Press releases
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864 rows where state = "OK" and year = 2017 sorted by date descending
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| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/christmas-gift | A Christmas Gift | 2017-12-25 | 2017 | 2017-12 | Republican | House | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | As promised, Congress and the Trump Administration delivered substantial tax reform to tens of millions of American taxpayers and hundreds of thousands of US corporations and businesses before Christmas.For years, many of my colleagues and I have called for tax reform - reform that would benefit American workers by letting them keep more of what they earn, bring American companies back to our shores, promote economic growth, and lower taxes on businesses. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, which has now become law, is the answer to delivering economic expansion, higher wages, more job opportunities and individual prosperity. Under the new tax system, the standard deduction that most Americans use is doubled. Single filers will see their standard deduction go from $6,500 to $12,000, married couples filing jointly will see theirs go from $12,000 to $24,000 and heads of household will go from $9,550 to 18,000. Furthermore, the additional child tax credit is increased to $2000 and becomes fully refundable up to $1400. And to the benefit of all individual filers, the top rate for each bracket is lowered. For Oklahomans, that means the average 4-person household in the Fourth District making $73,624 will see a tax cut of $2077. This legislation was also a major tax relief for job creators of all sizes from the small businesses on Main Street to large corporations that employ thousands and the results are already beginning to emerge. With a significantly lowered corporate tax rate of 21%, American companies will now be more competitive on the global stage. Since the final passage of the tax reform bills, numerous corporations like AT&T, Fifth Third Bank, Comcast, Bank of America, Boeing, Wells Fargo and more have pledged to give hundreds of thousands of their employees generous bonuses, and some have announced plans to invest billions of dollars into the American economy. For those of us who have been advocating this kind of tax reform, the results we are already seeing confirms what we have been claiming for years - lo… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/cole-congress/cole-congress-guest-chairman-pete-sessions | Cole on Congress with guest Chairman Pete Sessions | 2017-12-22 | 2017 | 2017-12 | Republican | House | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C.- Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) recently filmed another episode of his television and web show, Cole on Congress for December 2017. This months program featured an interview with Chairman Pete Sessions, who represents the 32ndDistrict of Texasand currently serves as the Chairman of the House Rules Committee. Elected in 1996, Sessions was a businessman before running for public office. He is the proud father of a child with Down syndrome and is a strong advocate for the disabled community. Sessions has served as Chairman of the Rules Committee since 2013, and Congressman Cole has served with him since then. On winning his first Congressional election, Sessions states his goal was to make the country a better place coupled with Republican ideals: Upon winning, I came to Washington looking to make our country better and stronger. [I] deeply believed that the biggest problem we have in this country is big government. The biggest threat to freedom is big government. And Ive believed that throughout my career along with other things and believe that the Republican Party and Conservative philosophy offers the best way to move forward. Sessions is the father of a child with Down syndrome and advocates for funding research for the Down syndrome community and many other medical initiatives. During his tenure in Congress, he has been able to serve in many capacities in supporting the medical research community: I have a Down syndrome son Alexander Gregory Sessions. Down syndrome young man, Eagle Scout cool guy. But it throws me in the midst of this disability. What really is a thrust is that Congress must be engaged in making sure that we have more research and developmentIm the retina guy in Congress. I understand about photoreceptor cells and how we need to bring sight to people. I understand the disability community with Down syndromemy service in Congress is about helping other people. As the Chairman of the Rules Committee, Sessions has the unique position to see every piece of legislation before i… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-lankford-again-pushes-gridlock-reform-on-senate-floor | Senator Lankford Again Pushes Gridlock Reform on Senate Floor | 2017-12-22 | 2017 | 2017-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 12.22.17 Senator Lankford Again Pushes Gridlock Reform on Senate Floor Lankford: We've got agencies all over this town that can't answer a question because the bureaucrats are waiting on a Senate confirmed nomination. CLICK HERE to view the video. WASHINGTON, DC Days after testifying before the Senate Committee on Rules and Administration about his gridlock reform proposal, Senator James Lankford (R-OK) delivered a speech on the floor of the Senate, Thursday, about the issue. Lankford has advocated a series of Senate rule changes to streamline the executive confirmation process, to address the numerous federal agency vacancies, and also allow the Senate to debate and vote on more legislation. The Senate has confirmed 300 of President Trumps nominations, compared to 418 of President Obamas nominations and 493 of President Bushs nominations on this date (December 22) of their presidencies. In April 2017, Lankford proposed to reinstate a rule from 2013, supported by former Democratic Leader Harry Reid, in order to reduce Senate post-cloture debate time. Specifically, the resolution seeks to reduce post-cloture debate time for most executive branch nominees from 30 hours to eight hours and district court nominees from 30 hours to two hours. The resolution would maintain the 30 hours of post-cloture debate time for Supreme Court, circuit court, and Cabinet-level nominees. Excerpts: I believe the Senate is moving gridlock from here on this Capitol Hill all across the city and across the nation. The reason for that is how we do nominations and the length of time on nominations. Its time for the Senate to fix the Senates rules. Here's how it works. As this body knows extremely well, we have over 1,000 nominees that come from the president. The first year of a new presidency, a vast amount of time is spent in getting those 1,000 people through the nomination process. Each one of those is selected by the w… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cole-statement-continuing-resolution-and-disaster-relief | Cole Statement on the Continuing Resolution and Disaster Relief | 2017-12-21 | 2017 | 2017-12 | Republican | House | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C.- Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after the passage of H.R. 4667, Emergency Disaster Aid Package and the Senate Amendment to H.R. 1370, Further Continuing Resolution. "I am pleased that the House has delivered on their promise to continue to help our neighbors in Puerto Rico, Texas and Florida after a tough year of devastating natural disasters, and that we have also avoided shutting down the government," said Cole."Although another continuing resolution is not the ideal funding measure, a government shutdown would have been much worse and more costlier. It is now up to the Senate to follow through on that same promise and help keep our government running efficiently until January 19th." "For the time being, it is my hope that Congress can find appropriate budget levels for the next fiscal year so that the appropriations process can return to regular order. It is imperative that our federal dollars are being spent efficiently so that our national security, federal agencies and government programs can continue to serve the American taxpayer well." ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/icymi-inhofe-holds-epw-subcommittee-hearing-about-freight-movement | ICYMI: Inhofe Holds EPW Subcommittee Hearing About Freight Movement | 2017-12-21 | 2017 | 2017-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | ICYMI: Inhofe Holds EPW Subcommittee Hearing About Freight Movement Thursday, December 21, 2017 U.S. Sen.Jim Inhofe(R-Okla.), Chairman of the Environment and Public Works Subcommittee on Transportation & Infrastructure, held a subcommittee hearing yesterday entitled Freight Movement: Assessing Where We are Now and Where We Need to Go. This hearing was especially timely as theOklahoma Freight Transportation plan received federal approval this week. Click here to view Inhofe's opening statement. Remarks as prepared for delivery: Thank you all for being here today. Id like to thank my friend, Ranking Member Cardin, and his staff for their help in getting this hearing together. In the new year, the president and Congress will be shifting our focus to infrastructure. Im looking forward to working with my colleagues on this committee as we work to put together legislation that will benefit the users of our transportation networks and the economy. Since President Trump has been in office, weve seen three percent growth in the economy, weve added over two million jobs, and consumer confidence has sky rocketed. However, the economy will only continue to grow if our infrastructure is maintained and expanded to meet our future needs. In 2015, over 18 billion tons of freight worth $19 trillion moved over our highways, railways, waterways, and through the air. These numbers are only expected to grow with an estimated 25 billion tons of freight movement by 2045 worth an estimated $37 trillion. Yet when freight is delayed on congested highways, diverted around structurally deficient bridges, or awaiting movement at our ports and on our waterways, an estimated $27 billion annually in increased costs are borne by businesses, raising prices on consumer goods. The more delays we see, the further behind we will become. According to the World Economic Forum, the U.S. ranks 12th in overall infrastructure quality and the American Society of Civil Engineers scored our infrastruct… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/icymi-inhofe-speaks-about-enhancing-veterans-care-they-deserve-it-and-theyre-going-to-get-it | ICYMI: Inhofe Speaks About Enhancing Veterans Care: "They Deserve It and They're Going to Get It" | 2017-12-21 | 2017 | 2017-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | ICYMI: Inhofe Speaks About Enhancing Veterans Care: "They Deserve It and They're Going to Get It" Thursday, December 21, 2017 U.S. Sen.Jim Inhofe(R-Okla.), spoke on the Senate floor today about the Enhancing Veterans Care Act and veterans care in Oklahoma. Click here to view remarks. Key Excerpts: two years ago today I picked up the USA Today and in the USA Today they singled out my state of Oklahoma and said that we are not treating our veterans right and we were in shock at that time. This isnt how we take care of veterans in Oklahoma. So, Senator Lankford and I and two of the House members got to work on this thing. Meanwhile, back to our VA problem in Oklahoma, weve put two great new directors in the VA clinics and have a level of veteran care Oklahoma is proud of. ... Only yesterday President Trump signed the Enhancing Veterans Care Act to ensure we continue to give our veterans the best care. They deserve it and theyre going to get it. And, at the same time, were going to restore and rebuild our military as our nations # 1 priority. Our troops deserve it and theyre going to get it. Remarks as prepared for delivery: Madam President, two years ago today I picked up the USA Today and in the USA Today they singled out my state of Oklahoma and said that we are not treating our veterans right and we were in shock at that time. This article detailed the appalling standards of care at Veterans Affairs facilities in Oklahomasomething multiple inspector general reports from the Obama administration failed to reveal: Our veterans werent getting the care they deserved. Our VA facilities werent being held to the highest standards. This isnt how we take care of veterans in Oklahoma. So, Senator Lankford and I and two of the House members got to work on this thing and talked to regional VA leadership, veterans and whistleblowers and identified three key problems we needed to fix: First, the VA couldnt fire bad employees. Many VA employees are dedicated public servan… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-lankford-cole-statement-after-meeting-with-cms-administrator | Inhofe, Lankford, Cole Statement After Meeting with CMS Administrator | 2017-12-21 | 2017 | 2017-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | Inhofe, Lankford, Cole Statement After Meeting with CMS Administrator Thursday, December 21, 2017 U.S. Senators Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) and James Lankford (R-Okla.) and Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) issued the following statement after meeting with Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Administrator Seema Verma yesterday: We appreciate the opportunity to meet with Administrator Verma and highlight the importance of the continuing the physician training program to support Medicaid patients. We were encouraged by Administrator Vermas commitment to prioritizing Oklahomas waiver request and are hopeful progress will be made quickly. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-statement-on-presidents-authorization-of-lethal-aid-to-ukraine- | Inhofe Statement on President's Authorization of Lethal Aid to Ukraine | 2017-12-21 | 2017 | 2017-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | Inhofe Statement on President's Authorization of Lethal Aid to Ukraine Thursday, December 21, 2017 U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, made the following statement after President Trump authorized the sale of lethal defensive weapons to Ukraine. Sen. Inhofe sent a letter to President Trump in November urging him to provide lethal aid to Ukraine. It is the right call to provide defensive lethal aid to Ukraine. Russia has continued to escalate their dangerous and illegal aggression in Ukraine, and President Trumps bold action will be a decisive show of strength and a message of support to our allies. This support is critical in supporting Ukraine as they defend themselves and their democratic values against further encroachment and annexation by Russian forces, Inhofe said. The Oklahoma National Guard's 45th Infantry Brigade Combat Team is proud to have just completed a year in Ukraine. During that time, we were able to provide support to the Ukrainian military in specific areas of training and professionalism. We hope that any changes to US Government policy enhances their security and democracy in the years to come," said Major General Michael Thompson, Adjutant General, Oklahoma National Guard. The FY2018 NDAA, which the president signed into law just last week, also authorized $350 million for lethal defensive aid to Ukraine. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-letter_-tax-reform-special-edition | Lankford Letter - Tax Reform Special Edition | 2017-12-21 | 2017 | 2017-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 12.21.17 Lankford Letter - Tax Reform Special Edition CLICK HERE for the December 21, 2017 Tax Reform Special Edition Lankford Letter. Print Email Tweet Previous Article | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-lankford-klobuchar-harris-collins-heinrich-and-graham-introduce-election-security-bill | Senators Lankford, Klobuchar, Harris, Collins, Heinrich and Graham Introduce Election Security Bill | 2017-12-21 | 2017 | 2017-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 12.21.17 Senators Lankford, Klobuchar, Harris, Collins, Heinrich and Graham Introduce Election Security Bill Bill Would Protect Against Foreign Interference of Future Elections FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE D.J. Jordan (Lankford): 202-228-1477 Kirsten Hartman (Klobuchar): 202-228-6317 Tyrone Gayle (Harris): 202-897-6212 Annie Clark (Collins): 202-224-2523 Whitney Potter (Heinrich):202-228-1578 Taylor Reidy (Graham): 202-224-5972 WASHINGTON, DC Senator James Lankford (R-OK), along with co-sponsor Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Kamala Harris (D-CA), Susan Collins (R-ME), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), and Lindsey Graham (R-SC), today introduced the Secure Elections Act, a bill to strengthen election cybersecurity in America and protect against foreign interference in future elections. During the 2016 election, intelligence reports have factually established that Russia hacked presidential campaign accounts, launched cyberattacks against at least 21 state election systems, and attacked a US voting systems software company. While there is no evidence that a single vote outcome was tampered with, this dangerous precedent should be a wake-up call as we head into the 2018 election cycle. To protect against these THREATS, the Secure Elections Act streamlines cybersecurity information-sharing between federal intelligence entities and state election agencies; provides security clearances to state election officials; and provides support for state election cybersecurity operations. This bipartisan solution to fix these existing problems aims to bolster our election systems against future threats while protecting states primacy in running elections. Safe and free elections run by individual states are at the core of our national identity, said Lankford, a member of the Intelligence Committee. We were born as a nation because patriots stood up against foreign tyranny.During the 2016 elections, Russia tried to interfere in our… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://lucas.house.gov/press-release/lucas-votes-final-passage-tax-reform-legislation | Lucas Votes for Final Passage of Tax Reform Legislation | 2017-12-20 | 2017 | 2017-12 | Republican | House | OK | Frank Lucas | L000491 | lucas.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-3) today voted to pass the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, legislation that amends the Internal Revenue Code to lower taxes rates and adjust various tax credits and deductions for businesses and individuals. The legislation will now be sent to President Trump for final approval. Upon passage of the bill, Congressman Lucas issued the following statement: Today Congress has approved a sweeping reform to our nations tax code something that has only happened twice since WWII. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act will allow American families to keep more of their hard-earned dollars to put toward priorities such as saving for their childrens education, purchasing a new home, or investing for the future. By lowering rates and making it easier for companies to bring home foreign earnings, this bill will level the playing field for American workers and businesses who are competing with folks from around the world. The legislation will also encourage capital reinvestment and new job hiring across several industries. Energy firms drilling for oil in Western Oklahoma or an ag producer purchasing a better tractor to more efficiently raise wheat are just a couple examples of how reforming our nations tax code can generate renewed economic growth her at home. Overhauling our tax code to broaden out the base, simplify the rules, and lower rates is an enormous undertaking, and I am proud to join my colleagues today to deliver much-needed relief to American taxpayers. Tax Cuts and Jobs Act Highlights Lowers individual taxes and sets rates at 0%, 10%, 12%, 22%, 24%, 32%, 35%, and 37% Roughly doubles standard deduction to $12,000 and $24,000 for individual and joint filers Doubles the Child Tax Credit to $2,000 Lowers corporate rate to 21% from 35% | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-talks-tax-overhaul-and-veterans-on-the-radio- | Inhofe Talks Tax Overhaul and Veterans on the Radio | 2017-12-20 | 2017 | 2017-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | Sen. Inhofe and Charlie Taraboletti of KWON Radio in Bartlesville talked tax reform and veterans. On how tax reform will help Oklahomans: There is an independent group called The Tax Foundation that makes an evaluationTheyre not Democrat, Republicantheyre all economists They have said the bottom line in the state of Oklahoma is the average family of four is going to increase their income by $2,000 per year. Listen to the full segment here. Sen. Inhofe and Leroy Billy of KPRV Radio in Poteau talked tax reform, the GDP increase and the importance of military funding. On the GDP increase under President Trump: For every 1 percent increase in economic activity, that translates into 3 trillion dollars of additional revenue. Now, thats something that has always happened and during the Obama Administration, we only increasedduring his eight yearsthe economy only increased 1.5 percent a year. Already, in the second and third quarter of the Trump Administration, its increased 3 percent. Listen to the full segment here. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-this-is-a-reagan-tax-cut | Inhofe: "This is a Reagan Tax Cut" | 2017-12-20 | 2017 | 2017-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | Inhofe: "This is a Reagan Tax Cut" Wednesday, December 20, 2017 U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) praised the Senates passage of tax reform overhaul. The legislation will be sent back to the House of Representatives before it goes to the President and becomes law. This is a Reagan tax cut a truly pro-growth reform that will grow our economy and create jobs. The tax cut package passed by the Senate tonight will support working families in Oklahoma with an average tax cut of approximately $2,000 by doubling the standard deduction and the child tax credit. These are tangible benefits and I am eager to see this tax cut enacted before Christmas so families can keep more of their hard earned money. Watch Senator Inhofes floor remarks on tax reform here. Read Sen. Inhofe's statement about the conference report, which includes key provisions he secured, here. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/president-trump-signs-the-enhancing-veterans-care-act | President Trump Signs the Enhancing Veterans Care Act | 2017-12-20 | 2017 | 2017-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | President Trump Signs the Enhancing Veterans Care Act Wednesday, December 20, 2017 U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) and U.S. Sen. James Lankford praised the president for signing S.1266, the Enhancing Veterans Care Act today. Sen. Inhofe, Sen. Lankford and Rep. Mullin, authored this legislation to provide greater accountability and allow independent oversight at Veterans Affairs facilities. Two years ago this week, a front page story in USA Today outlined problems in Oklahomas VA facilities. I immediately got to work, fighting to ensure that our VA facilities are held to the highest standards of care. I identified three key reforms I wanted to address: provide authority for VA directors to fire poorly performing employees, extend the Veterans Choice program and allow independent, third-party oversight at VA facilities, said Inhofe. Today, with the presidents signature, we have now enacted each of those reforms into law. As a strong, outspoken advocate for our nations veterans, I appreciate President Trumps leadership as we work together to provide our veterans with the highest level of carethey deserve no less. Our reforms have already improved patient care for our veterans, but were not done yet. In the coming weeks, I will work with our VA directors in Oklahoma City and Muskogee to identify our next set of priorities to ensure that Oklahoma leads the nation in veterans care. Unfortunately, the VA hasnt always met the standard of healthcare that our veterans deserve. The Enhancing Veteran Care Act will help ensure our veterans receive quality care by giving senior officials at the VA regional level the tools to hold people accountable. Im glad the President has signed this bill into law to bring the VA in line with the expectations of our veterans and fellow Oklahomans, Lankford said. Background: On Nov. 30, 2015, VISN 19 sent two teams to investigate operations at the Muskogee VA center, one that looked at quality of care and the other that looked at management of … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/president-signs-enhancing-veterans-care-act-into-law | President Signs Enhancing Veterans Care Act Into Law | 2017-12-20 | 2017 | 2017-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 12.20.17 President Signs Enhancing Veterans Care Act Into Law WASHINGTON, DC Senators James Lankford (R-OK) and Jim Inhofe (R-OK) praised the president for signing into law the Enhancing Veterans Care Act (S.1266) today. Sen. Inhofe, Sen. Lankford and Rep. Markwayne Mullin (OK-02), authored this legislation to provide greater accountability and allow independent oversight at Veterans Affairs facilities. Unfortunately, the VA hasnt always met the standard of healthcare and patient care that our veterans deserve, said Lankford. Most of the administration and staff at our VAs hospitals work incredibly hard to take care of people, but the VA system does not give local leaders the authority to quickly respond when someone does not meet the VA standard. The Enhancing Veteran Care Act is designed to give local senior officials at the VA regional level the tools to hold people accountable if they do not provide the quality care our veterans deserve. Im glad the President has signed this bill into law to bring the VA in line with the expectations of our veterans and fellow Oklahomans. Two years ago this week, a front page story in USA Today outlined problems in Oklahomas VA facilities, said Inhofe. I immediately got to work, fighting to ensure that our VA facilities are held to the highest standards of care. I identified three key reforms I wanted to address: provide authority for VA directors to fire poorly performing employees, extend the Veterans Choice program, and allow independent, third-party oversight at VA facilities. Today, with the presidents signature, we have now enacted each of those reforms into law. Inhofe continued, As a strong, outspoken advocate for our nations veterans, I appreciate President Trumps leadership as we work together to provide our veterans with the highest level of carethey deserve no less. Our reforms have already improved patient care for our veterans, but were not done yet. In the coming weeks, I will work with our VA directors in Oklahoma City and Muskogee to identify … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-lankford-tax-reform-is-one-step-closer-to-becoming-law | Senator Lankford: Tax Reform Is One Step Closer To Becoming Law | 2017-12-20 | 2017 | 2017-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 12.20.17 Senator Lankford: Tax Reform Is One Step Closer To Becoming Law WASHINGTON, DC Senator James Lankford (R-OK) tonight made the following statement after voting in favor of the House and Senate conference agreement of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act: After thirty years, we finally have a tax reform bill thats one stop away from being signed into law by the President. Over the past decade, economic growth has stalled and for the first time since World War II, America has grown around 2 percent or less. For the past year, we have worked to simplify the tax code and bring down the rates for everyone. This bill accomplishes both of those goals. This tax reform bill will put more money in peoples pockets, to spend or to save, which will help our economic health, and increase jobs, productivity, and wages for all Oklahomans. For families with very modest incomes, this bill doubles their standard deduction, doubles the child tax credit, and significantly reduces their taxes. For small, medium and large businesses, this bill will allow them to keep more of what they make to invest in new equipment, new employees, and business expansion. While no bill is perfect, this bill is a vast improvement on the current tax code. CLICK HEREfor a summary of the latest tax bill.CLICK HEREto view Lankfords recent interview about tax reform on CBS Face The Nation.CLICK HEREto view a December 8 floor speech from Lankford on tax reform.CLICK HEREto read a December 6 op-ed written by Lankford in support of tax reform. ### Print Email Tweet Previous Article | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-lankford-tax-reform-one-step-closer-to-becoming-law | Senator Lankford: Tax Reform One Step Closer To Becoming Law | 2017-12-20 | 2017 | 2017-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 12.20.17 Senator Lankford: Tax Reform One Step Closer To Becoming Law WASHINGTON, DC Senator James Lankford (R-OK) tonight made the following statement after voting in favor of the House and Senate conference agreement of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act: After thirty years, we finally have a tax reform bill thats one stop away from being signed into law by the President. Over the past decade, economic growth has stalled and for the first time since World War II, America has grown around 2 percent or less. For the past year, we have worked to simplify the tax code and bring down the rates for everyone. This bill accomplishes both of those goals. This tax reform bill will put more money in peoples pockets, to spend or to save, which will help our economic health, and increase jobs, productivity, and wages for all Oklahomans. For families with very modest incomes, this bill doubles their standard deduction, doubles the child tax credit, and significantly reduces their taxes. For small, medium and large businesses, this bill will allow them to keep more of what they make to invest in new equipment, new employees, and business expansion. While no bill is perfect, this bill is a vast improvement on the current tax code. CLICK HEREfor a summary of the latest tax bill.CLICK HEREto view Lankfords recent interview about tax reform on CBS Face The Nation.CLICK HEREto view a December 8 floor speech from Lankford on tax reform.CLICK HEREto read a December 6 op-ed written by Lankford in support of tax reform. ### Print Email Tweet Previous Article | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://mullin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=834 | Mullin Supports Tax Cuts and Jobs for Oklahomas Families and Small Businesses | 2017-12-19 | 2017 | 2017-12 | Republican | House | OK | Markwayne Mullin | M001190 | mullin.house.gov | legacy | Congressman Markwayne Mullin (OK-2) voted today in support of H.R. 1, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, to deliver significant tax relief to Oklahomas families and small businesses. For thirty-one years, Oklahomas families have struggled to get ahead under our increasingly burdensome tax code, said Mullin. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act provides real relief to the hardworking Oklahomans who need it most. Starting next year, Oklahomans will see their paycheck stretch further, simply because they are going to keep more of it in the first place. For example, the average family of four in Oklahomas Second District is going to receive a $1,643 tax cut under our bill and regain the power to spend their dollars in a way that works best for their family. Additionally, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act delivers the jumpstart our businesses need to invest, grow, and succeed, said Mullin. This pro-growth tax reform allows small businesses to create the new jobs and investments necessary to compete in the global market. Im proud to be a part of this historic tax reform that will keep more money in our local communities and stimulate our national economy. I look forward to the Senate moving quickly so that we can deliver on our promise to the American people and send the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act to the presidents desk before the years end. H.R. 1 passed the House by a vote of 227 - 203. The bill now moves to the Senate for consideration. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cole-statement-passage-conference-report-hr-1 | Cole Statement on the Passage of the Conference Report for the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act | 2017-12-19 | 2017 | 2017-12 | Republican | House | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after the passage of the Conference Report forH.R. 1, The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. The Conference Report passed in the House by a vote of 227-203 with Coles support. The passage of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act is a historic vote to overhaul our nations tax code," said Cole."This is the first major reform in 31 years. I applaud Speaker Ryan, House Leadership, Chairman Brady and the Conference members for bringing forward a comprehensive and working tax bill, and achieving this major legislative accomplishment. Under this reform, the standard deduction most Americans use is doubled to $12,000 and $24,000 for individuals and married couples, respectively. The additional child tax credit is increased to $2000, and becomes fully refundable up to $1400 and phases out for families making over $400,000. Further, to benefit all individual filers, the top rate for each bracket is lowered. Most American will receive a tax cut. This bill also represents a major tax reduction for businesses. We have lowered the corporate tax rate significantly from 35% to 21%, bringing businesses back to the United States and making our economy more competitive on the global stage. Every economic study shows that the reduction in the corporate rate will deliver economic growth and job opportunities. After substantial debate over the legislation, my colleagues on the Conference Committee were able to affect significant improvements and changes in the original House bill. To point out a few, the medical expense deduction was retained and the mortgage interest deduction will be allowed on home purchases below $750,000. Furthermore, I am pleased that the Conference Committee removed harmful language that would have forced thousands of graduate students to face significant yet unintended tax bills on tuition waivers. No tax reform bill is perfect and there are features in the current legislation which I will work to improve. However, on balance, this legislation is go… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://russell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-russell-statement-house-passage-tax-cuts-and-jobs-act | Rep. Russell Statement on House Passage of Tax Cuts and Jobs Act | 2017-12-19 | 2017 | 2017-12 | Republican | House | OK | Steve Russell | R000604 | russell.house.gov | legacy | Washington, DC Rep. Steve Russell (OK-5) today voted for theTax Cuts and Jobs Act (H.R. 1), which passed the House by a margin of 227 to 203. Despite the many MYTHS, H.R. 1 overhauls Americas tax code for the first time in a generation to deliver historic tax relief for workers, families, and job creators, and revitalize our nations economy. By lowering taxes across the board, eliminating costly special-interest tax breaks, and modernizing our international tax system, this legislation will help create more jobs, increase paychecks, and make the tax code more simple and fair for all Americans. Rep. Russell commented on the passage of theTax Cuts and Jobs Act, stating: This legislation lives up to its name- cutting taxes for individuals, families, and businesses while delivering more jobs and higher wages for the American people. It simplifies our broken tax code, preserving the adoption tax credit for middle-income families and encouraging American businesses to bring offshore investments back home. It also eliminates the Affordable Care Acts individual mandate penalty tax, providing families with much-needed relief and flexibility to buy the health care thats right for them if they choose to do so. TheTax Cuts and Jobs Actis exactly what our country needs to get back on track. By doing nothing, we will continue to see our economy worsen and trillions added to the deficit. By taking our country in an entirely different direction through these tax cuts and reforms, we have a chance to let Americans enjoy more of the fruit of their own labor. Rep. Russell looks forward to Senate Republicans passing the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act this week so that the unified Republican government can deliver more jobs, fairer taxes, and bigger paychecks for hardworking Americans by the end of the year. To follow the progress oftax reform as it crosses the finish line, sign up to receive text message updates from the House Republican Conference by texting TAX REFORM to 50589. Message and data rates may apply. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://russell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=578 | Rep. Russell Statement on House Passage of Tax Cuts and Jobs Act | 2017-12-19 | 2017 | 2017-12 | Republican | House | OK | Steve Russell | R000604 | russell.house.gov | legacy | Rep. Russell Statement on House Passage of Tax Cuts and Jobs Act f t # e Washington, December 19, 2017 Rep. Steve Russell (OK-5) today voted for the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (H.R. 1), which passed the House by a margin of 227 to 203. Despite the many MYTHS, H.R. 1 overhauls America's tax code for the first time in a generation to deliver historic tax relief for workers, families, and job creators, and revitalize our nation's economy. By lowering taxes across the board, eliminating costly special-interest tax breaks, and modernizing our international tax system, this legislation will help create more jobs, increase paychecks, and make the tax code more simple and fair for all Americans.Rep. Russell commented on the passage of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, stating: This legislation lives up to its name- cutting taxes for individuals, families, and businesses while delivering more jobs and higher wages for the American people. It simplifies our broken tax code, preserving the adoption tax credit for middle-income families and encouraging American businesses to bring offshore investments back home. It also eliminates the Affordable Care Act's individual mandate penalty tax, providing families with much-needed relief and flexibility to buy the health care that's right for them if they choose to do so. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act is exactly what our country needs to get back on track. By doing nothing, we will continue to see our economy worsen and trillions added to the deficit. By taking our country in an entirely different direction through these tax cuts and reforms, we have a chance to let Americans enjoy more of the fruit of their own labor. Rep. Russell looks forward to Senate Republicans passing the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act this week so that the unified Republican government can deliver more jobs, fairer taxes, and bigger … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-lankford-testifies-on-gridlock-reform-before-senate-rules-committee | Senator Lankford Testifies on Gridlock Reform Before Senate Rules Committee | 2017-12-19 | 2017 | 2017-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 12.19.17 Senator Lankford Testifies on Gridlock Reform Before Senate Rules Committee Lankford: The rules of the Senate are not something that we can just complain about and do nothing about. CLICK HERE to view the video. WASHINGTON, DC Senator James Lankford (R-OK) today testified before the Senate Committee on Rules and Administration on Senate Resolution 355, which is a resolution introduced by Lankford to address Senate gridlock. Lankford has advocated keeping the legislative filibuster but changing the rules that produce or result in a delay in the Senate calendar for presidential nominations. In April 2017, Lankford proposed to reinstate a rule from 2013 in order to reduce Senate post-cloture debate time. This will allow the Senate more time to consider legislation. In 2017, the Senate has confirmed 261 of President Trumps nominations, compared to 418 of President Obamas nominations in his first year and 483 of President Bushs nominations in his first year. Specifically, the resolution seeks to reduce post-cloture debate time for most executive branch nominees from 30 hours to eight hours and district court nominees from 30 hours to two hours. The resolution will maintain the 30 hours of post-cloture debate time for Supreme Court, circuit court, and Cabinet-level nominees. Transcript from Opening Statement: Chairman Shelby, Ranking Member Klobuchar, friends, and colleagues, I anticipate this to be a dialogue. I dont think a single one of us thinks that things are going swimmingly. Were not engaging on the issues. We do consume a tremendous amount of time not in 30-hours of debate but 30-hours of silence on the Senate floor. With occasionally someone standing up to speak on something unrelated to the 30-hours of debate on the floor for that nominee. This is not so much a debate about if only we had 30-hours of debate we would get so many facts out on so many individuals because were really not debatin… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-lankford-and-klobuchar-urge-department-of-homeland-security-to-prioritize-election-cybersecurity | Senators Lankford and Klobuchar Urge Department of Homeland Security to Prioritize Election Cybersecurity | 2017-12-19 | 2017 | 2017-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 12.19.17 Senators Lankford and Klobuchar Urge Department of Homeland Security to Prioritize Election Cybersecurity WASHINGTON, DC Senators James Lankford (R-OK) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) have written the new Homeland Security Secretary Kristjen Nielsen to urge the Department to prioritize election cybersecurity. Intelligence reports make it clear that Russia hacked presidential campaign accounts, launched cyberattacks against at least 21 state election systems, attacked a US voting systems software company, and illegally obtained emails from more than 100 local election officials. In todays letter, Klobuchar and Lankford call on DHS Secretary Nielsen to do more to fully protect our systems, including improving information-sharing between states and the federal government and providing states with resources, best practices, and manpower to help combat attacks and update voting technology. The senators, along with Senator Kamala Harris (D-CA) and Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC) as original cosponsors, have also developed bipartisan legislation, to be introduced Thursday, to require DHS cooperation and leadership on establishing information-sharing processes and improving election cybersecurity. As Ranking Member of the Senate Rules Committee with oversight jurisdiction over federal elections, Klobuchar also leda group of 26 senators in calling for a full account of the Election Assistance Commissions (EAC) efforts to address Russian cybersecurity threats.Senator Lankford serves on the Senate Intelligence Committee, which is investigating foreign interference during the 2016 presidential campaign and election. A PDF of the letter is available here, and the full text isbelow: Dear Secretary Nielsen, We write to express concern about the security of U.S. election systems and to urge you to prioritize election cybersecurity as you begin your tenure as Secretary. Election security is national security, and our election systems have become a target for foreign adversaries. Intelligence report… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/agenda-rest-year | The Agenda for the Rest of the Year | 2017-12-18 | 2017 | 2017-12 | Republican | House | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | This week, Congress will start to wrap up its first legislative year and work to accomplish some of its major objectives. This year has been a productive one, but we are racing to the finish line to accomplish two of our most important priorities funding the government and tax reform. Each fiscal year, it is imperative that Congress funds our government agencies to meet the needs of the American taxpayer and that they remain open for business. Congress, with the power of the purse, is responsible for appropriating money for federal agencies so that they can serve the American people. And with each fiscal year, the demands and functions of federal agencies change. Unfortunately, the Senate has failed to pass full funding legislation on time for another year in fact, the last time all twelve appropriations measures were passed by both chambers and signed into law by the fiscal year deadline of September 30th was in 1996. This year, the House accomplished passing all twelve appropriations measures through the Appropriations Committee in a timely manner. Unfortunately, a comprehensive spending package was not brought up for a vote, and Congress resorted to kicking the proverbial can down the road by passing another continuing resolution. By passing a continuing resolution, we are functioning and relying on funding levels set by the previous fiscal year. And each time we reached a funding deadline, it has been a race to reach an agreement on what kind of spending deal should be done. Once again, Congress finds itself scrambling to pass a funding measure that will keep the government open, supply our military and defense forces and continue helping our neighbors in Texas, Florida and Puerto Rico who have been devastated by hurricane disasters. Another item on the 2017 agenda for Congress has been the passage of tax reform. Earlier this year, Congress passed the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (H.R. 1), which was the comprehensive tax legislation to reform our nations tax code, making individual filing easier and corporate … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-praises-presidents-national-security-strategy | Inhofe Praises President's National Security Strategy | 2017-12-18 | 2017 | 2017-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | Inhofe Praises President's National Security Strategy Monday, December 18, 2017 U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, praised the presidents speech today on the National Security Strategy for the United States: President Trumps bold national security strategy leaves little question that he is charting a new course for American foreign policy, leaving behind the failed policies of President Obama. His strategy puts American leadership at the forefront of our security and economic growth and I look forward to working with him on these initiatives. With the presidents clear commitment to protecting the homeland, promoting American prosperity, defending human rights and advancing peace through strength, the United States will once again be the unquestioned leader of the free world. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-secures-amendments-protecting-oklahoma-businesses-in-tax-bill-conference-report- | Inhofe Secures Amendments Protecting Oklahoma Businesses in Tax Bill Conference Report | 2017-12-15 | 2017 | 2017-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | Inhofe Secures Amendments Protecting Oklahoma Businesses in Tax Bill Conference Report Friday, December 15, 2017 U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) praised the release of the conference agreement on H.R. 1, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act today, which included key Inhofe amendments that would ensure the tax cut bill treats all Oklahoma companies fairly, protecting jobs and economic growth in Oklahoma: I am pleased the conference committee demonstrated Congress commitment to making the tax code fair and simple by including my amendment to ensure family-owned businesses of all types are treated the same under the tax code. Many of our manufacturers, retailers, farmers, and community bankers have structured their businesses to maximize their ability to grow and create jobs, but the original Senate bill penalized some because of their specific ownership structure. My amendment addressed that, so now family-owned businesses will not be at a competitive disadvantage. The conference report also included other provisions I fought for to support businesses who make capital investments by expanding interest deductibility and protecting the tax-exempt status for valuable community-serving organizations. Background on the Amendments Inhofe 1736 - Including trust businesses for pass through deduction. The Senate-passed version of H.R. 1 provided a 23 percent deduction for businesses structured as pass through entities, but it excluded those entities that are organized as trusts. This would have a negative impact on family owned businesses in Oklahoma. Inhofe authored Amendment #1736 to address this issue. The conference report to H.R. 1 incorporated this amendment into the final package; all businesses organized as pass through entities will be treated the same. Inhofe 1602 Increasing the amount of interest that can be deducted by businesses. Both the House and Senate passed versions of H.R. 1 limited the amount of interest that can be deducted by businesses. The House limited the amount to … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-praises-senate-confirmation-of-epa-nominees | Inhofe Praises Senate Confirmation of EPA Nominees | 2017-12-14 | 2017 | 2017-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | Inhofe Praises Senate Confirmation of EPA Nominees Thursday, December 14, 2017 U.S. Sen.Jim Inhofe(R-Okla.), senior member of the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works, praised the Senates confirmation of Matthew Leopold and David Ross to serve in key positions at the EPA. Matthew Leopold was confirmed by voice vote to serve as EPA General Counsel and David Ross was confirmed by voice vote to lead the EPAs Office of Water. I am pleased that the Senate continues to confirm highly qualified, experienced nominees for the Environmental Protection Agency, like Matthew Leopold and David Ross. I am confident that they will work closely with Administrator Pruitt to promote and protect the environment. Congratulations to Matthew and David on their confirmation and I look forward to working with them in their new role. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-talks-ndaa-and-tax-reform-updates-on-the-radio- | Inhofe Talks NDAA and Tax Reform Updates on the Radio | 2017-12-14 | 2017 | 2017-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | Sen. Inhofe and Cameron Dole of KWHW Radio in Altus talked the Altus fire station, military readiness and tax reform. On the threat of North Korea: “The military themselves—and normally they don’t do this—they admit … that we today have a hollow force like we had in the late 1970s. So, that’s the biggest problem, but it’s a problem nobody is aware of.” Listen to the full segment here. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-lankford-introduces-judge-charles-goodwin-at-nomination-hearing | Senator Lankford Introduces Judge Charles Goodwin at Nomination Hearing | 2017-12-13 | 2017 | 2017-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 12.13.17 Senator Lankford Introduces Judge Charles Goodwin at Nomination Hearing Lankford: “Senator Inhofe and I both believe he is qualified to serve as the US District Court Judge for the Western District of Oklahoma.” CLICK HERE to view the video. WASHINGTON, DC – Senator James Lankford (R-OK) today introduced Oklahoma Judge Charles Goodwin at his nomination hearing before the Senate Committee on the Judiciary. Goodwin is nominated to serve on the US District Court for the Western District of Oklahoma. Goodwin currently serves as a United States Magistrate Judge in the Western District of Oklahoma. Goodwin presided over approximately 500 initial proceedings in felony cases, issued approximately 350 opinions in civil cases, and disposed over 1000 misdemeanor cases. Previous to serving as Magistrate Judge, Goodwin was a partner and civil litigator at Crowe & Dunlevy, P.C., and served as a law clerk to Judge Lee R. West of the United States District Court for the Western District of Oklahoma and then-Magistrate Judge Claire V. Eagan in the Northern District of Oklahoma. Goodwin received his BA from the University of Oklahoma and JD from the University of Oklahoma College of Law, where he served on the Oklahoma Law Review. Transcript: Mr. Chairman, it is absolutely an honor to be able to be here. To be able to introduce Charles Goodwin. President Trump nominated Charles Goodwin to serve as a federal district court judge in the Western District of Oklahoma on July the 13th. He is a lifelong Oklahoman, graduate of the University of Oklahoma—which will win the national championship in a few weeks—and he is also a graduate of the University of Oklahoma College of Law. He has served as a Magistrate Judge in the Western District of Oklahoma for four years, demonstrating a strong reputation for being fair and ethical. He also serves as the chair of the Western District local civil rules committee. He has recei… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://mullin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=828 | Mullin Statement on FY18 NDAA Signed into Law | 2017-12-12 | 2017 | 2017-12 | Republican | House | OK | Markwayne Mullin | M001190 | mullin.house.gov | legacy | Congressman Markwayne Mullin (OK-2) released the following statement after President Trump signed the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2018 (FY18 NDAA) into law: “The FY18 NDAA rebuilds and restores our military by supplying our men and women in uniform with the critical resources needed to protect our country from harm,” said Mullin. “Our troops work tirelessly to defend our flag. By giving them a well-deserved pay raise, we recognize their constant commitment and lend our gratitude for their brave sacrifice. A Second District priority, I’m also glad to see the DOD Workforce Flexibility Act extended through 2021 in this year’s NDAA. I applaud President Trump for his strong support of our nation’s military and this year’s NDAA.” The FY18 NDAA’s 2.4% pay raise for our men and women in uniform is the biggest pay raise for our troops in eight years. Additionally, the legislation increases the overall topline funding, adds additional troops to our Armed Forces, and invests in new technology to help the United States confront conflicts around the globe. The bill also includes language that extends Congressman Mullin’s DOD Workforce Flexibility Act through Fiscal Year 2021. The DOD Workforce Flexibility Act gives flexibility in the hiring process for installations with a civilian workforce, like the McAlester Army Ammunition Plant. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://russell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/house-lawmakers-introduce-certify-heroes-act | House Lawmakers Introduce the CERTIFY Heroes Act | 2017-12-12 | 2017 | 2017-12 | Republican | House | OK | Steve Russell | R000604 | russell.house.gov | legacy | Washington, DC – Representative Steve Russell (OK-5) —joined by Representatives Steve Womack (AR-3), John Carter (TX-31), Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-5), and Sanford Bishop (GA-2)— today introduced the Credentialing, Educating, and Relevant Training Initiative For Your (CERTIFY) Heroes Act. This legislation will permit individuals who are eligible for the Department of Defense tuition assistance program to use their tuition assistance for licensing, credentialing, and certification programs offered by entities other than an institution of higher education. Upon introduction, the sponsors released the following statement: “The members of our armed forces deserve nothing short of the best, and we should provide them with the resources necessary for success once they return to civilian life. The CERTIFY Heroes Act, authored by Rep. Steve Womack, will allow active duty men and women who are unable to attend a four-year college to pursue more than 1,500 different licenses, certifications, and credentials using tuition assistance. This bill makes clear the House’s priority to not only equip our service members for their future, but also to give our nation’s workforce the best we have to offer.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://russell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=577 | House Lawmakers Introduce the CERTIFY Heroes Act | 2017-12-12 | 2017 | 2017-12 | Republican | House | OK | Steve Russell | R000604 | russell.house.gov | legacy | Representative Steve Russell (OK-5) joined by Representatives Steve Womack (AR-3), John Carter (TX-31), Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-5), and Sanford Bishop (GA-2) today introduced the Credentialing, Educating, and Relevant Training Initiative For Your (CERTIFY) Heroes Act.This legislation will permit individuals who are eligible for the Department of Defense tuition assistance program to use their tuition assistance for licensing, credentialing, and certification programs offered by entities other than an institution of higher education. Upon introduction, the sponsors released the following statement: The members of our armed forces deserve nothing short of the best, and we should provide them with the resources necessary for success once they return to civilian life. The CERTIFY Heroes Act, authored by Rep. Steve Womack, will allow active duty men and women who are unable to attend a four-year college to pursue more than 1,500 different licenses, certifications, and credentials using tuition assistance. This bill makes clear the House's priority to not only equip our service members for their future, but also to give our nation's workforce the best we have to offer. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-highlights-ferc-legislation-at-senate-energy-committee | Inhofe Highlights FERC Legislation at Senate Energy Committee | 2017-12-12 | 2017 | 2017-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | Inhofe Highlights FERC Legislation at Senate Energy Committee Tuesday, December 12, 2017 U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) submitted comments for the record during today’s Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources hearing regarding the permitting process for energy and resource infrastructure projects. Sen. Inhofe’s comments highlighted the importance of S.1844, legislation he authored with Sen. Angus King (I-ME) on streamlining pipeline approval processes. Key excerpts: “Our infrastructure is failing us and we are falling behind our international competitors who can build out new infrastructure quicker, efficiently moving goods to market. We need to tackle new projects and we need to do more to maintain and upgrade existing infrastructure. Unfortunately, delays in the permitting process happen too often and add significant costs - to the detriment of taxpayers and consumers. One study by Common Good found that a six-year delay more than doubles the effective cost of a project. We must consider ways to make infrastructure funding go further and streamlining the permitting process is a natural fit in a broader infrastructure package. I am confident Congress will take action soon – action that is vital for the economic health of our nation. … “In that same vein, earlier this year I introduced the Coordinating Interagency Review of Natural Gas Infrastructure Act of 2017 (S. 1844) with Senator King. S. 1844 will improve the process to permit certain natural gas pipelines and liquefied natural gas facilitates. While FERC generally does a good job carrying out its infrastructure permitting responsibilities, Senator King and I introduced this legislation narrowly to target known inter-agency slowdowns in the permitting process for Natural Gas Act Section 3 and Section 7 applications. S. 1844 is supported by API, INGAA, NGSA, and the Center for LNG and I encourage the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources to consider and act on this important legislation.” … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/first-step-toward-peace | A First Step Toward Peace | 2017-12-11 | 2017 | 2017-12 | Republican | House | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | Regarded as a sacred city to the Jewish, Christian and Muslim faiths, the ancient city of Jerusalem as been at the center of dispute between Palestine and Israel for decades. And for many years, U.S. Presidents have attempted to engage and negotiate peace talks between Israel and Palestine in hopes that it would help set firm boundaries and a final two-state solution. Every president in recent history has campaigned on a pledge to officially recognize Jerusalem as the true capital of Israel. Yet none of them has followed through and actually done so. But last week President Trump delivered on his promise and recognized Jerusalem as the capital of Israel. The city of Jerusalem is home to many religious sites of the three monotheistic religions – Judaism, Christianity and Islam - and millions of people hold these sites sacred. Since 1948, both Palestine and Israel have claimed Jerusalem to be the capital of their respective states. These conflicting claims have incited many acts of violence throughout the years. In 1995, Congress passed bipartisan legislation to formally recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel, and the seat of its government. Although this sent an important message at the time, no previous administration has actually recognized Jerusalem as Israel’s capital. Israel is the most powerful, democratic ally of the United States in the Middle East. It has served as the catalyst of democracy in the region. As a democratic and sovereign nation, it has and should have every right to name its capital. The majority of Israel’s government institutions – from the Knesset to the Supreme Court and the office of the Prime Minister – are located in Jerusalem. It should be fundamentally understood that Israel should be able to claim Jerusalem as its rightful capital. President Trump’s was careful to point out that the geo-political boundaries of Jerusalem should be negotiated and agreed upon by Israel and Palestine. In addition to formal recognition of Jerusalem as the capital of Israel, the Adm… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-urge-nationwide-review-of-va-providers-in-light-of-usa-today-report | Senators Urge Nationwide Review of VA Providers in Light of USA Today Report | 2017-12-11 | 2017 | 2017-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | Senators Urge Nationwide Review of VA Providers in Light of USA Today Report Monday, December 11, 2017 U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) joined a bipartisan group of U.S. senators calling on the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to conduct a nationwide review of its providers after a USA Today investigation found multiple providers hired by the Department had at least one state medical license revoked due to malpractice. In a letter to VA Secretary David Shulkin led by Sen. John Boozman (R-AR), the senators presented a series of questions. “For years, states have experienced provider shortages across many different medical specialties, and like the private sector healthcare industry, the VA has faced similar provider shortages,” the senators wrote to Shulkin. “As such, we request information about the VA’s oversight of provider hiring guidelines to ensure that the pressure to fill shortages has not led to insufficient health care quality controls.” In addition to Boozman and Inhofe, the letter was signed by Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), John Barrasso (R-WY), Bill Cassidy, MD (R-LA), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Mike Enzi (R-WY), Orrin Hatch (R-UT), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Jerry Moran (R-KS), Bill Nelson (D-FL), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) and Ron Wyden (D-OR). Full text of the letter can be found here and below: December 8, 2017 The Honorable David Shulkin Secretary U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs 810 Vermont Ave NW Washington, DC 20420-0001 Dear Secretary Shulkin: We write to express our serious concerns regarding recent media reports suggesting that the Department of Veterans Affairs offers employment to medical practitioners with a known history of licensure revocation by a state medical licensing board. The national reporting also highlighted cases of the VA hiring providers with known conduct and performance deficiencies that resulted in sanctions and criminal charges of the individuals. For years, states have experienced provider shortages across many … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://mullin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=827 | Mullin Supports Fair International Business Practices | 2017-12-09 | 2017 | 2017-12 | Republican | House | OK | Markwayne Mullin | M001190 | mullin.house.gov | legacy | Congressman Mullin (OK-2) today reaffirmed his support for H.R. 4563, the Georgian Fair Business Practice Sanctions Act, which enforces sanctions on the Georgian Government in the event they partake in unfair, unethical business practices with companies based in the United States. “Fair, honest agreements are crucial to maintain a good working relationship with any foreign government,” said Mullin. “Countries partaking in corrupt international business practices should not be tolerated by the United States. As a cosponsor of the Georgian Fair Business Practices Sanctions Act, I want to reiterate my support for the people of Georgia in their fight against the corruption that exists within their own government.” Mullin is a cosponsor of H.R. 4563, a bill to impose sanctions with respect to the Government of Georgia if the President determines that the Government of Georgia is taking actions to undermine commitments or contractual agreements with United States persons engaging in business operations in the country of Georgia. Congressman Steve Russell (OK-5) introduced H.R. 4563 on December 6, 2017. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-letter_-december-8 | Lankford Letter - December 8 | 2017-12-08 | 2017 | 2017-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 12.08.17 Lankford Letter - December 8 CLICK HERE for the December 8, 2017 Lankford Letter. Print Email Tweet Previous Article | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/cole-congress/cole-congress-guest-chairman-diane-black | Cole on Congress with guest Chairman Diane Black | 2017-12-07 | 2017 | 2017-12 | Republican | House | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. - Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) recently filmed an episode of his television and web show, Cole on Congress for December 2017. This month’s program featured an interview with Chairman Diane Black, who represents the Sixth District of Tennessee and currently serves as the Chairman of the House Budget Committee. Elected in 2010, Black brings an extensive background of public service in the state legislature of Tennessee, as a registered nurse, a small businesswoman and an educator. She has served on the Budget Committee with Congressman Cole since 2011 and was named the Chairman of the committee in 2017. Before running for public office and serving in the Tennessee State Legislature, Black worked in hospitals as a registered nurse. On what inspired her and pushed her to run for office, Black says: “I never thought about myself running…I was working in a hospital and saw what kind of care, or the lack of care that people were getting. The cost was breaking the state of Tennessee. [I] decided that maybe I could have a voice in this.” During her time in the Tennessee State Legislature, Black helped shape healthcare policy for the state, which eventually inspired her run for Congress: “I’m very proud to have done a lot of things in healthcare there because my healthcare background has really been the base of most of what I have done. But then what comes along in 2010 – I’m watching the very same thing that happened in the state of Tennessee happen at the national level. The passage of the Affordable Care Act – which I always say is neither affordable nor caring – and I’m watching once again this healthcare plan that is not offering people quality nor the cost of things they can afford.” In addition to her passion to improve healthcare policy, she is also driven by fiscal conservatism. On becoming a member of the Budget Committee, Black states: “The second reason why I came here beside the healthcare piece was that I was watching what was happening in my country about this awful debt and deficits we have… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-applauds-senate-confirmation-of-susan-bodine | Inhofe Applauds Senate Confirmation of Susan Bodine | 2017-12-07 | 2017 | 2017-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | Inhofe Applauds Senate Confirmation of Susan Bodine Thursday, December 7, 2017 U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) released the following statement after the Senate confirmed Susan Bodine to be assistant administrator of the Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance at the EPA: “I am pleased the Senate has finally confirmed Susan Bodine. As the former general counsel of the Environment and Public Works Committee and a former EPA staffer during President George W. Bush’s administration, Susan has a wealth of knowledge and experience making her the right person to work with Administrator Pruitt to faithfully enforce our environmental laws. I congratulate my good friend Susan on her confirmation, and look forward to working with her in her new role.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-lankford-touts-benefits-of-the-senate-tax-reform-bill | Senator Lankford Touts Benefits of the Senate Tax Reform Bill | 2017-12-07 | 2017 | 2017-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 12.07.17 Senator Lankford Touts Benefits of the Senate Tax Reform Bill Lankford: “A middle-income family in Oklahoma will have an increase in their take-home pay of $2,200” CLICK HERE to watch the video WASHINGTON, DC – Senator James Lankford (R-OK) today delivered a speech on the floor of the Senate to tout the benefits of the tax bill that passed the Senate on December 2. Lankford used the speech to clear up misinformation about the bill, and to explain how the bill would help middle class Oklahomans. This speech comes a day after Lankford penned an op-ed on the same topic. Excerpts: Mr. President, we're in the middle of a have very protracted conversation about tax reform. This conversation started in January. I heard people say it was rushed through at the end. It started in January. We’re starting into month twelve of this process. There were hearings in the House. There were hearings in the Senate… different drafts coming out, shot down, start all over again, and coming back and forth. We’re now starting our 12th month of going through this process. As we get close to the end, I want to outline a few things that we're actually working to be able to set back to this body to the American people what’s actually happening here. The focus of this from the beginning, from the very start of it, was two simple things: How can we reduce the rates for individuals so they can keep more of their own money and then spend their own money to stimulate the economy? The second aspect was, how can we simplify the system? There is a lot going on with the back and forth on the final details, but those two things are very clear. This dramatically simplifies the tax structure that we have and it reduces rates for people so that people have more of their own money to be table to spend. Businesses have more of their own money to be able to invest in their business, to pay their workers more, to be able to buy more equipm… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://mullin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=813 | Sens. Inhofe, Lankford, Rep. Mullin Praise Passage of Bill to Enhance Veteran Care | 2017-12-06 | 2017 | 2017-12 | Republican | House | OK | Markwayne Mullin | M001190 | mullin.house.gov | legacy | Senator James Inhofe (R-Okla.), Senator James Lankford (R-Okla.), and Congressman Markwayne Mullin (R-OK-2) praised the passage of S. 1266, the Enhancing Veteran Care Act, today in the U.S. House of Representatives. The Enhancing Veteran Care Act will allow the Directors of Veterans Integrated Service Networks (VISN) to enter into contracts with nonprofit organizations that accredit health care organization entities in order to ensure medical centers at the Department of Veterans Affairs are providing the highest quality care possible for our veterans. “Today we are one step closer to holding VA care providers accountable by granting VISN and medical center directors the permanent authority to request outside oversight of their medical facilities,” said Senator Inhofe. “Our veterans deserve the highest standard of patient care, and empowering regional leaders with greater oversight ability will improve veterans care in Oklahoma and across the country. I will continue to fight for the best veteran’s care possible and look forward to President Trump signing this bill into law quickly as yet another example of his strong commitment to our nation’s veterans.” “I’m pleased this important bill has passed the Congress and is now on its way to the President’s desk,” said Senator Lankford. “It will be another important tool for our leaders at our veteran’s facilities to ensure they’re able to provide the highest level of care for our veterans.” “Without a doubt, we want our veterans to receive health care that is second to none,” said Congressman Mullin. “The Enhancing Veteran Care Act will bring transparency and accountability to VA medical facilities so that we can ensure our veterans are receiving care equal to the best civilian hospitals. Just as patients often look for a second opinion, so too should our VA clinics be able to recruit a second opinion when it comes to evaluating their medical facilities and services. I’m proud to see this bill pass the House today with bipartisan support so that we can … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://mullin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=814 | Mullin Statement on President Trump Recognizing Jerusalem as Capital of Israel | 2017-12-06 | 2017 | 2017-12 | Republican | House | OK | Markwayne Mullin | M001190 | mullin.house.gov | legacy | Mullin Statement on President Trump Recognizing Jerusalem as Capital of Israel f t # e Washington, December 6, 2017 Congressman Markwayne Mullin (OK-2) released the following statement after President Trump recognized Jerusalem as the capital of the State of Israel and instructed the State Department to relocate the U.S. Embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem: “I commend President Trump on his decision to officially recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel,” said Mullin. “While previous presidents have spoken about this day for years without ever following through, President Trump has acted boldly to press on with a decision that receives broad, bipartisan support across Congress. Home to Israel’s legislature, Supreme Court, President, and Prime Minister, it is clear that Jerusalem is the rightful center of government in Israel. With Israel as our continued ally in the Middle East, I look forward to supporting President Trump in his efforts to foster peace between the Israelis and Palestinians.” f t # e | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://russell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-russell-introduces-international-anti-corruption-bill | Rep. Russell Introduces International Anti-Corruption Bill | 2017-12-06 | 2017 | 2017-12 | Republican | House | OK | Steve Russell | R000604 | russell.house.gov | legacy | Washington, DC – Rep. Steve Russell (OK-5) today introduced the Georgian Fair Business Practices Sanctions Act of 2017 (H.R. 4563). This legislation is a response to several examples of the Government of Georgia violating contracts with U.S. entities and our allies, often after significant investment of time, energy, and capital by U.S. individuals and entities. The Georgian Fair Business Practices Sanctions Act of 2017 would commission a semiannual report that determines whether or not the Government of Georgia is undermining commitments or contractual agreements made with U.S. persons, and identifies individuals responsible. Those individuals and the Government of Georgia would then be subject to U.S. sanctions. “I will stand with the Georgian people in their fight against corrupt business practices within their government.” said Rep. Russell. “I also stand with them in their fight against outside forces and oligarchs, including former Georgian officials, who seek to harm the free people of Georgia in their quest for free democratic governance and erode the friendship between the peoples of the United States and Georgia by continuing these dishonest practices.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://russell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=334 | Rep. Russell Introduces International Anti-Corruption Bill | 2017-12-06 | 2017 | 2017-12 | Republican | House | OK | Steve Russell | R000604 | russell.house.gov | legacy | Rep. Steve Russell (OK-5) today introduced the Georgian Fair Business Practices Sanctions Act of 2017 (H.R. 4563). This legislation is a response to several examples of the Government of Georgia violating contracts with U.S. entities and our allies, often after significant investment of time, energy, and capital by U.S. individuals and entities. The Georgian Fair Business Practices Sanctions Act of 2017 would commission a semiannual report that determines whether or not the Government of Georgia is undermining commitments or contractual agreements made with U.S. persons, and identifies individuals responsible. Those individuals and the Government of Georgia would then be subject to U.S. sanctions. I will stand with the Georgian people in their fight against corrupt business practices within their government. said Rep. Russell. I also stand with them in their fight against outside forces and oligarchs, including former Georgian officials, who seek to harm the free people of Georgia in their quest for free democratic governance and erode the friendship between the peoples of the United States and Georgia by continuing these dishonest practices. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-lankford-mullin-praise-passage-of-bill-to-enhance-veteran-care | Inhofe, Lankford, Mullin Praise Passage of Bill to Enhance Veteran Care | 2017-12-06 | 2017 | 2017-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | Inhofe, Lankford, Mullin Praise Passage of Bill to Enhance Veteran Care Wednesday, December 6, 2017 U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), Sen. James Lankford (R-Okla.) and Rep. Markwayne Mullin (OK-2) praised the passage of S. 1266, the Enhancing Veteran Care Act, today in the U.S. House of Representatives. The Enhancing Veteran Care Act will allow the Directors of Veterans Integrated Service Networks (VISN) to enter into contracts with nonprofit organizations that accredit health care organization entities in order to ensure medical centers at the Department of Veterans Affairs are providing the highest quality care possible for our veterans. “Today we are one step closer to holding VA care providers accountable by granting VISN and medical center directors the permanent authority to request outside oversight of their medical facilities,” Inhofe said. “Our veterans deserve the highest standard of patient care, and empowering regional leaders with greater oversight ability will improve veterans care in Oklahoma and across the country. I will continue to fight for the best veteran’s care possible and look forward to President Trump signing this bill into law quickly as yet another example of his strong commitment to our nation’s veterans.” “I’m pleased this important bill has passed the Congress and is now on its way to the President’s desk,” said Lankford. “It will be another important tool for our leaders at our veteran’s facilities to ensure they’re able to provide the highest level of care for our veterans.” “Without a doubt, we want our veterans to receive health care that is second to none,” Mullin said. “The Enhancing Veteran Care Act will bring transparency and accountability to VA medical facilities so that we can ensure our veterans are receiving care equal to the best civilian hospitals. Just as patients often look for a second opinion, so too should our VA clinics be able to recruit a second opinion … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-praises-presidents-statement-on-jerusalem- | Inhofe Praises President's Statement on Jerusalem | 2017-12-06 | 2017 | 2017-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | Inhofe Praises President's Statement on Jerusalem Wednesday, December 6, 2017 U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), one of the most pro-Israel members of the Senate, praised President Trump’s decision to recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel and eventually locate the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem: “I applaud President Trump for officially recognizing Jerusalem as the capital of Israel and beginning the process of moving our embassy to the Holy City. Not since supporting the creation of Israel in 1947 has the United States done more to uphold our strategic and long-standing ally, Israel. As an original cosponsor of the legislation that prompted this action, I look forward to supporting him and his administration over the next few years as they begin the process of moving the embassy to Jerusalem. “For over two decades, presidents of both parties have delayed the implementation of the 1995 Jerusalem Embassy Act, leading to confusion about U.S. policy and preventing meaningful progress to forming a lasting peace. With his clear commitment to Israel, President Trump is once again showing the world he’s prepared to take decisive action and restore the United States to being the undisputed leader of the free world.” Sen. Jim Inhofe was an original cosponsor of the 1995 Jerusalem Embassy Act. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-statement-on-the-nomination-of-gregory-slavonic- | Inhofe Statement on the Nomination of Gregory Slavonic | 2017-12-06 | 2017 | 2017-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | Inhofe Statement on the Nomination of Gregory Slavonic Wednesday, December 6, 2017 U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) released a statement in support of President Trump's announcement of his intent to nominate Gregory Slavonic to be Assistant Secretary of the Navy, Manpower and Reserve Affairs: “My good friend and fellow Oklahoman, Gregory Slavonic, is an outstanding choice for Assistant Secretary of the Navy, Manpower and Reserve Affairs. Throughout his 34-year career in the Navy and as Chief of Staff to Sen. James Lankford, Greg has served his country and his home state of Oklahoma with great honor and distinction. I congratulate him on his nomination and look forward to his swift consideration before the Senate Armed Services Committee.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-talks-tax-reform-and-national-defense-on-the-radio- | Inhofe Talks Tax Reform and National Defense on the Radio | 2017-12-06 | 2017 | 2017-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | Sen. Inhofe and Hugh Hewitt talked national defense and the Hewitt Amendment, an amendment to the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act that Inhofe introduced in the Senate after taking in to consideration what he previously heard on The Hugh Hewitt Show. On the Hewitt Amendment: “I think it is ingenious, and it is the only thing out there. I cannot think of one thing out there that is going to have an immediate thrust of generation of revenue in the first few weeks, or actually, days.” Listen to the full segment here. Sen. Inhofe and Ron Hays of the Oklahoma Farm Report talked tax reform, the death tax and the success of Scott Pruitt’s EPA. On Scott Pruitt’s work to roll back WOTUS: “He is going to get it done as fast as we can and we are directing the EPA to rescind it … this is going to happen.” Listen to the full segment here. Sen. Inhofe and Rick Brady of KGYN in Guymon talked tax reform, deregulation and missile defense. On the threat of North Korea: “It is a scary thing, the threat we are facing now. I think of it in terms of my 20 kids and grandkids, Rick. You know, that—that is something I never thought we would have to face in my lifetime, but it is here now.” Listen to the full segment here. Sen. Inhofe and Phillip Larsen of Crossover Radio talked the Museum of the Bible, tax reform, working across party lines and DACA. On tax reform: “In 1981 … Reagan came along and changed all the structures down. … The result of that was huge increases in revenue coming in. … The problem was, that the Democrats, who are the bigger spending party, they were in charge of the House and the Senate during that time. So as more revenue came in, they increase spending. So, the revenue came up, but the deficit still increased at that time. This is going to be different … As the revenue comes in, we are going to reduce the debt, we are going to be doing things, and also repairing our military at the same time. So, we are in the midst of something huge that is go… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/in-the-news/senator-lankford-in-the-oklahoman-tax-reform-will-help-oklahomas-economy | Senator Lankford in The Oklahoman: Tax reform will help Oklahoma's economy | 2017-12-06 | 2017 | 2017-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 12.06.17 Senator Lankford in The Oklahoman: Tax reform will help Oklahoma's economy It has been more than 30 years since there was a major change in federal tax policy. Thankfully, the Senate passed a tax reform bill last week that will simplify our tax code, cut taxes in all brackets and help grow the economy. During the past 70 years, the American economy has grown at around 3 percent or more a year, on average. But in the past 10 years, economic growth has collectively averaged only 2 percent, and last year, our GDP was just 1.5 percent for the year. We must get our economy moving again, because a healthy economy will increase jobs, productivity and wages for Oklahomans. The Senate tax bill provides middle-class relief. It lowers individual rates and doubles the standard deduction. For an individual, the standard deduction goes from $6,350 to $12,000; and for a married couple, it goes from $12,700 to $24,000. The Child Tax Credit doubles from the current $1,000 to $2,000, and the first $24,000 of income for a family is tax free. The average federal tax reduction for households of income between $30,000 and $40,000 is about $4,000 less. Our bill also doubles school supply deduction for teacher expenses, from $250 to $500. This Senate tax bill makes no changes to Medicaid or Medicare, but it does give relief from the Obamacare individual mandate tax, which hits middle-class families the hardest. In Oklahoma, about 80 percent of the mandate taxes have been paid by people who make less than $50,000 a year. Even though this tax is repealed, the Obamacare subsidies to purchase insurance remain. Our bill gives a lower rate for small businesses so they can hire more people, buy new equipment, and compete with major corporations. Companies need a reason to keep their business in America, rather than move it overseas where taxes are lower. To do this, our bill lowers the corporate tax rate from 35 percent, one of the highest in the world, to 20 percent. This would make us competitive internationally. T… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-lankford-chief-of-staff-nominated-assistant-secretary-of-the-navy | Senator Lankford Chief of Staff Nominated Assistant Secretary of the Navy | 2017-12-06 | 2017 | 2017-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 12.06.17 Senator Lankford Chief of Staff Nominated Assistant Secretary of the Navy WASHINGTON, DC – Senator James Lankford (R-OK) today applauded the President’s nomination of Retired Rear Admiral Gregory Slavonic to be the Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Manpower and Reserve Affairs. Slavonic is a native Oklahoman and currently serves as Chief of Staff in the Office of Senator Lankford. “Rear Admiral Greg Slavonic is the model of public service. He has dutifully served our nation in the Navy, and he has served the people of Oklahoma as my Chief of Staff. He has been nominated to serve our country again in the Department of Defense. I am very proud of his long career and dedication to this nation. Greg has been my Chief of Staff for three years. His leadership will be missed on our team, but he will be a tremendous asset to the Navy. I fully support his nomination and look forward to Greg continuing his distinguished career as Assistant Secretary of the Navy.” Prior to Slavonic’s role in Lankford’s office, he was a senior leader at the Computer Sciences Corporation, where he planned and executed several nationwide US Navy community outreach engagements. He also served as Executive Director of the Jim Thorpe Association; and as President of Flagbridge Strategic Communications, a consulting company focused on strategic communications and leadership. Mr. Slavonic retired from the US Navy after a 34-year career, where he originally enlisted as a Seaman Recruit and, after repeatedly distinguishing himself, was promoted to the rank of Rear Admiral. During his Navy career, he held four command assignments, served in combat deployments to Vietnam, Operation Desert Shield/Storm, and Operation Iraqi Freedom, and was awarded numerous decorations including the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star, Presidential Unit Citation, and Combat Action Ribbon. Mr. Slavonic earned a BS from Oklahoma State University and M.Ed. from the University of Central Oklahoma, where he was recognized with a Distinguished Alumni Aw… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-lankford-supports-presidents-decision-to-recognize-jerusalem-as-israeli-capital | Senator Lankford Supports Presidents Decision to Recognize Jerusalem as Israeli Capital | 2017-12-06 | 2017 | 2017-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 12.06.17 Senator Lankford Supports President’s Decision to Recognize Jerusalem as Israeli Capital Congress Has Long Supported This Action With Broad Bipartisan Support WASHINGTON, DC – Senator James Lankford (R-OK) today applauded the President’s decision to recognize Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, an action that Congress has supported for decades on a strong bipartisan basis: “After more than two decades of bipartisan requests from Congress, I applaud the President’s recognition of Jerusalem as the capital of Israel and the start of a long process to move the US Embassy to Jerusalem. The Government of Israel officially resides in Jerusalem; ignoring the obvious physical location of the Israeli Knesset and the office of the Prime Minister in West Jerusalem does not bring the region closer to peace, it only placates those that want to destabilize the region. Israel is not the problem in the Middle East, it is part of the solution. Nothing about today’s announcement will impact America’s commitment to honor any solution which brings about peace resulting from direct talks between the Israelis and Palestinians. Israel is America's closest friend in the Middle East and she is a solid partner in research, strategic defense, and freedom. We have a unique relationship and a special bond among nations.” In 1995, Congress passed the Jerusalem Embassy Act of 1995 with broad bipartisan support in the Senate by a 93-5 vote and in the House by a 374–37 vote. This law states that it is US policy that Jerusalem should remain an undivided city, that Jerusalem should be recognized as the capital of Israel, and that the US Embassy in Israel should be located in Jerusalem. The Foreign Relations Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2003, which also passed with bipartisan majorities in the House and Senate, urged the President to immediately begin relocating the Embassy to Jerusalem pursuant to the 1995 law. Most recently, on June … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/about/books-im-reading/books-im-reading-december-2017 | Books I'm Reading: December 2017 | 2017-12-05 | 2017 | 2017-12 | Republican | House | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | As an eternal learner, I am constantly reading. I invite you each month to follow along with what I'm currently reading or check back periodically for hand-picked selections of my favorites. Here's what I'm reading this month: On My Desk The Fate of Rome by Kyle Harper Nudge by Richard Thaler and Cass Sustein | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-praises-senate-confirmation-of-kirstjen-nielsen- | Inhofe Praises Senate Confirmation of Kirstjen Nielsen | 2017-12-05 | 2017 | 2017-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | Inhofe Praises Senate Confirmation of Kirstjen Nielsen Tuesday, December 5, 2017 U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) released the following statement today after the Senate confirmed the nomination of Kirstjen Nielsen to be Secretary of Homeland Security: “I am pleased the Senate confirmed Kirstjen Nielsen to serve as the Secretary of Homeland Security today. Her extensive experience in public security and working in the administration makes her the right choice to lead DHS. I look forward to working with Ms. Nielsen on addressing some of the greatest threats to our homeland, including border security and disaster response.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-lankford-introduces-bill-to-strengthen-border-security-improve-immigration-system | Senator Lankford Introduces Bill to Strengthen Border Security, Improve Immigration System | 2017-12-05 | 2017 | 2017-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 12.05.17 Senator Lankford Introduces Bill to Strengthen Border Security, Improve Immigration System CLICK HERE to watch the video WASHINGTON, DC – Senator James Lankford (R-OK) today joined other Senators to introduce the Security, Enforcement, and Compassion United in Reform Efforts, (SECURE) Act, a bill that aims to strengthen border security and improve interior immigration enforcement. The bill also contains provisions from several immigration proposals, including Senator Dick Durbin’s (D-IL) bipartisan BRIDGE Act, which protects DACA recipients from deportation. The SECURE Act is cosponsored by Senators Chuck Grassley (R-IA), chairman of the Judiciary Committee, Tom Cotton (R-AR), John Cornyn (R-TX), Thom Tillis (R-NC), and David Perdue (R-GA). Moments after introducing the bill this afternoon, Lankford joined the other bill sponsors in a series of speeches on the Senate floor. CLICK HERE to watch Lankford’s speech. “An essential part of national security is border security. Every nation has the right to know who comes into their country,” said Lankford. “For decades, the United States has ignored obvious issues in our immigration policy, which has only made the problem worse. The President and many Members of Congress believe a DACA solution should be combined with a permanent fix to the many broken elements in our nation’s border security and immigration system. The SECURE Act is a first step to bring everyone to the table to negotiate a common-sense solution to DACA and issues related to illegal immigration. It is my hope that in the months ahead, Republicans and Democrats will come together so that we can provide the certainty that families deserve and the border security our country desperately needs.” “This legislation combines common-sense border security and interior enforcement reforms with Senators Graham’s and Durbin’s bipartisan solution on DACA,” said Chairman Grassley. “It restores integrity to our immigration system by cracking down on illegal immigration and criminal immigrant… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-lankford-supports-confirmation-of-kirstjen-nielsen-as-dhs-secretary | Senator Lankford Supports Confirmation of Kirstjen Nielsen as DHS Secretary | 2017-12-05 | 2017 | 2017-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 12.05.17 Senator Lankford Supports Confirmation of Kirstjen Nielsen as DHS Secretary WASHINGTON, DC – Senator James Lankford (R-OK) today released the following statement in support of the confirmation of Kirstjen Nielsen to be the next Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security by a vote of 62 to 37: “I’m glad Kirstjen Nielsen has been confirmed as the next DHS Secretary. She has an impressive resume and extensive experience working at DHS that will serve us well as she leads the agency. Her background in cybersecurity is vital as we continue to confront and protect against those who wish to do our country harm through cyber-attacks. I am also confident that she will be a strong leader as the agency works to improve our nation’s border security.” Lankford met with Ms. Nielsen on October 18 in his office to discuss her vision for the agency. Lankford serves on the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs and Intelligence Committees. ### Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/enforcing-and-reforming-our-immigration-system | Enforcing and Reforming Our Immigration System | 2017-12-04 | 2017 | 2017-12 | Republican | House | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | In America, we are fortunate to be a land of opportunity and to be one that is shaped by immigrants from all over the world. Likewise, law and justice also shapes our nation. Many immigrants have entered the United States legally and have thrived. In recent years though, our nation has been home to millions of illegal immigrants, and the laws that are supposed to protect our borders have failed to do so. Kate Steinle is one American citizen who paid the ultimate price for that failure. She was tragically murdered by an illegal immigrant who had entered the country illegally not once, but six times. Her death was the result of failed border security and disastrous sanctuary city policies. In 2015, she was shot and killed by Jose Ines Garcia Zarate while on a walk in San Francisco. Last week, a jury found Zarate guilty of only one felony – possession of a firearm. He was acquitted of her murder. But regardless of the circumstances in the incident, Zarate had been deported five times – and was back in the United States, living in a sanctuary city. Had the law been enforced, Kate Steinle’s death could have been prevented. Securing our borders must be a national priority. It is entirely unacceptable that anyone could enter our country illegally six different times and then be allowed to seek safe haven in a sanctuary city. During his time in the United States, he had possession of illegal drugs and had been arrested for those crimes. Even after being arrested for possession of marijuana, he was still released and a request from federal officials for his deportation was not followed. This year, the House and President Trump have called for stronger borders, with an additional $1.6 billion in federal funding going toward enhanced border security. One of the major flaws in our current immigration system has been the existence of so-called “sanctuary cities.” Sanctuary cities are cities that refuse cooperation with the federal government and immigration officials in relation to immigration laws. San Francisco has be… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-enzi-introduce-resolution-recognizing-us-partnership-with-ethiopia | Inhofe, Enzi Introduce Resolution Recognizing U.S. Partnership with Ethiopia | 2017-12-04 | 2017 | 2017-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | Inhofe, Enzi Introduce Resolution Recognizing U.S. Partnership with Ethiopia Monday, December 4, 2017 WASHINGTON – U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) and Sen. Mike Enzi (R-Wyo.) introduced a resolution today recognizing the important and vital partnership between the United States and the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia: “Ethiopia is a strategic partner for the United States in East Africa,” Inhofe said. “We have a long and respected history of working together to promote peace and stability throughout the region. As Ethiopia continues to improve its governance as a growing power in the region, it is appropriate for us to reaffirm our security commitment to Ethiopia with training and assistance to counter terrorism and violent extremism throughout Africa.” “Our vital strategic partnership with Ethiopia is grounded in a long history of cooperation,” Enzi said. “It is important, as Ethiopia continues to play an essential role in the peace and stability of the region, we reaffirm our security commitments and will continue to work with our partner to promote the values of peace and democracy.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-lankford-releases-federal-fumbles-vol-3 | Senator Lankford Releases Federal Fumbles Vol. 3 | 2017-12-02 | 2017 | 2017-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 12.02.17 Senator Lankford Releases Federal Fumbles Vol. 3 WASHINGTON, DC – Senator James Lankford (R-OK) today released his annual government waste and solutions report. This is the third volume of Lankford’s report entitled, Federal Fumbles: 100 ways the government dropped the ball. The report lists $473.6 billion in wasteful and inefficient federal spending, but also lists solutions to each of the examples of government waste. The current United States federal debt is $20.49 trillion. The one-year deficit for Fiscal Year 2017 was $666 billion. CLICK HERE to access the report. “During 2017, we’ve worked to roll back wasteful spending and a number of harmful and burdensome regulations from the two previous Federal Fumbles reports,” said Lankford. “The outrageous federal deficit remains too high. Unfortunately, Washington, DC seems to be distracted and the deficit has started increasing again. Our $20 trillion national debt will continue to increase until we implement spending cuts, government reforms, and create a healthy economy. This Federal Fumbles report provides commonsense examples of ways to limit our spending and fix government inefficiency. Every American should have access to how their tax dollars are spent. Congress should pass my Taxpayers Right to Know Act to give each American the opportunity to see how their hard-earned tax dollars are spent.” Lankford released the report at a press conference in Washington, DC this morning. CLICK HERE to play video. CLICK HERE for a summary of the report. Excerpts from Press Conference: On the importance of addressing the debt and deficit: This book is designed to be a reminder that we still have an issue with debt and deficit in America. For some reason, the conversation has slowed on the issue of debt and deficit. It should not. This should be an ongoing part of our conversation. Starting in 2010 when our deficit was 1.4 trillion dollars, it was an epic deficit that caught the nation’s attention because it had grown so incredibly large. Since … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-lankford-supports-senate-tax-reform-bill | Senator Lankford Supports Senate Tax Reform Bill | 2017-12-02 | 2017 | 2017-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 12.02.17 Senator Lankford Supports Senate Tax Reform Bill Tax Bill Lowers All Middle-Income Tax Brackets, Doubles Child Tax Credit & Boosts Economic Growth WASHINGTON, DC – Senator James Lankford (R-OK) today voted in favor of the Senate version of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, which passed by a vote of 51 to 49. The House passed their version of the bill on November 16, 2017. The differences between the two bills will now be worked out in a conference committee between the House and Senate. Once the conferenced bill is approved by both chambers, it goes to the President’s desk for his signature. “The American economy is stuck,” said Lankford. “For a decade our economy has been anemic, growing at half the normal rate of growth. Slow economic growth means stagnant wages, fewer new jobs, less construction, and fewer opportunities for people just starting their career. “Eight years ago, Democrats in Congress passed a massive government debt-funded stimulus bill to jump-start the economy, but years later, the economy remains stuck. Today, Congress took a different path to economic growth, allowing people to save or spend their own money in their own way. Tax policy should be primarily about funding the basic needs of our government with the least amount of intrusion possible. This tax reform bill provides much-needed relief to Oklahomans by lowering tax rates for the middle class, doubling the standard deduction and child tax credit, as well as repealing the mandate tax to buy government-approved healthcare. The bill also helps small and large businesses by reducing the rates and encouraging businesses to buy new equipment and hire more workers. Lankford continued, “One of the most difficult aspects for the American people has been to separate fact from fiction in this tax debate. Partisan political spin is easy in a bill this complicated. While people are free to say or post on a website anything they choos… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-praises-senate-passage-of-historic-tax-cuts | Inhofe Praises Senate Passage of Historic Tax Cuts | 2017-12-01 | 2017 | 2017-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | Inhofe Praises Senate Passage of Historic Tax Cuts Friday, December 1, 2017 U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), a member of the Senate Committee on Small Business, voted in favor of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, the first comprehensive tax reform legislation in 30 years: “This is the biggest tax cut in history and it will cause dramatic economic growth for years to come. Oklahomans have been struggling for eight years under a sluggish economy, stagnant wages and non-existent job growth. Our tax cut supports families by doubling the child tax credit and the standard deduction, while maintaining provisions families rely on, like the adoption tax credit, the charitable giving deduction and the mortgage deduction. The typical American family will see a tax cut of approximately $2,200, plus unprecedented economic growth and job creation. “We’ve made doing businesses in the United States competitive again, so companies are no longer encouraged to move American jobs overseas. Economists from around the country predict this bill will further increase our nation’s GDP by a full percentage point—which will lead to $2.9 trillion in revenue that will address the deficit. We’re already seeing how President Trump is growing the economy by cutting regulations—this tax cut will only do more to drive the engine of the American economy to new heights and benefit hardworking families. “I look forward to working with President Trump and my colleagues as we continue to fight for what Oklahoma families want—to keep more of their hard earned dollars.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-sullivan-call-for-increased-missile-defense-technology | Inhofe, Sullivan Call for Increased Missile Defense Technology | 2017-12-01 | 2017 | 2017-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | Inhofe, Sullivan Call for Increased Missile Defense Technology Friday, December 1, 2017 U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) and Sen. Dan Sullivan (R-AK), members of the Senate Armed Services Committee, sent a letter to the Senate Appropriations Committee today supporting the development of new technologies for missile defense. “…North Korean ballistic missiles will have the capability of striking the United States by the end of 2018 with a thermonuclear warhead. We greatly appreciate the robust $9.3 billion, which is $1.4 billion above the President’s request, in funding for missile defense to counter the growing threat,” the senators write. The letter continues: “We support the overall supplemental request, and, in particular, the provision allocating funding for new missile defense technologies and urge the Appropriations Committee to designate $100 million for the rapid development and deployment of new kinetic Boost Phase missile defense technology. This is in line with the recently passed National Defense Authorization Act for 2018 which included a provision calling for the Department of Defense to develop such a Boost Phase Intercept system ‘as soon as practicable.’” Read the full letter here. This letter follows Sen. Inhofe’s call for increased investment in missile defense after North Korea’s latest ballistic missile test on Tuesday. Sen. Inhofe also spoke on the floor on Wednesday, highlighting the history of missile defense in America and outlining why it is especially critical that we invest in new technologies. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-addresses-energy-and-climate-policy-summit | Inhofe Addresses Energy and Climate Policy Summit | 2017-11-30 | 2017 | 2017-11 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | Inhofe Addresses Energy and Climate Policy Summit Thursday, November 30, 2017 U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), a senior member of the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works (EPW), gave remarks to “At the Crossroads IV: Energy & Climate Policy Summit” hosted by the Heritage Foundation and the Texas Public Policy Foundation. Senator Inhofe spoke about the regulatory success under President Trump and the revival of American energy. Click here to watch Inhofe’s remarks. Key Excerpts: On Regulations: The regulations, that’s the big thing that people don’t understand. When I read in the paper…that the president hasn’t done anything, that’s just wrong…if you just take the regulations that he has changed, I have a list…this shows all of the current regulations, we’re up to 66 regulations, that we have either taken out or are in the process… Growth in American Energy: I know you know about the Obama War on fossil fuels…we depend on fossil fuels and nuclear for 80 percent of the power it takes to run this machine called America. How are you going to run the machine if you do away with it? … The International Energy Agency said that the United States will be the undisputed leader in oil and gas for decades to come. Continental Oil, that’s another guy from Oklahoma…has already started exporting oil to China. You got to keep in mind, this is also a huge thing for national security. All the former Soviet Union satellites around Russia, they don’t want to buy their oil from Russia. They want to buy it from the United States…we are opening this up and have increased our exports… On Climate Change: The bottom line is that we’ve won…if you look at the polling that took place… At that time [2002], the March Gallup poll showed that global warming was the number one issue in America. Now it is number 15. The people have caught on. They know that the science is not definite, hasn’t been decided yet. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-speaks-about-missile-defense | Inhofe Speaks About Missile Defense | 2017-11-30 | 2017 | 2017-11 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | Inhofe Speaks About Missile Defense "We don’t have the luxury of time" Thursday, November 30, 2017 U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), spoke on the Senate floor yesterday about the North Korea’s missile launch earlier this week and the importance of funding United States missile defense. Click here to view remarks. Key Excerpts: “Adversaries, like North Korea, are developing ballistic missiles with increasing range and accuracy. It is important for us here in the Senate to communicate to the American people the credible, grave, and immediate threat that we face. Today, the world is more dangerous than it has ever been before. …’ “…I have actually been here on the Floor on this issue in 2001, 2009, 2012, and this will be the third time this year. Over the last 30 years, we have witnessed our missile defense programs go through dramatic investment changes from administration to administration depending on who is president. … “… Now, yesterday—that was the big day—yesterday it finally happened. Yesterday, North Korea proved that it could reliably range the entire continental United States with a test of its latest developed and newest version of their ICBM. … “… It is important to remember that all the power is being wielded by the erratic despot, Kim Jong Un. We don’t have the luxury of time. He has stated that his goal is to attain a nuclear capable ICBM that can annihilate the United States. Each and every day he gets closer to his goal and yesterday he proved that it could be done. …” Read Sen. Inhofe’s full remarks as prepared for delivery . Mr. President, for twenty years I have viewed the development and deployment of a layered ballistic missile defense shield as vital to our national security. The experience we had yesterday—we witnessed yesterday—is something we have been talking about for a long time that was going to happen. Sometimes our DIA, the Defense Intelligence Agency, said it was going to happen five years from now, then four years from now… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-lankfords-respect-act-passes-senate | Senator Lankfords RESPECT Act Passes Senate | 2017-11-30 | 2017 | 2017-11 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 11.30.17 Senator Lankford’s RESPECT Act Passes Senate WASHINGTON, DC – Senator James Lankford (R-OK)’s Repealing Existing Substandard Provisions Encouraging Conciliation with Tribes (RESPECT) Act was adopted by the Senate by unanimous consent. The bill would repeal several outdated, offensive federal laws against Native Americans, including unenforced laws currently in place subjecting Native Americans to forced labor. Specific to Oklahoma, the bill would repeal a 100-year old law that allowed for the forced removal of Native American children from their homes to attend boarding schools without the consent of the child’s parents. “Senate passage of the RESPECT Act takes us one step closer to removing old, disgraceful laws that have not been enforced for generations,” said Lankford. “I’m grateful to the Senate for passing this bill that addresses the important significance to repeal these outdated, offensive laws.” Lankford cosponsored the RESPECT Act during the 114th Congress, where it passed out of the Senate Indian Affairs Committee unanimously. Due to time constraints on the Senate Calendar, it was not voted on by the full Senate in 2016. The bill was originally introduced by Senator Mike Rounds (R-SD). ### Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://russell.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/nssf-qa-us-rep-steve-d-russell-r-okla | NATIONAL SHOOTING SPORTS FOUNDATION Q&A: U.S. REP. STEVE D. RUSSELL (R-OKLA.) | 2017-11-29 | 2017 | 2017-11 | Republican | House | OK | Steve Russell | R000604 | russell.house.gov | legacy | U.S. Rep. Steve D. Russell brings a unique perspective on firearms to the House of Representatives. He’s a career soldier, collector of military firearms and is the only one on Capitol Hill who is an active firearms manufacturer. Rep. Russell’s admiration for firearms is deeply-rooted in his calling to serve in the U.S. Army as an infantry soldier. He served tours in Kosovo, Kuwait, Afghanistan and Iraq, where he commanded a task force that captured former Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein. He chronicled the mission in his memoir, “We Got Him.” Following his military career, he formed successive veteran’s advocacy groups and ran for and won an open seat in Oklahoma’s state Senate in 2008. It was there, Russell, turned a career of carrying a rifle, into a new calling of ensuring the right to bear arms was respected. Victories at the state level included hunting with suppressors, open carry legislation, and clearing up language on “shall issue” questions with respect to mental health. But it wasn’t until 2010 when Russell went from firearms enthusiast to manufacturer. He couldn’t bring home rifles he saw during his combat tours in Iraq. So he made one. “With that in mind, I found an existing rifle and altered its appearance, made it look like an Iraqi rifle,” Rep. Russell explained. “Some of my veteran buddies asked, ‘Where’d you get that?’ I said, “Aw, I just made these changes to this rifle. So they said, ‘If I got one, would you do that to mine?’ I said sure. After a half a dozen of those, I thought there might be something to this.” That was the birth of Two Rivers Arms, a company that’s still producing firearms and even caught the eye of legendary actor and director Clint Eastwood as he was filming “American Sniper,” the biopic on former Navy SEAL Chris Kyle. “Our biggest claim to fame is our rifles were featured in Clint Eastwood’s “American Sniper.” We made the Tabuk sniper rifles for the film; one for the actor, one for the body double and we made four of the Iraqi AK’s that the insurgents used as extras in the… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-condemns-north-korea-missile-test-calls-for-increased-missile-defense | Inhofe Condemns North Korea Missile Test, Calls for Increased Missile Defense | 2017-11-28 | 2017 | 2017-11 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | Inhofe Condemns North Korea Missile Test, Calls for Increased Missile Defense Tuesday, November 28, 2017 U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, called for increased and targeted investment in missile defense capabilities after North Korea’s latest ballistic missile test: “North Korea has been clear—they will not stop their aggressive behavior towards the United States and our allies until they have achieved a missile capable of reaching the United States with a nuclear warhead. While we must continue to pursue economic and diplomatic efforts with our strategic partners in the region, it is vital for the safety of American families to strengthen and grow our missile defense capabilities in the boost, mid-course, and terminal phases. We cannot afford to wait any longer.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-lankford-discusses-federal-fumbles-on-the-senate-floor- | Senator Lankford Discusses Federal Fumbles on the Senate Floor | 2017-11-28 | 2017 | 2017-11 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 11.28.17 Senator Lankford Discusses Federal Fumbles on the Senate Floor Lankford: “Deficit and growing debt affects every single American.” CLICK HERE to view the video WASHINGTON, DC – Senator James Lankford (R-OK) today spoke on the Senate floor about the third volume of Federal Fumbles: 100 ways the government dropped the ball. Lankford’s annual government waste and solutions report list $473.6 billion in wasteful and inefficient federal spending, but also lists solutions to each of the examples of government waste. Lankford released the report on Monday during a press conference. CLICK HERE to access the report. The current United States federal debt is $20.49 trillion. The one-year deficit for Fiscal Year 2017 was $666 billion. Excerpts: On the need to address the federal deficit: I want to be able to address this body to talk about an issue that we don't talk about enough, the deficit. It's an issue for whatever reason we've stopped talking about in Washington, DC. We're talking about tax policy, as we should. We're talking about disaster relief areas, which we should. Talking about healthcare policies, which we should. A lot of other things. We have stopped talking about debt and deficit. I think that's a mistake for us. See, as the trend has moved, since 2011, at a high point when the deficit spending that year was $1.3 trillion in overspending in a single year. Since that point, deficits have gone down a little bit each year until 2015. In 2016, our deficit number, that's a single year overspending, started going back up. It went up in 2016. It went up again in 2017. [We are] turning the wrong direction. As you will recall and as many people in this body would recall, deficits were a major topic for us starting in 2010. And each year, Congress was trying to find ways to be able to reduce the deficit. That doesn't seem to be the issue anymore. On the need to reform the budget process: There i… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/north-korea-belongs-list | North Korea Belongs on the List | 2017-11-27 | 2017 | 2017-11 | Republican | House | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | In late 1987, a Korean Air flight traveling from Seoul, South Korea to Baghdad, Iraq, was bombed by North Korean agents killing all 115 people on board. This event, evidence of clear terrorist motives, prompted the Reagan Administration to designate North Korea as a state sponsor of terrorism. Today, the United States still grapples with the often unpredictable and volatile nature of North Korea and the regime of its dictator, Kim Jong-un. And earlier this week, President Trump made the decision to re-list North Korea as a state sponsor of terrorism, and promoted a new wave of tougher sanctions on the hermit state. The list of state sponsors of terrorism began in 1979 and is managed by the U.S. Department of State. The nations that are placed on the list are alleged to have "repeatedly provided support for acts of international terrorism." Although the list has remained small over the years, it has been a symbolic mark of heightened pressure on our enemies and a measure of heavy, unilateral sanctions. North Korea joins Iran, Sudan and Syria on the current list. After 20 years on the list, the Bush Administration made the decision to remove North Korea as a state sponsor of terrorism in 2008, in hopes that it would prompt talks toward peace and denuclearization. But since then, it has not been evident that North Korea is making, or will be making any effort to reduce nuclear development, end its human rights violations and halt support of terrorism within its own borders and those of other nations. It is no secret that in recent months North Korea has been staging a number of nuclear missile tests to strike fear and talks of war across the globe. The United States has taken each test and rogue action by the Kim regime very seriously. Additionally, the untimely deaths of Kim Jong-nam, Kim Jong-un’s brother, and Otto Warmbier, the American student detained in the nation recently, have left no question that the Kim regime is capable of initiating harm against anyone anywhere in the world. Along with heig… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://russell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-russell-good-government-bill-signed-law | Rep. Russell Good Government Bill Signed Into Law | 2017-11-27 | 2017 | 2017-11 | Republican | House | OK | Steve Russell | R000604 | russell.house.gov | legacy | Washington, DC – Last week, the Federal Agency Mail Management Act of 2017 (H.R. 194), introduced by Rep. Steve Russell (OK-5) earlier this Congress, was signed into law by President Trump. This bill corrects an error Congress made in recent years that put federal mail processing guidance under the authority of the National Archives and Records Administration. The Federal Agency Mail Management Act of 2017 amends the Presidential and Federal Records Act Amendments of 2014 to require the General Services Administration (GSA) to provide guidance and assistance to federal agencies for effective mail processing. H.R. 194 requires the GSA to promote economy and efficiency in the selection and utilization of space, staff, equipment, and supplies for federal mail processing facilities. In this capacity the GSA may inspect the mail processing practices and programs of federal agencies for purposes of recommending improvements. The bill also authorizes the GSA to set goals for the establishment and maintenance of federal records management systems or techniques. In designating the GSA as the sole authority on federal mail processing, H.R. 194 makes the government more efficient and more responsive to mail received by federal agencies. According to a House Oversight and Government Reform Committee report, the GSA has provided oversight on more than $1.15 billion in mail-related expenditures for federal agencies. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://russell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=332 | Rep. Russell Good Government Bill Signed Into Law | 2017-11-27 | 2017 | 2017-11 | Republican | House | OK | Steve Russell | R000604 | russell.house.gov | legacy | Last week, the Federal Agency Mail Management Act of 2017 (H.R. 194), introduced by Rep. Steve Russell (OK-5) earlier this Congress, was signed into law by President Trump. This bill corrects an error Congress made in recent years that put federal mail processing guidance under the authority of the National Archives and Records Administration. The Federal Agency Mail Management Act of 2017 amends the Presidential and Federal Records Act Amendments of 2014 to require the General Services Administration (GSA) to provide guidance and assistance to federal agencies for effective mail processing. H.R. 194 requires the GSA to promote economy and efficiency in the selection and utilization of space, staff, equipment, and supplies for federal mail processing facilities. In this capacity the GSA may inspect the mail processing practices and programs of federal agencies for purposes of recommending improvements. The bill also authorizes the GSA to set goals for the establishment and maintenance of federal records management systems or techniques. In designating the GSA as the sole authority on federal mail processing, H.R. 194 makes the government more efficient and more responsive to mail received by federal agencies. According to a House Oversight and Government Reform Committee report, the GSA has provided oversight on more than $1.15 billion in mail-related expenditures for federal agencies. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-lankford-releases-federal-government-waste-report | Senator Lankford Releases Federal Government Waste Report | 2017-11-27 | 2017 | 2017-11 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 11.27.17 Senator Lankford Releases Federal Government Waste Report WASHINGTON, DC – During a press conference, Senator James Lankford (R-OK) today released his annual government waste and solutions report. This is the third volume of Lankford’s book entitled, Federal Fumbles: 100 ways the government dropped the ball. The report lists $473.6 billion in wasteful and inefficient federal spending and solutions to each of the examples of government waste. The current federal debt is $20.49 trillion. The one-year deficit for Fiscal Year 2017 was $666 billion. “During 2017, we’ve worked to roll back wasteful spending and a number of harmful and burdensome regulations from the two previous Federal Fumbles reports,” said Lankford. “The outrageous federal deficit remains too high. Unfortunately, Washington, DC seems to be distracted and the deficit has started increasing again. Our $20 trillion national debt will continue to increase until we implement spending cuts, government reforms, and create a healthy economy. This Federal Fumbles report provides commonsense examples of ways to limit our spending and fix government inefficiency. Every American should have access to how their tax dollars are spent. Congress should pass my Taxpayers Right to Know Act to give each American the opportunity to see how their hard-earned tax dollars are spent.” CLICK HERE to access the full report. CLICK HERE for a summary of the report. CLICK HERE to watch Senator Lankford's press conference. ### Print Email Tweet Previous Article | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/working-efficient-tax-system | A Working Tax System | 2017-11-21 | 2017 | 2017-11 | Republican | House | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | When President Ronald Reagan implemented a sweeping reform of our nation’s tax system in 1986, it helped millions of Americans from different walks of life save money and kicked off an era of strong economic growth. A little more than three decades later, our tax code has become severely outdated. For the last several weeks, the House has been working through the legislative process to craft a bill aimed at fixing the current tax code and creating one that will support the individual, families and American businesses – something that is long overdue. Last week, the House was able to accomplish the first step in major tax reform through the passage of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (H.R. 1), which will give Americans the opportunity to keep more of their hard-earned pay. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act is a new system that simplifies the current tax code and promotes substantial economic growth through corporate tax reform. It promotes individual prosperity and American ingenuity. To start, the individual will see a serious tax break. Before, individual filing was divided into seven brackets. Under the reformed system, it consolidates the number of brackets into four – 12%, 25%, 35% and 39.6% - which helps a variety income levels. In addition to doubling the standard deduction and additional tax credits, with lowered tax rates, it is a system that will give Americans more opportunities to prepare for life events like retirement and home ownership. For example, a family of four with a combined income of $59,000 could see over $1,182 back in tax returns after rate reductions under the new system. Combined with the doubled standard deduction and enhanced Family and Child tax credits, the family’s tax bill could be only $400 at the end of the year. Likewise, if that same family had a household income of $300,000, it could see a tax cut of $6,080, which could reduce its current tax bill from $64,680 to $58,600 a year. This is not only a system that helps increase income for families across America. This is a jobs creation b… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-praises-presidents-action-on-north-korea | Inhofe Praises President's Action on North Korea | 2017-11-20 | 2017 | 2017-11 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | Inhofe Praises President's Action on North Korea Monday, November 20, 2017 U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), made the following statement after President Trump declared North Korea a state sponsor of terrorism: “By imposing the most substantial sanctions against the North Korean regime to date, the President has shown that his actions towards the regime speak far louder than the threats of Kim Jong Un—the United States is committed to stopping North Korea’s aggressive actions against America and our allies. “I’ve been clear—North Korea is currently the most imminent threat facing the United States. The past eight years of ‘strategic patience’ have done nothing but enable a rogue regime to advance their nuclear and ballistic missile programs. As the President considers all economic, diplomatic and military options against North Korea, I will continue to fight for increased missile defense to protect American families and our allies around the world.” Inhofe worked to include several provisions to support missile defense to the FY18 NDAA, which is currently awaiting the president’s signature. Some of the provisions include increasing funding to modernize the U.S. ground-based missile defense system and the procurement of 24 additional Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) systems. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-lankford-to-release-federal-government-waste-report | Senator Lankford to Release Federal Government Waste Report | 2017-11-20 | 2017 | 2017-11 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 11.20.17 Senator Lankford to Release Federal Government Waste Report OKLAHOMA CITY, OK – Senator James Lankford (R-OK) will release his annual federal government waste and solutions report during a press conference on Monday, November 27, 2017. This is the third volume of Lankford’s report entitled “Federal Fumbles: 100 ways the government dropped the ball.” The first report identified $105 billion in wasteful federal spending and about $800 billion in negative regulatory impact to the economy, and the second report listed $247 billion in wasteful spending and regulations. This year’s report will identify new examples of waste, inefficiency, and duplication in government, along with solutions to resolve each fumble. “Every American should have access to how their tax dollars are spent,” said Lankford. “I hope every member of Congress, the Administration, and staff will utilize Federal Fumbles as they consider budget requests, hold hearings, and discuss reform legislation. In the first 11 months of the new Administration, we’ve worked to roll back wasteful spending and a number of harmful and burdensome regulations from previous Federal Fumbles reports. There is a lot of work to still be done. Our $20 trillion national debt will continue to grow until we stop it with spending cuts, government reforms, and a growing economy. Federal Fumbles volume three is my to-do list for 2018.” WHAT: Senator Lankford Press Conference to Release Federal Fumbles: 100 ways the government dropped the ball WHEN: Monday, November 27, 11:00am ET (10:00am CT) WHERE: Senate Radio-Television Gallery Studio, S-325, United States Capitol, Washington, DC VIDEO: The press conference will be livestreamed on Lankford’s YouTube page HERE and Facebook page HERE Reporters who would like to cover the report release should contact DJ Jordan or Aly Beley via phone (202-224-5754) or DJ@Lankford.senate.gov or Aly_Beley@Lankford.senate.gov. ### Print Email … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/icymi-inhofe-recognizes-the-museum-of-the-bible | ICYMI: Inhofe Recognizes the Museum of the Bible | 2017-11-17 | 2017 | 2017-11 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | ICYMI: Inhofe Recognizes the Museum of the Bible Friday, November 17, 2017 U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), spoke on the Senate floor yesterday to recognize the opening of the Museum of the Bible in Washington, D.C. The non-sectarian museum is free to the public and opens today. Key Excerpts: “…This week, after years of planning and construction, we now will be dedicating tomorrow, officially opening, the Museum of the Bible will finally open. It was led by Steve Green of Hobby Lobby…. He’s the Chairman of the Board of Directors of this long-awaited museum will allow visitors from not just the country—but from all over the world to see what really it’s all about, and how this plays the pivotal role in our country’s history. “There is no better place than Washington, DC—our nation’s capital—to remind us of the scope of the Bible’s impact on our history and our narrative… “The Bible’s role in the founding of America is just one remarkable example of the how the Bible has profoundly shaped world history. It has influenced cultures in every corner of the globe and the Museum of the Bible, which is going to be opening tomorrow, pays tribute to its impact and intersection with other world religions. “Whether considering the Bible through a secular or faith-based lens, it is impossible to deny its impact on individuals, countries, and, indeed, all of world history. The Museum of the Bible is the first educational experience that I have encountered that truly appreciates the full magnitude of the Bible’s role throughout history. The six exhibits, curated by a panel of faith leaders that span religious and geographic divides, truly bring the Word of God to life in a way that positively educates, informs and encourages people of all faiths and beliefs to learn more about the Bible.” Read Sen. Inhofe’s full remarks as prepared for delivery below. Mr. President, this week, after three years of planning and construction, we now will be dedicating tomorrow, officially opening, t… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/icymi-inhofe-speaks-about-anwr-and-energy-independence | ICYMI: Inhofe Speaks About ANWR and Energy Independence | 2017-11-17 | 2017 | 2017-11 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | ICYMI Inhofe Speaks About ANWR and Energy Independence Friday, November 17, 2017 U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), a senior member of the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works, spoke on the Senate floor yesterday about legislation to open a small part the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR) for responsible energy development. Key Excerpts: “… Yesterday, the Senate Energy and Natural Resources committee met to consider legislation to open up a very small part of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge for responsible energy development. This bill was successfully passed by the Committee and I look forward to helping it continue to move through Congress. … “… Authorizing the sale of leases in Alaska will also increase revenue to the United States. It is estimated that energy production in Alaska can lead to over $1 trillion in revenue. Responsibly managed, that will have a positive impact on reducing our national debt. Most significantly, opening ANWR is allowing Alaskans to do what they want to do. … “… Energy independence is vital to our national security. How many of these countries apart of the old Soviet Union have wanted their allegiance to us, but are forced to buy their gas from Russia and Iran—and they don’t want to do it. Now, we are taking them off the hook. … “… President Trump has been clear—he intends to make the United States a net energy exporter, something we haven’t been since 1953. We’re going to do it. …” Read Sen. Inhofe’s full remarks as prepared for delivery below. Mr. President, I now turn to another topic of importance to American families—our energy independence. While many have talked about the importance of the budget reconciliation process to set us up to pass the historic, much needed tax cuts for our individuals and small businesses, the process also allows the Senate to use reconciliation for something equally as valuable—to allow energy exploration in Alaska. Yesterday, the Senate Energy and Natural Resources committee met to … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-leads-letter-in-support-of-iraqi-kurdistan | Inhofe Leads Letter in Support of Iraqi Kurdistan | 2017-11-17 | 2017 | 2017-11 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | Inhofe Leads Letter in Support of Iraqi Kurdistan "Strong support for our allies in both Erbil and Baghdad is essential if we are to arrest Iran's growing influence" Friday, November 17, 2017 U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, and Sens. John Cornyn (R-Texas) and Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) sent a letter to President Donald Trump this week in support of the Kurdish Regional Government and their role protecting religious liberty in the region. “With ISIS now being driven from Iraq, we are concerned that Iran’s influence is growing and has the potential to undermine the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) and overall stability of the region,” the senators write. The letter continues: “Tolerance is integral to Kurdish culture - indeed, rights of persecuted minorities are expressly recognized and protected under KRG laws. Iran’s growing influence, however, increasingly is threatening stability both within Iraq and on all sides of Iraq’s borders. We are deeply concerned by reports that American-made military equipment has been deployed by Iranian-backed militias against the Kurds. We cannot afford to lose the peaceful region of Iraqi Kurdistan to Iranian-backed groups that are actively aligned against the United States.” Read the full letter here. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-lankford-applauds-attorney-general-sessions-decision-to-end-doj-regulation-by-guidance | Senator Lankford Applauds Attorney General Sessions Decision to End DoJ Regulation By Guidance | 2017-11-17 | 2017 | 2017-11 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 11.17.17 Senator Lankford Applauds Attorney General Sessions’ Decision to End DoJ Regulation By Guidance WASHINGTON, DC – Senator James Lankford (R-OK) today applauded Attorney General Jeff Sessions’ decision to prohibit the Department of Justice from issuing regulatory guidance documents that have the effect of adopting a new law or regulatory requirements. As chairman of the Senate Subcommittee on Regulatory Affairs and Federal Management, Lankford has long decried this federal agency practice. “Regulatory guidance documents were originally meant to clarify existing law, not create new law. But unfortunately, it has been abused by agencies to force law-like directives on colleges, local municipalities, farmers, companies, and other regulated entities,” said Lankford. “I’m pleased that Attorney General Sessions is putting an end to this abuse at the Department of Justice. When agencies pursue regulatory changes through quick guidance instead of thorough regulations, the American people are left out of the process. This is a pervasive problem across all of government, as agencies sometimes legislate using guidance. Agency guidance should never be a substitute for regulation or law. I encourage the entire Trump administration to follow in Sessions’ footsteps on this.” The Administrative Procedure Act (APA) allows agencies to issue guidance documents to interpret issues in an existing regulation or law. While the vast majority of guidance is used appropriately to provide regulated entities with timely information and quick updates, guidance also leaves open the possibility that agencies improperly issue guidance documents instead of regulations, in order to take advantage of the APA’s exceptions and relaxed procedures. In 2015 and 2016, Lankford challenged the President Obama administration on this practice and held several hearings on this matter. Lankford repeatedly challenged the Office of Management and Budget and Departments of Education and Labor on their inappropriate use of regulatory guidan… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-lankford-cornyn-and-coons-introduce-resolution-to-recognize-the-museum-of-the-bible | Senators Lankford, Cornyn, and Coons Introduce Resolution to Recognize the Museum of the Bible | 2017-11-17 | 2017 | 2017-11 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 11.17.17 Senators Lankford, Cornyn, and Coons Introduce Resolution to Recognize the Museum of the Bible WASHINGTON, DC – Senators James Lankford (R-OK), John Cornyn (R-TX), and Chris Coons (D-DE) have introduced a bipartisan Senate resolution to recognize the grand opening of the Museum of the Bible in Washington, DC. The museum will officially open today and is free to the public. The museum holds items such as the Gutenberg Bible. Steven Green, Oklahoman, and president of Hobby Lobby serves as Chairman of the Board of the Museum of the Bible. “The museum takes you through six floors of exhibits that include artifacts, stories, art, history, and worldwide impacts of the Bible,” said Lankford. “This collection is a great addition to our nation’s Capitol. It is yet another reason for every American to visit Washington, DC to see some of the world’s most breathtaking treasures.” A PDF of the letter is available here, and the full text of the resolution is below: Recognizing the opening of the nonsectarian Museum of the Bible in Washington, D.C., the only museum of its size and scope in the world devoted exclusively to the Bible. Whereas the Bible has played a prominent role in the culture of the United States and has been a significant influence throughout the history of our nation; Whereas, in 1956, Congress passed a Joint Resolution adopting ‘‘In God We Trust’’ as the official motto of the United States; Whereas, in 1982, Congress passed the Joint Resolution entitled ‘‘Joint Resolution authorizing and requesting the President to proclaim 1983 as the ‘Year of the Bible’ ’’ (Public Law 97–280), finding that the Bible ‘‘has made a unique contribution in shaping the United States as a distinctive and blessed nation and people’’; Whereas, on November 17, 2017, the Museum of the Bible opened a 430,000-square foot nonprofit museum in Washington, D.C., 3 blocks from the Capitol, and will be free to all visitors; Whereas the Museum of the Bible is a nonsectarian institution that does not promote any f… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://mullin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=793 | Mullin Votes to Simplify Tax Code for Oklahoma Families & Small Businesses | 2017-11-16 | 2017 | 2017-11 | Republican | House | OK | Markwayne Mullin | M001190 | mullin.house.gov | legacy | Congressman Markwayne Mullin (OK-2) released the following statement after the House passed H.R. 1, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act: “Americans deserve to keep more of their paycheck in their own pocket, instead of sending it to Washington, D.C. to be spent hastily by federal bureaucrats,” said Mullin. “The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act puts over $2,200 back in the pockets of Oklahoma’s hardworking, middle-class families so they can decide for themselves where to spend more of their hard-earned dollars. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act also simplifies the process, so that filing taxes is as easy as filling out a form the size of a postcard.” “As a former small business owner, I understand firsthand how burdensome the current tax code is on Main Street,” said Mullin. “The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act delivers relief to mom-and-pop shops in our communities so that they can hire more individuals, grow their business, and invest more in our local economy.” H.R. 1, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, passed the U.S. House of Representative by a vote of 227 - 205. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act keeps the following deductions and tax credits: Adoption Tax Credit Earned Income Tax Credit Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit Expands the Child Tax Credit by establishing a Family Credit Deduction for charitable contributions Home Mortgage and Interest Deduction State and Local Property Taxes (Up to $10,000) 401K and IRA Options The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act repeals the following deductions and tax credits: Alternative Minimum Tax Death Tax Special Interest Deductions that increase and complicate tax rates Read H.R. 1, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, in its entirety at this link. See what the postcard to file your taxes looks like by clicking on this link. Learn what you need to know and get answers to your questions in a summary of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act at this link. Want to see how the tax bill affects you? Click here. Are you a small business owner and want to see how the tax bill aff… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cole-statement-passage-tax-cuts-and-jobs-act | Cole Statement on the Passage of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act | 2017-11-16 | 2017 | 2017-11 | Republican | House | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after the House passed H.R. 1, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act by a vote of 227-205, with Cole’s support. “After 31 years of a broken, complicated tax code, the American taxpayers and businesses will finally see much-needed relief," said Cole. "This is a new system that will incentivize the individual and promote economic growth. I was proud to put my support behind this bill.” “In Oklahoma alone, this new system will help create more than 11,000 jobs and raises the median household income by $2,241. And with incentives like an increased child tax credit and a doubled standard deduction, it will allow for individual prosperity and give American families more opportunities to prepare for life decisions like retirement or home ownership.” “I am very pleased that this bill will also bring American companies back to our shores. By reducing the corporate tax rate, American businesses will flourish within our borders and create thousands of new, well-paying jobs across the country.” “I applaud Speaker Ryan, House Leadership, Chairman Brady and the House Ways & Means Committee for crafting a comprehensive, working tax reform bill that will benefit all Americans and grow our economy, and I look forward to action in the Senate.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://lucas.house.gov/press-release/lucas-votes-lower-rates-and-simplify-tax-code | Lucas Votes to Lower Rates and Simplify Tax Code | 2017-11-16 | 2017 | 2017-11 | Republican | House | OK | Frank Lucas | L000491 | lucas.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. – Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-3) today voted to pass H.R. 1, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, legislation that amends the Internal Revenue Code to lower taxes rates and adjust various tax credits and deductions for businesses and individuals. Upon passage of the bill, Congressman Lucas issued the following statement: “Since World War II, the reform of our country’s tax code has only occurred twice – 1954 and 1986. Today, it is clear that we must take action to make American businesses and workers more competitive with the rest of the world, as well as to decrease the overwhelming tax burden on American families. This tax reform legislation doubles the standard deduction for individuals and joint filers to simplify filing and allow Americans to keep more of their hard-earned dollars. The bill also sets into motion the full repeal of the Estate Tax which will help protect family farms and other capital intensive businesses from onerous tax bills triggered by the death of a family member. “I am optimistic that simplifying the tax code, broadening the tax base, and cutting rates will energize business growth and job creation here at home. Commonsense tax reform is long overdue and I am proud to join my colleagues to pass this bold plan that will launch our country into a new chapter of prosperity.” H.R. 1 includes the following reforms to the tax code: · Decreases number of tax brackets from seven to four · Doubles the standard deduction to $12,000 for single filers and $24,000 for joint filers · Expands Child Tax Credit to $1,600 · Doubles Death Tax exemption and repeals it entirely after seven years · Small businesses will be taxed no higher than 25 percent · Extends cash accounting for businesses like family farm corporations · Allows full cost of new equipment to be written-off immediately According to the Tax Foundation, middle-income households in Oklahoma will see, on average, $2,241 more in after-tax… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://russell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-russell-statement-passage-tax-cuts-and-jobs-act | Rep. Russell Statement on Passage of Tax Cuts and Jobs Act | 2017-11-16 | 2017 | 2017-11 | Republican | House | OK | Steve Russell | R000604 | russell.house.gov | legacy | Washington, DC – Rep. Steve Russell (OK-5) today voted for the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (H.R. 1), the Republican bill for tax reform. In passing this pro-growth, pro-family legislation, House Republicans have taken an important step toward providing necessary tax relief for Americans for the first time since President Reagan’s historic tax reform 31 years ago. According to the nonpartisan Tax Foundation, this bill will cut taxes on typical households by $1,182, raise wages by upwards of $4,000, and create nearly one million full-time jobs. Our nation is ready for tax reform. Congress and the White House are pushing full steam ahead to make the tax code more simple and fair for all Americans. Included in H.R. 1 is a bill that Rep. Russell introduced last Congress and again in February of this year, the No Tax Subsidies for Stadiums Act (H.R. 811). Rep. Russell’s tax reform bill would prohibit the use of tax-exempt municipal bonds for the construction of stadiums, closing a decades old loophole in the tax code that has cost Americans billions of dollars. Municipal bonds are intended to provide capital for infrastructure such as roads or bridges, yet for more than 30 years stadium financiers have exploited a tax code loophole to build for-profit stadiums on the backs of American taxpayers. Rep. Russell commented on the passage of the Tax Cuts & Jobs Act, stating: “This legislation lives up to its name- cutting taxes for individuals, families, and businesses while delivering more jobs and higher wages for the American people. It simplifies our broken tax code, preserving the adoption tax credit for middle-income families and encouraging American businesses to bring offshore investments back home. This bill also eliminates wasteful spending by closing loopholes that have been exploited for years; my provision prohibiting the use of tax-exempt bonds for stadium funding is just one example.” said Rep. Russell. “The Tax Cuts & Jobs Act is exactly what our country needs to get back on track. By doing nothing, we will… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://russell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=336 | Rep. Russell Statement on Passage of Tax Cuts and Jobs Act | 2017-11-16 | 2017 | 2017-11 | Republican | House | OK | Steve Russell | R000604 | russell.house.gov | legacy | Rep. Steve Russell (OK-5) today voted for the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (H.R. 1), the Republican bill for tax reform. In passing this pro-growth, pro-family legislation, House Republicans have taken an important step toward providing necessary tax relief for Americans for the first time since President Reagan's historic tax reform 31 years ago. According to the nonpartisan Tax Foundation, this bill will cut taxes on typical households by $1,182, raise wages by upwards of $4,000, and create nearly one million full-time jobs. Our nation is ready for tax reform. Congress and the White House are pushing full steam ahead to make the tax code more simple and fair for all Americans. Included in H.R. 1 is a bill that Rep. Russell introduced last Congress and again in February of this year, the No Tax Subsidies for Stadiums Act (H.R. 811). Rep. Russell's tax reform bill would prohibit the use of tax-exempt municipal bonds for the construction of stadiums, closing a decades old loophole in the tax code that has cost Americans billions of dollars. Municipal bonds are intended to provide capital for infrastructure such as roads or bridges, yet for more than 30 years stadium financiers have exploited a tax code loophole to build for-profit stadiums on the backs of American taxpayers. Rep. Russell commented on the passage of the Tax Cuts & Jobs Act, stating: This legislation lives up to its name- cutting taxes for individuals, families, and businesses while delivering more jobs and higher wages for the American people. It simplifies our broken tax code, preserving the adoption tax credit for middle-income families and encouraging American businesses to bring offshore investments back home. This bill also eliminates wasteful spending by closing loopholes that have been exploited for years; my provision prohibiting the use of tax-exempt bonds for stadium funding is just one example. said Rep. Russell. The Tax Cuts & Jobs Act is exactly what our country needs to get back on track. By doing nothing, we will continue to see o… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-advocates-for-lethal-aid-to-ukraine | Inhofe Advocates for Lethal Aid to Ukraine | 2017-11-16 | 2017 | 2017-11 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | Inhofe Advocates for Lethal Aid to Ukraine Thursday, November 16, 2017 U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), today sent a letter to President Trump encouraging increased U.S. government support for Ukraine against Russian aggression, specifically lethal assistance. The letter reads: “I have visited Ukraine twice this year to support the mission of Oklahoma’s National Guard training Ukrainian forces. Both trips have brought into stark relief the gravity of the situation there. The military land-grab Russia has launched in Ukraine is unprecedented in modern European history.” Inhofe continues: “Since then, Russia’s continued aggression and repeated refusal to respect Ukraine’s territorial integrity warrants a strong response from those of us who respect the rules-based international order. Our response should include lethal military hardware as part of a broader effort to help Ukrainians defend themselves and deter future aggression.” Read the full letter here. Earlier today, Senator Inhofe questioned the Honorable John C. Rood and confirmed his support for aiding Ukraine during his nomination hearing today to be Under Secretary of Defense for Policy. Click here to watch. Inhofe: “…We had a policy at that time under the previous administration that we were not going to send [Ukraine] defensive weapons…I would just ask as a final question—what do you think Putin is thinking? …Are we moving in the right direction on that? Rood: “… I personally support the position of defensive military equipment to Ukraine. I think it is important that we stand with them as they face Russian aggression…I think it is important to send a message to President Putin and others that we are prepared to support the Ukrainians in that regard…” Read more about Sen. Inhofe’s recent visit to Ukraine here. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-praises-senate-passage-of-ndaa | Inhofe Praises Senate Passage of NDAA | 2017-11-16 | 2017 | 2017-11 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | Inhofe Praises Senate Passage of NDAA Thursday, November 16, 2017 U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), today voted in favor of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for fiscal year 2018 (FY 18). The legislation passed by voice, sending the bill to the president for his signature. The NDAA passed the House by a vote of 356 to 70 on Tuesday, Nov. 14. “I successfully fought to ensure that this year’s NDAA reflects that we are in the most threatened position our country has ever seen. Congress is sending a bill to the President that takes an important step forward in protecting American families by increasing missile defense to counter North Korea missile threats, supports the Ukrainian military’s efforts to curb Russian aggression in Eastern Europe, fully resourcing the fight against ISIS and Islamic extremism and increasing our end strength to address threats around the globe. "As Chairman of the Readiness Subcommittee, I also worked to ensure this year’s NDAA begins to correct the severe readiness shortfalls that have starved our military by prioritizing acquisition reform, maintenance and modernization. Most importantly, this bill also includes many provisions that support the military presence throughout Oklahoma, including a pay increase for our troops, a prohibition on a Base Realignment and Closure round, authorizing funding for the Altus AFB Fire Station, AWACS, KC-46As and much needed military construction.” Other Oklahoma provisions that Inhofe worked to include in the FY18 NDAA are: Civilian hiring authority to support the workforce at Tinker Air Force Base and the McAlester Army Ammunition Plant Maintaining organic depot capacity to support the depots across Oklahoma Provisions for reviewing national security implications for future energy projects that may encroach on military installations Upgrading the fleet of AWACS – based entirely at Tinker Air Force Base Fully funding the B-21 Long R… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/fcc-approves-senator-lankford-proposal-to-reform-tribal-lifeline-program | FCC Approves Senator Lankford Proposal to Reform Tribal Lifeline Program | 2017-11-16 | 2017 | 2017-11 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 11.16.17 FCC Approves Senator Lankford Proposal to Reform Tribal Lifeline Program Reform of Lifeline Program Eligibility Will Reduce Fraud and Waste WASHINGTON, DC – The Federal Communication Commission (FCC) today took action to reform its Lifeline low-income subsidy program, a proposal that Senator James Lankford (R-OK) has urged for years and included in his Federal Fumbles government waste report. The Lifeline program helps low-income Americans, including Native Americans, obtain telephone, wireless, and broadband services. Today, the FCC voted 3 to 2 to redefine who is eligible for the additional tribal subsidy through the Lifeline program. “I applaud FCC Chairman Ajit Pai for pursuing real reform of the Tribal Lifeline subsidized cell phone program,” said Lankford. “This action will reduce fraud and waste in the program and make it more efficient for those who truly need it. The enhanced tribal support was originally intended to benefit American Indians living in underserved areas because they faced the greatest need. Unfortunately, the program became like many other federal programs, inefficient and fraudulently abused by those who do not qualify. There are American Indians in Oklahoma and across the nation who rely on this program to have access to telecommunications, however, it is right for the FCC to eliminate access for those who seek to defraud the federal government or abuse the program.” For years, the Lifeline program gave subscribers a $9.25 monthly discount on phone service and an extra $25 monthly discount for subscribers on tribal lands. Today’s FCC action limits Tribal Lifeline support to facilities-based providers, effectively ending the free-standing pop-up tents that provide free cell phones to those who do not actually qualify. Today’s FCC action also reduces program waste by refining the tribal eligibility to rural areas where the additional $25-a-month subsidy is needed to make s… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-lankford-co-sponsors-legislation-to-strengthen-background-check-system-for-firearms-purchases | Senator Lankford Co-sponsors Legislation to Strengthen Background Check System for Firearms Purchases | 2017-11-16 | 2017 | 2017-11 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 11.16.17 Senator Lankford Co-sponsors Legislation to Strengthen Background Check System for Firearms Purchases WASHINGTON Senator James Lankford (R-OK) today joined Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), Chris Murphy (D-CT), and others to introduce the bipartisanFix NICS Act, a bill to ensure federal and state authorities comply with existing law and accurately report relevant criminal history records to the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS).The bill penalizes federal agencies who fail to properly report relevant records and incentivizes states to improve their overall reporting. The bill also directs more federal funding to the accurate reporting of domestic violence records. Text of theFix NICS Actis downloadablehere. In some instances, we are not getting the appropriate information into our background check system, said Lankford. In order to reduce gun violence and protect lives, we should have an efficient background check system to ensure that firearms don't into the hands of people who shouldn't have them. For years agencies and states haven't complied with the law, failing to upload these critical records without consequence,said Cornyn.Just one record that's not properly reported can lead to tragedy, as the country saw last week in Sutherland Springs, Texas. This bill aims to help fix what's become a nationwide, systemic problem so we can better prevent criminals and domestic abusers from obtaining firearms. This deal will strengthen the background check system and save lives. Our bill marks an important milestone that shows real compromise can be made on the issue of guns. I'm grateful that Senator Cornyn was such a strong partner and straightforward negotiator,said Murphy.It's no secret that I believe much more needs to be done. But this bill will make sure that thousands of dangerous people are prevented from buying guns. It represents the strongest update to the background checks system in a decade, and provides the foundation for more compromise in the future. Details of … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/icymi-inhofe-participates-in-epw-hearing- | ICYMI: Inhofe Participates in EPW Hearing | 2017-11-15 | 2017 | 2017-11 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | ICYMI: Inhofe Participates in EPW Hearing Wednesday, November 15, 2017 U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), senior member of the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works, participated today in a committee hearing entitled “Promoting American Leadership in Reducing Air Emissions through Innovation.” Key Excerpts Inhofe on the Paris Climate Agreement: “They always end up talking here about the great Paris Agreement … If there’s ever a joke, that’s it. You know, they’ve been trying for 21 years to get 192 countries, 196 countries, to agree on something that they’ll all agree on and when I talked to those individuals—and I’ve been at some of these meetings—they are there lining up to see who can get the most money out of this system. Now, this great Paris Agreement … what did we commit to in our country? “President Obama said ‘we will reduce C02 emissions by 27 percent by 2025’. Now, we immediately—I was chairman of the committee at that time—we called his own EPA and said ‘we want you to come in a testify and tell us how you’re going to cut these emissions’… They refused to do it. I’ve never seen a time when someone in the jurisdiction of a committee refused to testify and the reason was that they couldn’t do it … They’ve tried for 21 years and this is the best they could come up with. …” Inhofe on the economy: “Good things are happening right now. I mean, look at the economy. … “ … I have personal experience in this because I was a builder and developer for 20, 25 years… I ended up… making the sacrifices, building, expanding the tax base, making money, losing money … The chief opponent I had, or opposition I had all that time, was the federal government. ... “ … One of the great things this President has done is all of the CRAs, Congressional Review Acts, and I’m proud that mine was the first one to have a signing ceremony. …” He added about the CRAs and executive orders: “… some 70 rules and regulations that have caused our economy to start turning around. …” H… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-praises-senate-confirmation-of-mark-esper | Inhofe Praises Senate Confirmation of Mark Esper | 2017-11-15 | 2017 | 2017-11 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | Inhofe Praises Senate Confirmation of Mark Esper Wednesday, November 15, 2017 U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe, senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) praised the Senate confirmation of Dr. Mark Esper as Secretary of the Army. “The Army, like each branch of our military, is facing an unprecedented readiness crisis that we haven’t seen since the days of the hollow force. To modernize and rebuild our Army, we need to ensure that we have leaders like my friend, Mark Esper, who will recognize and address the readiness challenges and responsibly advance acquisition reform to ensure our Army has the best equipment available. I applaud his confirmation as Secretary of the Army, and look forward to working with him and other Secretaries of service branches to strengthen and rebuild our military.” Last week, Sen. Inhofe questioned Esper on Army readiness during his nomination hearing. Read more here. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-statement-on-zimbabwe | Inhofe Statement on Zimbabwe | 2017-11-15 | 2017 | 2017-11 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | Inhofe Statement on Zimbabwe Wednesday, November 15, 2017 U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) made the following statement on the situation in Zimbabwe: “I’m encouraged by the reports of a peaceful action by the Zimbabwean military to reject the brutal and restrictive dictatorship of President Mugabe, who singlehandedly cast Zimbabwe, once the bread basket of Africa, into chaos and disarray. While Zimbabwe still has a long road to true freedom and democracy, I am cautiously optimistic that the military’s apparent efforts to restore differing viewpoints to the government will be an important step in that journey. The United States should work with our partners in the region to support constructive efforts to bring much needed change to Zimbabwe’s political system that will allow the nation to once again see the stability and economic prosperity it was long known for and now so desperately needs.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-lankford-joins-colleagues-on-senate-floor-to-tout-benefits-of-tax-reform- | Senator Lankford Joins Colleagues on Senate Floor to Tout Benefits of Tax Reform | 2017-11-15 | 2017 | 2017-11 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 11.15.17 Senator Lankford Joins Colleagues on Senate Floor to Tout Benefits of Tax Reform Lankford: “…our tax code is full of loopholes, full of confusion, it's complicated.” CLICK HERE to view the video WASHINGTON, DC – Senator James Lankford (R-OK) today spoke on the Senate floor, along with his Senate colleagues, in support of efforts to reform the US federal tax code for the first time in 30-years. Lankford continues to advocate for tax reform that spurs economic growth, simplifies the overcomplicated tax code, and reduces the national debt. Lankford also joined MSNBC Morning Joe today to discuss the Senate’s tax reform proposal and the repeal of the Obamacare tax mandate. Transcript: Mr. President, our economy is stuck. We've had between 1.4 percent and 1.9 percent growth over the last ten years. Compare that to the ten-year cycles before that over and over again all the way back to the Great Depression. Every year in a ten-year block, every group of that was three percent or more growth. We've had half the growth in our economy in the last ten years then we’ve had in any ten-year time period going all the way back to the Great Depression. We’ve got to be able to deal with that. I hear people over and over again say the regulations are choking out our business. It's driving up the cost of products for consumers. But, our tax code is full of loopholes, full of confusion, it's complicated. Deductions, when I go through to fill out my individual taxes, seem like there are deductions for everybody else but me. And people want to get that fixed. And quite frankly, no one likes paying taxes and everyone wants to make sure whatever taxes they pay are spent efficiently and are as low as possible. I can't tell them that, right now, because their spending is not on track and it’s not efficient. And, I can also not tell them it’s as low as possible. We need to fix that. The tax reform that we have in discus… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-lankford-urges-trump-administration-to-prioritize-job-creation-over-trade-deficits-in-nafta-renegotiations | Senator Lankford Urges Trump Administration to Prioritize Job Creation Over Trade Deficits in NAFTA Renegotiations | 2017-11-15 | 2017 | 2017-11 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 11.15.17 Senator Lankford Urges Trump Administration to Prioritize Job Creation Over Trade Deficits in NAFTA Renegotiations WASHINGTON, DC – Senator James Lankford (R-OK) today led a letter to the Trump Administration with respect to US trade policy, including the ongoing renegotiation of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). Lankford was joined on the letter by Senate Budget Committee Chairman Mike Enzi (R-WY) and Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee Chairman John Thune (R-SD). Specifically, the Senators urged the US Trade Representative, Robert Lighthizer, to refrain from the pursuit of a “sunset” clause in new trade agreements, and also explained the lack of correlation between the US trade deficit and national employment figures. Lankford also wrote about this topic in an August op-ed in the Washington Post entitled, The US trade deficit is a good thing. Of note, the Senators wrote, “We would like to highlight that, over the past decade, the year in which the US unemployment rate was at its highest is the same year that the US trade deficit was at its lowest. At the very least, there is a negligible correlation between the number of jobs in the U.S. economy and our nation’s trade deficit. At most, they appear at times to be inversely related. Thus, if the desired result of current trade agreement renegotiations is job growth, concern over a negative trade balance should not be part of those discussions.” In reaction to the letter, Oklahoma Cattlemen’s Association Executive Vice President Michael Kelsey said, “The Oklahoma Cattlemen’s Association appreciates Senator Lankford’s strong commitment to free and fair trade. His highlighting reduction of excessive government red tape is spot on and should be the top priority of our trade agreements.” Oklahoma Farm Bureau President Rodd Moesel said, “Oklahoma farmers and ranchers depend on international agricultural markets to remain in business, as 95 percent of the world’s consumers live outside of the United States. The N… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://mullin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=791 | Mullin Votes to Give Troops Biggest Pay Raise in 8 Years | 2017-11-14 | 2017 | 2017-11 | Republican | House | OK | Markwayne Mullin | M001190 | mullin.house.gov | legacy | Congressman Markwayne Mullin (OK-2) voted today in favor of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2018, which authorizes a 2.4% pay raise for service members. “Providing ample support for our men and women in uniform is a fundamental role of Congress,” said Mullin. “I’m proud to support our troops both at home and abroad by supplying our military with the tools and resources they need to be successful. For eight years under the Obama Administration, our military was forced to do more with less while facing increasingly complex and dangerous assignments in the field. Today, we set a higher standard for our military and its preparedness. The FY18 NDAA rebuilds our military’s technology and strength so that when our service members go into harm’s way, they are well-equipped to handle anything they encounter.” “In addition, this legislation arms our troops with the biggest pay raise in eight years,” said Mullin. “The men and women who serve our country deserve our endless gratitude for their sacrifice. Their unwavering commitment to our country warrants a raise.” The NDAA’s 2.4% pay raise for our men and women in uniform is the biggest pay raise for our troops in eight years. Additionally, the legislation increases the overall topline funding, adds additional troops to our Armed Forces, and invests in new technology to help the United States confront conflicts around the globe. The bill also includes language that extends Congressman Mullin’s DOD Workforce Flexibility Act through Fiscal Year 2021. The DOD Workforce Flexibility Act gives flexibility in the hiring process for installations with a civilian workforce, like the McAlester Army Ammunition Plant. In July, the House passed its version of the FY18 NDAA by a vote of 344 – 81. The Conference Report to Accompany H.R. 2810, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2018, passed the U.S. House of Representatives with bipartisan support by a vote of 356 – 70. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cole-statement-passage-conference-report-ndaa-fiscal-year-2018 | Cole Statement on Passage of the Conference Report to NDAA for Fiscal Year 2018 | 2017-11-14 | 2017 | 2017-11 | Republican | House | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04), a member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, released the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Conference Report for H.R. 2810, the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2018. The bill authorizes $626.4 billion in base funding and includes $26.4 billion more than the President’s initial budget request for our nation’s military personnel, readiness, capability and operations. Furthermore, the bill authorizes an additional $65.7 billion in the Overseas Contingency Operations fund (OCO). When factoring in $7.5 billion for mandatory defense spending, a total of $699.6 billion is authorized to be appropriated. Each year, the passage of NDAA ensures that the military is trained and equipped to defend the United States, which includes maintenance and improvement of defense resources. The legislation passed today invests in those resources for confronting growing threats abroad, increases troop levels and rebuilds parts of the Armed Forces that have faced eight years of constrained budgets and a high-operational temp. The NDAA provides for a 2.4 percent pay raise for service members. It also improves the health and retirement benefits for military personnel, retirees and their families and prohibits any reduction of inpatient care for military Medical Treatment facilities locations outside the U.S. This is the third year of foundational acquisition reform passed by the House, which is intended to field technology and improve our military’s warfighting capabilities. Of particular importance are provisions which will alter how sustainment work is outsourced to commercial contractors. “I support the unique and vital role in the maintenance, repair and overhaul of military equipment,” said Cole. “Military depots are the backbone of the organic industrial base and are our nation’s insurance policy against the tides of economic uncertainty, changes in the defense industry, and wartime demands. This is… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://russell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/fy18-ndaa-passes-house-11-russell-amendments | FY18 NDAA Passes House With 11 Russell Amendments | 2017-11-14 | 2017 | 2017-11 | Republican | House | OK | Steve Russell | R000604 | russell.house.gov | legacy | Washington, DC – Today, Rep. Steve Russell (OK-5) was proud to vote for the Fiscal Year 2018 National Defense Authorization Act (H.R. 2810) as it passed the House by a margin of 356 to 70. The FY18 NDAA authorizes a $26 billion increase above the Trump Administration’s requests to ensure that contingencies and operational repairs and requirements are met. Rep. Russell proposed 11 amendments to the FY18 NDAA earlier this year, all of which were adopted. These amendments will impact a variety of important issues in our military. They will protect our military’s readiness and training areas, facilitate military housing for our servicemen and women, reform how the military acquires equipment, and reform security clearance procedure for certain contractors. Rep. Russell commented on the passage of the FY18 NDAA, stating: “This bill begins to reform, repair, and rebuild our military, reaffirming national security policy in a dangerous and complicated world. It provides a well-deserved pay raise for our troops and continues to push for our men and women in uniform to be fully trained, equipped, and supported. Most importantly, this legislation will help reverse the dangerous readiness crisis that threatens the safety of our soldiers.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/icymi-inhofe-questions-department-of-defense-nominees2 | ICYMI: Inhofe Questions Department of Defense Nominees | 2017-11-14 | 2017 | 2017-11 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | ICYMI: Inhofe Questions Department of Defense Nominees Tuesday, November 14, 2017 U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), participated in a nomination hearing to consider three Department of Defense nominees this morning. The three nominees included Mr. Anthony M. Kurta to be Principal Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel And Readiness, Mr. James E. McPherson to be General Counsel of the Department of the Army and Mr. Gregory E. Maggs to be a Judge of the United States Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces. Click to watch Sen. Inhofe’s remarks. Key Excerpts Inhofe: “…I’m really concerned about readiness. I chair that committee…We are now experiencing the same hollow force problems that we did in the 70s. What is your assessment right now in terms of the BCA cuts and what we’re faced with today?” Kurta replied: “Well, Senator, absolutely. We have to lift sequestration as currently structured. It is having a calamitous effect on our readiness, as you note. Not only do I think—as the service chiefs and those in uniform have come over here and said—that we have trouble meeting our wartime requirements, I think we are asking a lot of our current Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, Coast Guardsmen… just meeting the day-to-day requirements...” Inhofe: “I was encouraged to see you that you’ve had a lot of experience in Africa during your career in the Navy…would you, in your experience—particularly since you were in Djibouti also—address the personnel, the resource problem, in AFRICOM?” Kurta replied: “Well, Senator, as you note, it’s a large continent, a large expanse and the mission for the United States is only growing. If confirmed, I do pledge to work with the P&R to look at those personnel requirements and make sure we are meeting them.” Sen. Inhofe also questioned Mr. James E. McPherson about the importance of civilian personnel, like those at Tinker Air Force Base and McAlester Army Ammunition Pl… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/icymi-inhofe-questions-witnesses-on-epw-bills | ICYMI: Inhofe Questions Witnesses on EPW Bills | 2017-11-14 | 2017 | 2017-11 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | ICYMI: Inhofe Questions Witnesses on EPW Bills Tuesday, November 14, 2017 U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), senior member of the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works questioned witnesses today in a subcommittee hearing covering four EPW bills that emphasize deregulation. Specific bills considered were S. 203, the Recognizing the Protection of Motorsports (RPM) Act of 2017 and S. 839, the Blocking Regulatory Interference from Closing Kilns Act of 2017, which are co-sponsored by Sen. Inhofe. Other bills considered were S. 1934, the Alaska Remote Generator Reliability and Protection Act and S. 1857, a bill to establish a compliance deadline of May 15, 2023, for Step 2 emissions standards for new residential wood heaters, new residential hydronic heaters, and forced-air furnaces. Click to watch Sen. Inhofe’s remarks. Key Excerpts Inhofe: “Oklahoma... We’re really a NASCAR state. Now, Love’s Travel Stops is the largest family-owned truck stop in America… They are in Oklahoma…They are the primary sponsor of the NASCAR number 34 car that is driven by Landon Cassill. We know the language the EPA has considered… it’s made those involved in the racing industry nervous. Opponents of the RPM bill and the Obama EPA claim they aren’t going to go after individuals or NASCAR and that there is nothing to worry about…but, the EPA’s language makes it possible to do so, don’t you think? Mr. Kersting replied: “The current EPA interpretation of the law renders any conversion activity illegal.” Kersting also stated: “…A point was raised about this matter of there being a loophole or purpose or that the matter of intent, somehow in this bill, would create a new enforcement standard. I want to make very clear that the language of the RPM Act is actually drawn, it reflects language that is in this section of the Clean Air Act for other exemptions. The word purpose is in the law currently and, very importantly, the word intent is in the prohibition language currently…There is no loop… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-lankford-introduces-universal-charitable-giving-bill | Senator Lankford Introduces Universal Charitable Giving Bill | 2017-11-14 | 2017 | 2017-11 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 11.14.17 Senator Lankford Introduces Universal Charitable Giving Bill WASHINGTON, DC –Senator James Lankford (R-OK) today introduced the Universal Charitable Giving Act, which creates a universal charitable deduction in addition to the standard deduction for individuals and married couples that do not itemize. Currently, only taxpayers that itemize their deductions are able to withhold charitable donations. The Universal Charitable Giving Act incentivizes charitable giving for low-income to middle-income taxpayers. This will encourage the continued growth in giving through charitable donations from a larger base of taxpayers, including lower-income and middle-income earners. “As Congress continues to discuss plans to provide tax relief to millions of hardworking American families, we should also take the opportunity to make it easier for taxpayers to deduct donations from their taxes for donations they gave throughout the year,” said Lankford. “The government should not be the ultimate solution to the social problems we face as a nation. Individual communities, families, citizens, and charitable and faith-based organizations in our society should be supported to meet the needs of those who need a helping hand. This bill will allow Americans to give to the thousands of charitable and faith-based organizations across the country that assist in times of need. All Americans should be offered the same incentive and tax benefit to give for what they believe in, not just the wealthy. I encourage my colleagues in the Senate to seriously consider this proposal as part of the tax debate.” Congressman Mark Walker (NC-06) introduced the House companion bill on October 5, 2017. "With tax reform, we not only have the opportunity to simplify our tax code and bring needed relief to low and middle income families, but we also have the chance to encourage support for the charities doing amazing work in our communities,” said Walker. “This legislation would expand incentives for charitable giving to people at eve… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/fundamental-commitment-our-veterans | A Fundamental Commitment to Our Veterans | 2017-11-13 | 2017 | 2017-11 | Republican | House | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | For nearly a century, our nation has dedicated the eleventh day of the eleventh month as the day to honor and appreciate our veterans. What began as “Armistice Day,” in 1919 to commemorate the soldiers that fought in World War I, has evolved to reflect the multiple battles and wars over the course of American history. But we should give gratitude to our veterans every day. As a nation, we are fortunate to have the world’s strongest and most capable military forces. It is imperative that we remain committed to caring for our men and women in uniform years after their service. However, it is no secret that in recent years, many veterans have experienced hardships and challenges when trying to receive the benefits they have earned through their service and sacrifice. Fixing the issues that veterans face begins with Congress. It is a fundamental responsibility for Congress to address the problems that plague the Veterans Administration and to take swift legislative action. From keeping our Veterans Affairs hospitals accountable, to protecting whistleblowers, as well as ensuring the education and health benefits are afforded to those who need it, the House has passed over fifty pieces of legislation directed towards veterans this year alone. Some have become law. Others await action in the Senate. In this year’s Veterans’ Affairs Appropriations measure, the House Appropriations Committee worked to ensure that full funding was allotted to the Department of Veteran’s Affairs (VA). We were able to fulfill that promise by funding the VA at the President’s full request of $73.8 billion, which is a $5 billion increase from the previous fiscal year. That money will support medical care for seven million VA patients. It funds services like mental health care, suicide prevention, traumatic brain injury treatment, homeless veteran programs and more. Certainly, supporting our veterans is a bipartisan, bicameral effort, which has been key to passing such comprehensive and successful legislation. Congress is fortunate to hav… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z |
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