over consumer protection and cybersecurity issues. The letter requests a response as soon as possible but no later than December 11, 2017. Click here for a copy of the full letter to Uber.  ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2017/11/three-lawrence-students-nominated-for-u-s-service-academies Three Lawrence students nominated for U.S. service academies 2017-11-27 2017 2017-11 Republican House KS Jerry Moran M000934 www.moran.senate.gov     legacy Lawrence Journal-World By Joanna Hlavacek Three Lawrence students are among approximately 80 young Kansans nominated by U.S. Sens. Jerry Moran and Pat Roberts for admission to a United States Service Academy. The two senators announced their nominees separately earlier this month. Joseph Michael Harms, a 2017 Lawrence High School graduate, has been nominated by Moran to the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado, while Jack Russell, a Lawrence resident and 2017 graduate of Blue Valley West High School, has been nominated by Moran to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. Charles Joseph Bermel, a senior at Free State High School, earned nominations from both Moran and Roberts for admission to the U.S. Air Force Academy. Roberts’ nominations are based on the recommendations of the senator’s Academy Screening Board, as a nonpartisan board comprising seven volunteers from across Kansas. As part of the decision-making process, board members conduct personal interviews with the applicants in addition to a review of their written applications, grade-point averages and standardized test scores. Moran’s Service Academy Selection Board considered more than 70 young Kansans interested in attending the country’s service academies, according to a news release from Moran’s office. After interviews at Abilene’s Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library, the board made its formal recommendations to Moran. The academies will ultimately decide which students receive an admission appointment in early 2018, Moran’s news release said. Those selected will enter the academies in summer 2018. Click here to read more. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2017/11/clay-county-listening-tour-stop-clay-center Clay County Listening Tour Stop, Clay Center 2017-11-25 2017 2017-11 Republican House KS Jerry Moran M000934 www.moran.senate.gov     legacy Tour Stops Home Kansas Kansas Listening Tour Tour Stops CLAY COUNTYSaturday, November 25 at 9 a.m.Tasty PastryClay Center 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2017/11/marshall Marshall County Listening Tour Stop, Frankfort 2017-11-22 2017 2017-11 Republican House KS Jerry Moran M000934 www.moran.senate.gov     legacy Tour Stops Home Kansas Kansas Listening Tour Tour Stops MARSHALL COUNTYWednesday, November 22 at 10:30 a.m.Frankfort Education CenterFrankfort 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2017/11/sen-moran-announces-2017-united-states-service-academy-nominations Sen. Moran Announces 2017 United States Service Academy Nominations 2017-11-21 2017 2017-11 Republican House KS Jerry Moran M000934 www.moran.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) has nominated 42 Kansas students to enter the United States Service Academies as part of the class of 2018. “Having the chance to nominate some of Kansas’ best and brightest young people to our United States Service Academies is a distinct honor for me each year,” said Sen. Moran. “I am proud of each and every one of these students, who have demonstrated a commitment to service, the drive to succeed and tremendous dedication to our state and our nation.” Sen. Moran’s nominees include: United States Air Force Academy at Colorado Springs, Colo.Chad Buzzell, Overland Park Patrick Lim, Overland Park Allison Williams, Overland Park Camden Schieffer, Leawood Jacob Taylor, Shawnee Patrick Sullivan, Westwood Carson Davis, Gardner Marshall Kellner, De Soto Cole Dudley, Manhattan Cole Resnik, Topeka Carter Black, Wichita David McCune, Valley Center Glynn Smith, Leavenworth Leah Wiegers, Lansing Camden McFarland, Girard Charles Bermel, Lawrence Joseph Harms, Lawrence Parker Nemechek, Goodland Luke Socolofsky, Marion Dawson Williams, Dodge City United States Military Academy at West Point, N.Y.Jack Russell, Overland Park Karen Yan, Overland Park Hayley Murguia, Olathe Benjamin Hanson, Olathe Dennis Rice, Prairie Village James Sayles, Meriden Luke Windish, Wichita Zachary Bolen, Fort Leavenworth Gabriel Casmus, Lansing Abigail Waugh, Leavenworth United States Naval Academy at Annapolis, Md.Ryan Fitzgerald, Leawood Ernest Pereira, Leawood Thomas Finn, Overland Park Ansel Herndon, Overland Park Caden Merrick, Overland Park Carter Black, Wichita Kendal Davis, Wichita Jacob Ruder, Wichita Daniel Christie, Lansing Carson Lucas, Leavenworth United States Merchant Marines Academy at Kings Point, N.Y.Ernest Pereira, Leawood Ansel Herndon, Overland Park Caden Merrick, Overland Park Thomas Finn, Overland Park Logan Emery, Shawnee Katherine Baldessari, Wichita Kendal Davis, Wichita Jack Steiner, Andover Carson Lucas, Leavenworth Daniel Christ… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2017/11/sen-moran-calls-on-commerce-secretary-ross-to-conduct-economic-analysis-of-nafta-changes-to-ag-sector High Plains Journal: Sen. Moran calls on Commerce Secretary Ross to conduct economic analysis of NAFTA changes to ag sector 2017-11-21 2017 2017-11 Republican House KS Jerry Moran M000934 www.moran.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) this week signed a bipartisan letter to Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross asking the administration to conduct a robust economic analysis to evaluate how any changes to the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) would affect changes to the nation’s crop and livestock sectors. “It is imperative that before any changes are made to NAFTA, or any other free trade agreement, that economic analysis that illustrates the impact on the full supply chain of the industries involved be shared. As such, we request an economic analysis that examines and evaluates the impacts to crop and livestock sectors as a result of any change to NAFTA,” the senators wrote. As the world’s top exporter of food and agricultural products, U.S. agriculture depends on access to international markets in which to sell their products. With the fifth round of NAFTA renegotiations underway, the senators were clear that any changes to U.S. trade policy must be positive for agriculture, especially in a time when many farmers and ranchers are struggling financially. The bipartisan group of senators who wrote to Sec. Ross included Senators Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), John Boozman (R-Ark.), Roy Blunt (R-Mo.), John Cornyn (R-Tex.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.) Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Jaeff Flake (R-Ariz.), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Heidi Heitkamp (D-N.D.), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), Johnny Isakson (R-Ga.), Claire McCaskill (D-Mo.), Rob Portman (R-Ohio), Pat Roberts (R-Kan.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Luther Strange (R-Ala.), John Thune (R-S.D.) and Thom Tillis (R-N.D.). The full text of the letter is below. Dear Secretary Ross, As Senators representing states with significant agricultural economies, we write to you today to underscore the vital role that agriculture plays throughout our home states and across America. Given your recent comments regarding agriculture and international trade, we find it essential that Congress’ voice be heard. The U.S. is the world’s top exporter of food and agricultural products and is an impo… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2017/11/sen-moran-nominates-kansas-city-area-students-for-united-states-service-academies Sen. Moran Nominates Kansas City-Area Students for United States Service Academies 2017-11-21 2017 2017-11 Republican House KS Jerry Moran M000934 www.moran.senate.gov     legacy Sen. Moran with Chad Buzzell (top left), Patrick Lim (top middle), Allison Williams (top right), Thomas Finn (second row left), Ansel Herndon (second row middle), Caden Merrick (second row right), Camden Schieffer (third row left), Ryan Fitzgerald (third row middle), Ernest Pereira (third row right), Hayley Murguia (fourth row left), Logan Emery (fourth row middle), Dennis Rice (fourth row right), Patrick Sullivan (last row left), Carson Davis (last row middle) and Marshall Kellner (last row right). WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) has nominated 18 Kansas City-Area students for admission to a United States Service Academy. “Having the chance to nominate some of Kansas’ best and brightest young people to our United States Service Academies is a distinct honor for me each year,” said Sen. Moran. “I am proud of each and every one of these students, who have demonstrated a commitment to service, the drive to succeed and tremendous dedication to our state and our nation.” Students nominated from the Kansas City area include Chad Buzzell, Patrick Lim, Allison Williams, Karen Yan, Thomas Finn, Ansel Herndon and Caden Merrick of Overland Park; Camden Schieffer, Ryan Fitzgerald and Ernest Pereira of Leawood; Hayley Murguia and Benjamin Harrison of Olathe; Logan Emery and Jacob Taylor of Shawnee; Dennis Rice of Prairie Village; Patrick Sullivan of Westwood; Carson Davis of Gardner and Marshall Kellner of DeSoto. Photos of the students can be found here. Interviews took place at the Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library in Abilene. Sen. Moran’s Service Academy Selection Board considered more than 70 young Kansans interested in attending the U.S. Military Academy, U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Air Force Academy or the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. Academy nominees submit an application that includes a personal statement, resume, letters of reference, academic transcripts and standardized test scores. Following the interviews, the board made recommendations to Sen. Moran for his decision. Sen. Moran’s nomin… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2017/11/kansas-common-sense Kansas Common Sense - Sending My Bipartisan MGT Act to the Presidents Desk 2017-11-20 2017 2017-11 Republican House KS Jerry Moran M000934 www.moran.senate.gov     legacy Hello, Welcome to “Kansas Common Sense.” Thanks for your continued interest in receiving my weekly newsletter. Please feel free to forward it on to your family and friends if it would interest them. I hope you are able to spend quality time giving thanks with family and friends this Thanksgiving week. I’m thankful that you entrust me to fight for Kansas values in the United States Senate on your behalf. Happy Thanksgiving from Robba and me. Another Step Closer to Tax ReformThe Senate’s tax plan, which lowers corporate and individual tax rates, advanced out of the Senate Finance Committee on Thursday and will be debated by the full Senate after Thanksgiving. I will keep your thoughts in mind as we continue working toward a 21st century tax code that works for Kansans and their families. Sending My Bipartisan MGT Act to the President’s DeskOn Thursday, the Senate passed the conference report for the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for FY18, which included my MGT Act. This bipartisan legislation will propel our inefficient, outdated federal IT systems into the 21st century to promote productivity and strengthen cybersecurity. Passing the MGT Act will modernize our IT infrastructure and establish working capital funds in federal agencies to incentivize the replacement of these technological vulnerabilities. Providing this funding flexibility to IT management experts within agencies – with strong built-in oversight by Congress – positions the federal government to effectively and expeditiously upgrade our systems according to the continuously evolving cybersecurity threats at home and around the globe. In addition, nearly 75 percent of the $80 billion we are spending annually on federal IT systems is going toward maintaining and operating legacy IT rather than making lasting improvements. These improved efficiencies will end that practice and ultimately save billions of taxpayer dollars by reducing long-term spending. As Chairman of the Subcommittee of Consumer Protection, Product Safety, Insurance, and Data… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.roberts.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?p=PressReleases&ContentRecord_id=4482112F-10A3-4B74-9F5D-145445C3FE19 Senator Roberts Announces Service Academy Nominations 2017-11-20 2017 2017-11 Republican House KS Pat Roberts R000307 www.roberts.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC — U.S. Senator Pat Roberts (R-Kan.) today released the names of 37 Kansans who will receive his nomination for appointments to U.S. Service Academies entering the class of 2018. “I am proud to nominate this outstanding group of young men and women to our nation’s service academies,” Senator Roberts said. “This is a very impressive and highly competitive group of nominees who are outstanding representatives of Kansas in every way. It is great to see so many young Kansans seeking to serve in our nation’s military, and I wish all of our applicants the best.” Senator Roberts sent a video to all the students who received nominations, which can be viewed here. In making the nominations, Senator Roberts followed the recommendations of his Academy Screening Board. The nonpartisan board is comprised of eight volunteers from across Kansas and is overseen by Gilda Lintz, Senator Roberts’ District Director and Military Academy Coordinator in Topeka. As part of the decision-making process, board members conduct personal interviews with the applicants, as well as review their written applications, G.P.A. and standardized test scores. Once nominated by Senator Roberts, the applicants then must meet the individual admission requirements of each academy. The academies will make the final decision on who will receive an appointment of admission. Due to the limited number of openings at each academy, not every nominee will receive an appointment. The academies this spring will announce appointments for the class entering in July 2018. Senator Roberts’ nominees are as follows: United States Air Force Academy – Colorado Springs, CO Charles Bermel, Lawrence Carson Davis, Gardner Madison Beck, Olathe Jillian Hayne, Olathe Camden McFarland, Girard Cole Resnik, Topeka Cierra Robinson, Leavenworth Sara Rohleder, Hays Knox Tweed, Winchester Abigail Waugh, Leavenworth United States Naval Academy – Annapolis, MD Katherine Baldessari, Wichita Cole Dudley, Manhattan Thomas Finn, Overland Park Ryan Fitzgerald,… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2017/11/cloud-county Cloud County Listening Tour Stop, Concordia 2017-11-17 2017 2017-11 Republican House KS Jerry Moran M000934 www.moran.senate.gov     legacy Tour Stops Home Kansas Kansas Listening Tour Tour Stops CLOUD COUNTYFriday, November 17 at 10 a.m.Cloud County CourthouseConcordia 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=300 Estes Votes to Simplify and Lower Taxes 2017-11-16 2017 2017-11 Republican House KS Ron Estes E000298 estes.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON – Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas) issued the following statement following passage of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act: "For more than three decades, families have paid a growing cost for our country’s increasingly complex and burdensome tax code that's loaded with special interest loopholes. This isn’t fair to hardworking Kansans," said Rep. Estes. "That's why today I voted for the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act." "The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act will make it easy for families to file taxes by doubling the standard deduction. Under this bill, nine out of ten Americans will be able to file their taxes on a form the size of a postcard. Now, a single taxpayer won't pay taxes on their first $12,000 of income and a married couple won't pay on the first $24,000 of their income. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act is focused on growing the economy and will allow Kansans to keep more of their hard-earned money." Ron Estes is a 5th generation Kansan and represents Kansas’ 4th congressional district in the U.S. House of Representatives. He serves on the House Committee on Education and the Workforce, and the House Committee on Homeland Security. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=303 Estes Responds to Concerns About Testing Inert Chemicals in Northern Oklahoma 2017-11-16 2017 2017-11 Republican House KS Ron Estes E000298 estes.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON – Congressman Ron Estes issued the following statement after an information meeting concerning the Department of Homeland Security’s plans to test inert chemicals in northern Oklahoma: "It is clear that south central Kansans are concerned with the Department of Homeland Security’s plans to test inert chemicals in northern Oklahoma and I share those concerns," said Rep. Estes. "The process the Department used to inform residents was inadequate and I encourage Kansans to utilize the comment period to voice their opinions to DHS." "I am working with the community to make sure their questions are answered before any more action is taken. The citizens of Kansas have a right to know what is happening near their homes and I will do whatever it takes to keep our community safe." Ron Estes is a 5th generation Kansan and represents Kansas’ 4th congressional district in the U.S. House of Representatives. He serves on the House Committee on Education and the Workforce, and the House Committee on Homeland Security. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://lynnjenkins.house.gov/press-releases/congresswoman-jenkins-supports-house-tax-reform-legislation/ Congresswoman Jenkins Supports House Tax Reform Legislation 2017-11-16 2017 2017-11 Republican House KS Lynn Jenkins J000290 lynnjenkins.house.gov     legacy Today, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 1 – the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act which will help reform our broken tax code. Congresswoman Lynn Jenkins (KS-02), a member of the Ways and Means Committee that drafted the legislation, released the following statement after it passed the House: “After several years of working on tax reform, I am pleased to see the House has passed legislation that will permanently lower rates for hard-working individuals, families and businesses, along with preserving and expanding many popular tax provisions that will help folks keep more of their hard-earned money. We are one step closer to rewriting our broken tax code, one that will be fairer and simpler for all. Now, the Senate is beginning work on their tax reform legislation and I will continue to monitor it as it makes its way through the legislative process. Tax reform has a long way to go before coming law, so I encourage Kansans to read both pieces of legislation and contact my office with any thoughts – I always appreciate it.” (Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NFfacC0dBLY&feature=youtu.be)    Congresswoman Jenkins’ House Floor Speech: I thank the gentleman for yielding. I rise today in support of H.R. 1 – the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. As a CPA and member of the House Ways and Means Committee, reforming our tax code has been a priority of mine during my entire service in Congress. Our current tax code is broken and I’ve heard from thousands of Kansans in my district who are frustrated with the status quo.  This legislation will not only reform our broken tax code, but it will permanently lower rates for hard-working individuals, families and businesses, while retaining and expanding many popular provisions, such as the dependent care assistance program. It also includes strong safeguards that keep the wealthy from gaming the system in an effort to pay less than their fair share. On average, this legislation will help provide tax relief for all income groups across the board. If you don’t believe me, read the… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2017/11/bipartisan-bill-introduced-to-strengthen-opioid-safety-in-va-choice-program Bipartisan bill introduced to strengthen opioid safety in VA choice program 2017-11-16 2017 2017-11 Republican House KS Jerry Moran M000934 www.moran.senate.gov     legacy Stars and Stripes Bill GlauberDemocratic U.S. Sen. Tammy Baldwin and five others introduced bipartisan legislation Wednesday to strengthen opioid safety in the Department of Veterans Affairs. The legislation got a boost from Marvin and Linda Simcakoski, who traveled from Stevens Point to Washington, D.C., to support the effort. In August, 2014, their son, U.S. Marine veteran Jason Simcakoski, died as a result of "mixed drug toxicity" while being treated by doctors at the Tomah VA Medical Center. A 2016 law named after their son strengthened opioid prescribing practices and guidelines at the VA. In written testimony to a Senate committee, Marvin Simcakoski said the new legislation addresses concerns raised by an Inspector General's report "that shows veterans receiving care outside the VA don't have the same opioid prescribing and monitoring guidelines that Jason's Law requires inside the VA." "We need to stay vigilant and I am going to work my hardest to see that this legislation also gets across the finish line," Marvin Simcakoski said in his testimony. The VA choice program allows eligible veterans to receive health care from a community provider. Among its provisions, the legislation directs non-VA community care providers to submit opioid medications they prescribe to a veteran to a VA pharmacy for dispensing. The providers would also have to make sure the prescription is included in the VA database and the patient's medical record. Co-sponsors of the Senate bill include Republicans Shelley Moore Capito of West Virginia and Jerry Moran of Kansas, and Democrats Joe Manchin of West Virginia, Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut and Jon Tester of Montana. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2017/11/sen-moran-statement-on-tax-reform Sen. Moran Statement on Tax Reform 2017-11-16 2017 2017-11 Republican House KS Jerry Moran M000934 www.moran.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) today released the following statement regarding the Senate Finance Committee’s ongoing work, and in anticipation of U.S. House passage of tax reform: “I am determined to pass strong tax reform legislation to help American families keep more of their money, grow our economy and create jobs. Though I continue to support repealing the ACA’s individual mandate, I would have preferred not to add any dimension of healthcare to the tax reform debate, given that this will lessen the chances of having a bipartisan bill, making it less likely to last through future Congresses. My goal is to get a tax reform bill through the House and the Senate and deliver the reform the American people rightfully expect from us. This is a unique opportunity to increase freedom and liberty and promote the American Dream." ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2017/11/sens-moran-udall-s-mgt-act-included-in-fy18-ndaa-heads-to-president-s-desk Sens. Moran, Udalls MGT Act Included in FY18 NDAA, Heads to Presidents Desk 2017-11-16 2017 2017-11 Republican House KS Jerry Moran M000934 www.moran.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) and Tom Udall (D-N.M.) applauded the inclusion and passage of their Modernizing Government Technology (MGT) Act as part of the conference report on the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for FY2018. In September, Sen. Moran successfully included the MGT Act as an amendment to the NDAA for FY2018. This bipartisan legislation will encourage federal agencies to cut wasteful spending and modernize and strengthen government information technology (IT) and security. The MGT Act now heads to the President’s desk for signature. “This bipartisan legislation will propel our inefficient, outdated federal IT systems into the 21st century to promote productivity and strengthen cybersecurity,” said Sen. Moran. “Passing the landmark MGT Act will modernize our federal IT infrastructure by incentivizing federal agencies to expeditiously upgrade their systems – with strong built-in oversight by Congress – to continuously evolve and protect against cybersecurity threats at home and around the globe. In addition, nearly 75 percent of the $80 billion we are spending annually on federal IT systems is going toward maintaining and operating legacy IT rather than making lasting improvements. These improved efficiencies will end that practice and ultimately save billions of taxpayer dollars by reducing long-term spending. I’m pleased my colleagues on both sides of the aisle agree that IT investment reforms are an important step toward a more efficient, effective and secure government.” “Passage of the bipartisan MGT Act will save taxpayers many millions of dollars and strengthen our cybersecurity,” said Sen. Udall. “This major legislation will finally bring the federal government’s grossly outdated IT systems into the 21st century. As it stands, the federal government spends over $80 billion on IT – but 75 percent of that money is being spent to maintain old and legacy systems that date back to the time of dial-up modems and dot-matrix printers. The oldest were created in the 1960s. T… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.roberts.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?p=PressReleases&ContentRecord_id=228EB50E-902B-461F-8F93-5EB830E09979 Senator Roberts Applauds Senate Passage of Defense Bill 2017-11-16 2017 2017-11 Republican House KS Pat Roberts R000307 www.roberts.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Pat Roberts (R-Kan.) today applauded Senate passage of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) conference report. The legislation now goes to the president’s desk for signature. “The NDAA is one of the most critical pieces of legislation we pass as Congress,” said Roberts. “It provides funding to strengthen our military and increase preparedness for the many threats we face as a nation. This year’s bill also provides the largest pay raise for our service members since 2010 and ensures upgrades necessary to rebuild and modernize for future challenges. Lastly, it again includes a provision I have long fought for to prohibit any administration from transferring terrorists at Guantanamo Bay to the U.S. mainland. The U.S. has the greatest fighting force in the world, and this bill is essential to ensuring our military can fulfill its mission.” The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) authorizes funding for the U.S. military and our national security through Fiscal Year 2018. It been passed consecutively for 55 years to authorize funding for the Department of Defense and related programs. Specifically the bill: Authorizes $692 billion in funding for the Department of Defense and related programs for Fiscal Year 2018 Includes a pay increase for the military of 2.4 percent, the highest military pay raise since 2010 Prohibits a new round of Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) Provides for next-generation technology and protections against cyber warfare Reduces redundancy and promotes oversight in programs Allows for greater end-strength and preparedness in the military Authorizes research and development aimed to reduce the threat of nuclear weapons The legislation also includes a prohibition of the use of funds for the transfer or release of individuals detained at Guantanamo Bay to certain countries or anywhere on the U.S. mainland. Roberts led the charge in the Senate against the Obama administration’s attempts to close Guantanamo Bay and transfer the prisoners … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.roberts.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?p=PressReleases&ContentRecord_id=2F9E57D2-03A3-4535-B654-B305C9FC517B Senator Roberts Votes for Historic Tax Relief; Bill Now Heads to Senate Floor 2017-11-16 2017 2017-11 Republican House KS Pat Roberts R000307 www.roberts.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Pat Roberts, a senior member of the Senate Committee on Finance, today voted in favor of significant and historical tax relief for all Americans, to repeal the individual mandate in Obamacare and to boost economic growth by modernizing the tax code. The Finance Committee favorably reported the bill, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, with a vote of 14-12. “After years of work, the Finance Committee has put together a good bill focused on providing tax relief to middle income Americans,” Roberts said. “So many working families in Kansas need this meaningful relief. This bill, which includes many provisions supported by Democrats, will allow them to keep more of their hard-earned dollars and will help create new and better paying jobs.” Important provisions for Kansans in the bill: Doubles the child tax credit to $2,000, raises income caps allowing more middle-class families to claim it and indexes the credit to inflation. Lowers rates for low- and middle-income households, allowing them to keep more of their hard-earned dollars. Creates an employer credit for paid family and medical leave, encouraging flexible work arrangements to help meet the needs of 21st century working men and women. Protects 401(k) and Individual Retirement Accounts to help Americans build their retirement nest eggs and save for retirement. Maintains home mortgage interest deduction up to $1 million, incentivizing homeownership and providing tax relief to current and aspiring homeowners. The Tax Foundation estimates that under this bill, Kansans’ income will increase by $2,500 and 9,019 new jobs will be created. A typical family of four earning the median family income of around $73,000 will get a tax cut of nearly $1,500. A single parent with an income of $41,000 will see a 55 percent reduction in their tax bill.  “I am also proud of the pro-growth provisions I secured in the bill for farmers and ranchers, especially during this tough economy,” Roberts said.  Some of the provisions benefitting agricult… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://yoder.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/yoder-statement-on-passage-of-tax-cuts-and-jobs-act Yoder Statement on Passage of Tax Cuts and Jobs Act 2017-11-16 2017 2017-11 Republican House KS Kevin Yoder Y000063 yoder.house.gov     legacy Washington, DC – This afternoon, the House of Representatives passed the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act by a vote of 227-205. Representative Kevin Yoder (R-KS) issued the following statement after voting in favor of the bill: “Today, Congress is putting people ahead of politics. We’re passing historic, sweeping reforms that will fix the broken tax code in America for the first time in 30 years. “The typical family of four making the median household income of $59,000 – the middle class – will see a tax cut of nearly $1,200 under these reforms. On top of that, America will see real economic recovery we’ve been missing for the last ten years. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act will boost wages, according to non-partisan estimates, by nearly four and a half percent. As President John F. Kennedy used to say, ‘the rising tide lifts all boats.’ “More money in your pocket, higher wages on your paycheck – it’s a win for middle class, hardworking families all around. Importantly, the bill specifically targets help for families with children with the increased Child Tax Credit, creation of the Family Credit, and preservation of the Adoption Tax Credit. Through the process, I worked hard to preserve the child care tax credits and flex spending accounts for working moms and dads. “With these reforms, Americans across the country living paycheck to paycheck get relief from their tremendous tax burden. Those suffering from economic anxiety no longer need to navigate complex loopholes to figure out how the government wants to reward their behavior. They’ll have the freedom to choose how to spend their own money. And the lower you get down the economic ladder, the bigger the benefits of this bill get. The Joint Committee on Taxation shows that the biggest percent reduction in taxes paid goes to Americans making between $20,000 and $30,000. “The time for action is now. Like President Reagan once said, ‘there are no limits to growth and human progress when men and women are free to follow their dreams.’ Today, I’m proud to cast a vote for that free… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2017/11/an-open-letter-to-u-s-farmer-and-rancher-organizations An Open Letter to U.S. Farmer and Rancher Organizations 2017-11-15 2017 2017-11 Republican House KS Jerry Moran M000934 www.moran.senate.gov     legacy An Open Letter to U.S. Farmer and Rancher Organizations: While tax reform dominates the discussion in Washington, D.C., U.S. agriculture must not allow its focus to be diverted from the equally important issue of agricultural trade. Reforming our nation’s tax code is critical to growing the economy and can benefit all Americans. However, there will be little to no benefit of tax reform to farmers and ranchers if their ability to sell what they produce around the world is diminished. Coming from Kansas, the economic case for pro-agricultural trade policies is clear: my state exported more than $4.5 billion worth of agricultural products in 2016, generating more than $5.7 billion in economic activity and supporting more than 36,000 jobs. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), more than 20 percent of total U.S. agricultural products are exported. In Kansas, approximately 40 to 45 percent of planted acres any given year will utilize export markets. There are real Kansans behind these numbers who often get lost in the conversation: farmers and ranchers who hope to see the family operation stay in the hands of their kids and grandkids; teenagers and college students who want to return to the farm or ranch. The ability of a new generation of young producers to make a living in agriculture is impacted far more by the wheat, corn, cotton, and beef being exported each year than by any single tax deduction. And tax rates are irrelevant to the farmer or rancher who loses half of their income due to lost export markets. President Trump has been consistent in his criticism of trade deals, especially NAFTA, and every indication coming from the administration points toward outright withdrawal from the agreement. Terminating a major trade deal would be unprecedented, which may make the threat hard for some to take seriously. But I am convinced our country is headed down a path toward withdrawal from NAFTA unless action is taken by agricultural groups to change the administration’s course. This letter is … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2017/11/chairman-moran-questions-panel-on-potential-benefits-of-farming-technology Chairman Moran Questions Panel on Potential Benefits of Farming Technology 2017-11-15 2017 2017-11 Republican House KS Jerry Moran M000934 www.moran.senate.gov     legacy From left to right: Justin Knopf, Vice President, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) and Jason Tatge, Co-Founder and CEO of Farmobile.  WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) – Chairman of the Senate Commerce, Science and Technology Subcommittee on Consumer Protection, Product Safety, Insurance, and Data Security – yesterday questioned a panel of witnesses about potential benefits of advancements in agricultural technology and the collection and utilization of data in farming. The hearing included testimony from Kansas Association of Wheat Growers Vice President Justin Knopf and Farmobile Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer Jason Tatge, both from Kansas. “As our technological capabilities expand, we see more opportunities for the agricultural community to adopt tools such as field sensors, drones, satellite imagery, advanced machinery and many other similar pieces of technology as they work to increase crop yields and improve sustainable practices,” said Chairman Moran. “Not only can this technology make farming and ranching more efficient and successful, it has the potential to generate revenue for our ag community. For example, during today’s hearing, panelists agreed that the sale of ‘tradeable’ Electronic Field Records could return $1 billion in revenue to rural agricultural communities. There is great potential to these practices, and I appreciate the willingness of Kansans Justin Knopf and Jason Tatge to share their perspectives with our committee today as we work to make certain our farmers and ranchers can benefit from the increasing volume of quality data.” Additional witnesses included Mr. Todd J. Janzen, President, Janzen Agricultural Law, LLC, who grew up in south Central Kansas; Dr. Shannon Ferrell, Associate Professor, Oklahoma State University; and Dr. Dorota Haman, Professor and Chair, Department of Agricultural and Biological Engineering, University of Florida. Click here for more information about yesterday’s hearing. Chairman Moran’s opening state… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2017/11/nafta-access-to-markets-critical NAFTA: Access to markets critical 2017-11-15 2017 2017-11 Republican House KS Jerry Moran M000934 www.moran.senate.gov     legacy News Press Now There should be no surprise that Kansas’ two U.S. senators, both Republicans, are staking out positions that prioritize the free trade interests of Kansans. But brace yourself: If you hail from farm country, they want you to join their fight, and soon. Sens. Pat Roberts and Jerry Moran know the importance of tax reform in improving economic growth and boosting household incomes. They support that effort, as well as renegotiating sections of trade agreements that unfairly penalize segments of American industry. But they also are helpful in sounding alarms about wholesale scrapping of the North American Free Trade Agreement, which President Donald Trump has threatened. Since 1993, when the pact was signed into law, Roberts reports U.S. agricultural exports have increased 265 percent to Canada and 289 percent to Mexico. Moran notes Kansas exported more than $4.5 billion worth of agricultural products in 2016, and he says about 40 to 45 percent of planted acres in the state serve export markets. This is the context when the senators warn about what could happen if farm-state interests do not make their concerns known. “President Trump has been consistent in his criticism of trade deals, especially NAFTA, and every indication coming from the administration points toward outright withdrawal from the agreement,” Moran wrote in an open letter released Wednesday. “Terminating a major trade deal would be unprecedented, which may make the threat hard for some to take seriously. But I am convinced our country is headed down a path toward withdrawal from NAFTA unless action is taken by agricultural groups to change the administration’s course.” Roberts, meanwhile, recently has advocated for a grass-roots effort involving producers and other agribusiness leaders telling personal stories about what is at stake. “Everybody talks about numbers in Washington and so it just seems to me that we can make a better point if we make it very personal,” he said. Both men make clear they are not criticizing individuals or ag… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2017/11/roberts-moran-express-support-for-washburn-law-grad-facing-senate-confirmation-for-judgeship Roberts, Moran express support for Washburn Law grad facing Senate confirmation for judgeship 2017-11-15 2017 2017-11 Republican House KS Jerry Moran M000934 www.moran.senate.gov     legacy The Topeka Captial Journal Allison KiteU.S. Sens. Pat Roberts and Jerry Moran on Wednesday stressed their support for Wichita lawyer John Broomes, who was nominated by President Donald Trump to become a federal district judge in Wichita. The Republican senators from Kansas introduced Broomes before his confirmation hearing in front of the U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee. The committee and Senate have not yet voted on his nomination. Roberts said he could not think of anyone more qualified for the judgeship. “Mr. Chairman, Mr. Broomes has my strongest possible support,” Roberts said. “He has already pledged an oath to protect the Constitution as an officer in the U.S. Navy. I have no reservation that he will uphold our Constitution as the Founding Fathers envisioned it.” Moran also stressed his support. “John Broomes is a highly qualified, well-respected attorney with the mentality, the intellect and the legal mind that we should find for those that receive a lifetime appointment to the federal bench,” Moran said. Broomes, a Wichita native, holds degrees from the University of Texas and Washburn University School of Law. He currently works at Hinkle Law Firm, where he practices resources law. Click here to read more. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2017/11/sen-moran-introduces-kansan-john-broomes-before-senate-judiciary-committee Sen. Moran Introduces Kansan John Broomes Before Senate Judiciary Committee 2017-11-15 2017 2017-11 Republican House KS Jerry Moran M000934 www.moran.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) today introduced Mr. John W. Broomes of Wichita, Kan., as the Senate Judiciary Committee considered his nomination to serve as a District Judge on the U.S. District Court for the District of Kansas. “John Broomes is a highly qualified, well-respected attorney with the mentality, the intellect and the legal mind that we should find for those that receive a lifetime appointment to the federal bench,” said Sen. Moran. “I also appreciate his Naval service – there is no group of people I hold in higher regard than those who have served our country in the military, and again, it demonstrates what kind of individual he is by that service.” If confirmed, Mr. Broomes will serve as a District Judge on the U.S. District Court for the District of Kansas. Mr. Broomes earned his J.D. at Washburn University School of Law, where he graduated first in his class. Below is the biography provided by the White House at the time of Mr. Broomes’s nomination: John Broomes is currently a Member of the Hinkle Law Firm LLC, where he practices in the firm’s Business Litigation Group with a focus on natural resources law.  Earlier in his career, Mr. Broomes served as a law clerk to both Judge Monti L. Belot and Magistrate Judge Donald W. Bostwick on the U.S. District Court for the District of Kansas.  Before entering law school, Mr. Broomes was a Lieutenant in the United States Navy Submarine Force, where his awards included the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal and three Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals.  Mr. Broomes received his B.S., with high honors, from the University of Texas at Austin.  He received his J.D. from Washburn University School of Law, where he graduated first in his class with a Certificate in natural resources law. Click here to view Sen. Moran’s full remarks in support.  # # # 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2017/11/sen-moran-introduces-kansan-john-broomes-to-the-senate-judiciary-committee Sen. Moran Introduces Kansan John Broomes to the Senate Judiciary Committee 2017-11-15 2017 2017-11 Republican House KS Jerry Moran M000934 www.moran.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) today introduced Mr. John W. Broomes of Wichita, Kan., as the Senate Judiciary Committee considered his nomination to serve as a District Judge on the U.S. District Court for the District of Kansas. “John Broomes is a highly qualified, well-respected attorney with the mentality, the intellect and the legal mind that we should find for those that receive a lifetime appointment to the federal bench,” said Sen. Moran. “I also appreciate his Naval service – there is no group of people I hold in higher regard than those who have served our country in the military, and again, it demonstrates what kind of individual he is by that service.” If confirmed, Mr. Broomes will serve as a District Judge on the U.S. District Court for the District of Kansas. Mr. Broomes earned his J.D. at Washburn University School of Law, where he graduated first in his class. Below is the biography provided by the White House at the time of Mr. Broomes’s nomination: John Broomes is currently a Member of the Hinkle Law Firm LLC, where he practices in the firm’s Business Litigation Group with a focus on natural resources law.  Earlier in his career, Mr. Broomes served as a law clerk to both Judge Monti L. Belot and Magistrate Judge Donald W. Bostwick on the U.S. District Court for the District of Kansas.  Before entering law school, Mr. Broomes was a Lieutenant in the United States Navy Submarine Force, where his awards included the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal and three Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals.  Mr. Broomes received his B.S., with high honors, from the University of Texas at Austin.  He received his J.D. from Washburn University School of Law, where he graduated first in his class with a Certificate in natural resources law. Click here to view Sen. Moran’s full remarks in support. # # # 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2017/11/sen-moran-sends-open-letter-to-farmer-and-rancher-organizations-regarding-the-threat-of-nafta-withdrawal Sen. Moran Sends Open Letter to Farmer and Rancher Organizations Regarding the Threat of NAFTA Withdrawal 2017-11-15 2017 2017-11 Republican House KS Jerry Moran M000934 www.moran.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) authored an open letter – first published in Agri-Pulse – to agricultural organizations regarding the threat of NAFTA withdrawal and urged them to advocate for sound trade policy. With low commodity prices and declining farm revenues, the rural economy cannot afford to lose out on export markets. The timing of Sen. Moran’s call to action coincides with a letter 168 agriculture groups sent today to all 50 governors regarding the “importance of NAFTA to the U.S. food and agriculture industry and to express concern about the potential of a withdrawal from this critical trade agreement.” ****** November 14, 2017 An Open Letter to U.S. Farmer and Rancher Organizations: While tax reform dominates the discussion in Washington, D.C., U.S. agriculture must not allow its focus to be diverted from the equally important issue of agricultural trade. Reforming our nation’s tax code is critical to growing the economy and can benefit all Americans. However, there will be little to no benefit of tax reform to farmers and ranchers if their ability to sell what they produce around the world is diminished. Coming from Kansas, the economic case for pro-agricultural trade policies is clear: my state exported more than $4.5 billion worth of agricultural products in 2016, generating more than $5.7 billion in economic activity and supporting more than 36,000 jobs. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), more than 20 percent of total U.S. agricultural products are exported. In Kansas, approximately 40 to 45 percent of planted acres any given year will utilize export markets. There are real Kansans behind these numbers who often get lost in the conversation: farmers and ranchers who hope to see the family operation stay in the hands of their kids and grandkids; teenagers and college students who want to return to the farm or ranch. The ability of a new generation of young producers to make a living in agriculture is impacted far more by the wheat, corn, cotton, and bee… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.roberts.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?p=PressReleases&ContentRecord_id=41BA3879-B5C5-4488-845D-564E34E40912 Senator Roberts Introduces Judge Nominee John Broomes before the Senate Judiciary Committee 2017-11-15 2017 2017-11 Republican House KS Pat Roberts R000307 www.roberts.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Pat Roberts (R-Kan.) today introduced President Trump’s nominee John Broomes, of Wichita, to be Federal District Court Judge for the District of Kansas at his nomination hearing before the Senate Judiciary Committee. “I cannot think of a more qualified individual for this position,” said Roberts. “Mr. Broomes has not only served the Kansas judicial system well, as both a clerk for a U.S. District Judge and a U.S. Magistrate Judge, but he has also served our great country, rising to the rank of Second Lieutenant in the United States Navy. Mr. Broomes has my strongest possible support.” For video of Senator Roberts’ introduction, go here. Below are the senator’s full remarks, as prepared for delivery: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. It is an honor and a privilege to be here this morning to introduce Mr. John Broomes, the Nominee for the United States Federal District Judge for Wichita, Kansas. Mr. Chairman, I cannot think of a more qualified individual for this position. A native of Wichita, Mr. Broomes graduated with top honors from both the University of Texas at Austin, as well as the Washburn University School of Law. Mr. Broomes has not only served the Kansas judicial system well, as both a clerk for a U.S. District Judge and a U.S. Magistrate Judge, but he has also served our great country, rising to the rank of Second Lieutenant in the United States Navy’s “Silent Service,” better known as the Naval Submarine Force. Most recently, he has been a member at the Hinkle Law Firm in Wichita, where he practices in their resource law division, and has acquired vast trial experience, which will be sure to suit him well during his judgeship. Mr. Chairman, Mr. Broomes has my strongest possible support. He has already pledged an oath to protect the Constitution as an officer in the U.S. Navy. I have no reservation that he will uphold our Constitution as the Founding Fathers envisioned it. The nominee will be voted on by the full Judiciary Committee at a later date and then approved by the… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2017/11/kansas-common-sense-commemorating-veterans-day Kansas Common Sense - Commemorating Veterans Day 2017-11-13 2017 2017-11 Republican House KS Jerry Moran M000934 www.moran.senate.gov     legacy Hello, Welcome to “Kansas Common Sense.” Thanks for your continued interest in receiving my weekly newsletter. Please feel free to forward it on to your family and friends if it would interest them. Commemorating Veterans DayI hope you had a chance this weekend to remember the many veterans who have laid their lives on the line for our great nation. I’m so grateful to our country’s veterans –and particularly those in Kansas. None of us would have the opportunities we have and our country wouldn’t be what it is today without the sacrifice and courage of those who served in our military. A grateful nation offers our salute to you this Veterans Day. I’ll never forget the pride and emotion I felt when visiting the National World War II Memorial in Washington, D.C. for the first time, days before its dedication. Standing below the Kansas pillar, I called my dad – a World War II army veteran – to tell him how much I respected him, how grateful I was for him and that I loved him. I hope we can all echo those words to our veterans each and every day: we respect you, we thank you for your service and we love you. Please click here to watch a video message.  Effingham Veterans Day ProgramI joined the students of Atchison County Community Junior-Senior High School to celebrate and honor the veterans in their community on Friday morning. The students interviewed military personnel to create a video to share as part of the celebration and to pay tribute to their sacrifices. It was great to see the students’ respect and appreciation for those who have served to protect our way of life. Thanks to Principal Deanna Scherer for the opportunity to join the students in expressing our gratitude to those who have served and to the National Honor Society students who did a great job planning the celebration. Kensington Veterans Day CeremonyI joined the Kensington community to commemorate Veterans Day at the American Legion Fred Marran Post #166. I enjoyed meeting with many veterans and family members of those who have served. My thanks… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.roberts.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?p=PressReleases&ContentRecord_id=42585390-2537-4413-936A-AC22C3F4EF36 Senator Roberts: Tax Cuts and Jobs Act is Meaningful Relief for Middle Income Americans 2017-11-13 2017 2017-11 Republican House KS Pat Roberts R000307 www.roberts.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC – On the first day of the U.S. Senate Committee on Finance’s consideration of historical tax reform legislation, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, U.S. Senator Pat Roberts (R-Kan.) said the bill is meaningful reform for middle income Americans and provides $2,500 in tax relief to Kansas families. Roberts is a senior member of the Finance Committee which has jurisdiction on taxes. For audio and video, go here. “All of us on the Finance Committee understand the burdens, complexity, and lack of competitiveness associated with our antiquated tax system,” said Roberts. “It acts as a brake on our economy.” “We have now before us a comprehensive plan to address these issues, cleaning up and modernizing the tax code to help generate more growth in the economy. The bill before us is meaningful tax relief for families, and small businesses. We have done a good job pushing these rate reductions down to lower and middle-income families, providing a net tax cut for families in Kansas of about $2,500.” The Senate Finance Committee will “mark-up” the bill this week, considering bipartisan amendments before reporting out the bill to the full Senate for debate and a vote. The House of Representatives considers its own version of a tax reform bill this week. The following are Senator Roberts’ remarks as prepared for delivery: Mr. Chairman, I want to think you for your leadership in laying down this mark. We all understand how critical tax reform is. All of us on the Finance Committee in particular, understand the burdens, complexity, and lack of competitiveness associated with our current tax system. It is abundantly clear that this complexity and our antiquated corporate tax system act as a brake on our economy. We have now before us a comprehensive plan to address these issues, cleaning up and modernizing the tax code, to help generate more growth in the economy. The bill before us does exactly that, providing meaningful tax relief for families, and small businesses. I am especially pleased with the rates and br… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=292 Estes Statement on Proposed DHS Chemical Tests 2017-11-09 2017 2017-11 Republican House KS Ron Estes E000298 estes.house.gov     legacy WICHITA —Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas) issued the following statement on the proposed Department of Homeland Security chemical tests at the Chilocco Indian School campus:  "I'm monitoring the situation closely and have been in contact with officials at the Department of Homeland Security," said Rep. Estes. "As a member of the House Committee on Homeland Security, I have numerous questions regarding this proposed test. While it's important for our federal agencies to test their abilities in response to threats, we need to be one hundred percent certain this test is safe for the residents of South Central Kansas."  Ron Estes is a 5th generation Kansan and represents Kansas’ 4th congressional district in the U.S. House of Representatives. He serves on the House Committee on Education and the Workforce, and the House Committee on Homeland Security. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://lynnjenkins.house.gov/press-releases/congresswoman-jenkins-statement-on-tax-reform-legislation/ Congresswoman Jenkins' Statement on Tax Reform Legislation 2017-11-09 2017 2017-11 Republican House KS Lynn Jenkins J000290 lynnjenkins.house.gov     legacy Congresswoman Lynn Jenkins (KS-02), a member of the Ways and Means Committee that drafted the legislation, released the following statement after it was voted out of committee: “As a CPA, reforming our tax code has been a priority of mine during my service in Congress. Our current tax code is broken and I’ve heard from Kansans who are frustrated with the status quo.  “Not only will this legislation reform our broken tax code, but it will permanently lower tax rates for families and businesses, it includes popular benefits such as the dependent care assistance program for hard-working families and will provide a much needed tax cut for hard-working individuals. This will be a tax code that rewards individuals and families for their hard-work and helps them keep more of their hard-earned money. For example, a middle-income family of four in my district would get an average tax cut of $1,823. “Additionally, I would encourage folks to read the actual legislation before accepting inaccurate reports that this federal tax proposal is similar to the 2012 Kansas tax cut package. This legislation could not be more different as the federal proposal is not eliminating small business rates like Kansas did. Furthermore, we are also implementing a number of safeguards to prevent the type of tax avoidance that was possible in the Kansas plan – including our 70/30 rule. “While I continue to work on improving this legislation, I am pleased this bill has passed the Ways and Means Committee and is now headed to the House floor for further debate. In the coming weeks, as this legislation winds its way through the legislative process, I look forward to meeting and speaking with Kansans on tax reform and sharing their views with my colleagues. Our tax code has not been updated in roughly 30 years. It is imperative that we get this accomplished.” 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2017/11/sen-moran-applauds-progress-on-nomination-of-kansan-holly-teeter Sen. Moran Applauds Progress on Nomination of Kansan Holly Teeter 2017-11-09 2017 2017-11 Republican House KS Jerry Moran M000934 www.moran.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) today issued the following statement applauding the Senate Judiciary Committee’s bipartisan vote of 19-1 in favor of the nomination of Kansan Holly Teeter, whom the President has nominated as a federal judge for the United States District Court for the District of Kansas: “I’m pleased that my Senate Judiciary Committee colleagues voted overwhelmingly today to move Ms. Teeter’s nomination forward so that she can be considered by the full Senate,” said Sen. Moran. “Her extensive qualifications, exemplary temperament and years of experience make her highly qualified to serve Kansans in this role as a federal judge. I look forward to voting to confirm her to this position, which has been vacant for the last three years, where I am confident she will be a dedicated servant of the law.” Sen. Moran attended this morning’s Senate Judiciary Committee hearing to show his support for Ms. Teeter. He also introduced Ms. Teeter to the Senate Judiciary Committee last month as the Committee began consideration of her nomination. Ms. Teeter comes highly recommended by her peers and colleagues. “Holly Teeter is exceptionally well qualified to serve as a United States District Judge,” said The Honorable Deanell Tacha (Ret.), formerly of the United States Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit. “She has had 11 years of very significant legal experience, and, in particular, has served with distinction as a federal law clerk to Judge Murguia. She brings to the bench outstanding analytical, writing, and interpersonal skills. She is known for her dedicated work ethic and ability to bring to complex legal issues both probing legal analysis and a keen sense of the impact of decisions on the people and institutions that her work impacts. She will be a dedicated and thoughtful public servant who will serve the courts and the nation with her characteristic commitment to excellence in all she does.” “In addition to her legal ability, Holly has consistently demonstrated a temperament appropriate f… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z

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