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1,438 rows where state = "MN" and year = 2019 sorted by date descending

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https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-angie-craig-votes-pass-historic-drug-pricing-bill-0 Rep. Angie Craig Votes to Pass Historic Drug Pricing Bill 2019-12-30 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Angie Craig C001119 craig.house.gov     legacy U.S. Rep. Angie Craig voted to pass the Elijah E. Cummings Lower Drug Costs Now Act, which would save Minnesota families tens of thousands of dollars in prescription drug costs. Working families cannot wait for action on the outrageous cost of prescription drugs, said Rep. Craig. I cosponsored this historic piece of legislation to put common-sense solutions in place to cap out-of-pocket costs for seniors, invest in research for more effective treatments, and hold big drug companies accountable for profiting off the backs of Minnesota families. It is now the Senate's turn to take up this essential piece of legislation. The Elijah E. Cummings Lower Drug Costs Now Act is estimated to save over $500 billion over ten years according to the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office. The bill would: Allow Medicare to negotiate prices for a minimum of 50 of the most expensive drugs and to extend the negotiated price to all health plans Create a $2,000 cap on out-of-pocket drug costs for seniors Expand Medicare benefits to include vision, dental, and hearing for the first time, which would benefit over 100,000 people in Minnesota's Second District alone Invest in research for new innovation, cures and treatments Rep. Craig has been leading the effort to lower the cost of health care and the price of prescription drugs since she was sworn in this past January. She has introduced or cosponsored 59 health care bills, including the State Healthcare Premium Reduction Act, which would lower insurance premiums in the individual market and the Emergency Access to Insulin Act, which would create emergency insulin supplies and hold big drug companies accountable for jacking up prices. Additionally, she has held six health care listening sessions across the district in Eagan, Burnsville, Northfield, Wabasha, Shakopee, and Red Wing to hear directly from constituents on their experiences with health care. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=936D81BB-C358-4F59-891A-7F19B3BC5D11 Klobuchar Statement on Thye-Blatnik Decision on Federal Payments to St. Louis, Lake, Cook Counties 2019-12-30 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Amy Klobuchar K000367 www.klobuchar.senate.gov     legacy After efforts by Klobuchar, the U.S. Forest Service will redo the appraisal for federal payments to St. Louis, Lake, and Cook counties under the Thye-Blatnik Act that support crucial services including law enforcement, firefighting, and infrastructure improvements WASHINGTON U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) issued the following statement after the U.S. Forest Service announced that they will re-do the appraisal of federal land in St. Louis, Lake, and Cook Counties and that the counties will continue to receive annual payments at 2008 levels under the Thye-Blatnik Act. Klobuchar has been a consistent advocate for the annual federal compensation payments to St. Louis, Lake, and Cook counties under the Thye-Blatnik Act. In June and December of this year, Klobuchar called on officials at the U.S. Forest Service and U.S. Department of Agriculture to consider the concerns of these counties in northern Minnesota. A consistent and fair system of appraising Thye-Blatnik federal land payments is critical to ensuring that Minnesota counties can fully support crucial services like law enforcement, firefighting, and infrastructure improvements. I requested that the Department of Agriculture take action in response to the concerns raised by St. Louis, Lake, and Cook counties about the appraisal, and this announcement is welcome news for these communities. Klobuchar, a senior member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, has consistently advocated for annual federal compensation payments to St. Louis, Lake, and Cook Counties under the Thye-Blatnik Act. Klobuchar sent a letter to the Chief of the U.S. Forest Service, Vicki Christiansen on June 10, 2019 and followed up on December 11, 2019 to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to call on the U.S. Forest Service to take into account the concerns of the counties over the previous appraisal showing a significant difference in valuation of the lands. The counties, in northern Minnesota, have received federal payments for over 70 years to help offset lost pro… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=C50869A3-1DA4-4FA0-8E95-851B2D5BAEA4 Klobuchar Statement on Bombing in Somalia 2019-12-28 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Amy Klobuchar K000367 www.klobuchar.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar released the following statement today on the bombing in Mogadishu, Somalia: I am deeply saddened by the bombing in Mogadishu, and my heart goes out to the victims and their families. Minnesota is home to the largest Somali community in the country, and we mourn with those who lost loved ones today including many university and other students returning to class. We stand steadfast with our allies, and we must find those responsible for the attack and bring them to justice. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/mccollum-and-colleagues-honor-75-years-smokey-bear McCollum and Colleagues Honor 75 Years of Smokey Bear 2019-12-27 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Betty McCollum M001143 mccollum.house.gov mccollum https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Congresswoman Betty McCollum (DFL-Minn.), released the following statement today after introducing H.Res.775, a resolution honoring the 75th birthday of Smokey Bear: "After carrying the torch on wildfire prevention for 75 years, I'm pleased to honor Smokey Bear and all he has done to educate Americans about the dangers of unwanted human-caused wildfires. As the longest running public service advertising campaign in U.S. history, Smokey has been hugely successful at igniting interest and awareness of how everyday Americans can prevent wildfires and protect forest health, all while becoming one of the most recognizable characters in the world. But after 75 years, the flame of Smokey's famous ‘Only You Can Prevent Wildfires' catchphrase has started to flicker – overlooking that we now know some natural and prescribed fires can be beneficial for the environment. By encouraging the Smokey Bear campaign to explore ways his message can be modernized, we can ensure Smokey will continue to spark the attention of future scientists in classrooms across the country, and stay true to his original message of preventing unwanted wildfires." Background: The full text of H.Res.775 can be found here. Thank you to original co-sponsors: Rep. David Joyce (OH-14); Rep. Sanford Bishop (GA-02); Rep. Don Young (AK-AL); Rep. Deb Haaland (NM-01); Rep. Raúl Grijalva (AZ-03); and Rep. Jeff Fortenberry (NE-01). # # # 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-06-27T23:45:33Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=8D9BA75A-C95F-466F-94A0-F35F1EECAB76 Klobuchar Urges Consumer Product Safety Commission to Protect Children from the Dangers of Small Rare-Earth Magnets 2019-12-27 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Amy Klobuchar K000367 www.klobuchar.senate.gov     legacy Today's letter follows a Washington Post report that the number of children ingesting rare-earth magnets has skyrocketed in the three years since courts blocked federal efforts to regulate the industry WASHINGTON Today, U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) sent a letter to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) expressing her serious concerns about the alarming increase in injuries to children who have ingested small rare-earth magnets and requesting that the agency investigate this matter and take steps to ensure that children are kept safe from these dangerous products. Rare-earth magnets are strong, tiny balls that are popular desk toys, but are up to 10 times more powerful than ordinary magnets and can attract each other inside the intestine when swallowed by children, causing life-threatening injuries to the gastrointestinal tract, sometimes resulting in death. The letterfollows a recentWashington Post reportthat the number of children ingesting rare-earth magnets has skyrocketed in the three years since a court blocked the CPSC's initial efforts to regulate the industry. The CPSC plays a critical role in ensuring the safety of our children, including investigating hazardous children's products and banning certain dangerous products from the market altogether. Given the seriousness of this issue, I urge the CPSC to revisit this issue and take action to protect children from the dangers of small rare-earth magnets, Klobuchar wrote. As a member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, Klobuchar has been a leader in protecting consumer safety. Earlier this month, Klobuchar led a letter to CPSC urging the agency to open an investigation into contaminated toys following reports that a child from Minnesota was found to have toxic blood levels of lead after playing with an off-brand spin toy that was purchased online. She was also a chief author of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA), which gave CPSC the additional authority, resources, and staff to enforce consumer… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://phillips.house.gov/media/press-releases/phillips-spends-holidays-us-troops-middle-east Phillips Spends Holidays with U.S. Troops in the Middle East 2019-12-26 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Dean Phillips P000616 phillips.house.gov     legacy MIDDLE EAST Rep. Dean Phillips (MN-03) returned today from spending his holiday week visiting U.S. troops serving in the CENTCOM Area of Operations in the Middle East. From December 22 26, Phillips traveled with a bipartisan Congressional delegation and discussed the fight against ISIS in Syria and Iraq, Iranian aggression, and trade in a series of high-level diplomatic and military visits in Kuwait, Bahrain, and Qatar. Phillips also served holiday meals, delivered gifts, and passed out holiday cards from preschoolers at St. David's Center in Minnetonka and several New Horizon Academy locations in Minnesota's Third District to troops in at every stop. As a Gold Star Son, my gratitude to our outstanding men and women in uniform is immeasurable, said Phillips. It was my honor to spend the holidays with these brave Americans, whose service and sacrifice keep us all safe. As we spend time with our loved ones this holiday season, may we all reflect on their extraordinary sacrifice and honor them with our own acts of service in our own community. Phillips traveled with seven other members of Congress - Rep. David Cicilline (D-RI), Rep. Lee Zeldin (R-NY), Rep. Max Rose (D-NY), Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), Rep. Susan Wild (D-PA), Rep. Gil Cisneros (D-CA), Rep. Aumua Amata Radewagen (R-American Samoa) - who serve on the House Foreign Affairs, Armed Services, and Veterans Affairs Committees. The group visited the U.S. Embassy in Kuwait City, Camp Arifjan in Kuwait, Naval Support Activity in Bahrain, and spent Christmas Day passing out gifts and serving a pancake breakfast at Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar. CLICK HERE to see more photos from Rep. Phillips's trip. CLICK HERE to see photos of preschool art Phillips delivered to U.S. troops. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://emmer.house.gov/press-releases?ID=45958668-351B-4DEB-95C4-C4857B08A2CB Klobuchar, Craig, Phillips, McCollum, Emmer, and Stauber Urge Consumer Product Safety Commission to Open Investigation into Contaminated Toys to Ensure Child Safety 2019-12-23 2019 2019-12 Republican House MN Tom Emmer E000294 emmer.house.gov     legacy Facebook Icon Google Plus Icon Instagram Icon LinkedIn Icon Twitter Icon YouTube Icon Vimeo Icon Clients Icon Email icon Map Icon Print Icon Quote Icon icon_share Carousel Arrow - Left Carousel Arrow - Right 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-ilhan-omar-releases-end-year-progress-report-op-ed-her-tenure-congress Rep. Ilhan Omar Releases End-of-Year Progress Report, Op-ed on her Tenure in Congress 2019-12-23 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Ilhan Omar O000173 omar.house.gov     legacy MINNEAPOLIS Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) released an end of year progress report of her tenure in Congress thus far, along with an op-ed and graphic. I know how daunting the challenges before us can seem at times, Rep. Omar wrote. When faced with the words and actions of the current occupant of the White House, it is easy for hopelessness and cynicism to set in. But I want you to know: you have a representative who will do everything in her power to resist the forces of hate and division pushed by this president and pursue a politics of joy. Even in the darkest of moments, there is opportunity to build community and fight for a better world. I promise to continue to fight for that world as your representative in Congress. The achievements include: 28 bills and amendments introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives 16 bills and amendments passed in the U.S. House of Representatives 433 bills cosponsored 47,484 constituent letters answered 21 roundtables and town halls Over 1,000 meetings with constituents Over 200 constituent cases worked on $411,635 returned to constituents View the graphic View the op-ed here and below. Reflecting on a year of progress for Minnesotans By Congresswoman Ilhan Omar I came to Congress on a promise of cogovernance. As your Congresswoman, I do not only want to represent Minnesotans, I want to govern with you. As my first year in office comes to a close, I wanted to take this opportunity to speak to you directly about the priorities I am focused on. When I was sworn in this year, I made my first and primary goal to invest in the people and the communities of Minnesota's 5th District and to fight against the forces of economic inequality that are holding working families back in Minnesota and across the country. Too many Minnesotans are struggling to make ends meet because of policies that value corporate profits over workers' rights, and by a rigged system that forces the average American to scrape by on stagnant wages as the cost of living skyrockets. Too often, our lawmakers … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/mccollum-statement-securing-bwcaw-report-language-final-spending-package McCollum Statement on Securing BWCAW Report Language in Final Spending Package 2019-12-21 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Betty McCollum M001143 mccollum.house.gov mccollum https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Congresswoman Betty McCollum (DFL-Minn.), Chair of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies, released the following statement today after President Trump signed the FY 2020 funding package into law: "With President Trump signing H.R. 1865 and H.R. 1158 into law, we've avoided another government shutdown and funded our government sufficiently," Chair McCollum said. "The funding that's now signed into law advances House report language that accompanies H.R. 2740, which was passed by the House of Representatives on June 19, 2019. This language directs the State Department to report to Congress on the effects of sulfide-ore copper mining in the Super National Forest on international waters shared with Canada and protected by the 1909 Boundary Waters Treaty. While the White House took aggressive action to ensure similar language was stripped out of the Interior-Environment funding bill – which would have ensured science is used in determining the impact of mining on the Boundary Waters – the language that is included is an important step to keeping our shared international waters clean and safe. I look forward to the report, due to Congress in 60 days, on the potential for cross-boundary pollution resulting from sulfide-ore copper mining in the Superior National Forest. "To that end, I've sent letters to Secretary of State Pompeo as well as Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, apprising them of the expected report by the State Department and recommitting to our international partnership and shared obligation to protect these irreplaceable natural resources. These pristine waters belong to all of us, and it's important we all do our part to keep them intact." Background: This language can be found on page 31 of the State and Foreign Operations Appropriations Bill Report (H.R. 2740), and as follows: Report Rainy River Drainage Basin.—The Committee supports the 1909 Boundary Waters Treaty and the goal of limiting pollution of boundary waters. The Committee is concerned that d… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-06-27T23:45:33Z
https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases/omar-mccollum-craig-and-phillips-urge-assessment-public-housing-stock-following Omar, McCollum, Craig and Phillips Urge Assessment of Public Housing Stock following Cedar-Riverside Fire 2019-12-20 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Ilhan Omar O000173 omar.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTONReps. Ilhan Omar, Betty McCollum, Angie Craig and Dean Philips sent a letter to Ben Carson, the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, asking the agency to conduct a full assessment of national public housing in order to determine exactly how many facilities are currently exempt from sprinkler requirements and how many of those have been retrofitted regardless. On Wednesday, November 27th, a tragic fire that broke out in a public housing high-rise in the Cedar-Riverside neighborhood of Minneapolis, killing 5 people. More residents are still in the hospital recovering from injuries. The building was not fully equipped with sprinklers because it was constructed before laws mandated the equipment place. There are more than 20,000 publicly-owned units operated in our state, providing homes to 36,000 Minnesotans and families, the Members wrote. They are counting on the government to help keep them safe and prevent another senseless tragedy like what happened in Cedar Riverside last month. We look forward to hearing from your agency on the scope of the upgrades needed in order to help public housing residents across the country feel safer under their own roof. Although Public Housing Authorities conduct Capital Needs Assessment to catalogue all their maintenance and repair needs, sprinkler systems may not make it onto those lists for facilities that are exempt and already burdened with a high backlog of needs. Further, HUD does not formally keep track of which older buildings have or have not been outfitted with the life-saving equipment. The letter also asks for a cost estimate from HUD on how much federal funding the agency would need to ensure every public housing building was fully equipped, regardless of age. The full text of the letter is below and here. December 19, 2019 The Honorable Ben Carson Secretary U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development 451 7th Street, SW Washington, D.C. 20410 Secretary Carson: We write to request vital information from the Department of Housing and Urban Devel… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://phillips.house.gov/media/press-releases/phillips-applauds-new-permanent-resident-status-liberian-minnesotans Phillips Applauds New Permanent Resident Status for Liberian Minnesotans 2019-12-20 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Dean Phillips P000616 phillips.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC Today, Rep. Dean Phillips (MN-03) is celebrating with the members of the Liberian community in Minnesota after President Trump signed the National Defense Department Authorization (NDAA). The defense agreement provides Liberians on Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) with a pathway to citizenship for the first time - the culmination of a year-long effort by Phillips and a core group other lawmakers. Phillips has been working with the Liberian community, his colleagues in Congress and President Trump to first delay the expiration of DED in March and has advocated for a bipartisan permanent fix for the last year. The yearly defense bill contained the final provision, which was based on legislative efforts led by Phillips, Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick, and Rep. David Cicilline, Rhode Island Sen. Jack Reed and Minnesota Sen. Tina Smith. Our nation is the land of promise and opportunity, said Phillips. If you are here legally, play by the rules, and contribute to your community, you should have nothing to fear - and our Liberian neighbors, coworkers, friends, and family are finally breathing a sigh of relief. Over many months, I have worked together with Minnesota's extraordinary Liberian community to elevate their stories and legislate a permanent fix for DED. I'm overjoyed and celebrating alongside them today and am thankful to my colleagues Rep. David Cicilline, Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick, Sen. Tina Smith, and Sen. Jack Reed for finding a way to get this done. Minnesota is home to one of the largest Liberian immigrant populations in the United States, many of whom call Brooklyn Park home. For decades, Liberians on DED have worked legally, owned homes, and paid taxes in Minnesota with no pathway to citizenship. The community is also the hardworking bedrock of the northwest metro's health and senior care industry. The West African nation of Liberia was founded in 1822 by freed American slaves, and the two countries have since shared a special relationship. When a series of brutal civil wars broke out in 1989, man… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://phillips.house.gov/media/press-releases/phillips-reaffirms-commitment-strong-environmental-protections-bwca Phillips Reaffirms Commitment to Strong Environmental Protections for the BWCA 2019-12-20 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Dean Phillips P000616 phillips.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC - Rep. Dean Phillips (MN-03) issued the following statement after Chilean mining conglomerate and owner of Twin Metals, Antofagasta, submitted a plan to the Minnesota DNR detailing its proposal to develop a sulfide-ore copper mine adjacent to Minnesota's treasured Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness this week. The plan comes just days after the White House worked to strip a provision, authored by Rep. Betty McCollum (MN-04), from the federal spending agreement which would have required the U.S. Forest Service to complete its study on the risk sulfide-ore copper mining poses to the Boundary Waters. Last year, the Trump Administration cancelled the Forest Service study just before its completion and all information from this taxpayer-funded study is being withheld from the American people. This Administration has repeatedly stonewalled reasonable requests from Congress and the American people for more information about the implications of mining near Minnesota's, and the nation's, most popular Wilderness. I urge the Trump Administration to complete and publish the study of the potential impact of the Twin Metals mine on our treasured national forest lands, and I am proud to join Rep. Betty McCollum and thousands of my constituents in the mission to preserve the Boundary Waters for generations to come. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases/stauber-secures-reappraisal-thye-blatnik-payments Stauber Secures Reappraisal of Thye-Blatnik Payments 2019-12-20 2019 2019-12 Republican House MN Pete Stauber S001212 stauber.house.gov stauber https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper HERMANTOWN, MN – Today, Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) announced that the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) will reappraise the value of federal lands within the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, which determines how much Thye-Blatnik funding that St. Louis, Cook, and Lake Counties receive annually. Stauber worked to secure this reappraisal after a 2018 appraisal reduced the value of these lands by 39 percent over the previous market estimate, which was completed in 2008, thereby drastically reducing the funds allocated to the three counties. While the new appraisal process is taking place, the USFS will continue to make payments to the impacted counties based on the 2008 appraisal. Of the reappraisal, Congressman Stauber stated, "For years, these funds have helped provide essential services like law enforcement, search and rescue, road maintenance, and construction of public schools in these rural counties. Such a dramatic decrease in funds could be devastating for many residents and tourists in these areas, which is why I made it a priority to help secure this reappraisal." St. Louis County Board Chair, Patrick Boyle stated, "We applaud the Department of Agriculture for their decision and thank Representative Pete Stauber and Senators Tina Smith and Amy Klobuchar for their leadership and efforts on behalf of the citizens of St. Louis County. This decision allows for a more thoughtful approach and time to revisit an appraisal process that is so critical to future federal funding for our region." Lake County Commissioner, Rich Sve stated, "Lake County is pleased to hear that the Secretary of Agriculture has rejected the 2018 appraisal of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness and the counties will be kept whole with our PILT payments during the new appraisal process. The Thye-Blatnik payments are a vital source of revenue for Lake County." Commissioner Sve concluded, "Our Congressman Pete Stauber, and Senators Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith, were instrumental in communicating our concerns to the USDA. Witho… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-06-27T23:45:33Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=02DB222D-29B7-41BE-BD76-FFB88694052A Klobuchar, Craig, Phillips, McCollum, Emmer, and Stauber Urge Consumer Product Safety Commission to Open Investigation into Contaminated Toys to Ensure Child Safety 2019-12-20 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Amy Klobuchar K000367 www.klobuchar.senate.gov     legacy Letter to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) follows recent reports that a child from Minnesota was found with toxic blood levels of lead after playing with an off-brand spin toy purchased online WASHINGTON U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar and Representatives Angie Craig (MN-2), Dean Phillips (MN-3), Betty McCollum (MN- 4), Tom Emmer (MN-6), and Pete Stauber (MN-8) urged the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) to open an investigation into contaminated toys following reports that a child from Minnesota was found to have toxic blood levels of lead after playing with an off-brand spin toy that was purchased online. Last month, the Minnesota Department of Commerce banned the sale of 15 off-brand versions of these toys in Minnesota after finding that they contained toxic levels of lead and cadmium. In a letter, the delegation urged the CPSC to take steps to ensure that contaminated toys are taken off the market to ensure that children are safe. We believe one lead-contaminated toy is too many and that it is unacceptable that parents could unknowingly purchase contaminated toys for their children, the members wrote. Given the seriousness of this issue and recognizing that families are spending a significant amount of time shopping online, we urge the CPSC to ensure that no contaminated toys remain on the market so that parents can shop safe and kids can play safe. The full text of the letter can be found HERE and below: Dear Acting Chairman Adler: We write to express our serious concerns regarding recent reports that a child from Minnesota was found with toxic blood levels of lead and cadmium after playing with an off-brand spin toy that was purchased online and to request that the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) open an investigation and take steps to ensure that contaminated toys are taken off the market to ensure that children are safe. Over 400,000 Americans die each year due to lead exposure, which is also extremely hazardous to children's health by causing brain and nervous system da… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=13DFB955-8C1A-4A6E-AB1A-32CA59B8E758 Klobuchar Provisions Included in National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) 2019-12-20 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Amy Klobuchar K000367 www.klobuchar.senate.gov     legacy Legislation signed into law includes Klobuchar provisions that will examine the health effects of exposure to burn pits on veterans; support children of National Guard and Reserve members; a Klobuchar-backed Reed provision to extend permanent residency status to eligible Liberians; improve voting processes for members of the military to ensure all ballots from servicemembers are counted; and combat foreign influence campaigns WASHINGTON U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) announced today that five of her provisions to support servicemembers, veterans, and their families have been included in the reauthorization of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The first provision, based on the bipartisan Burn Pit Accountability Act, introduced with Senator Dan Sullivan (R-AK), would require servicemembers to be evaluated for health issues caused by exposure to open burn pits and toxic airborne chemicals during routine health exams. The second provision is based on the Supporting Children of the National Guard and Reserve Act, introduced with Senator Susan Collins (R-ME), and would support children in National Guard and Reserve families by requiring states to identify students from military families in school records to ensure that schools and teachers know which students have parents in the military to help accommodate any additional needs. The third provision is based on the Liberian Refugee Immigration Fairness Act, a Klobuchar-backed bill with Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), which would allow eligible Liberians to apply for permanent residency and provide them with a pathway to citizenship. The fourth provision would authorize the Department of Defense and the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) to conduct a study to determine necessary steps to track ballots from servicemembers across the world to ensure that their votes are being counted. The fifth provision is based on the Combatting Foreign Influence Act, introduced with Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), to establish a Malign Foreign Influence Response Center to combat election… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.smith.senate.gov/us-senator-tina-smith-says-thye-blatnik-decision-win-minnesotans-lake-st-louis-and-cook-counties U.S. Senator Tina Smith Says Thye Blatnik Decision is a Win for Minnesotans in Lake, St. Louis and Cook Counties 2019-12-20 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Tina Smith S001203 www.smith.senate.gov     legacy Senator Smith Successfully Fought To Ensure Compensation Payments Through Thye Blatnik Act Remain at Current Levels WASHINGTON, D.C. [12/20/19]Today, U.S. Senator Tina Smith (D-Minn.) announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) heeded her call and will maintain federal payments tothree counties in northern Minnesota at current levels, which is welcome news to Lake, St. Louis and Cook Counties. The Counties benefit from the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) as a world-renowned tourist destination, but they also forgo property taxes and other potential revenue streams. Congress passed theThye Blatnik Actover 70 years ago, which directed the Secretary of Agriculture to acquire lands within the future BWCAW and set up a system of annual compensation payments to the host counties. The most recent appraisal suggested that there had been an unbelievable 49 percent decline in property values in a mere decade, and Sen. Smith stood up for Lake, St. Louis and Cook Counties by urging USDA Deputy Secretary Stephen Censky to continueThye Blatnikpayments at previous appraisal levels until either a full appeal process is completed or a new appraisal can be conducted. Thye Blatnik payments have been a vital source of revenue for Cook, St. Louis and Lake Counties in northeastern Minnesota since 1948. A suspect and likely wrong reappraisal of lands in those counties conducted by the Trump Administration last year threatened to reduce county revenue dramatically,said Sen. Smith, a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee.Today, I am pleased that the Administration has listened to my advice and will redo their 2018 reappraisal and continue current levels of payments to the counties until that new appraisal is complete. You can access Sen. Smith's letter to Deputy Secretary Stephen Censky pushing to secure this outcomehere. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.smith.senate.gov/us-senators-tina-smith-and-david-perdue-introduce-bipartisan-youth-workforce-readiness-act U.S. Senators Tina Smith and David Perdue Introduce Bipartisan Youth Workforce Readiness Act 2019-12-20 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Tina Smith S001203 www.smith.senate.gov     legacy Senators' Bill Would help Prepare Young People for the Workforce and Boost Their Economic Potential WASHINGTON, D.C. [12/20/19]This week, U.S. Senators Tina Smith (D-Minn.) and David Perdue (R-Ga.)along with Sens. Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) and Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.)introduced a bipartisan bill to promote partnerships between afterschool providers and businesses so young people can explore career paths and opportunities that help them land their first jobs and thrive in the workforce. Right now, communities in Minnesota, Georgia, and across America face significant challenges in ensuring youth gain the skills needed to be adequately prepared to enter the workforce. Many young people share concerns about whether they have the skills necessary to secure a job. This lack of adequate workforce readiness also leads to negative economic impacts for employers, who often say they struggle to find workers with the right skills for open jobs. TheYouth Workforce Readiness Actwould support high-quality programs that help youth gain skills and connect these skills to critical real-life work experiences and learning opportunities. It would set up a grant program for national, youth-serving, out-of-school time organizations like the Boys & Girls Club to fund workforce preparation programs while also increasing coordination between local workforce boards and experts in youth policy. I hear from young people about their hopes for the future, which include contributing to their communities and getting good jobs. And I hear from employers that they need help getting connected to great employees. That's where afterschool and out-of-school time providers can play a role in helping young people gain skills and make connections to mentors, opportunities and local employers,said Sen. Smith, a member of the Senate Education Committee.Our bipartisan bill would help support youth success for years to come by exposing young people to the varied ways they can participate in the workforce. Currently, there are 7.3 million job openings and only … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://collinpeterson.house.gov/media/press-releases/epa-lets-down-farmers-again EPA Lets Down Farmers Again 2019-12-19 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Collin Peterson P000258 collinpeterson.house.gov     legacy House Agriculture Committee Chairman Collin Peterson released the following statement in regard to the release of the supplemental rule to address the Small Refinery Waiver actions that have been taken by the Administration: The Administration has repeatedly directed the EPA and other agencies to support the ethanol industry and corn farmers, and the EPA has told those farmers to trust them. Instead we're seeing a final rule out of EPA that doesn't guarantee the 15 billion gallons the RFS mandates. At a time when our agriculture economy is struggling, the EPA has ripped 4 billion gallons of ethanol out of the market and impacted corn prices and rural communities. We also have yet to see the other things that were promised to the biofuels industry and corn farmers to get more ethanol into the market via infrastructure incentives and policies related to higher ethanol blends. Chairman Peterson is also co-chair of the Congressional Biofuels Caucus, a bipartisan group of Members of Congress who advocate for homegrown renewable fuel policies that boost farmer incomes and reduce dependence on foreign oil. He is also the sponsor of theRenewable Fuel Standard Integrity Act of 2019, a bill which provides certainty to the biofuels industry by setting an annual deadline for small refinery exemption applications and bringing transparency to the process. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://collinpeterson.house.gov/media/press-releases/peterson-statement-house-vote-impeach-president-donald-j-trump Peterson statement on House Vote to Impeach President Donald J. Trump 2019-12-19 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Collin Peterson P000258 collinpeterson.house.gov     legacy Rep. Collin Peterson has issued this statement following a vote on two articles of impeachment against President Donald J. Trump: "Throughout my career, I have worked from the guiding belief that only through bipartisan action can we address the country's most pressing challenges.At the beginning of the impeachment debate we were told that it would only move ahead with bipartisan support in the Congress and significant support from the American people. "After the Russia investigation, Mueller Report and official impeachment investigation by the House Intelligence and the House Judiciary Committees we became more polarized and had less consensus. How can it be that after all the testimony, every Democrat thinks the president has committed an impeachable offense and every Republican thinks he has not? "I'm not a lawyer and am not sure what high crimes and misdemeanors are, but I do know that this process has not convinced the people in my district we have impeachable offenses and that the president needs to be removed. I disagreed with how the Russia probe and Mueller report were handled and think it set the stage for the failed impeachment inquiry. The inquiry and hearing have been partisan and have failed in convincing the country while further placating some people who have wanted the president impeached since he was elected. "This process has been a mistake and I will not be whipped in line by my party. I may stand alone but I stand in good conscience. History will show this to be a mistake and the Senate will make short work of an acquittal." 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-angie-craig-applauds-usmca-house-passage Congresswoman Angie Craig Applauds USMCA House Passage 2019-12-19 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Angie Craig C001119 craig.house.gov     legacy Today, Rep. Angie Craig voted to pass the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) with overwhelming bipartisan support, giving family farmers and Minnesota businesses a new deal with our largest trading partners. Rep. Craig worked for months to help finalize a final trade agreement that is good for family farmers and protects American workers - without providing a hand out to prescription drugs companies. She met several times with U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and led a group of over 100 Members of Congress in pushing back on a provision advocated by Big Pharma that would have extended market exclusivity on biologic drugs in the agreement. It was removed from the final trade deal. Over the past few months I've heard from farmers and businesses about the need for a trade deal that opens up export markets, and I've pushed to make sure hard-working Minnesotans weren't given a false choice between dependable markets and affordable healthcare, said Rep. Angie Craig. I'm proud to have worked with my colleagues and the Administration get this across the finish line. I'm pleased to vote for this important trade agreement, and now it's time for Mitch McConnell to prioritize this in the Senate. USMCA seeks to protect American jobs, improve labor standards abroad, and promote economic growth for family farmers and workers. This agreement has the overwhelming support of American labor groups, farm organizations, and business coalitions. The Dakota County Regional Chamber of Commerce thanks Congresswoman Angie Craig for her tireless work to stand up for our small businesses in the final USMCA deal. Our members will now have reliable markets with Mexico and Canada, our largest trade partners, said Maureen Scallen Failor, President of the Dakota County Regional Chamber of Commerce. Minnesota Farm Bureau greatly appreciates Congresswoman Craig's support for USMCA. She knows that Minnesota farmers needed an agreement that strengthens North America's strong, balanced partnership that locks in market opportunit… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://emmer.house.gov/press-releases?ID=F17E10B8-53CE-4C8E-B803-D48C8EE755F1 Emmer Applauds Passage of USMCA 2019-12-19 2019 2019-12 Republican House MN Tom Emmer E000294 emmer.house.gov     legacy Facebook Icon Google Plus Icon Instagram Icon LinkedIn Icon Twitter Icon YouTube Icon Vimeo Icon Clients Icon Email icon Map Icon Print Icon Quote Icon icon_share Carousel Arrow - Left Carousel Arrow - Right 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://hagedorn.house.gov/media/press-releases/vote-against-overtly-political-unwarranted-impeachment Hagedorn Votes Against Overtly Political, Unwarranted Impeachment 2019-12-19 2019 2019-12 Republican House MN Jim Hagedorn H001088 hagedorn.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON Last night, Rep. Jim Hagedorn (MN-01) voted against both Articles of Impeachment Against Donald J. Trump, President of the United States. The articles to impeach the President on the grounds of abuse of power and obstruction of Congress passed by votes of 230-197 and 229-198, respectively, on the House floor. Speaker Pelosi promised the American people that impeachment would be compelling, overwhelming and bipartisan. Yet, the only thing bipartisan about this impeachment is the opposition to it. The sad truth is that the Democrats' impeachment has been overtly political throughout and is an unwarranted attempt to remove our duly elected President from office, which is why I voted no', said Hagedorn. The Senate will now hold a trial to determine whether President Trump will be removed from office. Jim Hagedorn was elected in 2018 to represent Minnesota's First District in the U.S. House of Representatives. He grew up on his family's grain and livestock farm near Truman. Jim's father, former U.S. Congressman Tom Hagedorn (MN-02), grandfather, and great-grandfather were all southern Minnesota farmers. Jim currently resides in the rural farming community of Blue Earth. Hagedorn brings policy experience to Capitol Hill from time spent as a congressional aide to former U.S. Congressman Arlan Stangeland (MN-07) and a congressional relations officer for two non-partisan U.S. Department of the Treasury agencies. Hagedorn serves on the House Committees on Agriculture and Small Business to promote farming, Main Street enterprises and southern Minnesota's way of life. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases/citing-trump-administration-inaction-sanders-and-omar-pursue-oversight-effort Citing Trump Administration Inaction, Sanders and Omar Pursue Oversight Effort on Amazon Workplace Abuse 2019-12-19 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Ilhan Omar O000173 omar.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTONIn the face of the Trump Administration's continued failure to hold Amazon accountable for endemic abuses at its warehouses, Senator Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) and Representative Ilhan Omar (D-Minn.) are demanding detailed information from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regarding injury reports at Amazon facilities over the past three years. Working conditions in the United States of America should be the best and safest in the world, write Sanders and Omar. Unfortunately, workers at Amazon facilities suffer from continued egregious safety lapses. The two lawmakers cite Amazon's own injury records, recently revealed in a Center for Investigative Reporting expos, that demonstrate that the company's rate of serious injuries is more than double the average of warehouses nationwide. Due to the company's pressure on warehouse employees during the holiday shopping season, the first two weeks of December are the most dangerous of the year for Amazon workers. In July, Sen. Sanders and Rep. Omar led a dozen lawmakers in calling for OSHA to launch a thorough and comprehensive investigation into the workplace conditions at all of Amazon's warehouses, and urged OSHA to prosecute any uncovered abuses to the fullest extent of the law. OSHA's response to the members of Congress did not commit to conducting any new investigations or to the enforcement of violations at Amazon. OSHA's inaction reflects a deliberate shift by the Trump Administration toward weaker workplace protections. OSHA's own data reveal a notable decline in the number of inspectors and worksite inspections. Given your agency's lack of attention to this very serious matter, Sanders and Omar conclude, OSHA must now produce injury reports for all Amazon facilities. By law, this data must be visibly posted on the worksite and made available to employees, former employees, and representatives of employees. As the injury reports are stored in an easily shared data file, the two lawmakers estimate that it should take no more than a day… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases/stauber-celebrates-passage-usmca Stauber Celebrates Passage of USMCA 2019-12-19 2019 2019-12 Republican House MN Pete Stauber S001212 stauber.house.gov stauber https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) made the following statement after the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Trade Agreement (USMCA) passed the House with overwhelming bipartisan support. "Today's passage of the USMCA is a massive win for Minnesota's farmers, manufacturers, and small businesses. This 21st century trade deal, which was negotiated by President Trump and Ambassador Lighthizer over a year ago, puts the American worker first. It will expand our markets, generate over $68 billion in new economic activity, and create 176,000 new jobs - thousands of which will come to Minnesota. "We are currently experiencing the greatest economy in decades with record employment and rising wages, and the USMCA will ensure this prosperity endures for years to come. I am also optimistic that the advancement of the USMCA will help our standing as we continue to secure more trade deals across the globe. "The USMCA is the type of bipartisan win that the American people expect and deserve from Congress. American workers want to start off the new year with a modernized trade agreement, so I am hopeful that there will be no more unnecessary delays and the Senate passes the USMCA in the coming weeks." ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-06-27T23:45:33Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=70F8F7DE-E599-4F5E-91B4-24704410E2DE Klobuchar Statement on Final Rule for Biofuel Volumes 2019-12-19 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Amy Klobuchar K000367 www.klobuchar.senate.gov     legacy Klobuchar has spent months calling for an end to the harm caused by the abuse of the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) hardship' waivers WASHINGTON Today, U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) released the following statement on the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) final rule setting biofuel-blending volumes for 2020 and biomass-based diesel volumes for 2021. The biofuel industry supports hundreds of thousands of rural jobs across the country. However, this final rule fails to make any substantive changes to what was proposed in October, which was already too little, too late for farmers, ethanol producers, and the environment. The Administration caused this problem by making exemptions for big oil companies, and its failure to uphold the RFS has already led to the closure or idling of more than 35 ethanol and biodiesel plants, leaving rural America further behind. Enough is enough. To ensure certainty for the marketplace and uphold the Congressional intent of the RFS, I will continue to encourage the Administration to follow the law and properly account for waived renewable gallons. Our environment, farmers, and rural communities depend on the faithful implementation of the RFS. For years, Klobuchar has also been a leader in the fight to strengthen the RFS to support American jobs and decrease dependence on foreign oil. Klobuchar has led several letters urging the Administration to cease issuing small refinery waivers and reject changes to the RFS that would upend stability and predictability for small businesses and rural communities. In November, Klobuchar led a public comment letter to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Andrew Wheeler expressing concern over the proposed supplemental rule establishing the Renewable Fuel Standard's (RFS) 2020 Renewable Volume Obligations and 2021 Biomass-Based Diesel Volumes. In October, Klobuchar sent a letter to U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue asking the agency to document the impact of small refinery waivers on farm income, commod… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=D0DE3A37-4ECC-4DAB-AD0A-897764278116 Klobuchar-Backed Legislation to Protect Consumers from Robocalls Passes Senate 2019-12-19 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Amy Klobuchar K000367 www.klobuchar.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON Today, the U.S. Senate passed legislation backed by Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) to protect consumers from robocalls. The Telephone Robocall Abuse Criminal Enforcement and Deterrence (TRACED) Act would protect consumers from illegal robocalls by giving regulators more time to find scammers, increasing civil penalties, promoting call authentication and blocking adoption technologies, and ensuring that consumers receive call authentication and blocking services at no cost. The bipartisan legislation led by Senators John Thune (R-SD) and Representative Frank Pallone (D-NJ) also brings relevant federal agencies and state attorneys general together to address criminal prosecution of robocallers who intentionally violate the law. The bill now heads to the President's desk to be signed into law. Robocalls doubled last year in Minnesota. Worse still, they often target seniors, who can lose their entire life savings to fraudulent cons. Klobuchar said. We need to protect consumers from these annoying, unwanted, and potentially fraudulent calls That's why I have supported the Telephone Robocall Abuse Criminal Enforcement and Deterrence (TRACED) Act, bipartisan legislation that helps regulators find scammers, increases civil penalties, and promotes call authentication and blocking technologies. I am pleased that this legislation has passed the Senate and look forward to seeing it signed into law. As a member of the Senate Commerce Committee and Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Antitrust, Competition Policy, and Consumer Rights, Klobuchar has been a leader in the fight to protect consumers from robocalls, ticket bots, unauthorized charges on their phone bills, and deceptive practices by fraudulent online travel booking websites. In July 2019, Klobuchar introduced the bipartisan Data Analytics Robocall Technology (DART) Act with Senator Mike Crapo (R-ID) to direct the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to evaluate the most effective use of call blocking-technologies without disrupting… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=F013835C-40C5-418B-BB2B-33F5D1D7D724 Klobuchar, Rubio Announce Senate Passage of Supporting Veterans in STEM Careers Act 2019-12-19 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Amy Klobuchar K000367 www.klobuchar.senate.gov     legacy The bipartisan legislation would assist veterans re-entering the workforce by directing the National Science Foundation to encourage veterans to pursue careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) WASHINGTON U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Marco Rubio (R-FL) announced that the Senate has passed their bipartisan Supporting Veterans in STEM Careers Act to assist veterans re-entering the workforce by directing the National Science Foundation to encourage veterans to pursue careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM). The bill now goes to the House of Representatives for consideration. "Our veterans aren't just heroes on the battlefieldthey are the scientists, teachers, inventors, and engineers who will lead us to a brighter future. The passage of the Supporting Veterans in STEM Careers Act through the Senate brings us one step closer to bringing veterans the benefits of well-paying jobs in science, technology, engineering, and math, and helping employers better meet their hiring needs. By supporting veterans in their transition to civilian life through STEM career training, we not only help them to succeed, but also strengthen our economy and our nation, Klobuchar said. The future of work in the 21st century will be dominated by STEM roles, and the United States should prioritize policies that utilize our well-qualified veterans to fill this future workforce, Rubio said. I thank my Senate colleagues for unanimously approving this important and bipartisan bill to ensure our nation's veterans have the skills and opportunities to succeed in STEM careers. I look forward to working with our colleagues in the House to get this bill to the President. We owe it to our nation's heroes to ensure this bipartisan bill gets across the finish line. The Supporting Veterans in STEM Careers Act would also require the Office of Science and Technology Policy to establish an interagency working group to develop a strategic plan to address the barriers that veterans face when reentering the … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.smith.senate.gov/smith-klobuchar-senate-passes-legislation-give-eligible-liberians-permanent-residency-status-and Smith, Klobuchar: Senate Passes Legislation to Give Eligible Liberians Permanent Residency Status and Pathway to Citizenship, Heads to President’s Desk 2019-12-19 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Tina Smith S001203 www.smith.senate.gov     legacy Smith, Klobuchar say long fight to successfully ensure pathway to citizenship for Liberians in the U.S. won in National Defense Authorization Act WASHINGTON Yesterday, U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Tina Smith (D-MN) announced that following years of advocacy and leadership to extend permanent residency status to Liberians, theNational Defense Authorization Act(NDAA), which includes a provision to allow eligible Liberians living in the United States currently on the temporary immigration status of Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) to continue living legally in the U.S. and get on a pathway to earning U.S. citizenship, has passed the Senate. The legislation passed the U.S. House of Representatives last week and after Senate passage now heads to the President's desk to be signed into law. Our work to secure a path to citizenship for eligible Liberians here in America is one step closer to finally becoming law,Klobuchar said.There has been a vibrant Liberian community in Minnesota for decades, and they are an important part of our state, where they serve as business owners, teachers, and health care workers. This hard fought step toward permanent citizenship is well-deserved for this community that has worked hard and played by the rules. We foughtalongside brave community members who made their voices heardto extend humanitarian protections for Liberians because these people deserve the opportunity to become American citizens,Smith said.Creating a pathway to citizenship is a historic step for Congress, and it's the right step for us to take for Liberian families in Minnesota and across America. Klobuchar has been urgently requesting that the Administrationextend these protections for Liberians. Since 2007,Klobuchar hascosponsoredtheLiberian Refugee Immigration Fairness Act, led by Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), which would allow eligible Liberians to apply for permanent residency and provide them with a pathway to citizenship. The provision in NDAA is based on that legislation. She hasalso cosponsoredtheSafe E… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.smith.senate.gov/smith-portman-bipartisan-revitalizing-underdeveloped-rural-areas-and-lands-rural-act-be-signed-law Smith, Portman Bipartisan Revitalizing Underdeveloped Rural Areas and Lands (RURAL) Act to be Signed Into Law 2019-12-19 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Tina Smith S001203 www.smith.senate.gov     legacy Legislation Provides Certainty to Rural Co-ops to Accept Rural Broadband Grants and FEMA Disaster Relief, Promoting Economic Development & Job Creation Today, U.S. Senators Rob Portman (R-OH) and Tina Smith (D-MN) announced that the Senate passed the final FY 2020 funding bill that includes their bipartisanRevitalizing Underdeveloped Rural Areas and Lands (RURAL)Actto preserve jobs and encourage infrastructure development by expanding tax-exempt cooperative organizations' access to government grants and assistance, including rural broadband grants and FEMA disaster relief. This legislation provides certainty for co-ops looking to utilize government resources to deliver critical services to their members, such as broader access to high-speed internet or repairs to the electrical grid. The legislation now heads to the president's desk for signature. I'm pleased that this bipartisan legislation will now head to the president's desk to be signed into law because in today's technology-dependent world, we must do more to bring high-speed internet and stronger grid infrastructure to the rural areas of our country. Tax-exempt rural co-ops provide these important services to parts of the country where access to reliable electricity and high-speed internet is the most limited, and they rely heavily on grants to perform these services. Without this legislation, many co-ops may miss out on grant income or disaster assistance, hurting our efforts to promote economic development and job creation in these rural areas,said Portman. We should take any action we can to help us get more Minnesotans and Americans in rural areas connected,said Smith.So when I heard from several Minnesota cooperatives at risk of losing their tax-exempt status, I wanted to reverse that. I introduced bipartisan legislation that would ensure co-ops can retain their tax exemptions when they receive grants to expand rural broadband or recover from a disaster. With this measure set to become law, we can make sure rural broadband keeps expanding in Minn… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.smith.senate.gov/us-sen-tina-smith-administrations-renewable-fuel-standard-policy-bait-and-switch-and-falls-short U.S. Sen. Tina Smith: Administration’s Renewable Fuel Standard Policy is “Bait and Switch” and Falls Short of What Minnesotans, Americans Deserve 2019-12-19 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Tina Smith S001203 www.smith.senate.gov     legacy Senator Had Repeatedly Called on Trump Administration to Address Abuse of Small Refinery Hardship Waivers WASHINGTON, D.C. [12/19/19]Today,U.S. Senator Tina Smith (D-Minn.)a member of the Senate Agriculture Committeereleased the following statement after the Trump Administration announced final biofuel-blending quotas that fall short of accounting for the harmful abuse of small refinery waivers granted by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) blending targets. President Trump announced in early October that he would take steps to make up for the abuse of small refinery waivers, which have allowed oil refineries to avoid using four billion gallons of biofuels. But the Administration's plan released mid-October accounted for a fractionless than halfof the gallons of biofuels that have been lost. Now, Sen. Smith says the final blending targets are again disappointing and not what Minnesotans or Americans deserve. A strong Renewable Fuel Standard is important to rural communities, farmers, clean energy producers and agribusinesses.The RFS supports thousands of local jobs and helps lead to billions of dollars in economic activity, it cuts our dependence on foreign oil, and it helps fight global warming,said Sen. Smith.As I've said before,people were kind of feeling hopefulwhen the President talked about a 15 billion gallon blend assurance, after what's been a really cruddy year for corn producers and ethanol facilitiessome of whom are literally going out of business. This is another frustratingbait and switch by the President. His pro-oil and gas agenda stands out starkly in a week when we in Congress are about to pass a long-overdue extension of the biodiesel tax credit. In October, Sen. Smith pressed U.S. Deputy Secretary of Agriculture Stephen Censky about the Administration's policy on the amount of corn-based ethanol and other renewable fuels blended into the nation's gasoline supply at a Senate Agriculture Committee hearing.Sen. Smith has also pressed EPA Administrator Andre… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.smith.senate.gov/us-senator-tina-smith-introduces-legislation-help-tribal-communities-address-opioid-epidemic-mental U.S. Senator Tina Smith Introduces Legislation to Help Tribal Communities Address Opioid Epidemic, Mental and Behavioral Health 2019-12-19 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Tina Smith S001203 www.smith.senate.gov     legacy Senators Smith, Udall, Tester, Warren, Cortez Masto Push for Resources to Help People Struggling with Addiction, Mental Health Conditions & Other Behavioral Health Crises on Tribal Lands WASHINGTON, D.C. [12/19/19]Today, U.S. Senator Tina Smith (D-Minn.) introduced a billalong with U.S. Sens. Tom Udall (D-N.M.), Jon Tester (D-Mont.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.)to help Tribal communities in Minnesota and across the country access the resources they need to support people who are struggling with mental health issues or substance use disorders. Tribal communities have been hit hard by the opioid epidemic. According to a leading health agency, American Indians and Alaska Natives experience some of the highest drug overdose death rates. However, many tribal communities don't have the resources they need to tackle this public health crisis. TheNative Behavioral Health Access Improvement Actwould create a behavioral health program to help Tribes develop solutions that include culturally-appropriate efforts aimed at prevention, treatment, and recovery. Sen. Smith's bill would set up the Special Behavioral Health Program for Indiansthe SBHPImodeled after the successful Special Diabetes Program for Indians. You can access a summary of the billhereand text of the billhere. Native communities have been hit hard by the opioid epidemic, yet too many aren't able to access the behavioral health services necessary to tackle these challenges,said Sen. Smith, a member of the both the Senate Health and Indian Affairs Committees.Tribes need to be able to access the resources necessary to address the opioid crisis, and other mental health and substance use crises. I'm putting this bill forward to helpleaders in Indian Country,and those closest to the work, create programs that leverage their unique strengths and cultural resources. Far too many families in Native communities throughout New Mexico and Indian Country have beenhurtby the opioid crisis, suicide, and other behavioral health emergenc… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://emmer.house.gov/press-releases?ID=0A35437E-ED47-4BB4-B076-9EA47A228B7D Emmer Statement on Impeachment 2019-12-18 2019 2019-12 Republican House MN Tom Emmer E000294 emmer.house.gov     legacy Facebook Icon Google Plus Icon Instagram Icon LinkedIn Icon Twitter Icon YouTube Icon Vimeo Icon Clients Icon Email icon Map Icon Print Icon Quote Icon icon_share Carousel Arrow - Left Carousel Arrow - Right 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://emmer.house.gov/press-releases?ID=F8649A95-9AC7-49EB-84AF-326D3F23C8EB Emmer and Stauber Applaud Announcement of Twin Metals Minnesota Offering Mine Plan of Operation 2019-12-18 2019 2019-12 Republican House MN Tom Emmer E000294 emmer.house.gov     legacy Facebook Icon Google Plus Icon Instagram Icon LinkedIn Icon Twitter Icon YouTube Icon Vimeo Icon Clients Icon Email icon Map Icon Print Icon Quote Icon icon_share Carousel Arrow - Left Carousel Arrow - Right 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://hagedorn.house.gov/media/press-releases/statement-on-impeachment Hagedorn Submits Statement for the Record on Articles of Impeachment 2019-12-18 2019 2019-12 Republican House MN Jim Hagedorn H001088 hagedorn.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON - Rep. Jim Hagedorn (MN-01) submitted the following statement for the record in response to H.Res. 755, Articles of Impeachment Against Donald J. Trump, President of the United States: "Many members of this body have publicly voiced support for impeachment since before this President was sworn into office some even skipping the Inauguration, a time-honored American tradition, because they viewed him as an illegitimate President. "For a significant number of my colleagues, this will not be the first and possibly not even the last time they vote to impeach President Trump. Several have openly admitted they are concerned if they don't vote to impeach the President, he will be reelected. "Even the highest-ranking member of this body publicly stated that this process has been two and a half years in the making. The Speaker admitted this just months after she told the American people that impeachment would need to be compelling, overwhelming and bipartisan. Yet, the only thing bipartisan about this impeachment is the opposition to it. "Here are the facts: Both President Trump and President Zelensky say there was no pressure. The call transcript shows no conditionality or 'quid pro quo' between aid and an investigation. The Ukrainians were not aware that aid was withheld when Trump and Zelensky spoke. Ukraine did not open an investigation, and still received aid and a meeting with President Trump. "The sad truth is that this has been an overtly political process from the very beginning, and an unwarranted attempt to remove our duly elected President from office. I will vote 'no' and I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to vote against this divisive impeachment." President Trump's December 17 letter to Speaker Pelosi, which Rep. Hagedorn attached to his statement, can be found here. Hagedorn will vote against the impeachment of President Trump this evening. Jim Hagedorn was elected in 2018 to represent Minnesota's First District in the U.S. House of Representatives. He grew up on his famil… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/mccollum-statement-release-twin-metals-mine-plan McCollum Statement on Release of Twin Metals Mine Plan 2019-12-18 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Betty McCollum M001143 mccollum.house.gov mccollum https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Congresswoman Betty McCollum (DFL-Minn.), Chair of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies, released the following statement today after Twin Metals released its plan for a sulfide-ore mine near the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness: "Today, Twin Metals is releasing a mine plan to extract profits while poisoning Minnesota's most pristine waters. Only after the White House, a few days ago, intervened in final appropriations negotiations to strip out a directive for the National Academy of Sciences to study and inform the American people and Congress about the environmental impact of sulfide-ore mining on the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Since taking office, the Trump administration has gone to extreme lengths – denying access to a scientific study, ignoring public input, and lying to Congress. Why? They did so in order to help a foreign mining company destroy our precious wilderness. "The science-based environmental review of the mining withdrawal of federal lands adjacent to the BWCA was nearly complete when it was terminated by President Trump. That taxpayer-funded study and its data, findings, and assessments have been kept a secret by the Trump administration. Access to the information that has been collected by this study is being denied to Congress and the American people. Minnesotans should ask themselves: why are President Trump and Republicans in Congress hiding this study from the American people? It is because they are willing to pollute and poison Minnesota's and Canada's waters in exchange for extracting profits. The fix is in. We must fight back to protect our Boundary Waters." # # # 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-06-27T23:45:33Z
https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-ilhan-omar-leads-letter-calling-investigation-alleged-turkish-war-crimes Rep. Ilhan Omar Leads Letter Calling for Investigation Into Alleged Turkish War Crimes 2019-12-18 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Ilhan Omar O000173 omar.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTONRep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) today led a letter to Jim Jeffrey, the Special Envoy for the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIL, about Turkey's alleged use of white phosphorous in an intentional attack on civilians. International organizations and observers on the ground in Northern Syria allege that on October 16th, Turkish forces used white phosphorous. If these allegations are true, this is a war crime and a crime against humanity. The Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons has said it is monitoring the situation, but has declined to open a full investigation. Members are asking for a full briefing, classified if necessary, to address what the U.S. has learned about the alleged chemical attackand calling on the Department of State to commit to a full, impartial, multilateral investigation into the allegations. If the attack is found to violate domestic or international law, Members are requesting accountability for the perpetrators, including a potential Security Council resolution and International Criminal Court Investigation. The letter is led by Rep. Omar, along with Reps. Karen Bass, Chair of the Subcommittee on Africa, Global Health, Global Human Rights and International Organizations, Juan Vargas, and Sheila Jackson Lee. You can read the full letter here and below. Dear Ambassador Jeffrey, We are writing to express our grave concerns regarding allegations that Turkish forces used white phosphorous in an intentional attack on civilian populations in Syria on October 16th. The use of chemical weapons on civilian populations is one of the most atrocious and disturbing acts a government or military can take. We recognize that, under domestic and international law, white phosphorous has both legitimate military uses and illegitimate ones. However, the allegations from organizations and individuals on the ground, including the Kurdish Red Crescent, are clear in this case: that Turkey's use was targeted at civilians, and falls under the category of illegitimate use. Further, if the intention of usi… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-ilhan-omar-statement-impeachment-president-trump Rep. Ilhan Omar Statement on the Impeachment of President Trump 2019-12-18 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Ilhan Omar O000173 omar.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTONRep. Ilhan Omar issued the following statement on the Articles of Impeachment against President Donald Trump. Today, we in the United States House of Representatives fulfill our Constitutional responsibility. Today, we vote to restore balance to our democracyby voting to impeach the 45th President of the United States, Donald Trump. On March 7th, 1788, six months after the Constitution was signed at Independence Hall, Alexander Hamilton laid out in detail the standards for impeachment in the Federalist papers. Impeachment should proceed from the misconduct of public men, or, in other words, from the abuse or violation of some public trust,' Hamilton wrote. If the federal governmentshould overpass the just bounds of its authority and make a tyrannical use of its powers,' the people must take such measures to redress the injury done to the Constitution.' He also warned that caution and investigation are a necessary armor against error and imposition. Donald Trump has abused the public trust and overpassed the bounds of his authority. He has used the office of the presidency for his own personal political gain. We in the United States House of Representatives have proceeded with caution and investigation. As a member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, I listened deliberately to depositions as witness after witness laid out in detail the President's abuse of power. The evidence is incontrovertible. The president extorted a foreign government in an effort to benefit his reelection and obstructed the Congressional investigation into that extortion. He abused his oath of office. He must be impeached. These are not the President's only impeachable offenses. He obstructed justice when he fired the FBI Director responsible for overseeing the investigation into his relationship with Russia. He has repeatedly violated the Emoluments Clause by retaining ownership and promoting his businesses while in office. He has abused his pardon power. He has pressured the Department of Justice to investigate political o… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://phillips.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-dean-phillips-mn-03-votes-impeachment Rep. Dean Phillips (MN-03) Votes for Impeachment 2019-12-18 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Dean Phillips P000616 phillips.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC Today, Rep. Dean Phillips (MN-03) voted in favor of botharticles of impeachment before the House of Representatives after viewing the whistleblower report and related evidence. Our Founders so feared the possibility of a future president abusing the powers of the office that they gave Congress the constitutional power to impeach before deciding on the powers of the presidency itself. They also created three co-equal branches of government, thereby creating a system of checks and balances - and a constitutional responsibility to provide oversight and accountability that made a Congressional investigation into the allegations made in the whistleblower's report an imperative. I take this duty very seriously. That is whyI participated in the depositions, attended the hearings, read the evidence, and consulted Constitutional lawyers both liberal and conservative in the lead up to yesterday's vote. I voted for both articles of impeachment because I believe that the evidence relative to obstruction of Congress and abuse of power is clear and damning, and it warrants a trial in the Senate. It was often repeated during the course of debate that those voting for impeachment are simply seeking to overturn the results of the 2016 election. It is of course the Senate who will decide whether to convict and remove the President from office - and every indication is that they will vote to acquit. I would remind my colleagues that there was also an election in 2018, resulting in a Democratic majority and a an historic freshman class with a mandate to provide a check on this President. We all took an oath to protect and defend the Constitution. I am proud of my colleagues who voted to uphold their oaths knowing it may come at the cost of their re-election. That courage has been missing in Washington for some time, and their actions leave me hopeful for our collective futures. Ultimately, Americans will serve as the final judge when they go to the ballot box in November of 2020. I ask that they carefully review th… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases/stauber-and-emmer-applaud-announcement-twin-metals-minnesota-offering-mine-plan Stauber and Emmer Applaud Announcement of Twin Metals Minnesota Offering Mine Plan of Operation 2019-12-18 2019 2019-12 Republican House MN Pete Stauber S001212 stauber.house.gov stauber https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) and Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) made the following statements after Twin Metals Minnesota put forward their Mine Plan of Operation, kicking off the arduous environmental review process required before construction can begin on the project. Congressman Pete Stauber stated, "In northern Minnesota, mining is our past, present, and future. This Mine Plan of Operation represents the future of our mining industry, as our friends and neighbors will target another key section of the Duluth Complex to supply the world's demand for precious metals. Stauber continued, stating, "Copper, nickel, and other precious metals found in the Duluth Complex are not just essential to powering the modern world but are also key to unleashing the economic engine in our part of the state. The development of these resources will be done responsibly as our regulations are the strongest in the world and mandate that this company operates at the highest of environmental and labor standards. Stauber concluded, stating, "We need the jobs and metals this project will provide, so I look forward to seeing our miners meet or exceed every local, state, and federal environmental regulation." Congressman Tom Emmer stated, "Mining is a way of life for thousands of Minnesotans. With the largest untapped copper-nickel deposit in the world, our state is ready to step up and realize America's full mining potential. More than two years ago, I introduced Minnesota's Economic Rights (MINER) in the Superior National Forest Act to restore our state's right to explore and - if environmentally appropriate - mine valuable precious metals. Today, because of the MINER Act and the work of this Administration, the announcement of Twin Metal's Mine Plan of Operation is the start of another chapter in Minnesota's rich mining history. Emmer concluded, stating, "Following an extensive environmental review process designed to protect the natural treasures of our state, this project can provide the region with… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-06-27T23:45:33Z
https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases/stauber-votes-no-articles-impeachment Stauber Votes No on Articles of Impeachment 2019-12-18 2019 2019-12 Republican House MN Pete Stauber S001212 stauber.house.gov stauber https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) voted no on both articles of impeachment. He released the following statement after the vote: "Today is a sad day for our nation. After months of digging and ignoring the most pressing issues facing this nation, the majority in the House has voted to reverse the 2016 Presidential election. "Since Speaker Pelosi first announced that she was proceeding with impeachment, she along with Chairmen Schiff and Nadler have acted in a reckless manner. They have operated in secret, instructed witnesses not to answer Republican questions, denied due process, and determined what type of crimes to accuse the President of by using focus groups. Despite these abuses, they have been unsuccessful in proving their case. "Speaker Pelosi once stated that impeachment must be compelling, overwhelming, and bipartisan. She has failed her own impeachment standard on every count. In fact, the only thing bipartisan about today's impeachment is the opposition to it. "Impeachment is not a tool to overturn the will of the people. This is exactly what our Founding Fathers warned us to avoid at all costs and I fear that this vote has set a dangerous precedent of voting to impeach whenever one party has control in the House and the other is in the White House. We have a Presidential election next year and the American people deserve to decide the outcome." ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-06-27T23:45:33Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=66497B6E-B654-44F3-8770-0505C07DCD01 Klobuchar, Smith Announce Public Housing Fire Safety Act Following Tragic Fire in Minneapolis 2019-12-18 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Amy Klobuchar K000367 www.klobuchar.senate.gov     legacy Senators' bill would encourage public housing authorities to install sprinkler systems in older buildings to improve safety of residents and local communities WASHINGTON - Today, U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Tina Smith (D-MN) introduced legislationthe Public Housing Fire Safety Actthat would create a program to provide support to public housing authorities who wish to retrofit older high-rise apartment buildings with sprinkler systems. The Federal Fire Safety Act of 1992 required the installation of sprinklers in all new government-owned high rise buildings. However, there are thousands of public housing apartment buildings around the country built before that date. According to data from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), for example, nearly all of the high-rise public housing buildings in Minneapolis, Minnesota were built before the mandatory sprinkler system laws look effect. One of these properties, Cedar High Apartments, suffered a tragic and fatal fire last month. The upper floors of the building, where the fire erupted, did not have sprinkler systems installed. Public housing authorities that wish to retrofit older buildings like Cedar High Apartments with sprinkler systems must use their already limited capital funds to do so. While many public housing authorities have recognized the importance of these upgrades, the federal government must take a larger role in supporting fire safety improvements. With the proper safeguards in place, tragic events like the recent Cedar-Riverside fire in Minneapolis could be prevented, Klobuchar said. The Public Housing Fire Safety Act would require HUD to set aside money for sprinkler systems and help ensure that buildings have properly installed fire systems. We mourn those we lost, and we are thankful for the swift and heroic action by firefighters and first responders who saved lives. I am dedicated to ensuring that safe and stable housing is available for families in Minnesota. The fire at Cedar High Apartments was a tragic loss for … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=A6D4F2D5-2E8E-4776-9A9E-E92DA5C375AF Klobuchar, Smith: Senate Passes Legislation to Give Eligible Liberians Permanent Residency Status and Pathway to Citizenship, Heads to President’s Desk 2019-12-18 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Amy Klobuchar K000367 www.klobuchar.senate.gov     legacy Klobuchar, Smith say long fight to successfully ensure pathway to citizenship for Liberians in the U.S. won in National Defense Authorization Act WASHINGTON Yesterday, U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Tina Smith (D-MN) announced that following years of advocacy and leadership to extend permanent residency status to Liberians, the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which includes a provision to allow eligible Liberians living in the United States currently on the temporary immigration status of Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) to continue living legally in the U.S. and get on a pathway to earning U.S. citizenship, has passed the Senate. The legislation passed the U.S. House of Representatives last week and after Senate passage now heads to the President's desk to be signed into law. Our work to secure a path to citizenship for eligible Liberians here in America is one step closer to finally becoming law, Klobuchar said. There has been a vibrant Liberian community in Minnesota for decades, and they are an important part of our state, where they serve as business owners, teachers, and health care workers. This hard fought step toward permanent citizenship is well-deserved for this community that has worked hard and played by the rules. We foughtalongside brave community members who made their voices heardto extend humanitarian protections for Liberians because these people deserve the opportunity to become American citizens, Smith said. Creating a pathway to citizenship is a historic step for Congress, and it's the right step for us to take for Liberian families in Minnesota and across America. Klobuchar has been urgently requesting that the Administrationextend these protections for Liberians. Since 2007,Klobuchar hascosponsoredthe Liberian Refugee Immigration Fairness Act, led by Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), which would allow eligible Liberians to apply for permanent residency and provide them with a pathway to citizenship. The provision in NDAA is based on that legislation. She hasalso cosponsor… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=F9229026-7F50-4435-8D1A-59E903CEF010 Klobuchar Statement on the Impeachment of President Trump 2019-12-18 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Amy Klobuchar K000367 www.klobuchar.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) released this statement upon the impeachment today of President Donald John Trump: Today is a somber day for our country. In America, no one is above the law, and the American people deserve to hear evidence and witness testimony during a full and fair trial in the Senate. If the President has any facts to present in his defense to the articles of impeachment, we should hear them. When the Senate convenes for a trial, I will take my oath seriously and carry out my constitutional duty. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.smith.senate.gov/2020-budget-agreement-passed-key-bipartisan-measures-us-senator-tina-smith-authored-championed-set As 2020 Budget Agreement is Passed, Key Bipartisan Measures U.S. Senator Tina Smith Authored & Championed Set to Become Law and Benefit Minnesotans 2019-12-18 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Tina Smith S001203 www.smith.senate.gov     legacy Senator Successfully Includes Efforts to Lower Health Care Costs, Support Housing and Expand Broadband in Government Spending Package WASHINGTON, D.C. [12/18/19]As Congress sends its final budget agreement for 2020 to the President's desk, Minnesotans will benefit from several bipartisan measures U.S. Senator Tina Smith (D-Minn.) authored and championed. Sen. Smith's bipartisan efforts to address health care costs and skyrocketing prescription drug prices, support rural housing, ramp up clean energy, expand disaster relief to hard-hit farmers and preserve electric cooperatives' tax-exempt status while expanding much-needed broadband services in rural communities were all included in the final budget package expected to be signed into law in the coming days. Here we are at the end of the year, and I'm glad I was able to get a lot of the bipartisan efforts I've been working on across the finish line to help Minnesotans,said Sen. Smith.The government spending package includes measures focused on the issues I talk about with people from across the statelowering prescription drug prices, expanding affordable housing and broadband, supporting the economy and bolstering education programs. This shows that Congress can come together from both sides of the aisle and do what's right to move Minnesota and our nation forward, and create opportunity for American families. The government spending package includes several of Sen. Smith's top Senate priorities: Lowering Prescription Drug Prices and Health Care Patients should be able to afford the medication they need to live, and Sen. Smith is glad her bipartisanbillintroduced with Republican Senator Bill Cassidy of Louisianato bring more low-cost insulin products to market and lower the price of insulin is included in the budget agreement. Sen. Smith also supported a bipartisan bill that would preventbrand-name companies from using anti-competitive tactics to keep low-cost generic products off the market. With the number of Lyme disease cases on the rise, Sen. Smith worked… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.smith.senate.gov/us-senators-smith-klobuchar-announce-public-housing-fire-safety-act-following-tragic-fire U.S. Senators Smith & Klobuchar Announce Public Housing Fire Safety Act Following Tragic Fire in Minneapolis 2019-12-18 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Tina Smith S001203 www.smith.senate.gov     legacy Senators' Bill Would Encourage Public Housing Authorities to Install Sprinkler Systems in Older Buildings to Improve Safety of Residents and Local Communities WASHINGTON, D.C. [12/18/2019]Today, U.S. Senators Tina Smith and Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) introduced legislationthePublic Housing Fire Safety Actthat would create a program to provide support to public housing authorities who wish to retrofit older high-rise apartment buildings with sprinkler systems. The Federal Fire Safety Act of 1992 required the installation of sprinklers in all new government-owned high rise buildings. However, there are thousands of public housing apartment buildings around the country built before that date. According to data from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), for example, nearly all of the high-rise public housing buildings in Minneapolis, Minnesota were built before the mandatory sprinkler system laws look effect. One of these properties, Cedar High Apartments, suffered a tragic and fatal fire last month. The upper floors of the building, where the fire erupted, did not have sprinkler systems installed. Public housing authorities that wish to retrofit older buildings like Cedar High Apartments with sprinkler systems must use their already limited capital funds to do so. While many public housing authorities have recognized the importance of these upgrades, the federal government must take a larger role in supporting fire safety improvements. The fire at Cedar High Apartments was a tragic loss for the Cedar-Riverside community. Since the day Minnesotans woke up to the news of this terrible fire, I stared to connect with people closest to the fire and look into measures to keep such tragedies from happening,said Sen. Smith.After taking the time to listen to Minnesotans, advocates and community members, this bill gets right to the root of what we need to do: incentivize public housing authorities that want to be able to install sprinkler systems. With the proper safeguards in place, tragic events like the r… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.smith.senate.gov/us-senators-tina-smith-mike-braun-introduce-bipartisan-bill-address-underhanded-big-pharma-tactic U.S. Senators Tina Smith, Mike Braun Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Address Underhanded Big Pharma Tactic That Prevents Americans from Accessing Affordable Rx Drugs 2019-12-18 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Tina Smith S001203 www.smith.senate.gov     legacy Senator Smith's Expanding Access to Low-Cost Generics Act Taking Aim at Anti-Competitive Prescription Drug Practice Called Parking Secures Bipartisan Support Thanks to Senator Braun WASHINGTON, D.C. [12/18/19]Today, U.S. Senators Tina Smith (D-Minn.) and Mike Braun (R-Ind.) introduced legislation to bring low-cost generics to market, increase competition and help American families and seniors access their medications. TheExpanding Access to Low-Cost Generics Actwhich was the first standalone piece of legislation introduced by Sen. Smithgets to the heart of a major concern families are facing right now: prescription drug prices. Nearly three in ten Americans report that they did not fill a prescription because it was too expensive. Anti-competitive behavior between brand name and generic drug manufacturers is delaying timely access to low-cost generic drugs. For example, parking is a practice that can occur when a brand name manufacturer agrees not to sue the first company that submits an application to create a generic version of that druga so-called first fileras long as the generic company agrees to delay bringing that generic drug to market. This anti-competitive parking behavior creates a bottleneck in the number of generic products available on the market and drives up costs. Sen. Smith's billwhich is now bipartisan thanks to Sen. Braun throwing his support behind the legislationtakes major steps toward eliminating this practice. I've traveled around Minnesota to talk with families, seniors, and communities, and the topic of prescription drug prices almost always comes up. The amount of money that Minnesotans pay for medications is out of controland it's not something families can, or should have to, sustain,said Sen. Smith, a member of the Senate Health Committee.This is the very first bill I introduced, and I pledged that I'd fight to make it bipartisan. I'm glad that my Republican colleague Senator Mike Braun from Indiana has joined me in this effort, and our bill addresses an anti-competitive loophole t… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-angie-craig-successfully-includes-second-congressional-district-priorities Rep. Angie Craig Successfully Includes Second Congressional District Priorities In Year-End Action 2019-12-17 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Angie Craig C001119 craig.house.gov     legacy Today, U.S. Rep. Angie Craig voted for the end-of-year legislation that includes nearly all of the priorities Rep. Craig urged leadership to include as priorities of Minnesota's Second Congressional District. Today's bipartisan package includes: the CREATES Act to lower the cost of prescription drugs a permanent repeal of the Cadillac Tax on health insurance plans extending the biodiesel tax credit for five years a $400M increase in IDEA funding for our schools raising the minimum age to purchase any tobacco products, including vaping products investing in Head Start at unprecedented levels, to make sure our littlest learners have a high-quality education increasing the Pell Grant for students in college and post-secondary institutions blocking a raise for Members of Congress allowing the CDC to research gun violence for the first time in more than 20 years funding rural broadband providing high-quality health care, including mental health services by funding Community Health Centers and Certified Community Behavioral Clinics Every day I look for ways to find commonsense, bipartisan solutions for the issues hard-working Minnesotans talk with me about, said Rep. Craig. I'm pleased to support today's bipartisan year-end package that prioritizes solutions to lower the cost of prescription drugs, invest in infrastructure - including rural broadband, support our family farmers by extending the biodiesel tax credit for five years, and invest in our schools and students with IDEA and Head Start investments. You can read the bipartisan legislation here and here. Rep. Craig has authored 17 bills and cosponsored over 330 additional bills - more than two thirds of which are bipartisan, and held 12 town halls across Minnesota's Second Congressional District. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://emmer.house.gov/press-releases?ID=4874A3F9-CB89-4E2E-8984-C90B2EF241C4 Emmer Secures $10 Million for Mental Health Services in Farm Country 2019-12-17 2019 2019-12 Republican House MN Tom Emmer E000294 emmer.house.gov     legacy Facebook Icon Google Plus Icon Instagram Icon LinkedIn Icon Twitter Icon YouTube Icon Vimeo Icon Clients Icon Email icon Map Icon Print Icon Quote Icon icon_share Carousel Arrow - Left Carousel Arrow - Right 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://emmer.house.gov/press-releases?ID=65AD80D2-CDF8-4D2E-9F3F-85DEED74A6A4 Emmer Statement on Spending Bill 2019-12-17 2019 2019-12 Republican House MN Tom Emmer E000294 emmer.house.gov     legacy Facebook Icon Google Plus Icon Instagram Icon LinkedIn Icon Twitter Icon YouTube Icon Vimeo Icon Clients Icon Email icon Map Icon Print Icon Quote Icon icon_share Carousel Arrow - Left Carousel Arrow - Right 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://hagedorn.house.gov/media/press-releases/hagedorn-responds-attacks-southern-minnesota-jobs-and-economy Hagedorn Responds to Attacks on Southern Minnesota Jobs and Economy 2019-12-17 2019 2019-12 Republican House MN Jim Hagedorn H001088 hagedorn.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON Rep. Jim Hagedorn (MN-01) today issued the following statement in response to attacks on The Mayo Clinic, free enterprise, and southern Minnesota's economy, jobs and way of life by Sen. Bernie Sanders: The attack lodged by Bernie Sanders on The Mayo Clinic highlights the grave threat posed to private, patient-centered medicine by a Democrat Party bent on imposing socialized medicine on the American people. Sanders says more should be done to support rural Americans and the health care institutions serving rural areas. On this we agree. But I strongly reject the pie-in-the-sky notions offered by Sanders and the Democrat Party to micro-manage the business decisions of U.S. medical providers. Instead, we must address the cost burdens of excessive federal regulations and the substandard-reimbursement for Medicare and Medicaid services both of which disproportionately and negatively impact rural medical institutions and residents. The Sanders-Democrat Party's socialist policies will reduce reimbursements to doctors and hospitals, rescind private health insurance, and destroy our high-quality medical care. Lower federal reimbursements for medical services will neither sustain Mayo's model of medical excellence nor properly fund smaller, predominantly rural hospitals. Most assuredly, lower reimbursements will greatly exacerbate the consolidation and closure of rural hospitals. Southern Minnesota is blessed with an array of outstanding rural hospitals and The Mayo Clinic, the preeminent institution of medicine in the world. Mayo, with its Three Shields of clinical practice, education and research, delivers the finest medical care imaginable. Each year, hundreds of thousands of people from the United States and around the globe travel to southern Minnesota for medical care. The jobs of an estimated 100,000 First District residents are, directly and indirectly, tied to health care. This includes 40,000 direct Mayo Clinic jobs in the Rochester area. Make no mistake, Democrats' socialist policies will grossly un… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://hagedorn.house.gov/media/press-releases/hagedorn-votes-increase-military-pay-repeal-cadillac-and-medical-device-taxes Hagedorn Votes to Increase Military Pay, Repeal Cadillac and Medical Device Taxes 2019-12-17 2019 2019-12 Republican House MN Jim Hagedorn H001088 hagedorn.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON Rep. Jim Hagedorn (MN-01) voted today in favor of two spending packages that would fund the government for Fiscal Year 2020. While I am disappointed with the process by which these bills were developed and with the lack of transparency or concern for the skyrocketing federal deficit, I voted in favor of these measures because they include permanent tax relief and other measures needed by our country and the residents of southern Minnesota. The provisions rebuild our military, provide a three percent pay increase for our troops, retroactively extend the $1 per gallon biodiesel tax credit, repeal the Cadillac, medical device and health insurance taxes, and promote competition in the biological products and drug markets by facilitating the entry of lower-cost generic and biosimilar versions of those products and treatments through inclusion of the CREATES Act, said Hagedorn. Jim Hagedorn was elected in 2018 to represent Minnesota's First District in the U.S. House of Representatives. He grew up on his family's grain and livestock farm near Truman. Jim's father, former U.S. Congressman Tom Hagedorn (MN-02), grandfather, and great-grandfather were all southern Minnesota farmers. Jim currently resides in the rural farming community of Blue Earth. Hagedorn brings policy experience to Capitol Hill from time spent as a congressional aide to former U.S. Congressman Arlan Stangeland (MN-07) and a congressional relations officer for two non-partisan U.S. Department of the Treasury agencies. Hagedorn serves on the House Committees on Agriculture and Small Business to promote farming, Main Street enterprises and southern Minnesota's way of life. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/chair-mccollum-statement-passage-fy20-interior-environment-conference-agreement Chair McCollum Statement on Passage of FY20 Interior-Environment Conference Agreement, Appropriations Minibus 2019-12-17 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Betty McCollum M001143 mccollum.house.gov mccollum https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper December 17, 2019 Interior-Environment agreement included in eight-bill appropriations minibus package Congresswoman Betty McCollum (DFL-Minn.), Chair of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies, released the following statement after the passage of the conference agreement for the $35.989 billion FY 20 Interior-Environment funding bill as part of an eight-bill minibus appropriations package, H.R. 1865: "This conference report represents a year of hard work and a complete rejection of the destructive budget cuts proposed by the Trump administration. Instead, we invest billions in the health of our communities and the environment," Chair McCollum said. "House Democrats are investing in protecting and preserving our public lands and natural resources, ensuring clean and safe drinking water and protecting air quality, and honoring the federal government's trust and treaty responsibilities to Native American communities. Our bill directly confronts President Trump's extreme climate denial and starts to reverse this administration's disastrous climate policies and the risks they pose to the American people and our natural environment. "I am disturbed that the White House intervened in negotiations and as a result, the agreement does not include the National Academy of Sciences study to examine the harmful impacts of sulfide-ore mining in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. That said, the Department of Agriculture and the Department of the Interior will still have to address the question of whether mining, especially copper-sulfide ore mining, is appropriate on National Forest System lands in the Rainy River Watershed." The $35.989 billion Interior-Environment funding bill is an increase of $437 million over the 2019 enacted funding level. Highlights of the bill include: ​ $9.06 billion for the EPA to ensure that all Americans have equal access to safe water to drink and clean air to breathe. This amount is $208 million higher than the 2019 enacted level, and $2.83 bil… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-06-27T23:45:33Z
https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/vice-chair-mccollum-statement-passage-national-security-appropriations-minibus Vice Chair McCollum Statement on Passage of National Security Appropriations Minibus 2019-12-17 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Betty McCollum M001143 mccollum.house.gov mccollum https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Congresswoman Betty McCollum (DFL-Minn.), Vice Chair of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, released the following statement after the passage of the national security minibus, H.R. 1158: "This appropriations minibus makes important investments to protect our national security and those who defend it," McCollum said. "It also prioritizes funding to bolster the health, safety, and well-being of service members and military families, and ensure our service members have the resources necessary to complete their missions safely. Additional investments in election security, the Census, science and research, and justice bolster our commitment to our shared future – strengthening and securing our election systems, ensuring every person is counted, and investing in the fight against climate change to protect the planet for future generations. This funding will strengthen our democracy and the freedoms we all enjoy." H.R. 1158 totals $860.3 billion and reflects conference agreements for four appropriations bills: Defense, Commerce-Justice-Science, Financial Services and General Government, and Homeland Security. Highlights of the package include: $1.42 billion for Department of Defense environmental restoration activities, including $172 million to address PFAS (per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances) remediation and protect the health and safety of our service members and communities in proximity to military installations. $34 billion for Defense Health programs, including major investments in cancer research. $110 million for upgrades to childcare facilities and language directing the Services to present innovative ideas to assist servicemembers with this important quality of life issue. Provides full funding necessary to support the proposed 3.1 percent military pay raise. $294 million for the Department of Defense Sexual Assault Prevention and Response programs. $1.8 billion for disaster relief to address recent earthquakes, hurricanes, and flooding in the United States. $425 million for election security… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-06-27T23:45:33Z
https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-ilhan-omar-hails-debt-relief-somalia Rep. Ilhan Omar Hails Debt Relief for Somalia 2019-12-17 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Ilhan Omar O000173 omar.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTONRep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) issued the following statement on securing debt relief for Somalia in H.R. 1158 the DHS Cyber Hunt and Incident Response Teams Act. I am thrilled we were able to secure debt relief for Somalia today. Somalia continues to hold crushing amounts of debtwhich holds back the economy and keeps millions of Somalis in poverty. This doesn't just have an impact on Somalis in Somalia, but on the thousands of Somali- Americans who live in my district and have family in the region. This debt relief package is a major milestone that validates the incredible progress that Somalia has made in the past several years. This should not be seen as the end, but the beginning of renewed diplomatic engagement with the country.There is still more that must be done when it comes to strengthening democracy, respect for human rights, and the relationship between Villa Somalia, regional governments and the people. The U.S. can play a major role in all of this. Debt relief is a step in the right direction, and I look forward to continuing to work for the free, peaceful, democratic Somalia we all want to see. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-ilhan-omar-statement-fy-2020-appropriations-deal Rep. Ilhan Omar Statement on FY 2020 Appropriations Deal 2019-12-17 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Ilhan Omar O000173 omar.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTONRep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) issued the following statement after voting no on H.R. 1865, the National Law Enforcement Museum Commemorative Coin Act and H.R. 1158, DHS Cyber Hunt and Incident Response Teams Act. Today, the House passed two bills that fail to hold this president accountable for his human rights abusesboth foreign and domestic. Rather than using our mandate for reform, the national security bill passed today maintains the status quo in foreign policy, giving the president a blank check to continue unwinnable wars, allows him to fund his racist border wall, andincreases funding for human rights abuses under ICE. This is simply unconscionable. It will have devastating impacts on our undocumented communities and further destabilize our foreign policy. The second package maintains the global gag rule and the Hyde amendment, creates a backdoor way to eliminate aid and starve the Palestinian people, recognizes support for Juan Guaid as President of Venezuela and includes $1.3 billion in military funding for Egyptian dictator Abdel Fattah el-Sisi. The bills are not without positive provisions. I was proud to see three of my amendments included in the final packageincluding an amendment to combat corruption and impunity in the Northern Triangle, another to increase funding for HUD's office of manufactured housing, and an amendment to stop Trump's abuse of a clean energy loan program. As I said earlier, securing debt relief for Somalia is a major milestone for me, for the country and for U.S. engagement. I'm also heartened to see the bill includes increased funding for child care grants and community health centersboth of which will benefit the fifth district. But we cannot be satisfied with making progress if we are falling short on our core duty as elected officials. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://phillips.house.gov/media/press-releases/phillips-amendment-clean-polluted-minnesota-missile-site-become-law-defense Phillips Amendment to Clean Up Polluted Minnesota Missile Site to Become Law in Defense Deal 2019-12-17 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Dean Phillips P000616 phillips.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC Rep. Dean Phillips (MN-03) announced today that his amendment aimed at cleaning up a polluted former missile site in Watertown, MN was included in final passage of the annual National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) which passed the Senate today. President Trump is expected to sign the bipartisan agreement into law. Watertown was the location of a Cold War anti-aircraft missile site until 1972. In 1974, it was jointly purchased from the military by 11 Minnesotacommunities Mound, Chanhassen, Chaska, Eden Prairie, Excelsior, Long Lake, Maple Plain, Mayer, St. Bonifacius, Victoria and Watertown. The 11 communities established the Western Area Fire Training Academy (WAFTA), an agreement between their local volunteer fire departments. Under the agreement, the grounds were used to conduct fire training exercises for the group for over a decade, until it was discovered that the site was contaminated with harmful pollutants left over from the Nike missile program. Since the 1990's, WAFTA has attempted to return the site to the military with the hope that it will be cleaned of pollutants. Phillips's provision in the final NDAA agreement will finally require the U.S. Army to identify the number of similar sites nationwide and make recommendations on how best to clean them up. When it comes to defense, it's my job to ensure that Washington is fulfilling its promise to uphold the safety and security of Minnesotans. said Phillips. That is exactly what we accomplished with our deal today and I'm proud that after more than two decades of hard work, a solution is in sight for eleven of our communities. My door is always open to local leaders who wish to be partners in my mission to generate results for Minnesota. During a tour of all 36 cities in Minnesota's Third District, Phillips and his staff were made aware of the problem by the Mound fire chief Gregory Pederson, who also serves as the President of WAFTA. Pederson had requested action from Third District representatives for nearly two decades with no succe… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://phillips.house.gov/media/press-releases/phillips-leads-repealing-medical-device-tax-minnesota-innovators Phillips Leads on Repealing the Medical Device Tax for Minnesota Innovators 2019-12-17 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Dean Phillips P000616 phillips.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC Rep. Dean Phillips (MN-03) announced today that he successfully pushed for a permanent repeal of the medical device tax to be included in Congress's end-of-year funding deal, which passed the House today. Minnesota is the birthplace and epicenter of the medical device industry, which leaves Minnesota medical device companies paying 25% of the total national medical device tax burden. Small and medium sized medical device businesses in the early innovation stage, which make up 80% of the industry in Minnesota, are particularly harmed because the tax is placed on revenue, not profit. The medical device tax has overstayed its welcome, said Phillips. Too many jobs have been lost and too much innovation has been stifled due to this tax, which disproportionately impacts Minnesota. Right now, Minnesota ranks second to last in the difference between the money we send to Washington and what we get back. Tax revenue should not come at the expense of Minnesota workers and Minnesota companies, and I am on a mission to make the tax code more equitable for our State. In Minnesota, the medical device industry supports more than 34,000 jobs and adds more than $23 billion to the state's economy every year. Phillips's Third District has the highest concentration of medical device businesses in Minnesota. The spending agreement also blocks efforts to undermine the Affordable Care Act, stopping the Trump Administration from preventing automatic re-enrollment in plans purchased on the exchanges, even if the customer does not select a new plan during open enrollment. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases/stauber-successfully-teams-trump-administration-during-appropriations-process Stauber Successfully Teams up with Trump Administration During Appropriations Process to Save Mining Jobs 2019-12-17 2019 2019-12 Republican House MN Pete Stauber S001212 stauber.house.gov stauber https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) made the following statement after successfully stripping harmful anti-mining, anti-jobs language from the Interior appropriations package. Stauber stated, "In northern Minnesota, mining is a way of life. Unfortunately, the livelihoods of my constituents and the needs of this nation were completely disregarded as an attempt was made to include anti-mining language in the Interior appropriations package. This damaging language would have halted mining in northern Minnesota for the next twenty years and robbed our communities of economic prosperity. Fortunately, with the help of the White House, Republican leadership and Congressman Emmer, we were able to prevent this harmful provision from reaching the House Floor. Stauber continued, stating, "Northern Minnesota is not a playground for Twin Cities and Coastal elites to spend their weekends, but a place where thousands of us work, recreate and raise our families. Our local economy and rural schools depend on the ability to responsibly develop our God-given resources and in doing so, we are also ensuring that these resources upon which we all rely are developed with the strongest labor and environmental standards in the world. Stauber concluded, stating, "I will always stand up for our economic drivers and work to bring high-paying jobs to our hardworking miners, union members and their families. We deserve good-paying jobs too. I am deeply thankful to President Trump for standing side by side with us and supporting our way of life." Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Committee, Congresswoman Kay Granger stated, "Representative Stauber fought tirelessly throughout the appropriations process for northern Minnesota. Because of his work and collaboration with the Trump Administration, we were successful in removing this harmful anti-mining provision. I look forward to continuing to work with Representative Stauber in the future on mining, public lands, and other issues." The anti-mining language St… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-06-27T23:45:33Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=7EAA648A-344A-4CB7-97FD-DF51BDD5BD6E Klobuchar-Backed Legislation to Improve Broadband Data Maps Passes House 2019-12-17 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Amy Klobuchar K000367 www.klobuchar.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), co-chair of the Senate Broadband Caucus, announced that the House passed her bipartisan legislation with Senators RogerWicker (R-MS), Gary Peters (D-MI), and John Thune (R-SD) to improve the accuracy of the Federal Communications Commission's (FCC's) broadband availability maps. The Broadband Deployment Accuracy and Technological Availability (DATA) Act would improve the accuracy of the FCC's broadband availability maps by improving the process by which broadband data is collected. Yesterday's action in the House is an important step in helping the kids that grow up in rural America to be able to live in rural America, Klobuchar said. When rural Americans have access to the infrastructure needed to support improving access to broadband then we keep rural America competitive in the 21st century and beyond. If we want to bridge the urban-rural divide, we have to close the digital divide and this legislation helps with granular data collection for more accurate mapping so that we can bring high-speed internet to every family, regardless of their zip code. Specifically, the Broadband Deployment Accuracy and Technological Availability (DATA) Act: Requires the FCC to collect granular service availability data from wired, fixed wireless, and satellite broadband providers. Requires strongparameters for service availability data collected from mobile broadband providers to ensure accuracy. Asks the FCC to consider whether to collect verified coverage data from state, local, and tribal governments, as well as from other entities. Creates a process for consumers, state, local, and Tribal governments, and other groups to challenge FCC maps with their own data, and requires the FCC to determine how to structure the process without making it overly burdensome on challengers. The bill is endorsed by NTCA-The Rural Broadband Association, USTelecom, NCTA-The Internet Cable Association, Competitive Carriers Association, and CTIA. For the full bill text, click here. As a m… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.smith.senate.gov/us-senators-smith-collins-bipartisan-bill-combat-lyme-and-other-tick-borne-diseases-advances U.S. Senators Smith & Collins’ Bipartisan Bill to Combat Lyme and Other Tick-Borne Diseases Advances 2019-12-17 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Tina Smith S001203 www.smith.senate.gov     legacy Kay Hagan Tick Act Set to Become Law as Part of Key Government Spending Package WASHINGTON, D.C. [12/17/19]U.S. Senators Tina Smith (D-Minn.) and Susan Collins (R-Maine) announced that their bipartisan bill to improve research, prevention, diagnostics, and treatment for tick-borne diseases was included in the government spending agreement released yesterday. Once passed by both the House and Senate, the bill will proceed to the President's desk to be signed into law. The Kay Hagan Tick Actunites the effort to confront the alarming public health threat posed by Lyme disease and other tick-borne diseases, which have risen exponentially from approximately 30,000 cases in 2003 to an estimated 450,000 last year. Sens. Smith and Collins renamed the bill in honor of former Senator Kay Hagan, who passed away in October due to complications from the tick-borne disease known as the Powassan virus. I've said that for the sake of Americans' health and well-being, we need to move this bill forward. My hope is that our bipartisan bill quickly passes the House and Senate so it can go to the President's desk and be signed into law,said Sen. Smith.The number of Lyme disease cases is on the rise, and we need to address this so Minnesotans can continue to enjoy spending time outside exploring our parks, swimming and boating in our lakes, and hiking in our forests safely. The inclusion of theTick Actin the appropriations agreement is a major victory for the hundreds of thousands of Americans who contract Lyme and other tick-borne illnesses each year. I am grateful for the countless advocates who shared their struggles with these diseases and conveyed the urgent need for this comprehensive, bipartisan bill,said Sen. Collins.With a national effort theTICK Actwould establish, we can stop the spread of these devastating tick-borne illnesses and protect our health. I was misdiagnosed by 23 doctors and specialists to the tune of $250,000 before getting an official diagnosis and proper treatment,said Paula Jackson Jones, President and Co-… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://collinpeterson.house.gov/media/newletter-archive/rep-petersons-newsletter-12162019 Rep. Peterson's Newsletter 12/16/2019 2019-12-16 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Collin Peterson P000258 collinpeterson.house.gov     legacy Air Force Appointee Madyson Ohren and Family (MOORHEAD) Dear Friends, After months of discussions with trade representatives and my other Members of Congress, the Administration has finalized an agreement on the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which preserves markets and makes gains for various industries. I have been pushing for months to get this deal to the finish line and I am glad to get this done for producers, farmers, businesses, and workers in Western Minnesota. On Thursday, the House voted to pass the Farm Workforce Modernization Act, which is bipartisan legislation that will provide a reliable and legal source of workers for farms and reform visa programs. I am proud to be a cosponsor of this bipartisan bill that provides stability and fairness for farmers and ranchers. The Agriculture Committee also held a Member Day Hearing, where Members from outside the of the Committee were invited highlight important agriculture issues facing their constituents. I was glad to hear about issues impacting the farming community, and I am committed to ensuring that these communities have strong voices in Congress. I was happy to call Madyson Ohren and congratulate her on her appointment to the Air Force Academy. Service Academy Appointments are one of my favorite parts of this job, and I look forward to hearing about Madyson's bright future. Sincerely, Congressman Collin C. Peterson Minnesota 7th District Serving the 7th This week, Senator John Hoeven (ND), Minn-Dak Farmers Cooperative CEO Kurt Wickstrom and I met with USDA Under Secretary Bill Northey to outline the challenges facing sugarbeet growers and cooperatives. The meeting was another step toward finding assistance for producers facing losses from sugar beets left in the ground. Under Secretary Northey has surveyed the conditions farmers in Minnesota face during harvest and he knows firsthand what issues producers are dealing with. Securing disaster assistance for sugar producers is critical and I am hopeful after last Tuesday's meeting … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=1884BCDA-AE76-4023-BFB4-F65049A1FDFD Klobuchar, Schatz, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Protect Personal Data Online 2019-12-16 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Amy Klobuchar K000367 www.klobuchar.senate.gov     legacy Data Care Act will Stop Websites and Apps from Using Personal Data to Harm Consumers, Protect Consumer Information from Hacks, and Hold Companies Accountable for Misuse of Data WASHINGTON U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) joined Senator Brian Schatz (D-HI) and 14 colleagues in reintroducing legislation to protect people's personal data online. The Data Care Act would require websites, apps, and other online providers to take responsible steps to safeguard personal information and stop the misuse of users' data. It is clear that we must do more to protect Americans' privacy. Online platforms are collecting an enormous amount of personal data on consumers everything from what we buy and what websites we go to, to what our emails say and where we go throughout the day. Our laws must keep up with advances in technology, Klobuchar said. The Data Care Act will ensure that companies secure consumers' sensitive data and give the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) the tools to hold companies accountable when they fall short. People have a basic expectation that the personal information that is collected by websites and apps is well-protected and won't be used to harm them. Just as doctors and lawyers are expected to protect and responsibly use the personal data they hold, online companies should be required to do the same. Our bill will help make sure that when people give online companies their information, it won't be abused, Schatz said. Doctors, lawyers, and bankers are legally required to exercise special care to protect their clients and not misuse their information. While online companies also hold personal and sensitive information about the people they serve, they are not required to protect consumers' data. This leaves consumers in a vulnerable position; they are expected to understand the information they give to providers and how it is being used an unreasonable expectation for even the most tech-savvy consumer. By establishing an explicit duty for online providers, consumers can trust that their online d… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.smith.senate.gov/us-senators-smith-tillis-bill-extend-terrorism-risk-insurance-program-nears-passage-senate-house U.S. Senators Smith & Tillis’ Bill to Extend Terrorism Risk Insurance Program Nears Passage by Senate, House 2019-12-16 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Tina Smith S001203 www.smith.senate.gov     legacy Measure Would Make it Possible for Businesses to Continue to Grow and Create Jobs, Support Institutions Hosting Major Events WASHINGTON, D.C. [12/16/2019]Today,U.S. SenatorsTina Smith (D-Minn.)and Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) secured inclusion of their bipartisan bill to extend the Terrorism Risk Insurance Program for seven years as part of a key government funding packageexpected to pass Congress this week. Last month, the Senate Banking Committee unanimously passed the legislation. During Committee consideration,Sen. Smith highlightedhow the Terrorism Risk Insurance Act (TRIA) makes it possible for Minnesota to host major events, including the 2018 Super Bowl which generated more than $350 million for the state's economy. The Terrorism Risk Insurance Program was established in response tothescarcity of affordable insurance coverage for terrorism riskin the wake of the attacksonSeptember 11, 2001. Since then, theprogram has improved the availability and affordability of terrorism risk insurance coverage in the marketplace througha public/private partnership that allows the federal government and the insurance industry to share losses in the event of a major terrorist attack. The program ensures that adequate resources are available for businesses to recover and rebuild if they are the victims of a terrorist attack. Under TRIA, all property and casualty insurers in the U.S. are required to make terrorism coverage available. Without the Terrorism Risk Insurance Program, which is scheduled to expire at the end of 2020, major building projects and other key events could be halted or delayed, causing lost jobs and economic activity. The bill is supported by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the Insurance Federation of Minnesota, the Coalition to Insure Against Terrorism, the Reinsurance Association of America, Prudential, the National Association of Insurance Commissioners, the National Association of Realtors, the American Bankers Association and the American Property Casualty Insurance Association. I've been focused on workin… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=21099A26-539C-4398-ACDC-7CCC5CAF3BD2 Klobuchar, Crapo Bill to Crack Down on Robocalls Clears Commerce Committee 2019-12-13 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Amy Klobuchar K000367 www.klobuchar.senate.gov     legacy The Data Analytics Robocall Technology (DART) Act would direct the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to ensure public safety calls are not blocked WASHINGTON This week, U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Mike Crapo (R-ID) announced that their legislation to crack down on robocalls has passed out of the Senate Commerce Committee. The Data Analytics Robocall Technology (DART) Act would direct the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to conduct a rulemaking to consider maintaining a critical call list to ensure that public safety calls are not impacted by call-blocking technologies. Most robocalls aren't just unwanted and disruptive they are illegal, Klobuchar said. Our legislation to expand the Federal Communications Commission's (FCC's) efforts to combat illegal robocalls passed the Commerce Committee. The DART Act would ensure that public safety calls are not blocked and direct the FCC to report to Congress on the effectiveness of call-blocking technologies. I look forward to this bill passing the full Senate and becoming law to protect consumers. Americans know these scams are out of control, Crapo said. Last year, robocalls increased by 47 percent, resulting in more than 26 billion robocalls. The DART Act gives us the opportunity to review call blocking programs and provides us opportunities to keep up and stop this fraudulent menace. Specifically, the bill would prevent the following types of numbers from being blocked: Numbers used for outgoing calls by public safety answering points or other facilities that route emergency calls; Numbers used for calls by government entities; Numbers used by schools to provide school-related notifications, including weather-related closings or emergencies; and Numbers used for similar or emergency purposes, as determined by the FCC. The bill would also require the FCC to submit a report to Congress on the effectiveness of call-blocking technologies. As a member of the Senate Commerce Committee and Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Subcomm… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=8FC3F0CC-9D5F-42E0-B0B4-C993B74EE84C Klobuchar, Smith Seek Answers Following Deadly Public Housing Fire 2019-12-13 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Amy Klobuchar K000367 www.klobuchar.senate.gov     legacy Senators are seeking answers after five Minnesotans were killed and four were injured in a tragic fire in a high-rise public housing building WASHINGTON U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Tina Smith (D-MN) sent a letter to U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Secretary Ben Carson seeking answers after five Minnesotans were killed and four were injured in a tragic fire in a high-rise public housing building that did not have fire sprinkler systems installed on its upper floors. While the cause of the fire has not yet been determined, it is clear that the upper floors of the building, where the fatal fire began, did not have sprinkler systems installed. Unfortunately, the vulnerability of this and other high-rise buildings that lack full sprinkler systems was recognized by the Minneapolis Public Housing Authority (MPHA) prior to the outbreak of the fire, but MPHA, like many public housing authorities, has limited funding available to address these maintenance needs. In the letter, the senators asked what steps the Department is taking to encourage public housing authorities to install sprinkler systems, whether this safety issue will be a priority as the Department sets its budget, and how Congress can assist the Department in encouraging public housing authorities to retrofit high-rise buildings with full sprinkler systems. This is a tragic loss for not only the families of the victims of the fire, but the entire Cedar-Riverside community, the senators wrote. Fire sprinkler systems are widely recognized as an essential element of fire safety and properly installed sprinklers on all floors of the building may have mitigated the devastation caused by this fire. The full text of the letter can be found HERE and below: Secretary Carson: We write to request information relating to fire sprinkler installation in public housing buildings overseen by the U.S. Department of Housing Urban Development (HUD). As you are aware, five Minnesotans were killed and four were injured in a tragic fire that rav… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=CCCECBEA-C0DE-426C-8569-7EBC3ECB2CA1 Klobuchar Statement on Reported Legal Action from Justice Department against Live Nation for Ticketing Violations 2019-12-13 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Amy Klobuchar K000367 www.klobuchar.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Antitrust, Competition Policy and Consumer Rights, issued this statement following reports that the Justice Department is preparing to take legal action against Live Nation Entertainment Inc. on allegations that the company has been flouting the conditions of a 2010 consent decree that cleared the way for a merger with Ticketmaster. In August, Klobuchar and Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) urged the Department to conduct an investigation into the state of competition in the ticketing marketplace given concerns that the company was ignoring the 2010 consent decree, which had already been criticized as ineffective. Americans purchase millions of tickets each year and shouldn't be forced to pay sky-high prices because of corporate greed in a broken ticketing industry. As I have expressed time and again, the online ticket markets don't work for American consumers. Lack of competition due to excessive consolidation has led to inadequate disclosures and inflated fees when people go to purchase tickets to live events. Live Nation's dominance in the sector raises serious antitrust concerns.I'm glad that the Department of Justice is preparing to take action to ensure compliance with the Ticketmaster/Live Nation consent decree following my requests to look into potential anticompetitive behavior in the ticketing industry. In her role as Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Antitrust, Competition Policy and Consumer Rights, Senator Klobuchar has championed efforts to protect consumers, promote competition, and fight consolidation in major industrial sectors, including the telecommunications, technology, agriculture, and pharmaceutical sectors. She has called for strong antitrust review and enforcement to protect consumers from mergers that threaten to raise prices or harm competition, including the Comcast/Time Warner Cable, AT&T/Time Warner Inc., Anheuser-Busch/Miller-Coors, and T-Mobile/Sprint, a… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=D1F9E27B-6187-4800-8579-816016A2102D Klobuchar, Shaheen, 24 Colleagues Urge Administration to Reconsider Paris Climate Accord Withdrawal 2019-12-13 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Amy Klobuchar K000367 www.klobuchar.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON This week, U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), and 24 of their colleagues urged the administration to reconsider the decision to withdraw the United States from the Paris Climate Agreement. In a letter, Klobuchar and her colleagues highlighted the crisis of climate change and the damage that will be inflicted on Americans for future generations unless immediate action is taken. The Senators urged the administration against ceding U.S. leadership on this issue. The letter was sent as the 25th United Nations Climate Change conference takes place in Madrid this week. As the second largest global emitter of greenhouse gases, and the largest historical emitter, it is imperative that the United States assume our rightful place as a global leader in the fight to combat climate change, yet with this action you are ceding American leadership to other nations at great political and economic costs. the senators wrote. There is an international race to develop advanced energy technologies. Instead of capitalizing on this economic opportunity, this action to no longer participate in the Paris Climate Agreement places U.S. companies at a competitive disadvantage and effectively offshores American jobs to China and other countries, Moreover, the blow dealt to our national security by surrendering technological prowess to other countries is matched only by the damage caused by abdicating our international commitments made under the Paris Climate Agreement. In addition to Klobuchar and Shaheen, the letter was signed by Senators Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Chris Coons (D-DE), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Jack Reed (D-RI), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Tom Udall (D-NM), Angus King (I-ME), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Ben Cardin (D-MD), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Patty Murray (D-WA), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Bob Casey (D-PA), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Brian Sch… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.smith.senate.gov/klobuchar-smith-seek-answers-following-deadly-public-housing-fire Klobuchar, Smith Seek Answers Following Deadly Public Housing Fire 2019-12-13 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Tina Smith S001203 www.smith.senate.gov     legacy Senators are seeking answers after five Minnesotans were killed and four were injured in a tragic fire in a high-rise public housing building WASHINGTON U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Tina Smith (D-MN) sent a letter to U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Secretary Ben Carson seeking answersafterfive Minnesotans were killed and four were injured in a tragic firein a high-rise public housing building that did not have fire sprinkler systems installed on its upper floors. While the cause of the fire has not yet been determined, it is clear that the upper floors of the building, where the fatal fire began, did not have sprinkler systems installed. Unfortunately, the vulnerability of this and other high-rise buildings that lack full sprinkler systems was recognized by the Minneapolis Public Housing Authority (MPHA) prior to the outbreak of the fire, butMPHA, like many public housing authorities, has limited funding available to address these maintenance needs. In the letter, the senators asked what steps the Department is taking to encourage public housing authorities to install sprinkler systems, whether this safety issue will be a priority as the Department sets its budget, and how Congress can assist the Department in encouraging public housing authorities to retrofit high-rise buildings with full sprinkler systems. This is a tragic loss for not only the families of the victims of the fire, but the entire Cedar-Riverside community,the senators wrote.Fire sprinkler systems are widely recognized as an essential element of fire safety and properly installed sprinklers on all floors of the building may have mitigated the devastation caused by this fire. The full text of the letter can be foundHEREand below: Secretary Carson: We write to request information relating to fire sprinkler installation in public housing buildings overseen by the U.S. Department of Housing Urban Development (HUD). As you are aware, five Minnesotans were killed and four were injured in a tragic fire that ravaged a 25-stor… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://collinpeterson.house.gov/media/press-releases/peterson-applauds-house-passage-bipartisan-farm-workforce-modernization-act Peterson applauds House passage of Bipartisan Farm Workforce Modernization Act 2019-12-12 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Collin Peterson P000258 collinpeterson.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC Today, the Farm Workforce Modernization Act, a bipartisan bill spearheaded by Reps. Zoe Lofgren (D-CA-19) and Dan Newhouse (R-WA-04), passed the U.S. House of Representatives with a 260-165 vote. The need for a reliable and legal source of workers is a top priority for the agriculture industry, and I am proud to support the bipartisan Farm Worker Modernization Act, which is a significant improvement for rural America. This bill is great for our dairy industry, but we still need to address meat and poultry processing workforce needs going forward. I want to thank Ms. Lofgren, Mr. Newhouse, and the bipartisan group of Members for their hard work in getting us to this point, said House Agriculture Committee Chairman Collin Peterson. The bipartisan effort was negotiated over eight months with input from agricultural stakeholders and labor organizations and was introduced with the support of 26 Democrats and 23 Republicans. Click here for a one-pager and click here for bill text. Leaders from the dairy industry in the Seventh District and across Minnesota voiced their support for the bill as well, thanking Chairman Peterson for his leadership on the issue. The full list of cosponsors includes: Rep. Mark Amodei (R-NV-02); Rep. James Baird (R-IN- 04); Rep. Karen Bass (D-CA-37); Rep. Anthony Brindisi (D-NY-22); Rep. Susan W. Brooks (R-IN-05); Rep. Salud Carbajal (D-CA-24); Rep. Tony Cardenas (D-CA-29); Rep. Judy Chu (D-CA-27); Rep. Tom Cole (R-OK-04); Rep. Luis J. Correa (D-CA-46); Rep. Jim Costa (D-CA-16); Rep. TJ Cox (D-CA-21); Rep. Angie Craig (D-MN-02); Rep. Jason Crow (D-CO-6); Rep. Henry Cuellar (D-TX-28); Rep. John Curtis(R-UT-03); Rep. David Scott (D-GA-13); Rep. Rodney Davis (R-IL-13); Rep. Antonio Delgado (D-NY-19); Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart (R-FL-25); Rep. Veronica Escobar (D-TX-16); Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-1); Rep. Marcia Fudge (D-OH-11); Rep. John Garamendi (D-CA-3); Rep. Sylvia Garcia (D-TX-29); Rep. Bob Gibbs (R-OH-07); Rep. Josh Harder (D-CA-10); Rep. Ron Kind (D-WI-3); Rep. Peter King (… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-angie-craig-continues-work-lower-cost-health-care-minnesotans Congresswoman Angie Craig Continues Work To Lower The Cost of Health Care For Minnesotans 2019-12-12 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Angie Craig C001119 craig.house.gov     legacy U.S. Rep. Angie Craig reiterated her commitment to lower the cost of health care and expand access for Minnesota families after the Medicare-X Choice Act of 2019 received a key hearing in the Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health this week. The Medicare-X Choice Act of 2019, cosponsored by Rep. Craig, would allow Medicare to negotiate its drug pricing and create a public health insurance option for Minnesota families. It would increase competition in the individual marketplace for Minnesota families by establishing a public option health plan to compete with large insurance companies. The bill also contains tax provisions to incentivize more families to get covered, allows the Secretary of Health and Human Services to negotiate Medicare prescription drug prices, and creates a reinsurance program to lower health insurance costs, similar to Rep. Craig's bill, the State Healthcare Premium Reduction Act. I've traveled across the district and heard from cancer patients and survivors, Alzheimer's caregivers, Type 1 diabetics, community health advocates, and providers from all across the district, Rep. Angie Craig. That's why I'm proud to see the Medicare-X Choice Act of 2019 receiving the consideration it deserves under the leadership of Chairwoman Eshoo. I urge my colleagues to join me in taking immediate action to reduce the cost of health insurance and prescription drugs for hard-working Americans. Rep. Craig has introduced or cosponsored 59 bills to lower the cost of health care and prescription drugs. Those include her introductions of the State Healthcare Premium Reduction Act, which would lower health insurance costs in the individual market; the PRICED Act, which would increase competition for more affordable generic drugs; and the Emergency Access to Insulin Act, which would create emergency insulin supplies and hold big drug companies accountable for jacking up prices. Additionally, she has held six health care listening sessions across the district in Eagan, Burnsville, Northfield, Wabasha, Shakopee, an… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-angie-craig-votes-pass-historic-drug-pricing-bill Rep. Angie Craig Votes to Pass Historic Drug Pricing Bill 2019-12-12 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Angie Craig C001119 craig.house.gov     legacy Today, U.S. Rep. Angie Craig voted to pass the Elijah E. Cummings Lower Drug Costs Now Act, which would save Minnesota families tens of thousands of dollars in prescription drug costs. Working families cannot wait for action on the outrageous cost of prescription drugs, said Rep. Craig. I cosponsored this historic piece of legislation to put common-sense solutions in place to cap out-of-pocket costs for seniors, invest in research for more effective treatments, and hold big drug companies accountable for profiting off the backs of Minnesota families. It is now the Senate's turn to take up this essential piece of legislation. The Elijah E. Cummings Lower Drug Costs Now Act is estimated to save over $500 billion over ten years according to the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office. The bill would: Allow Medicare to negotiate prices for a minimum of 50 of the most expensive drugs and to extend the negotiated price to all health plans Create a $2,000 cap on out-of-pocket drug costs for seniors Expand Medicare benefits to include vision, dental, and hearing for the first time, which would benefit over 100,000 people in Minnesota's Second District alone Invest in research for new innovation, cures and treatments Rep. Craig has been leading the effort to lower the cost of health care and the price of prescription drugs since she was sworn in this past January. She has introduced or cosponsored 59 health care bills, including the State Healthcare Premium Reduction Act, which would lower insurance premiums in the individual market and the Emergency Access to Insulin Act, which would create emergency insulin supplies and hold big drug companies accountable for jacking up prices. Additionally, she has held six health care listening sessions across the district in Eagan, Burnsville, Northfield, Wabasha, Shakopee, and Red Wing to hear directly from constituents on their experiences with health care. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://emmer.house.gov/press-releases?ID=F961DAE1-D1AC-45DF-917D-3D89F0783D54 Aurelia Skipwith Confirmed to Lead USFWS 2019-12-12 2019 2019-12 Republican House MN Tom Emmer E000294 emmer.house.gov     legacy Facebook Icon Google Plus Icon Instagram Icon LinkedIn Icon Twitter Icon YouTube Icon Vimeo Icon Clients Icon Email icon Map Icon Print Icon Quote Icon icon_share Carousel Arrow - Left Carousel Arrow - Right 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://hagedorn.house.gov/media/press-releases/lowering-drug-costs-advance-cures Hagedorn Votes to Lower Drug Costs, Advance Cures 2019-12-12 2019 2019-12 Republican House MN Jim Hagedorn H001088 hagedorn.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON Rep. Jim Hagedorn (MN-01) today voted in favor of the Republican amendment offered by Rep. Greg Walden (R-OR) to a prescription drug pricing bill. The amendment consists entirely of previously agreed upon bipartisan reforms that reduce out of pocket spending, protect access to new treatments, improve price transparency and promote competition. Despite bipartisan support, the amendment was defeated by liberal Democrats in a 201-223 vote. Hagedorn voted against H.R. 3, a partisan bill that would impose government-controlled price-fixing on drugs risking future investments in medical research needed to develop new lifesaving drug treatments and therapies. The House passed this bill in a 230-192 vote. The Council of Economic Advisers estimates that over the next 10 years H.R. 3 would prevent up to 100 new drugs from entering the U.S. market, reducing Americans' average lifespan by an estimated four months. Additionally, the lack of new treatments and worsening health outcomes resulting from H.R. 3 could lead to economic costs exceeding $1 trillion in the ensuing decade. That number far surpasses any of the bill's projected savings. Lowering prescription drug prices is one of my top priorities. American taxpayers and consumers should not be subsidizing lower prescription drug prices overseas. We need price transparency and a One Drug, One Price' policy, so Americans do not pay more than Canadians, French and other industrialized nations for the same exact American-made drugs, said Hagedorn. I am proud to support the Republican amendment, which will reduce drug costs for patients, advance treatments for devastating diseases, and because it consists entirely of bipartisan principles, could actually become law. H.R. 3 does not align with these principles, as it imposes massive federal control of our economy, which is why the bill lacks broad bipartisan support, he continued. Jim Hagedorn was elected in 2018 to represent Minnesota's First District in the U.S. House of Representatives. He grew up on his famil… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/mccollum-statement-us-mexico-canada-trade-agreement McCollum Statement on U.S.-Mexico-Canada Trade Agreement 2019-12-12 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Betty McCollum M001143 mccollum.house.gov mccollum https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Congresswoman Betty McCollum (DFL-Minn.) released the following statement today after the United States-Mexico-Canada trade deal was announced: "After months of negotiations with the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR), House Democrats have come to an agreement regarding the United States-Mexico-Canada (USMCA) trade deal. While the initial proposal by the Trump administration fell woefully short of needed provisions to protect workers and consumers, House Democrats negotiated meaningful and transformative safeguards to ensure that the USMCA improves upon both the original NAFTA and the flawed proposal put forth by the Trump administration. The new agreement lays out stronger enforcement mechanisms to ensure that our trading partners are living up to their end of the deal; mandates stronger protections for workers; creates a new, robust system to effectively monitor compliance with the agreement's labor obligations; and includes strong, clear, and enforceable rules to protect the environment. This deal is truly a new standard for U.S. trade agreements, and a win for our economy and American families." 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-06-27T23:45:33Z
https://phillips.house.gov/media/press-releases/phillips-leads-push-state-and-local-tax-deduction-cap-repeal Phillips Leads the Push for State and Local Tax Deduction Cap Repeal 2019-12-12 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Dean Phillips P000616 phillips.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC Late yesterday, the House Ways and Means Committee took action to repeal a 2017 cap on state and local tax (SALT) deductions after hearing from Rep. Dean Phillips about the cap's harmful impact on Minnesota's Third Congressional District. The committee passed the Restoring Tax Fairness for States and Localities Act in a bipartisan 24-17 vote. Phillips is an original co-sponsor of the legislation, which eliminates the cap on SALT deductions in 2020 and 2021. The deficit-exploding 2017 tax bill capped SALT deductions at $10,000, penalizing residents of high-tax states like Minnesota. IRS Statistics on Income figures show that Phillips's district ranks 35th out of all 435 congressional districts as the most-impacted by the SALT cap and is the second-most harmed district in the Midwest. At 47%, Minnesota's Third District has the highest percentage of filers claiming the deduction in the state, and the highest average deduction about $20,000. Corporations, on the other hand, are allowed to deduct the entirety of their state and local tax payments from their federal taxes under the 2017 law. Our tax code should reflect our values, said Phillips. The 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act was an irresponsible sugar rush that blew a hole in the deficit and came at a time when Congress should have been encouraging real, fair, and long-lasting prosperity. The average tax filer in my district is being taxed twice on $10,000 of their annual income. That's outrageous and it's hurting economy, our schools, and our communities. I'm grateful to my colleagues on both sides of the aisle who listened when I shared Minnesota's story and came together to propose this common-sense fix. After Phillips brought his case to the House Ways and Means Committee in June, the committee fast-tracked the Restoring Tax Fairness for States and Localities Act, which includes: An elimination of the SALT deduction cap in 2020 and 2021, creating a bridge for a future administration to permanently reform the tax code An elimination of the marr… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=D9D16548-F8AB-485B-88A5-C09F41BEB233 Klobuchar Leads Senators in Pushing Internal Revenue Service to Reverse Decision that Protects Dark Money 2019-12-12 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Amy Klobuchar K000367 www.klobuchar.senate.gov     legacy Klobuchar is the Ranking Member of the Senate Rules Committee with jurisdiction over federal elections WASHINGTON U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ranking Member of the Senate Rules Committee with jurisdiction over federal elections, submitted a comment to the Commissioner of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) urging the agency to reverse their decision to rollback transparency requirements for dark money groups. For decades, the IRS and the Treasury Department have required 501(c)(4) groups that engage in issue advocacy to identify, confidentially, the names of individual donors who make significant financial contributions ($5,000 or more). Last year, the IRS announced it would stop requiring such disclosures and Klobuchar led a letter with every Democratic senator encouraging the IRS and Treasury Department to reconsider the rule change. Last month, the agency announced it would be moving forward with the change and issued a notice soliciting comments on the proposed rule. In the comment, Klobuchar and Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Ed Markey (D-MA), Jack Reed (D-RI), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Tina Smith (D-MN), Tom Udall (D-NM), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) once again strongly urged Commissioner Charles Rettig not to implement the new rule. Americans have a right to know who is paying to influence our democracy. Rolling back transparency standards is wrong and it undermines our political system, which rests on the idea that each voter has an equal say in our democracy. As foreign adversaries ramp up their efforts to target our elections and look for new ways to influence our democracy, we need stronger rules for transparency and accountability in campaign finance, not weaker ones. For these reasons, and the issues discussed below, we strongly urge you not to reject the proposed rule, the senators wrote. Both Congress and … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=E1F34542-B63A-4864-A768-63C3393F468E Klobuchar, Smith Announce Minnesota Dairy Producers Now Have Extended Time to Enroll in Dairy Margin Coverage Program 2019-12-12 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Amy Klobuchar K000367 www.klobuchar.senate.gov     legacy Enrollment Deadline for Market Facilitation Programs Has Also Been Extended WASHINGTON - U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Tina Smith (D-MN)both members of the Senate Agriculture Committeesaid that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has extended the enrollment deadline for the Dairy Margin Coverage(DMC)program to December 20 due totheprolonged and extensive impacts of weather.The USDA announced it is also continuing to accept applications for the Market Facilitation Program through December 20. The Senators said that theDMCprogram helps Minnesota dairy producers manage the volatility of milk and feed prices more affordably. Dairy farmers continue tostruggle with market instability and low prices, and they deserve our support during these tough times, Klobuchar said.I encourage all dairy farmers who are not yet enrolled in the Dairy Margin Coverage program for 2020to sign up before December 20. I worked to include strong support for farmers in the 2018 Farm Bill and know thatthe Dairy Margin Coverage extension as well as the Market Facilitation Program extension will allow additional time for farmers to evaluate how the programs will benefit their operation and help them get through the serious challenges they are facing. I'm glad that the Dairy Margin Coverage programhas been extended because we should be doing everything we can to support producers who've been hit hard by years of low prices,Smith said.I fought to strengthen the dairy safety net and improve assistance for small and medium-size farms in the 2018 Farm Bill because I know it makes a difference in rural communities. I encourage Minnesota dairy producers to take advantage of this opportunity as well the Market Facilitation Programs. TheDMC programoffers protection to dairy producers when the difference between the all-milk price and the average feed cost (the margin) falls below a certain dollar amount selected by the producer. All dairy operations in the United States are eligible for the DMC program. An operation can be run either… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=FA841C5B-C8B1-4A62-AB54-DD78F381206D Klobuchar, Smith Announce Over $22 Million in Funding to Help Minnesota Farmers Cut Energy Costs 2019-12-12 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Amy Klobuchar K000367 www.klobuchar.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Tina Smith (D-MN) announced that theU.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has awarded grant and loan funding to Minnesota totaling $22,140,048 to help farmers and rural businesses reduce energy costs through the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP). Grants totaling $1,109,430 have been awarded to 32 Minnesota projects and loans totaling $21,030,618 have been awarded to four Minnesota projects. Minnesota recipients can useREAPgrantsto install renewable energy systemslikebiofuelsorpower generation from wind, solar,orbiomass, for exampleand make energy efficiency improvements. Funds can also be used on energy storage projects and energy audits. Farmers and small businesses in rural communities often face higher energy costs due to low population densities and the need for long transmission lines. These Rural Energy for America Program grants and loans will improve access to reliable low-cost energy options and help Minnesotans reduce their energy costs with new renewable energy systems and energy efficiency upgrades, Klobuchar said. I fought to protect and expand REAP funding in both the 2014 and 2018 Farm Bills because the program helps drive rural economic development, increases the productivity and efficiency of farmers and small businesses, and expands the use of renewable energy. I've visited the The Haubenschild Dairy Family Farm in Princeton which deploys a waste-to-energy biodigester to cut costs, encourage homegrown energy and help keep their operation strong, Smith said. I led the effort in last year's Farm Bill to strengthen REAP because I want to see more of this happening around the state. Minnesota leads the nation in using REAP funding because our state's farmers, ranchers and rural businesses know that it cuts costs, creates jobs and strengthens their communities. The 2018 Farm Bill included several of Klobuchar's priorities, including provisions to create an animal disease vaccine bank and disaster response program, provide more coverage and … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.smith.senate.gov/klobuchar-smith-announce-over-22-million-funding-help-minnesota-farmers-cut-energy-costs Klobuchar, Smith Announce Over $22 Million in Funding to Help Minnesota Farmers Cut Energy Costs 2019-12-12 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Tina Smith S001203 www.smith.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Tina Smith (D-MN) announced that theU.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has awarded grant and loan funding to Minnesota totaling $22,140,048 to help farmers and rural businesses reduce energy costs through the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP). Grants totaling $1,109,430 have been awarded to 32 Minnesota projects and loans totaling $21,030,618 have been awarded to four Minnesota projects. Minnesota recipients can useREAPgrantsto install renewable energy systemslikebiofuelsorpower generation from wind, solar,orbiomass, for exampleand make energy efficiency improvements. Funds can also be used on energy storage projects and energy audits. Farmers and small businesses in rural communities often face higher energy costs due to low population densities and the need for long transmission lines. These Rural Energy for America Program grants and loans will improve access to reliable low-cost energy options and help Minnesotans reduce their energy costs with new renewable energy systems and energy efficiency upgrades,Klobuchar said.I fought to protect and expand REAP funding in both the 2014 and 2018 Farm Bills because the program helps drive rural economic development, increases the productivity and efficiency of farmers and small businesses, and expands the use of renewable energy. I've visited the The Haubenschild Dairy Family Farm in Princeton which deploys a waste-to-energy biodigester to cut costs, encourage homegrown energy and help keep their operation strong,Smith said. I led the effort in last year's Farm Bill to strengthen REAP because I want to see more of this happening around the state. Minnesota leads the nation in using REAP funding because our state's farmers, ranchers and rural businesses know that it cuts costs, creates jobs and strengthens their communities. The 2018 Farm Bill included several of Klobuchar's priorities, including provisions to create an animal disease vaccine bank and disaster response program, provide more coverage and more fle… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.smith.senate.gov/us-senator-tina-smiths-priorities-included-legislation-protect-children-support-health-care U.S. Senator Tina Smith’s Priorities Included in Legislation to Protect Children, Support Health Care Workforce 2019-12-12 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Tina Smith S001203 www.smith.senate.gov     legacy Senator Successfully Fights to Include Efforts to Connect Child Welfare System with Mental Health Services, Help Small Towns and Rural Areas Recruit and Retain Health Professionals in Legislative Package WASHINGTON, D.C. [12/12/19]U.S. Senator Tina Smith (D-Minn.) successfully worked to include her key priorities in legislation passed by the Senate Health Committee today that would make sure the child welfare system supports and connects families to needed mental health services, and help recruit and support health professionals in underserved and rural areas. TheChild Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act(CAPTA) was enacted 45 years ago and governs important child protection programs and services to prevent, assess, and identify child abuse and neglectand it is the only federal program exclusively dedicated to these aims.Earlier this year, Sen. Smith introducedSupporting Family Mental Health inCAPTAActto improve the delivery of mental health services for children and families, connect families with needed support services, support research on effective practices to prevent child abuse and neglect and address disparities in the child welfare system. Sen. Smith worked hard to ensure several provisions of her bill are included in CAPTA, which is due to be reauthorized and which the Senate HELP Committee voted unanimously to advance today. All children deserve a strong start in life which begins with safe, stable and nurturing relationships and environments. When I talk with people about how Minnesota's children are doing, so many are worried about the mental health challenges and trauma that children and families are facing. If we don't address trauma that some families and children go through, the cycle can continue through adulthood and onto future generations. That's why I'm pleased to see several of the provisions in my bill included in the CAPTA Reauthorization, which we marked up today,said Sen. Smith.When we connect families to the local services they need and we really work to support parents, families are st… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.smith.senate.gov/us-senators-klobuchar-smith-announce-minnesota-dairy-producers-now-have-extended-time-enroll-dairy U.S. Senators Klobuchar, Smith Announce Minnesota Dairy Producers Now Have Extended Time to Enroll in Dairy Margin Coverage Program 2019-12-12 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Tina Smith S001203 www.smith.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C. [12/12/2019]U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith (D-Minn.)both members of the Senate Agriculture Committeesaid that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has extended the enrollment deadline for the Dairy Margin Coverage(DMC)program to December 20 due totheprolonged and extensive impacts of weather.The USDA announced it is also continuing to accept applications for the Market Facilitation Program through December 20. The Senators said that theDMCprogram helps Minnesota dairy producers manage the volatility of milk and feed prices more affordably. Dairy farmers continue tostruggle with market instability and low prices, and they deserve our support during these tough times,said Sen. Klobuchar.I encourage all dairy farmers who are not yet enrolled in the Dairy Margin Coverage program for 2020to sign up before December 20. I worked to include strong support for farmers in the 2018 Farm Bill and know thatthe Dairy Margin Coverage extension as well as the Market Facilitation Program extension will allow additional time for farmers to evaluate how the programs will benefit their operation and help them get through the serious challenges they are facing. I'm glad that the Dairy Margin Coverage programhas been extended because we should be doing everything we can to support producers who've been hit hard by years of low prices,said Sen. Smith.I fought to strengthen the dairy safety net and improve assistance for small and medium-size farms in the 2018 Farm Bill because I know it makes a difference in rural communities. I encourage Minnesota dairy producers to take advantage of this opportunity as well the Market Facilitation Programs. TheDMC programoffers protection to dairy producers when the difference between the all-milk price and the average feed cost (the margin) falls below a certain dollar amount selected by the producer. All dairy operations in the United States are eligible for the DMC program. An operation can be run either by a single producer or multiple producers who commercially … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.smith.senate.gov/us-senators-tina-smith-and-susan-collins-bipartisan-wind-energy-legislation-one-step-closer U.S. Senators Tina Smith and Susan Collins’ Bipartisan Wind Energy Legislation One Step Closer to Becoming Law 2019-12-12 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Tina Smith S001203 www.smith.senate.gov     legacy Senators Say Bill Would Sustain and Enhance Department of Energy's Office of Wind Energy, Support American Jobs WASHINGTON, D.C. [12/12/19]Today U.S. Senators Tina Smith (D-Minn.) and Susan Collins (R-Maine) said that their bipartisan wind energy research and development legislation passed out of the Senate Energy Committee. This gets their bill over a major hurdle on its way to becoming law. Senator Smith and Collins' legislation, theWind Energy Research and Development Act of 2019, would renew and expand the Department of Energy's (DOE) Office of Wind Energy and award competitive grants to improve the energy efficiency, reliability and capacity of wind energy generation. Today's committee action shows that both sides of the aisle recognize the importance of investing in wind energy,saidSen.Smith.As anational leader in wind energy, Minnesota knows that it offers large economic and environmentalbenefits.We're home to the two largest wind construction companies in the country, and nearly 20 percent ofour state'selectricity last year was generated fromwind turbines. Senator Collins' and my bipartisan bill makes sense because wind energy is a rural economic engine, it's good for the environment and it's the cheapest way to add new electricity to the electrical grid. Within 50 miles of the U.S. coast, there is enough offshore wind capacity to power our country four times over. Offshore wind projects, such as Aqua Ventus at the University of Maine, have the potential to support more than 2,000 good-paying jobs in our state,saidSen.Collins.Our bipartisan bill would encourage and accelerate the excellent wind energy research being done on new technologies that will enable businesses to continue to develop this clean source of power, including off the coast of Maine. The wind energy sector supports more than 114,000 American jobs and provides more than $1 billion in revenue each year for states and local communities. Sens. Smith and Collins say that federal support for wind research and development has already delivered… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://collinpeterson.house.gov/media/press-releases/chairman-peterson-opening-statement-house-agriculture-committee-member-day Chairman Peterson Opening Statement at House Agriculture Committee Member Day 2019-12-11 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Collin Peterson P000258 collinpeterson.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON- House Agriculture Committee Chairman Collin Peterson delivered the following opening statement at today's House Agriculture Committee Member Day. [As Prepared for Delivery] "Thank you to all the Members who have joined us for today's Member Day Hearing. "Agriculture has a strong foundation in our nation's history, and the House Ag Committee has a proud history of working together to advance legislation needed to ensure we continue to have thriving rural communities and the most productive food, fiber and fuel system in the world. "The jurisdiction of the Committee covers a wide range of topics related to agriculture and rural development. As Chairman, I have charged our subcommittee chairs and ranking members with giving these issues the time and attention they deserve. Jurisdiction over these issues often crosses over into other committees. I recognize the importance of working with Members outside of our Committee to find solutions to these issues. "It is no secret that farmers, ranchers and rural communities across the country are facing serious challenges. Rural communities have barriers to health care and broadband. Commodity prices have been on a roller coaster,andinput costs are continually rising.Erraticweather is destroying crops;andan unpredictable trade environment adds another level of stress. "I'm looking forward to hearing from the Members today on the issues impacting their constituents and their suggestions on how to address those issues." 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://collinpeterson.house.gov/media/press-releases/peterson-hoeven-continue-make-case-disaster-assistance-sugar-producers Peterson, Hoeven Continue to Make the Case for Disaster Assistance for Sugar Producers 2019-12-11 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Collin Peterson P000258 collinpeterson.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON Collin Peterson, Chairman of the House Agriculture Committee, andSenator John Hoeven, Chairman of the Senate Agriculture Appropriations Committee, this week continued their efforts to secure disaster assistance for sugar producers. The chairmen were joined by Minn-Dak Farmers Cooperative CEO Kurt Wickstrom at a meeting with U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Under Secretary Bill Northey to outline the challenges facing sugarbeet growers. The leaders made the case for providing disaster assistance to sugar producers who face substantial losses after severe weather prevented them from harvesting their crop. Current disaster programs do not account for the budgeting constraints and unique structure of cooperatives, which is why Hoeven and Peterson are working with USDA to secure disaster assistance. This meeting is another step in finding assistance for those producers facing losses for sugar beets left in the ground," Peterson said. Undersecretary Northey has surveyed the conditions farmers in Minnesota faced during harvest and knows firsthand what our producers are facing. Securing disaster assistance for sugar producers is critical and I am hopeful after Tuesday's meeting that we're on track to getting this done. Our meeting continues our efforts to provide disaster assistance to producers impacted by the severe weather that prevented them from harvesting crops, said Hoeven. Given the unique challenges facing our sugar producers who were forced to leave their crop in the ground due to the late rain and early snow, we again made the case to USDA to provide them with much-needed disaster assistance. Peterson and Hoeven have been working to secure disaster assistance for sugar producers, including meeting with sugar growers in Moorhead at the end of November and earlier hosting Under Secretary Northey in North Dakota to meet with farmers and ranchers impacted by severe weather. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases/us-reps-craig-meadows-bustos-and-gianforte-introduce-bill-tackle-government U.S. Reps. Craig, Meadows, Bustos, and Gianforte Introduce Bill to Tackle Government Waste 2019-12-11 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Angie Craig C001119 craig.house.gov     legacy Today, U.S. Reps. Angie Craig, Mark Meadows (NC-11), Cheri Bustos (IL-17), and Greg Gianforte (MT - At large) introduced a bipartisan bill that would save significant taxpayer dollars by cutting down on government waste in the form of overpayments, underpayments, improperly documented payments or payments made to ineligible recipients. In FY2018 alone, the Government Accountability Office estimated that improper payments throughout the federal government totaled over $151 billion. Since 2003, when agencies were first directed to begin reporting improper payments, cumulative improper payment estimates across government have totaled over $1.4 trillion. As our national debt reaches an all-time high, I'm proud to be introducing the commonsense Payment Integrity Information Act of 2019 with a bipartisan group of my colleagues, Congresswoman Craig said. Hard-working Minnesotans deserve this commonsense solution to ensure their taxpayer dollars are treated with the utmost respect and put to use for them in their communities. I look forward to this bill's swift passage in the House. The level of improper payments that our government authorizes is staggering and it encompasses virtually the entire federal government, Congressman Mark Meadows said. Congress has an obligation to the taxpayers to step up and fix it. I applaud my colleagues for their willingness to work on a bipartisan basis. Taxpayers deserve to know that we're protecting their hard earned dollars and ensuring they are not improperly spent or mismanaged, Congresswoman Cheri Bustos said. That's why I'm proud to join this bipartisan group of colleagues to put forward a solution that cuts through red tape and delivers real reform to strengthen the government's management of taxpayer dollars. Every year, the federal government makes billions of dollars in improper payments to dead people, Congressman Greg Gianforte said. This bipartisan bill provides government agencies with tools to work together to ensure the government doesn't send checks to dead people in t… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://hagedorn.house.gov/media/press-releases/amendment-help-small-businesses-included-passage-ndaa Hagedorn Amendment to Help Small Businesses Included in Passage of NDAA 2019-12-11 2019 2019-12 Republican House MN Jim Hagedorn H001088 hagedorn.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON Today, the House passed H.R. 2500, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2020 (NDAA), by a vote of 377-48. Rep. Jim Hagedorn (MN-01) voted yea. Included in the final version of the legislation was an amendment authored by Rep. Hagedorn to help small businesses by directing federal agencies to pay small contractors faster, easing the financial burden and costs of unpredictable payments. The amendment codifies a requirement that agencies pay contractors within a goal of 15 days after receiving proper invoice. Codifying this payment schedule will prevent tampering by future administrations and give small contractors a level playing field with federal contracts. Small businesses depend on access to steady cash flow. Inconsistent and delayed payments can result in unpaid employees and stifle the growth of small businesses and the creation of new jobs. Assurance of timely payments helps small businesses to flourish and engage in federal contracts. This stability also encourages new vendors to join the federal marketplace increasing competition and reducing the burden on taxpayers, said Hagedorn. The full text of the amendment can be found on pages 2,926 and 2,927 of the NDAA Conference Report. Jim Hagedorn was elected in 2018 to represent Minnesota's First District in the U.S. House of Representatives. He grew up on his family's grain and livestock farm near Truman. Jim's father, former U.S. Congressman Tom Hagedorn (MN-02), grandfather, and great-grandfather were all southern Minnesota farmers. Jim currently resides in the rural farming community of Blue Earth. Hagedorn brings policy experience to Capitol Hill from time spent as a congressional aide to former U.S. Congressman Arlan Stangeland (MN-07) and a congressional relations officer for two non-partisan U.S. Department of the Treasury agencies. Hagedorn serves on the House Committees on Agriculture and Small Business to promote farming, Main Street enterprises and southern Minnesota's way of life. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-ilhan-omar-statement-farm-workforce-modernization-act Rep. Ilhan Omar Statement on the Farm Workforce Modernization Act 2019-12-11 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Ilhan Omar O000173 omar.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTONRep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) issued the following statement on H.R. 5038 Farm Workforce Modernization Act of 2019: The Farm Workforce Modernization Act is a major step forward for our immigration system and our workers. There are currently 2.4 million farmworkers in this country, half of whom are undocumented. And agriculture creates 147,000 jobs in Minnesotamore than almost any other state. Under the Trump Administration, these workers are subject to routine abuse and violations of their basic rights. This bill provides a pathway for qualified undocumented farmworkers and their families to legalize their status, a major victory. I am particularly proud that the bill includes protections for temporary workers with H-2A visas, over 1,000 of whom work in my home state of Minnesota. I am disappointed the final bill includes E-Verify, a federal tracking database that will cause companies to hire even more people under the table than they currently do, making them more vulnerable to abuse. No food is cruelty free' with our current system. But by recognizing the vast human rights abuses that are ingrained into our food and agricultural system, this bill is a significant accomplishment. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-ilhan-omar-statement-national-defense-authorization-act Rep. Ilhan Omar Statement on National Defense Authorization Act 2019-12-11 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Ilhan Omar O000173 omar.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTONRep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) issued the following statement on the conference report for the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA): At a time when Minnesotans have unmet needs in healthcare, education and housing, it is simply unconscionable to pass a NDAA bill that continues to fund wasteful Pentagon spending to the tune of $738 billion. This bill commits the U.S. to endless involvement in the Saudi-led war in Yemen, continues funding for endless war under the 2001 AUMF, and does nothing to prevent the Administration from launching a disastrous war with Iran. Despite its deep flaws, I am glad the National Defense Authorization Act includes some of my priorities and the priorities of my district. I am grateful that all of the amendments I introduced and passed in the House version of the NDAA were included in the final bill. The final version contains my amendments requiring reporting on the process of sharing the Terrorist Screening Database with foreign countries, including human rights abusers. It also requires the Pentagon to provide guidance for contractors and servicemembers who witness gross human rights violations, requires reporting on the costs of overseas military operations, and does not authorize permanent military bases in Somaliaall based on amendments I introduced. Lastly, the final text includes a bill I am an original cosponsor of, the Liberian Immigrant Fairness Act, which would give thousands of Liberians in my district protection from deportation. It was introduced by David Cicilline and originally authored by my predecessor Keith Ellison. I am proud that all of our amendments were included, but it past time we stop putting our servicemembers and civilians in harm's way by writing blank checks for endless warsand passing budgets that are not a reflection of our values. For these reasons, I plan to vote no. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=872A7CD1-0265-437D-9972-1D9FA2AEBDB6 At Judiciary Committee Hearing, Klobuchar Questions Department of Justice’s Inspector General 2019-12-11 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Amy Klobuchar K000367 www.klobuchar.senate.gov     legacy Department of Justice's Own Inspector General Released the Report Monday Finding Conclusive Evidence of No Political Bias in Investigation's Origins WASHINGTON Today, at a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing, U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) highlighted conclusive evidence in the report from the Department of Justice's (DOJ) Inspector General (IG) that political bias did not affect the FBI's decision to investigate people associated with the Trump campaign and that the investigation was warranted. The report also found that the FBI did not improperly use confidential sources or undercover agents in its investigation. KLOBUCHAR: Does anything in your report call into question the assessment by FBI Director Ray that Russians' interference in our elections is ongoing, and that its interference in the 2018 midterms were a quote, dress rehearsal, end quote, for the 2020 elections? HOROWITZ: No, it doesn't. KLOBUCHAR: Does anything in your report call into question the finding in the special counsel's report that quote the Russian government perceived it would benefit from a Trump presidency and worked to secure that outcome? HOROWITZ: We don't take issue with any part of the special counsel's report now. KLOBUCHAR: Okay. Did you find any evidence that political bias or other improper considerations affected the FBI's decision to open the investigation into George Papadopoulos? HOROWITZ: No, we don't. KLOBUCHAR: Did you find any evidence that political bias or other improper considerations affected the decision to open the investigation into Paul Manafort? HOROWITZ: No, we don't. KLOBUCHAR: Did you find any evidence that political bias or other improper considerations affected the decision to open the investigation into Michael Flynn? HOROWITZ: We did not. KLOBUCHAR: Did you find any investigation that political bias or other improper considerations affected the decision to open the investigation into Carter Page? HOROWITZ: No, no documentary or testimonial evidence, or other evidence. KLOBUCHAR: So we … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://collinpeterson.house.gov/media/press-releases/chairman-peterson-celebrates-announcement-clearing-path-usmca Chairman Peterson Celebrates Announcement Clearing Path for USMCA 2019-12-10 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Collin Peterson P000258 collinpeterson.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON- House Agriculture Chairman Collin Peterson released the following statement today following the announcement of a deal between House Democrats and The White House on United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) I have been pushing for months to get this deal to the finish line, and this announcement is great news for farmers, businesses and workers in Western Minnesota and nationwide, saidPeterson. The threat of leaving NAFTA without a deal would have been devastating, and this deal provides needed certainty for our producers. This agreement makes updates to how the three countries will address biotechnology, and sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) issues. The USMCA also preserves the market our farmers are currently accessing while making modest gains for our dairy, poultry, and wheat growers in the Canadian market. Rural America has faced many hurdles and challenges with these trade wars, and passing the USMCA is a step in the right direction. Thomas J. Donohue, President and CEO of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Businesses of all shapes and sizes need sound, commonsense policy in place in order to get off the ground, grow, and succeed.On behalf of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce I thank Congressman Peterson for his leadership and strong support for USMCA and other pro-business policies.The Chamber appreciates the Congressman'scommonsense approach to legislation and policies that strengthen U.S. manufacturing and create a level playing field for American businesses. Kevin Paap, President of the Minnesota Farm Bureau,We appreciate Chairman Peterson's leadership on USMCA. We urge members of Congress to swiftly approve the USMCA agreement so that it can be ratified. Our farmers cannot wait any longer. This will bring much needed hope to farmers and rural America. These actions will signal to our trading partners that the U.S. is back in business in the international marketplace. Gary Wertish, President of the Minnesota Farmers Union, Minnesota Farmers Union thanks Congressman Peterson for his hard work negot… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://collinpeterson.house.gov/media/press-releases/chairmen-peterson-and-costa-statements-usmca Chairmen Peterson and Costa statements on USMCA 2019-12-10 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Collin Peterson P000258 collinpeterson.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON- House Agriculture Chairman Collin Peterson and House Agriculture Subcommittee on Livestock and Foreign Agriculture Chairman Jim Costa released the following statements today following the announcement of a deal between House Democrats and The White House on United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). I have been pushing for months to get this deal to the finish line, and this announcement is great news for farmers, businesses and workers, in Western Minnesota and nationwide, said Peterson. The threat of leaving NAFTA without a deal would have been devastating, and this deal provides needed certainty for our producers. This agreement makes updates to how the three countries will address biotechnology, and sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) issues. The USMCA also preserves the market our farmers are currently accessing while making modest gains for our dairy, poultry, and wheat growers in the Canadian market. Rural America has faced many hurdles and challenges with these trade wars, and passing the USMCA is a step in the right direction. Trade is vital to American agriculture, especially for the specialty crop,tree nut, dairy and livestock producers in the San Joaquin Valley and across California," said Costa. "The USMCA protects the access they had into the Canadian and Mexican markets, and provides nominal gains in some important areas. It's good to see that this deal strengthens labor and environmental standards and provides mechanisms to enforce this agreement. I am proud to support approval of the USMCA, but we also must recognize that going forward, incremental improvements and protecting the status quo won't reverse farmer losses as a result of the trade war. For that to happen, the Administration needs to remove its tariffs, which are the source of so much economic hardship for our farmers, and at the core of our depressed farm economy. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-angie-craig-s-statement-usmca-trade-agreement Congresswoman Angie Craigs Statement on USMCA Trade Agreement 2019-12-10 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Angie Craig C001119 craig.house.gov     legacy Today, U.S. Rep. Angie Craig released the following statement on the announcement of a USMCA trade agreement: I'm proud to announce that an agreement has been reached on USMCA that bolsters our economy, is good for family farmers, protects American workers, and improves access to affordable prescription drugs, said Rep. Angie Craig. Over the past few months I've heard from farmers and business owners about the need for a trade deal that opens up export markets, and I've pushed to make sure hard-working Minnesotans weren't given a false choice between open markets and affordable healthcare. I'm proud to have worked with my colleagues and U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer to make sure that big drug companies don't get away with inserting provisions that create less competition and higher prices. It's time to pass USMCA through the full House before the end of the year, and I look forward to voting for this important trade agreement. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://hagedorn.house.gov/media/press-releases/hagedorn-usmca-agreement-statement Hagedorn Statement on Agreement to Pass USMCA 2019-12-10 2019 2019-12 Republican House MN Jim Hagedorn H001088 hagedorn.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON Congressman Jim Hagedorn (MN-01) issued the following statement in response to the announcement of a bipartisan agreement to bring the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) to a vote on the House floor: As the first member of the Minnesota delegation to support USMCA, I am thrilled that the White House, Republican leadership and Speaker Pelosi were able to reach an agreement to finally deliver this much-needed and well-deserved win to our workers, businesses, farmers and families. USMCA will open new markets, expand economic opportunity and create new high-wage jobs, build momentum for trade deals with China and other nations, and help protect and promote our rural way of life in southern Minnesota. I expect USMCA to pass with overwhelming bipartisan support in the House, and I hope the Senate will move quickly to ratify the deal and send it to President Trump's desk so that the agreement can be implemented as quickly as possible for the American people. Jim Hagedorn was elected in 2018 to represent Minnesota's First District in the U.S. House of Representatives. He grew up on his family's grain and livestock farm near Truman. Jim's father, former U.S. Congressman Tom Hagedorn (MN-02), grandfather, and great-grandfather were all southern Minnesota farmers. Jim currently resides in the rural farming community of Blue Earth. Hagedorn brings policy experience to Capitol Hill from time spent as a congressional aide to former U.S. Congressman Arlan Stangeland (MN-07) and a congressional relations officer for two non-partisan U.S. Department of the Treasury agencies. Hagedorn serves on the House Committees on Agriculture and Small Business to promote farming, Main Street enterprises and southern Minnesota's way of life. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/mccollum-statement-announcement-articles-impeachment-against-president-trump McCollum Statement on Announcement of Articles of Impeachment Against President Trump 2019-12-10 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Betty McCollum M001143 mccollum.house.gov mccollum https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Congresswoman Betty McCollum (DFL-Minn.) released the following statement today after two articles of impeachment were announced in the U.S. House of Representatives: "The articles of impeachment announced today by the U.S. House of Representatives fulfill an obligation incumbent upon every Member of Congress to defend the Constitution, protect our national security, and ensure our democracy is not corrupted by a foreign power. For every Member of Congress, holding the President of the United States accountable to the Constitution and protecting our most fundamental democratic values is not a political decision based on loyalty or partisan affiliation. In fact, it is an inherent duty upon which we have sworn a sacred oath. "The sole person responsible for precipitating this impeachment process is Donald J. Trump. Mr. Trump's willful, flagrant, and corrupt misconduct is a betrayal of the public trust. At this historic and sober moment, the American people understand that as a nation of laws there can be no person, not even the President of the United States, who is above the law. Let these articles of impeachment also serve as a clear and unambiguous message to all future presidents: Congress, as a co-equal branch of government, will never tolerate or appease an abusive, corrupt executive. "With the power granted to the U.S. House under Article I, Section 2 of the U.S. Constitution (‘The House of Representatives…shall have the sole Power of Impeachment'), I intend to vote in favor of the resolution to impeach President Donald J. Trump for high crimes and misdemeanors." 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-06-27T23:45:33Z
https://phillips.house.gov/media/press-releases/phillips-touts-support-strong-bipartisan-usmca-trade-deal Phillips Touts Support for Strong, Bipartisan USMCA Trade Deal 2019-12-10 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Dean Phillips P000616 phillips.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC At a press conference today, Rep. Dean Phillips (MN-03) stood with House leaders to announce a strong and enforceable USMCA trade deal that will improve the American economy, safeguard workers' rights, protect the environment, and improve access to affordable prescription drugs. I'm on a mission to restore Americans' faith in our government, and the USMCA deal we announced today is exactly how our process should work, said Phillips. Republicans and Democrats in Congress, the White House, businesses, and labor organizations came together to forge a strong and solvent deal that is good for everyone. Whether it's increasing patients' access to affordable prescriptions, protecting workers, or keeping international markets open for Minnesota businesses this deal is proof that we all win when everyone comes to the table in good faith. Rep. Phillips was heavily involved in the passage of the trade deal, both through the bipartisan Problem Solvers Caucus and as an individual lawmaker. He pushed hard for fixes related to drug prices and labor enforcement, and convened a September meeting with Cargill CEO Dave MacLennan and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi in Washington to discuss the negotiations. Businesses in Phillips's Third District export $1 billion in goods and services to trade partners in Canada and Mexico every year and that trade supports more than 40,000 jobs. The new agreement comes after House leaders and the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) spent months working to improve the Trump Administration's original deal. Together, they secured critical updates, including: Open Markets ensures that markets in Mexico and Canada remain open to American businesses and job creators. Stronger enforcement closes enforcement loopholes and establishes rules to ensure that trading partners live up to their commitments Worker protections enacts mechanisms to ensure trading partners honor their commitments to protect workers from violence and labor violations Lower drug costs empowers Congress to make cheaper… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases/stauber-agreement-usmca-great-news-our-nation Stauber: Agreement on USMCA is Great News for Our Nation 2019-12-10 2019 2019-12 Republican House MN Pete Stauber S001212 stauber.house.gov stauber https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) made the following statement upon the news of an official agreement on the United States-Mexico-Canada (USMCA) Agreement. "Today's announcement of an agreement is great news for our nation, and long overdue. While President Trump negotiated this critical trade deal over a year ago, Speaker Pelosi delayed the vote on the USMCA in pursuit of partisan impeachment. After months of relentless advocacy from House Republicans, I am relieved Speaker Pelosi finally did the right thing for the nation and agreed to move forward with the USMCA. This trade agreement will expand our markets, add close to $63 billion to the economy, and create 176,000 new jobs- with thousands of jobs coming to Minnesota. I have supported this trade agreement from day one and I applaud President Trump for delivering this win to Minnesota's farmers, manufacturers, businesses, and families." ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-06-27T23:45:33Z
https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases/stauber-introduces-amendment-drastically-reduce-cost-insulin Stauber Introduces Amendment to Drastically Reduce Cost of Insulin 2019-12-10 2019 2019-12 Republican House MN Pete Stauber S001212 stauber.house.gov stauber https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) introduced an amendment to dramatically lower the cost of insulin at the pharmacy counter. Stauber introduced his amendment to the House Rules Committee to modify H.R. 3, the Lower Drug Costs Now Act. Of his amendment, Stauber stated, "Too often, I hear from Minnesotans who are struggling to cover the rising cost of insulin, which can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars a month. These high costs often force families and seniors to make the difficult choice between buying this critical medication or putting food on the table. As more and more individuals across the nation die from rationing insulin, I believe Members of Congress have a moral responsibility to act. My amendment will directly reduce the cost of this lifesaving drug and I strongly urge my colleagues to support it." Currently, insulin is one of the most rebated drugs on the market. Stauber's amendment would require rebates to go directly to the consumers rather than the middlemen, reducing the cost of insulin by up to 75 percent. It would also mandate a report to Congress on how this amendment impacts the cost of insulin and saves consumers money. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-06-27T23:45:33Z
https://collinpeterson.house.gov/media/newletter-archive/rep-petersons-newsletter-1292019 Rep. Peterson's Newsletter 12/9/2019 2019-12-09 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Collin Peterson P000258 collinpeterson.house.gov     legacy My Fall 2019 Intern Class Dear Friends, After the Thanksgiving break, the House of Representatives met to take action on a number of bills before the end of session, including voting on legislation to stop bad robocalls, another to protect citizen's right to vote in state with a history of election interference. I attended a Veterans' Affairs markup on pending legislation that focused on preventing veteran's suicide. I met with the national Milk Producers Association and also received the IDFA Leadership Award for my work on the 2018 Farm Bill and the Dairy Margin Coverage Program. I introduced the Stamp Out Lyme Disease Actwith Rep. Delgado, Rep. Smith, and Rep. Zeldin to fund future research, prevention, and treatment of tick-borne diseases. As co-chair of the Lyme Disease caucus, I know how important it is to support research and prevention programs for Lyme Disease. I am proud to announce that the CentraCare Health System was awarded a Department of Agriculture Rural Development Grant that will establish a telemedicine project to expand healthcare and education opportunities in rural Minnesota. Sincerely, Congressman Collin C. Peterson Minnesota 7th District Black Hawk Helicopter Crash Three National Guard soldiers on a maintenance test flight were killed Thursday afternoon when their helicopter crashed into a farm field about 16 miles southwest of St. Cloud. This is a tremendous loss for the Minnesota National Guard, our respective communities and most importantly, the family, friends and loved ones of these soldiers. The National Guard's mission is to maintain properly trained and equipped units and this is a tragic reminder of the risk they take everyday to serve. Serving the 7th TRACED Act I continue to hear from countless constituents about unwanted robocalls. Earlier this year, I cosponsored the Stopping Bad Robocalls Act, which will give the Federal Communications Commission the tools it needs to stop bad robocalls. I voted to pass the TRACED Act, another piece of legislation that will figh… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://collinpeterson.house.gov/media/press-releases/chairman-peterson-statement-delayed-csp-farm-bill-conservation-program-payments Chairman Peterson statement on delayed CSP farm bill conservation program payments 2019-12-09 2019 2019-12 Democrat House MN Collin Peterson P000258 collinpeterson.house.gov     legacy Congressman Collin Peterson, who serves as the Chairman of the House Agriculture Committee, released the following statement today in regard to the delay in payments being made on USDA Conservation Stewardship Program contracts: I'm not sure what the delay was, but this is one more source of stress that farmers don't need right now. I'm told that the funding was released by the Office of Management and Budget on Friday, and I hope that payments will be made by USDA as quickly as possible. I would encourage folks who haven't gotten their CSP payments or heard from their local NRCS office to make a call or stop by to check on their status. A delay like this means bills can't be paid in their local communities and alsothreatens to impact tax planning. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://emmer.house.gov/press-releases?ID=C5CF5393-6313-4BA9-BC03-FE513C0FB160 Members of the Minnesota Delegation Honor Fallen National Guardsmen 2019-12-09 2019 2019-12 Republican House MN Tom Emmer E000294 emmer.house.gov     legacy Facebook Icon Google Plus Icon Instagram Icon LinkedIn Icon Twitter Icon YouTube Icon Vimeo Icon Clients Icon Email icon Map Icon Print Icon Quote Icon icon_share Carousel Arrow - Left Carousel Arrow - Right 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z

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