Press releases
Data license: MIT · Data source: dwillis/congress-press
- url
- Link to the original release on the member's official site
- text
- Extracted body text (may be empty if the page could not be fetched)
- has_text
- 1 if body text was successfully extracted
- date_source
- How the publication date was determined
- bioguide_id
- Bioguide ID of the member
687 rows where state = "MN" and year = 2016 sorted by date descending
This data as json, CSV (advanced)
| 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://mccollum.house.gov/taxonomy/statements-for-the-record/mccollum-statement-honoring-career-doug-peterson | McCollum Statement Honoring Career of Doug Peterson | 2016-12-30 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Betty McCollum | M001143 | mccollum.house.gov | legacy | Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute and honor the career of Doug Peterson, who will retire from his position as President of the Minnesota Farmers Union on December 31, 2016. Doug has worked dutifully on behalf of the people of Minnesota for more than two decades, serving in the Minnesota State Legislature from 1990 to 2002 before leading the Minnesota Farmers Union from 2002 through 2016. It was my profound honor to serve with Doug in the Minnesota State Legislature for eight years. Having had the opportunity to work closely with him on the Environment and Natural Resources Committee and later on the Environment, Natural Resources and Agriculture Finance Committee, I was able to see first-hand the level of expertise and commitment Doug brought to his work. From our time serving together in the Minnesota State Legislature, Doug became, and still remains a dear friend of mine. Few people have had more of a positive and lasting impact on Minnesota agriculture policy than Doug. A fierce advocate for Minnesota’s family farmers, Doug has worked tirelessly to shape and promote policies that protect their financial interests. His ability to speak both for and to the farming community was most recently acknowledged when he was awarded with the 2016 Distinguished Friend of Extension by the University of Minnesota. His leadership as the head of the Minnesota Farmers Union and work with Extension has advanced family farming and helped ensure that farmers are provided with the tools they need on and off the farm to succeed. Mr. Speaker, please join me in honoring the distinguished career of Doug Peterson and his tremendous work on behalf of the people of Minnesota. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://nolan.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/nolan-statement-on-keetac-reopening | Nolan Statement on Keetac Reopening | 2016-12-29 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Rick Nolan | N000127 | nolan.house.gov | legacy | U.S. Rep. Rick Nolan today released the following statement regarding Keetac’s reopening: "Keetac's reopening is wonderful news for the Iron Range. In my conversations with U.S. Steel executives, it appears that this will bring back in the neighborhood of 200 good-paying jobs to our region at its commencement. This accomplishment is the result of a team effort with the mining companies, steelworkers, the Obama Administration and those of us in Washington who have championed the cause of securing high tariffs and taxes on subpar, low-quality steel subsidized by foreign governments and dumped into our market by trade-cheater nations. These high tariffs and taxes have already shown great results for our American mining industry, and they will continue to improve market conditions over the next 5 years. After countless hours testifying before the International Trade Commission and Department of Commerce, working with the Administration, and bringing White House Chief of Staff Denis McDonough to the Iron Range to see the devastating impact of steel dumping during what many have called 'the day that changed everything,' I am thrilled to see this enormous, positive step." | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://nolan.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/nolan-statement-on-keetac-reopening-0 | Nolan Statement on Keetac Reopening | 2016-12-29 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Rick Nolan | N000127 | nolan.house.gov | legacy | U.S. Rep. Rick Nolan today released the following statement regarding Keetac’s reopening: "Keetac's reopening is wonderful news for the Iron Range. In my conversations with U.S. Steel executives, it appears that this will bring back in the neighborhood of 200 good-paying jobs to our region at its commencement. This accomplishment is the result of a team effort with the mining companies, steelworkers, the Obama Administration and those of us in Washington who have championed the cause of securing high tariffs and taxes on subpar, low-quality steel subsidized by foreign governments and dumped into our market by trade-cheater nations. These high tariffs and taxes have already shown great results for our American mining industry, and they will continue to improve market conditions over the next 5 years. After countless hours testifying before the International Trade Commission and Department of Commerce, working with the Administration, and bringing White House Chief of Staff Denis McDonough to the Iron Range to see the devastating impact of steel dumping during what many have called 'the day that changed everything,' I am thrilled to see this enormous, positive step." | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://mccollum.house.gov/press-release/mccollum-statement-designation-bears-ears-and-gold-butte-national-monuments | McCollum Statement on Designation of Bears Ears and Gold Butte National Monuments | 2016-12-29 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Betty McCollum | M001143 | mccollum.house.gov | legacy | Congresswoman Betty McCollum (DFL-Minn.) released the following statement after President Barack Obama used his power under the Antiquities Act to create the Bears Ears and Gold Butte National Monuments: "With the designation of the Bears Ears National Monument, President Obama has taken a bold and decisive step to protect one of our nation’s greatest ancient cultural and natural areas. The more than 1.3 million acres that make up Bears Ears National Monument include places of both unparalleled natural beauty and strong spiritual significance for many Native Americans. After eight decades of effort, these sacred sites, archaeological gems, and spectacular vistas will finally have the protection that they deserve. "This action would not have been possible without the dedicated advocacy of a historic coalition of sovereign Native American tribes, including the Hopi Nation, Navajo Nation, Ute Mountain Ute Tribe, Ute Indian Tribe of the Uintah Ouray, and Zuni Tribe. I applaud their tireless work and am very pleased that they will be included in a newly-formed Bears Ears Commission with input over the management of these sacred sites and treasured spaces. The protection of Bears Ears, and the additional designation of the Gold Butte National Monument, exemplifies the Obama Administration’s extraordinary commitment to the preservation of our national treasures and unprecedented collaboration with tribal nations." | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://mccollum.house.gov/press-release/mccollum-statement-sanctions-against-russia-over-election-attacks | McCollum Statement on White House Actions Responding to Russia's Election Attacks | 2016-12-29 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Betty McCollum | M001143 | mccollum.house.gov | legacy | Congresswoman Betty McCollum (DFL-Minn.) released the following statement after the White House announced sanctions against Russian officials and government entities for cyber attacks interfering with the 2016 presidential election: "Russian hacking during the 2016 presidential election was an attack on American democracy. Earlier this month, I urged President Obama to respond proportionally, forcefully, and unequivocally, including by applying sanctions and expelling Russian officials. "Today, President Obama did just that: imposing new sanctions on Russia, ejecting Russian operatives from the United States, and preparing to make public the evidence our government has collected that implicates the highest levels of Russia's government in this attack. I strongly support these decisive steps. "Instead of playing partisan games and vilifying our intelligence professionals, President-elect Donald Trump should join us, demand a fully transparent Congressional investigation into this hacking, and maintain strong pressure on Russia's government." | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=CF5891F0-FC05-4C40-B2D9-78424E776967 | Year in Review: Klobuchar Worked Across the Aisle to Find Common Ground and Pass More Than 30 Bipartisan Bills Into Law During This Congress | 2016-12-29 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Amy Klobuchar | K000367 | www.klobuchar.senate.gov | legacy | Last month, a Medill News Service analysis of legislative data from the independent congressional tracking website GovTrack ranked Klobuchar first on a list of all 100 senators for bills signed into law during this Congress WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar has passed more than 30 bipartisan bills into law during this Congress. The bipartisan bills Klobuchar passed included measures to treat and prevent opioid abuse, improve job opportunities and access to medical care for veterans, fight human trafficking, support fish and wildlife restoration in the Great Lakes, and develop a strong science and engineering workforce for a 21st century economy. Klobuchar also led the push to crack down on steel dumping and strengthen the Renewable Fuel Standard, among other efforts. Last month, a Medill News Service analysis of legislative data from the independent congressional tracking website GovTrack ranked Klobuchar first on a list of all 100 senators with bills signed into law during this Congress. “When we put partisanship aside and put people first, we get results. This year, we passed legislation that will really make a difference in the lives of Minnesotans,” Klobuchar said. “As we head into the new Congress, I’m committed to finding common ground and working on solutions to our toughest challenges—from reducing prescription drug costs and improving infrastructure to bolstering rural America and reforming campaign finance laws.” Below are some highlights of legislation passed and efforts that Klobuchar led in 2016: Treating and preventing opioid abuse Klobuchar was one of four senators, along with Senators Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Rob Portman (R-OH), and Kelly Ayotte (R-NH), to lead the Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act (CARA). This bipartisan bill, which was signed into law this summer, encourages states and local communities to pursue a full array of proven strategies in the fight against opioid addiction. At the end of this year, $1 billion was made available by Congress to fund the na… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://franken.senate.gov/?p=press_release&id=3594 | Sen. Franken Releases Responses From Uber, Lyft on Discrimination against Customers | 2016-12-28 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Al Franken | F000457 | franken.senate.gov | legacy | A month after pressing popular ride-hailing companies Uber and Lyft to explain a recent study documenting driver discrimination against minority customers, U.S. Sen. Al Franken (D-Minn.) released the companies' responses today. You can read a copy of the response letter from Uber here and from Lyft here.Sen. Franken called the responses from both Uber and Lyft detailed, and said that going forward, he plans to continue working with the companies to ensure against bias and discrimination."As consumers in Minnesota and across our country come to rely more heavily on services provided online or through apps connected to the gig economy, it's vital that companies take steps to ensure that new technologies do not give cover to discrimination or bias," said Sen. Franken. "I appreciate the steps that both Uber and Lyft have taken to address my concerns regarding discrimination against consumers, including meeting with the authors of a recent study, communicating with their drivers about the companies' nondiscrimination policies, and monitoring available metrics about ride cancellations. But I remain concerned that certain elements of an app's platform design-like allowing drivers to see a rider's name or photo before accepting a ride request-do not sufficiently guard against discriminatory conduct. I have expressed these concerns to the companies, and I look forward to working with them to address these challenges." According to a recent study, African Americans who use these ride-hailing smartphone apps face longer wait times to get accepted by drivers, and riders with African-American-sounding names are more than twice as likely to have their rides canceled. Beyond that, some women passengers reported being taken on longer rides than men. In response, Sen. Franken reached out for clarification about how both companies plan to better guard against the kind of rider discrimination detailed in the study. You can read his letter to Uber and Lyft here. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://mccollum.house.gov/press-release/mccollum-shares-views-israeli-palestinian-peace-process | McCollum Shares Views on Israeli-Palestinian Peace Process | 2016-12-28 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Betty McCollum | M001143 | mccollum.house.gov | legacy | Congresswoman Betty McCollum made the following comments on her Facebook page after Secretary of State John Kerry delivered an address on the state of the Israeli-Palestinian peace process: "A two-state solution is only possible when there are partners who are willing to make the hard choices that advance peace. Right now, it appears that neither Israel nor the Palestinians are willing to make the sacrifices needed to resolve their longstanding conflict. "Last week, the United Nations took a very appropriate step by condemning the ongoing construction of illegal Israeli settlements, one of the most serious obstacles to peace. Today, Secretary John Kerry outlined other difficult — but critical — steps that must be taken by Israel and the Palestinians to achieve a durable and lasting peace. "Unfortunately, the incoming Trump-Pence administration has already embraced the extreme policies of the Netanyahu government that are designed to make a Palestinian state impossible. Instead of playing such a divisive role, the United States should be working to urge both Israel and the Palestinians to embrace justice and human rights and bring a lasting end to this conflict." | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://paulsen.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=22&itemid=1860 | Paulsen Creates Judicial Selection Committee for Minnesota Federal District Court Vacancies | 2016-12-27 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Republican | House | MN | Erik Paulsen | P000594 | paulsen.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C.– Congressman Erik Paulsen (MN-03) announced the formation of a judicial selection committee to review candidates and make recommendations to President-elect Trump to fill two vacancies on Minnesota’s federal district court. The committee will be co-chaired by former Chief Justice of the Minnesota Supreme Court Kathleen Blatz, and Bert McKasy, of counsel attorney at Lindquist & Vennum, former state representative, and former commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Commerce. Committee members include Russell Anderson, former Chief Justice of the Minnesota Supreme Court; Terry Dempsey, former state representative and Fifth Judicial District judge; Gary Haugen, of counsel attorney at Maslon LLP and faculty member at Vanderbilt University; Rick Morgan, partner at Bowman and Brooke and former assistant U.S. attorney; Dan Rosen, a preeminent trial lawyer and board member of the American-Israel Public Affairs Committee and Jewish Community Relationship Council of Minnesota; John Stanoch, former interim president of the Minneapolis Regional Chamber of Commerce, former chief deputy attorney general for the State of Minnesota and a former president of Qwest Communications and chief executive of the Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Upper Midwest. “This committee is made up of some of Minnesota’s brightest legal minds, with an extremely diverse breadth of professional experience,”said Paulsen. “I have full confidence in their ability to identify the most-qualified individuals to apply the law in a fair manner, and to ensure equal treatment under the law to all Minnesotans. I look forward to reviewing the committee’s work and recommending candidates to the President-elect who will serve Minnesota faithfully.” The new committee will meet in January to begin the process of accepting applications and reviewing candidates to be nominated to the President-elect to fill these vacancies. Congressman Paulsen, a champion of small business and advocate of free enterprise, entrepreneurship, … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://walz.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-walz-statement-on-faribault-tragedy | Rep. Walz Statement on Faribault Tragedy | 2016-12-26 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Tim Walz | W000799 | walz.house.gov | legacy | [MANKATO, MN] – Today, Representative Tim Walz released the following statement regarding the tragedy that took place at the Chamber of Commerce in Faribault, MN: “Our hearts and prayers go out to the families and loved ones of those whose lives were tragically taken last Friday. No one should ever have to endure such unthinkable pain and suffering. My wife Gwen and I extend our sincerest condolences to the Faribault Chamber, the Faribault community, and all those now faced with such heartbreaking loss. We mourn with you this holiday season.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-statement-obama-administrations-refusal-support-israel | Emmer Statement on Obama Administration's Refusal to Support Israel | 2016-12-23 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Republican | House | MN | Tom Emmer | E000294 | emmer.house.gov | legacy | Otsego, MN – Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) released the following statement on the Obama Administration’s refusal to support Israel through today’s United Nation Security Council Resolution vote:“I am beyond disappointed that rather than standing with our strongest ally in the Middle East, the Obama Administration chose to isolate the nation of Israel. Even worse, the Administration has indicated it will not use its veto power to halt this resolution from being put in place. Today’s vote, or lack thereof from the United States, is an incredible setback for the future of peace in Israel and the Middle East as a whole. I am confident that the incoming Administration is committed to upholding and strengthening our relationship with Israel and look forward to supporting those efforts.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://mccollum.house.gov/press-release/mccollum-comments-un-vote-condemning-illegal-israeli-settlements | McCollum Comments on UN Vote Condemning Illegal Israeli Settlements | 2016-12-23 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Betty McCollum | M001143 | mccollum.house.gov | legacy | Congresswoman Betty McCollum made the following comments on her Facebook page after the United Nations Security Council voted 14-0, with the United States abstaining, to condemn the illegal expansion of Israeli settlements: "Illegal Israeli settlement expansion is extinguishing the prospects for a two-state solution and the creation of a Palestinian state. I join the United Nations Security Council and all who seek peace in the Middle East in condemning the destructive and uncontrolled Israeli settlements. "I applaud President Obama for allowing the U.N. Security Council to approve the anti-settlement resolution by a vote of 14-0, with the United States abstaining. Only justice and human rights will bring a lasting peace to Israelis and Palestinians." | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://collinpeterson.house.gov/rep-petersons-newsletter-10222016 | Rep. Peterson's Newsletter 10/22/2016 | 2016-12-22 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Collin Peterson | P000258 | collinpeterson.house.gov | legacy | The National Christmas Tree Dear Friends, As we close out 2016, I’d like to take the time to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. This week I joined KLGR radio to discuss the upcoming Farm Bill, visited Lake Park to discuss local agricultural issues, and learned more about the ways our community is helping others. Finally, I’d like to send a very special thank you to two of my retiring staff members, Tom Meium and Toni Merdan for their years of service in my office working on behalf of Minnesotans in the 7th Congressional District. Sincerely, Congressman Collin C. Peterson Minnesota 7th District Lake Park Visit On Tuesday I attended the Becker County Agricultural Discussion Forum in Lake Park, Minnesota at the local American Legion club. I provided the audience with an update concerning the next farm bill and answered questions and listened to their concerns about agricultural issues. You can read more about my visit online. KLGR Interview On Wednesday, I joined KLGR’s The Farm Show to talk about the upcoming farm bill and its progress in the upcoming Congress. We discussed changes needed to the Dairy Margin Protection Program, the Waters of the U.S. rule, the Clean Power Plan, and where the Agriculture Committee can work with the incoming Administration on rolling back burdensome regulations impacting our farmers. You can listen to my interview here. Minnesota Electors On Monday, following the Electoral College vote, 7th district high school students were given the opportunity to meet with Minnesota Secretary of State Steve Simon to learn about our election process and see first-hand how our government works. A Personal Thank You Tom Meium; Toni Merdan I'd like to acknowledge the retirements of two of my staff members who've honorably served the people of Minnesota's Seventh District for many years. Toni Merdan, my Senior Economic Development Officer, started working for me in 1993. Over the years, she's worked with hundreds of communities, businesses and individuals as they'v… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://walz.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/president-signs-walz-led-measure-to-honor-guard-reserve-retirees-into | President Signs Walz-Led Measure to Honor Guard-Reserve Retirees into Law | 2016-12-22 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Tim Walz | W000799 | walz.house.gov | legacy | [MANKATO, MN] – On Friday, December 16, President Obama signed the Jeff Miller and Richard Blumenthal Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2016 into law. The legislation included a bipartisan Walz provision to extend the legal definition of “veteran” to Guard and Reserve members who served at least 20 years but have not been called up for federal active duty. “This legislation is a victory for veterans. While we still have work to do, I am proud of how we have moved the ball forward in a bipartisan way,” said Rep. Tim Walz. Since first coming to Congress, Walz has fought to allow those with 20 years of service in the Guard and Reserve, who were not placed on active duty during their service, to be recognized as veterans as a way to honor their service to our nation. “Guard and Reserve members make many of the same sacrifices as those in regular service, and their commitment should be commemorated. Recognizing Guard-Reserve retirees as veterans is a small but important step we can take to honor their great service to our country.” In addition to Rep. Walz’s Honor America's Guard-Reserve Retirees Act (HR 1384), the following provisions Walz supported were also included: HR 2691 – Authorizes the VA to provide burial and funeral benefits to veterans if there is sufficient evidence to establish that they deserve the benefit, even if the veteran had not filed paperwork with the VA previously. Sections of HR 1338 – Requires VA to report to Congress on the interment of unclaimed remains of deceased veterans to ensure they are treated with dignity and respect. HR 2531 – Fixes a component of the Fry Scholarship (for surviving spouses of post-9/11 Service Members who die in the line of duty) so that recipients from 2001-2005 can receive the full benefit they are entitled to. The bill also had about 60 other provisions improving VA-provided services to homeless veterans, VA construction management, the Vocation Rehabilitation and Employment program, and access to care in the Veterans Health Administration… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://walz.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/walz-calls-for-oversight-committee-vigilance-on-president-elect-s-stock | Walz Calls for Oversight Committee Vigilance on President-elect’s STOCK Act Compliance | 2016-12-22 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Tim Walz | W000799 | walz.house.gov | legacy | [MANKATO, MN] – Yesterday, Representative Tim Walz (MN-01) sent a letter to House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform Chair Jason Chaffetz and Ranking Member Elijah E. Cummings requesting the Committee pay close attention to President-elect Trump’s compliance with the Stop Trading on Congressional Knowledge (STOCK) Act upon inauguration. Signed into law in 2012 after passing the House and Senate with overwhelming bipartisan majorities, the Walz-authored STOCK Act bans insider trading on Capitol Hill. In addition to prohibiting Members of Congress, their staff, and executive branch employees from using information obtained through their positions to profit on the stock market, the bill also explicitly bans the President and Vice President from doing the same. As a result, unlike virtually all other conflict of interest rules governing federal employees, the President is not exempt from the provisions of the STOCK Act. Rep. Walz and Congress’ intent of the STOCK Act was reaffirmed by the U.S. Office of Government Ethics (OGE) in a December 15, 2016 legal advisory. Among other requirements the President must obey, the interpretive guidance states that the STOCK Act bars the President from: “using nonpublic information for private profit; engaging in insider trading; or intentionally influencing an employment decision or practice of a private entity solely on the basis of partisan political affiliation.” Since being elected to the highest office in the land, President-elect Trump has responded to matters of conflict of interest and ethics laws like the STOCK Act by claiming “the law’s totally on [his] side” and that “The president can’t have a conflict of interest.” These statements stand in stark contrast to the letter of the STOCK Act and OGE’s corresponding legal advisory. “As the President-elect’s comments raise many questions concerning whether he intends to comply with the STOCK Act, I am requesting that the Committee keep a very close eye on the actions of the President-elect upon taking the oath of o… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=854A8BA1-DC97-4805-A9C8-4EF5BE329EC1 | Klobuchar Statement on IKEA Dresser Tip-over Death Settlement | 2016-12-22 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Amy Klobuchar | K000367 | www.klobuchar.senate.gov | legacy | IKEA today reached a tentative $50 million settlement with the parents of children who were killed by dressers tipping onto them; The parents of Ted McGee, a 22-month old from Apple Valley who was killed in February by a falling IKEA Malm dresser, are included in the settlement After urging from Klobuchar, the Consumer Product Safety Commission and IKEA announced a recall of Malm dressers in June, stopping the sale of Malm dressers until safety improvements are made, and offering a refund for consumers who purchased Malm dressers; Klobuchar has also introduced legislation to protect children from tipping furniture WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar issued the following statement on the IKEA dresser tip-over death settlement. IKEA today reached a tentative $50 million settlement with the parents of children who were killed by dressers tipping onto them. The parents of Ted McGee, a 22-month old from Apple Valley who was killed in February by a falling IKEA Malm dresser, are included in the settlement. After urging from Klobuchar, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and IKEA announced a recall of Malm dressers in June, stopping the sale of Malm dressers until safety improvements are, and offering a refund of consumers who purchased Malm dressers. This was the largest furniture recall in history. Klobuchar has also introduced legislation to protect children from tipping furniture. “IKEA has taken some responsibility for these deaths both through the settlement and the biggest furniture recall in the history of America. The danger furniture tip-overs pose goes beyond IKEA’s Malm dressers. Until we have effective standards in place, kids will continue to be at risk of injuries and death,” Klobuchar said. “We need to pass my bill to prevent any further tragedies, ensure stronger standards across the board, and protect our children.” In May, Klobuchar, Senator Bob Casey (D-PA), and Representative Jan Schakowsky (D-IL) wrote a letter to the CPSC that called for action to prevent future possi… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://nolan.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/klobuchar-franken-and-nolan-urge-army-air-force-exchange-service-to-keep | Klobuchar, Franken and Nolan Urge Army & Air Force Exchange Service to Keep Duluth Store Open | 2016-12-19 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Rick Nolan | N000127 | nolan.house.gov | legacy | U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar and Al Franken, along with U.S. Representative Rick Nolan, today urged the Army & Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) to reverse its decision to close the Duluth, Minnesota location in 2017. “Active-duty, reserve and retired Army and Air Force personnel and their family members utilize the exchange which offers a best price guarantee and tax free shopping,” the lawmakers wrote to Thomas Schull, Director/Chief Executive Officer of the AAFES. “Closing the store will leave these customers without a viable alternative as the nearest AAFES store is located in the Twin Cities, 165 miles away from Duluth.” In the letter, the lawmakers state that the decision to close the store will have a negative impact on military personnel at the U.S. Air National Guard’s 148th Fighter Wing base in Duluth, along with thousands of military Veterans living in the local area. The full text of the letter is available HERE. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://collinpeterson.house.gov/rep-petersons-newsletter-12162016 | Rep. Peterson's Newsletter 12/16/2016 | 2016-12-16 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Collin Peterson | P000258 | collinpeterson.house.gov | legacy | Redwood Falls Dear Friends, This week I welcomed groups from all over Minnesota to my offices to discuss issues ranging from healthcare, to veterans’ affairs, transportation, hunger, and community development. I always appreciate the opportunity to hear from those who are making a difference in our communities. Finally, I was happy to host several remarkable young Minnesotans as we move forward in our Service Academy nomination process; we are always so impressed by those who are willing to serve our country, and I’m proud to see their interest. Sincerely, Congressman Collin C. Peterson Minnesota 7th District Service Academy Nominations Mike Arntson, Jennifer Smestad, Richard Smestad and Alex Cabrera Each year, I have the privilege of nominating young people to U.S. service academies. On Saturday, a screening panel met to interview potential candidates applying for a nomination to one of the four U.S. service academies. These include the U.S. Military Academy West Point, U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Air Force Academy and the U.S. Merchant Marines Academy. The U.S. Coast Guard Academy does not require a Congressional nomination. These institutions prepare college-age Americans to become officers of the U.S. Uniformed Services. Upon graduation, service academy graduates are commissioned as Officers in the active or reserve components of the military or Merchant Marines for a minimum of five years. Twin Cities & Western Railroad Company Representatives of Twin Cities & Western Railroad (TC&W) Company met with my staff this week to discuss Positive Train Control (PTC). As a co-sponsor of the Positive Train Control Enforcement and Implementation Act (H.R. 3651), I understand that railroad carriers and providers need flexibility when implementing new safety measures so that their service to our local, state, and national markets is not interrupted. I look forward to working with TC&W in the new Congress to ensure that the 7th District’s rail operations continue to be safe and effective. Blue Cros… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://nolan.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/business-north-obama-administration-denies-mineral-lease-renewals-sought-by | Business North: Obama administration denies mineral lease renewals sought by Twin Metals | 2016-12-16 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Rick Nolan | N000127 | nolan.house.gov | legacy | Mineral leases near the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness will not be renewed, the U.S. Department of the Interior and the Department of Agriculture announced Thursday.The federal agencies cited broad concerns from thousands of public comments and input about potential impacts of mining. They also initiated steps to withdraw key portions of the watershed from new mineral permits and leases.Affected is land near Ely where Twin Metals Minnesota has conducted extensive research and found rich concentrations of copper, nickel and other precious metals. The firm previously filed a lawsuit challenging the agencies’ authority to deny mineral leases. “The Boundary Waters is a natural treasure, special to the 150,000 who canoe, fish, and recreate there each year, and is the economic life blood to local business that depend on a pristine natural resource,” USDA Sectetary Tom Vilsack said in a prepared statement. “I have asked Interior to take a time out, conduct a careful environmental analysis and engage the public on whether future mining should be authorized on any federal land next door to the Boundary Waters.” “Twin Metals is greatly disappointed in the action announced today by the BLM and the USFS to deny renewal of two of the company’s long-standing and valid mineral leases in Minnesota, and to initiate actions to withdraw federal lands and minerals from future exploration and development," Twin Metals responded Thursday afternoon in a news release. "If allowed to stand, the BLM-USFS actions will have a devastating impact on the future economy of the Iron Range and all of Northeast Minnesota, eliminating the promise of thousands of good-paying jobs and billions of dollars in investment in the region. Further, this unprecedented decision is contrary to the overwhelming majority of local and regional citizens and communities who support mining and believe mining can be done responsibly in this region." The agency said Congress set aside the Boundary Waters more than 50 years ago “in recognition of its irreplac… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://nolan.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/duluth-news-tribune-feds-take-back-mineral-leases-from-twin-metals | Duluth News Tribune: Feds take back mineral leases from Twin Metals | 2016-12-16 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Rick Nolan | N000127 | nolan.house.gov | legacy | Officials of the agencies said the massive underground mine proposed along the Kawishiwi River is simply too close to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. The project is within the BWCAW watershed that flows north into Canada, and critics have said that any polluted runoff from rock high in sulfur could taint the 1.1 million acre, lake-studded wilderness. “Not this mine, not in this place, not next to this wilderness,” Leslie Jones, deputy undersecretary of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, told the News Tribune. The Department of Agriculture oversees the Forest Service while the Interior Department oversees the BLM. Supporters say the nearly $3 billion project would employ 850 people and pump millions of dollars into the regional economy hard hit by the cyclical nature of the iron ore industry. The company responded Thursday that it will take legal action to overturn the agency decision, and mining supporters predicted that the incoming Trump administration will overturn the 11th hour move by the Obama administration. “There’s a new administration coming to town and, hopefully, they will work to undo this silliness,” said Frank Ongaro, executive director of Mining Minnesota, the copper industry trade group. It’s unlikely the project could proceed without the federal leases which the company called “the foundation of our project.” The company said Thursday it has already spent more than $400 million in exploration and advance work on the proposed mine and processing center. But federal officials noted that copper mining is far different from iron ore mining and can’t be considered as benign to the environment because of the type of high-sulfur rock involved. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said keeping BWCAW water pristine is important not just for the 250,000 people who fish and canoe in the wilderness each year but for the tourism industry surrounding the area that pumps some $45 million into the local economy annually. “The Boundary Waters is a national treasure,” Vilsack said in a … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://nolan.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/fox-21-local-reaction-to-lease-renewal-rejection | FOX 21: Local reaction to lease renewal rejection | 2016-12-16 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Rick Nolan | N000127 | nolan.house.gov | legacy | ELY, Minn. - Reaction was swift from Twin Metals today for the lease renewal rejection. Despite the suddenness of it, Twin Metals told Fox 21 that it did not come as a shock to them. “I don’t think we were surprised with the decision on the leases,” said Bob McFarlin, government affairs advisor for Twin Metals. “The U.S. Forest Service, even before they began this process earlier this year, signaled they were leaning toward denying the renewal of the leases. The decision could lead to not expanding mining in other parts of Northeastern Minnesota in the future, and could be detrimental to its economy. Twin Metals said they plan to battle this out in court which could take a great deal of time. Congressman Nolan Reacts Eighth District Congressman Rick Nolan also released a statement today concerning the denial of the mining leases. It read the following: "Minnesota's Iron Range got a real slap in the face and a punch in the gut by Washington bureaucrats this morning." And he continued on saying: "This decision denies Minnesota's Iron Range the opportunity to explore a project in the area that would bring thousands of new, greatly–needed jobs to our region." | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://nolan.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/fox-9-feds-deny-twin-metals-mine-lease-near-boundary-waters | FOX 9: Feds deny Twin Metals mine lease near Boundary Waters | 2016-12-16 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Rick Nolan | N000127 | nolan.house.gov | legacy | MINNEAPOLIS (KMSP) - The U.S. Department of the Interior and the Department of Agriculture have denied an application for the renewal of two hard rock mineral leases in northern Minnesota. Twin Metals has proposed a copper-nickel mine near Ely, but the federal government determine the project poses too much of a risk to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, which Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack called a “natural treasure.” "The Boundary Waters is a natural treasure, special to the 150,000 who canoe, fish, and recreate there each year, and is the economic life blood to local business that depend on a pristine natural resource," said Vilsack. "I have asked Interior to take a time out, conduct a careful environmental analysis and engage the public on whether future mining should be authorized on any federal land next door to the Boundary Waters." USDA and the Department of the Interior cited “broad concerns from thousands of public comments” about the potential consequences of mining near the BWCA. The Forest Service cited the potential risk of contamination of the BWCA as a key concern, with the two mineral leases located within 3 miles of the BWCA. The Forest Service also submitted an application to the Secretary of the Interior to withdraw key portions of the watershed that flows into the BWCA from any new mineral permits and leases. In establishing the BWCA more than 50 years ago, Congress directed the Forest Service to maintain its water quality, protect its fish and wildlife, and minimize the environmental impacts associated with mineral development. The decision was immediately met with applause from conservationist with Friends of the Boundary Waters Wilderness. "These actions happened because tens of thousands of people spoke up against locating a sulfide mine on the edge of America's most popular wilderness area," executive director Paul Danicic said in a statement. "We thank the U.S. Forest Service for listening to their concerns and making a decision that protects the Boundary Waters from Twin Met… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://nolan.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/hometown-focus-nolan-responds-to-administration-s-anti-mining-anti-jobs | Hometown Focus: Nolan responds to administrations anti-mining, anti-jobs decision | 2016-12-16 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Rick Nolan | N000127 | nolan.house.gov | legacy | U.S. Rep. Rick Nolan on Thursday released the following statement on the Administration’s anti-mining, anti-jobs announcement: “Minnesota’s Iron Range got a real slap in the face and a punch in the gut by Washington bureaucrats this morning. The United States Forest Service (USFS) and the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) announced their joint decision to withhold and deny consent on two of Twin Metals’ leases, which were previously renewed twice without controversy. This decision denies Minnesota’s Iron Range the opportunity to explore a project in the area that would bring thousands of new, greatly-needed jobs to our region. The Washington bureaucrats have clearly overreached their authority. It’s an embarrassing shame that we can’t even use science and exploration to discover what we have before shutting it all down. Furthermore, I am stunned the Administration chose to add insult to injury and propose to withdraw hundreds of thousands of acres of Superior National Forest land from mining. This goes in direct contradiction to the spirit, intent and letter of the law in the 1978 BWCA multiple-use compromise. This law established the area as predominantly non-motorized, taking millions of acres of lands out of valuable production. The law explicitly reserved lands outside of BWCA in the Superior National Forest for forestry, and management plans were established that included mining and mineral exploration, which was designated a “desirable activity.” I am also deeply concerned that the agencies failed to clarify whether they intend the segregation and withdrawal action to apply to taconite mining, now or in the future. We are all in agreement with the USDA’s mission to maintain the BWCA’s water quality and to protect its fish and wildlife. To be sure, we must protect our environment – the BWCA in particular – but we should never be afraid of exploration and discovery, or using science and facts to dictate important decisions. This is by no means the end of it all. We intend to work in the next Congress with the n… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://nolan.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/mesabi-daily-news-twin-metals-leases-are-denied | Mesabi Daily News: TWIN METALS LEASES ARE DENIED | 2016-12-16 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Rick Nolan | N000127 | nolan.house.gov | legacy | ELY — The U.S. Forest Service and the U.S. Bureau of Land Management Thursday denied renewal of two long-held federal mineral leases for the Twin Metals copper-nickel mining project near Ely. In denying renewal of the leases, the U.S. Department of the Interior and the Department of Agriculture said they were taking “important steps to protect the watershed of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.’’ Twin Metals, however, did not share the same view in a news release issued Thursday. “Twin Metals is greatly disappointed in the action announced today by the BLM and the USFS to deny renewal of two of the company’s long-standing and valid mineral leases in Minnesota, and to initiate actions to withdraw federal lands and minerals from future exploration and development. If allowed to stand, the BLM-USFS actions will have a devastating impact on the future economy of the Iron Range and all of Northeast Minnesota, eliminating the promise of thousands of good-paying jobs and billions of dollars in investment in the region. Further, this unprecedented decision is contrary to the overwhelming majority of local and regional citizens and communities who support mining and believe mining can be done responsibly in this region.’’ The action’s impact on the $2.8 billion mine project, which would have created hundreds of jobs, is not fully known, but it is clearly a major obstacle to Twin Metals’ plans. “While Twin Metals is assessing the impact of the agencies’ lease renewal decision, the company is committed to progressing our project forward and will continue to pursue legal avenues to protect our contractual mineral rights,’’ a news release said. The federal agencies also initiated steps to withdraw key portions of the watershed from new mineral permits and leases. “The Boundary Waters is a natural treasure, special to the 150,000 who canoe, fish, and recreate there each year, and is the economic life blood to local business that depend on a pristine natural resource,” said Agriculture Secretary Tom… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://nolan.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/mpr-feds-halt-twin-metals-plan-for-minn-copper-mine-near-boundary-waters | MPR: Feds halt Twin Metals plan for Minn. copper mine near Boundary Waters | 2016-12-16 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Rick Nolan | N000127 | nolan.house.gov | legacy | The federal government dealt a major blow Thursday to one of two proposed copper mines in northeast Minnesota. The U.S. Forest Service and the Bureau of Land Management refused to renew mineral leases held that Twin Metals Minnesota says it needs to build a huge underground copper-nickel mine just a few miles from Ely and the Boundary Waters. The government also launched a process that could lead to a 20-year ban on new mining near the Boundary Waters. "We're concerned about the impacts of copper nickel mining in sulfide deposits, because there is extensive research that shows that should impacts occur, it would be virtually impossible to mitigate those impacts," said Kathleen Atkinson, a regional forester with the U.S. Forest Service. Twin Metals says the decision is a devastating blow to the future economic vitality of northeast Minnesota. The company has projected the mine could create 850 jobs and operate for at least 30 years. "We believe the action taken by the Bureau of Land Management is contrary to federal law," said company spokesperson Bob McFarlin. "We've already filed suit, earlier this year, challenging the authority of the bureau to make such a decision. That lawsuit will continue. We believe we will prevail." Ely Mayor Chuck Novak called the decision "deflating." "It takes the hope out from all the people who looked for a brighter future with great paying jobs, family, living wages, a boost to the economy," he said. The federal government's related move could have impacts far beyond the decision on Twin Metals' leases. The agencies initiated a process that could block any new mineral permits and leases in the watershed of the Boundary Waters for 20 years. That would cover an area of 234,000 acres in the Superior National Forest. The proposal doesn't impact the PolyMet Mining project, about 20 miles to the south, in a different watershed. But Frank Ongaro, Executive Director of Mining Minnesota, says such a move would impact several other mining companies exploring for copper, nickel and precious m… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://nolan.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/the-hill-feds-block-northern-minnesota-mining-project | The Hill: Feds block northern Minnesota mining project | 2016-12-16 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Rick Nolan | N000127 | nolan.house.gov | legacy | Federal regulators have rejected a company's leases for copper and nickel mining in northern Minnesota, saying production there poses a risk to a federal wilderness area in the region. The Department of Interior also said it would consider removing a large swath of land from the federal mineral leasing program. Such a step would be a major victory for Minnesota environmentalists, but a blow to the state’s burgeoning precious metals industry. Thursday’s decision is the latest in a string of announcements from the Obama administration designed to block resources development on some federal land. Last month, Interior officials canceled oil drilling leases near tribal land in Montana, blocked gold mining near Yellowstone National Park and prohibited offshore drilling lease sales through 2022 in the Arctic and Atlantic Oceans. Regulators on Thursday rejected a request from a company called Twin Metals that had asked federal officials to renew its long-held lease on land it hopes to someday mine for copper and nickel. Environmentalists argue the precious metal mining process threatens the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCA), and had asked officials to reject the request. The Forest Service did so Thursday, saying the process poses “a significant environmental risk at sulfide ore mine sites like the one proposed for these leased lands.” Interior Department officials will also consider whether to remove portions of the region from the federal mineral leasing program for up to 20 years, effectively blocking future mining there. A decision on that question will come within two years, or well after President-elect Trump takes office. “The Boundary Waters is a natural treasure, special to the 150,000 who canoe, fish, and recreate there each year, and is the economic life blood to local business that depend on a pristine natural resource,” Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said in a Thursday statement. “I have asked Interior to take a time out, conduct a careful environmental analysis and engage the public on w… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://nolan.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/the-timberjay-feds-deny-renewal-of-twin-metals-leases | The Timberjay: Feds deny renewal of Twin Metals leases | 2016-12-16 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Rick Nolan | N000127 | nolan.house.gov | legacy | REGIONAL— The Obama administration has dealt a potentially fatal blow to Twin Metals’ proposal to build a copper-nickel mine near Ely. Top officials in the Department of the Interior and Agriculture announced last Thursday that they will not be renewing two federal mineral leases that are critical to the project. The decision is a major victory for a broad coalition of environmental groups that have fought an organized effort to stop the proposed mine, that would have been located within a major watershed of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Becky Rom, an Ely resident and chair of the Coalition to the Save the Boundary Waters, said she was elated with the ruling, but acknowledged that her organization’s fight continues. Twin Metals has mounted a legal challenge over the rights of the federal agencies to deny renewal of their mineral leases, so this week’s decision likely won’t be the final word. Even so, supporters of the mining proposal expressed dismay at the decision. Eighth District Congressman Rick Nolan called it a “slap in the face and a punch in the gut,” by Washington bureaucrats. “This decision denies Minnesota’s Iron Range the opportunity to explore a project in the area that would bring thousands of new, greatly-needed jobs to our region,” he added. Ely Mayor Chuck Novak said he was “extremely disappointed and he questioned the legal basis for the decision. At the same time, he said the determination “wasn’t a surprise.” But not every Minnesota political leader was disappointed. Gov. Mark Dayton, who had lobbied for denial of the mineral leases, called it “tremendous news” in a statement issued shortly after the announcement. “It is important to note that this decision is not in opposition to mining, but in defense of a pristine and priceless environmental wonder,” he said, in reference to the Boundary Waters. Two decisions In addition to its decision not to renew the two federal minerals leases sought by Twin Metals, the Bureau of Land Management, which oversees the federal mineral leasing p… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=329E4F7B-B5EC-4B29-AA04-DEF9CAB5A9B1 | Klobuchar Renews Calls for Senate to Confirm McWatters Nomination so Export-Import Bank Can Fully Function | 2016-12-16 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Amy Klobuchar | K000367 | www.klobuchar.senate.gov | legacy | Over 330 days have passed since the Senate received the nomination of J. Mark Watters to fill the vacancy on the Export-Import Bank Board of Directors; Without a quorum and Board approval, the Export-Import Bank is unable to finance many medium- and long-term deals or adopt any of the accountability measures that were included in the Klobuchar-backed bipartisan Export-Import Bank Reform and Reauthorization Act of 2015 so that American businesses have access to the financing they need to compete globally In the last five years, the Export-Import Bank has supported over $2 billion in exports and helped over 170 companies in Minnesota WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar took to the Senate floor to renew her call for the Senate to confirm J. Mark McWatters to the Export-Import Bank Board so that the agency can fully function. Over 330 days have passed since the Senate Banking Committee received this nomination which would provide the Export-Import Bank with a quorum. Without a quorum and Board approval, the Export-Import Bank is unable to update loan limits or adopt any of the accountability measures that were included in the Klobuchar-backed bipartisan Export-Import Bank Reform and Reauthorization Act of 2015 so that American businesses have access to the financing they need to compete globally. In the last five years, the Export-Import Bank has supported over $2 billion in exports and helped over 170 companies in Minnesota. “Small-business owners, like the many I have met with in Minnesota, tell me that the Export-Import Bank is essential for their ability to compete all over the world,” Klobuchar said. “We need to make sure the Export-Import Bank is able to help all American businesses grow and reach markets all over the world. By confirming Mr. McWatters to the vacancy on the Board, we can give the Export-Import Bank the quorum needed to support American businesses and put in place several key reforms I supported as a part of the bipartisan reauthorization bill.” Klobuchar has been a major advoc… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=E50F1B0D-D603-4D54-AD47-B9E50F7BDACB | Klobuchar, Ernst Bill to Cut Red Tape and Wait Times for Veterans Scheduling Appointments at VA Medical Facilities Signed into Law by President | 2016-12-16 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Amy Klobuchar | K000367 | www.klobuchar.senate.gov | legacy | A June 2014 internal audit by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) found that more than 120,000 veterans waited at least 90 days for appointments for health care or never received appointments; other hospitals and health systems have developed technology to eliminate wait times and ensure that every available appointment is used Klobuchar, Ernst bipartisan bill directs the Secretary of the VA to create a pilot program that will allow veterans to use available technology to self-schedule and confirm appointments for health care at VA medical facilities WASHINGTON, DC— U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Joni Ernst (R-IA) announced that their bipartisan bill that would establish a patient self-scheduling appointment system at Veterans Affairs Medical Facilities was signed into law by the President today. A June 2014 internal audit by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) found that more than 120,000 veterans waited at least 90 days for appointments for health care or never received appointments. Other hospitals and health systems are now leveraging technology to eliminate wait times and ensure that every available appointment is used. The bipartisan Faster Care for Veterans Act directs the Secretary of the VA to commence a pilot program under which veterans could use the internet to schedule and confirm appointments for health care at VA medical facilities. “Excessive wait times can put veterans’ lives at risk, but state-of-the art technology that makes it easier to schedule appointments already exists and is being used in other hospital systems,” said Senator Amy Klobuchar. “Our veterans have earned the right to use the same technology to schedule their medical appointments without unnecessary red tape and delays. Now that our bill has been signed into law, we have taken an important step forward in ensuring that our brave men and women who have sacrificed so much have access to the medical care they need and deserve.” “Our veterans shouldn’t be forced to wait weeks on end for an appointment at th… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://nolan.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/nolan-applauds-magnetation-solution | Nolan Applauds Magnetation Solution | 2016-12-15 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Rick Nolan | N000127 | nolan.house.gov | legacy | U.S. Rep. Rick Nolan today joined his Problem Solvers Caucus colleagues in stating their intention to support an FY17 spending bill, avoiding a government shutdown, if it is a clean bill without any ideological riders. A FY2017 spending bill is expected to be brought to the House for a vote this week. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://nolan.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/nolan-responds-to-administration-s-anti-mining-anti-jobs-decision | Nolan Responds to Administrations Anti-Mining, Anti-Jobs Decision | 2016-12-15 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Rick Nolan | N000127 | nolan.house.gov | legacy | U.S. Rep. Rick Nolan today joined his Problem Solvers Caucus colleagues in stating their intention to support an FY17 spending bill, avoiding a government shutdown, if it is a clean bill without any ideological riders. A FY2017 spending bill is expected to be brought to the House for a vote this week. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-statement-obamas-refusal-renew-twin-metals-federal-mineral-leases | Emmer Statement on Obama's Refusal to Renew Twin Metals' Federal Mineral Leases | 2016-12-15 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Republican | House | MN | Tom Emmer | E000294 | emmer.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) released the following statement in regards to the U.S. Bureau of Land Management and U.S. Forest Service’s refusal to renew Twin Metals’ federal mineral leases for the proposed copper-nickel mine near Ely, MN.“I am incredibly disappointed that the outgoing Administration has once again acted in poor-faith during their last days in power. Today’s announcement is yet another example of Washington democrats putting politics over what is best for Minnesotans. Twin Metals would bring a much needed boost to the Iron Range, create nearly a thousand new jobs, and introduce millions of dollars to the local economy. I am confident that the incoming Administration will undo the damage the Obama Administration continues to enact as their parting gift to the American people so we can get Minnesotans back to work.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://mccollum.house.gov/press-release/mccollum-statement-nomination-rep-ryan-zinke-interior-secretary | McCollum Statement on Nomination of Rep. Ryan Zinke for Interior Secretary | 2016-12-15 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Betty McCollum | M001143 | mccollum.house.gov | legacy | Representative Betty McCollum (DFL-Minn.), Ranking Member of the Interior-Environment Appropriations Subcommittee, released the following statement after President-elect Donald Trump announced his intention to nominate Representative Ryan Zinke (R-Mont.) as Secretary of the Interior: “In the six weeks since his election, President-elect Donald Trump has begun laying the groundwork to roll back nearly a century of progress protecting our environment and conserving our public lands. “The nomination of Representative Ryan Zinke to be Secretary of the Interior is yet another sign that the Trump-Pence administration will favor special interests over conservation and put polluters before America’s public lands and natural treasures. In his short time in the U.S. House, Representative Zinke has voted repeatedly to sell America’s public lands to private interests and sided again and again with the fossil fuel industry. “The Department of the Interior plays a critical role protecting public lands and endangered species, preserving our national and natural heritage, and upholding our obligations to Native Americans. Those are values that I will continue to defend, especially in the face of Trump’s regressive agenda.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://mccollum.house.gov/press-release/mccollum-statement-obama-administration-action-save-boundary-waters | McCollum Statement on Obama Administration Action to Save the Boundary Waters | 2016-12-15 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Betty McCollum | M001143 | mccollum.house.gov | legacy | Congresswoman Betty McCollum (DFL-Minn.) released the following statement after the United States Departments of Agriculture and the Interior announced the denial of Twin Metals’ leases for copper-sulfide mining in the Rainy River Drainage Basin and the start of a process to withdraw federal lands in the area from mining: “For decades, Minnesotans and Americans have turned to our Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness and Voyageurs National Park as treasured areas of unparalleled natural beauty and unsurpassed recreational opportunities. “Today’s decision to halt the current threat of dangerous, environmentally risky sulfide-ore copper mining is a major victory for our state and our environment. “Working with Governor Dayton and a grassroots coalition of Minnesotans and Americans, we have fought to conserve the million acres and thousand lakes that form these national treasures. I am delighted that Secretaries Tom Vilsack and Sally Jewell have acted to save our Boundary Waters. “While all Minnesotans should celebrate today’s victory, we have more work to do. I will keep advocating for the full withdrawal of these federal lands from mining, including fighting for legislation in Congress that will protect our Boundary Waters forever.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=34B90360-1368-42F5-88A4-DDB956AA28BF | Klobuchar-Backed Bipartisan Legislation to Protect Consumers from Ticket Bots Signed into Law | 2016-12-15 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Amy Klobuchar | K000367 | www.klobuchar.senate.gov | legacy | Many fans had difficulty buying tickets online for the Prince tribute show held earlier this year in St. Paul; In October, Klobuchar joined with representatives from First Avenue and the Historic Theatre Group to push for passage of the bill Bill would prohibit the use of ticket bots and other online measures in order to deliberately circumvent security protocols that limit or restrict online ticket purchases WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar announced that bipartisan legislation she has backed to protect consumers from tickets bots has been signed into law by the president. Many fans had difficulty buying tickets online for the Prince tribute show that was held earlier this year in St. Paul. In October, Klobuchar joined with representatives from First Avenue and the Historic Theatre Group to push for passage of the bill. The Better Online Ticket Sales (BOTS) Act of 2016 would prohibit the use of ticket bots and other online measures in order to deliberately circumvent security protocols that limit or restrict online ticket purchases. The legislation would prohibit the sale of any ticket that is knowingly obtained by such unlawful methods. A violation of these prohibitions would be subject to civil penalties. “Ticket bots too often prevent fans from seeing the artists they love or the teams they cheer for. They also make it harder for artists to ensure their fans can attend live shows at a reasonable price,” Klobuchar said. “Now that this bill is law, we can limit the ability of scammers using ticket buying bots to cut in line and drive up prices for real fans.” As a member of the Senate Commerce Committee and ranking member of the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Antitrust, Competition Policy, and Consumer Rights, Klobuchar has been a leader in the fight to protect consumers from unauthorized charges on their phone bills and deceptive practices by fraudulent online travel booking websites. At a Commerce Committee hearing in 2014, Klobuchar called on the Federal Communications Com… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://collinpeterson.house.gov/rep-petersons-newsletter-1292016-0 | Rep. Peterson's Newsletter 12/9/2016 | 2016-12-14 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Collin Peterson | P000258 | collinpeterson.house.gov | legacy | 2016 National Christmas Tree Lighting Dear Friends, This week concluded the 114th Congress, with the passing of a Continuing Resolution to fund our government as well as several other important pieces of legislation. I look forward to serving the great state of Minnesota again in the upcoming Congress and working to protect what matters most. As we witness the 75th anniversary of the Pearl Harbor attacks this week, let us remember those that fell protecting our nation, and thank all of the servicemen and women who have served since. Finally, as more hazardous winter weather approaches, please take a moment to review the safety tips below. Sincerely, Congressman Collin C. Peterson Minnesota 7th District Molly Yeh and Nick Hagen East Grand Forks residents Molly Yeh and Nick Hagen stopped by to see me on Tuesday. Molly writes a popular food blog and was selected to visit the White House and bake holiday treats with the White House pastry chef. Nick is a fifth generation sugar beet farmer. Molly presented me with her cookbook, “Molly on the Range: Recipes and Stories from an Unlikely Life on a Farm.” It was great to meet with Molly and Nick, and I wish them both success with their future endeavors. American Forest Foundation On Wednesday, my staff aides Evan Jurkovich and Zach Martin met with Jonathan Burris, a tree farmer near Mille Lacs Lake, Paul DeLong, and Rebecca Barnard to talk about the priorities of family forest owners. Among the issues discussed were supporting market opportunities for tree farmers. About 5.3 million acres of Minnesota’s forestland are owned by 192,000 individual and family forest owners, so work on the forestry sections of the next Farm Bill will be very important to the state of Minnesota. Minnesota National Guard This week, my staff assistant Meg Louwagie attended the quarterly Congressional Staff Breakfast Briefing with the Minnesota National Guard. Congressional Staff members were briefed on topics including MNANG (Minnesota Air National Guard) Exercises and Deployments of … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://nolan.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/brainerd-dispatch-governors-deer-opener-hundreds-hear-of-hunting-the-deer | Brainerd Dispatch: Governor's Deer Opener: Hundreds hear of hunting the deer | 2016-12-14 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Rick Nolan | N000127 | nolan.house.gov | legacy | After all, this area is known by many locals as a slice of deer hunting heaven. Towering trees, thick swamps and freshwater vistas were just a step outside of the Breezy Point Resort, the host site of the event. No doubt the deer surrounding the resort were made well aware of the hunting season as blaze orange was coming out of the woodwork and even filled the beach area in front of Dockside at Breezy Point Resort. Inside the resort were hunters, outdoors types and just plain curious folks from the community, as well as state dignitaries supporting Minnesota's tradition. At the dinner, before the night before deer opener, the sound of an accordion pierced the air as steam rose from the roasted venison and mushrooms served to the hungry crowd. The event was the second one like it to return to the Brainerd lakes area. It's an opportunity to show the area businesses off and what the outdoors area offers by inviting the community and media outlets here from around the region. This area is the only one to have had two Governor Deer Openers according to Brainerd Lakes Chamber President Matt Kilian. He said the area was well deserving of the selection. "It's the ultimate outdoors destination," Kilian said. "I'm really proud of the area. I'm really proud of the community." Kilian noted about 500,000 people hunt in the state, about $750 million in economic impact is seen in the state and locally it's a huge impact, too. "Look how much blaze orange is sitting in the restaurants this weekend and that's a pretty good indicator of what the impact is," Kilian said. The event blew through the first 200 Mills Fleet Farm blaze orange hats in a hurry. Those attending visited the 30 different booths offering a look at outdoors products, services, venison processing, youth sports and conservation offerings. About 300 were expected for the evening banquet and at least 25 media outlets were represented at the event, looking to share what the Pequot Lakes-Breezy Point area had to offer. "Our media attendance is higher… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://nolan.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/business-north-great-northern-transmission-line-receives-final-permit | Business North: Great Northern transmission line receives final permit | 2016-12-14 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Rick Nolan | N000127 | nolan.house.gov | legacy | Minnesota Power's Great Northern Transmission Line received federal approval Wednesday when the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) issued a Presidential Permit allowing the transmission line to cross the international border between the United States and Canada. Lines in Minnesota will carry clean electricity generated by Manitoba Hydro. The Presidential Permit approval is the final step in a four-year regulatory process. “The Great Northern Transmission Line is a crucial link in Minnesota Power’s EnergyForward strategy of balancing renewable and traditional energy sources,” said Al Hodnik, chairman, president and CEO of ALLETE Inc., Minnesota Power’s parent firm. “DOE’s issuance of this permit is the latest example of how we’re answering the nation’s call to transform its energy landscape,” he said in a news release. Construction is expected to begin in early 2017 on the 500-kilovolt line that will deliver 383 megawatts of renewable hydropower purchased from Manitoba Hydro to Minnesota Power’s customers beginning in 2020. The project is a key component of Minnesota Power's EnergyForward strategy to reduce carbon emissions and ensure reliability and affordable rates while achieving a balanced energy mix of one-third renewable energy, one-third natural gas and one-third coal. “I am very pleased the project's final stage of review has crossed over the finish line, just in time for the winter construction season,” said U.S. Rep. Rick Nolan. “The Great Northern Transmission Line enjoys broad stakeholder support, including local tribes, and has positive energy security and environmental implications for northeastern Minnesota, the nation, and North America.” The 224-mile route will cross the border about three miles east of Minnesota Highway 89. The line will run to an expanded Blackberry electric substation east of Grand Rapids. The route passes through Roseau, Lake of the Woods, and Koochiching and Itasca counties. Minnesota Power estimates the total cost of the project will be between $300 million and $350 million. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://nolan.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/duluth-news-tribune-congress-approves-funding-for-new-facility-on-148th | Duluth News Tribune: Congress approves funding for new facility on 148th base | 2016-12-14 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Rick Nolan | N000127 | nolan.house.gov | legacy | "We are ecstatic to learn that we are one step closer to receiving funding for a new weapons load training facility at the 148th Fighter Wing," 148th spokeswoman Capt. Jodi Grayson said in a statement to the News Tribune. "This project has been a top priority for the Minnesota National Guard for a number of years." Previously, weapons had to be loaded onto aircraft from the tarmac outside, explained Grayson. Training in loading weapons onto aircraft was also something done specifically outdoors, as the 148th currently does not have a dedicated indoor space where crews can receive weapons training, load an aircraft and store training equipment. "The new facility would give members of the unit the space they need to do their job in a safer, warmer environment as much of the work and training is done outdoors, at the mercy of an often harsh Duluth climate," Grayson said. The planned 23,000-square-foot building will include a large open-bay hangar; space for training, weapons loading and storage; offices; break rooms and more, Grayson said. The new facility would double the space of the current weapons facility, which is small and not equipped to handle all of the tasks that will be featured in the new one. Weapons loading also cannot take place in the base's hangars, Grayson said, because of safety issues related to the constant traffic of F-16 jets moving in and out of the hangars. Once complete, the 148th Fighter Wing will be one of the premier state-of-the-art bases in the Air National Guard, Grayson said. Minnesota's federal lawmakers all supported the construction outlay. "This bipartisan legislation that passed Congress and now heads to the President to be signed into law will help the 148th stay on the cutting edge of weapons training and provide a new classroom facility for the Bulldogs," Sen. Amy Klobuchar said in a news release issued along with Sen. Al Franken and Rep. Rick Nolan. Sen. Al Franken said he was "pleased" and that "our National Guard (has) our full support." Nolan called it … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://nolan.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/duluth-news-tribune-its-ot-for-minnesotas-estate-claims-fix | Duluth News Tribune: It's OT for Minnesota's estate claims fix | 2016-12-14 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Rick Nolan | N000127 | nolan.house.gov | legacy | "I'm not hitting the panic button just yet," said state Sen. Tony Lourey, DFL-Kerrick, a primary architect of legislation passed in the final minutes of this year's session to end the state's authority to enter claims against the estates of Minnesotans aged 55-64 who receive Medical Assistance. But the federal agency with ultimate authority is delaying action until getting more information from the state. The legislation, which also retroactively removed claims dating back to Jan. 1, 2014, was passed by both houses and signed by Gov. Mark Dayton as part of the state's spending bill. But it still required approval by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, the federal agency that administers those health insurance programs. CMS had 90 days to approve, disapprove or ask for additional information from the state Department of Human Services, said Samantha Bisogno, spokeswoman for U.S. Rep. Rick Nolan, D-Crosby, in an email. The request for additional information came on Nov. 14, according to a statement from DHS. "We are developing a response now and expect to respond in the next few days," DHS stated. "(We) have no prediction about the ultimate outcome." Once DHS responds, the clock will be reset and CMS will have another 90 days to reach a verdict. That means a decision could come under a new presidential administration that will include a new CMS administrator. But Lourey said he's confident CMS will act sooner. "I still believe we're on solid footing with what we passed," Lourey said. "And in the end CMS is going to approve it within this administration." The DHS statement said, "We have made it clear that time is of the essence." CMS is questioning the retroactive portion of the legislation, Bisogno wrote. For a group of small farmers and property owners, mostly in Pine County, who raised the issue early this year, that's a key portion. They argued that they were placed in Medical Assistance by MNsure in 2014 and '15 without any knowledge that the money they received could be recovered via lie… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://nolan.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/duluth-news-tribune-national-view-lung-cancer-battle-raises-concerns-about | Duluth News Tribune: National view: Lung cancer battle raises concerns about e-cigs, other nicotine-delivery devices | 2016-12-14 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Rick Nolan | N000127 | nolan.house.gov | legacy | It’s the deadliest cancer in America, accounting for 25 percent of all cancer deaths. Lung cancer is also the leading cause of cancer deaths among women. The National Cancer Institute estimates that 71,600 women will die of lung cancer this year. And you may be surprised to learn that of the women who get lung cancer, approximately 1 in 5 are nonsmokers. Unfortunately, the false stigma that automatically ties smoking to lung cancer has severely hindered life-saving lung cancer research. In fact, of the $5.3 billion the National Cancer Institute receives every year from the federal government, only 6.5 percent is devoted to lung cancer. That’s a big part of the reason my husband, U.S. Rep. Rick Nolan, is a founder and co-chairman of the bipartisan Congressional Lung Cancer Caucus. For us, and for millions of other families, lung cancer and the need for more federal support for prevention, treatment and, ultimately, a cure, is personal. Our youngest daughter, Katherine, is battling nonsmoking stage 4 small cell lung cancer. And Rick’s father and aunt both had lung cancer. Of course, the battle against lung cancer is being waged on many fronts, including efforts to discourage young people from smoking. In that regard, experts increasingly are concerned that hard-won progress against lung cancer could be curbed by the growing popularity of “nicotine-delivery devices,” particularly electronic cigarettes, or e-cigarettes, that turn nicotine into an inhalable liquid vapor, and hookah, which are water pipes used to smoke flavored tobacco. Simply stated, we don’t really know how dangerous these products are or what chemicals and components users are taking into their bodies. For example, we know little about the safety of propylene glycol, a substance contained in many e-cigarettes. And tests have found that some e-cigarettes contain small amounts of nitrosamines and formaldehyde, both cancer-causing agents. Thankfully, after years of public review and comment, new Food and Drug Administration regulations are being r… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://nolan.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/duluth-news-tribune-permit-approved-for-minnesota-power-transmission-line | Duluth News Tribune: Permit approved for Minnesota Power transmission line | 2016-12-14 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Rick Nolan | N000127 | nolan.house.gov | legacy | The permit approves the cross-border aspects of the Great Northern Transmission Line, in the works since 2012, and Minnesota Power officials declared it the last major regulatory hurdle before construction can begin on the power line early next year. State regulators in February approved the route for the 500-kilovolt line. Electricity generated by a new dam in northern Manitoba will start moving to Minnesota Power customers in 2020. The 224-mile route of the more-than-$560 million Minnesota portion of the power line will start in Roseau County and run to an expanded electric substation at Blackberry, just east of Grand Rapids. Manitoba Power is building the transmission line on its side of the border. "I would like to thank Cong. Rick Nolan, Cong. Collin Peterson, Sen. Al Franken, Sen. Amy Klobuchar and the Red Lake Nation for their strong support of the project and advocacy to the" Department of Energy, said Al Hodnik, CEO of Allete, Minnesota Power's parent company. The Duluth-based utility wants the hydroelectric power to offset its decrease in coal-generated electricity as it moves to meet the state's carbon reduction efforts and demands for renewable energy. "The Great Northern Transmission Line is a crucial link in Minnesota Power's Energy Forward strategy of balancing renewable and traditional energy sources. Minnesota Power already has exceeded Minnesota's 25 percent renewable standard, and is well-positioned to meet future decreased carbon emissions goals," Hodnik said. The utility sees the hydro power as a hedge against times when the wind doesn't blow for its growing array of North Dakota wind generators. Under purchase agreements between the two companies and approved by the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission, Manitoba Hydro can reduce the flow of water through its hydro generators when there is excess wind power from Minnesota Power's North Dakota wind farms. When winds are light, Manitoba Hydro can release more water and send more electricity south. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://nolan.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/duluth-news-tribune-readers-view-grateful-for-nolan-s-help-with-insurance | Duluth News Tribune: Reader's view: Grateful for Nolans help with insurance problem | 2016-12-14 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Rick Nolan | N000127 | nolan.house.gov | legacy | Only the act of a congressional inquiry was sufficient to have us assigned a dedicated supervisor (with direct-contact access) who miraculously resolved problems of several months’ duration in just a few days, establishing an advanced premium tax credit, to which we were entitled, just in time to avoid cancellation of our insurance policy for non-payment. This not only saved us substantial premiums and possible tax penalties, it averted a termination that would have rendered us ineligible for exchange participation for six months. This is not the first time the congressman has aided our family, having also assisted with Social Security disability benefit determination processing. This unwavering, immediate response further serves to underscore Nolan’s commitment to address and meet the needs of “the common man.” We shall be forever grateful, and we hope Nolan’s re-election will assure such continued support and assistance for all Minnesotans. Stephen Lee Phillips Two Harbors | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://nolan.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/lake-county-news-chronicle-local-trails-to-be-included-in-national-trail | Lake County News Chronicle: Local trails to be included in national trail network | 2016-12-14 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Rick Nolan | N000127 | nolan.house.gov | legacy | The North Country Scenic Trail was established in 1980 and currently uses a network of trails that allows hikers to access more than 4,000 miles of trail from Vermont to North Dakota. The North Country Scenic Trail bill (H.R. 799) was discussed by the House Natural Resources Subcommittee on Federal Lands and is a pretty simple piece of legislation. The bill would officially add the three local trails in Minnesota's Arrowhead region to the NCNST, extend the trail's eastern terminus from the New York border to connect with the Appalachian Trail in Vermont and would correct the mileage to include the new sections of trail, which will bring the trail's total mileage to more than 4,600 miles. The NCNST has been using the three local trails as part of its network for more than 10 years, but with the symbolic designation, the profiles of the trails will be raised and potentially there will be more resources available to those trails. The biggest changes to the trails most hikers would see is that, at regular intervals, there will also be signs that designate the trails as part of the NCNST. "To be able to use the official North Country Trail emblem on the Superior Hiking Trail and the Kekakabic, is symbolic as it has always been the route in order to do the trail in the past, but that symbolism is really important in terms of recognition," North Country Trail Association executive director Bruce Matthews said. "If you look at the current issue of Backpacker magazine, which is all about through trails and being able to say that you are a part of that is a positive thing, it's a feather in the cap and it increases the visibility and notoriety associated." Whether it's a mountain with a dramatic view of Lake Superior, hidden waterfalls, steep cliffs or a secluded spot in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, the SHT and the Kekakabic Trail provide plenty of what hikers seek. "The coolest thing about our trail is that we aren't looking for the shortest route," Matt Davis, NCTA regional trail coordinator for North … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://nolan.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/star-tribune-us-house-passes-21st-century-cures-act | Star Tribune: U.S. House passes 21st Century Cures Act | 2016-12-14 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Rick Nolan | N000127 | nolan.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON – The U.S. House on Wednesday overwhelmingly passed a wide-ranging medical research bill designed to fund scientific innovations and cutting-edge therapies while also getting medical devices and drugs to market faster. The 21st Century Cures Act covers everything from a "cancer moonshot" designed to cure that dreaded disease to money to address the nation's opioid addiction crisis to a precision medicine initiative. It also outlines new, quicker ways of proving the safety and effectiveness of drugs and devices and funds the National Institutes of Health and the Food and Drug Administration. The multibillion-dollar, 1,000-page bill took two years to negotiate with the last compromise coming just days before the House vote. The Obama administration supports the bill. Rep. Fred Upton, R-Mich., one of the act's chief architects, called it a "giant leap on the path to cures. The consensus in the 392-26 vote marked a contrast to the partisan battles that have consumed the legislative body in recent years. "No family is untouched by disease," said Rep. John Kline, Minnesota Republican in the Second District. "I was pleased we could come together to pass bipartisan legislation that aims to reduce the reach of life-altering diseases by reforming our approach to medical innovation, and ultimately saving and improving lives." Democratic Rep. Rick Nolan pointed to the act's comprehensive approach. "The bill provides substantial new funding for research into cancer and many other diseases, including $1 billion to supplement opioid abuse prevention and treatment activities; accelerates clinics trials and FDA approval of new drugs and provides a major new emphasis on providing more community mental health services," he said. "Of course, there are still improvements that could have been made to the legislation; but this bill constitutes a real bipartisan effort to move medical research and health care delivery into the 21st century." The medical device industry, which makes up a critical chunk of Minnesota's economy, … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://nolan.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/the-huffington-post-this-congress-has-spent-one-million-hours-raising-money | The Huffington Post: This Congress Has Spent One Million Hours Raising Money | 2016-12-14 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Rick Nolan | N000127 | nolan.house.gov | legacy | Imagine you were just put in charge of a corporation with a $6 billion budget and more than 20,000 employees that had the ability to control $4 trillion in market activity. Now imagine that you find out that members of your senior management team are spending half their time doing something other than their jobs. Well, we, the people, are in charge of hiring and firing, through our votes, members of Congress. It costs us taxpayers about $6 billion a year to operate Congress, which in turn has the power to appropriate and oversee $4 trillion in government spending. The problem is that members of Congress — the senior managers — are spending half of their time raising campaign cash. That’s time they’re not spending attending oversight hearings, reaching out to their constituents or building the bipartisan bridges necessary to move legislation forward. That includes, by the way, federal spending legislation, which is evidenced by the fact that Congress, regardless of who is in control, cannot consistently pass a budget. It just keeps passing “continuing resolutions” to kick the hard work of compromise to the next Congress. Every two years, we, the bosses, have the ability to hire and fire our employees, and to imbue them with a sense of the mission and strategy of the organization moving forward. This cycle, candidates up and down the ticket have heard one message repeatedly from average their bosses: it is time to reduce the stranglehold money and its influence have over our leaders and government. Yet, as of today, starting when the 114th Congress began its work on January 6, 2015, we estimate the 535 members of the House and Senate have collectively spent more than one million hours cold-calling and grip-and-grinning donors at breakfasts and dinners. With this in mind, here is my challenge to the 115th Congress: In January when the clock starts over, work together to fix the system so you don’t have to spend 50 percent of your time raising money from deep-pocketed donors, interest groups and unions. … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://mccollum.house.gov/press-release/mccollum-statement-federal-review-st-anthony-police-department | McCollum Statement on Federal Review of St. Anthony Police Department | 2016-12-14 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Betty McCollum | M001143 | mccollum.house.gov | legacy | Congresswoman Betty McCollum (DFL-Minn.) released the following statement after the United States Department of Justice announced plans for a “comprehensive review” of the St. Anthony Police Department: “After the shooting of Philando Castile in July, I called for a full federal investigation by the Department of Justice to determine relevant facts and ensure accountability appropriate to those facts. Today’s announcement of a Department of Justice review of the St. Anthony Police Department is another step in securing the accountability our entire community deserves. “A thorough federal review of the St. Anthony Police Department has the potential to improve policing, build greater trust between citizens and police, and help us achieve our common goal of a safe, non-violent community. I commend Attorney General Loretta Lynch and the Department of Justice for launching this review and look forward to its conclusions.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://nolan.house.gov/media-center/latest-update/cures-act-funds-biden-s-cancer-moonshot-aims-to-revolutionize-medical | Cures Act Funds Bidens Cancer Moonshot Aims to Revolutionize Medical Research and Treatment | 2016-12-13 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Rick Nolan | N000127 | nolan.house.gov | legacy | With my strong support, the House passed the bipartisan 21st Century Cures Act, which many are calling a “once in a generation” plan to revolutionize the way we research and treat disease. It’s a long-term, national commitment to discover, develop and deliver new treatments and cures for cancer and neuromuscular diseases like Parkinson’s. Important provisions are included to fight opioid addiction, improve community mental health services, expand patient access to clinical trials and safely speed and modernize FDA approval for cutting edge medicines and life-saving medical devices. Three years in the making, preparation for the ten-year, $4.8 billion measure involved hearings and meetings all over the country with physicians, researchers, patients and medical industry leaders, among others. Everyone had a say in what the final bill contains. It’s about 1,000 pages long, but here are highlights of what the new funding will support: Vice President Biden’s Cancer Moonshot. Goals include powerful new research leading to additional breakthroughs in immunotherapy and cutting edge combined therapies, development of vaccines to prevent and cure cancer and faster, better diagnostic testing for cancer. Personalized, precisian medical treatment. The bill supports researchers working to develop medicines tailored to each individual patient rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. Expanded community mental health services. The measure provides grants and other assistance for local mental health initiatives including suicide prevention and help for communities to provide individuals in crisis with nearby treatment and residential facilities. Support is also included for mental health services benefitting children showing early signs of mental disorders. President Obama’s BRAIN Initiative. The Cures Act promotes bold new research to help doctors and researchers better understand the human brain, more successfully treat traumatic brain injuries, and uncover new ways to prevent, treat and cure disorders such as Alzheimer’s’, aut… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://franken.senate.gov/?p=press_release&id=3590 | In Senate Speech, Sen. Franken Honors Veteran, Author, and Advocate Luis Montalvan | 2016-12-12 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Al Franken | F000457 | franken.senate.gov | legacy | In a speech delivered on the Senate floor Friday night, U.S. Sen. Al Franken (D-Minn.) honored Luis Montalvan, a veteran, author, and advocate who served in Iraq and inspired Sen. Franken's very first piece of legislation seven years ago. That bill—the Service Dogs for Veterans Act—aimed to increase the number of service dogs for veterans like Luis and was quickly passed into law. Montalvan tragically passed away earlier this month at the age of 43."Luis deserves to be honored because he dedicated his life to helping other veterans cope with the same struggles he faced after returning from war," said Sen. Franken. "Luis turned his story into a book entitled Until Tuesday that chronicled his journey after returning from Iraq. It was a candid and really deeply moving account of his struggle. I've always admired the bravery that it took for Luis to share it.Sen. Franken continued, "I'm so proud of you for giving hope to other veterans who faced the same struggles you did. Your book still sits on my desk in the Senate. And it'll stay there as a reminder of the man I'm so proud to have called my friend." You can watch Sen. Franken's speech here and read the remarks as prepared for delivery here or below. Floor Statement Honoring Luis MontalvanSenator Al Franken(As prepared for delivery) M. President, I rise today to honor a very special man, and one of my personal heroes, Captain Luis Montalvan. On Monday I received the news that Luis had died last Friday. This has been a difficult week, M. President, and I am grieving his death. But Luis deserves to be honored because he dedicated his life to helping other veterans cope with the same struggles he faced after returning from war. So I hope to do him justice because his story deserves to be told. I was so inspired by meeting Luis and Tuesday that while I was waiting for my election to the Senate to be resolved in 2009, I spent a lot of time researching service dogs and the benefits they bring. And when I got into the Senate, the first piece of legislation I intro… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://franken.senate.gov/?p=press_release&id=3591 | Sens. Franken, Klobuchar Fight to Support Students Defrauded by Globe University and Minnesota School of Business | 2016-12-12 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Al Franken | F000457 | franken.senate.gov | legacy | With Globe University and Minnesota School of Business being cut off from federal education funding as a result of rampant fraud and misuse, U.S. Sens. Al Franken (D-Minn.) and Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) are calling for action to support students who were defrauded by the for-profit college group.In a letter to the Education Department, the Senators said that all students who attended the schools during the time period when fraud was committed should be able to access important student debt relief options-similar to what is currently available to students who participated in Globe and Minnesota School of Business' criminal justice programs, which were found to be violating consumer fraud laws."...we ask that you qualify all students who attended Globe and [Minnesota School of Business] during the period when misrepresentations were made for borrower defense to repayment," wrote the Senators. "We urge you to work quickly to address their cases and provide these current and former students with the relief to which they are entitled. In addition to qualifying them for borrower defense, we ask that you notify all current and past [students], enrolled since 2007, of their eligibility for borrower defense, their rights under these regulations, and all other options that are available to them for relief from their federal loan debt." A member of the Senate Education Committee, Sen. Franken has been working hard to ensure that students who go to college are protected from fraudulent for-profit schools. He's long focused on addressing college affordability, which he calls one of the most pressing economic issues for our country. He's led college affordability round tables all across Minnesota, and has written several pieces of legislation to help students and families pay for college-like the bill he helped introduce to let student loan borrowers refinance their loans at lower rates. He has two bipartisan measures that would give students and families better information about the costs of college, which you can read about h… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://mccollum.house.gov/press-release/mccollum-we-must-defend-our-democracy-russian-attacks | McCollum: We Must Defend Our Democracy From Russian Attacks | 2016-12-12 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Betty McCollum | M001143 | mccollum.house.gov | legacy | In a post on Medium published Monday, December 12, 2016, Congresswoman Betty McCollum called for a strong, swift and sustained response to defend our democracy from Russian attacks: The Central Intelligence Agency has determined with “high confidence” — the intelligence community’s highest degree of certainty — that Russia launched a state-sponsored cyber attack intended to influence the presidential election to the benefit of Donald Trump. The White House has confirmed that “the Intelligence Community made very clear that [the hacking] was activity directed by the highest levels of the Russian government.” When a foreign power launches cyber attacks, manipulates sensitive political data, and spreads fake news stories to influence who is elected President of the United States, it is tantamount to an attack on the United States. Michael Morell, a distinguished leader at the CIA and the agency’s former acting director, said yesterday: “A foreign government messing around in our elections is, I think, an existential threat to our way of life. To me, and this is to me not an overstatement, this is the political equivalent of 9/11.” There is a clear bipartisan belief that this Russian attack demands a response. For instance, Senator Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) said: “I’m going after Russia in every way you can go after Russia. I think they did interfere in our elections and I want [Russian President Vladimir] Putin personally to pay a price.” I urge President Barack Obama to respond against Russia proportionally, forcefully, and unequivocally. The United States must show President Putin and the world that tampering with an American election will be considered an attack on the American people. For example, President Obama could immediately recall the U.S. ambassador to Moscow and expel Russia’s ambassador to the United States. In light of his government’s actions, allowing Russia’s ambassador to remain in Washington is intolerable. He should be considered persona non grata. Unfortunately, Mr. Trump and his advisors appear … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=BE4574D4-725A-4CE3-9EE5-106A510037E0 | Klobuchar, Ernst Bill to Cut Red Tape and Wait Times for Veterans Scheduling Appointments at VA Medical Facilities Passes Senate, Heads to President’s Desk to be Signed into Law | 2016-12-12 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Amy Klobuchar | K000367 | www.klobuchar.senate.gov | legacy | A June 2014 internal audit by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) found that more than 120,000 veterans waited at least 90 days for appointments for health care or never received appointments; other hospitals and health systems have developed technology to eliminate wait times and ensure that every available appointment is used Klobuchar, Ernst bipartisan bill would direct the Secretary of the VA to create a pilot program that will allow veterans to use available technology to self-schedule and confirm appointments for health care at VA medical facilities WASHINGTON, DC— U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Joni Ernst (R-IA) announced that their bipartisan bill that would establish a patient self-scheduling appointment system at Veterans Affairs Medical Facilities has passed the Senate and is headed to the President’s desk to be signed into law. A June 2014 internal audit by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) found that more than 120,000 veterans waited at least 90 days for appointments for health care or never received appointments. Other hospitals and health systems are now leveraging technology to eliminate wait times and ensure that every available appointment is used. The bipartisan Faster Care for Veterans Act would direct the Secretary of the VA to commence a pilot program under which veterans could use the internet to schedule and confirm appointments for health care at VA medical facilities. “Excessive wait times can put veterans’ lives at risk, but state-of-the art technology that makes it easier to schedule appointments already exists and is being used in other hospital systems,” said Klobuchar. “Our veterans have earned the right to use the same technology to schedule their medical appointments without unnecessary red tape and delays. This bipartisan bill will take an important step forward in ensuring that our brave men and women who have sacrificed so much have access to the medical care they need and deserve.” “The long wait times our veterans face are simply unacceptable,” sa… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=E46A7167-97E9-4C9E-8A62-2A1D7210E789 | Klobuchar Priorities Pass Senate in Bipartisan Water Infrastructure Bill, Heads to President’s Desk for Signature | 2016-12-12 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Amy Klobuchar | K000367 | www.klobuchar.senate.gov | legacy | Bipartisan bill includes Klobuchar’s priorities to provide critical resources and funding to conserve and restore fish and wildlife populations in the Great Lakes; allocates priority funding from the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund for the Great Lakes Navigation System; and authorizes critical infrastructure assistance to address lead contamination of drinking water WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar announced that several of her key priorities have passed the Senate as part of the Water Infrastructure Improvement Act. The bipartisan bill, which now heads to the President’s desk for his signature, includes Klobuchar’s provision to provide critical resources and funding to conserve fish and wildlife populations in the Great Lakes, as well as allocating priority funding from the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund for the Great Lakes Navigation System, and authorizing critical infrastructure assistance to address lead contamination of drinking water, among others.“Our 21st century economy demands 21st century infrastructure, and that requires investments in our waterways, like the all-important Great Lakes,” Klobuchar said. “This bill supports water infrastructure projects that will boost our economy, restoration projects that will benefit our wildlife, and helps make sure that our children’s drinking water is safe and free of lead. There’s a lot that was good about this bill, but it wasn’t perfect. I’ll keep fighting to make sure we have a permanent extension of provisions to prioritize American workers when rebuilding our country’s infrastructure.”Klobuchar’s priorities in the bipartisan water infrastructure bill agreement include: • Great Lakes Fish and Wildlife Restoration Act: The legislation, which Klobuchar introduced along with Senators Rob Portman (R-OH), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), and Mark Kirk (R-IL), reauthorizes the Great Lakes Fish and Wildlife Restoration Act. Reforms in the bill will allow grant recipients to use the value of donated land and conservation easements as part of their non-federal cost… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://franken.senate.gov/?p=press_release&id=3589 | Sen. Franken Leads Senate Resolution that Questions U.S. Nuclear Arsenal Modernization Plans | 2016-12-09 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Al Franken | F000457 | franken.senate.gov | legacy | Today, U.S. Sen. Al Franken (D-Minn.) introduced a Senate resolution urging the President to ensure that the United States' nuclear arsenal modernization plans don't jeopardize critical national security priorities.The United States currently maintains a force of approximately 7,000 nuclear weapons and there is substantial controversy over whether the current modernization plan goes beyond assuring the nuclear deterrent is secure and reliable. The current plan was launched in a different budget era and current estimates state that the total cost for modernizing and maintaining the nuclear force may cost as much as $1 trillion over the next three decades. Numerous distinguished national security experts believe that this investment will significantly hamper the ability of the United States to respond to conventional and unconventional threats we may face."We need to do everything we can to make sure that our nuclear arsenal is safe, secure, and reliable,"said Sen. Franken. "But if we don't reevaluate and modify current plans to modernize our nuclear weapons, we could end up wasting billions of taxpayer dollars and compromise our national security. My resolution urges the President to take action to ensure that the modernization plan is focused on the safety, affordability, and reliability of the arsenal, and doesn't jeopardize other economic and national security priorities."Sen. Franken's resolution-which is cosponsored by Sens. Sanders, Whitehouse, Warren, Markey, Merkley, Baldwin, Schatz, Wyden, Boxer, Leahy, Brown, and Murphy-calls on the President to ensure the affordability and feasibility of the nuclear modernization plan. Further, his resolution calls for the President to prioritize programs that will retain the United States' nuclear deterrence needs while not jeopardizing other economic and security investments vital to maintaining a robust ability to respond to 21st century threats.You can read the resolution here. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-defazio-introduce-advancing-and-promoting-programming-app-act | Emmer, DeFazio Introduce the Advancing and Promoting Programming (APP) Act | 2016-12-09 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Republican | House | MN | Tom Emmer | E000294 | emmer.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. – This week, Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) and Congressman Peter DeFazio (OR-04) introduced the Advancing and Promoting Programming (APP) Act.The APP Act creates a centralized website that aims to assist individuals and small businesses access to federal funding in the form of grants, programs, prizes and request for proposals for the creation of mobile and computer applications.The APP Act will also create an platform where Americans are able to rate and comment on the different federal government apps, and retire old or obsolete ones. Lastly, the APP Act will feature successful educational programs and non-profit resources that provide computer science education for the next generation of programmers.“This week is Computer Science Education Week - a week designated to inspire our nation’s students to become interested and involved in computer science,” said Emmer. “We are in the midst of a digital revolution and it is imperative we keep up with the changing times to ensure and improve our future success, and the APP Act does just that. In order for the United States to remain competitive, we must encourage innovation and highlight the importance that science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) skills will have on our future.”“As the global economy becomes increasingly connected, Congress needs to ease the way as much as possible for tech development,” said DeFazio. “The APP Act will help connect students with resources to improve their coding skills and work towards gaining high-paying jobs in the tech sector, as well as offer a comprehensive platform for developers to find funding and resources for building apps. As the app community continues to grow and thrive, it is essential the government helps ensure that developers have the tools they need to stay competitive.”This legislation is supported by The App Association: “The App Association supports The APP Act, and measures like it, which would make computer science education a national priority,” said Jonathan Godfrey, VP for Pub… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=F9587C43-06B2-498F-AC47-EC0E5C2A1EFC | Klobuchar, Bipartisan Group of Senators Call on President-elect Trump to Stand Against Russian Aggression, Support NATO and Ukrainian Sovereignty | 2016-12-09 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Amy Klobuchar | K000367 | www.klobuchar.senate.gov | legacy | Almost three years after Russia’s illegal annexation of Crimea and military aggression in eastern Ukraine, daily ceasefire violations along the line of contact make a mockery of the Minsk Agreement and demonstrate that this conflict in the heart of Europe is far from over In a letter to President-elect Trump, Klobuchar and a bipartisan group of senators call for increased political, economic, and military support for Ukraine WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S Senator Amy Klobuchar and a bipartisan group of senators have called on President-elect Trump to stand against Russian aggression and support NATO and Ukrainian sovereignty. Almost three years after Russia’s illegal annexation of Crimea and military aggression in eastern Ukraine, daily ceasefire violations along the line of contact make a mockery of the Minsk agreement and demonstrate that this conflict in the heart of Europe is far from over. In a letter to President-elect Trump, Klobuchar and a bipartisan group of senators called for increased political, economic, and military support for Ukraine. “In light of Russia’s continued aggression and repeated refusal to respect Ukraine’s territorial integrity and sovereign right to choose its own destiny, we also renew our call for the United States to increase political, economic, and military support for Ukraine,” the senators wrote. “This includes defensive lethal assistance as part of a broader effort to help Ukrainians better defend themselves, deter future aggression, and implement key structural reforms. Similarly, we believe that Russia’s illegal annexation of Crimea should never be accepted, nor should we lift sanctions imposed on Russia for its behavior in eastern Ukraine until key provisions of the Minsk Agreement are met. Accordingly, U.S. leadership on maintaining such transatlantic sanctions should remain a priority.” In addition to Klobuchar, the letter was also signed by U.S. Senators Richard Durbin (D-IL), Rob Portman (R-OH), John McCain (R-AZ), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Marco Rubio (R-FL), Sherrod… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://ellison.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-ellison-and-johnson-call-for-accountability-for-human-rights-abuses | Reps. Ellison and Johnson Call for Accountability for Human Rights Abuses in Honduras | 2016-12-08 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Keith Ellison | E000288 | ellison.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON– Reps. Keith Ellison (D-MN) and Hank Johnson (D-GA), along with 27 Members of the House, sent a letter today to Secretary of State John Kerry and Secretary of Treasury Jacob Lew expressing growing concern about human rights violations in Honduras. This letter coincides with the nine-month anniversary of Berta Cáceres’s tragic murder. The full text of the letter appears below, and the signed letter can be viewed here. Dear Secretary Kerry and Secretary Lew: We write to follow up on our letter of March 17, 2016, signed by 62 Members of Congress, in which we expressed our concerns regarding the murder of Berta Cáceres -- the internationally-renowned Honduran Indigenous rights advocate-- and regarding human rights and U.S. policy in Honduras more generally. Since that time, our fears have only increased. We are concerned that the Government of Honduras continues to unduly limit access to the investigation into the murder of Ms. Cáceras and shooting of Gustavo Castro, a key witness who was shot along with Ms. Cáceres. Under Honduran law, victims and their families have the right to actively participate in the prosecution of the case; however, Ms. Cáceres’s investigative file remains secret seven months later. This significantly constrains the family’s legally guaranteed involvement in the case and limits its ability to advocate for a speedy prosecution of those implicated. We are also alarmed that Honduran authorities were careless in handling the case file, as the file was allowed off government property and subsequently stolen. This raises further questions about the ability of Honduran authorities to manage Ms. Cáceres’s case and impartially prosecute the case. We were pleased to learn that five suspects were arrested in connection with Ms. Cáceres’s murder in May 2016 and a sixth suspect was arrested in September. Those arrested include: a current employee of the hydroelectric dam development company DESA, the builder of the dam that Ms. Cáceres and the Lenca Indigenous communities in Rio Blanco active… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/bipartisan-cuba-working-group-encourages-president-elect-trump-continue | Bipartisan Cuba Working Group Encourages President-elect Trump to Continue U.S. Engagement Efforts with Cuba | 2016-12-08 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Republican | House | MN | Tom Emmer | E000294 | emmer.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. – Reps. Tom Emmer (R-MN), Kathy Castor (D-FL), Rick Crawford (R-AR) and Barbara Lee (D-CA) led a letter, along with more than a dozen of their colleagues from the Cuba Working Group, to President-elect Trump calling for the continued normalization of trade relations with Cuba and to empower the Cuban people. The Cuba Working Group was established to promote increased trade, travel and investment in Cuba, to open new markets, create jobs in both countries, promote human rights and improve the security posture of the United States.“The recent death of Fidel Castro represents a dawn of a new era in Cuban leadership and the United States must use this time to help chart a new course for Cuba’s future,” said Emmer. “I look forward to working with President-elect Trump to continue our efforts in Congress to empower the Cuban people, facilitate economic reforms, promote the expansion of civil and religious liberties, and strengthen our regional and national security abroad.”“Cuban families and small business owners are eager to accelerate economic and human rights reforms and America must continue to support them,” said Castor. “The entrepreneurial spirit is alive and well in Cuba and greater engagement will encourage Cuba to go farther and faster. Slamming the door shut at this point in time would be disastrous. Instead, we should meet the challenge of better diplomatic relations, economic opportunities for Cubans and Americans, expanded travel, and support for the dignity of the Cuban people.“I’ve seen the positive changes already taking place in Cuba’s economy and its people, change that Fidel’s recent passing will hasten,” said Crawford. “If the United States wants to prevent nations like China from dominating Cuba’s future, then we do need to consider ways to capitalize on those changes, for both national security and economic reasons. I strongly encourage the incoming administration to consider incrementally reforming our relationship with Cuba in a way that supports American businesses and aids t… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://mccollum.house.gov/press-release/mccollum-remarks-opposition-five-month-continuing-resolution | McCollum Remarks In Opposition to Five-Month Continuing Resolution | 2016-12-08 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Betty McCollum | M001143 | mccollum.house.gov | legacy | Congresswoman Betty McCollum (DFL-Minn.) delivered the following remarks on the House Floor about her opposition to the FY2017 Continuing Resolution: Mr. Speaker, once again this Congress has abandoned its responsibility to provide a full year appropriation. Months of hard work were thrown away, pushing important funding decisions down the road. I’ve heard from families and business leaders in my district who are worried about the uncertainty that continuing resolutions create in their daily lives. This is not a good way to govern and it is not good for our country. As the Ranking Member of the Interior and Environment Subcommittee, I am disappointed that this bill only provides five months of funding for priorities like clean air, clean water, our national parks and our treaty obligations to tribal nations. We need the security of full-year funding for hospitals and schools in Indian Country, management of our national forests and parks, and the Environmental Protection Agency’s monitoring of toxins that threaten the health of our families. Instead, this legislation leaves these programs in jeopardy again in April. This bill does take an important step to assist with the lead poisoning crisis in Flint, though it is less than what is needed and comes far too late. I also want to thank Chairman Calvert, as well as Chairman Rogers and Ranking Member Lowey, for working with me to ensure that this bill does not contain any new policy riders that would impact the Interior and Environment Subcommittee’s jurisdiction. My biggest concern with this legislation is not Interior related, but instead involves a fundamental principle of our democracy. The decision by Republican Leadership to include language that would limit a full public debate on the Senate confirmation of the nominee for Secretary of Defense is alarming. Civilian control of our military has been a cornerstone of American Democracy since our country’s founding. When the Secretary of Defense position was created in 1947, this principle was enshrined into l… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/klobuchar-emmer-and-bipartisan-congressional-coalition-highlight-need | Klobuchar, Emmer, and Bipartisan Congressional Coalition Highlight the Need for Congress to Lift the Trade Embargo with Cuba | 2016-12-07 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Republican | House | MN | Tom Emmer | E000294 | emmer.house.gov | legacy | Klobuchar and Emmer joined with a bipartisan congressional coalition and Cuban entrepreneurs to discuss how increased trade is benefiting American economy and allowing Cuba’s private sector to grow Last year, Klobuchar introduced the bipartisan Freedom to Export to Cuba Act in the Senate to lift the trade embargo and knock down the legal barriers to Americans doing business in Cuba; Emmer has introduced the House companion version of the bill WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar, Representative Tom Emmer, and a bipartisan congressional coalition held a press conference with Cuban entrepreneurs to highlight the need for Congress to lift the trade embargo with Cuba. Last year, Klobuchar introduced the bipartisan Freedom to Export to Cuba Act in the Senate to lift the trade embargo and knock down the legal barriers to Americans doing business in Cuba. Emmer has introduced the House companion version of the bill. “For far too long, U.S.-Cuba policy has been defined by the conflicts of the past instead of the realities of today and the possibilities for the future. I’ve spoken with business owners in Cuba and in Minnesota who look forward to the new economic opportunities that would come with lifting the embargo,” Klobuchar said. “We need to turn the page on the failed policy of isolation and build on the progress we have made to open up engagement with Cuba by ending the embargo once and for all.” “Over the past two years there have been important changes on the island just 90 miles off our coast,” said Emmer. “The private-sector economy in Cuba continues to grow and today, we heard from four incredible young women who have excelled as entrepreneurs and are eager for the ability to grow, expand and continue their success. I look forward to working with President-elect Trump and the 115th Congress to make their success a reality and provide new opportunities for both Cubans and Americans alike.” Klobuchar’s bipartisan Freedom to Export to Cuba Act, which currently has 25 Senate cosponsors, li… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/klobuchar-emmer-and-bipartisan-congressional-coalition-highlight-need-0 | Klobuchar, Emmer, and Bipartisan Congressional Coalition Highlight the Need for Congress to Lift the Trade Embargo with Cuba | 2016-12-07 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Republican | House | MN | Tom Emmer | E000294 | emmer.house.gov | legacy | Washington D.C. – Following efforts by Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) and Congresswoman Betty McCollum (MN-04), legislation enabling Minnesota’s bid to host the World’s Fair in 2023, was passed unanimously in the House of Representatives today. This bill, The U.S. Wants to Compete for a World Expo Act, boasts the entire Minnesota delegation as cosponsors. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://mccollum.house.gov/mccollum-statement-national-park-service-centennial-act | McCollum Statement on National Park Service Centennial Act | 2016-12-07 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Betty McCollum | M001143 | mccollum.house.gov | legacy | Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the National Park Service Centennial Act. This year, our nation is celebrating the first one hundred years of what filmmaker Ken Burns so accurately labelled “America’s best idea”. With this legislation, we are helping to strengthen the National Park Service for its second century of serving visitors and conserving our national treasures. America’s National Parks are the best example of our commitment to preserve and celebrate the natural wonder and cultural heritage of the United States. It is our responsibility to ensure that future generations can have the same chance our families do to experience our national landscapes and history. The Centennial Act will support that goal by building upon the public-private partnerships created by the extremely successful National Park Service’s Centennial Challenge. Federal investments of $25 million over the past two years have been more than doubled by private investments. These public-private collaborations provide an opportunity to reinvest in our parks and to re-engage with the hundreds of millions of visitors who come to our parks every year. In Minnesota’s 4th District, the Centennial Challenge supported a vibrant new visitor center in the heart of St. Paul to connect families to an urban National Park: the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area. In addition, the Centennial Act establishes an endowment for the National Park Service. The gifts and donations that go into the endowment will form a base of funding to address future park projects and needs. This endowment fund will protect ancient landscapes and tell the ever evolving story of the American people and our nation. It will help to preserve the unique ecosystem within our oldest parks, like Yellowstone and Yosemite. It will demonstrate the diversity of the American dream at the newly created Stonewall and Belmont-Paul Women's Equality National Monuments. For a century, the National Park Service has conserved our natural treasures, preserved our cultu… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://mccollum.house.gov/press-release/mccollum-statement-nomination-scott-pruitt-epa-administrator | McCollum Statement on Nomination of Scott Pruitt as EPA Administrator | 2016-12-07 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Betty McCollum | M001143 | mccollum.house.gov | legacy | Congresswoman Betty McCollum (DFL-Minn.), the Ranking Member of the Interior-Environment Appropriations Subcommittee, released the following statement on President-elect Donald Trump’s nomination of Oklahoma Attorney General Scott Pruitt as Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency: “President-elect Donald Trump has repeatedly demonstrated a willingness to put polluters’ profits ahead of the health of our communities and the future of our planet. His nomination of Scott Pruitt as Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency is further proof that the Trump administration will cater to big polluters and the fossil fuel industry. “The Environmental Protection Agency plays a critical role as the watchdog for clean air, clean water, and public health. Unfortunately, Mr. Pruitt’s record as Oklahoma Attorney General includes secretly colluding with energy industry lobbyists to fight important clean air and clean water rules, including those that address climate change. We must not allow this anti-environmental agenda to become the law of the land. “With the Pruitt nomination, President-elect Trump has shown once again that he cannot be trusted as a responsible steward of our environment. As the lead Democrat on the committee that funds the Environmental Protection Agency, I will keep fighting alongside all Americans who care about the health of our communities and the future of our planet.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=0C4829F4-8D6E-49BE-9FE8-E07E0B83AF80 | Klobuchar-Backed 21st Century CURES Act Includes Funding for Opioid Abuse Treatment and Prevention, Legislation Also Includes Her Anna Westin Act to Combat Eating Disorders | 2016-12-07 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Amy Klobuchar | K000367 | www.klobuchar.senate.gov | legacy | Bipartisan legislation contains $1 billion in funding for the treatment and prevention called for in Klobuchar’s bipartisan bill to combat prescription drug abuse, which was signed into law earlier this year Legislation also includes Klobuchar’s Anna Westin Act to help combat eating disorders, which builds on Paul Wellstone’s mental health bill; Anna’s mom Kitty lives in Minnesota and has been a national leader in advocating for passage of this legislation WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar announced that the 21st Century CURES ACT, bipartisan legislation she has backed and which passed the Senate today, includes $1 billion in funding for the treatment and prevention called for in Klobuchar’s bipartisan bill to combat prescription drug abuse, which was signed into law earlier this year. The bill also includes her Anna Westin Act legislation to combat eating disorders, which builds on Paul Wellstone’s mental health bill, and contains nearly $5 billion in funding for research into cures for Alzheimer’s, cancer, and other diseases. The bill now heads to the president’s desk to be signed into law. “The passage of this significant bipartisan legislation will move our country forward in the efforts to ensure treatment for addiction is attainable, mental health care is accessible, and cures for diseases are within reach," said Klobuchar. Building from Klobuchar's Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act (CARA), which was signed into law this year, this legislation includes $1 billion over two years for grants to states to supplement opioid abuse treatment and prevention activities. "This year, I was one of four senators who led the major bipartisan legislation to combat the prescription drug abuse epidemic, and the CURES Act contains much-needed funding for the addiction treatment and prevention we called for in the original CARA bill,” said Klobuchar. Klobuchar also successfully included the Anna Westin Act, which would increase training and education on eating disorders and ensure parity for insurance … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=24739C5E-6DB5-4377-9AA2-615EF56C851A | Klobuchar Statement on Pfizer’s 2600% Price Hike on Anti-Epilepsy Drug in United Kingdom | 2016-12-07 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Amy Klobuchar | K000367 | www.klobuchar.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar released the following statement today on Pfizer’s 2600% price hike on its anti-epilepsy drug in the United Kingdom: “This proves yet again that pharmaceutical companies are misleading regulators around the world,” said Klobuchar. “In the United States, Mylan Pharmaceuticals announced that it reached an agreement with the Department of Justice regarding a misclassification of the EpiPen through the Medicaid Drug Rebate Program, which cost states and the federal government millions, maybe more. In the United Kingdom, Pfizer – a U.S. company – classified its anti-epilepsy drug as a generic to overcharge the government there. We need to crackdown on these practices that drive down competition and drive up costs for consumers worldwide.” Klobuchar has been a national leader in the effort to bring down the costs of prescription drugs. In November, Klobuchar called on Mylan to reimburse the Department of Defense (DoD) for past overpayments for the EpiPen Auto-Injector. Mylan’s misclassification of the EpiPen as a “non-innovator multiple source drug” led the DoD to pay exorbitant rates for the drug at retail pharmacies. Klobuchar has also called on the Department of Justice to consider investigating whether Mylan Pharmaceuticals violated the law when it apparently misclassified its EpiPen product in order to pay a lower rebate to states and reap huge profits at the expense of taxpayers. She has also called on the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to answer questions about its approval process and other steps for alternatives to the EpiPen. In August, Klobuchar wrote to Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to call on the agency to provide information on the effect of Mylan’s price increases on government prescription drug costs, asking specifically why EpiPen was classified as a generic drug under the Medicaid Drug Rebate Program. Following these efforts, CMS found that Mylan had misclassified the EpiPen as a “non-innovator multiple source drug,” or gener… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=7BD745E8-475C-4BE4-9C6A-A0D699CD618C | Klobuchar Presses for Answers on the Impact of the Proposed AT&T-Time Warner Transaction on Consumers and Competition During Antitrust Subcommittee Hearing | 2016-12-07 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Amy Klobuchar | K000367 | www.klobuchar.senate.gov | legacy | AT&T’s acquisition of Time Warner would combine one of the world’s largest wireless, cable, and broadband providers with one of the world’s largest media and entertainment companies Klobuchar examined the acquisition’s effect on independent content providers, possible harm to consumers, and the effectiveness of conditions that would remedy concerns over the merger WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar today pressed for answers on the impact of the proposed AT&T-Time Warner transaction on consumers and competition during a Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Antitrust, Competition, and Consumer Rights hearing. AT&T’s acquisition of Time Warner would combine one of the world’s largest wireless, cable, and broadband providers with one of the world’s largest media and entertainment companies. Klobuchar, the ranking member of the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Antitrust, Competition, and Consumer Rights, examined the acquisition’s effect on independent content providers, possible harm to consumers, and the effectiveness of conditions that would remedy concerns over the merger. “We want to bring cable prices down for consumers, and we want to promote competition that drives innovation. So the question becomes, does the ATT-Time Warner merger help or hurt with this?” Klobuchar said following the hearing. “I think the answer is that it depends on whether promises are kept. Under oath, the CEOs said that they would bring prices down and that they would not discriminate against independent providers. Those were important statements, and that’s why have these hearings, so that we can continue to hold all parties accountable.” For a broadcast-quality video excerpt of Klobuchar’s opening remarks, click here. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://nolan.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kaptur-nolan-and-bustos-lead-charge-to-protect-pensions-from-back-room | Kaptur, Nolan and Bustos Lead Charge to Protect Pensions from Back Room, Last Minute Budget Moves | 2016-12-06 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Rick Nolan | N000127 | nolan.house.gov | legacy | Today, U.S. Reps. Marcy Kaptur, Rick Nolan and Cheri Bustos were joined by 38 of their colleagues in urging House Leadership to reject any proposal attacking the hard-earned pension benefits of retirees and workers added as a rider to any end-of-year legislation. Following the letter’s release, Congresswoman Kaptur had the following to say, “Without an open, thorough discussion on Chairman Kline’s composite pension proposal, we risk another round of serious cuts to worker and retirees earned pensions. This election highlighted how working-class Americans feel defenseless to Washington’s backroom deal-making, which consistently leaves them shouldering the burden of bad policy decisions. America’s workers deserve more from their elected representatives and it starts with the ability to hold Members accountable for votes. Pension reform must pass through the House in Regular Order, not as a rider to must pass legislation.” “Passing a proposal of this nature in the dead-of-night would be disastrous for working people across the Nation,” Nolan said. “We cannot allow a repeat of the 2014 funding bill, when the Multiemployer Pension Reform Act (MPRA) was added to the ‘Cromnibus’ at the last minute without an independent vote. And we owe it to the American people to follow the process of Regular Order, just as Speaker Ryan promised after being elected Speaker.” “The American people are tired of Washington back-room deals that stack the deck for special interests against working families,” Bustos said. “We owe the people we serve a transparent process and the opportunity to review any proposal submitted before Congress. Rushing a serious proposal like this through the legislative process without a proper debate would be a disservice to the hard-working men and women that have earned these benefits throughout their career.” The lawmakers urged House Leadership to reject House Education and Workforce Chairman John Kline’s draft composite pension proposal unless further legislative debate and analysis occurs. The proposal … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://nolan.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/nolan-and-walz-team-up-to-protect-funding-for-rural-counties-and-schools | Nolan and Walz Team Up to Protect Funding for Rural Counties and Schools | 2016-12-06 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Rick Nolan | N000127 | nolan.house.gov | legacy | U.S. Reps. Rick Nolan and Tim Walz today urged leadership of the Committee on Appropriations to include urgent stopgap funding for the Secure Rural School and Self Determination (SRS) program in the anticipated Continuing Resolution which sets funding levels for the federal government. The SRS program provides compensation to rural counties with tax-exempt federal lands in their jurisdiction to go towards the funding of local school systems, law enforcement and transportation infrastructure. “Our District receives $2.3 million in funding from this important program, which is crucial for our rural communities,” Nolan said. “Our rural economy here in Minnesota depends on strong county and school systems. The fact is these programs represent a compact between the federal government and state and local governments that must be honored. There is no reason for any uncertainty going forward. “Ensuring that rural schools have access to funding is critical for our local economies to thrive,” said Rep. Walz. “Doing so is the cornerstone to building strong high-tech agriculture and manufacturing jobs in our region. Students should have opportunity regardless of where they live. Rep. Nolan and I ask the Appropriations Committee to work on behalf of students in rural areas.” The latest short-term reauthorization of the SRS program expired after fiscal year 2016 payments – barring reauthorization, counties and schools will miss out on this crucial funding stream. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://nolan.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/nolan-urges-president-elect-trump-to-join-him-in-effort-to-rebuild | Nolan Urges President-Elect Trump to Join Him in Effort to Rebuild Americas Infrastructure with American-Made Products & Steel | 2016-12-06 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Rick Nolan | N000127 | nolan.house.gov | legacy | [WASHINGTON D.C.] U.S. Rep. Rick Nolan today urged President-Elect Donald Trump to join him in his unequivocal support of the use of exclusively American-made products in all U.S. infrastructure projects. “In my District, nearly 1,000 Iron Range miners are out of work, along with thousands more steelworkers across the Nation because China and other countries are allowed to illegally dump millions of tons of low grade, cheap foreign government-subsidized steel into our marketplace,” Nolan said in his letter to the President-Elect. “There is no better way to protect American jobs and boost our Nation’s economy than to expand investment in our infrastructure, impose high tariffs and countervailing duties on cheater nations, and fortify ‘Buy America’ requirements.” Nolan has been successful in persuading the Obama Administration to impose cripplingly high tariffs on foreign steel, effectively curtailing the flood of low grade, cheap foreign government-subsidized steel into the United States. He also introduced the American Pipeline Jobs and Safety Act, which requires that all energy pipelines built and federally permitted in the United States contain 100 percent American steel – and iron ore that is mined, processed or reprocessed in America. He plans to reintroduce this legislation in the 115th Congress. The full text of the letter is below: December 6, 2016 President Elect Donald J. Trump Trump Tower 725 5th Avenue New York, NY 10022 Dear Mr. President-Elect Trump, As a member of the House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee and a vocal advocate of rebuilding and investing in our Nation’s infrastructure, I look forward to working with you to find a bipartisan, sensible way to fix our infrastructure crisis and create American jobs with living wages. As you know, our Nation’s roads are crumbling, our bridges are collapsing, trains are running off the tracks and our pipelines are cracking, causing them to spill tons of hazardous materials into our water supply. Additionally, our water infr… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://walz.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/walz-ellison-nolan-call-for-emergency-tax-relief-for-minnesota-consumers | Walz, Ellison & Nolan Call for Emergency Tax Relief for Minnesota Consumers Buying Health Insurance on Individual Market | 2016-12-06 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Tim Walz | W000799 | walz.house.gov | legacy | Mankato, MN – Today, Representatives Tim Walz (MN-01), Keith Ellison (MN-05) and Rick Nolan (MN-08) sent a letter to Speaker Paul Ryan and Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi urging that Fiscal Year 2017 federal funding legislation, which must pass by December 9, provides targeted emergency tax relief for the hardworking Americans hit by health insurance premium increases on the individual market. The request was made following reports that Minnesotans face premium increases for coverage in the individual market, with rate hikes averaging from 50% to 67% starting next year. The letter asks congressional leadership of both parties to address this hardship by extending federal tax relief to the two percent of Minnesotans who are not eligible for existing federal tax credits. Though more Minnesotans have coverage now than ever before, the population in the individual market includes many Americans who were uninsured for years. Many of these individuals are less healthy than the average American and require more expensive coverage. Others in the individual market are farmers, small business owners, or retirees who do not yet qualify for Medicare. These individuals have unique income structures that make them ineligible for tax credits but unable to afford the cost of premiums. While policymakers work toward agreeing upon a permanent bipartisan fix for the problems in the individual market, the proposed federal tax relief aims to help Americans afford the cost of their premiums in 2017. “The urgency of this crisis cannot be overstated,” the lawmakers wrote. “Any emergency tax relief should be targeted to help any consumer who cannot afford their individual insurance policy premium, regardless of whether they purchase the coverage through their state exchange (e.g., MNsure) or the federal exchange. This will help foster the robust, competitive market we need in order to provide these constituents with affordable, comprehensive and quality care.” Minnesotans began signing up for their 2017 health insurance on November 1. Rate… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-announces-toys-tots-donation-site-district-office | Emmer Announces Toys for Tots Donation Site in District Office | 2016-12-06 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Republican | House | MN | Tom Emmer | E000294 | emmer.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) today announced that his office will serve as a Toys for Tots drop-off site for the program hosted by the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve.From now through December 20th, 2016, Minnesotans can stop by Emmer’s district office in Otsego to donate new, unwrapped toys. Donations can be made Monday through Friday between 9:00am and 5:00pm.“In honor of the spirit of giving, my staff and I wanted to help bring joy to others,” said Emmer. “Minnesotans are the most gracious and generous people, and hosting a Toys for Tots donation site to help those in the northwest suburbs and central Minnesota give back more easily is the least we can do. Any role we can play in making the holidays a little brighter for children across this great state is a good idea to me.”What: Toys for Tots donation siteWhen: Now through December 20th 9:00am – 5:00pm Where: Congressman Emmer’s District Office 9201 Quaday Ave NE Suite 206 Otsego, MN 55330 ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://mccollum.house.gov/press-release/mccollum-statement-disclosure-pentagon-cost-savings-report | McCollum Statement on Disclosure of Pentagon Cost Savings Report | 2016-12-06 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Betty McCollum | M001143 | mccollum.house.gov | legacy | Congresswoman Betty McCollum (DFL-Minn.), a member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, released the following statement after the Washington Post reported that the Department of Defense discovered $125 billion in potential cost savings and then suppressed the disclosure of that information: “It is absolutely outrageous that the Defense Department discovered massive potential cost savings, refused to take action on them, and actually hid their findings from Congress. “House Republicans, who have wasted so much time and money on politically-motivated inquiries, should open an immediate investigation into cost savings and financial transparency at the Pentagon. A comprehensive Congressional review will help ensure that future reports on potential cost savings are subject to a full public discussion. “On the Defense Appropriations Subcommittee, I will keep asking the tough questions about Defense Department spending. Given the findings of this report on the scope for cost savings at the Pentagon, I continue to strongly oppose President-elect Donald Trump’s proposals for large overall increases in defense spending at the expense of important domestic priorities.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://franken.senate.gov/?p=press_release&id=3583 | Klobuchar, Franken, and Bipartisan Group of Senators Urge the International Trade Commission to Provide American Steel Plate Manufacturers Relief from Dumped and Subsidized Imports | 2016-12-05 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Al Franken | F000457 | franken.senate.gov | legacy | In 2015 alone, the domestic industry estimates that 1.2 million tons of unfairly traded imports, worth $850 million, entered the U.S. market; As of last year, U.S. producers were utilizing only 66 percent of their capacity, with U.S. plate production falling by nearly 20 percent in 2015In a letter to Chairman Williamson, Klobuchar, Franken, and members of the bipartisan U.S. Senate Steel Caucus urged the International Trade Commission to fully implement the Leveling the Playing Field Act and consider a comprehensive list of factors in the Commission's injury determination to provide relief for U.S. industries that have been harmed by unfairly traded imports Senators Amy Klobuchar and Al Franken, along with a bipartisan group of senators, have urged the United States International Trade Commission (USITC) to provide American steel plate manufacturers relief from dumped and subsidized imports. In 2015 alone, the domestic industry estimated that 1.2 million tons of unfairly traded imports, worth $850 million, entered the U.S. market. As of last year, U.S. producers were utilizing only 66 percent of their capacity, with U.S. plate production falling by nearly 20 percent in 2015. In a letter to Chairman Williamson, Klobuchar, Franken, and members of the bipartisan U.S. Senate Steel Caucus urged USITC to fully implement the Leveling the Playing Field Act and consider a comprehensive list of factors in the Commission's injury determination to provide relief for U.S. industries that have been harmed by unfairly traded imports."We write to express our concern about unfairly dumped and subsidized carbon and alloy steel cut-to-length plate imports that are harming U.S. producers. As you conduct investigations into the impact of these imports on American manufacturers, we urge you to fully implement the Leveling the Playing Field Act (Title V of P.L. 1 14-27) and consider a comprehensive list of factors in the Commission's injury determinations," the lawmakers wrote. "We appreciate the Commission's role in ensuring that U.S… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://ellison.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-ellison-statement-on-dakota-access-pipeline-decision | Rep. Ellison Statement on Dakota Access Pipeline Decision | 2016-12-05 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Keith Ellison | E000288 | ellison.house.gov | legacy | “After months of protests, I’m inspired by this victory by thousands of indigenous activists and Water Protectors, and millions of Americans who support them. “This is a victory for all people who fight for social justice. And it is a victory won by the power of peaceful protest - a reminder of what people can do when they stand up and organize. “We use environmental impact statements to understand how key projects will impact our environment and communities. I hope that Energy Transfer Partners, and most importantly, the next Administration, recognize the concerns raised by the Standing Rock Tribe. "I also want to acknowledge that the responsibility for this project falls on the Energy Transfer board room, not the workers who are simply trying to do their jobs. Working Americans need our support as well. That’s why I support a broad infrastructure package that creates good jobs for millions of American workers. “We have a responsibility to respect the sovereignty of the Standing Rock Tribe, and to ensure their voices are heard. And we must ensure that the millions of people who depend on the Missouri and Cannonball rivers have access to clean water. As the Water Protectors at Standing Rock remind us every day: Water Is Life.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://mccollum.house.gov/press-release/mccollum-applauds-us-army-corps-engineers-decision-dakota-access-pipeline | McCollum Applauds U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Decision on Dakota Access Pipeline | 2016-12-04 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Betty McCollum | M001143 | mccollum.house.gov | legacy | Congresswoman Betty McCollum (DFL-Minn.), co-chair of the Congressional Native American Caucus, released the following statement after the United States Army Corps of Engineers announced that it is denying the easement for the Dakota Access Pipeline and requiring a full environmental impact statement for the project: "I applaud the Army Corps of Engineers’ decision to conduct a more thorough review of the route of the Dakota Access Pipeline. A full environmental impact statement will appropriately consider the significant environmental and cultural concerns raised by the Standing Rock Sioux. Today's decision also makes clear that it is in the best interest of all parties to explore new routes that safeguard the environment and protect tribal sovereignty. “As the review takes place, I urge the United States Department of Justice to continue to work with the Army Corps of Engineers and the State of North Dakota to ensure that well-being, safety, and constitutional rights of protesters at Standing Rock are protected. “President Obama's respect for the sovereignty and traditions of the Standing Rock Sioux and all tribal nations has been a hallmark of his administration. I applaud the ongoing efforts of the Department of the Interior and the Department of Justice to fully consult with tribal leaders in North Dakota and across Indian Country." In September, Congresswoman McCollum led 18 Democratic Members of Congress urging the Obama administration to undertake greater consultation with the Standing Rock Sioux on the Dakota Access Pipeline. Last week, Congresswoman McCollum joined Congressman Ron Kind (D-Wisc.) urging Attorney General Loretta Lynch to prioritize the health, safety, and constitutional rights of the protestors at Standing Rock. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://collinpeterson.house.gov/rep-petersons-newsletter-11232016 | Rep. Peterson's Newsletter 11/23/2016 | 2016-12-02 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Collin Peterson | P000258 | collinpeterson.house.gov | legacy | Kittson County Dear Friends, As we celebrate Thanksgiving tomorrow, let us remember to be thankful for our families, friends, and those who help bring food to our tables. This week, I joined the Minnesota Farmers Union and the Minnesota Farm Bureau at their annual conventions to thank them for their continuing advocacy for Minnesota farmers. I also welcomed the Minnesota State Cattlemen’s Association and Minnesota Milk Producers Association to my Detroit Lakes office to discuss their important roles in our state’s agriculture economy. Sincerely, Congressman Collin C. Peterson Minnesota 7th District Minnesota Farmers Union and Minnesota Farm Bureau I joined both the Minnesota Farm Bureau and the Minnesota Farmers Union in their annual state conventions this weekend. Each year, both of these advocacy organizations convene to discuss the issues most important to the agricultural community and their goals in developing our rural economy. As we begin gearing up for the next Farm Bill, I look forward to working with these committed groups to ensure we protect and expand opportunities for our farmers. Minnesota State Cattlemen’s Association On Tuesday, I met with Tim Nolte of the Minnesota State Cattlemen's Association, and with other members via conference call (due to the weather) to discuss a variety of issues, including the Grain Inspection Packers and Stockyards Administration rule and wolves. While there is a lot of uncertainty in agriculture on what will happen with the outgoing and incoming Administrations, I will keep working to address the issues important to my constituents. Minnesota Milk Producers Association Mark & Kristine Spadgenske of Menahga, Pat Lunemann of Clarissa, and Lucas Sjostrom of Brooton On Tuesday, I met with members of the Minnesota Milk Producers Association who stopped in my Detroit Lakes office to visit about issues related to the dairy industry. In the meeting we discussed the importance of strengthening the risk management tools that dairy producers rely on to get throu… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://collinpeterson.house.gov/rep-petersons-newsletter-1222016-0 | Rep. Peterson's Newsletter 12/2/2016 | 2016-12-02 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Collin Peterson | P000258 | collinpeterson.house.gov | legacy | Pipestone County Dear Friends, The House passed several important pieces of legislation this week, including the 2017 National Defense Authorization Act and the 21st Century Cures Act, both comprehensive bills that benefit many Americans. I welcomed representatives of the National Milk Producers Federation and Alexandria Police Department Captain Scott Kent to my office to discuss upcoming legislation. I also paid tribute to USDA Secretary Vilsack at his official portrait unveiling. Sincerely, Congressman Collin C. Peterson Minnesota 7th District Honoring Secretary Vilsack I was honored to speak at the unveiling of USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack’s official portrait on Thursday. The portrait was painted by Rose Frantzen, an Iowa artist, and features Secretary Vilsack seated at his desk. I was chairman of the House Agriculture Committee when Vilsack became Secretary in 2009, and we worked closely together during the implementation of the 2008 Farm Bill. In fact, he and I sat down for lunch nearly every week during the implementation process. Our close relationship has continued throughout his tenure, working together on the 2014 Farm Bill and GMO Labeling legislation among many issues overseen by USDA. I commend him on his service to agriculture and rural America and wish him the best in his future endeavors. National Milk Producers Federation I met Thursday with Jim Mullhern, CEO of the National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF) to discuss necessary changes to the farm bill’s dairy Margin Protection Program. NMPF is working through their economic policy committee to explore changes and improvements to the current program. They are hopeful, as am I, that we can move forward with the Farm Bill next year to help dairy producers around the county. I look forward to hearing what ideas come out of their committee work early next year. Captain Scott Kent This week I was fortunate to meet with Captain Scott Kent of the Alexandria Police Department. Captain Kent was in Washington, D.C. for some specialized training wi… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://walz.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-walz-statement-on-dr-phil-roe | Rep. Walz Statement on Dr. Phil Roe | 2016-12-02 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Tim Walz | W000799 | walz.house.gov | legacy | [Mankato, MN] – Rep. Walz released the following statement regarding the election of Dr. Phil Roe as Chairman of the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee: “I congratulate my friend and colleague Dr. Phil Roe on his election as Chairman of the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee. I have had the honor of serving jointly with him as co-chairs of the House Invisible Wounds Caucus. His passion and work on behalf of men and women who have served in uniform has been critically important. I believe veterans will be well served by his leadership. I look forward to working with him in the next Congress.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://walz.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/walz-stands-with-troops-in-supporting-fy2017-defense-authorization | Walz Stands with Troops in Supporting FY2017 Defense Authorization | 2016-12-02 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Tim Walz | W000799 | walz.house.gov | legacy | Mankato, MN [12/2/16] – Today, Congressman Tim Walz (D-MN) voted in support of the FY2017 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA): “I am proud to stand with our brave men and women in uniform today by supporting the NDAA Conference Report. Thank you to the House and Senate conferees for the hard work they put into getting this bill done for our military. While not perfect, the agreement we passed in the House this afternoon provides our Servicemembers with the tools they need to continue to defend our freedom from ever-evolving threats across the globe. I am pleased a number of the measures I championed that put our troops and their families first were included in the final version.” Below is a list of several Walz provisions included in the bill: Energy Independence Blocks a proposal to prohibit DoD from buying biofuels in a USDA program. Readiness: Includes the Walz /Gibson Posture Act which freezes the Army and Marine Corps drawdown to ensure Army readiness to keep America safe at home and abroad. Honors the service of military technicians and expresses that further cuts to those techs would have adverse impacts on readiness. Includes an authorization for transferring funds to other agencies to advance counterterrorism efforts across the globe. Military Personnel and Families Provides a 2.1% pay raise for our troops Requires representation from enlisted or retired enlisted members of the armed forces on all boards, panels, commissions, or task forces making recommendations related to military personnel policy Includes full funding for Special Operations Preservation of the Force and Family aimed at addressing the pressures put on our Special Operations Forces warriors and their families and how we can improve their lives. Adds $20 million for the STARBASE program, which supports military STEM education for at risk youth. Reforms the commissary system to preserve the benefit, while also making improvements to ensure continued savings for shoppers, a good value for taxpayers, and ongoing support … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=340A9D77-FBF7-4505-8CC3-C6EB64E4F480 | Klobuchar-Backed Bipartisan Legislation to Protect Consumers from Ticket Bots Passes Senate | 2016-12-02 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Amy Klobuchar | K000367 | www.klobuchar.senate.gov | legacy | Many fans had difficulty buying tickets online for the Prince tribute show held earlier this year in St. Paul; In October, Klobuchar joined with representatives from First Avenue and the Historic Theatre Group to push for passage of the bill Bill would prohibit the use of ticket bots and other online measures in order to deliberately circumvent security protocols that limit or restrict online ticket purchases WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar announced that bipartisan legislation she has backed to protect consumers from tickets bots has passed the Senate. Many fans had difficulty buying tickets online for the Prince tribute show that was held earlier this year in St. Paul. In October, Klobuchar joined with representatives from First Avenue and the Historic Theatre Group to push for passage of the bill. The Better Online Ticket Sales (BOTS) Act of 2016 would prohibit the use of ticket bots and other online measures in order to deliberately circumvent security protocols that limit or restrict online ticket purchases. The legislation would prohibit the sale of any ticket that is knowingly obtained by such unlawful methods. A violation of these prohibitions would be subject to civil penalties. “Ticket bots too often prevent fans from seeing the artists they love or the teams they cheer for. They also make it harder for artists to ensure their fans can attend live shows at a reasonable price,” Klobuchar said. “Passing this bipartisan legislation in the Senate moves us one step closer to limiting the ability of ticket buying bots to cut in line and drive up prices for real fans.” As a member of the Senate Commerce Committee and ranking member of the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Antitrust, Competition Policy, and Consumer Rights, Klobuchar has been a leader in the fight to protect consumers from unauthorized charges on their phone bills and deceptive practices by fraudulent online travel booking websites. At a Commerce Committee hearing in 2014, Klobuchar called on the Federal Communications Commi… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=A062E229-BBC6-40CD-9D10-046443618D25 | Klobuchar-Backed Bipartisan Legislation to Strengthen Criminal Justice System Passes Senate, Heads to President’s Desk for Signature | 2016-12-02 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Amy Klobuchar | K000367 | www.klobuchar.senate.gov | legacy | The Justice for All Reauthorization Act strengthens the rights of crime victims by providing the protection they need to restore their lives and enhances law enforcement’s ability to proactively stop violent criminals WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar announced that bipartisan legislation that she has backed to strengthen the criminal justice system passed the Senate this week and now heads to the President’s desk to be signed into law. The Justice for All Reauthorization Act strengthens the rights of crime victims by providing the protection they need to restore their lives and enhances law enforcement’s ability to proactively stop violent criminals. The bill also aims to reduce the rape kit backlog by supporting grant programs that fund forensic testing. “As a former prosecutor, I know firsthand how important the integrity of our criminal justice system is,” said Klobuchar. “With the President’s signature, this critical bipartisan bill will help restore the lives of crime victims, give law enforcement the tools to stop violent crimes, and provide resources to cut down on the rape kit backlog. I look forward to continuing working with both Democrats and Republicans to bring perpetrators to justice and get victims support."The legislation strengthens crime victims’ rights in the courtroom, increases access to restitution and restorative services, and reauthorizes important law enforcement investigative programs. The bill would help reduce the nationwide rape kit backlog and provide resources for forensic labs while protecting the innocent by improving access to post-conviction DNA testing. Klobuchar is a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, and prior to her time in the Senate, Klobuchar served as Hennepin County Attorney. She is a national leader in the fight to prevent domestic violence. Last year, the bipartisan Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act, which Klobuchar sponsored with Senator John Cornyn (R-TX), was signed into law. This legislation will help law enforcement further crack d… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://nolan.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/nolan-bill-to-reduce-faa-waste-save-taxpayers-money-heads-to-president-s | Nolan Bill to Reduce FAA Waste, Save Taxpayers Money Heads to Presidents Desk | 2016-12-01 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Rick Nolan | N000127 | nolan.house.gov | legacy | U.S. Rep. Rick Nolan’s legislation (H.R. 6014) to reduce unnecessary cost burdens on State and Local governments and their airports from the Federal Government when conducting airport improvement and expansion projects today passed in the U.S. Senate and is now heading to the President’s desk for final approval. Currently, State and Local governments are being forced to pay an inordinate amount of money to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to complete projects that could be done at a lower cost by the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT). During House consideration in September, Nolan pointed to local examples of this cost burden in Brainerd and Rochester, Minnesota where projects that could be completed at a lower cost by MnDOT were instead directed to the FAA at a significantly higher price. “This bill simply requires that projects be done in a cost-effective and common sense manner, complying with FAA safety requirements, promoting public safety and enhancing our overall aviation system,” Nolan said. Nolan’s legislation authorizes the FAA to enter into what are called “Reimbursable Agreements” with states to expand and improve local airports. It also requires that these agreements be made in a collaborative and cost-effective manner that saves money reduces unnecessary government bureaucracy whenever possible – while continuing to promote the safety, integrity, and efficiency of our national airspace. Click here to watch Nolan’s speech on the House floor. From the Brainerd Dispatch, 9/21/2016: Nolan legislation that aims to cut red tape for airports passes House | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://paulsen.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=22&itemid=1857 | Paulsen, Newhouse, DeFazio, Pingree Lead 104 Members to Support Hops Research | 2016-12-01 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Republican | House | MN | Erik Paulsen | P000594 | paulsen.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C.– Today, Congressman Erik Paulsen (MN-03), Congressman Dan Newhouse (WA-04), Congressman Peter DeFazio (OR-04), and Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (ME-01) led 100 other Members in a letter to the U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack and USDA Under Secretary for Research, Education and Economics, Dr. Cathie Woteki. The letter requests that USDA’s Agricultural Research Service (ARS) increase its commitment to hop-related research to reflect the growing cultural and economic importance of this crop. The Members wrote in the letter: “Overall, the brewing industry generated more than $250 billion in economic activity in 2014, directly and indirectly employing over 1.75 million Americans. This activity is only sustained through a healthy, stable hop market. Hop growers face a variety of challenges, including mites, mildews, blights, and other pests that harm production….The development of new hop varieties that are pest-resistant and climate-tolerant would help growers increase yields while reducing pesticide use. Additionally, while commercial hop production now exists in 29 states, developing new climate-tolerant varieties could help further expand commercial production, putting growers closer to their customers and reducing the threat that a disaster in the Pacific Northwest would affect U.S. and global supplies.” The Members continued: “USDA’s previous hop research has resulted in the development of varieties that are now universal to the industry. The two largest varieties of U.S.-produced hops, Cascade and Centennial, are products of public hop breeding programs. As consumers continue to demand beers with new aroma and flavor traits, research into developing these characteristics could result in significant benefit to growers, brewers, and the customers they serve. “Given these great advantages that would come with additional research, we request that USDA-ARS increase the commitment to hops genetics/molecular biology from 0.7 full time employees (FTE) to 1.0 FTE… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=A03942F3-0CAD-43CC-9D2B-D0C109CDACC7 | Klobuchar Ranks First on List of all 100 Senators with Bills Signed Into Law in Current Congress | 2016-12-01 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Amy Klobuchar | K000367 | www.klobuchar.senate.gov | legacy | According to a Medill News Service analysis of legislative data from the independent congressional tracking website GovTrack, Klobuchar has sponsored or co-sponsored 27 bills that have been enacted into law WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar ranks first on a list of all 100 senators with the most bills that have been enacted into law during the current Congress. According to a Medill News Service analysis of legislative data from the independent congressional tracking website GovTrack, Klobuchar has sponsored or co-sponsored 27 bills that have been enacted into law. “I’ve always approached this work by putting the people of Minnesota first,” Klobuchar said. “For me, that means working across the aisle to get things done. While it hasn’t been the easiest year to bring people together —?OK, that’s an understatement —?I have gotten to know the people I work with and always look for common ground when I can find it.” Examples of bills that Klobuchar has led that have been enacted into law include the following: S. 524, Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act S. 178, the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act of 2015 S. 894, Innovate America Act S. 218, Veterans to Paramedics Act The full text of the article is available below. Which Senators Have Passed the Most Laws? By Benjamin Din For Medill on the Hill WASHINGTON — With a little over a month to go for the current Congress, what the lawmakers accomplished in the last two years can be measured in different ways. One yardstick: Who backed the most bills that have become law? The top honor goes to Sen. Amy Klobuchar, according to an analysis of legislative data from GovTrack, an independent congressional tracking website. The second-term Minnesota Democrat has sponsored or co-sponsored 27 bills that have been enacted into law. By comparison, seven senators have seen 12 bills they put their names on —?the median number —?become law, including Democrats Elizabeth Warren and Cory Booker and Republican Lindsey Graham.… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=A2919141-E6C2-4D77-A0CA-F1A2C37A240B | Klobuchar-Sponsored Bipartisan Bill to Encourage Public-Private Partnerships to Improve National Security and Trade Across Northern Border Passes Senate | 2016-12-01 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | MN | Amy Klobuchar | K000367 | www.klobuchar.senate.gov | legacy | The Cross-Border Trade Enhancement Act of 2015, which Klobuchar introduced with Republican Senator John Cornyn, passed the Senate today; the legislation would encourage public-private partnerships to strengthen border security and make infrastructure improvements at U.S. ports of entry WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Senator Amy Klobuchar announced that bipartisan legislation she has sponsored to encourage public-private partnerships to improve border security and trade across the U.S.-Canada border has passed the Senate. The Cross-Border Trade Enhancement Act of 2015, which Klobuchar introduced with Senator John Cornyn (R-TX), passed the Senate today. The legislation would encourage public-private partnerships to strengthen border security and make infrastructure improvements at U.S. ports of entry. “As co-chair of the Canada-United States InterParliamentary Group, I’ve been working with the Department of Homeland Security and Canadian officials to improve national security and efficiency at our northern border for years,” said Klobuchar. “This bill will allow the Department of Homeland Security to improve infrastructure and hire more border security agents at land ports of entry like the one in International Falls. This bill will help make sure that we are doing everything we can to strengthen economic ties by improving safety and efficiency at the northern border.” The legislation would expand the authority of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the General Services Administration (GSA) to enter into innovative partnerships with local governments and private sector entities. Partnerships with local governments and the private sector will support improvements to port of entry facilities and infrastructure and enhance processing and staffing at our border crossings.Representative Henry Cuellar (D-TX) has introduced the House companion version of this legislation. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://franken.senate.gov/?p=press_release&id=3580 | Following Effort from Klobuchar, Franken, Walz, and Ellison, Administration to Issue Individual Disaster Assistance for Minnesota Communities Impacted by Devastating Flooding | 2016-11-30 | 2016 | 2016-11 | Democrat | House | MN | Al Franken | F000457 | franken.senate.gov | legacy | In a letter to FEMA Administrator Fugate earlier this month, the federal lawmakers urged strong support for Governor Dayton's recent appeal to reverse the decision to deny much-needed Individual Household Assistance to an additional seven counties in Minnesota Following an effort from U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar and Al Franken, and Representatives Tim Walz and Keith Ellison, the Administration announced it will issue Individual Disaster Assistance for Minnesota communities impacted by devastating flooding in September. In a letter to FEMA Administrator Fugate earlier this month, the federal lawmakers urged strong support for Governor Dayton's recent appeal to reverse the decision to deny much-needed Individual Household Assistance to an additional seven counties in Minnesota."I saw the devastation firsthand, and I know this federal individual disaster relief assistance is vital for the Minnesotans impacted by the recent storms and flooding," said Klobuchar."This is important news for Minnesotans who were devastated by floods in September," said Franken. "I'm glad that FEMA heeded our call and will provide essential assistance to help these Minnesota communities recover and rebuild.""FEMA's announcement is welcome relief to southern Minnesotans impacted by devastating flooding this years," said Walz. "I appreciate their willingness to revisit their decision and reverse course to ensure folks get the assistance they need.""I applaud FEMA for responding to our calls by reversing their previous decision, and approving this vital funding," said Ellison. "Many Minnesotans have been in desperate need of this assistance - I'm glad they're going to get it."The full text of the letter from earlier this month is below:Dear Administrator Fugate:Thank you for your support and approval of Governor Dayton's request for a Presidential Disaster Declaration for Public Assistance in nine counties in central and southern Minnesota as a result of torrential rains and flash flooding on September 21 and 22, 2016. Beyond the damage to … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://franken.senate.gov/?p=press_release&id=3582 | Sen. Franken: Bipartisan Bill Passed by Senate Aims to Increase Access to Health Care in Rural Communities | 2016-11-30 | 2016 | 2016-11 | Democrat | House | MN | Al Franken | F000457 | franken.senate.gov | legacy | Sen. Franken Says Rural MN Communities Often Lack Specialty Care Doctors for Mental Illness, Addiction, Diabetes, Pregnancy; Telemedicine Technology Can Help Fill Those Gaps Sen. Al Franken helped champion a Senate-passed bill that could expand how telemedicine technology is used in rural communities—including in Minnesota—where patients often lack adequate access to the specialty care doctors they need. More than a decade ago, experts created Project ECHO, which links primary care clinics with health specialists via video conference in order to better manage patient care. Since then, the project has been used by 40 states to manage nearly 50 diseases, including mental illness, HIV, addiction, diabetes, chronic pain, and complications in pregnancy. And in fact, the White Earth Nation in Minnesota uses the program to help treat hepatitis C.The Enhancing Capacity for Health Outcomes Act, which was cosponsored by Sen. Franken and passed Tuesday in the Senate, aims to better integrate the Project ECHO model into health systems across the country."For millions of rural Americans, getting access to high-quality, specialized health care for mental illness, addiction, pregnancy complications, and dozens of other health care conditions can be a real struggle," said Sen. Franken. "As co-chair of the bipartisan Rural Health Caucus, one of my top priorities is to better equip our rural health providers with the tools they need to deliver the right kind of care to people in their communities. I fought for this bipartisan bill because it seeks to connect local doctors with specialty care doctors to better address patients' medical needs."As Co-Chair of the Senate Rural Health Caucus and a member of the Senate Health Committee, Sen. Franken has long championed solutions for the unique health care challenges facing rural communities-including the expansion of telemedicine. Last year, Sen. Franken and his staff convened nearly 30 rural health meetings with over 300 providers, community members, and experts across Minnesota in a… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://paulsen.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=22&itemid=1856 | Paulsen Praises Passage of the Groundbreaking 21st Century Cures Act | 2016-11-30 | 2016 | 2016-11 | Republican | House | MN | Erik Paulsen | P000594 | paulsen.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. – Congressman Erik Paulsen (MN-03) voted for, and the U.S. House of Representatives passed, the bipartisan 21st Century Cures Act to accelerate the discovery, development, and delivery of new cures and treatments. The bill brings our health care infrastructure and processes into the 21st century and further ensures our health care system meets the needs of patients and their loved ones, including investing in the Cancer Moonshot initiative led by Vice President Biden, as well as the BRAIN initiative to better our understanding of and improve treatment for diseases such as Alzheimer’s. “This groundbreaking bipartisan initiative gives patients with deadly and critical diseases new hope,” said Congressman Paulsen. “The 21st Century Cures Act presents a generational opportunity to transform and modernize the way we treat diseases by further advancing the U.S. as a leader in medical innovation and research.” The 21st Century Cures Act ensures that the U.S. remains a leader in medical treatment and innovation through several important and commonsense reforms, including providing more funding for medical research, modernizing the FDA, and streamlining the medical device review process. The bill also reforms our mental health system by building off of the Helping Families in Mental Health Crisis Act, which passed with near-unanimous support in the House earlier this year. This legislation also combats the national opioid abuse epidemic by providing effective education and treatment options. The 21st Century Cures Act is the product of a two-year effort to identify ways to invest in research and make the approval process for drugs and medical technologies more efficient and effective. There are currently over 10,000 known disease – 7,000 of them rare – with only about 500 of them having FDA-approved treatments. Congressman Paulsen, a champion of small business and advocate of free enterprise, entrepreneurship, a… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-announces-carver-county-town-hall | Emmer Announces Carver County Town Hall | 2016-11-29 | 2016 | 2016-11 | Republican | House | MN | Tom Emmer | E000294 | emmer.house.gov | legacy | Otsego, MN – Today, Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) announced he will be holding his tenth town hall of the year in Carver County next month. When first taking office, Emmer promised to remain accessible and accountable to all Minnesotans in his district. He has more than fulfilled his promise which is proven by the fact that this upcoming town hall will be his 24th town hall in his first term. “I place a high importance on these town halls because the most crucial part of my job is to listen to the people for whom I work,” said Emmer. “These town halls are a great way for the people of Minnesota’s Sixth District to ask questions, give their input and address any concerns they may have, and I am looking forward to having those conversations." Date: December 19, 2016 Time: 9:00 AM Location: Watertown City Hall 309 Lewis Avenue S. Watertown, MN 55388 | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://mccollum.house.gov/press-release/mccollum-statement-nomination-rep-tom-price-hhs-secretary | McCollum Statement on Nomination of Chairman Tom Price for HHS Secretary | 2016-11-29 | 2016 | 2016-11 | Democrat | House | MN | Betty McCollum | M001143 | mccollum.house.gov | legacy | Congresswoman Betty McCollum (DFL-Minn.) released the following statement on President-elect Donald Trump’s nomination of House Budget Committee Chairman Tom Price (R-Ga.) to be Secretary of Health and Human Services: “The nomination of Republican Chairman Tom Price to be Secretary of Health and Human Services is clear proof that the guarantee of Medicare for seniors will be a top target for the Trump administration. “Chairman Price has repeatedly supported budgets that would turn Medicare into a voucher program, raising costs for seniors and potentially leaving some uninsured. On the campaign trail, President-elect Trump claimed to oppose these proposals, but the Price appointment shows he is now embracing the Republican Party’s radical Medicare privatization agenda. “In addition to his work to dismantle the promises we have made to seniors with Medicare, Chairman Price has sought to undermine the Affordable Care Act and slash funding for Medicaid. He has also attacked women’s health care, including misguided and dangerous attempts to defund Planned Parenthood and limit millions of women’s access to preventive health care. “In the coming months, I will strongly oppose the Trump-Republican health care proposals in Congress. At the same time, seniors — and all Americans who care about quality, affordable health care — will need to rally together and fight to protect Medicare and all of our vital health care programs.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-statement-death-fidel-castro | Emmer Statement on Death of Fidel Castro | 2016-11-26 | 2016 | 2016-11 | Republican | House | MN | Tom Emmer | E000294 | emmer.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) released the below statement following the death of Fidel Castro:“The passing of Fidel Castro is yet another reminder that a new day is dawning in Cuba. As the remaining vestiges of the Cold War continue to fade, the United States has a chance to help usher in a new Cuba; a Cuba where every citizen has the rights, freedom and opportunity they deserve. Instead of continuing down a path of isolation and exclusion, now is the time for Congress and the new administration to work with the Cuban people and assist in the transition to a democracy and market economy that will improve the lives of the 11 million Cubans living just 90 miles off our coast.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://paulsen.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=22&itemid=1855 | Paulsen Statement on the Death of Fidel Castro | 2016-11-26 | 2016 | 2016-11 | Republican | House | MN | Erik Paulsen | P000594 | paulsen.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C.– Congressman Erik Paulsen (MN-03) released the following statement after the death of Fidel Castro: “The death of Fidel Castro, a brutal dictator for half a century who oppressed so many Cuban people through human rights violations, brings the opportunity for a new era with Cuba,” said Congressman Paulsen. “Hopefully, this opens the door to accelerate additional engagement and stronger economic ties between the United States and Cuba.” Congressman Paulsen, a champion of small business and advocate of free enterprise, entrepreneurship, and innovation, serves on the House Ways and Means Committee, the bicameral Joint Economic Committee, and is co-chair of the Congressional Medical Technology Caucus. For more information on Congressman Paulsen’s work in Congress visit paulsen.house.gov. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-applauds-injunction-obamas-overtime-rule | Emmer Applauds Injunction on Obama's Overtime Rule | 2016-11-23 | 2016 | 2016-11 | Republican | House | MN | Tom Emmer | E000294 | emmer.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. – Congressman Emmer (MN-06) released the following statement regarding the U.S. District Court in the Eastern District of Texas’s preliminary injunction of the Obama Administration’s overtime rule.“Yesterday, a federal judge dealt yet another blow to the Obama Administration’s overreaching regulatory efforts. For the fourth time in less than two years, an executive action from President Obama has been halted by the courts, granting relief to business owners across the country. This injunction is a huge win for the hardworking men and women who face the very real threat of reduced workplace flexibility and fewer hours if implemented. I applaud this decision and look forward to rolling back more of the current Administration’s unilateral regulations under President Trump.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=07FAC7A2-005E-40BF-9B66-1B26174A2BA4 | Following Klobuchar Efforts and Work of Other Ag State Representatives, EPA Announces Strong Renewable Fuel Standard for 2017 and Biomass Diesel Volume for 2018 | 2016-11-23 | 2016 | 2016-11 | Democrat | House | MN | Amy Klobuchar | K000367 | www.klobuchar.senate.gov | legacy | Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) finalized increases in renewable fuel volume requirements across all categories of biofuels under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) program Klobuchar has been a national leader in advocating for the expansion of renewable fuels; Earlier this year, Klobuchar led bipartisan efforts urging the EPA to release a strong RFS that will support U.S. jobs and the economy, reduce the environmental impact of our transportation and energy sectors, and decrease dependence on foreign oil WASHINGTON, DC – Following efforts from U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar and other agriculture state representatives, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a strong Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) for 2017 and biomass diesel volume for 2018. Today, the EPA finalized increases in renewable fuel volume requirements across all categories of biofuels under the RFS program. “During a tough time in farming, we couldn't have better Thanksgiving news for our corn and soybean farmers and the thousands of people who work in biofuels in Minnesota,” Klobuchar said. “Renewable fuels have become a homegrown economic generator for our country. This strong rule is a step forward in decreasing our dependence on foreign oil and increasing our investments in clean energy. It creates much-needed consistency moving forward.” In the rule, the renewable volume obligation for “conventional” renewable fuel - like corn ethanol - has been increased to 15 billion gallons, which meets congressional intent. The required volume of biomass-based diesel for 2017 has been increased by 100 million gallons to 2.1 billion gallons, twice as high as the minimum congressional target. The advanced biofuel standard – which is comprised of biomass-based diesel, cellulosic biofuel, and other biofuel that achieves at least 50 percent lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions reductions – increases by 19 percent over the 2016 standard. Klobuchar has been a national leader in advocating for the expansion of renewable fuels. … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://franken.senate.gov/?p=press_release&id=3574 | Sen. Franken Fights to End Questionable Chinese Trade Restrictions on U.S. Pork and Poultry Products | 2016-11-22 | 2016 | 2016-11 | Democrat | House | MN | Al Franken | F000457 | franken.senate.gov | legacy | With U.S.-Chinese trade and commerce talks underway right now in Washington, Sen. Al Franken is publicly calling for an end to questionable trade restrictions by China on certain U.S. pork and poultry products.Although China claims that it's limiting U.S. produced pork and poultry due to health standards, it appears that their underlying goal is to block U.S. exports, which hurts the bottom lines of Minnesota ag producers and keeps them from accessing key markets.In a letter sent today, Sen. Franken pressed U.S. trade officials to closely engage their Chinese counterparts at the 2016 Joint Commission on Commerce and Trade on ending this trade policy, and he said that lifting restrictions would be good for both U.S. producers and Chinese consumers."While I believe that sanitary and phytosanitary standards are critical to protecting a nation's food supply, it appears some of China's current restrictions on poultry and pork have a questionable scientific basis and seem to be targeted toward blocking U.S. exports rather than ensuring food safety," wrote Sen. Franken in his letter to Trade Representative Michael Froman and Commerce Secretary Penny Pritzker. "This issue is particularly important to U.S. producers of certain offal and other poultry and pork products that are of limited value in the U.S. market. In some cases, these products may be highly valued by Chinese consumers. Allowing exports of these products would be favorable for both U.S. producers, who currently earn little from these products, and for Chinese consumers, who could get a product they value - potentially at lower prices."Earlier this year, Sen. Franken held a roundtable discussion at the Minnesota Farmers Union in St. Paul, where he heard strong concerns from local ag producers about China's pork and poultry trade policy.You can read the full text of today's letter by clicking here or reading below. November 22, 2016 The Honorable Michael Froman U.S. Trade Representative 600 17th Street NW Washington, DC 20508 The Honorable Penny Pritzke… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://nolan.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/in-effort-to-protect-special-education-nolan-joins-bicameral-amicus | In Effort to Protect Special Education, Nolan Joins Bicameral Amicus Brief | 2016-11-22 | 2016 | 2016-11 | Democrat | House | MN | Rick Nolan | N000127 | nolan.house.gov | legacy | U.S. Rep. Rick Nolan today joined a bicameral amicus brief in Endrew F. v. Douglas County School District. “While many school districts, especially in Minnesota, continue to far exceed the federal requirements of the law, I am proud to stand up for individuals with disabilities across the country to prevent anyone with a disability from being denied an equal and quality education,” Nolan said. “We must enable ALL Americans to live up to their full potential.”The amicus brief shows it to be the intent of the original Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and subsequent reauthorizations that students with disabilities deserve the same meaningful, quality education provided to the rest of the student body – not just the bare minimum.Endrew F. v. Douglas County School District is currently being deliberated before the United States Supreme Court. Endrew, a fifth grade student with autism, and his family brought the case forward after Endrew allegedly received inadequate special education services at his public school, where he was struggling, and had to be placed in a private school, where he quickly thrived. The full text of the amicus brief is available HERE. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://mccollum.house.gov/press-release/mccollum-statement-2016-native-american-heritage-month | McCollum Statement on 2016 National Native American Heritage Month | 2016-11-22 | 2016 | 2016-11 | Democrat | House | MN | Betty McCollum | M001143 | mccollum.house.gov | legacy | Congresswoman Betty McCollum (DFL-Minn.) released the following statement in commemoration of National Native American Heritage Month, which is proclaimed each November: "Each November, we celebrate the contributions of First Americans with National Native American Heritage Month. The people of the 567 diverse, federally recognized tribal nations – including the 11 Ojibwe and Dakota nations in Minnesota – play a complex and vital role in our nation’s history, and make our communities and our country stronger today. "Despite centuries of violent discrimination and abusive policies, our country’s Native American cultures and nations have endured. Tribal governments and Native communities have made monumental progress. Our federal trust relationship with tribal nations has grown stronger in the current era of self-governance among Native American tribes—a proud accomplishment that will continue to require the federal government’s full and respectful engagement. "As a co-chair of the Congressional Native American Caucus and the Ranking Member of the Interior-Environment Appropriations Subcommittee, I have had the honor to meet with hundreds of tribal leaders to discuss the needs of Indian Country. Working together, we have succeeded in making substantial progress on education, health, and criminal justice issues through measures like the Indian Health Care Improvement Act, increased funding for the Bureau of Indian Education, and special tribal jurisdiction in domestic violence cases. "Despite these concrete steps, we have much more work to do to address disparities, invest in Indian Country, and create more opportunities for all Native Americans – especially Native youth. As we honor the achievements and resilience of our First Americans, I pledge to continue working to ensure that our Native American brothers and sisters have every opportunity to succeed." | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://franken.senate.gov/?p=press_release&id=3573 | Sen. Franken Urges Dept. of Justice to Protect Safety, First Amendment Rights of Dakota Access Pipeline Protestors | 2016-11-21 | 2016 | 2016-11 | Democrat | House | MN | Al Franken | F000457 | franken.senate.gov | legacy | Franken Calls Alleged use of Water Cannons for Crowd Control in Sub-Freezing Temperatures Excessive, Unnecessary, and Extremely Dangerous; Urges Attorney General to Investigate & Take Action Sen. Al Franken urged the Department of Justice to take action to protect the safety and First Amendment rights of Dakota Access Pipeline protestors following reports that law enforcement used water cannons for crowd control in sub-freezing temperatures.In a letter sent today to the Department of Justice (DOJ), Sen. Franken said that he is extremely concerned after hearing reports of dangerous clashes between police and individuals protesting the Dakota Access Pipeline project near Cannon Ball, ND, and said the use of water cannons for crowd control in sub-freezing temperatures is excessive, unnecessary, and extremely dangerous."The reported use of water cannons for crowd control in sub-freezing temperatures is excessive and unnecessary, and I urge you to take action to protect the First Amendment rights of protestors, and the physical safety of all involved parties," wrote Sen. Franken in his letter to Attorney General Loretta Lynch. "Native American populations have struggled for decades under the complex burden of historical trauma, and I have witnessed and admired how these communities have turned to their cultural foundations to build strength against that burden. These tactics against protestors exercising their Constitutional rights threaten to add another layer of trauma to these communities. I urge you to do everything in your power to prevent further escalation of violence."You can read the full text of today's letter by clicking here or reading below.November 21, 2016The Honorable Loretta Lynch Attorney General United States Department of Justice 950 Pennsylvania Avenue NW Washington, DC 20530Dear Attorney General Lynch,I am extremely concerned after hearing reports of dangerous clashes between police and protestors of the Dakota Access Pipeline project near Cannon Ball, ND. The reported use of water cannon… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://collinpeterson.house.gov/press-release/following-efforts-klobuchar-franken-peterson-nolan-department-energy-approves-great | Following Efforts from Klobuchar, Franken, Peterson, Nolan, Department of Energy Approves Great Northern Transmission Line | 2016-11-18 | 2016 | 2016-11 | Democrat | House | MN | Collin Peterson | P000258 | collinpeterson.house.gov | legacy | The Great Northern Transmission Line will help provide Minnesota electric customers access to reasonably priced, clean, renewable energy Last year, Klobuchar, Franken, Peterson, and Nolan urged support for the project in a letter to Secretary Moniz and in September, the lawmakers sent another letter to Moniz urging a timely review of the project WASHINGTON, DC – Following efforts from U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar and Al Franken, along with Representatives Collin Peterson Rick Nolan, today the U.S. Department of Energy gave federal approval to Minnesota Power’s Great Northern Transmission Line, a 220-mile electric transmission line that will cross the U.S.-Canada border between Minnesota and Manitoba and help provide Minnesota electric customers access to reasonably priced, clean, renewable energy. Last year, Klobuchar, Franken, Peterson, and Nolan urged support for the project in a letter to Secretary Moniz. In September, the lawmakers sent another letter to Moniz urging a timely review of the project. “The federal approval of the Great Northern Transmission Line is good news for our economy and our environment,” said Klobuchar. “Now that this important project can move forward, more Minnesota households and businesses will have access to clean and renewable power.” “The Great Northern Transmission line with help bring more affordable and reliable renewable energy to northern Minnesota families and businesses,” said Franken. “I’m pleased that the federal government has approved this important project to move forward in our state.” “This is an important step to providing more Minnesotans with reliable, affordable, renewable energy,” Peterson said. “The Great Northern Transmission Line has broad support from state, local and tribal governments and I am pleased that today’s approval will allow Minnesota Power to move ahead with planned construction.” “This is an important project for securing the availability of affordable, renewable electricity in northeastern Minnesota – especially for residential consumers… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://collinpeterson.house.gov/rep-petersons-newsletter-11182016 | Rep. Peterson's Newsletter 11/18/2016 | 2016-11-18 | 2016 | 2016-11 | Democrat | House | MN | Collin Peterson | P000258 | collinpeterson.house.gov | legacy | Lake Ripley in Meeker County Dear Friends, I was pleased to welcome groups from all over Minnesota to Washington this week, including 11th and 12th graders from Fertile-Beltrami High School. I also welcomed the National Cotton Council, American Crystal Sugar, Red River Valley Sugarbeet Growers Association and Potlatch to discuss issues important to farmers and producers across the country. This week also brought the conclusion to the Agriculture Committee’s review of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), where we heard about the success of the program and the importance of it remaining part of the Farm Bill. Additionally, I’m happy to announce that the Department of Energy has issued a presidential permit for the Great Northern Transmission Line project in northern Minnesota, bringing new jobs and new energy to our district. As we prepare for our first winter storm of the year, I hope you utilize the information below to help stay safe. Sincerely, Congressman Collin C. Peterson Minnesota 7th District Close Up This week, I welcomed students from Fertile-Beltrami High School to the Capitol. We discussed happenings in Congress, politics and even a little hunting. The students came to Washington for the week to tour the nation’s capital, meet with elected officials and travel to Williamsburg, Va. I always enjoy the opportunity to meet students from Minnesota and am thrilled to see their passion on full display. Portrait Unveiling of Chairman Kline I was happy to attend the portrait unveiling of Minnesota’s Second District Congressman John Kline this week. Kline is retiring at the end of this Congress after serving his district since 2003. He has been Chairman of the Committee on Education and the Workforce since 2011. John spent a long portion of his career in the U.S. Marine Corps and worked as a military aide in both the Carter and Reagan administrations. The House of Representatives and the people of Minnesota have been fortunate to have such a strong leader working for them over the years.… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z |
Advanced export
JSON shape: default, array, newline-delimited, object
CREATE TABLE [releases] (
[url] TEXT PRIMARY KEY,
[title] TEXT,
[date] TEXT,
[year] TEXT,
[month] TEXT,
[party] TEXT,
[chamber] TEXT,
[state] TEXT,
[member_name] TEXT,
[bioguide_id] TEXT,
[domain] TEXT,
[scraper] TEXT,
[source] TEXT,
[date_source] TEXT,
[text] TEXT,
[has_text] INTEGER,
[collected_at] TEXT,
[updated_at] TEXT
);
CREATE INDEX [idx_releases_date]
ON [releases] ([date]);
CREATE INDEX [idx_releases_year]
ON [releases] ([year]);
CREATE INDEX [idx_releases_party]
ON [releases] ([party]);
CREATE INDEX [idx_releases_chamber]
ON [releases] ([chamber]);
CREATE INDEX [idx_releases_state]
ON [releases] ([state]);
CREATE INDEX [idx_releases_bioguide_id]
ON [releases] ([bioguide_id]);
CREATE INDEX [idx_releases_has_text]
ON [releases] ([has_text]);