press: releases: 1,368 rows where state = "MN" and year = 2017 sorted by date descending

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1,368 rows where state = "MN" and year = 2017 sorted by date descending

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url	title	date ▲	year	month	party	chamber	state	member_name	bioguide_id	domain	date_source	text	has_text	collected_at	updated_at
https://nolan.house.gov/the-monday-report/scrooged	Scrooged!	2017-12-26	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Rick Nolan	N000127	nolan.house.gov	legacy	Scrooged! Republicans Pass Their $1.8 Trillion Tax Giveaway for the Rich - at the Expense of the Middle Class This cartoon by David Fitzsimmons of the Arizona Star perfectly captures what the Republican tax bill is really all about -- giving huge tax cuts to the wealthy at the expense of the middle class. Dear Friend, The simple truth is,the rich are getting richer, the poor are getting poorer, and the middle class is getting crushed.Andthis disastrous Republican tax bill makes the situation even worse. First off, this bill hands trillions of dollars in tax cuts to the wealthiest 1% of Americans, and super rich corporations. The Republican tax billgives 83% of its tax cuts to the richest 1% of Americans,and permanentlycuts the corporate tax rate from 35% to 21%.And it doubles the estate tax exemption,making the richest 1% even richer. Republican leaders believe that giving the rich extra money will somehow miraculously create more jobs and raise wages. But heres the simple fact Giving the rich more money will not create a trickle-down effect it never has. American corporations are alreadyhoarding $2.5 trillion in overseas bank accounts,and $2 trillion more here at home. There is no evidence that tax cuts create jobsor cause wealthy CEOs to increase their employees wages. In fact, the opposite is true:Middle class wages have stagnated for a quarter century, while the rich have hoarded trillions and trillions for themselves. Second, the simple fact is that this tax bill raises taxes on 83 million middle class households. Millions of middle class families will see their taxes go up, according to an independent analysis by the Tax Policy Center. At best,some middle class Americans get enough to buy a hubcapon a Mercedes Benz whilethe millionaires and billionaires get enough to buy a whole Mercedes if not a fleet of Mercedes! And if thats not bad enough,the small middle class tax benefits are only temporary set to expire while the tax cuts for the rich are massive and permanent. Finally, this Republican bill by i…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=74192437-7AA4-4A0D-84E0-07C91F2852D6	Klobuchar, Grassley Seek Answers on Food and Drug Administration Policies for Personal Importation of Prescription Drugs from Canada	2017-12-26	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Amy Klobuchar	K000367	www.klobuchar.senate.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, DC U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Chuck Grassley (R-IA) have sent a letter to Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Commissioner Scott Gottlieb seeking answers regarding FDA policies on personal importation of prescription drugs. A recent Kaiser Health News article reported that FDA sent criminal investigation agents to nine Florida stores that help patients buy prescription drugs from pharmacies in Canada. We have heard from thousands of our constituents about skyrocketing prescription drug prices and have proposed several bills to address this urgent problemincluding by allowing for the safe importation of prescription drugs. Although the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act prohibits the importation of unapproved drugs, the FDA has long focused its enforcement efforts on products apparently intended for the commercial market and on fraudulent products, and those that pose an unreasonable health risk, the senators wrote. We are concerned that the Food and Drug Administration may be taking actions to scale back the agencys non-enforcement policy that currently allows for limited importation of prescription drugs. The letter also calls on Commissioner Gottlieb to endorse Klobuchar and Senator John McCains (R-AZ) Safe and Affordable Drugs from Canada Act, which would amend the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to allow for the personal importation of prescription drugs from approved pharmacies in Canada for personal use with a valid prescription. The letter is the latest in a continuing effort by Klobuchar and Grassley to find solutions to the ever-increasing costs of prescription medications. Earlier this year, Klobuchar and Grassley introduced the Preserve Access to Affordable Generics Act to expand consumers access to the cost-saving generic drugs they need and increase competition by ending pay for delay dealsthe practice of brand-name drug companies using anti-competitive pay-off agreements to keep more affordable generic equivalents off the market. Klobuchar, Grassley, and a bipartis…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://collinpeterson.house.gov/rep-petersons-newsletter-12222017	Rep. Peterson's Newsletter 12/22/2017	2017-12-22	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Collin Peterson	P000258	collinpeterson.house.gov	legacy	Sand Lake Dear Friends, The House and Senate passed a major tax bill this week, adding at least $1.5 trillion to the deficit.As a founding member of the Congressional Blue Dog Coalition, I have pushed for fiscally responsible policies throughout my entire career and have concerns about the impact this debt will have on future generations. The bill was a missed opportunity for a bipartisan effort to focus on promoting real economic growth and policies that help middle class families. This Christmas, I hope we are all able to take the spirit of the holiday season into a more cooperative and productive New Year. Sincerely, Congressman Collin C. Peterson Minnesota 7th District Happy Holidays Please click the above imageto see my holiday greeting. I wish all of you a merry Christmas and a happy New Year! Pheasant Hunting On Saturday, I was happy to get out for a pheasant hunt before heading back to Washington. I joined my friend Chuck Ellingson at Watson Hunting Camp in Chippewa County where we spent a few hours on 165 acres of western Minnesota prairie. I hope everyone gets a chance to enjoy the outdoors before the season ends. Tax Reform discussion on KFGO I was a guest on KFGO News and Views with Joel Heitkamp on Tuesday morning to talk about the GOP tax reform and its impact on Minnesota and the U.S. I expressed my concerns with the tax bill and the strict partisan process it went through. While many people will see modest temporary tax cuts, others will see increases if they pay high state and local taxes or have families with many children. This was a missed opportunity to work on a bipartisan basis to promote economic growth and simplify the tax code. I was not able to support a bill that makes the tax system more complicated for the middle class and small businesses while adding up to $2 trillion to the nations debt. Listen to our discussion here. University of Minnesota Crookston Horticulture Club The University of Minnesota, Crookstons Horticultural students had to get an early October start on poin…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-statement-department-interior-decision-allow-minnesota-advance	Emmer Statement on Department of Interior Decision to Allow Minnesota to Advance Responsible Mineral Exploration	2017-12-22	2017	2017-12	Republican	House	MN	Tom Emmer	E000294	emmer.house.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C. Following the U.S. Department of Interiors decision today reversing the Obama Administrations improper denial of two mineral leases in Minnesota, Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) released the following statement: Minnesotans send our gratitude to the Department of the Interior for their action to reverse course set by the Obama Administration and allow our great state to regain control of our mineral leases to advance responsible mining. This action today, coupled with the passage of the MINER Act last month, demonstrate a commitment to unwind the politically motivated actions by the previous Administration and put Minnesota and the nation on a path to prosperity for local economies and communities for generations to come. CLICK HERE to learn more about Congressman Emmer's MINER Act. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/new-doi-legal-opinion-confirms-lawless-minnesota-land-grab-rejects	New DOI Legal Opinion Confirms Lawless Minnesota Land Grab, Rejects Arbitrary Anti-Mining Actions by Obama	2017-12-22	2017	2017-12	Republican	House	MN	Tom Emmer	E000294	emmer.house.gov	legacy	(Courtesy of the Congressional Western Caucus) WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, Congressional Western Caucus Chairman Paul A. Gosar D.D.S. (AZ-04) and Western Caucus Member Tom Emmer (MN-06) released the following statements after the United States Department of the Interiors Office of the Solicitor issued a new legal opinion concluding that Twin Metals Minnesota has a non-discretionary right to a third renewal of its two federal mineral leases held in Northeast Minnesota for more than 50 years and determined that the BLM does not have discretion to deny the companys renewal application: Congressman Emmer said, Minnesotans send our gratitude to the Department of the Interior for their action to reverse course set by the Obama Administration and allow our great state to regain control of our mineral leases to advance responsible mining. This action today, coupled with the passage of the MINER Act last month, demonstrate a commitment to unwind the politically motivated actions by the previous Administration and put Minnesota and the nation on a path to prosperity for local economies and communities for generations to come. Western Caucus and House Committee on Natural Resources Subcommittee on Energy and Minerals Chairman Paul Gosar said, Todays legal opinion confirms that President Obama and his agency minions had no legal authority to cancel two mineral leases in order to appease anti-mining extremists. I thank Secretary Zinke, Deputy Secretary Bernhardt and their team as well as President Trump and his staff at the White House for hearing the concerns of the people of Minnesota and working diligently to overturn the Obama Administrations lawless land grab. Background: Courtesy of the Department of the Interior: Today, the United States Department of the Interiors Office of the Solicitor issued a new legal opinion concluding that Twin Metals Minnesota has a non-discretionary right to a third renewal of its two hardrock mining leases, located in the Superior National Forest in northern Minnesota. The new M-Opinion (Memo…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-emmer-handel-jayapal-kuster-wasserman-schultz-walz-introduce-abby	Reps. Emmer, Handel, Jayapal, Kuster, Wasserman Schultz, Walz Introduce the Abby Honold Act	2017-12-22	2017	2017-12	Republican	House	MN	Tom Emmer	E000294	emmer.house.gov	legacy	Abbys Act will help law enforcement prosecute sexual assault, improve care and treatment for victims Bill was inspired by Abby Honold, a former University of Minnesota student and rape survivor, Officer Kevin Randolph, who helped Abby win her case against her perpetrator, andLinda Walther, the sexual assault nurse who examined Abby minutes after her attack WASHINGTON, D.C. Yesterday Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) teamed up with Reps. Karen Handel (GA-06), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Ann McLane Kuster (NH-02), Debbie Wasserman Shultz (FL-23) and Tim Walz (MN-01) to introduce the Abby Honold Act in an effort to help law enforcement prosecute sexual assault while improving care and treatment for victims. Specifically, the bill will use existing funds to train law enforcement in evidence-based, trauma-informed interview techniques to prevent re-traumatization of the victim, improve communication between victims and law enforcement, and ensure accurate and complete information is collected and submitted to law enforcement. Minnesota Senator Amy Klobuchar introduced companion legislation in the Senate. Sexual assault is a crime and it is vital for law enforcement to have accurate and complete information to prosecute it as such, said Rep. Emmer. For Abby, and for the thousands of victims who experience trauma, this is a key part of their recovery process, as is a compassionate response in the immediate aftermath. We are taking an important step forward to provide better treatment to sexual assault victims in crisis and making certain it is treated like the heinous crime it is. I am proud to have helped introduce this important bill, ensuring that victims of sexual assault across the country will have the best possible support from their local law enforcement, and that these individuals will be provided the care they desperately need and deserve, said Rep. Handel. Our bipartisan legislation will ensure that our communities are safer, and dedicated to smart, compassionate policing. We're aiming to give officers in every pre…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/mccollum-statement-interior-department-s-decision-reinstate-mining-leases	McCollum Statement on Interior Departments Decision to Reinstate Mining Leases Adjacent to BWCA	2017-12-22	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Betty McCollum	M001143	mccollum.house.gov	legacy	Congresswoman Betty McCollum (DFL-Minn.) released the following statement on the Interior Departments decision to reverse itself and reinstate leases for dangerous sulfide-ore copper mining on federal lands adjacent to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness: I spoke with the Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke on the phone yesterday and he reiterated to me directly just how precious the waters of the Boundary Waters Canoe Wilderness Areaare and the need for ongoing environmental study. Twenty-four hours later, he broke his word and issued mining leases footsteps from the BWCA to a foreign-owned mining company. Clearly, the numerous assurances I received from Secretary Zinke about protecting the BWCA were worthless and deceitful. The Trump administration is blatantly dishonest and cannot be trusted. They are determined to sell, exploit, and destroy the American peoples natural treasures like Bears Ears National Monument, the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, and now our own Boundary Waters and Voyageurs National Park. For every Minnesotan and American who believes in conservation and values our national resources, the battle lines are drawn.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=990EDE0D-64F2-4297-A6E9-9392E81D3ACD	Klobuchar Urges U.S. Department of Education to Protect Students Affected by Abrupt Closure of McNally Smith College of Music	2017-12-22	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Amy Klobuchar	K000367	www.klobuchar.senate.gov	legacy	On December 14, McNally Smith College of Music notified students and faculty that it would close at the end of the fall semester on December 20; In the aftermath of this sudden closure, many of McNally Smiths approximately 600 students do not have a clear path forward In a letter to Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos, Klobuchar calls on the Department to protect current and former students of McNally Smith by providing closed school loan discharge relief to eligible students WASHINGTON, DC U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar has urged the U.S. Department of Education to protect students affected by the abrupt closure of McNally Smith College of Music. On December 14, McNally Smith College of Music notified students and faculty that it would close at the end of the fall semester on December 20. In the aftermath of this sudden closure, many of McNally Smiths approximately 600 students do not have a clear path forward. In a letter to Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos, Klobuchar calls on the Department to protect current and former students of McNally Smith by providing closed school loan discharge relief to eligible students. I write to raise my concerns about the impact that the abrupt closure of McNally Smith College of Music in St. Paul, Minnesota will have on current and former students of the school, Klobuchar wrote. In the aftermath of this sudden closure, many of McNally Smiths approximately 600 students do not have a clear path forward. I urge the Department to protect current and former students of McNally Smith by providing closed school loan discharge relief to eligible students. Klobuchar continued, I ask that the Department immediately begin identifying and contacting students who are eligible for closed school loan discharge. The Department should clearly state the criteria for closed school discharge during the outreach process and notify students that those who transfer academic credits to a comparable educational program at another school may be ineligible for loan relief. Last year, Klobu…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=A2FAAF2E-A7C4-4B5F-AAB3-BB56A35F23DC	Klobuchar, Thune Bipartisan Bills to Combat Human Trafficking in the Transportation Sector Pass House, Head to President’s Desk to be Signed into Law	2017-12-22	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Amy Klobuchar	K000367	www.klobuchar.senate.gov	legacy	Bipartisan legislation passed the Senate in September WASHINGTON, DC U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar and John Thune (R-SD) announced that the bipartisan Combating Human Trafficking in Commercial Vehicles Act and No Human Trafficking on Our Roads Act they introduced to combat human trafficking in the transportation sector have passed the House. The anti-trafficking legislation passed the Senate in September and will now head to the Presidents desk for signature. Commercial drivers and truckers are often the first line of defense against human trafficking, yet they dont always have the tools necessary to help prevent these crimes, Senator Klobuchar said. The passage of these two bills brings us one step closer to equipping and empowering our drivers to help prevent these heinous crimes were seeing too often in Minnesota and around the country. Once signed into law by the president, the No Human Trafficking on Our Roads Act and the Combating Human Trafficking in Commercial Vehicles Act will greatly aid in the ongoing battle against human trafficking, said Senator Thune. The Combating Human Trafficking in Commercial Vehicles Act focuses on the prevention of human trafficking. The bill would designate a human trafficking prevention coordinator at the U.S. Department of Transportation and increase outreach and education efforts at the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. The billis supported by Truckers Against Trafficking, National District Attorneys Association, Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance and Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association. The No Human Trafficking on Our Roads Act would disqualify individuals from operating a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) for their lifetime if they used a CMV to commit a felony involving human trafficking. Klobuchar is a national leader in the fight to combat human trafficking. Earlier this year, the bipartisan Abolish Human Trafficking Act she introduced with Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) passed the Senate. The legislation strengthens and reauthorizes key programs …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://paulsen.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=22&itemid=1940	Paulsen Bill to Help Small and Local Craft Breweries Included in Tax Reform	2017-12-21	2017	2017-12	Republican	House	MN	Erik Paulsen	P000594	paulsen.house.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C. Congressman Erik Paulsen (MN-03) released the following statement regarding the inclusion of the Craft Beverage Modernization and Tax Reform Act in the tax reform package passed by Congress: Six thousand breweries across the country98 percent of which are small or independentwill no longer be burdened by out-of-date regulations and high excise taxes, said Congressman Paulsen.Now, they can focus on growing their business and the local economy by expanding, creating more jobs, and fostering a sense of community. The bipartisan Craft Beverage Modernization and Tax Reform Act, which Congressman Paulsen introduced earlier this year along with Congressman Ron Kind (WI-03), modernizes the tax code and streamlines regulations for producers of craft beverages, cider, wine, and distilled spirits. It eliminates red tape by simplifying beer formulation approvals, simplifying beer recordkeeping and inventory rules, and allowing for the transfer of beer in bond to breweries. Additionally, it reduces administrative backlogs by ensuring proper funding for the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB). Small brewers are increasingly playing an important role in cities and towns across Minnesota and the country thanks to a growing appreciation of craft beverages; 83 percent of Americans live within 10 miles of a local brewery. 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 Paulsens work in Congress visitpaulsen.house.gov. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://ellison.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/letter-on-honduras-elections	Letter on Honduras Elections	2017-12-21	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Keith Ellison	E000288	ellison.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON Rep. Keith Ellison (D-MN) and twenty-six colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives sent the following letter regarding the November 26th Honduran presidential election to President Donald Trump:	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://ellison.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-ellison-to-ice-investigate-mistreatment-of-somali-detainees	Rep. Ellison to ICE: Investigate Mistreatment of Somali Detainees	2017-12-21	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Keith Ellison	E000288	ellison.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON Today, U.S. Rep. Keith Ellison (D-MN) sent a letter to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement about reports that 92 Somali nationals had been beaten, restrained, deprived of food and water, and forced to urinate on themselves while in ICE custody on a plane in Senegal. The text of the full letter reads as the following: Dear Secretary Nielsen, Acting Director Homan, Inspector General Horowitz, and Acting Inspector General Kelly: I represent the Fifth Congressional District of Minnesota, home to the largest community of Somali-Americans in the country. Constituents contacted me to express grave concern about alleged human rights abuses of 92 Somali nationals while in the custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement in transit through Dakar, Senegal from December 7 to December 9, 2017. I request a detailed account of the 48 hours ICE attempted to deport these individuals, including all actions ICE intends to take involving the detained individuals, as well as ICE officers and supervisors involved in the matter. I also request ICE delay the deportation of all individuals on this flight who have pending legal reviews of their cases, or who wish to submit complaints of mistreatment while in U.S. custody. Reports from the media, attorneys in my district, and family members of loved ones have highlighted a grave disrespect for human dignity and federal law. While on the tarmac for nearly a day, detainees were deprived of adequate food, water, and access to a working bathroom, forcing many to defecate on themselves or urinate in bottles in the presence of other detainees. One detainee with diabetes was refused medical attention and forced to remain seated and in restraints for well over 10 hours while the plane was grounded. This resulted in his appendages becoming so swollen that he could not deplane without physical assistance several hours later. It was also reported that some detainees were punched in the face by ICE agents and that one detainee was choked, despite all of them being restraine…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-commends-secretary-zinke-groundbreaking-order-creating-first-ever	Emmer Commends Secretary Zinke on Groundbreaking Order Creating First-Ever Nationwide Survey of Critical Minerals	2017-12-21	2017	2017-12	Republican	House	MN	Tom Emmer	E000294	emmer.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. Today Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) commended U.S. Secretary of the Interior Ryan Zinke for signing a groundbreaking secretarial order directing the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) to conduct the first nationwide geological and topographical survey of the United States in modern history. Secretary Zinkes action followed the Presidents executive order to identify new sources of critical minerals, ensure miners and producers have access to the best data, and streamline the leasing and permitting process to expedite production, reprocessing and recycling of minerals. "I commend Secretary Zinke and the President for their work to support our miners, streamline the permitting and review process, and enhance our national defense with this important order today, said Congressman Emmer, whose MINER Act, which passed the House last month, protects Minnesotas right to explore and, if environmentally appropriate, mine valuable precious metals. Emmer continued: Minnesota, like so many states across this great nation, is fully prepared to step up and help unleash Americas full mining potential which will improve national security, add jobs, bring economic prosperity and enhance the lives of every American. Our current environmental regulations ensure that we can secure critical minerals while protecting our nations big, beautiful landscape, and I am glad that this administration agrees sound economic, environmental, and security policy can and should coexist." "Right now the United States is almost completely reliant on foreign adversaries and competitors for many of the minerals that are deemed critical for our national and economic security. As both a former military commander and geologist, I know the risk this presents to our nation," said Secretary Ryan Zinke. "The problem is, we can't fix the problem if we don't know where the minerals are within our own borders. Other nations are far ahead of us with mapping of their mineral resources, leading to private sector investment overseas rather than right here…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-statement-cfpb-decision-delay-enforcement-dodd-frank-data	Emmer Statement on CFPB Decision to Delay Enforcement of Dodd-Frank Data Collection Rule	2017-12-21	2017	2017-12	Republican	House	MN	Tom Emmer	E000294	emmer.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. Today the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) announced its intent to provide relief for community financial institutions seeking to comply with excessive Dodd-Frank data collection and reporting requirements. This action is in line with Congressman Tom Emmers (MN-06) Home Mortgage Reporting Relief Act (H.R. 4648) which would have amended the law to provide small businesses and banks with this regulatory relief. Community banks and Credit Unions in Minnesota and around the country are cheering this decision, said Congressman Emmer. Now, rather than navigating through red rape, these small and medium-size lenders can focus on doing what they do best: helping Minnesota families achieve the American dream. I thank Director Mulvaney for his leadership at the CFPB on this issue and look forward to continue working with this administration to keep slashing burdensome regulations to allow the American economy to flourish. CLICK HERE for more information on the CFPBs decision. CLICK HERE to read the letter Emmer recently led to the CFPB on this issue. CLICK HERE for more information on Emmers Home Mortgage Reporting Relief Act. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/trump-administration-acts-reduce-dependence-foreign-critical-minerals	Trump Administration Acts to Reduce Dependence on Foreign Critical Minerals and Strengthen National Security	2017-12-21	2017	2017-12	Republican	House	MN	Tom Emmer	E000294	emmer.house.gov	legacy	(Courtesy of the Congressional Western Caucus) WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, Congressional Western Caucus Chairman Paul A. Gosar D.D.S. (AZ-04), Vice-Chairman for Policy and Appropriations Mark Amodei (NV-02), Vice-Chairman for Indian Affairs and Oceans Don Young (AK-At Large), Chief Infrastructure and Forestry Officer Bruce Westerman (AR-04), House Committee on Natural Resources Chairman Rob Bishop (UT-01) and Western Caucus Members Mike Johnson (LA-04), Doug Lamborn (CO-05), Doug LaMalfa (CA-01), Adrian Smith (NE-03), Jason Smith (MO-08), Greg Gianforte (MT-At Large), Andy Biggs (AZ-05) and Tom Emmer (MN-06) issued the following statements following President Donald J. Trump'sexecutive orderto break America's dependence on foreign minerals and U.S. Secretary of the Interior Ryan Zinke's secretarialorder to begin work on identifying immediate domestic sources for critical minerals: Chairman Gosar said, Our reliance on foreign nations of questionable stability and demonstrated hostile intentions towards the United States for critical minerals constitutes a serious security threat. This situation has come about even though the United States could readily procure the vast majority of the 23 minerals identified in the USGS Report domestically and sustainably, were we only to choose to greenlight development of our bounty of mineral resources.At a recent hearing of the Energy and Mineral Resources Subcommittee which I chair, I emphasized the extent to which arbitrary mineral withdrawals and a federal bureaucracy loathe to authorize mineral projects have brought us to this precarious juncture.But there is a way forward. I applaud President Trump and Secretary Zinke for taking action to advance American energy dominance and strengthen our national security. Congressman Amodei stated, Having introduced critical minerals legislation that has passed out of the House the last three Congresses in a row and watching that bill run straight into Senate paralysis I appreciate the fact that the Administration has taken the lead on …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://franken.senate.gov/?p=press_release&&id=3811	Sen. Franken Delivers Final Senate Floor Speech	2017-12-21	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Al Franken	F000457	franken.senate.gov	legacy	Today, U.S. Senator Al Franken delivered his final speech from the Senate floor. You can watch video of his speech by clickinghere. In his speech, Senator Franken said: "We will always have the democracy we deserve, if not the government we want. It's going to take ordinary Americans deciding to become more informed consumers of political news and opinion-and deciding that they're willing to be part of the argument themselves, instead of simply tuning it all out as noise. And if they do, I know that we will get this country back on track. "In October, 15 years after we lost Paul, I took to the Senate floor to remember him and to celebrate his life. Paul understood-better than anyone I know-the meaning and the power of politics, and I think he would have a lot to say about where we find ourselves today. Paul said, quote "Politics is not about power. Politics is not about money. Politics is not about winning for the sake of winning. Politics is about the improvement of people's lives. "Even in the face of everything that is happening today, I still believe in Paul's words. "Politics is about the improvement of people's lives." I know those words to be true because I know that the American people still believe in justice and equality and opportunity-and I see evidence of it every day." You can read Sen. Franken's remarks, as prepared for delivery,hereor below. Final Speech From Senate FloorSenator Al Franken(As prepared for delivery) M.PRESIDENT, this is my final speech on the floor of the United States Senate. I've come down here many times, as we all have. We come here to cast our votes on bills and amendments. We come to discuss and debate the issues that are important to our states and to the country. We introduce and explain legislation. And we talk about our states and what we learned on the latest visit to a community health center, a farm, or a small business. What we don't talk about all that often, M.PRESIDENT, is the work of all the men and women on our staffs who make all of this possible. I've been f…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://franken.senate.gov/?p=press_release&id=3810	Sen. Franken Looks Back on Guarding Net Neutrality, Fighting Back Against Media Consolidation, Protecting Americans Right to Privacy	2017-12-21	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Al Franken	F000457	franken.senate.gov	legacy	Today, U.S. Senator Al Franken delivered the second speech in a series of final remarks delivered on the Senate floor before his resignation. In the speech, Senator Franken, a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, recalled spearheading the fight to guard net neutrality, beat back media consolidation, and protect Americans' fundamental right to privacy. You can watch video of his speech by clickinghere. "...When I came to the Senate, very few members of Congress were talking about corporate consolidation or commercial privacy or net neutrality - issues that have gained much-deserved attention in more recent years. Whatever the reason for other members' hesitance, I felt that it was incumbent on me to get in the weeds on these issues, so that I could be a leader on them in the Senate and ultimately address the concerns of ordinary Minnesotans."That's why when the interests of the American consumer have clashed with the desires of powerful telecommunications and technology companies, I've always tried to put the public first and to fight on their behalf - by shedding light on corporate abuses and using all the tools at my disposal to curb them." You can read Sen. Franken's remarks, as prepared for delivery,hereor below. Floor Statement on Guarding Net Neutrality, Fighting Back Against Media Consolidation, Protection Americans' Right to PrivacySenator Al Franken(As prepared for delivery) M. President, I rise today to deliver the second in a series of floor speeches that I offer as I close out my time in the Senate. This evening, I want to talk about Americans' relationship with telecommunications and technology companies, and what that means for their access to essential services and for their privacy. When I entered the Senate in July 2009, then Majority Leader Reid asked me to serve on the Judiciary Committee. I pointed out that there are a lot of lawyers in the Senate, and that I wasn't one of them, but he said that he needed members with my perspective on the Committee. I wondered how my background could poss…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/mccollum-floor-remarks-opposing-republicans-continuing-resolution	McCollum Floor Remarks Opposing Republicans Continuing Resolution	2017-12-21	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Betty McCollum	M001143	mccollum.house.gov	legacy	Congresswoman Betty McCollum (DFL-Minn.), Ranking Member of the House Interior-Environment Appropriations Subcommittee, delivered the following remarks in opposition to House Republicans irresponsible three-week continuing resolution, which includes provisions that waive fiscal responsibility measures triggered by the Trump-GOP tax scam: Mr. Speaker, I rise in opposition to this continuing resolution. The federal governments fiscal year started three months ago. This Republican Congress still hasnt passed a full-year of federal funding. Rather than protecting our nation and meeting the needs of the American people, we are now debating a third continuing resolution to kick the can into January. Republicans control this House, the Senate, and the White House. Clearly they do not take their responsibility to fund the federal government seriously. Frankly, they should be embarrassed. For the past three months, Democrats have sought to work with Republicans to secure a budget agreement and responsibly pass appropriations bills. But Republicans have been too busy to meet this basic responsibility. Instead, they have spent months working in secret on their deficit-busting tax scam. And lets be clear: the Republican tax scam is part of this CR as well. This CR contains language to exempt the Republicans lavish tax cuts for big corporations and billionaires from the Statutory Pay-As-You-Go Act. Republicans passed their tax scam knowing that it was fiscally irresponsible and would trigger huge cuts to Medicare and other vital programs. Now they are asking Democrats to help bail them out. I didnt vote for the Republican tax scam, and Im not going to paper over their mistakes so President Trump can sign it into law. But here is what I will do. As the Ranking Member of the Interior-Environment Appropriations Subcommittee, I know Republican appropriators are as frustrated as I am. And I want to work with them to find common ground and responsibly fund our government. Its time for appropriators to do our job Republicans and De…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://walz.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/walz-statement-on-continuing-resolution	Walz Statement on Continuing Resolution	2017-12-21	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Tim Walz	W000799	walz.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Representative Tim Walz (MN-01) released the following statement after voting against H.R. 1370: Since the last continuing resolution, which I supported, Congressional Republicans had two weeks and an entire year before that to reach across the aisle to work out a bipartisan long-term funding deal. I stood ready, as I still do, to work with them to find common ground on a long-term funding measure that provides our military the resources and certainty it needs to plan into the future and ensures the Department of Veterans Affairs has the capacity to directly deliver quality and timely health care to our veterans. Instead, Republicans in Congress once again chose the path of partisanship and prioritized their devastating tax bill, of which 83% of tax cuts will go to the wealthiest one percent and 13 million Americans will lose health coverage due to their repeal of the ACA individual mandate. In doing so, they neglected Congress obligation to give our service members and the VA the long-term funding and certainty they require and deserve. While it is absolutely critical that the VA Choice Program continue to be funded, this stop-gap measure fails to live up to the promise we made to our veterans. My Republican colleagues also chose to turn their backs on bipartisan proposals which I fully support including protecting the 125,000 Minnesota children who rely on the Childrens Health Insurance Program through passage of a clean, full CHIP reauthorization, as well as protecting Americas Dreamers through passage of the Dream Act. My constituents are sick and tired of this constant partisan gameshow Republicans are playing here on Capitol Hill. Its long past time for my colleagues on the other side of the aisle to recognize that working with Democrats is whats best for the country. We are all Americans, and we were all sent to Washington to work together to solve our nations challenges. Our democracy demands collaboration and compromise, and Americans demand better. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=76D7B421-76D6-449C-B77D-BC235A4F2153	Klobuchar, Cornyn Introduce Bipartisan ‘Abby Honold Act’ to Promote Use of Trauma-Informed Techniques in Responding to Sexual Assault Crimes	2017-12-21	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Amy Klobuchar	K000367	www.klobuchar.senate.gov	legacy	Minnesota Congressman Tom Emmer joins senators in effort inspired by Abby Honold, a former University of Minnesota student and rape survivor Bill would establish a demonstration program for trauma-informed training for law enforcement, including training for interviewing victims of sexual assault and investigating sexual assault crimes WASHINGTON, DC U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and John Cornyn (R-TX) today introduced the Abby Honold Actbipartisan legislation that would promote the use of trauma-informed techniques in responding to sexual assault crimes. The legislation was inspired by Abby Honold, a former student of the University of Minnesota and rape survivor who worked with Senator Al Franken to bring this issue to the forefront. The bill would establish a demonstration program to expand the use of trauma-informed techniques intended to ensure the use of evidence-based practices in responding to sexual assault crimes, prevent re-traumatization of the victim, and improve communication between victims and law enforcement officers in an effort to increase the likelihood of the successful investigation and prosecution of alleged sexual assault crimes in a manner that protects the victim to the greatest extent possible. Congressman Tom Emmer (R-MN) today introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives. Im in awe of Abbys ability to turn an incredibly horrific experience into something that could help other survivors, Senator Klobuchar said. We can and should do more for survivors, including ensuring law enforcement has the skills and resources to avoid re-traumatization and effectively see investigations through to prosecution using the most sensitive and effective techniques. Often times the trauma victims experience after a sexual assault requires a special set of techniques for investigators to work with victims to understand what happened and make them feel comfortable to participate in investigations, said Senator Cornyn. This legislation will give law enforcement the training…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=807CF123-CDCA-4171-A813-2854E7ECE104	Klobuchar, Lankford, Harris, Graham Introduce Bipartisan Election Security Bill	2017-12-21	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Amy Klobuchar	K000367	www.klobuchar.senate.gov	legacy	Bill would protect against foreign interference of future elections WASHINGTON, DC U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), James Lankford (R-OK), Kamala Harris (D-CA), and Lindsey Graham (R-SC) today introduced the Secure Elections Act, a bill to strengthen election cybersecurity in America and protect against foreign interference in future elections. Cosponsors include Senators Susan Collins (R-ME) and Martin Heinrich (D-NM). During the 2016 election, intelligence reports established that Russia hacked presidential campaign accounts, launched cyberattacks against at least 21 state election systems, and attacked a US voting systems software company. To protect future elections, the Secure Elections Act streamlines cybersecurity information-sharing between federal intelligence entities and state election agencies; provides security clearances to state election officials; and provides resources for states to upgrade election security. This bipartisan solution would bolster our election systems against future threats while protecting states primacy in running elections. Election security is national security, and our election systems have become a target for foreign adversaries, said Klobuchar, Ranking Member of the Rules Committee with jurisdiction over federal elections. The freedom to choose our leaders and know with full confidence that those leaders were chosen in free and fair elections is something that Americans have fought and died for since our country was founded. We must do everything in our power to protect our democracy from future attacks, and ensure those on the front-lines of administering elections are equipped with the tools and resources necessary to keep them safe. Time is of the essence, the next federal election is less than a year away. Safe and free elections run by individual states are at the core of our national identity, said Lankford, a member of the Intelligence Committee. We were born as a nation because patriots stood up against foreign tyranny.During the 2016 elections, Russia…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://ellison.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-ellison-jayapal-pocan-and-cicilline-introduce-antitrust-legislation	Reps. Ellison, Jayapal, Pocan and Cicilline Introduce Antitrust Legislation	2017-12-20	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Keith Ellison	E000288	ellison.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON U.S. Rep. Keith Ellison (D-MN), Rep. Pramila Jayapal (D-WA), Rep. Mark Pocan (D-WI), and Rep. David N. Cicilline (D-RI) yesterday introduced the 21stCentury Competition Commission Act (H.R. 4686), which would fund the creation of a new body charged with investigating the impact of corporate mergers and increasing market concentration. The representatives bill would model the new commission on the Temporary National Economic Committee that existed during President Franklin D. Roosevelts administration. Monopolistic corporations have grown so big and powerful that they have hijacked our democratic process and our daily lives, leading us to a new Gilded Age, said Rep. Ellison. This sweeping bill aims to analyze all the ways monopolization has made our economy worse for working families, and help our government use existing antitrust laws to fix it. Robust anti-trust laws help protect everyday people and ensure that hardworking Americans have good wages, and that businesses are incentivized to improve consumer services and provide competitive prices,said Rep. Jayapal. Im proud to cosponsor the 21st Century Competition Commission Act. If Republicans are serious about protecting Main Street, not Wall Street, they will join us in passing this bill to simply assess the scope of America's market concentration problem." "This bill is an important step in the anti-monopoly movement,Said Lina Khan of Open Markets Institute.The first TNEC, and similar investigations such as the Pujo and Pecora hearings, helped expose the extremity of America's concentration problem. They prompted public officials and private parties to bring hundreds of lawsuits enforcing the antitrust laws, based on the information that these commissions uncovered. This effort will similarly fuel critical reforms." The 21st Century Competition Commission Act will require an examination into increasing market concentrationacross all sectors in the economy, includingagricultural and information technology industries.It also empowers existingregulat…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-applauds-new-tax-reform-looks-tackle-government-spending-new-year	Emmer Applauds New Tax Reform, Looks to Tackle Government Spending in the New Year	2017-12-20	2017	2017-12	Republican	House	MN	Tom Emmer	E000294	emmer.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. Today Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) released the following statement after Congress passed, and sent to the President's desk for signature, a new United States tax code:This is a historic day for Minnesota and for America. The President's signature on these significant reforms to our tax code will deliver major tax-relief for the middle-class, allow businesses around the country to create new opportunities for every American and boost our nations economy. Minnesotans will not only see bigger paychecks starting next year, they will be able to keep more of that hard-earned money. This revamp of our nations broken tax code is long overdue. But our work has only just begun. With a better tax code in place and our continuedeffortsto roll back thousands of harmful regulations, the next step is addressing reckless government spending. Our national debt is upwards of a whopping $20 trillion and continues to skyrocket every day. As we move into next year, we will start reforming government spending to ensure future generations of Minnesotans live in a more prosperous America. To read the full legislative text of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, clickhere. To read the policy highlights of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, clickhere.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://franken.senate.gov/?p=press_release&&id=3809	In First of Final Senate Speeches, Sen. Franken Reflects on Working to Improve Education for Minnesotans and All Americans	2017-12-20	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Al Franken	F000457	franken.senate.gov	legacy	Today, U.S. Senator Al Franken delivered the first of what will be a series of final speeches delivered on the Senate floor before his resignation. In the speech, Sen. Franken, a member of the Senate Education Committee, looked back on the years he's spent fighting to better the nation's education system, and urged his colleagues to defend and continue the progress he has made. You can watch video of his speech by clickinghere. "...We still have people on both sides of the aisle here in the Senate who care passionately about education, and who are willing to do the hard work of bipartisan legislating in order to improve our schools and keep that promise of opportunity for the next generation. "But if the last eight and a half years have taught me that progress on education is possible, even in a divided Washington, this past year has taught me that further progress isn't inevitable, and that the progress we've already made may not be safe. "It will be up to my colleagues not just to address the policy challenges posed by an education system that faces a big transition and a budget that forces hard choices, but the political challenges of the moment. It is my hope and prayer that they will be up to the task. Our children's future depends on it." You can read Sen. Franken's remarks, as prepared for delivery,hereor below. Floor Statement Reflecting on Working to Improve Education for Minnesotans and All Americans Senator Al Franken (As prepared for delivery) M. President: Unlike most of my colleagues, the time I've spent here in the Senate represents the sum total of my experience in elected office. For most of my life, I approached politics and public policy from a very different perspective. I tried to be an educated citizen who understood how the issues being debated here in Washington affected me, and my family, and my neighbors. I tried to be an advocate for the values I believed in: honesty in public discourse, for sure, but also fairness, and justice, and the idea that, in America, we're all in this toget…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://franken.senate.gov/?p=press_release&id=3809	In First of Final Senate Speeches, Sen. Franken Reflects on Working to Improve Education for Minnesotans and All Americans	2017-12-20	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Al Franken	F000457	franken.senate.gov	legacy	Today, U.S. Senator Al Franken delivered the first of what will be a series of final speeches delivered on the Senate floor before his resignation. In the speech, Sen. Franken, a member of the Senate Education Committee, looked back on the years he's spent fighting to better the nation's education system, and urged his colleagues to defend and continue the progress he has made. You can watch video of his speech by clickinghere. "...We still have people on both sides of the aisle here in the Senate who care passionately about education, and who are willing to do the hard work of bipartisan legislating in order to improve our schools and keep that promise of opportunity for the next generation. "But if the last eight and a half years have taught me that progress on education is possible, even in a divided Washington, this past year has taught me that further progress isn't inevitable, and that the progress we've already made may not be safe. "It will be up to my colleagues not just to address the policy challenges posed by an education system that faces a big transition and a budget that forces hard choices, but the political challenges of the moment. It is my hope and prayer that they will be up to the task. Our children's future depends on it." You can read Sen. Franken's remarks, as prepared for delivery,hereor below. Floor Statement Reflecting on Working to Improve Education for Minnesotans and All Americans Senator Al Franken (As prepared for delivery) M. President: Unlike most of my colleagues, the time I've spent here in the Senate represents the sum total of my experience in elected office. For most of my life, I approached politics and public policy from a very different perspective. I tried to be an educated citizen who understood how the issues being debated here in Washington affected me, and my family, and my neighbors. I tried to be an advocate for the values I believed in: honesty in public discourse, for sure, but also fairness, and justice, and the idea that, in America, we're all in this toget…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://paulsen.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=22&itemid=1937	Paulsen Statement on Passage of Once-in-a-Generation Tax Reform	2017-12-19	2017	2017-12	Republican	House	MN	Erik Paulsen	P000594	paulsen.house.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C. Congressman Erik Paulsen (MN-03) released the following statement regarding the historic passage of H.R. 1, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act: Today marks a new beginning for hardworking, middle-income Americans who will be able to keep more of the money they earn, better provide for their families, and save for retirement, said Congressman Paulsen.Families and businesses across the country will no longer be held back by a broken, outdated tax code and can instead have hope in a prosperous future. Congressman Paulsen spoke on H.R. 1 on the House floor before passage of the bill, which can be seen here. The bill includes provisions that: Lower individual tax rates; Nearly double the standard deduction; Double the Child Tax Credit from $1,000 to $2,000 for each child; Preserve the mortgage interest deduction for current and future homeowners; Lower the top U.S. corporate tax rate from 35 percent to 21 percent; Modernize our international tax system so American money earned overseas is no longer taxed twice, but is brought back home to keep headquarters, manufacturing, jobs, and innovation in the U.S.; Deliver significant tax relief for Main Street small business with a first-ever 20 percent tax deduction that applies to the first $315,000 of income earned; Allow immediate expensing so companies can buy new equipment and software without complex depreciation schedules; and Protect the ability of small businesses to write off interest on loans. The finalized plan also includes two provisions authored by Congressman Paulsen. The first is the Empowering Employees through Stock Ownership Act. At many startup companies, employees are offered stock options or equity interest as part of their compensation. Currently, if employees exercise these options, they are required to immediately pay taxes often times before they may have the available cash to do so. As a result, these rank-and-file employees cannot afford to exercise their sto…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://collinpeterson.house.gov/press-release/peterson-statement-gop-tax-bill	Peterson statement on GOP tax bill	2017-12-19	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Collin Peterson	P000258	collinpeterson.house.gov	legacy	Congressman Collin C. Peterson made the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 1. While many people will get a modest temporary tax cut under the Republican tax bill, others will see their taxes go up if they face high medical expenses, pay high state and local taxes, or have families with many children, Peterson said. I cant support a bill that will make the tax system more complicated for many small businesses while adding up to $2 trillion to the nations debt. This bill was a missed opportunity to promote real economic growth, simplify our tax code, and help the middle class.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-supports-house-passes-major-tax-cut-legislation	Emmer Supports, House Passes Major Tax Cut Legislation	2017-12-19	2017	2017-12	Republican	House	MN	Tom Emmer	E000294	emmer.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. -Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) released the following statement after he supported, and the House passed, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (H.R. 1) which now moves to the Senate for consideration this evening: This is a major victory for Minnesotans and Americans across the country. Today the House put the American people first, delivering major tax relief and letting middle-class families keep more of what they earn. By lowering individual taxes, expanding the child tax credit, doubling the standard deduction, providing relief from the Death Tax, and letting businesses create opportunities for millions across the country, we are delivering on our promise to get the American economy back to its full strength, with the American people, not the government, in the drivers seat. I encourage my colleagues in the Senate to pass this bill so our President can sign it into law. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/mccollum-statement-final-passage-trump-gop-tax-scam	McCollum Statement on Final Passage of Trump-GOP Tax Scam	2017-12-19	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Betty McCollum	M001143	mccollum.house.gov	legacy	Congresswoman Betty McCollum (DFL-Minn.) released the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives passed the final version of the Trump-GOP tax scam: Today House Republicans voted to raise taxes on middle class Minnesotans to pay for a deficit-exploding giveaway to big corporations and billionaires. With its rollback of the state and local tax deduction and its dismantling of key parts of the Affordable Care Act, this bill is especially harmful to Minnesota. The Trump-GOP tax bill was written in secret and loaded up with special interest provisions, including a kickback to wealthy real estate investors like President Donald Trump and a Big Oil-backed plan to turn parts of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge into an industrial oil field. The trillions of dollars in giveaways to the wealthy and well-connected in this bill will explode annual deficits and trigger cuts to vital programs like Medicare, Medicaid, nutrition assistance, veterans benefits, and even Social Security. In my 17 years in the U.S. House, I have seen few pieces of legislation as devastating as this tax scam. In the year ahead, I look forward to joining millions of Minnesotans and Americans holding the Republicans who voted for this bill accountable.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://nolan.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/nolan-votes-no-on-republican-tax-bill-that-punishes-america-s-middle	Nolan Votes No On Republican Tax Bill That Punishes Americas Middle Class	2017-12-19	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Rick Nolan	N000127	nolan.house.gov	legacy	[WASHINGTON D.C.] Rep Rick Nolan today voted no on the conference report of the Republican tax bill that punishes Americas middle class. The bill, met with bipartisan opposition, would provide a $1.5 trillion dollar tax cut to the super-rich and corporations, raise taxes on 86 million middle class households more than half of Americas middle class and pave the way for cuts to Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security. The simple truth is, this Republican tax bill is an underhanded and unconscionable attack on Americas middle class the very people who constitute the foundation of our Nations greatness, Nolan said. This Republican bill hands trillions to the super rich, raises taxes on millions of everyday Americans, and sets the stage for the privatization and gutting of Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security. I voted no on this bill and will continue to vehemently oppose it in every way I can. The most recent Tax Policy Center analysis of the conference report indicates that 83% of the tax cuts under H.R.1 will go to the top 1% of Americans. In addition, 86 million middle class households will see a tax increase. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://walz.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/walz-votes-no-on-gop-tax-bill-0	Walz Votes No on GOP Tax Bill	2017-12-19	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Tim Walz	W000799	walz.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Representative Tim Walz (MN-01) released the following statement after voting against the Conference Report on H.R. 1, the Republican tax bill: Instead of working across the aisle to find common ground on real tax reform solutions, my Republican colleagues have once again rushed a vote on a partisan bill that would have a detrimental impact on millions of Americans. Under this legislation, 86 million middle class families would see their taxes increase; the funding for farm safety net programs our farmers rely on during tough times would be at risk; health insurance premiums would rise; 13 million fewer Americans would have health coverage; and the health and wellbeing of folks on Medicaid including 1.75 million veterans would be threatened as Republicans look to cut vital programs in the wake of the estimated $2.2 trillion this bill would add to our federal deficit. To make matters even worse, 83 percent of the tax cuts in this bill would go to the wealthiest one percent of Americans, many of whom belong to the political donor class that pours large sums of money into elections all across the nation. I believe this bill is evidence that the influence of money in our politics is taking a growing toll on the good we are capable of achieving here in Washington for working families back home. In order to ensure the voices of all those we are tasked with representing here on Capitol Hill are heard, it is imperative that we reform how campaigns are financed in this country. Walz, who has been vocal about the harm the GOP tax bill would do to veterans, farmers and middle class families, announced a statement from Vice President Walter Mondale and Governor Arne Carlson on an earlier version of the Republican legislation in November. The full statement can be read here. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=99F158E6-E97D-47FF-97D0-991FE5AC5637	Klobuchar, Collins, Baldwin Press Strongbridge Biopharma for Answers on Dramatic Price Increase for Keveyis Drug that Treats Glaucoma and Rare Genetic Disease	2017-12-19	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Amy Klobuchar	K000367	www.klobuchar.senate.gov	legacy	After a series of companies bought and sold the right to the decades-old drug, the list price was hiked from $50 to $13,650 for 100 pills in 2015; Strongbridge recently acquired the drug and hiked the price even further to $15,001 In a letter to Chief Executive Officer Matthew Pauls, Klobuchar, Collins, and Baldwin urge Strongbridge to take immediate steps to alleviate the burden their price increases have put on patients and to ensure the companys behavior fully complies with relevant laws, regulations and guidance WASHINGTON, DC U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Susan Collins (R-ME), and Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) have pressed Strongbridge Biopharma for answers on the dramatic price increase for Keveyis, formerly known as Daranide, a drug that treats glaucoma and a type of rare genetic disease known as periodic paralysis, which causes attacks of muscle weakness or loss of muscle movement. After a series of companies bought and sold the right to the decades-old dichlorphenamide, the list price was hiked from $50 to $13,650 for 100 pills in 2015. Strongbridge recently acquired the drug and hiked the price even further to $15,001. In a letter to Chief Executive Officer Matthew Pauls, Klobuchar, Collins, and Baldwin urge Strongbridge to take immediate steps to alleviate the burden their price increases have put on patients and to ensure the companys behavior fully complies with relevant laws, regulations and guidance. We are writing to express our deep concern regarding the dramatic price increase for Keveyis, formerly known as Daranide, after Strongbridge Biopharma acquired the drug. As recently as the early 2000s, patients could obtain 100 pills of dichlorphenamide at a list price of $50, the senators wrote. Yet, after a series of companies bought and sold the rights to this decades-old drug and obtained a new rare disease designation from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the list price increased to $13,650 for 100 pills in 2015. Strongbridge recently acquired the drug and hiked the price even further …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=B3961145-FBA8-4B71-BA36-0EB4FAB29C0E	As Department of Homeland Security Secretary Nielsen Begins Tenure, Klobuchar, Lankford Urge Making Election Cybersecurity a Top Priority	2017-12-19	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Amy Klobuchar	K000367	www.klobuchar.senate.gov	legacy	Intelligence reports make it clear that Russia hacked presidential campaign accounts from both parties, launched cyberattacks against at least 21 state election systems, attacked a U.S. voting systems software company, and illegally obtained emails from more than 100 local election officials; In response to these attacks on our election system, in January 2017 the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) determined that election infrastructure should be designated as a subsector of the existing Government Facilities critical infrastructure sector In a letter, Klobuchar and Lankford call on DHS Secretary Kristjen Nielsen to do more to fully protect our systems, including improving information sharing between states and the federal government and providing states with resources, best practices, and manpower to help combat attacks and update voting technology; The senators have also developed bipartisan legislation to require DHS cooperation and leadership on establishing information sharing processes and improving election cybersecurity WASHINGTON, DC As Department of Homeland (DHS) Security Secretary Kristjen Nielsen begins her tenure, U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and James Lankford (R-OK) have urged her to prioritize election cybersecurity. Intelligence reports make it clear that Russia hacked presidential campaign accounts from both parties, launched cyberattacks against at least 21 state election systems, attacked a U.S. voting systems software company, and illegally obtained emails from more than 100 local election officials. In response to these attacks on our election system, in January 2017 the DHS determined that election infrastructure should be designated as a subsector of the existing Government Facilities critical infrastructure sector. In a letter, Klobuchar and Lankford call on DHS Secretary Nielsen to do more to fully protect our systems, including improving information sharing between states and the federal government and providing states with resources, best practices, and manpower to hel…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://collinpeterson.house.gov/press-release/peterson-klobuchar-walz-mccollum-nolan-emmer-and-ellison-urge-us-customs-and-border	Peterson, Klobuchar, Walz, McCollum, Nolan, Emmer, and Ellison urge U.S. Customs and Border Patrol to initiate a pilot program in border crossing technology and to delay the reduction in service hours at the Lancaster and Roseau Ports of Entry	2017-12-18	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Collin Peterson	P000258	collinpeterson.house.gov	legacy	Congressman Collin C. Peterson led a bipartisan letter with Senator Amy Klobuchar, Rep. Tim Walz, Rep. Betty McCollum, Rep. Rick Nolan, Rep. Tom Emmer, and Rep. Keith Ellison urging U.S. Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) to delay the announced reduction of service hours in Lancaster and Roseau Ports of Entry (POEs), and to create a pilot program using proven technology to increase service for non-commercial crossings at those sites. CBP surprised residents living in northwest Minnesota by announcing they would be dramatically reducing service hours in the Lancaster and Roseau POEs and shift officers to Pembina, ND. Residents attending town halls voiced their strong objections to the reduction of service citing concerns about the impact it would have on the regions economy. In the letter, the lawmakers identify the pilot program already underway at the NW Angle as a model for what can be created at the Lancaster and Roseau POEs. We write to urge U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to initiate a pilot program that utilizes existing virtual interview process technology at the Lancaster and Roseau Ports of Entry (POEs) and delay the reduction in service hours until the pilot can be launched. The lawmakers continued, with slight infrastructure improvements, Lancaster and Roseau POEs will be able to safely and efficiently process passenger vehicles twenty-four hours a day without rerouting them through inconvenient ports in Pembina or Warroad. If CBP agrees to expand the use of this technology for these ports of entry, it could have wide-ranging benefits for Minnesota. The benefits of the new technology include establishing an efficient way for area residents and tourists to check-in with CBP officials remotely while expanding resources for local businesses and resort owners. Current hours of service at the Port of Lancaster are 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. The CBP has announced that they will reduce the hours of service, operating from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. between October 1 and April 30 and 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. between May 1 t…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://collinpeterson.house.gov/rep-petersons-newsletter-12152017	Rep. Peterson's Newsletter 12/15/2017	2017-12-18	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Collin Peterson	P000258	collinpeterson.house.gov	legacy	Wild Turkeys Outside Thief River Falls Dear Friends, This week I wrote and sent a bipartisan letter, along with Senator Klobuchar and Representatives Walz, Ellison, Nolan, and Emmer to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Agency after they finalized a proposal to reduce service hours at the Lancaster and Roseau Ports of Entry. Tourism and trade from our neighbors to the north continues to play an important part in keeping Minnesotas rural economy strong. Next week, I return to Washington as the House is expected to consider tax legislation and an additional government funding measure. Sincerely, Congressman Collin C. Peterson Minnesota 7th District American Petroleum Institute Jack Gerard, President and CEO of API I sat down with the President and CEO of the American Petroleum Institute Jack Gerard to talk about areas of common concerns regarding the Renewable Fuel Standard. I think there is room for agreement about the uncertainty surrounding the renewable fuel program, especially looking towards the future of the program. I always welcome serious discussions about these issues as it becomes more important than ever to have a diverse and competitive fuel supply. Minnesota Farm Bureau I met with Minnesota Farm Bureau President Kevin Paap, his wife Julie, and Amber Glaeser on Monday to talk about the next farm bill. Kevin was in Washington for a meeting of the Farm Bureau state presidents. We talked about several programs, including the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP), the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), and the Livestock Indemnity Program (LIP), as well as the anticipated timeline for the farm bill moving ahead. I look forward to continuing the conversation with Minnesota Farm Bureau and other stakeholders as we progress on this bill. Point of View with Chris Berg Earlier this week I was a guest on Point of View with Chris Berg. We talked about Senator Frankens resignation, the appointment of Lt. Governor Tina Smith to the Senate, and the current GOP tax plan. I think my Republica…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://ellison.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-ellison-on-honduran-election	Rep. Ellison on Honduran Election	2017-12-18	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Keith Ellison	E000288	ellison.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTONRep. Keith Ellison (D-MN) issued the following statement after Honduras electoral commission declared right-wing incumbent Juan Orlando Hernndez as the winner of the November 26 presidential election: Whats happening in Honduras is an affront to people across the world who believe in the rule of law and government accountability. The Honduran presidential election has been stained by repeated inconsistencies, flaws, and allegations of fraud so widespread, credible and severe that the Organization of American States has already determined that elections lacked integrity and has expressed serious doubts about the results. They are right, and the Honduran people are owed either a full recount of the vote or a new election. Additionally, our State Department has to make clear that we will not tolerate when aforeign government starts to crack down on nonviolent protest within its borders. 22 protesters have already lost their lives at the hands of state-sponsored violence in Honduras, and we in the United States have to speak clearly in denouncing that abuse of power. The Honduran people deserve the right to a free and fair election, and to voice dissent without fear of violence.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-emmer-hultgren-stand-small-businesses-and-community-banks-introduce	Reps. Emmer & Hultgren Stand Up for Small Businesses and Community Banks, Introduce Legislation to Provide Regulatory Relief	2017-12-18	2017	2017-12	Republican	House	MN	Tom Emmer	E000294	emmer.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) and Congressman Randy Hultgren (IL-14) continue to stand up for small businesses and community banks, introducing the Home Mortgage Reporting Relief Act (H.R. 4648) this week. The bill gives community banks and credit unions additional time to comply with new, excessive data collection and reporting requirements required by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). I consistently hear from community banks and credit unions throughout the Sixth District that the CFPBs new rules will make it harder for them to do what they do best: help Minnesota families achieve the American dream, said Congressman Emmer.While we work to blunt the impact of these burdensome regulations, this bill will provide Main Street banks additional time to comply with the new rule so that they can focus on getting Americans into new homes in a timely manner rather than figuring out how to navigate through more red tape. The new Home Mortgage Disclosure Act requirements again demonstrate that the CFPB does not understand our community banks and credit unions. Just as one burdensome mortgage rule is finalized, our community financial institutions have to deal with a new rule. This bill will give community banks and credit unions some breathing room so they can refocus on meeting the financial needs of families and small businesses in Illinois, said Congressman Hultgren. The Home Mortgage Reporting Relief Act: Provides a one year safe harbor for financial institutions from having to comply with the data collection and reporting requirements, respectively, issued under the CFPBs October 2015 and September 2017 amendments to the Home Mortgage Disclosure Act (Regulation C). Restricts the CFPBs ability to make any of the new data collected and reported publicly available. Under the Home Mortgage Disclosure Act (HMDA) the CFPBs revised Regulation C final rule will go into effect on January 1, 2018. The final rule requires banks and credit unions to collect 48 additional unique data fie…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://nolan.house.gov/the-monday-report/hijacked	Hijacked!	2017-12-18	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Rick Nolan	N000127	nolan.house.gov	legacy	The Internets Been Hijacked! Our Twitter graphic calling attention to the end of net neutrality went viral last week. The point is this is what the Slow Lane of the Internet could soon look like. Dear Friend, The Trump faction of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has hijacked the Internet for super-rich corporate America.Ignoring protests submitted by millions of regular consumers, the FCCs Republican majority voted last week toend net neutrality. Ive already joined with a number of my colleagues in sponsoring legislation to reverse this anti-consumer decision.But in the meantime,out the door will go rules that have prevented giant telecom corporations like AT&T, Verizon, and Comcast from creating a two-lane Internet a fast lane for the wealthy who can pay, and a slow lane or no lane at all for everyone else left behind. Now for example, with net neutrality rules gone, big box mega-store chains can pay their Internet service providers a premium price to speed online circulars to customers. Meanwhile, regular priced online offers from your local, family-owned hardware store will wait their turn. Anddont be surprised when your Internet provider begins offering high-priced service plans that look like Cable TV where you have to buy lots of channels you dont want to get the few you like and use. In short,the end of net neutrality will be bad for consumers, bad for small businesses, and bad for everyone who has come to depend on fast, dependable Internet in daily life.Mark my words Im going to do all I can to put the Internet back in the hands of regular people not wealthy service providers and the huge corporate interests that can pay for Cadillac level service others cant afford. We will keep you posted as events proceed. Meanwhile, I want to hear your thoughts. Feel free to contact any of our offices listed below orsend me an email. Sincerely, Read the full letter HERE.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=636ED4FF-546F-43BD-9DDB-67B6A1719282	Klobuchar, Markey, Blumenthal, Hirono Introduce Legislation to Encourage Young People to Vote	2017-12-18	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Amy Klobuchar	K000367	www.klobuchar.senate.gov	legacy	Millennials and young voters make up 31 percent of the electorate but have the lowest turnout of any age group; In a study of voter registration, 24 percent of young people cited difficulties in the process for their failing to register, saying they did not know where or how to register to vote The Students Voicing Opinions in Todays Elections (VOTE) Act would create a pilot program to educate high school seniors about registering to vote WASHINGTON, DC U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ed Markey (D-MA), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), and Mazie Hirono (D-HI) have introduced legislation to encourage young people to vote. Millennials and young voters make up 31 percent of the electorate but have the lowest turnout of any age group. In a study of young voter registration, 24 percent of young people cited difficulties in the process for their failing to register, saying they did not know where or how to register to vote. The Students Voicing Opinions in Todays Elections (VOTE) Act would create a pilot program to educate high school seniors about registering to vote. It has never been more important for young people to make their voices heard, and voting is one big way to do just that, Klobuchar said. Our bill would help empower high school seniors with the knowledge they need to register to vote as soon as they are eligible and make those voices count. This measure engages new voters when they are still in high school and strengthens our democracy, Blumenthal said. This first of its kind pilot program will inform and inspire the youngest generation invigorating a key demographic as we seek to engage all Americans in a truly participatory democracy. At a critical juncture in American history, our bill recognizes that our democracy is at its strongest when every voice is heard. While young people make up an increasing percentage of the electorate, those numbers are not reflected at the polls, Hirono said. The Students VOTE Act would give schools critical resources to help new voters register and encourage you…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://paulsen.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=22&itemid=1938	Paulsen, Moore Introduce Legislation to Help Trafficking Victims, Invest in Resources and Training	2017-12-15	2017	2017-12	Republican	House	MN	Erik Paulsen	P000594	paulsen.house.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C. Congressman Erik Paulsen (MN-03) and Congresswoman Gwen Moore (WI-04) introduced the Trafficking Victims Protection Act to promote justice and services for trafficking survivors. This legislation encourages federal agencies to promptly report data on human trafficking offenses to the FBI and requires the Department of Homeland Security to submit an annual assessment on trends from human trafficking investigations. It also further improves training for law enforcement personnel by promoting a victim-centered approach to combatting human trafficking. When human trafficking survivors are freed from this modern-day slavery, we need to make sure these victims have the resources they need to get back on their feet and get the justice they deserve, said Congressman Paulsen.We must remain diligent in the effort to end sex trafficking and bolster the tools we have to help those in need. For far too long, Americas criminal justice system has failed to protect those who have fallen victim to human trafficking, said Congresswoman Moore.In order to substantively combat this pervasive and complex issue, local and federal law enforcement officials must have the tools and training necessary to identify and respond to human trafficking in all of its forms. The Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2017 not only addresses these concerns, but also builds upon the progress of the Violence Against Women Act to strengthen existing laws and grant federal agencies the capacity to provide critical services to trafficking survivors. During a time in our national politics when sensible legislation is regularly stymied by partisan entrenchment, I take great pride in the work Rep. Erik Paulsen and I have achieved in developing a bipartisan approach to end this form of modern-day slavery. Additionally, the bill formally authorizes an Office of Victim Assistance within the Department of Homeland Security. The specially trained victim assistance personnel at this office play a crucial role in securing victims cooper…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=10260004-A91D-467E-B4D2-756C23B18D2C	Klobuchar Pushes to Restore FCC’s Net Neutrality Rules	2017-12-15	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Amy Klobuchar	K000367	www.klobuchar.senate.gov	legacy	CRA resolution would reinstate robust net neutrality protections and the Open Internet Order WASHINGTON, DC U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), along with Senator Edward J. Markey (D-MA) and 14 other senators, announced a plan to introduce a Congressional Review Act (CRA) resolution that would undo yesterdays action by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and restore the 2015 net neutrality rules. On Thursday, the FCC approved an item to eliminate protections that prevented internet service providers from setting up internet fast and slow lanes and ensured they could not block, slow down or prioritize internet traffic. As a strong supporter of a free and open internet, I was extremely disappointed in the Federal Communications Commissions vote to eliminate net neutrality rulesa vote that will harm our rural communities, consumers, and small businesses, Klobuchar said. We must continue the fight to preserve net neutrality protections. With this action, Congress can push back on the Federal Communications Commissions decision to repeal protections that keep the internet free and open. A copy of the CRA can be found HERE. Other senators co-sponsoring the CRA resolution include Senators Ron Wyden (D-OR), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Richard Blumenthal (DCT), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Gary Peters (D-MI), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Patrick Leahy (D-VT), and Bernie Sanders (I-VT). ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=A75E3410-12CE-4760-976D-143387AD6B3E	Klobuchar Statement on Disney’s Potential Acquisition of 21st Century Fox	2017-12-15	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Amy Klobuchar	K000367	www.klobuchar.senate.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, DC U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar released the following statement on the announcement of The Walt Disney Companys potential acquisition of 21st Century Fox: "This week we have seen the announcement of another industry-changing merger, which would have major implications in television, film, and media. Yesterday, Disney announced that it is acquiring 21st Century Foxs film and television studios, cable entertainment networks, and international television businesses. Im concerned about the impact of this transaction on American consumers. As the Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Antitrust, I have asked Senator Lee, who has worked closely with me in this area in the past, and Chairman Grassley to schedule a hearing on the proposed merger so that there is appropriate oversight over the antitrust review process. Klobuchar is the Ranking Member on the Subcommittee on Antitrust, Competition Policy and Consumer Rights. She has chaired or been the Ranking Democrat on hearings regarding mergers in the telecommunications, health insurance, airlines, music publishing, beer, and contact lens industries. This week she met with Assistant Attorney General Makan Delrahim about current issues in antitrust law and policy and the need for continued vigilance in this area. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=D3E7E839-650C-4394-AB3B-FF212F19AB24	Klobuchar Cosponsors Bipartisan Legislation to Enhance American Timber Economy	2017-12-15	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Amy Klobuchar	K000367	www.klobuchar.senate.gov	legacy	The Good Neighbor Authority Improvement Act would update Good Neighbor Authority to avoid timber harvest delays, allow needed road repairs WASHINGTON, DC U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar has cosponsored the bipartisan Good Neighbor Authority Improvement Act to amend the 2014 Farm Bill to allow the Forest Services Good Neighbor Authority (GNA) to cover forest management efforts that require road repair, improve forest access, and complete stalled Forest Service projects. The Good Neighbor Authority Improvement Act proactively addresses the need to conduct road repairs in order to complete Forest Service projects in the next few years. This modification also supports ecosystem goals by improving forest health, restoring wildlife and fish habitat, and improving water quality. The legislation was introduced by Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) and is also cosponsored by Senator Ron Johnson (R-WI). Minnesotas forests dont just provide recreational opportunities and environmental benefits. They can also sustain rural economies, said Klobuchar. This bipartisan bill will continue to encourage collaboration between the U.S. Forest Service and state agencies to undertake forest management projects, which will help protect water resources, enhance wildlife habitat, restore forest health, and strengthen our local economies. The Good Neighbor Authority Improvement Act is supported by the Federal Forest Resource Coalition, Forest Resources Association, National Association of State Foresters, Hardwood Federation, Boone and Crockett Club, and the Great Lakes Timber Professionals Association. Klobuchar has urged the U.S. Forest Service to quickly implement Good Neighbor Authority and to use the authority to facilitate approved timber sales that may not be feasible with the agencys current resources and staffing levels. The forest products industry and related sectors have grown to support 40,000 jobs in Minnesota and directly contribute $9.7 billion in economic output. In a letter to the Supervisor of the Superior National For…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/mccollum-condemns-net-neutrality-repeal-announces-intent-co-sponsor-legislation	McCollum Condemns Net Neutrality Repeal, Announces Intent to Co-Sponsor Legislation to Save Net Neutrality	2017-12-14	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Betty McCollum	M001143	mccollum.house.gov	legacy	Congresswoman Betty McCollum (DFL-Minn.) today condemned the Federal Communications Commission’s decision to repeal net neutrality rules and announced her intention to co-sponsor new legislation to overturn the FCC’s decision. “Net neutrality is a cornerstone of a free and open internet. The FCC’s partisan decision to end this basic principle is yet another example of how Republicans are padding the pockets of big corporations at the expense of consumers and small businesses,” Congresswoman McCollum said. Congresswoman McCollum also announced her intention to join Congressman Mike Doyle (D-Pa.) and other House Democrats on legislation to use the Congressional Review Act to overturn the FCC’s decision and restore net neutrality. “Congress has the power to overturn the FCC’s terrible decision, and we should use it,” Congresswoman McCollum said. “I am proud to join House Democrats in support of commonsense legislation to nullify this decision, preserve net neutrality, and save the internet.”	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://nolan.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/democrats-push-to-add-pension-fix-to-spending-bill	Democrats push to add pension fix to spending bill	2017-12-14	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Rick Nolan	N000127	nolan.house.gov	legacy	Top Democrats joined with the International Brotherhood of Teamsters on Wednesday to demand that the government spending bill include rescues for struggling pension plans such as the Teamsters' Central States plan. "At the same time that we are doing a $1.5 trillion tax cut for the rich we ought to be able to find a few billions for workers' pensions," Rep. Bobby Scott, D-Va., said at a rally Wednesday on Capitol Hill hosted by the Teamsters. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., and House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., were among those who attended the event. Democrats said they were making pension plan rescues one of the demands for reaching a deal with the Republican leadership on the spending package. "Leader Schumer and Speaker Pelosi have made it clear to the president and the Republican leadership that the end-of-the-year spending bill has got to include the Butch Lewis Act," said Rep. Rick Nolan, D-Minn., referring to the main legislative vehicle to aid ailing pension funds. The legislation, authored by Sen Sherrod Brown, D-Ohio, would direct the Treasury Department to loan funds to ailing plans at very low interest rates. Pelosi did not guarantee success however, saying instead that "we will try" to add the legislation at every opportunity. A short-term government funding bill runs out Dec. 22. Many pension programs, especially multiemployer ones, are drastically underfunded. Thomas Reeder, director of the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation, told a congressional panel last month that pension premiums paid into his organization had been "too low for too long" to insure the nation's pension plans. The PBGC's multiemployer plan covers 10 million workers and retirees in about 1,400 plans. It has liabilities of $67.3 billion but assets of just $2.3 billion to cover them. One of the most troubled is the Teamsters Central States fund, which was listed as in "critical and declining status" earlier this year by the Labor Department. The maximum a person can receive from the PBGC should a plan f…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=9346E5A8-929B-4B61-A00F-7F535D485133	Klobuchar Requests Additional Information Regarding Department of Justice Review of Guidelines on Subpoenas for News Organizations	2017-12-14	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Amy Klobuchar	K000367	www.klobuchar.senate.gov	legacy	The Department’s current guidelines, which were last updated in 2015, protect reporters engaged in “newsgathering activities” from being prosecuted for doing their job; The 2015 revisions also expand high-level review, including review by the Attorney General, to enforce a subpoena against a media organization In a letter to Attorney General Jeff Sessions, Klobuchar expresses concerns about any potential action to weaken the existing protections for journalists in light of their previous exchanges before the Judiciary Committee this year WASHINGTON, DC — U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar has requested additional information regarding the Department of Justice’s review of its guidelines on subpoenas for news organizations. The Department’s current guidelines, which were last updated in 2015, protect reporters engaged in “newsgathering activities” from being prosecuted for doing their job. The 2015 revisions also expand high-level review, including review by the Attorney General, to enforce a subpoena against a media organization. In a letter to Attorney General Jeff Sessions, Klobuchar expresses concerns about any potential action to weaken the existing protections for journalists in light of their previous exchanges before the Judiciary Committee this year. “I write to request additional information regarding the Department of Justice’s review of its guidelines on subpoenas for news organizations, which was announced in August…I am particularly concerned about any potential action to weaken the existing protections for journalists in light of our previous exchanges before the Judiciary Committee this year,” Klobuchar wrote. “At the same time, you acknowledged in your confirmation hearing that ‘there is a broadly recognized and proper deference to the news media’ within the Department with respect to protections for journalists, and it is my hope that that same appreciation for the media’s role is seriously considered as part of the Department’s current effort.” During his confirmation hearing and at a Judiciary C…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=9CAFF7B4-E736-414B-A54D-6633B29E8E50	Klobuchar Statement on Net Neutrality Vote	2017-12-14	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Amy Klobuchar	K000367	www.klobuchar.senate.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, DC U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) today released the following statement on the Federal Communications Commissions net neutrality vote. As a strong supporter of a free and open internet, I am opposed to the Federal Communications Commissions vote to eliminate net neutrality rules. These important protections prevent internet service providers from blocking, slowing and prioritizing web traffic. This vote will harm consumers, particularly in rural areas. It will limit competition. And it will hurt small business entrepreneurship and innovation. I will continue to push for a free and open internet. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://collinpeterson.house.gov/press-release/peterson-statement-governor-dayton%E2%80%99s-decision-appoint-lt-governor-tina-smith-us-senate	Peterson statement on Governor Daytons decision to appoint Lt. Governor Tina Smith to the U.S. Senate	2017-12-13	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Collin Peterson	P000258	collinpeterson.house.gov	legacy	Congressman Collin C. Peterson made the following statement today after Minnesota Governor Mark Dayton appointed Lt. Governor Tina Smith to the U.S. Senate. “I’ve had the opportunity to get to know Lt. Governor Smith over the years and she has always been attentive to issues important to Greater Minnesota,” Peterson said. “In addition to her experience as Lieutenant Governor, she is a good shot, taking a pheasant at my Pheasant Hunt. I look forward to working with her in her new role as U.S. Senator for the people of Minnesota.”	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://ellison.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/ellison-statement-on-us-senate-appointment	Ellison Statement on U.S. Senate Appointment	2017-12-13	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Keith Ellison	E000288	ellison.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON — After Minnesota Gov. Mark Dayton announced his appointment of Lt. Gov Tina Flint Smith to the U.S. Senate, Rep. Keith Ellison issued the following statement: "Congratulations to my friend Tina Flint Smith on her appointment to the U.S. Senate. Tina is a progressive champion who will be an extraordinary senator for the people of Minnesota. From expanding broadband access in rural areas to investing in early childhood education, Tina has always put working people ahead of special interests, and that’s what she’ll do in the Senate. I look forward to working with her to protect health care, stand for respect for all, and fight for Minnesota families. Tina Smith is the right person at the right time and has my full support both now and when she runs in the 2018 special election.”	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://ellison.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-ellison-on-hr-435-passage-in-financial-services-committee	Rep. Ellison on H.R. 435 Passage in Financial Services Committee	2017-12-13	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Keith Ellison	E000288	ellison.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON—Rep. Keith Ellison (D-MN) issued the following statement after a bill he authored, The Credit Access and Inclusion Act, passed in Financial Services Committee by a unanimous vote of 60-0: “Right now, we have a credit system stacked against working families. Even if someone makes nine out of every ten bill payments on time, only the one missed payment is usually recorded on someone’s credit score. This negative-only bias of credit reporting results in people receiving scores that do not accurately reflect their ability and willingness to pay loans. "More than 50 million Americans have no credit information, outdated information or too few credit lines to score. Those without a credit score pay more for insurance and deposits and may be unable to rent a house or get a loan. That’s a serious problem, and this bill helps to fix it. By fixing existing regulations, this bill helps people with no credit history as well as people across the country who deserve higher credit scores than they are currently stuck with. It is my hope that as this bill moves forward, housing providers and telecom and utility firms can easily help their customers build an accurate credit score by getting credit for paying the bills they already pay regularly.”	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/peterson-klobuchar-walz-mccollum-nolan-emmer-and-ellison-urge-us-customs	Peterson, Klobuchar, Walz, McCollum, Nolan, Emmer, and Ellison urge U.S. Customs and Border Patrol to initiate a pilot program in border crossing technology and to delay the reduction in service hours at the Lancaster and Roseau Ports of Entry	2017-12-13	2017	2017-12	Republican	House	MN	Tom Emmer	E000294	emmer.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON D.C. Congressman Collin C. Peterson led a bipartisan letter with Senator Amy Klobuchar, Rep. Tim Walz, Rep. Betty McCollum, Rep. Rick Nolan, Rep. Tom Emmer, and Rep. Keith Ellison urging U.S. Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) to delay the announced reduction of service hours in Lancaster and Roseau Ports of Entry (POEs), and to create a pilot program using proven technology to increase service for non-commercial crossings at those sites. CBP surprised residents living in northwest Minnesota by announcing they would be dramatically reducing service hours in the Lancaster and Roseau POEs and shift officers to Pembina, ND. Residents attending town halls voiced their strong objections to the reduction of service citing concerns about the impact it would have on the regions economy. In the letter, the lawmakers identify the pilot program already underway at the NW Angle as a model for what can be created at the Lancaster and Roseau POEs. We write to urge U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to initiate a pilot program that utilizes existing virtual interview process technology at the Lancaster and Roseau Ports of Entry (POEs) and delay the reduction in service hours until the pilot can be launched. The lawmakers continued, with slight infrastructure improvements, Lancaster and Roseau POEs will be able to safely and efficiently process passenger vehicles twenty-four hours a day without rerouting them through inconvenient ports in Pembina or Warroad. If CBP agrees to expand the use of this technology for these ports of entry, it could have wide-ranging benefits for Minnesota. The benefits of the new technology include establishing an efficient way for area residents and tourists to check-in with CBP officials remotely while expanding resources for local businesses and resort owners. Current hours of service at the Port of Lancaster are 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. The CBP has announced that they will reduce the hours of service, operating from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. between October 1 and April 30 and 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://franken.senate.gov/?p=press_release&id=3808	Sen. Frankens Statement on Appointment of Lieutenant Governor Tina Smith to Serve as United States Senator for Minnesota	2017-12-13	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Al Franken	F000457	franken.senate.gov	legacy	There are no related items at this time. There are no related items at this time. There are no related items at this time.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/mccollum-statement-appointment-lt-gov-tina-smith-us-senate	McCollum Statement on Appointment of Lt. Gov. Tina Smith to the U.S. Senate	2017-12-13	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Betty McCollum	M001143	mccollum.house.gov	legacy	Congresswoman Betty McCollum (DFL-Minn.) released the following statement on Governor Mark Dayton’s appointment of Lieutenant Governor Tina Smith to serve in the United States Senate: “Lieutenant Governor Tina Smith is an outstanding choice to be Minnesota’s next United States Senator. I have worked with Tina for years — she is a good friend, an incredibly hard worker, and a woman who is totally committed to our state. “Tina will be a fierce advocate for families, work for good jobs, and fight to protect health care for all Minnesotans. I look forward to working with her in Congress to continue building a country where everyone has the opportunity to contribute and succeed.”	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://nolan.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/nolan-introduces-legislation-to-protect-social-security-medicare-and	Nolan Introduces Legislation to Protect Social Security, Medicare, And Medicaid And Calls on Tax Conferees to Uphold President Trumps Promise of No Cuts	2017-12-13	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Rick Nolan	N000127	nolan.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON D.C.] With significant cuts to Medicare providers looming under the pending Republican Tax Bill, U.S. Rep. Rick Nolan today introduced legislation (H.Res.659) intended to protect Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid from any cuts in any bill, joint resolution, amendment, or conference report considered by the House. Rep. Nolan also called on the tax conferees to uphold President Trump’s promise of “no cuts to Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid” in their tax bill negotiations. “The bottom line is, there must be absolutely no cuts to Social Security, Medicare or Medicaid in the tax bill or any bill,” said Nolan. “Americans have earned and paid into these benefit funds through honest hard work, and they deserve every penny that they were promised. I call on House leadership to adopt my resolution right away.” The Nolan resolution, if adopted, would amend House Rule XXI (Restrictions on Certain Bills) by establishing a Point of Order (thus effectively blocking action) on any bill, joint resolution, amendment, amendment between the Houses, or conference report that would (1) result in a reduction of guaranteed benefits scheduled under title II of the Social Security Act; (2) increase either the early or full retirement age for Social Security benefits; (3) privatize Social Security; (4) result in a reduction of guaranteed benefits for individuals entitled to, or enrolled for, benefits under Medicare; or (5) result in a reduction of benefits or eligibility for individuals enrolled in, or eligible to receive medical assistance under Medicaid. The full text of Rep. Nolan’s letter to the tax conferees is copied below: Dear Conferees, Please uphold President Trump’s promise to voters of “no cuts to Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid” as you resolve differences between the chambers on the tax proposal. The threat of these cuts, especially to Medicare, is very real. The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) recently provided an explanation of the impact H.R. 1 and its $1.5 trillion deficit in…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://nolan.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/nolan-statement-on-dayton-appointment-of-tina-smith-to-be-next-minnesota	Nolan Statement on Dayton Appointment of Tina Smith To be Next Minnesota United States Senator	2017-12-13	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Rick Nolan	N000127	nolan.house.gov	legacy	U.S. Rep. Rick Nolan today released the following statement on Governor Dayton’s appointment of Lt. Governor Tina Smith to be the next Minnesota United States Senator: “Tina Smith has proven through her years of public service and recent work as Lt. Governor that she has the credentials, the integrity, and the dedication to improving Minnesotans’ lives that will make her a tremendous Senator for Minnesota. She has my full support and I am confident she will represent Minnesota with distinction in the United States Senate.” ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=855E0B2B-8F95-4C01-A33A-8988CD5D748D	Klobuchar Statement on Governor Dayton’s Senate Appointment	2017-12-13	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Amy Klobuchar	K000367	www.klobuchar.senate.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar today released the following statement on Governor Dayton’s appointment of Lieutenant Governor Tina Smith to the U.S. Senate. “During her years of experience serving our state, Lieutenant Governor Smith has shown herself to be a capable and effective leader who has worked to improve the lives of Minnesotans. She is well-qualified to step into this role and will be ready to hit the ground running. “We have a lot to get done over the next year--from strengthening our infrastructure to reducing the high cost of prescription drugs to ensuring our workers have the skills they need to get good jobs--and I look forward to working with Lieutenant Governor Smith on these critical issues.” ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://paulsen.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=22&itemid=1935	Paulsen Congratulates Edina HS Student for Winning Congressional App Challenge	2017-12-12	2017	2017-12	Republican	House	MN	Erik Paulsen	P000594	paulsen.house.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C.– Congressman Erik Paulsen (MN-03) announced the winner of the 2017 Congressional App Challenge, congratulating Jack Hong, a student at Edina High School. Jack created an app called Pomo Timer, which helps students enhance their productivity by blocking distracting websites on the user’s computer for short periods of time. “Congratulations to Jack Hong on winning the Congressional App Challenge,” said Congressman Paulsen. “America needs talented young programmers and STEM students now more than ever to fill our workforce needs for the future. I’m very impressed with the ingenuity and intellectual curiosity displayed by Jack and everyone who created and submitted an app for consideration.” Congressman Paulsen also recognized Jack and his achievement on the floor of the House of Representatives, as well as runner-up Madeeha Rizvi of Brooklyn Park and Minnetonka Middle School students Zara Thomas and Omar Elamri on earning Honorable Mentions. The apps designed by the challenge’s winners will be featured on a display in the U.S. Capitol in Washington D.C., on house.gov, and on the Congressional App Challenge website. The Congressional App Challenge was created because Congress recognized that STEM and computer-based skills are essential for economic growth and innovation, and that the U.S. has been falling behind on these fronts. By some estimates, the U.S. may be short by as many as a million programmers by 2020. These are high-paying, high-demand jobs. To maintain American competitiveness, it’s crucial that the United States invests in our youth now, and helps them acquire these valuable skills. The Congressional App Challenge encourages students to pursue those skills and recognizes them for their efforts. 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…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://paulsen.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=22&itemid=1936	Paulsen Urges Further Delay of Medical Device Tax	2017-12-12	2017	2017-12	Republican	House	MN	Erik Paulsen	P000594	paulsen.house.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C. – Congressman Erik Paulsen (MN-03) released the following statement regarding the introduction of a five-year delay to the medical device tax. This legislation, H.R. 4617, would repeal the 2.3 percent excise tax included in President Obama’s health care law that applies to the sale of medical device products. “If we want to protect and create more high-paying jobs and if we want to ensure more life-improving and life-saving technologies are available to help patients, we cannot allow the medical device tax to start up again,” said Congressman Paulsen. “This tax should be eliminated and fully repealed, but short of that, we should at least suspend this onerous tax for another five years.” Congressman Paulsen is the chief author of legislation to permanently repeal the medical device tax. In the 114th Congress, Congressman Paulsen helped pass a two-year suspension of the medical device tax with bipartisan support. Unless action is taken, the medical device tax will go back into effect on January 1, 2018. This year, Congressman Paulsen introduced the Protect Medical Innovation Act to permanently repeal the medical device tax. This legislation has broad bipartisan support with 260 cosponsors. 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://ellison.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/letter-to-fcc-chair-to-protect-net-neutrality	Letter to FCC Chair to Protect Net Neutrality	2017-12-12	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Keith Ellison	E000288	ellison.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON—Rep. Keith Ellison (D-MN) and 33 of his Democratic colleagues signed onto the following letter opposing FCC Chairman Ajit Pai's plan to repeal Title II protection for net neutrality:	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-announces-2017-congressional-app-challenge-winner	Emmer Announces 2017 Congressional App Challenge Winner	2017-12-12	2017	2017-12	Republican	House	MN	Tom Emmer	E000294	emmer.house.gov	legacy	Washington D.C. – Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) today announced the winner of the 2017 Congressional App Challenge: “For the past three years, my office has participated in the Congressional App Challenge which aims to encourage middle and high school students from all over the nation to develop their own software application, otherwise known as an app. I am proud that my office has participated in this program since its inception. STEM skills are of vital important to the workforce of tomorrow, and I am glad that students across my district are learning and practicing these important skills. “I want to congratulate this year’s winning team: Jessica Tober, Erika Mork, Ella Mork and Samantha Pieper from Central Middle School in Norwood Young America. Their app, ‘Time Resurrection’ is designed to plan your day, which includes a checklist function for your long list of homework assignments, and a questionnaire to help determine the best time in your schedule to finish your tasks. We congratulate these young Minnesotans and look forward to seeing what they do in the future!”	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/mccollum-writes-nation-human-rights-palestinian-children	McCollum Writes In The Nation on Human Rights for Palestinian Children	2017-12-12	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Betty McCollum	M001143	mccollum.house.gov	legacy	Congresswoman Betty McCollum (DFL-Minn.) wrote in The Nation about her legislation — the Promoting Human Rights by Ending Israeli Military Detention of Palestinian Children Act, H.R. 4391 — that prevents United States tax dollars from supporting the Israeli military’s ongoing detention and mistreatment of Palestinian children. "The Israeli-Palestinian conflict has persisted for decades, including 50 years of Israeli military occupation of Palestinian lands. To help sustain the occupation, Israel’s military and police forces have arrested, interrogated, and imprisoned thousands of Palestinian children, mostly for throwing stones. Israel’s military court and detention system is unique in the world in its systematic incarceration of children, in this case Palestinian children. It is a system that denies basic due-process rights and is cruel, inhumane, and degrading. "It should not require tremendous moral courage to stand up for the human rights of children. Sadly, the exception appears to be when those children are Palestinian. I firmly believe that Palestinian children deserve to be treated with the same humanity, dignity, and human rights as any child anywhere, including children in the United States or Israel. "For Israel, this means honoring its international commitments and ending the widespread and systematic cruel and inhumane treatment of Palestinian children. For the United States, it means prohibiting American funds from being used to support Israel’s abusive military detention of children and requiring the State Department to certify Israel’s compliance. The full text of Congresswoman McCollum's op-ed can be found here. Resources on H.R. 4391 and the Congresswomna's work to promote human rights for Palestinian children can be found here.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=408569AA-B36F-458E-B262-F37B4DAC626B	Klobuchar, Peters to Federal Communications Commission: Order to Repeal Net Neutrality Protections Would “Take Us in the Wrong Direction”	2017-12-12	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Amy Klobuchar	K000367	www.klobuchar.senate.gov	legacy	Minnesota and Michigan are home to hundreds of thousands of small businesses; Without strong net neutrality protections small businesses and startups will face new barriers to compete in the online marketplace In a letter to Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Ajit Pai, Klobuchar and Peters express their opposition to the recently released draft order to eliminate net neutrality protections; The senators also call on the FCC to focus its efforts on closing the digital divide rather than creating an online environment in which the success of small businesses and consumers is at the mercy of large internet service providers who are not bound to the doctrine of a free and open internet WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Gary Peters (D-MI), members of the Senate Commerce Committee, have said that the order to repeal net neutrality protections would “take us in the wrong direction.” Minnesota and Michigan are home to hundreds of thousands of small businesses. Without strong net neutrality protections small businesses and startups will face new barriers to compete in the online marketplace. In a letter to Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Ajit Pai, Klobuchar and Peters express their opposition to the recently released draft order to eliminate net neutrality protections. The senators also call on the FCC to focus its efforts on closing the digital divide rather than creating an online environment in which the success of small businesses and consumers is at the mercy of large internet service providers who are not bound to the doctrine of a free and open internet. “As members of the Senate Commerce Committee and strong supporters of an open internet, we write to express our opposition to the recently released draft order to eliminate net neutrality protections. Net neutrality is critical to the competitiveness of our economy and the health of small businesses and startups,” the senators wrote. “Both Minnesota and Michigan are home to hundreds of thousands of sma…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://collinpeterson.house.gov/rep-petersons-newsletter-1282017	Rep. Peterson's Newsletter 12/8/2017	2017-12-11	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Collin Peterson	P000258	collinpeterson.house.gov	legacy	2017 National Christmas Tree Dear Friends, This week the House of Representatives passed a two-week Continuing Resolution as a stop-gap measure to keep the government funded. It is time that we worked together to create a bipartisan long-term funding solution that keeps our country running. Too many critical programs rely on our federal budget to allow partisan bickering to halt these deliberations. I will continue to work with all my colleagues to reach a deal that puts the American people first. Sincerely, Congressman Collin C. Peterson Minnesota 7th District International Franchise Association This week, I met with members of the International Franchise Association to discuss tax legislation. At the same, I was awarded the Franchise Small Business Award for my efforts to promote a strong economy for small businesses. I will keep working to ensure our local businesses have efficient and responsible assistance to keep growing. Western Peanut Growers On Thursday, I met with representatives from the Western Peanut Growers. We discussed the swings in their market over the last couple of years as well as their priorities for the farm bill. Although the peanut program has been working well, the trouble with cotton has spilled over into peanuts. Farm policy needs to function for all commodities and I'm working to make sure that it does. National Restaurant Association This week, I met with Cicely Simpson of the National Restaurants Association to discuss issues that impact restauranteurs and franchises. We discussed how changes to the tax code would affect their operations as well as a few recent votes related to the food service industry. I am happy to keep working in Congress to create a more business-friendly environment so industries like the restaurant industry can keep serving consumers across Minnesota. USDA Farm Service Agency Last week, I met with senior staff from USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) and from Secretary Perdue’s office to talk about plans to reform and simplify the Conservation Reserve…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://jasonlewis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=127	Lewis welcomes long called-for Pentagon Audit	2017-12-11	2017	2017-12	Republican	House	MN	Jason Lewis	L000587	jasonlewis.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Jason Lewis (MN-02) issued the following statement after the Department of Defense (DOD) Comptroller David Norquist announced the start of an audit of the Pentagon, something Lewis has long called for and has introduced legislation to mandate: “Our men and women in the field need the right resources, and without an audit of the DOD it’s been impossible to know whether its multi-billion dollar budget was being spent responsibly. I’m glad to see an audit finally beginning (as has been in law since 1990). I’ve been calling for this since my arrival in Congress, with my Defense Spending Accountability Act and language in the House Budget highlighting the importance of the audit. “It’s important that we use what we learn from an audit to reduce waste and make the Pentagon much more accountable to the people it serves. Military readiness doesn’t equal spending for spending’s sake. We can have the best military in the world and tackle our national debt simultaneously, and I look forward to the results of the audit helping to guide the government in making progress on both of these important goals.” Background: The Government Accountability Office (GAO) has placed DOD on the High Risk List since 1995. This means DOD has had sustained and uncorrected deficiencies, on a massive scale, in their financial management. As GAO has stated, this has hindered the DOD’s ability to make sound and financially prudent decisions. This not only wastes taxpayer dollars, it also makes it harder to ensure military readiness. The Washington Post reported that the Pentagon buried a report that showed $125 billion in administrative waste- read it here. This is the first-ever audit of the DOD’s $2.4 trillion in assets. Lewis’ H.R. 2040, the Defense Spending Accountability Act, can be read here. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://nolan.house.gov/the-monday-report/six-big-things	Six BIG Things	2017-12-11	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Rick Nolan	N000127	nolan.house.gov	legacy	Six Big Things You Need to Know About Congressman Rick Nolan’s Position on Mining in Northern Minnesota Mining will never, ever be permitted in the BWCA. And as an original cosponsor of the legislation that established the BWCA, I will never support any bill, or any project - mining or otherwise - that could damage this precious and pristine national treasure. Dear Friend, We have the brains, the technology and the ability to protect our precious environment here in Minnesota and create good paying mining jobs for generations to come. Fear and misinformation must not be permitted to misrepresent the facts about our efforts to preserve and protect the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCA) – or legislation in Congress that would remove some barriers to copper and nickel mining on Minnesota’s Iron Range where these activities are permitted by law. Here are the facts in a nutshell: 1. There can be NO mining in the BWCA – EVER! Mining will never, ever be permitted in the BWCA. And as an original cosponsor of legislation that established the BWCA, I will never support any bill, or any project – mining or otherwise – that could damage those precious and pristine national treasures. 2. My Superior National Forest Land Exchange bill won’t affect the BWCA in any way – and does not interfere with any state or federal agencies that must approve the PolyMet mining project before it can go forward. Whether or not the PolyMet mining project is ever approved, the land exchange is a good deal for taxpayers who get more valuable land, more timber, more lakeshore, more wild rice waters, more wetlands and more access to recreation and enjoyment. 3. The MINER bill, which I supported in the House, does not allow mining or mining exploration in the BWCA. And it specifically requires rigorous environmental review of any mining leases issued under its provisions. Here is the language in the bill pertaining to the BWCA: “Nothing in this section may be construed as permitting the prospecting for development and uti…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=52AEE817-ACB9-40BF-8455-730098DD91C4	Klobuchar, Young, Blunt Encourage Ethiopian Prime Minister to Honor Adoptions	2017-12-11	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Amy Klobuchar	K000367	www.klobuchar.senate.gov	legacy	The Ethiopian government’s decision to halt international adoptions left more than 200 U.S. families — including the Nortons of St. Louis Park — in a difficult and heartbreaking position; After Klobuchar successfully pushed to secure visas for the Nortons’ sons, she met with the family to celebrate their reunion in October WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and a bipartisan group of senators urged the Prime Minister of Ethiopia to honor more than 200 international adoptions that have been halted by the Ethiopian government. In a letter to Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn, Klobuchar, along with Senators Todd Young (R-IN) and Roy Blunt (R-MO), encouraged the Prime Minister to lift newly placed restrictions on pending adoptions. The Ethiopian government’s decision to halt international adoptions left more than 200 U.S. families — including David and Katie Norton of St. Louis Park — in a difficult and heartbreaking position. Senator Klobuchar successfully helped them receive the necessary documents to apply for a U.S. visa, allowing the Nortons to bring home their two sons in early August. Klobuchar met with the family to celebrate their reunion in October. “There are more than 200 cases in which American families have pending adoptions in various phases of completion,” the senators wrote. “We believe that Ethiopia’s pursuit of new adoption legislation must not prevent children who have already been matched with adoptive families from having the opportunity to complete their adoptions according to the law under which they were initiated.” In May, Senator Young and the co-chairs of the Senate's Adoption Caucus, Senators Klobuchar and Blunt, led a letter signed by 122 members of Congress to Prime Minister Desalegn urging the nation to reconsider its decision to halt international adoptions. Their action helped unite dozens of families whose adoptions had been finalized but the children were not being allowed to leave the country. Today’s letter seeks to help the remaining children and their w…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-legislation-ensure-care-vulnerable-mothers-and-children-passes-0	Emmer Legislation to Ensure Care for Vulnerable Mothers and Children Passes House	2017-12-08	2017	2017-12	Republican	House	MN	Tom Emmer	E000294	emmer.house.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) released the following statement regarding today’s passage of H.J. Res 123: “Today, the House passed language from the CHIP Stability Act (H.R. 4515) that I introduced with Rep. Costello (PA-06). This provision allows for CHIP funding through the end of the year to bring certainty and much needed support for thousands of Minnesotans. I am proud to be a voice for the individuals who depend on CHIP and will continue to fight on behalf of Minnesota families.” Click here to watch video ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://collinpeterson.house.gov/press-release/peterson-statement-senator-franken%E2%80%99s-resignation	Peterson statement on Senator Frankens resignation	2017-12-07	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Collin Peterson	P000258	collinpeterson.house.gov	legacy	Congressman Collin C. Peterson made the following statement after Senator Franken’s decision to resign from the Senate. “The behavior described in these continued allegations is out of line and unacceptable. Senator Franken is making the right choice by resigning,” Peterson said.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://ellison.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/ellison-statement-on-sen-al-frankens-resignation	Ellison Statement on Sen. Al Franken's Resignation	2017-12-07	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Keith Ellison	E000288	ellison.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON – Following Sen. Al Franken's decision to resign from the U.S. Senate, Rep. Keith Ellison issued the following statement: "I commend the brave women who have come forward in recent weeks to share their experience of sexual harassment and assault. Their courage is immense, and has sparked a long overdue national reckoning with persistent inequities and injustices in our society. "I am grateful for Al Franken’s progressive record of accomplishment over the years—from his forceful advocacy for a free and open internet, to his important work helping to shape the Affordable Care Act, to his support for policies that improve the lives of women, including championing the Violence Against Women Act. Still, as elected officials, we must stand for safe communities and work environments for everyone. Sen. Franken's decision to resign shows a strength of character that other elected officials haven’t. Al’s decision is the right one, and will bring us one step closer towards a society of true justice and equality for all."	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-statement-franken-resignation	Emmer Statement on Franken Resignation	2017-12-07	2017	2017-12	Republican	House	MN	Tom Emmer	E000294	emmer.house.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) released the following statement regarding the resignation of Senator Al Franken: “I am pleased Senator Franken made the right decision for the great state of Minnesota and our country. Elected officials hold the trust of the constituents they represent, and it is crucial we cherish and honor that trust. I am hopeful this will move our society towards better behavior.” ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://franken.senate.gov/?p=press_release&id=3807	Sen. Frankens Speech on the Senate Floor	2017-12-07	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Al Franken	F000457	franken.senate.gov	legacy	Today, U.S. Senator Al Franken gave the following speech as prepared for delivery on the Senate floor. You can also download a video of the speech here. A couple of months ago, I felt that we had entered an important moment in the history of this country. We were finally beginning to listen to women about the ways in which men's actions affect them. That moment was long overdue. I was excited for that conversation, and hopeful that it would result in real change that made life better for women all across the country and in every part of our society. Then, the conversation turned to me. Over the last few weeks, a number of women have come forward to talk about how they felt my actions had affected them. I was shocked. I was upset. But in responding to their claims, I also wanted to be respectful of that broader conversation, because all women deserve to be heard, and their experiences taken seriously. I think that was the right thing to do. I also think it gave some people the false impression that I was admitting to doing things that, in fact, I haven't done. Some of the allegations against me are simply not true. Others, I remember very differently. I said at the outset that the Ethics Committee was the right venue for these allegations to be heard, and investigated, and evaluated on their merits. That I was prepared to cooperate fully. And that I was confident in the outcome. You know, an important part of the conversation we've been having the last few months has been about how men abuse their power and privilege to hurt women. I am proud that, during my time in the Senate, I have used my power to be a champion for women - and that I have earned a reputation as someone who respects the women I work alongside every day. I know there's been a very different picture of me painted over the last few weeks. But I know who I really am. Serving in the United States Senate has been the great honor of my life. I know in my heart that nothing I have done as a Senator - nothing - has brought dishonor on …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://jasonlewis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=126	Lewis continues to advocate for our kids	2017-12-07	2017	2017-12	Republican	House	MN	Jason Lewis	L000587	jasonlewis.house.gov	legacy	Lewis continues to advocate for our kids f t # e Washington, December 7, 2017 WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Jason Lewis (MN-02) issued the following statement after voting for a short-term Continuing Resolution funding the government and ensuring Minnesota has the federal resources to maintain Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) coverage: “This is my second vote to renew CHIP and stand up for our kids- and yet the Senate still has not acted. Their inaction does a disservice to families in Minnesota. This is urgent, and that’s why the House is again moving to provide the important resources and flexibility Minnesota needs for children’s health care. “As with CHIP, the House has already passed each of the appropriations bills to fund the government for 2018. The Senate has yet to act on these either. That’s why I supported a short-term extension while we work to address government funding for the coming year.” ### f t # e	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/mccollum-statement-resignation-senator-al-franken	McCollum Statement on Resignation of Senator Al Franken	2017-12-07	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Betty McCollum	M001143	mccollum.house.gov	legacy	Congresswoman Betty McCollum (DFL-Minn.) released the following statement on the resignation of Senator Al Franken: “Today is a sad day for Minnesota. Senator Al Franken has been more than a colleague — he has been a friend and an ally on the issues that are most important to Minnesota families. Al’s voice and vote were instrumental in extending health care to millions of Americans, helping our students succeed, and upholding our commitments to tribal nations. “As we move forward, I know that Governor Mark Dayton will appoint a qualified person to serve Minnesotans in the Senate. I look forward to working with our new Senator to help Minnesota families and stand up to President Trump and the Republicans’ divisive agenda.”	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://nolan.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/house-democrats-take-issue-with-big-mergers	House Democrats Take Issue With Big Mergers	2017-12-07	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Rick Nolan	N000127	nolan.house.gov	legacy	A bill that would direct antitrust agencies to study the impact of mergers marks the first legislative step of the newly-formed House Antitrust Caucus and underscores how cracking down on corporate consolidation is a growing issue for congressional Democrats. The effort comes in the wake of major mergers, like Amazon.com and Whole Foods Market Inc., that some advocates said would hurt workers and competition. The legislation, which doesn’t yet have a bill number, was introduced Dec. 4 by seven Democrats. It would require the Federal Trade Commission and Department of Justice to assess a merger’s effect on price and quality of products, along with job cuts and pay. It’s intended to “curb the harmful effects of corporate monopolization on working people,” said the bill’s lead sponsor, Rep. Keith Ellison (D-Minn.), in a statement. Ellison is also deputy chairman of the Democratic National Committee, and the bill is likely to function as a campaign tool as well as an attempt to amend antitrust law. So far, the measure has no Republican cosponsors. Even if it doesn’t go anywhere, Democrats can point to it as an effort to address their constituents’ concerns about big companies. The other sponsors are David Cicilline (D-R.I.), Ro Khanna (D-Calif.), Mark Pocan (D-Wis.), Rick Nolan (D-Minn.), Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.), and Raúl Grijalva (D-Ariz.). Five Mergers a Year The bill would require the FTC and the DOJ antitrust division to select at least five mergers a year for analysis. Antitrust officials already conduct merger retrospectives, but their analyses are narrowly targeted on price effects and quality and don’t focus on factors like salaries and job losses. The bill would require the regulators’ reviews to also take into account the effectiveness of divestitures or other remedies, facility closures and job cuts resulting from the merger, any changes in employee salaries, and the deal’s impact on investment in research and development. Those results also would be made public under the bill. Some of the sponsors are…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://walz.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/walz-statement-on-senator-franken	Walz Statement on Senator Franken	2017-12-07	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Tim Walz	W000799	walz.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Tim Walz (MN-01) released the following statement concerning Senator Franken: “Like many Minnesotans, I have been deeply disappointed by the serious allegations against Senator Franken. I have served with Senator Franken for eight years in the U.S. Congress and he has accomplished a lot of good for Minnesotans. But I believe the pattern of his behavior is unacceptable and his ability to continue to effectively serve Minnesotans has been irreparably compromised. For the good of Minnesotans and the American people, I believe Senator Franken has made the right decision in stepping aside.” ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=A5C80467-5C7E-4286-9920-3F9FC0ABD099	Klobuchar Statement on the Resignation of Senator Al Franken	2017-12-07	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Amy Klobuchar	K000367	www.klobuchar.senate.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar today released the following statement on the resignation of Senator Al Franken: “Today Senator Franken acknowledged that he could no longer serve in the Senate and resigned. As he and I discussed yesterday, this is the right decision. Senator Franken has worked for years on behalf of the people of Minnesota and he has been a leader on issues that are fundamental to Americans’ lives, including education, privacy, healthcare and mental health. He has been a friend to me and to many in our state. “As the women who have come forward to tell their stories across America have made clear, sexual harassment is never acceptable. In every workplace in America, including the U.S. Senate, we must confront the challenges of harassment and misconduct. Nothing is easy or pleasant about this, but we all must recognize that our workplace cultures—and the way we treat each other as human beings—must change. “For Franni, the Franken family, Senator Franken’s friends and supporters in our state, it’s a very tough day. I want you to know I remain as committed as ever to working together and standing up for people, for common decency, and for our democracy during an incredibly difficult and divisive time in our country. And as we go forward together, we must never forget the words of Senator Paul Wellstone, whom Senator Franken quoted in part today, ‘Politics is not about power. Politics is not about money. Politics is not about winning for the sake of winning. Politics is about the improvement of people’s lives.’” ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://ellison.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-ellison-on-trump-s-decision-to-recognize-jerusalem-as-the-capital-of	Rep. Ellison on Trumps Decision to Recognize Jerusalem as the Capital of Israel	2017-12-06	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Keith Ellison	E000288	ellison.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON—Rep. Keith Ellison (D-MN) issued the following statement in response to President Trump’s decision to recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel: “President Trump’s decision today to recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel impedes the Israel-Palestine peace process, jeopardizes the safety of U.S. personnel stationed abroad, and seriously limits the U.S.’s ability to serve as an effective broker in the future. Trump irresponsibly broke with decades of precedent in order to fulfill a dangerous campaign promise, and did so despite the warnings of leaders around the world. This White House continues to play politics with issues of national security and international peace, and its reckless decision making should concern us all.”	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://jasonlewis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=125	Lewis supports the right to self-defense for law-abiding citizens	2017-12-06	2017	2017-12	Republican	House	MN	Jason Lewis	L000587	jasonlewis.house.gov	legacy	Lewis supports the right to self-defense for law-abiding citizens f t # e Washington, December 6, 2017 WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Jason Lewis (MN-02) issued the following statement after voting to support the Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act, H.R. 38, as it passed the House today including the Fix National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) Act: “Families in Minnesota have the right to feel secure. The Constitution gives, and the Supreme Court has upheld in two recent decisions, an individual right to bear arms. For many, a concealed carry permit is a way to feel secure wherever they go- and in fact, women are the fastest-growing group of applicants for these permits. “Your right to be safe, just like to drive, doesn’t end at the state line with arbitrary limits on travel. If you are a law-abiding citizen with a permit for a concealed carry- and you’d have to comply with a host state’s laws- you shouldn’t have to turn around every time you reach the bridge to Wisconsin. And to make sure that criminals and bad actors aren’t able to get these permits, we also ensure our background check system has the most accurate and up-to-date information from government agencies and the states. “This protects the right of responsible Minnesotans to self-defense wherever they are.” ### f t # e	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/mccollum-statement-president-trumps-recognition-jerusalem-israel-s-capital	McCollum Statement on President Trump's Recognition of Jerusalem as Israels Capital	2017-12-06	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Betty McCollum	M001143	mccollum.house.gov	legacy	Congresswoman Betty McCollum (DFL-Minn.) released the following statement after it was reported that President Donald Trump will recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel and begin the process of relocating the U.S. Embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem: “President Donald Trump’s decision to extend American recognition to Jerusalem as the capital of Israel is an unnecessary and irresponsible act designed solely to appease the most extreme ideologues in Israel and the United States. The President is willfully abdicating the United States’ role as a peacemaker in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, ending any hope of a two-state solution with East Jerusalem as the capital of a Palestinian state. “President Trump’s decision sabotages relations with the Palestinians, threatens to stoke even more conflict in the Middle East, and further embarrasses the United States in the world.”	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/mccollum-statement-senator-al-franken	McCollum Statement on Senator Al Franken	2017-12-06	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Betty McCollum	M001143	mccollum.house.gov	legacy	Congresswoman Betty McCollum (DFL-Minn.) released the following statement on Senator Al Franken: “The allegations against Senator Al Franken make it impossible for him to be an effective Senator for Minnesota. When he makes his announcement tomorrow, I have every confidence that he will do the right thing for Minnesota and our country.”	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://nolan.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/congressmans-view-tax-bill-mercedes-for-the-rich-hubcaps-for-the-middle	Congressman's View: Tax bill: Mercedes for the rich, hubcaps for the middle class	2017-12-06	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Rick Nolan	N000127	nolan.house.gov	legacy	Each of these aspects of the bill is terrible in its own right. But combined, they constitute nothing less than a scam of historic proportions upon the American people. At the heart of the Republican tax bill is the age-old myth of so-called "trickle-down economics." Reward the rich, so goes the argument, and they will create more jobs and higher wages for the middle class. But the truth is, trickle-down economics has never worked. If you give the average CEO extra revenue, he or she is far more likely to hold onto that extra money than to create jobs or raise wages with it. In fact, according to 2017 Federal Reserve data, corporate America is hoarding a record nearly $2.3 trillion of cash. What's more, the National Bureau of Economic Research published a study that found "little evidence that corporate tax cuts boost economic activity" unless implemented in a recession. Any way you look at it, this tax bill disproportionately rewards the rich and gives the middle class almost nothing. It reminds me of what U.S. Sen. Ted Kennedy once said about a past Republican tax plan: If you're a CEO, this plan hands you enough money to buy a Mercedes, but if you're a teacher or a nurse or a retail employee, it only gives you enough to buy a hubcap. Working families shouldn't be left standing on the side of the road, holding a hubcap while the super rich roll by in their fleet of Mercedes. If that's not bad enough, millions of middle-class families actually would see their taxes increase under the Republican tax bill. According to the nonpartisan Joint Committee on Taxation, up to 16 million Americans would see their taxes go up under this plan. This increase would be partially due to the number of tax exemptions Republicans plan to repeal. For instance, the House Republican bill, which I voted against, would repeal the deduction for medical expenses like surgeries and vision care, meaning that chronically ill patients and their families could be hit hard with higher costs. The House bill also would prev…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://nolan.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/nolan-calls-on-congressional-leadership-to-find-immediate-fix-to-pension	Nolan Calls on Congressional Leadership to Find Immediate Fix to Pension Crisis In End-of-Year Budget Meeting with President Trump	2017-12-06	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Rick Nolan	N000127	nolan.house.gov	legacy	[WASHINGTON D.C.] Rep Rick Nolan today called on Congressional leadership to find an immediate fix to the pension crisis as part of the end-of-year budget negotiations with President Trump. In his letter, Rep. Nolan pressed for solutions such as the President establishing a Pension Rehabilitation Administration within the Treasury Department that would help retirees received their full hard-earned pension benefits. “The bottom line is, we must not gut the pensions of the hardworking people in this country who contributed to – and earned – every penny of their pensions,” Nolan wrote. “I urge you to discuss pragmatic, fair-minded solutions to fix the pension crisis that do not force retirees to bear the burden of the pension deficit.” Rep. Nolan’s letter urges Congressional leadership to make the right decision to prioritize the retirees’ pension funds, and not repeat the mistake made in past budget negotiations of gutting retirees’ earned pension benefits. In 2014, the Multiemployer Pension Reform Act of 2014, an 11th-hour, last-ditch provision to the omnibus spending bill, gave the Treasury Department the ability to gut promised pension benefits for retirees. Rep. Nolan voted against this legislation in 2014 and urged Congressional leadership to find a new solution that protects retirees and their hard-earned pensions. In addition to calling for a fix to the pension crisis, Rep. Nolan’s letter also called for strong investments in domestic human development, public health, and infrastructure in the upcoming budget. The full letter is copied below. Dear Leader McConnell, Leader Schumer, Speaker Ryan, and Leader Pelosi: I urge you to press for an immediate fix to America’s pension crisis in your planned bipartisan, bicameral FY2018 budget meeting with President Trump tomorrow. This issue is a key priority both to my constituents in Minnesota’s 8th Congressional District and to hardworking Americans across the country. There are a number of proposals on the table that would help prevent the insolve…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://walz.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/walz-statement-on-hr-38	Walz Statement on H.R. 38	2017-12-06	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Tim Walz	W000799	walz.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Tim Walz (MN-01) released the following statement after voting against H.R. 38: “As a 24-year veteran of the Army National Guard, I firmly believe in protecting the rights guaranteed by the Constitution, including an individual’s right to bear arms. I also understand the importance of preserving America’s unique hunting and recreational shooting heritage, as I am an avid sportsman myself. “However, by excluding important protections such as an audit of state guns laws and their impacts on public safety, H.R. 38 fails to ensure our federal laws reflect the needs of the states. This bill would upend each state’s carefully considered judgements about public safety and override determinations made about the specific needs of any given state and its communities. It is for this reason that I cannot support this legislation. “Moreover, I am deeply disappointed that House Republicans have chosen to lump H.R.38 with the Fix NICS Act, a bipartisan bill that aims to ensure domestic violence records are properly and swiftly reported to the National Instant Criminal Background Check System, or NICS. I fully support the provisions of the Fix NICS Act and I am disappointed my Republican colleagues are playing politics with public safety. “Commonsense gun safety and responsible gun ownership can coexist. I will continue to be an advocate for sensible laws that protect our safety while also supporting the Second Amendment rights law-abiding gun owners hold dear.” ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=FAEC3ADF-07C0-4CF1-ADC2-B41EC1B585FF	Statement from Minnesota State Director Ben Hill	2017-12-06	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Amy Klobuchar	K000367	www.klobuchar.senate.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. – The following statement was released today from U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar’s Minnesota State Director, Ben Hill: “Senator Klobuchar personally spoke with Senator Franken this morning. As has been reported, he will be making an announcement tomorrow morning.” ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/mccollum-condemns-ethnic-cleansing-rohingya-urges-resolution-humanitarian	McCollum Condemns Ethnic Cleansing of Rohingya, Urges Resolution to Humanitarian Crisis	2017-12-05	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Betty McCollum	M001143	mccollum.house.gov	legacy	Congresswoman Betty McCollum (DFL-Minn.) delivered the following remarks on the House Floor in support of H. Con. Res. 90, which condemns the ethnic cleansing of the Rohingya in Burma and calls for an end to the attacks in and an immediate restoration of humanitarian access to the state of Rakhine in Burma. Congresswoman McCollum visited Burma and Bangladesh on a Congressional fact-finding mission last month. Video of Congresswoman McCollum's remarks is here. Congresswoman McCollum's full remarks are below: "Mr. Speaker, last month I visited Burma and Bangladesh on a Congressional fact-finding mission. Our visits to refugee camps and our conversations with survivors made it clear that the persecution of the Rohingya people in Burma's Rakhine State is a severe humanitarian crisis that demands robust American leadership. "This resolution is an important first step in demonstrating that Congress will not tolerate human rights abuses against Rohingyas. As our delegation saw, there is a path forward. The Burmese government and military must fully implement the recommendations of former UN Secretary General Kofi Annan's advisory commission. "Burma must work with Bangladesh and the UN for the voluntary repatriation of Rohingya refugees with guarantees of a safe return. A fair process to allow Rohingyas to apply for and secure citizenship must be established. "Finally, there must be an independent investigation to ensure accountability for the atrocities and abuses that have taken place. "Mr. Speaker, I saw people suffering in both Burma and Bangladesh. They are crying out for action. The United States and the international community must help them secure justice."	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=843475B9-8526-4D4E-AE40-91DD5B6BADC2	As Minnesota Prepares to Host Super Bowl LII, Klobuchar Urges the National Football League to Combat Ticket Fraud	2017-12-05	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Amy Klobuchar	K000367	www.klobuchar.senate.gov	legacy	While the ticket marketplace for the Super Bowl has grown more sophisticated through the use of secure online distribution channels and ticket technology, many ticket buyers can still be victims of fraud In a letter to Commissioner Roger Goodell, Klobuchar encourages the NFL to take steps to address common fraud schemes WASHINGTON, DC – Ahead of Super Bowl LII, which will take place in Minneapolis, Minnesota, U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar has urged the National Football League (NFL) to combat ticket fraud. While the ticket marketplace for the Super Bowl has grown more sophisticated through the use of secure online distribution channels and ticket technology, many ticket buyers can still be victims of fraud. In a letter to Commissioner Roger Goodell, Klobuchar encourages the NFL to take steps to address common fraud schemes. “I write to urge the National Football League to take action to combat ticket fraud in advance of Super Bowl LII in Minnesota. As you know, the Super Bowl is one of the largest single-day events in the world,” Klobuchar wrote. “While the ticket marketplace for the Super Bowl has grown more sophisticated through the use of secure online distribution channels and ticket technology, many ticket buyers can still be victims of fraud. As Super Bowl LII approaches, I encourage the NFL to take steps to address common fraud schemes.” “For decades, the NFL has focused on helping fans safely and securely purchase tickets to our games, including for our most popular event – the Super Bowl,” stated Jocelyn Moore, the NFL’s Senior Vice President for Public Policy and Government Affairs. “As we prepare for Super Bowl LII in Minnesota, the NFL will continue to implement technological improvements to deter counterfeiting and looks forward to working closely with Senator Klobuchar as well as local, state, and federal law enforcement to combat ticket fraud and to help protect consumers.” As a member of the Senate Commerce Committee, Klobuchar has been a leader in protecting consumers from ticket bots. Las…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://collinpeterson.house.gov/rep-petersons-newsletter-1212017	Rep. Peterson's Newsletter 12/1/2017	2017-12-04	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Collin Peterson	P000258	collinpeterson.house.gov	legacy	Willmar Dear Friends, This week, I was honored to receive the National Grange Champion of Rural America Award in recognition of my time working with rural communities. I met with the National Biodiesel Board, Organic Trade Association, and the National Association of Conservation Districts to discuss agricultural developments and efforts to promote our rural economy. Finally, I’d like to congratulate Bemidji on their excellent representation of rural communities by winning Minnesota Monthly’s “Best MN Town” contest. Sincerely, Congressman Collin C. Peterson Minnesota 7th District National Grange Champion of Rural America Award On Wednesday, National Grange President Betsy Huber presented me with the organization’s Champion of Rural America Award. The award is presented to elected officials who embody the values of The National Grange. Awardees must demonstrate recognition of the importance of agriculture in our economy and our national security, and have fought to ensure rural Americans have equal access to broadband, quality health care, and excellent educational opportunities. Awardees must also persevere and embody the organization’s core values of faith, hope, charity and fidelity. The State Grange of Minnesota was the first chartered State Grange in the nation, just two years after the founding of the National Grange. The National Grange is celebrating its 150th anniversary this year and I thank them for this honor. National Biodiesel Board I met with members of the National Biodiesel Board, including biodiesel producers from Minnesota, in my Washington, D.C. office this week. The group discussed the critical importance of renewing the biodiesel tax credit for the biodiesel industry and the importance of farm bill programs across a number of titles. National Association of Conservation Districts This week, I met with members of the National Association of Conservation Districts’ (NACD) Executive Board. The NACD checked in on progress of the farm bill and advocated for a strong conservation title. C…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://ellison.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-ellison-introduces-merger-retrospective-act	Rep. Ellison Introduces Merger Retrospective Act	2017-12-04	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Keith Ellison	E000288	ellison.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON—Reps. Keith Ellison (D-MN), David Cicilline (D-RI), Ro Khanna (D-CA), Mark Pocan (D-WI), Rick Nolan (D-MN), Pramila Jayapal (D-WA) and Raúl Grijalva (D-AZ) this morning introduced the Merger Retrospective Act to curb the harmful effects of corporate monopolization on working people. Rep. Ellison’s bill attempts to illuminate the impact of corporate mergers on the American economy by directing the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and Department of Justice (DOJ) to assess each merger’s effect on price, quality, and availability of products and services at the merged firm, as well as employment reduction and worker compensation. “When big companies merge, workers can be laid off in the thousands, prices can go up, and quality can go down for goods and services at the new firm. Decades of lax merger review and antitrust enforcement have helped bring us to a new Gilded Age, where inequality is higher than ever, and a handful of massive corporations control outsized wealth and political power at the expense of the rest of us. This legislation is aimed at reversing a decades-long trend toward concentrating power in our economy.” said Rep. Keith Ellison. “The American people deserve the truth about how mergers affect workers’ wages, layoffs, and lawsuits,” said Rep. Rick Nolan, co-chair of the House Antitrust Caucus. “This legislation is an important step forward towards ensuring transparency in the corporate sector and developing a worker-first approach to American business.” “You don’t have to be a PHD economist to understand that increasing levels of corporate concentration are bad for Americans. When airlines and telecom firms merge, they enrich a handful of executives at a cost of lost jobs, stagnant wages, and reduced service for customers. Monopoly power in big business has been a major cause of income inequality and the hollowing out of the middle class. The Merger Retrospective Act is an important first step towards understanding the true cost of corporate consolidation,” said Rep. Ro Khanna, co-chair …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://franken.senate.gov/?p=press_release&&id=3806	Sen. Franken Presses FCC Chair to Delay Vote to End Net Neutrality Amid Reports of Corrupted Public Comment Period	2017-12-04	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Al Franken	F000457	franken.senate.gov	legacy	In light of reports that computer bots may have unfairly skewed the net neutrality debate, U.S. Senator Al Franken pressed Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Ajit Pai to delay a December 14 vote that would unravel net neutrality safeguards and dramatically alter the internet as we know it. A recent report revealed that computer bots filed hundreds of thousands of comments to the FCC during the net neutrality policymaking process, potentially corrupting the public comment period. In response, Sen. Franken and a group of his colleagues sent a public letter today calling on Chairman Pai to delay the net neutrality vote until an investigation into the matter is conducted. "A free and open Internet is vital to ensuring a level playing field online, and we believe that your proposed action may be based on an incomplete understanding of the public record in this proceeding," wrote Sen. Franken and his colleagues. "In fact, there is good reason to believe that the record may be replete with fake or fraudulent comments, suggesting that your proposal is fundamentally flawed...we are requesting that you delay your planned vote on this item until you can conduct a thorough review of the state of the record and provide Congress with greater assurance of its accuracy and completeness." The letter, which you can read here or below, was led by Sen. Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.). December 4, 2017 The Honorable Ajit Pai Chairman Federal Communications Commission 445 12th Street Southwest Washington, DC 20554 Dear Chairman Pai: We are deeply concerned by your recently released proposal to roll back critical consumer protections by dismantling the Federal Communications Commission's (FCC) current net neutrality rules. A free and open Internet is vital to ensuring a level playing field online, and we believe that your proposed action may be based on an incomplete understanding of the public record in this proceeding. In fact, there is good reason to believe that the record may be replete with fake or fraudulent comments, s…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://franken.senate.gov/?p=press_release&id=3806	Sen. Franken Presses FCC Chair to Delay Vote to End Net Neutrality Amid Reports of Corrupted Public Comment Period	2017-12-04	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Al Franken	F000457	franken.senate.gov	legacy	In light of reports that computer bots may have unfairly skewed the net neutrality debate, U.S. Senator Al Franken pressed Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Ajit Pai to delay a December 14 vote that would unravel net neutrality safeguards and dramatically alter the internet as we know it. A recent report revealed that computer bots filed hundreds of thousands of comments to the FCC during the net neutrality policymaking process, potentially corrupting the public comment period. In response, Sen. Franken and a group of his colleagues sent a public letter today calling on Chairman Pai to delay the net neutrality vote until an investigation into the matter is conducted. "A free and open Internet is vital to ensuring a level playing field online, and we believe that your proposed action may be based on an incomplete understanding of the public record in this proceeding," wrote Sen. Franken and his colleagues. "In fact, there is good reason to believe that the record may be replete with fake or fraudulent comments, suggesting that your proposal is fundamentally flawed...we are requesting that you delay your planned vote on this item until you can conduct a thorough review of the state of the record and provide Congress with greater assurance of its accuracy and completeness." The letter, which you can read here or below, was led by Sen. Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.). December 4, 2017 The Honorable Ajit Pai Chairman Federal Communications Commission 445 12th Street Southwest Washington, DC 20554 Dear Chairman Pai: We are deeply concerned by your recently released proposal to roll back critical consumer protections by dismantling the Federal Communications Commission's (FCC) current net neutrality rules. A free and open Internet is vital to ensuring a level playing field online, and we believe that your proposed action may be based on an incomplete understanding of the public record in this proceeding. In fact, there is good reason to believe that the record may be replete with fake or fraudulent comments, s…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/mccollum-statement-president-trump-s-attack-national-monuments	McCollum Statement on President Trumps Attack on National Monuments	2017-12-04	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Betty McCollum	M001143	mccollum.house.gov	legacy	Congresswoman Betty McCollum (DFL-Minn.), Ranking Member of the House Interior-Environment Appropriations Subcommittee and Democratic co-chair of the Congressional Native American Caucus, released the following statement after President Donald Trump signed an executive order to divide and dramatically shrink the Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monuments: “President Donald Trump has put Native American sacred sites and some of our nation’s most iconic places in the crosshairs of corporations who want to drill and mine on America’s public lands. Once again, President Trump is putting extractive industries before the best interests of the American people. “I am particularly outraged by the elimination of the Bears Ears National Monument. This monument was established with the support of the Zuni, Ute, Ute Mountain Ute, Navajo, and Hopi tribal nations, who petitioned our government to protect more than 100,000 cultural artifacts, sacred sites, and traditional tribal practices by creating this Monument. It is simply unconscionable to open these places that mean so much to our Native American brothers and sisters to oil drilling and uranium mining. “The preservation of places like Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante is the reason the Antiquities Act was established by Congress. President Trump’s decision to strip protections from more than two million acres of public lands is not just wrong — it is almost certainly illegal. I strongly support efforts to challenge President Trump’s abuse of power in court. Americans must keep working to safeguard our public lands and save America’s treasures.”	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://nolan.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/nolan-praises-va-announcement-of-new-veterans-id-card-rollout-in	Nolan Praises VA Announcement of New Veterans ID Card Rollout in Response to His October Letter And Pledges to Assist Veterans With Applications	2017-12-04	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Rick Nolan	N000127	nolan.house.gov	legacy	U.S. Rep Rick Nolan today praised the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs’ announcement of the rollout of an application process for the national Veterans Identification Card (VIC) and pledged to assist Veterans of Minnesota’s 8th District with their applications. This announcement follows the letter sent to the VA in October by Rep. Nolan and ranking Member on the Veterans’ Affairs Committee Tim Walz, which requested an update on the implementation of the rollout of the Veteran’s Identification Card program. This rollout is mandated through the Veteran’s Identification Card Act of 2015, which aims to make it easier for all Veterans to identify themselves to retailers and others. Prior to the enactment of this law, a Veteran who had served a minimum obligated time in service, but who did not meet the retirement or medical discharge threshold, was ineligible to receive an ID. “Veterans deserve recognition and a simple way to identify themselves without carrying around discharge paperwork. I am pleased to see that the VA is making good on its long-overdue promise,” said Nolan. “However, I am aware that the VA’s application website may be currently overloaded due to the high volume of traffic. I will continue to closely monitor the online application process to ensure it runs smoothly and that all deserving Veterans receive their identification cards in a timely manner. I will also work to ensure that Veterans lacking Internet access have an alternate means to register.” To request a VIC, Veterans must visit vets.gov, click on “Apply for Printed Veteran ID Card” on the bottom left of the page and sign in or create an account. Veterans who are having difficulty with the website should contact Rep. Nolan’s nearest office here.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://nolan.house.gov/the-monday-report/not-even-close-309-to-99	Not even close: 309 to 99!	2017-12-04	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Rick Nolan	N000127	nolan.house.gov	legacy	House Overwhelmingly Passes Nolan’s Superior National Forest Land Exchange Bill Bipartisan Margin was 309-99 Under our Superior National Forest Land Exchange bill, taxpayers will receive more lakeshore, more timber, more wild rice waters, and more wetlands for public enjoyment and recreation. Dear Friend, By a huge, bipartisan margin of 309-99, the House last week passed my Superior National Forest Land Exchange bill – a measure to finalize the long-awaited land swap between the U.S. Forest Service and PolyMet Mining. Whether or not a mining project is ever approved, the bill is a big win for taxpayers who get more lakeshore, more timber, more wild rice waters, and 2,000 acres of additional wetlands. In return, the Forest Service is trading public lands already surrounded by old mining sites, with no public access. PolyMet already owns the mining and mineral rights to the acres they would receive. Click on the screen above to hear my speech on the floor of the House explaining our Superior National Forest Land Exchange bill. The map on the screen, which I used to help explain the bill to my colleagues, is directly below. As I explained to my colleagues, the proposed PolyMet mining site is located below the Continental Divide, and the BWCA is located above the divide. And since water doesn’t flow up hill, the PolyMet site is not in the same watershed as the BWCA. Therefore, it is physically and geologically impossible for any water that flows from a PolyMet site to pollute the BWCA waters. Northern Minnesota has the cleanest water in the state – and we are determined to keep it that way. We’ve been mining up here on the Iron Range for more than 130 years, and our waters are the cleanest and purest in the state. Pollution increases dramatically as the Mississippi and other rivers and streams flow south through the Twin Cities. Runoff from farms and factories have even forced some communities in Western Minnesota to pipe in clean drinking water. This map shows how pollution in the Missis…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-continues-efforts-protect-care-vulnerable-mothers-and-children	Emmer Continues Efforts to Protect Care for Vulnerable Mothers and Children	2017-12-01	2017	2017-12	Republican	House	MN	Tom Emmer	E000294	emmer.house.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C. - Today, Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) and Congressman Ryan Costello (PA-06) introduced legislation to provide short-term funding for the Minnesota Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). Emmer and Costello’s responsible stopgap solution, the CHIP Stability Act, helps Minnesota’s most vulnerable while the Senate finishes the job to fund women and children’s health insurance. “Unfortunately, lack of action in the Senate has forced Minnesota to find alternative funding in order to continue coverage for CHIP recipients,” said Emmer. “I am proud to join Rep. Costello to introduce this responsible legislation and urge my colleagues in the Senate to take quick action to pass long-term CHIP reauthorization for Minnesotans and millions of families across the country.” “Nearly 177,000 children in Pennsylvania and millions across the country utilize CHIP, making this a critically important program that we must keep fully operational,” said Rep. Costello. “While it is unfortunate this legislation is necessary, we must bridge the funding gap, and I will continue to push for a long-term reauthorization of the program.” Emmer introduced the State CHIP Flexibility Act last month, which would provide more flexibility and avoid fines to the state for continuing to cover pregnant women under the program. To ensure that pregnant women are covered for the entirety of their nine-month pregnancy, Minnesota opted to carry-over CHIP funds. Unfortunately, current law penalizes state foresight and flexibility, and instead imposes a fine on any state who utilizes carry-over funds. Minnesota is one of just two states in the nation to face this penalty. House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Greg Walden (R-OR) and Subcommittee Chairman Michael Burgess (R-TX) are original co-sponsors of Emmer and Costello’s bill. Additional Resources: Emmer Introduces Legislation to Ensure Care for Vulnerable Mothers and Children (11/16/17) OP-ED: Clock is ticking on plan to fund children's health insurance (11/22/17)	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://jasonlewis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=124	Lewis' College Completion bill included in historic higher education reform	2017-12-01	2017	2017-12	Republican	House	MN	Jason Lewis	L000587	jasonlewis.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Jason Lewis released the following statement after Education & Workforce Committee Chairwoman Foxx introduced the Promoting Real Opportunity, Success, and Prosperity through Education Reform Act, or PROSPER Act, a higher education reauthorization and reform bill that contains Lewis’ H.R. 4336, the College Completion and Success Act: “One of my top priorities is equipping our young people with the skills they need to succeed in the 21st Century economy. With six million unfilled jobs in this country, we clearly need a new approach to higher education that provides additional options in order to meet the needs of both our economy and our students. Many students prefer a two-year or technical qualification that leads straight to a well-paid, skilled job, and we need to make those opportunities more widely available with apprenticeships and work/study programs that give students relevant on-the-job experience. That’s why I was glad to see my dual enrollment amendment already pass the House and give young people the chance to gain practical experience even while in high school. “Regardless of the educational path they choose, we need to make sure students are graduating prepared to thrive in the workforce - and my College Completion and Success Act, included in the PROSPER Act, actually reforms the student aid system so that schools have skin in the game and are incentivized to help them do better. I’m proud to support this bill and look forward to helping these historic reforms become law.” To see a summary of the bill, click here. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/mccollum-statement-flynn-guilty-plea-trump-russia-scandal	McCollum Statement on Flynn Guilty Plea in Trump-Russia Scandal	2017-12-01	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Betty McCollum	M001143	mccollum.house.gov	legacy	Congresswoman Betty McCollum (DFL-Minn.) released the following statement after President Donald Trump’s National Security Adviser Michael Flynn pled guilty to lying to the Federal Bureau of Investigation in the Trump-Russia scandal: “Today’s guilty plea confirms that collusion with Russia reached the highest levels of the White House. The extent of criminal activity and corruption in the Trump-Pence campaign, transition, and administration is becoming increasingly clear. “Every American should be outraged by the fact President Trump’s top advisor was colluding with Russia. No matter where this investigation leads, the Trump-Pence White House cannot wiggle out of responsibility for Flynn’s crimes: President Trump empowered Flynn despite warnings from both President Obama and his own transition team. “Given the Flynn plea, Congress must take action to both protect Special Counsel Robert S. Mueller III from White House interference and to establish a bipartisan, independent commission to examine Russia’s interference in our democracy and Russia’s collusion with the Trump-Pence apparatus.”	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=B1B162DC-CBC4-45F4-B7C4-2521998948FF	Klobuchar Statement on Minnesota Lawsuits Against Opioid Drug Manufacturers and Distributors	2017-12-01	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Amy Klobuchar	K000367	www.klobuchar.senate.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar today released a statement following the announcement that Minnesota county attorneys have announced lawsuits against drug manufacturers and distributors for the public cost of the opioid crisis: “The Minnesota Department of Health reported that 637 Minnesotans died from drug overdoses last year alone—and this crisis is not just in our state, it’s all over the country. Drug manufacturers and distributors spent years misleading the public about the addictive nature of their prescription drugs, contributing to the epidemic that has been officially deemed a public health emergency. These companies should be held accountable for their role in this crisis – and help pay for drug treatment for the people they got addicted.” As a former Hennepin County Attorney, Klobuchar has long led local and national efforts to curb drug abuse and help people overcome addiction. 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 in July 2016, encourages states and local communities to pursue a full array of proven strategies in the fight against opioid addiction. At the end of 2016, $1 billion was made available by Congress to fund the national effort. To build on the monumental first step of CARA, Klobuchar introduced the Prescription Drug Monitoring Act, which would require the use of strong prescription drug monitoring programs (PDMPs) in all states that receive certain federal funding to combat opioid abuse and also requires states to make their PDMP data available to other states. Earlier this year, she and ten other senators introduced the Budgeting for Opioid Addiction Treatment (LifeBOAT) Act, which would establish a reliable funding stream to provide and expand access to substance abuse treatment. She and a bipartisan group of senators also introduced the Synthetic Abuse and Labeling of Toxic S…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=E0566D6C-FCDB-4DCA-BC10-4F5F37981411	Klobuchar Statement on Former National Security Advisor Michael Flynn Guilty Plea	2017-12-01	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	MN	Amy Klobuchar	K000367	www.klobuchar.senate.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar released a statement on the guilty plea by former National Security Advisor Michael Flynn: “This is an important development in the investigation. When the President’s former National Security Advisor pleads guilty to a felony and says he is cooperating with the investigation, it means it is just the beginning and not the end. We must continue letting Special Prosecutor Robert Mueller follow the facts without any interference by Congress or the Administration – we owe it to our democracy. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://paulsen.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=22&itemid=1934	Paulsen Votes to Protect Boundary Waters	2017-11-30	2017	2017-11	Republican	House	MN	Erik Paulsen	P000594	paulsen.house.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C. – Congressman Erik Paulsen (MN-03) released the following statement regarding his opposition to H.R. 3905, which threatens Minnesota’s Boundary Waters Canoe Area by not providing it with the same environmental protections that other National Forests receive. The legislation also tosses aside more than 100,000 public comments and stops a current environmental review of copper-sulfide mining. And, it would weaken the Antiquities Act, a conservation tool used on a bipartisan basis by 16 presidents since 1906 to protect our nation’s history. “The Boundary Waters is Minnesota’s Yellowstone, and as a national treasure, its waters need to be protected,” said Congressman Paulsen. “I want to make sure the Boundary Waters is preserved for future generations to enjoy without compromising standard environmental practices or its natural beauty.” Congressman Paulsen spoke on H.R. 3905 on the House floor, which can be seen here. 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://collinpeterson.house.gov/event/us-capitol-christmas-tree-lighting	U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree Lighting	2017-11-30	2017	2017-11	Democrat	House	MN	Collin Peterson	P000258	collinpeterson.house.gov	legacy	For any Minnesotans in Washington, D.C. this December, the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony will be taking place on Wednesday, December 6, 2017, at 5:00 PM on the West Front of the U.S. Capitol. This tradition dates back to 1964 with the decorating of the first Christmas tree on the West Front Lawn. The U.S. Forest Service has selected the trees since 1970. This year's tree is an Engelmann spruce from Kootenai National Forest in Montana. The tree will be lit from dusk until 11:00 PM each evening through January 1, 2018. The U.S. Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony 2016	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z

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Press releases

1,368 rows where state = "MN" and year = 2017 sorted by date descending

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