press: releases: 1,293 rows where state = "PA" and year = 2013 sorted by date descending

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1,293 rows where state = "PA" and year = 2013 sorted by date descending

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url	title	date ▲	year	month	party	chamber	state	member_name	bioguide_id	domain	date_source	text	has_text	collected_at	updated_at
http://kelly.house.gov/press-release/rep-kelly-releases-year-end-report-constituents	Rep. Kelly Releases Year-End Report for Constituents	2013-12-31	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	PA	Mike Kelly	K000376	kelly.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON — Representative Mike Kelly (PA-03) released the following letter today, to be e-mailed to his constituents throughout Pennsylvania’s Third Congressional District, to serve as a year-end overview of his office’s legislative achievements and constituent relations throughout 2013. Dear Constituent: Over the past twelve months, I have had the enormous privilege of continuing to represent you in our nation’s capital during the first session of the 113th Congress. As with my first term in office, all of my work in the House of Representatives is guided by your values, your voices, and your priorities. Your goals are my goals, and every day I work hard to accomplish them. The most important of these, of course, is creating an environment that strengthens our economy and generates more jobs with family-sustainable wages for our region and our country. I’ve proudly supported every measure to secure this outcome, and opposed any obstacle to reaching it. You can learn more about every jobs bill passed in the House and follow their status here. With every new challenge that 2013 brought us – and there were many – there also came many opportunities. My staff and I worked diligently to meet all of them head-on. Fighting the IRS, Restoring Trust & Accountability in Washington When the news broke that the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) was targeting and harassing Americans based on their political leanings, I joined the nation in outrage. As member of the House Ways and Means Committee (and member of the Subcommittee on Oversight), I made it my personal responsibility to get answers about what went wrong and hold those responsible fully accountable for abusing the American people’s trust in such an unthinkable manner. Watch my remarks at two memorable committee hearings here and here. As a result of this scandal, during the summer I re-introduced the Government Employee Accountability Act. The legislation would give all federal agencies the power to effectively deal with delinquent Senior Executive Service employ…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kelly.house.gov/press-release/rep-kelly-applauds-enactment-kelly-amendment-ban-funding-un-arms-trade-treaty	Rep. Kelly Applauds Enactment of Kelly Amendment to Ban Funding for UN Arms Trade Treaty	2013-12-27	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	PA	Mike Kelly	K000376	kelly.house.gov	legacy	Amendment included in final NDAA bill signed by president WASHINGTON — Representative Mike Kelly (R-PA) issued the following statement today commending the signing of the final version of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2014 which included his amendment to ban funding for the United Nations Arms Trade Treaty (ATT). The Kelly amendment requires a one year ban on the use of funds by the Department of Defense to implement the ATT unless the treaty receives the advice and consent of the Senate and is the subject of implementing legislation, as required, by the Congress. The NDAA agreement was passed by the House on December 12, 2013, by 350-69; passed by the Senate on December, 19, 2013, by 85-14; and signed by President Obama on December 26, 2013. “As I and many others have long stated, the ATT is a clear threat to our national sovereignty and the Constitutional rights of all Americans and should never have been signed. I am therefore glad to say that a major victory has been achieved in the fight to make sure this dangerous treaty never affects the United States in any capacity. Earlier this month, the House and Senate acted in a bipartisan manner to affirm my amendment’s resistance to the treaty by including it in the NDAA’s final passage. Now that the NDAA has been signed by President Obama, the White House has joined Congress in taking a belated stand for American strength and sovereignty by making this crucial amendment the law of the land.” NOTE: Rep. Kelly is a national leader of the movement to stop the United Nations Arms Trade Treaty (ATT). On March 15, 2013, he introduced H. Con. Res. 23, a bipartisan concurrent resolution expressing opposition to the treaty on behalf of members of Congress. The resolution currently has 149 co-sponsors in the House and 36 supporters in the Senate. On May 30, 2013, Rep. Kelly submitted a bipartisan letter with 130 co-signers from Congress to both President Obama and Secretary Kerry urging them to reject the treaty. He sent a similar bipartisan…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://thompson.house.gov/press-release/thompson-military-transition-telemedicine-amendment-signed-law	Thompson Military Transition Telemedicine Amendment Signed into Law	2013-12-27	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	PA	Glenn Thompson	T000467	thompson.house.gov	legacy	BELLEFONTE, Pa. – President Obama Thursday signed into law the 2014 National Defense Authorization Act. The bipartisan measure, which recently passed the House by a vote of 350 to 69 and the Senate by a vote of 84 to 15, authorizes funding and sets policy for the U.S. Department of Defense. Thompson, who voted to support the bill, successfully included an amendment that will expand health care coverage through telemedicine for service members transitioning to civilian life. “I am very pleased that members of the House and Senate were able to find common ground and pass this important bill that offers critical support to the military, our service members and their families,” stated Rep. Thompson. Under the previous policy, service members and their families could utilize 180 days of health care coverage during the transition from military to civilian life through what is known as the Transitional Assistance Management Program (TAMP). Thompson’s amendment is designed to protect individuals coping with Post-Traumatic Stress, which may not present symptoms in some cases until 8-10 months after leaving the military (see: here and here). The amendment extends TAMP coverage by an additional 180 days for all services rendered through telemedicine. “For those who are burdened by physical and psychological injuries as a result of their service in uniform, we must take every action to help them rebuild,” Thompson added. “This bill takes meaningful steps to improve the support we offer these brave men and women as they transition to civilian life, especially those coping with behavioral health injuries, while also making it easier to access care.” The amendment builds on Thompson’s 2011 STEP Act, now Public Law 112-81, Section 713, which expanded service member health care services and the use of telemedicine at the Department of Defense. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://dent.house.gov/index.cfm?p=PressReleases&ContentRecord_id=A5C4F809-604D-4C84-AF6E-F7890D13C378	Dent Works to Protect Pennsylvania Children from the Presidents Health Care Law	2013-12-26	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	PA	Charlie Dent	D000604	dent.house.gov	legacy	Congressman Charlie Dent (PA-15th) spearheaded an effort to protect and preserve Pennsylvania’s Children’s Health Insurance Program (PA CHIP) from the effect of President Obama’s Health Care Law. Rep. Dent organized a letter to Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius asking her to accede to Governor Corbett’s request that the Department work with him to help preserve the program. “The practical impact of the Health Care law has been to compel thousands of families with income levels between 100% and 133% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) to lose their PA CHIP coverage and be forced into a comparatively substandard Medicaid program,” Rep. Dent stated. “CHIP in Pennsylvania is a clear success story,” said the Congressman. “It is lauded as a national model by other states and consistently receives extremely high marks in customer satisfaction surveys,” Dent noted. “Forcing people out of this program and into the comparatively substandard Medicaid program is yet another harmful impact of the President’s Health Care law.” Rep. Dent was joined by ten fellow Pennsylvania Republicans on the letter. Some of them, including Rep. Dent, voted to establish the PA CHIP law in 1992. Rep. Dent also voted to strengthen and enhance the State Children’s Health Insurance Program (SCHIP) at the federal level. “President Obama heard the outcry of millions of Americans who lost their coverage as a result of the health care law and was forced to act and grant them the ability to maintain existing coverage. I, and my fellow Representatives, want the same opportunity for the thousands of Pennsylvania families that have received superior care through PA CHIP,” Dent concluded. Currently, PA CHIP covers over 188,000 children. Contact: Shawn Millan (610) 770-3490 ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140328084221/http://brady.house.gov/creativity-2013	Creativity 2013	2013-12-26	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	PA	Robert Brady	B001227	web.archive.org	legacy	Creativity 2013 Dec 26, 2013 [...] April U.S. Rep. Robert Brady, who maintains an office at 1907-1909 S. Broad St., was on hand at Horace Furness High School, 1900 S. Third St., to dole out Congressional Award medals to area students for achievements in service. The Pennsport institution fostered many of the day’s honorees and all of them participate in the Migrant Education Program that operates out of United Communities Southeast Philadelphia, 2029 S. Eighth St. The medals are given out based on a student’s accumulated hours of service and horizon-broadening adventures: bronze medal winners are responsible for collecting 200 hours of service in three areas (voluntary community service, tending to personal development and physical fitness, and executing an expedition or exploratory adventure), with silver medal recipients doubling those totals, and gold medal winners tripling them. The Congressional Medal Act of 1979 has been celebrating 14- to 23-year-olds for decades, and over the last 34 years the Congressional Award Foundation has honored more than 50,000 youths. [...] December 26, 2013, Bill Chenevert, South Philly Review	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/after-request-from-casey-government-watchdog-agrees-to-investigate-rollout-of-healthcaregov	After Request from Casey, Government Watchdog Agrees to Investigate Rollout of Healthcare.gov	2013-12-23	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	PA	Bob Casey	C001070	www.casey.senate.gov	legacy	Washington, DC- Today, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) announced that the Government Accountability Office (GAO) has agreed to his request to investigate the problems that occurred with the roll of healthcare.gov. Senator Casey, along with a bipartisan group of senators, urged the GAO to review the website’s troubled launch and make recommendations about steps that can be taken in the future to ensure a problem like this does not reoccur. Casey, a member of the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions, has questioned top Administration officials on the website during oversight hearings. "I’m pleased that the GAO has agreed to analyze the issues that occurred in launching healthcare.gov,” Senator Casey said. “I called for this report because Pennsylvanians deserve answers. It’s imperative that we have an understanding of the problems with the website launch, as well as the steps the Administration can take moving forward. It’s important that Pennsylvanians can access the benefits of this law.” The full text of Casey’s original letter can be seen below: Gene L. Dodaro Comptroller General Government Accountability Office Daniel R. Levinson Inspector General U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Dear Comptroller General Dodaro and Inspector General Levinson: On October 1, millions of Americans eagerly awaited the launch of healthcare.gov, a new marketplace where individuals and small businesses could easily compare quality health plans in their area and access tax credits, where eligible, to help make those plans affordable. Unfortunately, the site crashed early that morning after receiving just a thousand visitors. More than a month later, too many visitors still find the site unusable. At every step of the user experience, site errors have prevented people from effectively shopping and enrolling in plans. Users have encountered problems creating an account, verifying the account, determining eligibility, protecting user privacy, calculating tax credits, and facilitating enrollment with pri…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/casey-calls-on-ftc-to-issue-alert-on-email-phishing-scams-to-protect-consumers-over-holidays	Casey Calls on FTC to Issue Alert on Email 'Phishing' Scams to Protect Consumers Over Holidays	2013-12-23	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	PA	Bob Casey	C001070	www.casey.senate.gov	legacy	Washington, DC- After a week in which millions of consumers saw their personal financial information compromised, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) called on the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to issue an alert that will warn consumers to ever rising email phishing scams. An alert will educate the public on these scams which have already cost consumers over $250 million in the first half of this year and have hit seniors especially hard. “These scams have the potential to do serious damage to our economy and the personal financial security of millions of Americans,” Senator Casey said. “In the last weeks we’ve seen firsthand the damage that hackers and identity thieves can do. I’m urging the FTC to issue a consumer alert to educate the public, especially vulnerable seniors, about these scams so they are protected during the holidays.” Across the country, phishing attacks cost Americans $254 million in the first half of this year alone, according to EMC, a global IT firm. Phishing scammers are particularly active during the winter holiday season. At a time when many Americans are shopping online, donating to their favorite charities and booking travel arrangements, would-be identity thieves see increased opportunities to conduct phishing attacks. During this holiday period, thousands of Americans will receive false shipping notifications, electronic holiday cards and online shopping advertisements designed to steal their financial information. With online shopping reaching $82 billion this holiday season alone, the risks of phishing scams are higher than ever. Three quarters of phishing attacks target bank and non-bank financial companies. Government agencies have also helped raise awareness of the threat. However, most phishing alerts are released after the scam has already targeted victims. As a result, many firms and consumers remain vulnerable to this type of fraud. Older Americans who already face complicated financial decisions are particularly at risk. To sign up for phishing alerts, visit: www.consumer.ftc…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/casey-pushes-for-legislation-that-would-boost-food-banks-in-northeastern-pa-across-state	Casey Pushes for Legislation that Would Boost Food Banks in Northeastern PA, Across State	2013-12-23	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	PA	Bob Casey	C001070	www.casey.senate.gov	legacy	Washington, DC- As Pennsylvanians struggle with hunger around the holidays, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) pushed for passage of legislation, the Good Samaritan Hunger Relief Tax Incentive Act (S.1395), which would boost food banks in Northeastern Pennsylvania and across the state. Casey’s bipartisan legislation would expand and make permanent tax incentives for businesses that donate to food banks. Senator Casey was joined by hunger advocates and businesses to make the case for action on policies that aid families and children struggling with hunger. “This is one, commonsense step we can take to help food banks in Northeastern Pennsylvania and around the country serve those in need,” Senator Casey said. “Food banks play a critical role in ensuring those facing food insecurity, especially children, can get a full meal. Further incentivizing businesses to donate to food banks will help these children and working families throughout the state. The Good Samaritan Hunger Relief Tax Incentive Act would permanently extend the same tax incentives to donate food, that are now available to corporations, to all businesses including small businesses, farmers, ranchers and restaurant owners. Congress recently extended this tax incentive through the end of 2013. The Good Samaritan Hunger Relief Tax Incentive Act would make this provision permanent, and would extend the deduction to farmers who often have large amounts of fresh food to donate. Feeding America has said that following a 46 percent increase in demand during the recession, food banks are already struggling to meet need in their communities. Almost 15 percent of Pennsylvanians experience food insecurity and over 20 percent of children in Pennsylvania are food insecure (the household experienced a shortage of food). According to Feeding America, 35 percent of food insecure children are likely not eligible for SNAP or other income-based Federal nutrition programs. Despite the need for food assistance, as much as 40 percent of the food that is produced, grown and tr…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kelly.house.gov/press-release/rep-kelly-announces-nominees-us-military-academies	Rep. Kelly Announces Nominees to U.S. Military Academies	2013-12-21	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	PA	Mike Kelly	K000376	kelly.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON — Representative Mike Kelly (PA-03) announced the names of his nominees for the United States Military Academies, class of 2018, earlier today. The candidates met all application requirements with diligence, securing themselves an interview with Representative Kelly's independent Military Academy Advisory Board. Statement by Rep. Kelly: “This year we have proudly nominated seventeen remarkable candidates to the elite United States Military Academies. These young men and women have demonstrated that they are dedicated, poised, and highly capable of serving as leaders in our nation's military. These individuals were chosen to humbly represent the Third Congressional District of Pennsylvania and furthermore the United States of America, if offered an appointment.” Nominees: Max Campoli, Schreiner University Jason Clark, Sharon High School Sebastian Coburn, Greenville High School Daniel Dukleth, Slippery Rock University Brett Foster, Seneca Valley High School Melodie Harnett, Jamestown High School Dylan Hoffman, Seneca Valley High School Tyler Huston, Cochranton High School Cody Mahen, Lakeview High School Austin Malencia, Evangel Heights Christian Academy Mercer Martin, Greenville High School Thomas Pierre, Mars High School Alexander Pollaci, Seneca Valley High School Dante Policicchio, Freeport High School Bryan Sack, Butler High School George Staudacher, Mars High School Alexandra Steighner, Seneca Valley High School If you are interested in seeking a congressional nomination to one of the United States Military Academies for the class of 2019, applications will be accepted from May 1, 2014 until October 1, 2014. For more information please visit www.Kelly.house.gov or contact Stephanie Stevenson, Academy Coordinator, at Stephanie.Stevenson@mail.house.gov. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://marino.house.gov/press-release/marino-encourages-governor-corbett-state-legislature-act-rising-flood-insurance	Marino encourages Governor Corbett, state legislature to act on rising flood insurance premiums	2013-12-20	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	PA	Tom Marino	M001179	marino.house.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C. – U.S. Representative Tom Marino (R-PA) heard firsthand from dozens of residents across Lycoming County over the past week about the negative effects of the Biggert-Waters Flood Insurance Reform Act. Today, Marino sent a letter to Pennsylvania Governor Tom Corbett and Pennsylvania General Assembly leadership members, encouraging them to take action. “Unfortunately, Congress has neglected to delay, reform, or repeal Biggert-Waters prior to the end of year looming deadline,” Marino said in the letter. “Consequently, insurance premiums are set to dramatically increase in less than two weeks time – causing families and small businesses to decide between wiping out their bank accounts to purchase the federally mandated plans, or facing foreclosure proceedings. Although I supported the original intention of Biggert-Waters to make the flood insurance program once again solvent, it has clearly proven to have drastic unforeseen consequences with new skyrocketing insurance premiums.” Marino went on to request that members of the General Assembly come together to mitigate the unintended effects this law is having on low- and middle-income families across Pennsylvania. Specifically, he referenced a Mississippi lawsuit that challenges the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s failure to complete an affordability study before increasing insurance rates, as required by Biggert-Waters. “These premiums threaten the vibrancy and very existence of these towns as property values plummet, the real estate market dries up, and strong local tax bases vanish.” While thousands of homes, businesses and properties across the 10th Congressional District are facing dramatic increases in their flood insurance premiums, the effects of this legislation have been felt nation-wide. “The issue at hand was undoubtedly created at the federal level and should be fixed at the federal level as well,” Marino added. “As I continue to put pressure on my leadership and colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives to bring legislation…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://marino.house.gov/press-release/marino-urges-house-leadership-act-rising-flood-insurance-premiums	Marino urges House leadership to act on rising flood insurance premiums	2013-12-20	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	PA	Tom Marino	M001179	marino.house.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C. –U.S. Representative Tom Marino (R-PA) urged House Speaker John Boehner in a letter to bring legislation related to the increases in flood insurance premiums to the House floor for consideration as soon as possible. “Many of my constituents have contacted me in support of these legislative proposals,” Marino said in the letter, citing what he has heard from residents across Pennsylvania’s 10th Congressional District. “One individual who purchased a home valued under $150,000 last year is facing a premium increase of more than $8,000. An elderly man who purchased several properties as a retirement investment is considering abandoning the homes and walking away from the mortgage obligations, while another couple in Jersey Shore who similarly invested in several Main Street properties is facing a $40,000 flood insurance bill.” Marino, along with several colleagues who also have large constituencies affected by the increases to flood insurance premiums, urged House leadership to bring legislation to the floor for debate before the House adjourned for the legislative session but were unsuccessful. “As a co-sponsor of several pieces of legislation related to the premium rate increases currently awaiting further action in the House Committee on Financial Service, I ask that Members have the opportunity to debate and vote on legislation that could assist our constituents as we continue efforts to reform the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) to make the program financially stable for taxpayers without becoming overly burdensome on homeowners and small businesses,” Marino added. The 113th Congress will convene on January 7, 2014 to start its second legislative session. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://toomey.senate.gov?p=news&id=1232	Ridiculous [press_release]	2013-12-20	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	PA	Patrick Toomey	T000461	toomey.senate.gov	legacy	Stopping The EPA's Ridiculous Regulation Of Fire Hydrants Senate Unanimously Approves My Bill To Restore Fire Safety This week, I teamed up with Sen. Bob Casey to pass bipartisan legislation to bolster fire safety and protect local governments from a ridiculous, expensive, and dangerous new government mandate. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently announced a policy that would have required local governments to replace malfunctioning fire hydrants with new independently certified lead-free fire hydrants. This EPA regulation essentially made it impossible for local governments to repair fire hydrants or replace them with existing inventory. It was also uncertain whether fire hydrants that meet the new criteria were even available for purchase. Last week, Sen. Bob Casey and I introduced legislation (S. 1779) to exempt fire hydrants from the mandate. This week, the Senate unanimously passed House legislation identical to our bill. It was a rare outbreak of common sense on Capitol Hill. The notion that people drink from fire hydrants often enough to warrant this kind of regulation is ridiculous and in no way justifies the cost of replacing hydrants in every city and town in the country. It is great news that the Senate and the House have both acknowledged this absurdity. The implementation of this EPA rule would have forced local governments to leave malfunctioning fire hydrants idle until adequate funds and products are available. This poses an undeniable threat to public safety. The passage of our bipartisan bill is a great victory for common sense, and I look forward to President Obama signing it into law. Addressing The Nation Click to watch my remarks in the Republican Weekly Address I was honored to be asked to deliver last week's Republican Address. In my remarks, I spoke about how the President's flawed health care law is causing millions of Americans to lose the insurance plans they like. I also shared the story of a Westmoreland County woman who has multiple sclerosis. She recently…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://toomey.senate.gov?p=news&id=1233	Sen. Toomey?s Resolution Urging Release Of Religious Prisoners In Iran Passes Senate [press_release]	2013-12-20	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	PA	Patrick Toomey	T000461	toomey.senate.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Pat Toomey's (R-Pa.) bipartisan resolution (S. Res. 75) urging the Islamic Republic of Iran to release those imprisoned solely because of their religion passed the Senate today. The resolution, cosponsored by Sen. Toomey and 34 colleagues, condemns Iran's state-sponsored persecution of its Baha'i minority as one of the regime's longstanding human rights violations. It also urges President Obama and Secretary of State Kerry to impose sanctions on Iranian government officials and other individuals directly responsible for serious human rights abuses, including those against the Baha'i community in Iran. The Baha'i faith is a monotheistic religion emphasizing the spiritual unity of all humankind and was founded by Baha'u'llah in 19th-century Persia. There are an estimated five to six million Baha'is around the world in more than 200 countries and territories. Since the Islamic Revolution of 1979, Iranian Baha'is have regularly had their homes ransacked or have been banned from attending university or holding government jobs. "Religious freedom is a natural right that belongs to everyone, everywhere. As a beacon of that freedom, it is appropriate that the U.S. Senate has shown solidarity with the beleaguered Iranian people, including the Baha'i minority," said Sen. Toomey. "I urge President Obama to employ the strongest sanctions against Iran to help ensure that the regime honors the basic dignity of its own people." Members of Philadelphia's Baha'i community thanked Sen. Toomey for his leadership on the resolution when he sponsored the bill in September. "The Baha'i community is deeply appreciative of Senator Toomey championing the religious freedom of the Baha'is, and indeed of all religious minorities in Iran. Baha'is have long been subject to particularly severe religious freedom violations in Iran. They have been banned from universities, denied government jobs, and their marriages are not recognized by the state. Seven Baha'i leaders have currently been in prison for the past fi…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://dent.house.gov/index.cfm?p=PressReleases&ContentRecord_id=BFDC0DDA-C362-4025-B031-2E9AE1650CF6	Congressman Dents Statement on President Obamas Decision to Exempt Individuals from the Health Care Law	2013-12-20	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	PA	Charlie Dent	D000604	dent.house.gov	legacy	Once again, the President’s administrative action further calls into question his credibility on the unfolding implementation disaster of the health care law. When the reality of the staggering flaws in the law began to sink in with the country, President Obama did an end-run around Congress and delayed the employer mandate. The House then voted to delay both the employer and individual mandates. President Obama tried to turn us into villains for our necessary actions and said he’d veto both bills. Now, the reality of millions of Americans losing their insurance as a result of this flawed law has caused President Obama to partially delay the individual mandate. The Senate should immediately take-up the House passed bills on the delays to the individual and employer mandates and pass them. President Obama then needs to sign them. We are not a country ruled by fiat from the White House. It’s time that President Obama recognized the restraints that the constitution places on his power. Contact: Shawn Millan (610) 770-3490 ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140221025354/http://perry.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/us-house-remains-focused-on-job-creation	U.S. House Remains Focused on Job Creation	2013-12-20	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	PA	Scott Perry	P000605	web.archive.org	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. – For the first year of the 113th Congress, the U.S. House of Representatives has consistently focused its efforts on helping to foster an environment for real job growth. The House has passed nearly 150 bills this year that the Senate has failed to act on. Many of these bills could help our economy and boost job creation. “In my discussions with constituents around the 4th Congressional District, the economy and jobs remain the top concern of most constituents, regardless of political ideology,” said U.S. Representative Scott Perry (PA-4). “These solutions will help expand opportunity for everyone – and I hope the Senate will consider our proposals in 2014.” The House passed a budget earlier this year that balances over the next 10 years and lays the groundwork for a fairer, simpler tax code. While the bipartisan budget agreement that was negotiated with the Senate and passed last week was much smaller in scope, it still reduces the deficit by $23 billion and guarantees that seniors won’t lose access to their doctors. Many bills the House has passed would reform job training programs and expand education opportunities to give Americans the tools they need to find work in a tough economy. The House adopted the Skills Act (H.R. 803) which streamlines dozens of overlapping federal job training programs, and helps connect out-of-work Americans with the training programs they need. The House also passed bills to promote American energy independence, create jobs, address energy costs, and revitalize manufacturing. Such bills included the Natural Gas Pipeline Permitting Reform Act (H.R. 1900) which streamlines the permitting process for pipelines to increase the supply and reduce the cost of American-made natural gas and help create good paying jobs. On a positive note, two bills to help spur hydropower development, H.R. 267 and H.R. 678, passed the House and were signed into law this year. Hydropower is the largest source of clean, renewable energy in the U.S., creating thousands of jobs (including …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140623003122/http://meehan.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=49&itemid=682	Meehan, Lawmakers Seek Answers on DOD Helicopter Buy - Congressman Patrick Meehan (PA-07) and a bipartisan group of legislators	2013-12-20	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	PA	Pat Meehan	M001181	web.archive.org	legacy	Meehan, Lawmakers Seek Answers on DOD Helicopter Buy WASHINGTON, DC– Congressman Patrick Meehan (PA-07) and a bipartisan group of legislators who represent workers at Boeing’s manufacturing facility in Ridley Park, PA today sent a letter to Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel seeking answers on the Defense Department’s decision to purchase Russian-built helicopters to equip Afghan security forces. A recent Associated Press article indicates the Department made the decision to purchase Russian Mi-17 “Hip” helicopters despite an internal report that concluded the CH-47 Chinook was “the most cost-effective” helicopter for Afghan forces. Meehan was joined by Reps. John Carney (DE-AL), Robert Brady (PA-1), Jim Gerlach (PA-6), Chaka Fattah (PA-2) and Allyson Schwartz (PA-13) in sending the letter. “As lawmakers who represent the workers who make the CH-47 Chinook at the Boeing Facility located in Ridley Park, Pennsylvania, we respectfully request clarification on the allegations that the Pentagon overruled a recommendation to buy an American-made aircraft,” the letter said. A signed copy of the letter is available here.The full text of the letter is below: December 19, 2013 The Honorable Charles T. Hagel Secretary of Defense 1000 Defense Pentagon Washington, D.C. 20301 Dear Secretary Hagel, We are writing to you regarding a December 7 Associated Press article on the Department of Defense’s purchase of Russian Mi-17 helicopters. The article, entitled “Did the Pentagon mislead Congress over purchase of Russian Mi-17s for Afghanistan,” cites senior Pentagon officials assuring Congress that the Russian-made helicopters were the “superior choice” for outfitting the Afghan security forces. According to a 2010 Department of Defense internal study, however, the U.S. Army’s Chinook was found to be “the most cost-effective single platform type fleet for the Afghan Air Force over a twenty year period.” If this study is correct, why was the Chinook not chosen as the air…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/after-request-from-casey-government-watchdog-agrees-to-investigate-rollout-of-healthcaregov-	After Request from Casey, Government Watchdog Agrees to Investigate Rollout of Healthcare.gov	2013-12-20	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	PA	Bob Casey	C001070	www.casey.senate.gov	legacy	Casey, Bipartisan Group of Senators Requested Review of Website’s Troubled Launch Review is Step Towards Holding Administration Accountable, Ensuring Errors Aren’t Made Again Washington, DC- Today, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) announced that the Government Accountability Office (GAO) has agreed to his request to investigate the problems that occurred with the roll of healthcare.gov. Senator Casey, along with a bipartisan group of senators, urged the GAO to review the website’s troubled launch and make recommendations about steps that can be taken in the future to ensure a problem like this does not reoccur. Casey, a member of the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions, has questioned top Administration officials on the website during oversight hearings. "I’m pleased that the GAO has agreed to analyze the issues that occurred in launching healthcare.gov,” Senator Casey said. “I called for this report because Pennsylvanians deserve answers. It’s imperative that we have an understanding of the problems with the website launch, as well as the steps the Administration can take moving forward. It’s important that Pennsylvanians can access the benefits of this law.” The full text of Casey’s original letter can be seen below: Gene L. Dodaro Comptroller General Government Accountability Office 441 G Street, NW Washington, DC 20548 Daniel R. Levinson Inspector General U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Room 5541 Cohen Building 330 Independence Avenue, SW Washington, DC 20201 Dear Comptroller General Dodaro and Inspector General Levinson: On October 1, millions of Americans eagerly awaited the launch of healthcare.gov, a new marketplace where individuals and small businesses could easily compare quality health plans in their area and access tax credits, where eligible, to help make those plans affordable. Unfortunately, the site crashed early that morning after receiving just a thousand visitors. More than a month later, too many visitors still find the site unusable. At ever…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/casey-coons-carper-push-for-investment-in-job-creating-delaware-deepening-project-in-upcoming-budget	Casey, Coons, Carper Push for Investment in Job-Creating Delaware Deepening Project in Upcoming Budget	2013-12-20	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	PA	Bob Casey	C001070	www.casey.senate.gov	legacy	Washington, DC- Today, U.S. Senators Bob Casey (D-PA) Chris Coons (D-DE) and Tom Carper (D-DE) announced that they have sent a letter to key Administration officials urging them to commit to investing in the Delaware Deepening project as they prepare their fiscal year 2015 budget (FY15). The letter, to Assistant Secretary for Civil Works at the Department of the Army and Office and Management and Budget Director Sylvia Mathews Burwell, makes the economic case for finishing this project which is well on its way to completion. This initiative will increase economic activity by $13 million per year and create and sustain thousands of jobs. Casey, Coons, and Carper have repeatedly pushed for, and have been successful in delivering, funds to this project. Deepening the Delaware will have a significant impact on job creation and allow the region’s ports to continue as national leaders. The project has continued to progress and now needs funding for a complex portion, which includes rock removal. The Senators wrote, “Without sufficient funding in FY 2015, it is possible that the Corps would have to wait at least another year before starting the rock removal or to break the rock contract into a series of segments, which will significantly increase the time needed to complete the project and the attendant cost.” The full text of the Senators’ letter can be seen below: The Honorable Jo-Ellen Darcy Assistant Secretary for Civil Works Department of the Army The Honorable Sylvia Mathews Burwell Director Office of Management and Budget Dear Secretary Darcy and Director Burwell: We write in support of funding for the Delaware River Main Channel Deepening Project in the President’s FY 2015 budget. Continuing the progress made to date is vitally important to the prosperity of the Delaware River regional economy. Inclusion of adequate funding in the budget will help ensure that the project is finished by its target completion date in 2017. The purpose of this project, which has received federal funding since 199…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/casey-italian-consulate-will-remain-in-philadelphia	Casey: Italian Consulate Will Remain in Philadelphia	2013-12-20	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	PA	Bob Casey	C001070	www.casey.senate.gov	legacy	Washington, DC- Today, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) announced that Italy’s Philadelphia consulate will remain open. Senator Casey recently sent letters to Italian officials, in particular President Napolitano and Foreign Minister Bonino, urging the country to keep its Philadelphia consulate open. Italy had announced that it was considering closing the consulate. In making the case, Senator Casey cited the critical role that the city’s strong ties to Italy has played for the region’s economy through job creation and trade. In 2010, the region accounted for approximately $300 million in exports to Italy. Casey also cited Philadelphia’s large Italian-American population and the city’s role as an east coast hub of business, politics and culture in making the case. Senator Casey also recently spoke with the U.S. Ambassador to Italy, John Phillips, to emphasize the strong economic and cultural relationship. In addition to the region’s exports to Italy, Italy also benefits from exporting a large number of products into Pennsylvania. Senator Casey also spoke with Italy’s Foreign Minister Emma Bonino. “This is great news for Philadelphia and the region’s economy,” Senator Casey “This decision ensures Philadelphia and Italy will continue to have a strong partnership that promotes trade and leads to job creation. I want to also thank Governor Corbett for his efforts to keep the Italian Consulate in Philadelphia. I appreciated the opportunity to work with him in a bipartisan fashion on an issue that is important to Philadelphia.” The full text of Senator Casey’s recent letter can be seen below: His Excellency Giorgio Napolitano President of the Republic of Italy Dear President Napolitano: It has recently come to my attention that the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs is considering closure of its consulate in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. I am writing to respectfully urge you not to take this action. An active consulate in Philadelphia is vital to maintaining the strong, longstanding relationship between the…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/casey-statement-on-senate-passage-of-national-defense-authorization-act	Casey Statement on Senate Passage of National Defense Authorization Act	2013-12-20	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	PA	Bob Casey	C001070	www.casey.senate.gov	legacy	Washington, DC- Today, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) released the following statement on the Senate passage of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA): “I am pleased the Congress was able to get together in a bipartisan manner and pass the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). This marks the 53rd year in a row that we have passed this bill which supports our servicemembers and authorizes critical national security programs. I am pleased that several of the provisions which I authored and strongly supported were included in this bill, such as security for Afghan women and girls, efforts to combat sexual assault in the military and reducing the VA backlog.” Details on several provisions Senator Casey’s has supported are below: Security for Afghan Women and Girls: After the success of Senator Casey’s amendment to the FY13 NDAA on Afghan women and girls security, Senator Casey’s continued leadership has kept the issue of Afghan women’s rights and security at the forefront of U.S. policy in Afghanistan. The NDAA includes language from the amendment Senator Casey introduced to the FY14 NDAA to support the security of Afghan women. The bill provides for programs and activities to support the recruitment, integration, retention, training and treatment of women in the Afghan National Security Forces. Such programs include working to increase female security personnel ahead of the April 2014 elections; development and dissemination of gender and human rights education and training materials and programs within the Afghan Ministry of Defense and Ministry of Interior; efforts to address harassment and violence against women within the ANSF; and improvements to infrastructure that address the requirements of women serving in the ANSF. GAO Review on Bradley Industrial Base Study: This provision requires GAO to conduct a review of the Army AT Kearney study on the Bradley Fighting Vehicle report. The report, initially required by Senators Casey and Toomey in FY13 NDAA has been repeatedly delayed by t…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kelly.house.gov/press-release/rep-kelly-co-sponsors-bill-protect-military-retiree-benefits	Rep. Kelly Co-Sponsors Bill to Protect Military Retiree Benefits	2013-12-19	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	PA	Mike Kelly	K000376	kelly.house.gov	legacy	Legislation would adjust Bipartisan Budget Act, fight fraud, save taxpayer dollars WASHINGTON — Representative Mike Kelly (R-PA), a member of the House Ways and Means Committee, issued the following statement today regarding the introduction of legislation by Rep. Mike Fitzpatrick (R-PA) to repeal the adjustments to military retirement benefits included in the recently passed Bipartisan Budget Act and offset the cost with a measure aimed at stopping rampant tax credit fraud. The measure would institute a requirement that taxpayers must provide the Social Security Numbers of dependents whom they claim for the Child Tax Credit. Rep. Kelly is an original co-sponsor of this legislation. “As both a citizen and an elected representative, I revere and cherish every single American who heroically volunteers to serve our nation in uniform. I believe our veterans deserve every single penny they earned for serving our great country — and I will always have their back in every policy debate, every time. Even when crafting practical yet imperfect fiscal solutions such as the recent budget deal, our commitment to our military members must never waiver. “As I said at the time of its initial passage, the Bipartisan Budget Act is small first step to moving the federal government in a fiscally responsible direction. Many other steps, including greater adjustments and improvements to the law, will be necessary. Having heard the concerns and frustrations of my constituents over the law’s provision regarding military retiree benefits, I am proud to co-sponsor legislation that locates savings which do not affect our fighting men and women in any capacity. “Curbing federal tax fraud is an indispensable element of serious debt and deficit reduction. By enacting commonsense anti-fraud measures into the tax code, we are ensuring that the American people’s money is spent as legitimately as possible, saving billions in taxpayer dollars, and keeping our sacred promises to those who defend us. NOTE: According to a report by the Joint Committ…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://marino.house.gov/press-release/marino-meets-residents-small-businesses-discuss-increase-flood-insurance-premiums	Marino meets with residents, small businesses to discuss increase in flood insurance premiums	2013-12-19	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	PA	Tom Marino	M001179	marino.house.gov	legacy	Williamsport, PA - Earlier this week, U.S. Representative Tom Marino (R-PA) joined local officials in Muncy, Montoursville and Jersey Shore to meet with residents and small business owners who have been affected by the recent increases in flood insurance premiums. Since 1968, the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) has been assisting families and businesses to rebuild after devastating floods. However, in the aftermath of natural disasters like Hurricane Katrina, Hurricane Rita and Superstorm Sandy, the program is now $28 billion in debt. “Because of this debt, Congress took action and passed the Biggert-Waters Flood Insurance Reform Act of 2012,” Marino said. “While this legislation was the best option at the time, it led to the unintended consequence of drastically increased premiums for some of those with flood insurance.” Marino added, “I have been hearing about these dramatic rate increases from my constituents for months now, and while I understand the need for homeowners to pay a premium that reflects the actual risk of their property flooding, Congress needs to find a solution that ensures flood insurance remains an affordable safety net for low and middle class families.” Rep. Marino was joined by local officials, including Lycoming County Commissioners Jeff Wheeland, Ernie Larson and Tony Mussare, Muncy Borough Manager William Ramsey, Montoursville Mayor John Dorin, representatives from the offices of State Senator Eugene Yaw and State Representative Garth Everett, and other community leaders, as he met with several residents and local business owners across Lycoming County who have seen their premium rates skyrocket. “A homeowner that I met with in Muncy told me his flood insurance premiums are going from less than $1,000 a year to over $9,000,” Marino said. “Another couple invested in properties along Main Street in Jersey Shore but is now facing a $40,000 bill every year for their insurance premium.” “I am doing everything I can to redress the negative effects of the Biggert-Waters Act and fi…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://toomey.senate.gov?p=news&id=1230	Toomey To Sebelius: Provide Data On Premium Rates Under Obamacare [press_release]	2013-12-19	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	PA	Patrick Toomey	T000461	toomey.senate.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Pat Toomey (R-Pa.) has asked Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Kathleen Sebelius to provide detailed information about current and projected health insurance premium rates under Obamacare. During questioning at a recent Senate Finance Committee hearing, Secretary Sebelius could not deny that health insurance premiums are rising. Sen. Toomey and Republican members of the Senate Finance Committee have sent a letter to the secretary requesting the average premium rates for individuals age 27, 40 and 64 years for the following categories: o In each of the bronze, silver, and gold plans offered on the health care exchanges. o The rates for these exchange-based plans before taxpayer-funded subsidies. o A breakdown of these rates for the 27 states participating in the federally-facilitated exchange, the 7 partnership marketplaces, and the 17 state-based marketplaces. o The rates for individuals who continue to receive employer based health insurance. An August 2013 Kaiser Family Foundation analysis found that annual premiums for employer-based health insurance for families would increase from $13,375 in 2009 to $16,351 in 2013. Further, a recent Manhattan Institute for Policy Research study found that premiums in the individual market will increase, on average, by about 41 percent from their pre-Obamacare levels. The full text of the senators' letter is below: December 12, 2013 The Honorable Kathleen Sebelius Secretary U.S. Department of Health and Human Services 200 Independence Avenue, SW Washington, DC 20201 Dear Secretary Sebelius: We write seeking detailed information about current and projected health insurance premium rates under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA). Throughout the 2008 presidential campaign, then-Senator Barack Obama repeatedly promised that his health care plan would bring down premiums by as much as $2,500 for the typical family. As president, he continued to make this claim, even after studies demonstrated prem…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://toomey.senate.gov?p=news&id=1234	Sen. Toomey Will Vote Yes On Defense Authorization [press_release]	2013-12-19	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	PA	Patrick Toomey	T000461	toomey.senate.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C. - In a vote scheduled for later tonight, U.S. Senator Pat Toomey (R-Pa.) intends to vote for the defense authorization bill. Below is his statement. "The defense authorization bill outlines federal spending for the essential programs our armed services need to provide national security. "This year's bill funds important defense programs in Pennsylvania at appropriate levels. "The legislation also makes historic reforms to components of the military justice system relating to sexual assault, which I am proud to support. "While not perfect, I believe the defense authorization bill will help provide our service members with the resources they need to defend our nation."	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20131231190842/http://fitzpatrick.house.gov:80/press-release/fitzpatrick-introduces-bill-protect-military-benefits	Fitzpatrick Introduces Bill to Protect Military Benefits	2013-12-19	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	PA	Michael Fitzpatrick	F000451	web.archive.org	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Mike Fitzpatrick (PA-8) introduced legislation Thursday to remove the adjustments to military retirement benefits included in the recently passed budget agreement and offset the cost by closing loopholes at the IRS that allow for rampant tax credit fraud. “This nation desperately needs a return to fiscal normalcy and bipartisan cooperation. While the Bipartisan Budget Act is a step in that direction, it does so partly on the backs of our brave military veterans,” said Fitzpatrick. “What I’ve done is introduce a bill to remove that burden from our military retirees and replace it with common sense reforms to the Child Tax Credit program.” Fitzpatrick’s bipartisan bill [H.R. 3788] would replace the $6 billion savings in the budget - accomplished by modifying the way military retiree Cost of Living Adjustments (COLA) are calculated - by closing loopholes within the tax code that allow people, some of whom are not in the United States legally, to improperly collect tax credits. “The non-partisan Joint Tax Commission reported last year that by closing the loophole for fraudulent payments, the taxpayer could save nearly $7 billion over 10 years. That’s enough to remove the need to make any changes to military benefits,” explained Fitzpatrick. (A copy of the report is attached) Fitzpatrick also highlighted a 2011 Treasury Department Investigator General report which put the cost of fraudulent tax credit payments at over $4 billion in 2010 alone. In a letter, Fitzpatrick asked for further information about the report and details about what actions the agency had taken to rectify the problem. (A copy of the letter is attached) "I fully support Congressman Fitzpatrick’s bill to repeal the reduction in military retirement benefits in the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 and to require the taxpayer Social Security Number to claim a refundable portion of the child tax credit," said Col. Daniel L. Rubini (Ret.). "This is but one highly desirable step to take to keep the promise made to our soldiers.…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140222032611/http://schwartz.house.gov/press-release/schwartz-demands-restoration-full-military-retirement-benefits	Schwartz Demands Restoration of Full Military Retirement Benefits	2013-12-19	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	PA	Allyson Schwartz	S001162	web.archive.org	legacy	Washington, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Allyson Y. Schwartz (PA-13) today joined her colleagues in introducing the Military Retirement Restoration Act to protect military retirees from cuts to cost-of-living adjustments (COLAs) that were included in the recent bipartisan budget agreement. The legislation replaces the $6 billion in total expected cuts to working-age military retirees’ COLAs with an estimated $6.6 billion raised by eliminating a tax loophole for domestic corporations that use offshore tax havens. “The bipartisan budget agreement is a positive step toward replacing the damaging sequester cuts that have cost Pennsylvania jobs and put our nation’s economy at risk, but it is far from perfect. The agreement includes a provision that unfairly targets our nation’s military families with cost-of-living adjustment cuts that could cause significant harm to many of our veterans,” Schwartz said. “This legislation is a fiscally responsible solution to the problem and it ensures our military retirees get the benefits they have earned and deserve.” U.S. Rep. Dan Maffei (D-NY) is the lead sponsor of the Military Retirement Restoration Act in the House. U.S. Sens. Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Mark R. Warner (D-VA) have introduced companion legislation in the Senate. If Congress leaves the military retirement cuts in place, veterans under age 62 would see their cost-of-living adjustments reduced beginning in December 2015. Under current law, companies that are incorporated offshore but managed and controlled from the United States can claim foreign status, which helps them avoid paying U.S. taxes. The bill requires these companies to be treated as U.S. domestic corporations for tax purposes. Schwartz, the daughter of a Korean War veteran, has been a staunch advocate for veterans. Earlier this year, she introduced: The Student Veterans Priority Enrollment Act (H.R. 3456) to provide veterans, service members and their families priority when registering for college classes. The legislation ensures that veterans and students servin…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140222222403/http://schwartz.house.gov/press-release/casey-schwartz-doyle-brady-fattah-and-cartwright-release-county-county-report	Casey, Schwartz, Doyle, Brady, Fattah and Cartwright Release County by County Report Highlighting Need to Extend Unemployment Insurance	2013-12-19	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	PA	Allyson Schwartz	S001162	web.archive.org	legacy	Extending Unemployment Insurance Would Benefit Over 73,000 Pennsylvanians Looking for Work Extending Unemployment Insurance Will Boost GDP, Employment in Coming Months Washington, DC - Today, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) and Representatives Allyson Schwartz (D-PA), Mike Doyle (D-PA), Bob Brady (D-PA), Chaka Fattah (D-PA) and Matt Cartwright (D-PA) released a new county by county report that highlights the need to extend the unemployment insurance benefits that are set to expire at the end of this month. The report, which was produced by minority staff of the House Ways and Means Committee with data from the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry shows that extending unemployment insurance would benefit over 73,000 Pennsylvanians. Further data shows that an extension of this program will boost GDP and job creation in the coming months. “I’m urging Congress to come together on a bipartisan basis to extend unemployment insurance soon,” Senator Casey said. “Extending unemployment insurance will help those actively seeking work and provide a jolt to GDP as we begin the new year.” “At a time when our country is seeing strong signs of recovery, the last thing we need is another self-inflicted economic wound,” said Congressman Fattah. “Unemployment benefits were designed to help out of work individuals get back on their feet and return to the labor force as soon as possible, with minimal loss of skills. Failing to extend unemployment insurance will hurt job creation and our country’s GDP. This is a safety net for tens of thousands across our state and these benefits should be extended.” “Millions of Americans are still out of work as a result of the recent recession,” Congressman Doyle said. “Unemployment has come down a lot, but at 7 percent, it’s still hard for many Americans to find work. The same is true in southwestern Pennsylvania. This isn’t the time to arbitrarily end federal emergency unemployment assistance to the long-term unemployed. Moreover, ending EUC now will slow economic growth and job creation…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140309100622/http://rothfus.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=25&itemid=637	Rothfus Working to Protect Military Retiree Benefits	2013-12-19	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	PA	Keith Rothfus	R000598	web.archive.org	legacy	Washington, D.C. – Congressman Keith Rothfus [PA-12] released the following statement after co-sponsoring solutions to address the cut in cost-of-living adjustments (COLAs) for military retirees that were included in the Murray-Ryan budget agreement: “The Murray-Ryan budget agreement is nowhere near perfect,” said Rothfus. “Although I support replacing across the board sequester cuts with permanent reforms to mandatory spending, I am opposed to cuts to COLAs for military retirees and surviving spouses. “After consulting with local military retirees in Western Pennsylvania and my colleagues in Congress about possible solutions, I co-sponsored two proposals to correct this situation. Congress should remedy this issue as soon as possible.” Congressman Rothfus is working with Congressman Mike Fitzpatrick [PA-08] on H.R. 3788, legislation that would repeal the budget agreement’s COLA changes entirely and offset the cost with common-sense reforms to the tax code. He is also working with House Veterans’ Affairs Committee Chairman Jeff Miller [FL-01] on H.R. 3789, legislation that would specifically exempt disabled military retirees and surviving spouses from these changes. Congressman Rothfus is an original co-sponsor on both of these proposals.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/casey-fattah-doyle-brady-schwartz-and-cartwright-release-county-by-county-report-highlighting-need-to-extend-unemployment-insurance	Casey, Fattah, Doyle, Brady, Schwartz and Cartwright Release County by County Report Highlighting Need to Extend Unemployment Insurance	2013-12-19	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	PA	Bob Casey	C001070	www.casey.senate.gov	legacy	Washington, DC- Today, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) and Representatives Chaka Fattah (D-PA), Mike Doyle (D-PA), Bob Brady (D-PA), Allyson Schwartz (D-PA) and Matt Cartwright (D-PA) released a new county by county report that highlights the need to extend the unemployment insurance benefits that are set to expire at the end of this month. The report, which was produced by minority staff of the House Ways and Means Committee with data from the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry shows that extending unemployment insurance would benefit over 73,000 Pennsylvanians. Further data shows that an extension of this program will boost GDP and job creation in the coming months. “I’m urging Congress to come together on a bipartisan basis to extend unemployment insurance soon,” Senator Casey said. “Extending unemployment insurance will help those actively seeking work and provide a jolt to GDP as we begin the new year.” “At a time when our country is seeing strong signs of recovery, the last thing we need is another self-inflicted economic wound,” said Congressman Fattah. “Unemployment benefits were designed to help out of work individuals get back on their feet and return to the labor force as soon as possible, with minimal loss of skills. Failing to extend unemployment insurance will hurt job creation and our country’s GDP. This is a safety net for tens of thousands across our state and these benefits should be extended.” “Millions of Americans are still out of work as a result of the recent recession,” Congressman Doyle said. “Unemployment has come down a lot, but at 7 percent, it’s still hard for many Americans to find work. The same is true in southwestern Pennsylvania. This isn’t the time to arbitrarily end federal emergency unemployment assistance to the long-term unemployed. Moreover, ending EUC now will slow economic growth and job creation. It makes no economic sense, and it’s no way to treat our neighbors whose deepest desire is to get another job.” Congressman Brady: “It’s no surprise that Americans…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/support-for-able-act-continues-to-grow	Support for ABLE Act Continues to Grow	2013-12-19	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	PA	Bob Casey	C001070	www.casey.senate.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, support continued to grow for the Achieving a Better Life Experience Act (ABLE Act – S. 313/H.R. 647), introduced by U.S. Senators Bob Casey (D-PA) and Richard Burr (R-NC), bringing the total number of co-sponsors in the Senate to 60 members. Introduced in the 113th Congress in February, this bill would provide an improved quality of life for individuals with disabilities through tax-free savings accounts. “This is a significant step forward for the ABLE Act and for the families of children with disabilities,” Senator Casey said. “Now that this bill has 60 cosponsors, I’m urging the Senate to take action on it in the new year. The fact that only 6 bills in all of Congress have this many cosponsors is a sign of the overwhelming support for this effort to make a major difference in the lives of these families.” “The ABLE Act is a commonsense piece of legislation that allows families of disabled children to have the same access to tax preferred savings accounts as the parents of college-bound kids,” Senator Burr said. “I am very excited that we now have 60 Senators on board and can hopefully expect swift movement on the Senate floor to send this bill to the President.” The legislation would amend Section 529 of the Internal Revenue Service Code to 1986 to allow use of tax-free savings accounts for individuals with disabilities. The bill, first introduced in 2006, would ease financial strains faced by individuals with disabilities by making tax-free savings accounts available to cover qualified expenses such as education, housing, medical, and transportation. The bill would supplement, but not supplant, benefits provided through private insurance, the Medicaid program, the beneficiary’s employment, and other sources. ### Press Contact April Mellody (Casey) (202) 224-6324Robert Reid (Burr) (202) 228-1616	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://cartwright.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cartwright-announces-94-million-modification-of-existing-defense	Cartwright Announces $9.4 Million Modification of Existing Defense Contract	2013-12-18	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	PA	Matt Cartwright	C001090	cartwright.house.gov	legacy	Washington – Today, U.S. Rep. Matt Cartwright announced that the U.S. Department of the Army has modified an existing contract with General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems, Inc. The modification of the contract amounts to nearly $9.5 million for General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems. The estimated cumulative total of the contract is approximately $200 million. The modification is a Sole Source award for an additional quantity of 27,803 M795 metal parts. The M795, a 155mm high fragmentation steel body projectile, is the Marine Corps’ artillery round of choice. The M795 is only produced in Scranton, Pennsylvania and has an estimated completion date of June 30, 2014. “I am glad that the Department of the Army has requested additional components from General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems,” said Cartwright. “This modification will result in more work for our region. As a proud supporter of our military, I am pleased that northeastern Pennsylvania can continue to contribute the resources necessary to support the warfighter and ensure our national security.” General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems is a business unit within the Combat Systems Group of General Dynamics, which was formed in 1952.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://toomey.senate.gov?p=news&id=1228	Senate Passes Toomey-Casey Measure To Stop EPA?s Dangerous Regulation Of Fire Hydrants [press_release]	2013-12-18	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	PA	Patrick Toomey	T000461	toomey.senate.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senators Pat Toomey (R-Pa.) and Bob Casey (D-Pa.) successfully teamed up to pass bipartisan legislation to bolster fire safety and protect local governments from a dangerous and expensive new mandate. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently announced a policy that will require local governments to replace malfunctioning fire hydrants with new independently certified lead-free fire hydrants. This EPA regulation essentially makes it impossible for local governments to repair fire hydrants or replace them with existing inventory. Additionally, it is uncertain whether fire hydrants that meet the new criteria are actually available for purchase. Last week, the Senators introduced legislation (S. 1779) to exempt fire hydrants from the mandate. The Senate unanimously passed House legislation identical to S. 1779 today. "The notion that people drink from fire hydrants often enough to warrant this kind of regulation is ridiculous and in no way justifies the cost of replacing hydrants in every city and town in the country," said Sen. Toomey. "It's great news that the Senate and the House have both acknowledged this absurdity. The implementation of this EPA rule would have forced local governments to leave malfunctioning fire hydrants idle until adequate funds and products are available - which poses an undeniable threat to public safety. The passage of our bipartisan bill is a great victory for common sense, and I look forward to President Obama signing it into law." "I'm pleased that the Senate has come together in a bipartisan fashion to pass this legislation which will allow our first responders to continue their lifesaving work without the fear of a new, burdensome regulation," Sen. Casey said. "Passing this bill will help municipalities replace aging fire hydrants and prevent the EPA from moving forward with this unworkable regulation." As a result of this rule, local governments across the country will be forced to leave malfunctioning fire hydrants out-of-service until suffici…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://toomey.senate.gov?p=news&id=1229	Sen. Toomey Issues Statement Regarding Israel?s Decision To Maintain Presence In Philadelphia [press_release]	2013-12-18	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	PA	Patrick Toomey	T000461	toomey.senate.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, U.S. Senator Pat Toomey (R-Pa.) issued the following statement in response to the news that the Israeli consulate located in Philadelphia will remain open. Sen. Toomey sent a letter to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in November upon learning that the consulate may be closed. "I applaud Israel's decision to keep its consulate in Philadelphia open and I thank Prime Minster Netanyahu for his consideration," said Sen. Toomey. "Given Southeastern Pennsylvania's large population with personal and business ties to Israel, the consulate has long played an integral part in developing important business, artistic, and political connections between the United States and Israel. I am confident that Israel's renewed commitment to Philadelphia will sustain and grow these relationships."	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140222222500/http://schwartz.house.gov/press-release/schwartz-presses-irs-protect-volunteer-firefighters	Schwartz Presses IRS to Protect Volunteer Firefighters	2013-12-18	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	PA	Allyson Schwartz	S001162	web.archive.org	legacy	Washington, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Allyson Y. Schwartz (PA-13) today called on the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to protect Pennsylvania’s volunteer fire departments from an unnecessary and potentially harmful health insurance burden. In her letter, Schwartz urged IRS Acting Commissioner Daniel I. Werfel to clarify the tax status of volunteer firefighters and volunteer emergency workers under the Affordable Care Act (ACA). The IRS now treats many firefighters and emergency medical workers, whether they are volunteer or paid, as employees for federal tax purposes. Starting in 2015, the health care law will require employers with 50 or more full-time employees to provide health insurance or pay penalties. “I urge you to act swiftly to ensure that volunteer fire departments across the country have clarity regarding the application of the Affordable Care Act to volunteer firefighters,” Schwartz wrote. “Congress clearly intended ACA insurance requirements to apply to employees, not volunteers. Requiring communities to provide health care benefits to volunteer firefighters and emergency medical technicians may simply be unaffordable for many communities. This could create a dangerous situation, whereby communities are forced to eliminate critical volunteer positions, endangering the safety and welfare of their residents.” In Pennsylvania, 97 percent of fire departments rely exclusively or mostly on volunteers, the fourth-highest level in the nation, according to the 2012 National Fire Department Census conducted by the U.S. Fire Administration and the Federal Emergency Management Agency. Throughout her tenure in Congress, Schwartz has fought to ensure Pennsylvania’s firefighters receive the care and treatment they have so bravely earned. Schwartz is proud to serve as a member of the Congressional Fire Services Caucus. As part of her continued efforts to support Pennsylvania's first responders, Schwartz has worked to increase funding for the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program and the Staffing for Adequate Fire an…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140413170307/http://meehan.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=49&itemid=684	Meehan, Gerlach Join Airlines, Labor for Rally to Protect American Air Carrier Jobs	2013-12-18	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	PA	Pat Meehan	M001181	web.archive.org	legacy	Meehan, Gerlach Join Airlines, Labor for Rally to Protect American Air Carrier Jobs Lawmakers joined by ALPA President, Airlines 4 America CEO, Assn. of Flight Attendants-CWA International President PHILADELPHIA, PA– Congressman Patrick Meehan (PA-7) and Congressman Jim Gerlach (PA-6) joined senior leadership from aviation industry stakeholder groups across the county today to oppose the creation of a Customs Pre-Clearance Facility in Abu Dhabi that will give a competitive advantage to a foreign state-owned airline. Nick Calio, President of Airlines for America, Capt. Lee Moak, President of Airline Pilots Association International, and Veda Shook, International President of the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA, joined the lawmakers at Philadelphia International Airport to support H.R. 3488, legislation that prevents the opening of the Abu Dhabi customs facility. “A pre-clearance facility in Abu Dhabi will give a foreign, state-owned airline a competitive edge over U.S. airlines as customers traveling to America from the Middle East and Asia route themselves through Abu Dhabi to avoid the lines at customs in the United States,” said Congressman Meehan. “This policy steers travelers away from US carriers towards a foreign-owned airline, and we’re using American tax dollars to do it.A pre-clearance facility in Abu Dhabi will threaten American jobs and is little more than a taxpayer-funded handout to a foreign airline owned by the United Arab Emirates,” Meehan said. "This is another example of the executive branch making unilateral decisions without considering how their actions affect jobs and the American families those jobs support," Rep. Gerlach said. "I look forward to working with Congressman Meehan to stop this pre-clearance facility and protect American jobs." “The misguided Abu Dhabi deal is a prime example of our government providing foreign carriers with a competitive advantage over U.S. airlines in the marketplace,” said A4A President and CEO Nicholas E. Calio. “We applaud Rep. M…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/casey-calls-on-treasury-secretary-to-protect-pas-volunteer-firefighters-during-aca-implementation	Casey Calls on Treasury Secretary to Protect PA’s Volunteer Firefighters During ACA Implementation	2013-12-18	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	PA	Bob Casey	C001070	www.casey.senate.gov	legacy	Washington, DC- Today, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) announced that he, along with seven other senators, sent a letter to Treasury Secretary Jack Lew calling on the Administration to immediately address concerns raised by volunteer firefighters about coverage requirements under the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Recently at a hearing of the Senate Finance Committee Casey secured a commitment from the likely next Commissioner of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to quickly address these concerns upon confirmation. “It’s incumbent upon the Administration to quickly address the legitimate concerns that have been raised by volunteer firefighters across Pennsylvania,” Senator Casey said. “I’m pleased that the IRS’s likely next Commissioner committed to address this issue. This fix is something that the Administration can take care of right away and they should.” Some fire companies with over 50 volunteer firefighters have raised concerns about whether they are required to provide health insurance for these volunteers under the ACA. With already tight budgets, many volunteer fire companies are worried about the uncertainty of additional costs. The full text of Senator Casey’s letter can be seen below: The Honorable Jacob Lew Secretary Department of the Treasury Dear Secretary Lew: We write regarding the treatment of nominally compensated volunteer firefighters and emergency medical personnel under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) (P.L. 111-148). Many combination and volunteer fire departments are lacking the necessary guidance as to how they may be affected by the Employer Shared Responsibility Provision of the ACA. We believe that it is critical that volunteer firefighters and emergency medical personnel not be counted as employees as it relates to the ACA and any employer responsibilities to ensure the continuation of this important aspect of our public safety infrastructure. Approximately 780,000 volunteer firefighters serve in 20,000 all-volunteer and 7,000 combination career-volunt…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kelly.house.gov/press-release/rep-kelly-highlights-alternative-obamacare-fox-news%E2%80%99-your-world	Rep. Kelly Highlights Alternative to Obamacare on Fox News’ 'Your World'	2013-12-17	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	PA	Mike Kelly	K000376	kelly.house.gov	legacy	Rep. Kelly: “We’ve got a plan: it’s the American Health Care Reform Act.” CLICK TO WATCH WASHINGTON — Representative Mike Kelly (R-PA), a member of the House Ways and Means Committee, appeared live in-studio on Fox News Channel’s Your World with guest host Stuart Varney on Monday, December 16, 2013, to discuss the patient-centered alternative to the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare) that he is co-sponsoring known as the American Health Care Reform Act (H.R. 3121). More information about the plan can be found here. During the interview, Rep. Kelly directly addressed President Obama’s false charge that opponents of Obamacare have not offered any alternatives. He explained his alternate plan, and shared a recent real-life story detailing Obamacare’s harmful impact on his constituents. Interview highlights from Rep. Kelly: “The president… I think he thinks that if he says it often enough and long enough and loud enough, people will listen to him. But I do think now we realize the emperor has no clothes. And we’re looking at this and we’re saying, ‘This just isn’t working, Mr. President.’ And we’ve been going and talking to him, but he’s a tough guy to talk to, because if you’re not speaking his language, he doesn’t hear you.” “You know and I know this was never about health care for people — this is about insurance for people. There’s a huge difference. We have the best health care in the world. Now [our country’s most vulnerable] just have to have access to it and it has to be affordable. We’ve done things that make commonsense approaches to making it easier for everyday Americans to be able to go to sleep at night, put your head on the pillow, and know you’re covered. We’ve got you covered. And that’s what we’re there for. That’s our job. If we can’t do that, we shouldn’t be in Washington.” “Well we’ve got a plan: it’s the American Health Care Reform Act. You can go to Kelly.house.gov — now that’s a website you can get on – and you can read the information. It’s all there. It’s been there for a long time. W…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140221090824/http://fitzpatrick.house.gov/press-release/fitzpatrick-seeking-spring-2014-interns	Fitzpatrick Seeking Spring 2014 Interns	2013-12-17	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	PA	Michael Fitzpatrick	F000451	web.archive.org	legacy	LANGHORNE, PA – Congressman Mike Fitzpatrick (PA-8) is seeking enthusiastic and hard-working interns for the 2014 Spring Semester in both his Washington, D.C. and Langhorne District offices. Congressional internships are great opportunity for any students interested in the legislative process, public service and learning more about the inner-workings of our federal government. This internship provides the opportunity for college credits and professional experience to college students, graduate students and recent graduates. Bucks County, Montgomery County, or Pennsylvania ties are preferred. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, answering phone calls from constituents, organizing mail and faxes, leading constituents on tours of the Capitol Building, greeting visitors, and assisting the Congressman’s overall legislative efforts. If interested, please contact Congressman Fitzpatrick’s DC Intern Coordinator, Anna Marie DiMascia at 202-225-4276/annamarie.dimascia@mail.house.gov or Congressman Fitzpatrick’s Langhorne Intern Coordinator, Kelly McGinty at 215-579-8102/kelly.micginty@mail.house.gov ### Congressman Mike Fitzpatrick is serving his third term in the U.S. House of Representatives. He represents Pennsylvania’s 8th district which includes all of Bucks County as well as a portion of Montgomery County. He serves as the Vice Chairman of the House Financial Services Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140328084314/http://brady.house.gov/meehan-brady-back-federal-budget-deal-now-headead-senate	Meehan, Brady back federal budget deal now headed to the Senate	2013-12-17	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	PA	Robert Brady	B001227	web.archive.org	legacy	Pennsylvania’s two U.S. senators have different views about the latest budget deal. Sen. Pat Toomey, R-Pa., is one of the Republicans who has said he will vote against it; Sen. Bob Casey, D-Pa., will vote in favor of it. "I have maintained that any budget deal alternative to current law must preserve the taxpayer savings of existing law," Toomey said in a prepared statement. "The budget agreement does not accomplish this basic goal. "Instead, this deal establishes new, higher budget caps to increase spending. The deal purports to offset those increases. But it does so, in some cases, with gimmicks and to a large degree with higher revenues. "It is also unfortunate that this deal does not contain a provision that I have been calling for which would permanently end shutdowns and government by manufactured crisis." Casey stated in an email sent by his spokesman John Rizzo, "Republican and Democratic negotiators reached a deal on the budget that will prevent further damage to our economy from the indiscriminate cuts of the sequester and prevent another government shutdown. Neither side is happy with everything in the proposal but, in a year filled with far too much partisan fighting, this compromise is certainly a step in the right direction. "Important programs that help create jobs, start and grow small businesses, strengthen early childhood education and bolster medical research will face fewer cuts under this deal. It will help grow the Pennsylvania economy and provide two years of budget certainty, reducing partisan fights that only lead to short-term agreements." The House passed the budget bill in a 332-94 vote last Thursday. Delaware County’s two congressmen — Rep. Pat Meehan, R-7, of Upper Darby, and Rep. Bob Brady, D-1, of Philadelphia — voted in favor of the pact. "The bipartisan budget agreement passed by the House was not perfect, but it is a step in the right direction," Meehan stated in an email sent by his spokesman John Elizandro. "It reduces our deficit, even beyond what sequestration called for, an…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/budget-deal-contains-casey-backed-plan-to-crackdown-on-identity-theft	Budget Deal Contains Casey-Backed Plan to Crackdown on Identity Theft	2013-12-17	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	PA	Bob Casey	C001070	www.casey.senate.gov	legacy	Washington, DC- Today, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) announced that the recently announced budget agreement contains provisions to crackdown on identity theft. In 2012, Casey exposed lax federal rules that allowed identity thieves to obtain recently deceased Americans’ Social Security numbers for as little as $10. Identity thieves could obtain the Social Security numbers through the so called ‘Death Master List,’ which listed the personal information of the recently deceased, allowing would-be identity thieves to assume the identities of recently deceased persons and wreak havoc on their families. The budget agreement will empower the Secretary of Commerce to restrict access to the Death Master file and better protect the identities of recently deceased persons. “The passing on of a loved one is a significant hardship for a family to deal with that shouldn’t be compounded by the threat of identity theft,” Senator Casey said. “This is a significant step forward that will protect the identities of the recently deceased and will work to ensure that their families are not preyed upon by criminals.” Death Master File In 1980, SSA entered into a consent agreement to release death information following a Freedom of Information Act lawsuit. This information is available to purchase online through the Department of Commerce. The database contains much of the information needed to steal someone’s identity; it includes the full name, Social Security Number, date of birth, and date of death of deceased citizens and legal residents. The records of a single individual can be purchased for as little as $10, and the entire database is available for around $2,000. The information has important legitimate uses; the financial community, insurance companies, security firms, and state and local governments all use the death master file to match records and prevent identity theft. However it has also allowed criminals to file fraudulent tax returns. Section 203 of the budget would establish a program under which the Secret…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/casey-statement-following-cloture-vote-on-bipartisan-budget-agreement	Casey Statement following Cloture Vote on Bipartisan Budget Agreement	2013-12-17	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	PA	Bob Casey	C001070	www.casey.senate.gov	legacy	Washington, DC – - Today, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA), released the following statement on the Senate cloture vote on the budget agreement: “For the first time in four years, we are in a position to pass a budget agreement with strong bipartisan support in both the House and the Senate. The bill is not perfect and neither side is happy with everything in the agreement. However, in a year filled with far too much partisan fighting, this compromise is an important step forward. Programs that help create jobs in Pennsylvania such as Community Development Block Grants and NIH medical research will likely face fewer cuts under this deal. In addition, overall deficit reduction will be approximately $20 billion higher under this agreement than without it. Moreover, the bill will allow us avoid another damaging government shutdown. I am hopeful that the measure will pass the Senate and that the spirit of bipartisanship will continue into next year.” ### Press Contact John Rizzo 202-228-6367	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/casey-urges-italy-to-keep-philadelphias-italian-consulate-open	Casey Urges Italy to Keep Philadelphia’s Italian Consulate Open	2013-12-17	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	PA	Bob Casey	C001070	www.casey.senate.gov	legacy	Washington, DC- Today, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) announced that he has sent letters to Italian officials, especially President Napolitano and Foreign Minister Bonino, urging the country to keep its Philadelphia consulate open. Recently, Italy announced that it was considering closing the consulate. In his letter, Senator Casey cited the critical role that the city’s strong ties to Italy has played for the region’s economy through job creation and trade. In 2010, the region accounted for approximately $300 million in exports to Italy. Casey also cited Philadelphia’s large Italian-American population and the city’s role as an east coast hub of business, politics and culture in making the case. Senator Casey also spoke with the U.S. Ambassador to Italy, John Phillips, to emphasize the strong economic and cultural relationship. In addition to the region’s exports to Italy, Italy also benefits from exporting a large number of products into Pennsylvania. Recently, Israel considered closing its Philadelphia consulate but reversed course following a letter from Senator Casey. “From the first days of our nation’s founding through today, Philadelphia has remained one of our country’s preeminent cities,” Senator Casey said. “Having a consulate in Philadelphia has strengthened our historic ties to Italy and resulted in significant job creation and economic growth through trade. I’m urging Italy to reconsider closing its Philadelphia consulate so it can better maintain its robust economic relationship with Pennsylvania and the region.” The full text of Senator Casey’s letter can be seen below: His Excellency Giorgio Napolitano President of the Republic of Italy Dear President Napolitano: It has recently come to my attention that the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs is considering closure of its consulate in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. I am writing to respectfully urge you not to take this action. An active consulate in Philadelphia is vital to maintaining the strong, longstanding relationship between the pe…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/senate-passes-casey-toomey-measure-to-stop-epas-dangerous-regulation-of-fire-hydrants	Senate Passes Casey-Toomey Measure to Stop EPA's Dangerous Regulation of Fire Hydrants	2013-12-17	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	PA	Bob Casey	C001070	www.casey.senate.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Bob Casey (D-PA) and Pat Toomey (R-PA) successfully teamed up to pass bipartisan legislation to bolster fire safety and protect local governments from a dangerous and expensive new mandate. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently announced a policy that will require local governments to replace malfunctioning fire hydrants with new independently certified lead-free fire hydrants. This EPA regulation essentially makes it impossible for local governments to repair fire hydrants or replace them with existing inventory. Additionally, it is uncertain whether fire hydrants that meet the new criteria are actually available for purchase. Last week, the Senators introduced legislation (S. 1779) to exempt fire hydrants from the mandate. The Senate unanimously passed House legislation identical to S. 1779 today. “The notion that people drink from fire hydrants often enough to warrant this kind of regulation is ridiculous and in no way justifies the cost of replacing hydrants in every city and town in the country,” said Sen. Toomey. “It’s great news that the Senate and the House have both acknowledged this absurdity. The implementation of this EPA rule would have forced local governments to leave malfunctioning fire hydrants idle until adequate funds and products are available – which poses an undeniable threat to public safety. The passage of our bipartisan bill is a great victory for common sense, and I look forward to President Obama signing it into law.” “I’m pleased that the Senate has come together in a bipartisan fashion to pass this legislation which will allow our first responders to continue their lifesaving work without the fear of a new, burdensome regulation,” Sen. Casey said. “Passing this bill will help municipalities replace aging fire hydrants and prevent the EPA from moving forward with this unworkable regulation.” As a result of this rule, local governments across the country will be forced to leave malfunctioning fire hydrants out-of-service unt…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://cartwright.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/sherman-hills-task-force-announces-new-developments-and-next-steps	Sherman Hills Task Force Announces New Developments and Next Steps	2013-12-16	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	PA	Matt Cartwright	C001090	cartwright.house.gov	legacy	Scranton, PA – Today, U.S. Representative Matt Cartwright and the Sherman Hills Task Force held its first meeting at the Luzerne County Courthouse. Members of the task force participated in a briefing with Jane Vincent, Regional Director of the U.S. Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The briefing provided the task force with better insight into HUD processes and past experiences, as well as the road ahead concerning Sherman Hills. After the briefing task members discussed recent communications with Park Management, Inc. and next steps. In letters from Joel Gluck with Park Management the company announced that representatives from the company and their security consultants will be presenting their remediation plan to the Wilkes-Barre City Council at Tuesday’s Council workshop and at Thursday’s Council meeting. Among the details in the remediation plan, Park Management will propose making Sherman Hills a gated community, providing stronger fencing, installing a stronger surveillance system and providing armed guards. Task force members also announced two upcoming meetings. The first, set to happen during the week of January 20th, will be a private meeting with residents of the Sherman Hills Complex. The task force hopes that this private setting will allow residents to share their insight into the problems facing the troubled complex. The task force also announced a public hearing to take place the week of February 17th which will include a set of witnesses that both defines problems and suggests solutions. The task force hopes to receive Park Management’s remediation plan from HUD at the beginning of the New Year. The task force was formed in response to a recent report by HUD, which has paid Sherman Hills $1.7 million this year to provide low-income housing at the 344-unit complex. Members of the Task Force are Congressman Matt Cartwright (PA-17); Tom Leighton, Mayor, Wilkes-Barre; John Yudichak, State Senator (PA-14); Eddie Pashinski, State Representative (PA-121); Bill Barrett, Chairperson, Wilkes-Barr…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://cartwright.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/the-affordable-care-act-is-making-sure-premium-dollars-work-for	The Affordable Care Act Is Making Sure Premium Dollars Work for Consumers, Not Just Insurance Companies	2013-12-16	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	PA	Matt Cartwright	C001090	cartwright.house.gov	legacy	Scranton, PA – Today, U.S. Representative Matt Cartwright highlighted the tough new rules under the Affordable Care Act that ensure that Americans receive value for their premium dollars. If insurance companies don’t live up to the new standards established by the ACA, insurers have to send consumers a rebate. In 2013, approximately 123,600 consumers in Pennsylvania received an average rebate of approximately $77 per family. “Helping middle class families take advantage of the benefits of the health care law like making sure Pennsylvanians’ premium dollars work for them and not just insurance companies should be a top priority for lawmakers in Washington,” said Cartwright Because of the health care law, insurance companies must spend at least 80% (85% in the large group market) of premiums on medical care and efforts to improve the quality of care, instead of things like overhead and profits. If they don’t, insurers have to send consumers a rebate to meet this threshold. In 2012, nearly 80 million consumers saved $3.4 billion upfront on their premiums because of this rule and other Affordable Care Act programs. And because of this rule, insurers sent 8.5 million consumers an average rebate of approximately $100 per family this year. Additionally, while insurance companies still set premium rates today, the health care law requires insurance companies to publicly post and justify any proposed rate increase of 10 percent or more. Across the country, insurers are withdrawing or decreasing proposed rate hikes, benefitting families as well the economy.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://cartwright.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/us-congressmen-matt-cartwright-and-blake-farenthold-introduce-bipartisan	U.S. Congressmen Matt Cartwright and Blake Farenthold Introduce Bipartisan Servicemembers and Veterans Prescription Drug Safety Act of 2013	2013-12-16	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	PA	Matt Cartwright	C001090	cartwright.house.gov	legacy	Washington – Last week, U.S. Congressmen Matt Cartwright (D-PA-17) and Blake Farenthold (R-TX-27) introduced H.R. 3714, the bipartisan Servicemembers and Veterans Prescription Drug Safety Act, which aims to decrease accidental drug overdoses among servicemembers and veterans by implementing prescription drug take-back programs. Companion legislation has been introduced in the Senate by Senators Susan Collins (R-ME) and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT). According to the Wall Street Journal, the Department of Veterans Affairs’ (VA) prescription rate for opioids has risen by 287 percent between 1999 and 2012. Consequently, VA-enrolled veterans have a drug overdose rate double that of the civilian population. There is substantial evidence that prescription drug abuse is a major contributing factor in the deaths of numerous servicemembers and veterans. Drug take-back programs have been found to substantially decrease accidental overdose. At present, only the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) can authorize entities to collect and properly dispose of prescription drugs from ultimate users. Neither the DoD nor VA is permitted to conduct prescription drug take-back programs at their pharmacies. Thus, a service member or veteran is unable to return unused medications to the DoD or VA facility that prescribed the medications in the first place. This legislation would permit the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Veteran Affairs to implement prescription drug take-back programs for servicemembers, veterans, and their families at DoD and VA pharmacies. According to VA, there were nearly 1 million veterans living in Pennsylvania as of September 2012. There are also 10 VA medical centers in the commonwealth including the Wilkes-Barre VA Medical Center. Furthermore, approximately 36 percent of Tobyhanna employees are veterans. “I am proud to work with Rep. Farenthold on this important legislation. The suicide rate amongst our nation’s veterans is alarming and completely unacceptable. We have a responsibility to…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140221033223/http://perry.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/perry-legislation-demands-answers-regarding-nsa-domestic-surveillance	Perry Legislation Demands Answers Regarding NSA Domestic Surveillance Programs	2013-12-16	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	PA	Scott Perry	P000605	web.archive.org	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Scott Perry recently introduced legislation, the NSA Transparency Act (H.R. 3756), to require this and future Administrations to respond to unanswered questions from lawmakers about the domestic surveillance programs that have collected a myriad of communications data on American citizens. The bill also would make public decisions by the FISA Court that approve data collection under the National Surveillance Act (NSA) programs. In the wake of numerous leaked NSA privacy violations, we must restore public trust and ensure accountability from the NSA for these programs. “One of my primary responsibilities is to ensure that the privacy and civil liberties of every American guaranteed in the Constitution remain protected”, said Rep. Perry. “This bill improves the process by ensuring that Congress has the proper information necessary to carry out its oversight role. We must ensure that law-abiding Americans are not needlessly harmed by over- intrusive government surveillance programs. Our number one priority must be to ensure that Americans are safe, but not at the cost of violating the founding principles that make this country great. The NSA Transparency Act will help safeguard the proper balance between protecting our civil liberties while maintaining our national security.” Rep. Perry previously supported other bi-partisan legislation to increase oversight of domestic surveillance programs. The NSA Transparency Act is based upon Democrat sponsored legislation in the Senate to increase oversight and accountability over domestic surveillance programs. Specifically, the NSA Transparency Act requires the present and future Administrations to publicly disclose: if the FISA Court issues a decision determining that U.S. government activities have violated the Constitution; when the NSA began bulk collection of communication records of a large number of American citizens; whether the NSA ever collected location data on innocent Americans using cellular phone technology; and wh…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140221090917/http://fitzpatrick.house.gov/press-release/fitzpatrick-judge%E2%80%99s-ruling-address%E2%80%99-nsa%E2%80%99s-constitutional-concerns	Fitzpatrick: Judge’s Ruling Address’ NSA’s Constitutional Concerns	2013-12-16	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	PA	Michael Fitzpatrick	F000451	web.archive.org	legacy	LANGHORNE, PA – Congressman Mike Fitzpatrick (PA-8) released the following statement Monday regarding a federal judge’s ruling that the National Security Agency’s (NSA) phone surveillance program is “likely unconstitutional” under the Fourth Amendment: Today’s ruling addressing the concerns I’ve expressed about the constitutionality of the NSA’s program in tracking and spying on law abiding Americans since the revelations this summer, and before. The Fourth Amendment to the Constitution ensures citizens the right to be ‘secure in their persons, houses papers and effects…’ – a right that is obviously being infringed on by the agency’s dragnet data collection. This ruling is a step in the right direction when it comes to addressing these concerns. I will monitor this situation closely. Americans deserve common sense reforms to the agency and its practices that empower law enforcement while still protecting the Constitutional rights of all people. Now, more than ever, we need a vote on the bipartisan, bicameral ‘USA Freedom Act’. Fitzpatrick is a co-sponsor of the bipartisan USA Freedom Act [H.R. 3361] and has introduced legislation to defund the parts of the agency that overstep their legal and Constitutional boundaries. Read more about today’s ruling HERE ### Congressman Mike Fitzpatrick is serving his third term in the U.S. House of Representatives. He represents Pennsylvania’s 8th district which includes all of Bucks County as well as a portion of Montgomery County. He serves as the Vice Chairman of the House Financial Services Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/casey-calls-for-extension-of-unemployment-insurance	Casey Calls for Extension of Unemployment Insurance	2013-12-16	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	PA	Bob Casey	C001070	www.casey.senate.gov	legacy	Philadelphia PA- Today, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) called for an extension of unemployment insurance. Senator Casey was joined by Philadelphians who are set to see their benefits expire at the end of this month to push for the extension. The Senate is set to take a vote in early January yet the House of Representatives still hasn’t scheduled a vote. Casey called on both Houses to vote on and pass an extension of unemployment benefits that will boost the economy and aid those looking for work. “Extending unemployment insurance will help those looking for work and produce growth in the economy,” Senator Casey said. “The pace of job growth has increased in the last few months but there are still far too many Pennsylvanians looking for work. Extending unemployment insurance will help those actively seeking work and provide a jolt to GDP as we move into the new year. I’m pleased the Senate is set to vote on this issue soon and I’m calling on both Houses of Congress to take up and pass this legislation.” The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) has found that extending unemployment insurance will increase GDP while helping Americans find work. The Economic Policy Institute (EPI) recently released a report detailing the economic impact of failing to continue UI through 2014. The EPI analysis found that 310,000 jobs and $37.8 billion of economic activity would be lost if UI expires. The federal Emergency Unemployment Compensation (EUC) program was first enacted in June 2008, when the national unemployment rate stood at 5.6 percent. The EUC program is scheduled to expire at the end of 2013, with the last payable week ending on December 28th. After changes made to the EUC program in early 2012, there is no longer any phase-out for the program, so that every individual now receiving these benefits will lose them during the same week. The Department of Labor estimates that the expiration of the EUC program would cut off unemployment benefits to approximately 1.3 million jobless Americans on December 28th. The percentage…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kelly.house.gov/press-release/rep-kelly-statement-bipartisan-budget-act	Rep. Kelly Statement on Bipartisan Budget Act	2013-12-13	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	PA	Mike Kelly	K000376	kelly.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON — Representative Mike Kelly (R-PA), a member of the House Ways and Means Committee, issued the following statement yesterday evening in support of the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013. Further details about the agreement can be found here. The House of Representatives passed the legislation by 332-94. “During my short time serving in Congress, I am glad to have witnessed our fiscal focus shift from how much to spend to how much to cut. While today’s bill did not include everything I want, it does move the debate in the right direction. This agreement reduces the deficit by $23 billion, it includes concrete cost-saving measures such as pension reform, and it does so without raising any taxes on anyone. Most importantly, this agreement takes the power of the purse out of the hands of President Obama – which is where every continuing resolution has put it – and back into the hands of the House where it belongs. These are important accomplishments that cannot be overlooked. With this agreement in place, I look forward to carrying on the fight for serious debt and deficit reduction in the new year and making sure the fiscal debate in Washington keeps moving in the proper direction.” ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://thompson.house.gov/press-release/thompson-amendment-included-national-defense-policy-act-measure-headed-senate	Thompson Amendment Included in National Defense Policy Act; Measure Headed for Senate Consideration Next Week	2013-12-13	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	PA	Glenn Thompson	T000467	thompson.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the U.S. House passed a series of bills with bipartisan support, including H.R. 3304, the National Defense Authorization Act of 2014, by a vote of 350-69, and H. J. Res. 59, a House-Senate budget agreement that sets overall spending for Fiscal Years 2014 and 2015, by a vote of 332-94. U.S. Representative Glenn ‘GT’ Thompson (PA-5) voted to support both measures. Statement on H.R. 3304: “The National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2014 is long overdue, despite the House passing its version during the Summer. This bill affords the military some certainty about policy moving forward and offers the brave men and women of our military the resources to safely fulfill their missions and the support they deserve upon return from service.” Background: H.R. 3304 includes a Thompson-sponsored amendment dealing with the Transitional Assistance Management Program (TAMP) which offers 180 days of health insurance coverage for service members transitioning into civilian life. The amendment extends TAMP by an additional 180 days for all services rendered through telemedicine, to ensure that coverage is available especially for those with Post Traumatic Stress, symptoms of which often do not appear until 8 to 10 months following deployment. The amendment builds on Thompson’s 2011 STEP Act, now Public Law 112-81, Section 713, which expanded service member health care services and the use of telemedicine at the Department of Defense (DoD). Statement on H. J. Res. 59: “We were able to prevent the Senate’s push for new taxes and spending increases and continue my commitment to deficit reduction. While far from perfect, this bill replaces the most economically harmful cuts imposed by the sequester with smarter spending reforms that will produce greater deficit reduction over the long-term. The bill will avoid harmful cuts to our military and protects our fragile economy.” Background: H.J.Res.59 constitutes a budget agreement reached between the House and Senate for Fiscal Years 2014 a…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://toomey.senate.gov?p=news&id=1225	Sen. Pat Toomey's E-Update [press_release]	2013-12-13	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	PA	Patrick Toomey	T000461	toomey.senate.gov	legacy	Protecting Children From Sexual Predators Watch WBRE's coverage of my visit to Scranton's Children's Advocacy Center I have introduced bipartisan legislation to protect America's children from sexual and violent predators in the classroom. My bill requires schools to perform background checks on all new and existing employees, and bans schools from helping a predator find a new teaching job. It also ends the practice of schools quietly passing predators on to other jobs and other innocent children. Learn more about my bill to protect children from sexual and violent predators. As a father of three young children, I cannot imagine the suffering of a parent whose child is sexually assaulted. No family should endure such a tragedy. I am proud that we have come together - across party lines and across the nation - to protect our kids. I would particularly like to thank Democratic State Senator Anthony Hardy Williams and Republican Congressman Mike Fitzpatrick for their bipartisan leadership on this issue. State Senator Anthony Hardy Williams is the prime sponsor of a similar bill, which passed the Pennsylvania State Senate unanimously. As Sen. Williams says, "Sen. Toomey and I may disagree on approaches and even political philosophy on some issues, but some things are beyond partisan divides. The safety and welfare of our children, all of our children, is a universal value on which we can and do agree." I am grateful for his support, and I am hopeful that we can diminish dramatically instances of this awful crime in our state and around the country. Read the Scranton Times-Tribune story. Keeping The EPA Off The Backs Of Our Firefighters The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is taking excessive government regulation to new levels. A recent agency rule will force local governments across the country to leave malfunctioning fire hydrants out-of-service until new, lead-free fire hydrants can be purchased and installed. This regulation essentially makes it impossible for local governments to repair these …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://toomey.senate.gov?p=news&id=1226	Sen. Toomey: No On Budget Deal [press_release]	2013-12-13	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	PA	Patrick Toomey	T000461	toomey.senate.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Pat Toomey (R-Pa.) released the following statement about the budget agreement that passed the House last night. "The budget deal must be considered in comparison to existing law which was signed by President Obama in 2011 and established specific spending limits. These bipartisan spending caps are working. In 2012 and 2013, we reduced government spending two years in a row - for the first time since just after the Korean War - and lowered our deficits substantially. "I have maintained that any budget deal alternative to current law must preserve the taxpayer savings of existing law. The budget agreement does not accomplish this basic goal. "Instead, this deal establishes new, higher budget caps to increase spending. The deal purports to offset those increases. But it does so, in some cases, with gimmicks and to a large degree with higher revenues. "It is also unfortunate that this deal does not contain a provision that I have been calling for which would permanently end shutdowns and government by manufactured crisis. "Regardless of one's position on this budget agreement, it is clear that Washington is still ignoring the unsustainable spending trajectory that remains a drag on our economy and future generations. I hope that Congress will get to work to put our fiscal house in order."	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140221091008/http://fitzpatrick.house.gov/press-release/fitzpatrick-budget-deal-step-right-direction	Fitzpatrick: Budget Deal is a Step in the Right Direction	2013-12-13	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	PA	Michael Fitzpatrick	F000451	web.archive.org	legacy	Dec 12, 2013 WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Mike Fitzpatrick (PA-8) released the following statement Thursday night regarding the passage (332-94) of the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 [H.J.Res. 59]: The ‘Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013’ worked out by the Democratic Senate Budget Chair and the Republican House Budget Chair is a step in the right direction toward fiscal normalcy and regular order. By putting an end to governance by crisis when it comes to budgeting, we can begin to work together to find real, common sense reforms to the problems that all Americans face. The budget compromise reduces the federal deficit by $23 billion more than under the sequester without raising taxes while providing $63 billion in sequester relief over the next two years. More details about the budget can be found HERE ### Congressman Mike Fitzpatrick is serving his third term in the U.S. House of Representatives. He represents Pennsylvania’s 8th district which includes all of Bucks County as well as a portion of Montgomery County. He serves as the Vice Chairman of the House Financial Services Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140309084959/http://rothfus.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=25&itemid=632	Policy Member Spotlight: Rep. Keith Rothfus (R-PA) – H.R. 2453, The Medicare Beneficiary Preservation of Choice Act	2013-12-13	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	PA	Keith Rothfus	R000598	web.archive.org	legacy	Policy Member Spotlight: Rep. Keith Rothfus (R-PA) – H.R. 2453, The Medicare Beneficiary Preservation of Choice Act H.R. 2453, the Medicare Beneficiary Preservation of Choice Act, introduced by Rep. Keith Rothfus (R-PA), restores the 90-day Medicare Advantage open enrollment period from January 1 to March 31. The bill currently has 13 cosponsors. What is Medicare Advantage? Medicare Part C, also known as Medicare Advantage (MA), provides private plan options to Medicare-eligible beneficiaries. Approximately 14.8 million individuals, 28 percent of all Medicare beneficiaries, are enrolled in MA plans, which include health maintenance organizations, preferred provider organizations, private-fee-for-service plans, and special needs plans.[1] In the MA program, payments are made to private plans on behalf of beneficiaries from both the Health Insurance Trust Fund (HI) and the Supplemental Medical Insurance (SMI) fund.[2] In 2012, approximately $136 billion from both the HI and SMI funds was directed toward MA plans.[3] Enrollment in MA plans has grown over the years from 1.3 million in 1985 to 14.8 million in 2013.[4] Studies have identified the MA program as more effective than the traditional fee for service,[5] particularly among those individuals with chronic conditions and those individuals who reside in rural areas.[6] What is the Problem? Prior to 2011, in addition to the general enrollment period for all Medicare plans from October 15 until December 7, Medicare beneficiaries were able to switch between MA plans during a 90-day open enrollment period from January 1 through March 31.[7] In 2011, CMS, through regulations, replaced the second enrollment with an annual 45-day disenrollment period.[9] During this period, seniors are not permitted to switch MA plans; instead they are required either to stay in their current plan or switch back to traditional Medicare plans (Part A and Part B). MA beneficiaries may switch between MA plans during the October 15th-December 7th Annual Open Enrollment Pe…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140328084449/http://brady.house.gov/report-shows-animal-care-severely-lacking-smithsonian-national-zoo	Report shows animal care 'severely lacking' at Smithsonian National Zoo	2013-12-13	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	PA	Robert Brady	B001227	web.archive.org	legacy	Washington (CNN) – A blistering internal report released this week is revealing big problems at the National Zoo and prompting a Congressional review. On Wednesday, an endangered horse rammed into a fence inside its barn. A gazelle and an antelope-like animal broke their necks the same way. And a hog died from possible malnutrition. Last month a zebra severely injured an animal keeper. Earlier this year Rusty the red panda got out, and a vulture escaped its enclosure. Both were recaptured. "You don't hear this happening at zoos across the country. It certainly shouldn't be happening here at our National Zoo," Cathy Liss, president of the Animal Welfare Institute, said. A safety inspector with the zoo said human error was the cause of the zebra attack, according to CNN affiliate WJLA. Gates were not properly closed between the zebra's stall and the yard where the keeper was working, leading the two to be in the same enclosure. A nearby gazelle was apparently spooked by the attack and ran into a fence, breaking its neck. An internal investigation of the Cheetah Conservation Station, which houses cheetahs and other African savanna animals, found "animal care and overall organization, accountability, follow-up and communication are severely lacking." But Pamela Baker-Masson, a spokesperson for the National Zoo, told CNN, "We never compromise safety and well-being of animals." Officials point out that the zoo was again accredited in September by the Association for Zoos and Aquariums "after an extensive and rigorous review." As for the deaths or escapes of the animals, officials say they've taken steps to prevent repeat episodes. The budget may also be partly to blame. The zoo does not charge admission, and Congress has cut $2 million over the past few years. "This is where we look at ourselves very carefully, and we have to review what resources are available," Baker-Masson said. A spokesperson for Ranking Member of the House Administration Committee Robert Brady said the Congressman has scheduled a briefing with Sm…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/blog/the-377th-birthday-of-the-national-guard	The 377th Birthday of the National Guard	2013-12-13	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	PA	Bob Casey	C001070	www.casey.senate.gov	legacy	Friday, December 13, 2013 The 377th Birthday of the National Guard by Bob Casey The National Guard celebrates its 377th birthday today. The National Guard traces its history back to a direct declaration of the Massachusetts Bay Colony on December 13, 1636. This declaration formed a group of Citizen-Soldiers, requiring all physically able men between 16 and 60 to serve in the militia whenever they were needed. Other colonies would follow in establishing their own defense forces. Though Pennsylvania’s Citizen-Soldier defense force would not form for over another hundred years, its history is no less special. In 1747, Benjamin Franklin would lead others Philadelphians in the creation of the “Associators.” The idea caught on in neighboring areas within Pennsylvania and was soon replicated throughout the Commonwealth. From its founding in 1747, through the Revolution, to today’s commitment in Afghanistan, the Pennsylvania National Guard has upheld its motto, “Civilian in peace. Soldier in war.” Today, Pennsylvania has the third largest National Guard in the nation. While the wars have changed, the commitment of these Citizen-Soldiers to answer the call of duty, in their own community, or on the other side of the world, has remained constant. Join me today in wishing the National Guard a “happy birthday!” I am truly honored to represent a state with such a rich tradition and dedication to its own community and to national service. Tags: National Guard	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://cartwright.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/due-to-the-affordable-care-act-up-to-17-million-children-can-no-longer	Due to the Affordable Care Act, Up to 17 Million Children Can No Longer Be Denied Health Coverage for Having A Pre-Existing Condition	2013-12-12	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	PA	Matt Cartwright	C001090	cartwright.house.gov	legacy	Washington – Today, U.S. Representative Matt Cartwright released figures highlighting the number of children in Pennsylvania with pre-existing conditions who, thanks to the Affordable Care Act, are being protected from discrimination based on their health. Because of the health care law, since 2010, insurance companies have been prohibited from denying health coverage for the up to 17 million children – including up to 657,000 in Pennsylvania – with pre-existing conditions such as cancer, asthma, or diabetes. And beginning in January 2014, under the Affordable Care Act, this protection will extend to adults as well. “Prior to the Affordable Care Act, in the vast majority of states, insurance companies in the individual and small group markets could deny coverage, charge higher premiums, and/or limit benefits to individuals based on pre-existing conditions,” said Cartwright. “This is great news and beginning in January 2014, this protection will extend to adults, too.” Helping middle class families take advantage of the benefits of the health care law like the security of affordable health care coverage for children with pre-existing conditions should be a top priority for lawmakers in Washington. Yet instead of working to fix the law, House Republicans have voted to repeal the health care law more than 40 times, even shutting down the government to prevent new benefits like assured coverage for children with pre-existing conditions, taking away peace of mind for these millions of children and their parents – including 657,000 in Pennsylvania.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://doyle.house.gov/press-release/doyle-votes-bipartisan-budget-compromise	Doyle Votes for Bipartisan Budget Compromise	2013-12-12	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	PA	Mike Doyle	D000482	doyle.house.gov	legacy	Washington, DC – U.S. Representative Mike Doyle released the following statement after the House of Representatives approved a federal budget for Fiscal Year 2014 by a vote of 332 to 94. “I voted in favor of this compromise budget because I believe it is a small but important step in the right direction. As someone who never supported the sequester, I was pleased that this budget provides a significant reduction in sequestration levels for 2014 and 2015. “Much work remains to be done. I believe the nation would be best served by eliminating the sequester completely, for example, and I strongly believe that Congress should enact an extension of federal emergency unemployment insurance program as soon as possible in order to help the millions of Americans who are still unemployed. “I look forward to working with my colleagues in Congress to replace the sequester, get this economy moving, and create more family-supporting jobs.” ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://shuster.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=49&itemid=528	Shuster Slashes Government Waste and Supports our Soldiers with Vote to Pass National Defense Authorization Act	2013-12-12	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	PA	Bill Shuster	S001154	shuster.house.gov	legacy	Washington – Today, with Congressman Bill Shuster’s support, the House overwhelmingly passed the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which authorizes funds for the Department of Defense for Fiscal Year 2014, by a vote of 350-69. This comprehensive bill maintains a strong national defense while simultaneously cutting government waste and eliminating unnecessary programs. “This is an important piece of legislation not only because it provides crucial support for American soldiers, but because it wastes less of the taxpayers’ money on programs we don’t need,” says Shuster. “In a time when we face numerous emerging threats and the continued danger of international terrorism, this bill is gives our brave men and women in uniform the resources they need to continue protecting our nation. This is a defense bill for the 21st Century, and provides the tools needed to continue keeping America safe.” In June, the House passed its version of the National Defense Authorization Act, drafted by the House Armed Services Committee. Today’s bill is the product of an agreement reached with the Senate Armed Services Committee to incorporate their version of the bill, and showcases the deep level of bipartisan support for this legislation to support our military. The National Defense Authorization Act improves the ability of the armed forces to counter both traditional and non-traditional threats alike by restoring military readiness in a fiscally responsible way. The bill authorizes $552.1 billion in spending for national defense as well as an additional $80.7 billion for Overseas Contingency Operations. This is in full compliance with the overall sequester cap of $967 billion for discretionary funding, and saves $7.8 billion on war spending alone. Additionally, FY14 NDAA ensures that we continue to honor those who have already served their country: our veterans. It includes provisions for education and civilian certification, protects the GI Bill, and addresses the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) claims backlog by r…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://toomey.senate.gov?p=news&id=1220	Toomey Working To Exempt Volunteer First Responders From Obamacare [press_release]	2013-12-12	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	PA	Patrick Toomey	T000461	toomey.senate.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON D.C. -- U.S. Senator Pat Toomey (R-Pa.) and Sens. Mark R. Warner (D-Va.), Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.), Susan Collins (R-Maine), and Angus King (I-Maine) are spearheading a bipartisan effort to ensure volunteer firefighters and first responders can continue protecting communities that rely on them. The Protect Volunteer Firefighters and Emergency Responders Act amends the President's health care law to make it clear that these volunteers are not required to be counted as full-time equivalent employees (FTEs), which would trigger the onerous employer mandate. In most cases, volunteer first responders maintain other full-time employment and choose to volunteer. Not surprisingly, emergency response agencies which rely almost entirely on volunteer assistance do not have the resources to provide pay for benefits. Additionally, volunteer first responders do not expect to receive compensation or health coverage as a result of their volunteer public service. "From small cities to rural communities - Pennsylvania has the largest number of volunteer fire departments in the country," said Sen. Toomey. "These departments play a crucial role in protecting Pennsylvanians each and every day. This bipartisan legislation will protect these fire departments from one of the devastating consequences of Obamacare. Pennsylvania is fortunate to have so many dedicated volunteers willing to risk their lives for their fellow citizens and the least we can do is help them keep their doors open." Approximately 750,000 volunteer firefighters serve in 20,000 all-volunteer and 5,000 combination career-volunteer fire departments throughout the United States. Pennsylvania is home to over 2,000 fire departments that rely mostly or entirely on volunteers. State Sen. Lisa Baker and State Rep. Steve Barrar, who serve as the chairmen of the Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committees in the Pennsylvania General Assembly, offered their full support: "We must ensure that our volunteer firefighters and first responders are able to …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://toomey.senate.gov?p=news&id=1221	Sens. Toomey, Carper, Coburn, Brown Lead Bipartisan Effort To Curb Prescription Drug Abuse [press_release]	2013-12-12	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	PA	Patrick Toomey	T000461	toomey.senate.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. - Two Delaware Valley Senators are working curb Medicare fraud and the abuse of prescription drugs. U.S. Senators Pat Toomey (R-Pa.) and Tom Carper (D-Del.) are teaming with long-time leaders on the issue Tom Coburn, MD (R-Okla.), and Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio) to introduce an amendment in the Senate Finance Committee. Their bipartisan amendment requires the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to take steps to curb the abuse of prescription drugs. Sen. Toomey, who recently heard from residents in Delaware County, Pa. about prescription drug abuse said, "Unfortunately, abuse or misuse of prescription drugs is a growing problem. Young or old, some patients begin to take medicines in ways other than what their doctor prescribed. This can lead to not only addiction but to other medical problems. Our legislation would make it easier to educate patients on these dangers and to detect and prevent waste and fraud of the taxpayer dollars that undergird Medicare." "Curbing prescription drug fraud and abuse will require a team effort involving Medicare officials, law enforcement, the Medicare prescription drug plans, pharmacies and doctors, and the beneficiaries themselves. I am proud to join Senators Toomey and Brown in this amendment and am grateful to Dr. Coburn for his work with us on this important issue. This amendment would take important next steps in preventing waste and fraud in the Medicare prescription drug program," said Sen. Carper. "Every dollar wasted through Medicare prescription drug abuse or fraud is one dollar less for our seniors and the disabled who depend on these life-saving programs. These safeguards are important not only to protect taxpayer money, but to avoid the diversion of drugs that harm our communities." "I support Senator Toomey and my colleague's amendment that will give the Medicare program a new tool to help curb prescription drug abuse and diversion," said Dr. Coburn. "Their amendment would allow Medicare plans to adopt practices already used in Medicaid pla…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://toomey.senate.gov?p=news&id=1222	Sen. Toomey?s Legislation Would Bring Down Cost Of Food, Gas [press_release]	2013-12-12	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	PA	Patrick Toomey	T000461	toomey.senate.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Pat Toomey (R-Pa.) is working to bring down the cost of food and gasoline. In his latest step to protect consumers and employers from wasteful mandates, Sen. Toomey is introducing bipartisan legislation that would eliminate the corn ethanol mandate from the renewable fuel standard (RFS) that refiners must meet when manufacturing gasoline. In the past, corn ethanol has comprised nearly 75 percent of the total RFS mandate. Corn ethanol poses a whole host of problems for the environment and consumers. Multiple studies, including ones conducted by Stanford University and the National Academy of Sciences, have found that increased ethanol use is detrimental to air quality. AAA warns that it has the potential to damage car engines and even the EPA has labeled the fuel as "corrosive". "Since 2005, fuel suppliers like those in Trainer and Philadelphia have been forced to blend millions of gallons of biofuels -- notably corn ethanol -- into the nation's gasoline supplies," said Senator Toomey. "This flawed central planning harms the viability of good paying jobs, drives up gas prices, increases food costs, and harms the environment. This is the government using corporate welfare to shower money on a favored industry and send the bill to the general public. Labor leaders, business, and environmental groups have pushed back against this harmful regulatory regime. It's time to repeal the requirement that directs more corn in our gas tank at the expense of the hardworking men and women of Pennsylvania." Sen. Toomey's legislation is also sponsored by Sens. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) and Tom Coburn (R-Okla.). "We applaud Sen. Toomey's leadership in addressing the impacts of this misguided mandate on consumers and the environment," said Scott Faber, Senior Vice President of Government Affairs, Environmental Working Group." The legislation has been endorsed by the following groups: ActionAid USA American Bakers Association American Frozen Food Institute American Meat Institute American Sp…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://dent.house.gov/index.cfm?p=PressReleases&ContentRecord_id=0B8579B1-A6AB-441B-BC45-C96AFFBD4A1F	Dent Votes for Commonsense Bipartisan Budget Agreement	2013-12-12	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	PA	Charlie Dent	D000604	dent.house.gov	legacy	Congressman Charlie Dent (PA-15th) joined a large bipartisan group of House members to pass the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 this evening. 169 Republicans joined 163 Democrats in supporting the bill that passed 332 to 94. The budget sets discretionary spending at $1.012 trillion for this fiscal year. The agreement provides $63 billion in sequester relief between defense and non-defense programs. At the same time, it reduces the debt by an additional $23 billion beyond the levels set in the Sequester. “Thursday night the House of Representatives responded to the demands of the American people. We rallied behind a reasonable agreement in a bipartisan manner and have shown a willingness to constructively govern the country,” said Congressman Dent. Dent expressed satisfaction that the budget agreement largely eliminates the potential threat of another looming government shutdown –not only this year – but next year as well. “People are tired of Congress staggering from one blatantly manufactured crisis to the next. They want their elected representatives to act like grown-ups and do the job they were elected to do, which is to keep the government functioning,” Dent observed. “This is important because certainty, predictability and stability are essential elements to foster an environment conducive to economic growth and job creation,” he added. Congressman Dent also noted that the budget bill contains a three month “Doc Fix,” ensuring that Medicare patients will continue to be able to see their physicians. The measure prevents a 20.1% cut in Medicare reimbursements to physicians and replaces it with a half percent increase. “This is not a grand bargain, but it is an important agreement,” Dent said. “I hope the bill’s passage signals that leaders in Washington have recognized the need to value practicality, commonsense and a respect for our duty to govern.” ### Press Contact: Shawn Millan (610) 770-3490	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140221033251/http://perry.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/statement-on-budget-agreement	Statement on Budget Agreement	2013-12-12	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	PA	Scott Perry	P000605	web.archive.org	legacy	“The budget before the U.S. House today isn’t the agreement I would’ve drafted. Washington, once again, is avoiding the tough decisions necessary to reduce our unsustainable $17 trillion debt and strengthen the economy for all Americans. But in a divided government, you don’t get everything you want. Americans expect their elected officials to work together and find compromise, and I’ve never pretended to have a monopoly on good ideas. We have a chance to take a small step forward on this critical issue — and, simply, we must take it. This bill will reduce the deficit by $23 billion and guarantees that seniors won’t lose access to their doctors. It controls spending in a smarter way than the sequester by eliminating waste - like paying Medicaid bills that dead-beat parents should be paying and sending unemployment checks to criminals. It also cuts corporate welfare and, however small, begins to reform mandatory spending. It continues the progress made by House Republicans in changing the conversation to how Washington must live within its means, not how families should pay more. I agree with Fiscal Commission co-chairs Alan Simpson and Erskine Bowles when they say, “the small reforms in this agreement do not address the real long-term drivers of our debt, including the growth of health care entitlement programs and Social Security's funding shortfall.” Although we’re glad to show that Congress can, indeed, work together, the fundamental issues remain unchanged: we’re nearly $17 trillion in debt and in the process of bankrupting programs like Social Security and Medicare. My first bill in Congress was a balanced budget amendment, I voted for the FY2014 budget that balances in 10 years and I supported other common-sense solutions to reform and sustain such vital programs. We can't keep spending money we don't have. Democrats and Republicans finally must end the process of kicking these difficult issues down the road for someone else to deal with. I’ll continue to work with my colleagues to do so and encourage al…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140221091045/http://fitzpatrick.house.gov/press-release/fitzpatrick-house-vote-ensure-kids-first-research	Fitzpatrick, House Vote to Ensure Kids First Research	2013-12-12	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	PA	Michael Fitzpatrick	F000451	web.archive.org	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Mike Fitzpatrick (PA-8) joined with a bipartisan majority in the House Wednesday to pass (295-103) the Gabriella Miller Kids First Research Act [H.R. 2019]. The bill – of which Fitzpatrick is a co-sponsor - prioritizes taxpayer funding for scientific research of pediatric diseases and disorders such as cancer and autism by eliminating taxpayer funding for the Republican and Democratic national conventions. “Ask any parent – our kids always come first. So it only makes sense that Washington put the children of our nation ahead of partisan politics when it comes to utilizing taxpayer dollars,” said Fitzpatrick following the bill’s passage. “This bill simply puts the critical need of increasing research funding for pediatric diseases ahead of election politics.” The Gabriella Miller Kids First Research Act is named after Gabriella Miller – a 10-year old diagnosed with brain cancer last fall and who passed away in October before she could see the bill passed. “As a member of the Autism Caucus, the chance to prioritize federal dollars for critical research for Autism and those families living with it was a great opportunity,” continued Fitzpatrick. “Ensuring the best for our children – especially those with pediatric disorders – is vital for the continued success of our nation. I’m heartened that this Congress could come together and working on their behalf.” “School aged children are being diagnosed as having autism at a rate of 1 in 50 according to recent statistics released by the CDC. This unparalleled epidemic requires national and global attention as an Autism Tsunami is already upon us,” said Linda Kuepper, Co-Founder and CEO of the Autism Cares Foundation in Richboro, Bucks County. “Autism Cares Foundation supports Congressman Fitzpatrick’s efforts to direct additional funding toward Autism Research through the Kids First Research Act. This act will direct additional funding to research which we hope will find its way to the very best research professionals as we need to determ…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140221211938/http://schwartz.house.gov/press-release/schwartz-statement-ways-and-means-committees-bipartisan-sgr-repeal-bill	Schwartz Statement on Ways and Means Committee's Bipartisan SGR Repeal Bill	2013-12-12	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	PA	Allyson Schwartz	S001162	web.archive.org	legacy	Washington, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Allyson Y. Schwartz (PA-13) today voted in support of bipartisan legislation to replace Medicare’s broken physician payment system and ensure patient access to doctors while promoting efficiency, quality and value in health care delivery. The Ways and Means Committee unanimously approved the Medicare Patient Access and Quality Improvement Act of 2013 (H.R. 2810) by a vote of 39-0. In February, Congresswoman Schwartz introduced the bipartisan Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act (H.R. 574) with Rep. Joe Heck (R-NV) to repeal the flawed Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) formula and set out a clear path toward comprehensive reforms of Medicare payment and delivery systems. The Ways and Means bill incorporates the overarching framework of Schwartz's legislation, including several specific provisions. “Today’s vote marks a significant leap forward in the effort to permanently repeal the broken Medicare physician payment system that has threatened seniors’ access to health care for more than a decade. For several years I have worked with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to find a long-term solution to this broken policy that has failed Medicare beneficiaries, taxpayers and those on the frontlines of patient care. We have engaged doctors, hospitals and other health care providers, as well as Medicare beneficiaries, to develop a framework for payment reforms that will transform the way we pay for health care in this country. Schwartz said. “I strongly support our committee’s effort to end the costly cycle of short-term fixes that has caused instability and uncertainty for seniors, Medicare providers and the federal budget. Working together, we have created a clear pathway to new reimbursement models that reward value instead of volume, improve patient outcomes, reduce Medicare costs and treat providers fairly. “We owe it to seniors across the country to both end the perennial threat to Medicare beneficiaries’ access to medical services and reform the physician payment mechanisms t…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140222025146/http://schwartz.house.gov/press-release/schwartz-statement-budget-agreeement	Schwartz Statement on Budget Agreeement	2013-12-12	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	PA	Allyson Schwartz	S001162	web.archive.org	legacy	Washington, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Allyson Y. Schwartz (PA-13), the number two Democrat on the House Budget Committee, released the following statement today after voting for House passage of the bipartisan budget agreement (H. J. Res. 59). “The bipartisan budget agreement is far from perfect but it is an improvement over current law and a step toward fully replacing the damaging sequester cuts that have cost Pennsylvania jobs and put our nation’s economy at risk. This agreement restores resources that are critical for Pennsylvania’s health and economic growth, including investments in early childhood education, public safety and scientific research at the National Institutes of Health. It also ensures that seniors continue to have access to their Medicare doctors while giving Congress more time to reach a long-term, bipartisan solution to repeal the broken Medicare physician payment system. “It is unfortunate that House Republican leaders refused to allow a vote to include an extension of expiring long-term unemployment benefits in the budget agreement. If Congress fails to act, more than 86,000 Pennsylvanians who rely on emergency unemployment benefits to pay their mortgage, heat their homes and feed their families will lose their assistance three days after Christmas. Congress should not adjourn for the year until we pass an extension of long-term unemployment benefits that will otherwise expire December 28th.” ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140302043804/http://rothfus.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=25&itemid=626	Rothfus Invites Constituents to "Coffee with Keith" in Apollo	2013-12-12	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	PA	Keith Rothfus	R000598	web.archive.org	legacy	Ross Township, PA– Congressman Keith Rothfus [PA-12] today invited constituents to join him for “Coffee with Keith” in Apollo. “On Wednesday, I will be hosting ‘Coffee with Keith’ at Creekside Diner in Apollo,” said Rothfus. “Constituents are encouraged to stop by to share their thoughts on legislation, to get help with federal agencies, or just to chat.” Rothfus also encouraged constituents to suggest locations for future coffees on Facebook (www.Facebook.com/KeithRothfus) and Twitter (www.Twitter.com/KeithRothfus). “What is your favorite local coffee shop?” asked Rothfus. “Let me know on Facebook and Twitter. You can tweet @KeithRothfus and be sure to include #CoffeeWithKeith. Stay tuned… ‘Coffee with Keith’ could be coming to a community and coffee shop near you!” “Coffee with Keith” in Apollo Where: Creekside Diner 4907 Route 66 Apollo, PA 15613 When: Wednesday, December 18, 2013 10:00 – 11:30AM These events are open to the public and press. Please contact Edward Yap if you would like to schedule an interview with Congressman Rothfus. For directions or more information, please call the Ross Township office at (412) 837-1361.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140309092241/http://rothfus.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=25&itemid=629	Rothfus Votes to Support Strong Defense, Servicemembers, Military Families	2013-12-12	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	PA	Keith Rothfus	R000598	web.archive.org	legacy	Washington, D.C. – Congressman Keith Rothfus [PA-12] released the following statement after voting for the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA): “Providing for a strong defense and supporting our servicemembers and military families are some of Congress’s most important responsibilities,” said Rothfus. “This bipartisan legislation ensures that the military is ready to respond to challenges around the world and provides our men and women in uniform with the resources they need to complete their missions. The NDAA also provides funding to continue to modernize our National Guard and Reserve Components. “More than 171,000 military retirees and family members lost their Tricare Prime coverage on October 1, 2013. To address this, I co-sponsored legislation (H.R. 1971) to direct the Secretary of Defense to provide beneficiaries with the opportunity to retain coverage. As part of the NDAA, these military retirees and family members will have the opportunity to remain on Tricare Prime. In addition, the NDAA rejects the Administration’s proposals to increase or establish new Tricare fees. “Importantly, the bill better protects servicemembers from sexual assault, prosecute offenders, and provide support services to victims.” Information on Efforts to Combat Sexual Assault in the Military from House Armed Services Committee: The legislation includes over 30 provisions or reforms to the Uniform Code of Military Justice related to combatting sexual assault in the military. These reforms would strip commanders of their authority to dismiss a finding by a court martial- a power they have held since the earliest days of our military. It would also prohibit commanders from reducing guilty findings to guilty of a lesser offence. Where servicemembers are found guilty of sexual assault related offenses the NDAA establishes minimum sentencing guidelines. Currently, such guidelines only exist in the military for the crimes of murder and espionage. Personnel records will now include information on sex-related offens…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140330094117/http://rothfus.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=25&itemid=627	Rothfus Questions Treasury Secretary Lew, Defends Western PA Priorities	2013-12-12	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	PA	Keith Rothfus	R000598	web.archive.org	legacy	Washington, D.C. – Congressman Keith Rothfus [PA-12] questioned U.S. Treasury Secretary Jack Lew at a hearing of the House Financial Services Committee. Congressman Rothfus questioned Secretary Lew on the impact of Administration regulations on coal plants and jobs, credit unions and community banks, and low-to-moderate income mortgage borrowers.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140427132252/http://rothfus.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=25&itemid=628	House Passes Bipartisan Budget Agreement	2013-12-12	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	PA	Keith Rothfus	R000598	web.archive.org	legacy	Washington, D.C. – Congressman Keith Rothfus [PA-12] released the following statement after voting for H.J.Res. 59, the Bipartisan Budget Act: “This agreement is nowhere near perfect. Nobody got all they wanted with this budget,” said Rothfus. “That is the result of a functioning divided government designed with checks and balances. “The agreement swaps modest but permanent reforms to mandatory spending for temporary and partial relief from the arbitrary sequester cuts. In so doing it will reduce the deficit without raising taxes, and provide for a stronger national defense. It also includes several provisions to tackle fraud and waste. “This bill also protects seniors’ ability to see their doctors by blocking a dramatic reduction in the Medicare reimbursement rate scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2014.” “Much more needs to be done to rein in big government and address our fiscal challenges in ways that reduce spending, ensure that critical social service programs are solvent for those who need them, and increase job opportunities, wages, and salaries for workers.” The Bipartisan Budget Agreement passed in the House of Representatives by a bipartisan 332-94 vote. Additional Resources: Spending Cuts Included FAQ About the Bipartisan Budget Agreement Summary from the House Budget Committee	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140623100336/http://meehan.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=49&itemid=680	Meehan: Israeli Consulate in Philadelphia to Remain Open	2013-12-12	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	PA	Pat Meehan	M001181	web.archive.org	legacy	WASHINGTON – Today U.S. Representative Patrick Meehan (PA-07) welcomed the news that the Israeli Consulate in Philadelphia will remain open. Meehan sent a letter to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu last month upon learning of a possible closure. “I’m very pleased that the Consulate will continue to operate in Philadelphia, and thank the Israeli government for its continued commitment to the region,” said Meehan. “Its location in Philadelphia serves the national security and economic interests of both the United States and Israel. The relationship between our region and Israel, as well as the advancement of our mutual interests, are best served by the continued official presence of the Consulate.” ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/after-casey-effort-israeli-consulate-to-remain-in-philadelphia	After Casey Effort, Israeli Consulate to Remain in Philadelphia	2013-12-12	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	PA	Bob Casey	C001070	www.casey.senate.gov	legacy	Washington DC- Today, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) praised news that the Israeli government has decided to keep its Philadelphia-based consulate open. Senator Casey, a member of the National Security Working Group and co-chair of the Weapons of Mass Destruction and Terrorism Caucus, wrote Israel’s Prime Minister urging him to keep the consulate open. “I’m pleased that Israel’s government has decided to keep its Consulate General in Philadelphia open,” Senator Casey said. “Israel, Philadelphia and Pennsylvania have a strong history of economic, cultural and political partnerships and its good news that the Consulate will continue to play a role in that relationship throughout the Mid-Atlantic region.” The full text of Casey’s letter can be seen below: His Excellency Benjamin Netanyahu Prime Minister of Israel Dear Prime Minister Netanyahu: It has recently come to my attention that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Israel is considering closure of its consulate in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. I am writing to respectfully urge you not to shutter this consulate, which is important for maintaining the strong, longstanding relationship between the people of Israel and the people of my home state of Pennsylvania. As you will remember from your time living in our beautiful region, Philadelphia is a vibrant economic, political, and cultural hub for the East Coast. Curtailing Israel’s official representation in Philadelphia would adversely impact the historically strong ties that Pennsylvanians have enjoyed with Israel. I understand from the Pennsylvania – Israel Chamber of Commerce that approximately $5 billion of U.S. exports to Israel pass through the greater Philadelphia region every year. Further, they report that the greater Philadelphia region boasts the second largest Jewish population on the East Coast and the fifth largest in the nation. The area is home to some of the top educational, medical, and research institutions in the United States, many of which have enjoyed fruitful partnerships with c…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/as-winter-sets-in-casey-introduces-legislation-to-help-prevent-deaths-from-carbon-monoxide-poisoning	As Winter Sets In, Casey Introduces Legislation to Help Prevent Deaths from Carbon Monoxide Poisoning	2013-12-12	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	PA	Bob Casey	C001070	www.casey.senate.gov	legacy	Washington, DC – As winter sets in, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) introduced legislation to help prevent deaths from carbon monoxide poisoning. The Nicholas and Zachary Burt Memorial Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Prevention Act would allow the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) to provide support for public safety education and to encourage installment of safe and reliable carbon monoxide detectors. “Pennsylvania has seen far too many accidental deaths from carbon monoxide poisoning,” Senator Casey said. “This is a commonsense step that will help protect Pennsylvania families through increased awareness and the increased availability of monitors.” According to the Centers for Disease Control, there are over 400 deaths and 20,000 emergency room visits as a result of CO poisoning each year and the highest percentage of CO exposures occurs during the winter months of December, January, and February. Bill Summary Acknowledges the value of CO alarm and detection devices by promoting their purchase and installation in residential homes and dwellings nationwide. Encourages states to require residential CO detection devices and establishes a federal grant program in the amount of $10M total over a period of five years to provide assistance to these states to carry out a CO education program. The grants would help pay for the development of training materials and for buying and installing alarms in schools and the homes of low-income and elderly people. Places importance on effective devices that meet rigorous safety standards. Consumers should have the confidence that their properly installed and maintained CO alarm will function appropriately in the presence of dangerous CO levels, while avoiding unwanted nuisance alarming that may otherwise cause them to doubt the accuracy of the alarm. Defines approved devices for the purposes of this bill as those compliant with the Underwriters Laboratories (UL) 2034 and UL 2075. These voluntary performance standards are recognized by the American National Stand…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://cartwright.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/health-centers-to-help-uninsured-americans-gain-affordable-health	Health centers to help uninsured Americans gain affordable health insurance coverage in Pennsylvania	2013-12-11	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	PA	Matt Cartwright	C001090	cartwright.house.gov	legacy	Washington, DC – Today, U.S. Representative Matt Cartwright announced that the U.S. Health and Human Services (HHS) has released $2,193,970 in grant awards to 38 Pennsylvania health centers currently working to enroll uninsured Americans in new health insurance coverage options made available by the Affordable Care Act. With these funds, health centers can expand their enrollment assistance efforts as more Americans enroll in affordable health insurance coverage. Across the nation, 1,157 health centers will receive $58 million in grant awards. “With these awards, health centers will be able to meet immediate needs, including expanding the hours of existing outreach and enrollment assistance workers, and hiring new or temporary outreach and enrollment assistance workers,” said Cartwright. Local grant recipients include the Rural Health Corporation of Northeastern Pennsylvania base in Wilkes-Barre and the Scranton Primary Health Care Center, Inc. based in Scranton. The two centers were awarded $127,926 and $83,288, respectively. “Today’s awards build upon the efforts of health centers in Pennsylvania to help uninsured Americans gain health insurance coverage,” Secretary Sebelius said. “This investment means that Pennsylvania health centers can provide expanded assistance for individuals looking for resources to help them understand their insurance options and enroll in affordable coverage.” “Having more opportunities in Pennsylvania for face-to-face enrollment assistance from trusted resources at local health centers means that more individuals will get the help they need to sign up by the end of the open enrollment period on March 31, 2014,” said Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) Administrator Mary Wakefield, Ph.D, R.N. These awards, issued by HRSA, complement and align with other federal efforts to help Americans get access to affordable health insurance coverage. Today’s awards also build upon earlier health center program investments of $150 million nationwide to support outreach and enroll…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://shuster.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=49&itemid=526	Shuster to Introduce Bill to Ban In-Flight Cell Phone Calls	2013-12-11	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	PA	Bill Shuster	S001154	shuster.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON – Transportation and Infrastructure Chairman Bill Shuster (R-PA) plans to introduce a bill today prohibiting in-flight cell phone voice communications on commercial aviation flights. Shuster’s legislation, the “Prohibiting In-Flight Voice Communications on Mobile Wireless Devices Act of 2013,” comes in the wake of the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) announced plans to review the current ban on the use of cell phones for calls in the aircraft cabin during flights. “Let’s face it, airplane cabins are by nature noisy, crowded, and confined,” Shuster said. “For the most part, passengers are looking for ways to make their flights go by as quickly and quietly as possible. Pilots and flight attendants are focused on ensuring a safe and comfortable flight for everyone onboard. “For passengers, being able to use their phones and tablets to get online or send text messages is a useful in-flight option. But if passengers are going to be forced to listen to the gossip in the aisle seat, it’s going to make for a very long flight,” Shuster said. “For those few hours in the air with 150 other people, it’s just common sense that we all keep our personal lives to ourselves and stay off the phone.” The legislation simply prohibits use of mobile devices for voice communications during the in-flight portion of any scheduled domestic commercial flight, exempting any on-duty members of the flight crew and flight attendants, or federal law enforcement personnel acting in an official capacity. Click here to read the bill.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://shuster.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=49&itemid=527	Shuster Fights to Protect Volunteer Firefighters from Obamacare	2013-12-11	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	PA	Bill Shuster	S001154	shuster.house.gov	legacy	Washington – Congressman Bill Shuster announced today that he is an original cosponsor of H.R. 3685, the Protecting Volunteer Firefighters and Emergency Responders Act. This bill would protect volunteer firefighters from the Obamacare mandate that forces volunteer companies with 50 or more members to pay for their members’ health insurance, a move that would cripple our volunteer firefighting force. “Over 90% of Pennsylvania’s firefighters are volunteers who bravely protect both families and homes across the state. It is unconscionable to force these heroes out of their positions by making it impossible for volunteer fire stations to remain open. Those helping their community should not be punished with this type of reckless mandate.” Because it classifies volunteers as employees, Obamacare forces fire companies with more than 50 volunteers to provide health insurance for those that work more than 30 hours a week, a fact that Shuster highlights as a common occurrence among volunteer firefighters. The Protecting Volunteer Firefighters and Emergency Responders Act ensures that volunteers are actually classified as volunteers, not as employees, to allow volunteer departments to continue operating. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, there are 1,800 registered fire departments in Pennsylvania, and 97% of the firefighters in the state are volunteers or mostly volunteers. “This is just another one of the countless examples of how Obamacare is hurting everyday people across Pennsylvania. From over 250,000 people losing their preferred health insurance, to increased premiums, website problems, and now penalizing our volunteer firefighters, it is clear that Obamacare is only hurting Pennsylvanians,” said Shuster. “These citizens make the decision to volunteer not because they want insurance or a paycheck, but because they want to help in their towns and communities. They are the everyday heroes who help make America great, and it’s absurd to think that the President’s law is going to force them to stop serving. Tha…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://thompson.house.gov/press-release/thompson-advances-fight-against-health-care-law%E2%80%99s-mandates-volunteer-firefighting-and	Thompson Advances Fight Against Health Care Law’s Mandates on Volunteer Firefighting and Emergency Organizations	2013-12-11	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	PA	Glenn Thompson	T000467	thompson.house.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C. – U.S. Representative Glenn 'GT' Thompson (PA-5) today joined fellow Members of Congress in holding a press conference to discuss the introduction of the Protecting Volunteer Firefighters and Emergency Responders Act (H.R. 3685), which will ensure that emergency services volunteers are not counted as full-time employees under the employer mandate in the Affordable Care Act (ACA). “Under the President’s health care law, volunteer firefighting organizations could potentially be defined as employers, meaning they would be forced to provide health insurance to their volunteers or be subject to penalties. If not corrected or clarified this provision has the potential to close volunteer fire houses across the commonwealth,” stated Rep. Thompson, a 30-year volunteer firefighter, EMT, and state-certified Rescue Technician. “This bill is about providing certainty to our local volunteer organizations and standing up for those who put their lives on the line protecting our communities.” Under the ACA’s employer mandate, volunteer organizations with 50 or more employees could be forced to provide health insurance or pay penalties. H.R. 3685 would ensure that volunteer firefighters and EMTs are not counted as employees under the law. In September, Representative Lou Barletta (PA-11), the bill’s sponsor, sent a letter to IRS Commissioner Daniel Werfel seeking clarification for volunteer fire companies. The IRS has not responded to the letter. Over 97% of Pennsylvania’s fire departments – and 90% nationwide - are served by community volunteers. Fire companies could exceed the 50 employee threshold in several different ways: by themselves based on their size, by being part of a larger combined force under several different chiefs, or by being part of a municipality that has 50 or more public employees in total. H.R. 3685 is supported by the National Volunteer Fire Council and the International Association of Fire Chiefs. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://toomey.senate.gov?p=news&id=1218	Sen. Toomey?s Statement On Final Volker Rule [press_release]	2013-12-11	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	PA	Patrick Toomey	T000461	toomey.senate.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Pat Toomey (R-Pa.) released the following statement about the Volker Rule being finalized. "One of the problems with this more than 1,000-page regulation is that it undermines banks' essential role as a market-maker for essential securities. The Volker Rule will increase the cost of capital for Pennsylvania companies and hurt economic growth. In fact, the underlying legislation and the regulators tacitly admit this rule's harmful impact on the cost of capital by their decision to exempt certain borrowers from it - namely, the federal government and foreign governments. But then why should a government overseas be exempt from this harmful rule while an employer in Pennsylvania is not? "Rather than layering on more complicated red tape that picks winners and losers and hurts job creation, I believe we should be supporting capital formation and finally doing away with current policies that propagate ‘too big to fail' and expose taxpayers to more bailouts down the road."	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://toomey.senate.gov?p=news&id=1219	Sens. Toomey & Casey Working To Stop EPA?s Dangerous Regulation Of Fire Hydrants [press_release]	2013-12-11	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	PA	Patrick Toomey	T000461	toomey.senate.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. -U.S. Senators Pat Toomey (R-Pa.) and Bob Casey (D-Pa) are working together to bolster fire safety and protect local governments from a dangerous and expensive new mandate. Sen. Charles Schumer (D-N.Y) and Sen. Rob Portman (R-Ohio) have also supported Sen. Toomey's bipartisan legislation which prohibits Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) oversight of fire hydrants. The need for this bill stems from a recent EPA policy that will require local governments to replace malfunctioning fire hydrants with new independently certified lead-free fire hydrants. This EPA regulation essentially makes it impossible for local governments to repair fire hydrants or replace them with existing inventory. Additionally, it is uncertain whether fire hydrants that meet the new criteria are actually available for purchase. "It is absurd that the EPA has handed down this costly mandate, which will fall directly on the backs of local governments," said Sen. Toomey. "The implementation of this EPA rule will force local governments to leave malfunctioning fire hydrants idle until adequate funds and products are available-- which poses an undeniable threat to public safety." "The regulation issued by EPA will prove too costly and too burdensome for Pennsylvania's fire departments and could threaten public safety," Sen. Casey said. "Passing this bipartisan legislation will allow our first responders to continue their lifesaving work while aiding municipalities looking to replace aging fire hydrants." As a result of this rule, local governments across the country will be forced to leave malfunctioning fire hydrants out-of-service until sufficient numbers of new compliant fire hydrants can be purchased and installed. The cost of purchasing new fire hydrants every time an existing fire hydrant malfunctions will place considerable financial strain on local governments, and place the safety of communities across the country at-risk. Companion legislation was unanimously adopted by the House on December 2nd. Several of Penns…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://dent.house.gov/index.cfm?p=PressReleases&ContentRecord_id=D9C16E60-1B61-4153-B371-43400CE77A1F	Dent Sees Budget Deal as Important Step Forward	2013-12-11	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	PA	Charlie Dent	D000604	dent.house.gov	legacy	“This solid, modest budget agreement represents significant progress in demonstrating to the American people that Congress has the capacity to govern. The agreement means that the potential threat of another looming government shutdown is largely eliminated –not only this year – but next year as well. This is important because certainty, predictability and stability are a foundation upon which economic growth can be built. The Agreement advances efforts to reduce the deficit and the debt, but it does so in a more responsible and balanced way than the indiscriminate Sequester cuts. In fact, total deficit reduction derived from this agreement is actually $23 billion more than would be achieved under the Sequester alone. It’s time that Congress returned to the “regular order” approach to accomplishing the business of the American people. Is this an earth-shattering grand bargain? No, but it does represent an important bipartisan understanding that in a divided government, where no one party controls both the legislative and the executive branches, progress must be incremental and compromise is necessary to keep the nation functioning. In that regard, this is an important agreement.” ### Contact: Shawn Millan (610) 770-3490	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20131214040936/http://fitzpatrick.house.gov:80/press-release/fitzpatrick-volunteer-fire-depts-shouldn%E2%80%99t-get-burned-aca	Fitzpatrick: Volunteer Fire Depts. Shouldn’t get Burned by ACA	2013-12-11	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	PA	Michael Fitzpatrick	F000451	web.archive.org	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. �� Congressman Mike Fitzpatrick (PA-8) is following up on a letter sent to the Internal Revenue Service in early October asking for clarification about the potential impact of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) on local volunteer fire departments. After not hearing from the IRS for over two months, Fitzpatrick joined other lawmakers in introducing the Protecting Volunteer Firefighters and Emergency Responders Act [H.R. 3685] which would clarify the ruling about the status of volunteer fire companies under the ACA and exempt volunteer fire fighters from the ACA��s employer mandate. ��As it stands right now, volunteer fire departments are potentially considered employers, and their firefighters as paid employees �� meaning, they��re subject to the same mandates and penalties found in the president��s healthcare law for businesses,�� said Fitzpatrick. ��This interpretation would be devastating to volunteer fire companies and our safety throughout Bucks and Montgomery County.�� This is a concern I��ve been hearing from volunteer firefighters around the district for months, which is why I wrote a letter to IRS Acting Commissioner Werfel asking for a clarification,�� continued Fitzpatrick. ��As we approach the deadline I think they need clarity�� this bill does that by ensuring the IRS cannot misinterpret Obamacare.�� Fitzpatrick��s letter highlighted concerns that currently the IRS treats all firefighters - volunteer or paid - as employees for federal tax purposes.�� However, this status under the ACA could fall under the law��s ��?Shared Responsibility Provision�� and result fines for fire companies who don��t provide health insurance. Over 97% of Pennsylvania��s fire departments �� and 90% nationwide - are served by community volunteers. ��The administration has admitted there are flaws in the bill. Unfortunately, just because this may have been an oversight in a massive piece of legislation doesn��t mean it��s not the law,�� continued Fitzpatrick. ��The reality is that many n…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140804134125/http://meehan.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=49&itemid=679	Meehan-Backed Gabriella Miller Kids First Research Act Passes House	2013-12-11	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	PA	Pat Meehan	M001181	web.archive.org	legacy	Meehan-Backed Gabriella Miller Kids First Research Act Passes House Legislation increases funding for pediatric research, cuts spending on political conventions WASHINGTON, DC –The House of Representatives today passed H.R. 2019, the Gabriella Miller Kids First Research Act, by a vote of 295-103. Co-sponsored by Rep. Patrick Meehan (PA-07), the Kids First Research Act increases funding for research on pediatric diseases or disorders such as autism by cutting federal spending on partisan presidential nominating conventions. “This legislation is a fine example of Congress making prudent choices about how it spends the taxpayers’ dollars,” said Rep. Meehan. “We’re reducing unnecessary spending on partisan political events and directing it to spending priorities – in this case, research to fight pediatric conditions like autism.” “This means more lifesaving research that will bring us closer to understanding these conditions, and it means better outcomes for children that live with them. I applaud Leader Cantor for his effort on behalf of American children and I urge the Senate to act to follow suit.” Meehan has long been an advocate for families with children coping with pediatric conditions like autism, helping to lead one of the first Congressional hearings on autism in more than a decade. Earlier this year, he invited an autism early-intervention teacher from Delaware County as his guest for the President’s State of the Union address to highlight the work done by the countless parents, educators and caregivers that support children with autism.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/at-hearing-casey-secures-commitment-from-irs-nominee-to-quickly-address-aca-volunteer-firefighters-issue-	At Hearing Casey Secures Commitment from IRS Nominee to Quickly Address ACA, Volunteer Firefighters Issue	2013-12-11	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	PA	Bob Casey	C001070	www.casey.senate.gov	legacy	Washington DC- Today, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) announced that he has secured a commitment from John Andrew Koskinen, nominee to be the next Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Commissioner, that concerns raised by volunteer firefighters about Affordable Care Act (ACA) requirements will be quickly addressed. “Pennsylvania has a long and proud tradition of volunteer firefighters and I’m pleased that the likely next head of the IRS has committed to addressing this issue,” Senator Casey said. “Our volunteer firefighters make tremendous sacrifices on our behalf and I believe it’s critical that IRS quickly clear up this confusion over the Affordable Care Act.” Some fire companies with over 50 volunteer firefighters have raised concerns about whether they are required to provide health insurance for these volunteers under the ACA. With already tight budgets, many volunteer fire companies were worried about the uncertainty of additional costs. As a member of the Finance Committee, Senator Casey has oversight over the IRS and the Committee is charged with confirming its next Commissioner. During today’s confirmation hearing Casey secured a commitment from the nominee to address this issue on behalf of Pennsylvania’s volunteer firefighters. The nominees said it would be one of the first issues he addresses. ### Press Contact John Rizzo 202-228-6367	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/casey-pushes-for-passage-of-bill-to-prevent-flood-insurance-hikes-on-thousands-of-pennsylvanians-before-years-end	Casey Pushes for Passage of Bill to Prevent Flood Insurance Hikes on Thousands of Pennsylvanians Before Year’s End	2013-12-11	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	PA	Bob Casey	C001070	www.casey.senate.gov	legacy	Washington, DC- With over 30,000 Pennsylvania policyholders potentially impacted, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA), today, called for passage of legislation that will forestall flood insurance hikes. This bipartisan legislation has support in both houses of Congress and would protect Pennsylvanians, some of whom are beginning to feel the first impacts of these hikes. In a letter to Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, Casey pushed for the Senate to quickly act on this legislation before steeper rate hikes take effect. Pennsylvania would be the 7th most impacted state in the country without passing this legislation. “I have called on the Senate to take up this legislation soon to give certainty to homeowners across Pennsylvania,” Senator Casey said. “This is a commonsense, bipartisan proposal that could prevent drastic rate hikes for over 30,000 policyholders across the state.” The potential increase in flood insurance rates is coming as a result of the Biggert-Waters Reform Act of 2012. Because of the way the legislation calculates flood risks, up to 30,000 policies in Pennsylvania could eventually see increases. The Homeowner Flood Insurance Affordability Act would: Delay rate increases for: All homes and businesses that are currently “grandfathered.” These are properties that were built to code and later remapped into a higher risk area. Prior to Biggert-Waters, these policyholders were not penalized for relying on inaccurate FEMA flood maps. All properties that purchased a new policy after July 6, 2012, before they were legally required to purchase insurance. All properties sold after July 6, 2012. New homeowners and business owners will continue to receive the same treatment as the previous owner unless they trigger another provision in Biggert-Waters such as Severe Repetitive Loss, non-primary residence, substantial damage, etc. Seek assurances of FEMA’s ability to accurately determine flood risk. Establish a Flood Insurance Advocate within FEMA. Allow FEMA to use the National Flood …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140221091326/http://fitzpatrick.house.gov/press-release/fitzpatrick-recognizes-%E2%80%98made-america-month%E2%80%99-pushes-bipartisan-%E2%80%98made-america-act%E2%80%99	Fitzpatrick Recognizes ‘Made in America Month’, Pushes Bipartisan ‘Made in America Act’	2013-12-10	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	PA	Michael Fitzpatrick	F000451	web.archive.org	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Mike Fitzpatrick (PA-8) released the following statement Tuesday in recognition of ‘Made in America Month’ in which he continued advocating for consideration of his bipartisan Made in America Act [H.R. 2664]: It’s no surprise that December is one of the biggest retail month of the year for American businesses and manufacturers. Between the holidays and the onset of the winter weather, consumers are ready to buy – and studies show they’re ready to buy American. In 1985, President Reagan proclaimed December as ‘Made in America Month’ – a time to ‘recognize and celebrate the excellence of American products.’ This year, we mark ‘Made in America Month’ with the same goals: to highlight the strength and importance of American business and the American worker through supporting producers right here in our communities. I believe every month is ‘Made in America Month.’ That’s why I’ve joined with Congressman John Carney (D-DE) in introducing the bipartisan ‘Made in America Act’ – simple legislation that connects American businesses and American consumers like never before. By streamlining the process, this bill allows consumers to easily identify real, American-made products while incentivizing American manufacturers to make and sell locally. This ‘Made in America Month’, I’m joining the millions of other Americans in supporting the American-made economy and pushing for a Washington that empowers Americans businesses. Fitzpatrick introduced the Made in America Act in July, announcing it at a press event at K’nex in Hatfield, Montgomery County. More information about the event and legislation is available HERE ### Congressman Mike Fitzpatrick is serving his third term in the U.S. House of Representatives. He represents Pennsylvania’s 8th district which includes all of Bucks County as well as a portion of Montgomery County. He serves as the Vice Chairman of the House Financial Services Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140221225331/http://brady.house.gov/press-release/congressman-brady-presents-check-harambee-charter-school-support-school%E2%80%99s-basketball	Congressman Brady presents check to Harambee Charter School in support of the schools basketball program	2013-12-10	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	PA	Robert Brady	B001227	web.archive.org	legacy	FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Karen Warrington (215)389-4627 Karen.warrington@mail.house.gov Philadelphia --- In spite of today��s harsh weather Congressman Bob Brady (D., PA) showed up at the Harambee Charter School to hand over a check for $2,100 to support the school��s boys and girls basketball teams. The check from the Greater Philadelphia Traditions fund will pay for league fees and team uniforms. Presenting the check to Harambee Athletic Director Anthony Medlock, Brady said, ��This school is in the First Congressional District and in the heart of neighborhood I grew up in. And, I wanted to make sure that these students would be able to continue their basketball program.��? Medlock said, ��Congressman Brady is a man of his word. I talked to him at a community event and asked for his help and he promised he would see to it that these students would be able to play this season. And, here he is today, in spite of the weather.��? ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140222222540/http://schwartz.house.gov/press-release/schwartz-urges-passage-bill-strengthen-social-security	Schwartz Urges Passage of Bill to Strengthen Social Security	2013-12-10	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	PA	Allyson Schwartz	S001162	web.archive.org	legacy	Washington, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Allyson Y. Schwartz (PA-13) today called on the House to pass the Strengthening Social Security Act of 2013 (H.R. 3118) to boost existing benefits while ensuring that Social Security is stronger for future generations. “Far too many Pennsylvanians are concerned about whether they will have enough money to live comfortably when they retire. We have an obligation to ensure that American seniors who have spent a lifetime working hard, saving for their retirement and paying into Social Security have the dignity and financial independence they deserve,” Schwartz said. “This bill ensures that Social Security continues to provide the bedrock of retirement security for millions of Americans today and in the decades to come.” In Pennsylvania alone, Social Security provides more than 1.7 million seniors with the foundation for a dignified retirement. Social Security also provides benefits to more than 400,000 Pennsylvanians with disabilities and more than 192,000 children. Schwartz is a cosponsor of the Strengthening Social Security Act of 2013, which Rep. Linda Sanchez (CA-38) introduced in September. The bill increases benefits and extends the solvency of the Social Security trust fund an additional 17 years, through 2049. The legislation: Changes the benefit calculation formula the Social Security Administration uses, which would boost benefits for Social Security beneficiaries by approximately $65 per month. Ensures that benefits adequately reflect cost increases facing seniors by changing the way the Social Security Administration calculates Cost of Living Adjustments (COLA). Under the bill, future COLAs will be based on the Consumer Price Index for the Elderly (CPI-E). Extends the Social Security Trust Fund’s solvency by gradually phasing out the current taxable cap of $113,700. As a member of the House Ways and Means Committee’s Subcommittee on Social Security and as a member of the Seniors Task Force, Schwartz has long been a champion for preserving Social Security and has foug…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140504210616/http://meehan.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=49&itemid=677	Bipartisan Defense Bill Includes Meehan/Speier Protections for Assault Victims	2013-12-10	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	PA	Pat Meehan	M001181	web.archive.org	legacy	Bipartisan Defense Bill Includes Meehan/Speier Protections for Assault Victims WASHINGTON, DC – Bipartisan compromise legislation announced today by House and Senate negotiators includes provisions sponsored by Rep. Patrick Meehan (R/PA-7) and Rep. Jackie Speier (D/CA-14) that protect the victims of sexual assault in the military. According to a fact sheet distributed by the House Armed Services Committee, the compromise agreement includes a number of reforms that address the issue of sexual assault in the military. The deal strips commanders of their authority to dismiss a finding by a court martial. It would also prohibit commanders from reducing guilty findings to guilty of a lesser offence. Earlier this year, Meehan and Speier introduced legislation that removes this authority. This issue earned national attention when a sexual assault conviction was overturned by a commander in Italy. “The men and women who serve our nation in uniform should have confidence that victims of sexual assault will be treated fairly and that the perpetrators will face justice,” Meehan said. “These measures are prudent, responsible reforms that protect the victims of sexual assault in our military.” “I commend Chairman McKeon, Chairman Levin and their colleagues for including these vital protections in their legislation and I urge both the House and the Senate to pass it promptly,” Meehan said.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140801085035/http://meehan.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=49&itemid=678	Meehan Continues Fight Against ObamaCare Mandates on Fire Companies	2013-12-10	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	PA	Pat Meehan	M001181	web.archive.org	legacy	Meehan Continues Fight Against ObamaCare Mandates on Fire Companies Co-Sponsors Protecting Volunteer Firefighters and Emergency Responders Act WASHINGTON, DC –Congressman Patrick Meehan (PA-07) today joined his colleagues in the House to co-sponsor the Protecting Volunteer Firefighters and Emergency Responders Act, which will ensure that emergency services volunteers are not counted as full-time employees under the employer mandate in ObamaCare. Meehan co-sponsored the legislation after sending a letter to IRS Commissioner Daniel Werfel in September seeking answers for volunteer fire companies. The IRS has not responded to this letter. Meehan joined the National Volunteer Fire Council and the International Association of Fire Chiefs who also sent letters to Commissioner Werfel about this issue. “Requiring volunteer fire companies to comply with the ‘Shared Responsibility’ mandates and consider their volunteers as full-time employees would not extend health insurance to the uninsured,” Meehan wrote. “It would cost communities volunteers and risk shuttering firehouses. I urge the IRS to immediately clarify its treatment of volunteer firefighters regarding the employer mandate, providing certainty to small communities and volunteers who serve them.” ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/31-us-senators-urge-reauthorization-of-key-unemployment-insurance-program	31 U.S. Senators Urge Reauthorization of Key Unemployment Insurance Program	2013-12-10	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	PA	Bob Casey	C001070	www.casey.senate.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, DC – In an effort to prevent more than 1.3 million long-term unemployed workers from losing their unemployment insurance at the end of December -- and millions more from having no benefits after their initial 26 weeks of unemployment insurance (UI) are exhausted during the course of 2014 – a group of 31 U.S. Senators, led by Jack Reed (D-RI), today sent a letter urging Congress to preserve federal unemployment insurance for another year. With just 23 days before federal UI benefits are set to expire, the Senators wrote: “We are writing to urge the continuation of federal support for unemployment insurance, a critical component of our ongoing recovery and a lifeline to millions of Americans as they search for work in this challenging economy. As it stands now, a few days after the holiday season ends, unemployment insurance will abruptly terminate, cutting off support for 1.3 million Americans.” The unemployment insurance system is a partnership between the federal government and state governments that provides a temporary weekly benefit to qualified workers who lose their job and are seeking work. The amount of that benefit is based in part on a worker’s past earnings. In Rhode Island, the average weekly UI benefit amount is $354 and the Ocean State is among 43 states that offer 26 weeks of UI coverage, while 7 states offer fewer weeks. The extended federal UI program was signed into law in June 2008 by President George W. Bush, when the national unemployment rate was 5.6% and the average duration of jobless insurance was 17.1 weeks. It has been reauthorized by Congress a number of times since as America seeks to emerge from the greatest economic recession since the Great Depression. Today, the national unemployment rate is 7% and the average duration of UI benefits is 36.1 weeks, which is much longer than the 26 weeks of unemployment coverage that most states provide. According to the non-partisan Center on Budget and Policy Priorities (CBPP), the long-term unemployment rate is falling, but …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/casey-backs-bill-that-would-help-small-businesses-recover-from-disasters	Casey Backs Bill That Would Help Small Businesses Recover from Disasters	2013-12-10	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	PA	Bob Casey	C001070	www.casey.senate.gov	legacy	Washington, DC- As winter storms hit Pennsylvania, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) announced that he is backing a bipartisan piece of legislation to help small businesses recover from the impacts of extreme weather. The bill, the bipartisan Small Business Disaster Reform Act of 2013, would ease burdens for businesses applying for smaller loans in the wake of disasters and would help out of state small business development centers coordinate with Pennsylvania businesses during an emergency when in-state small business development centers may not be operating due to the weather emergency. “This week’s winter storm is a reminder of the unique challenges that our state faces from extreme weather,” Senator Casey said. “This commonsense legislation will ensure that small businesses can get the help they need after a storm without unnecessary risks or burdens.” The purpose of this bill is to 1) require the SBA to use all other types of collateral on small business disaster loans other than a business owner’s primary residence; and 2) to authorize Small Business Development Centers to assist other geographical areas when needed. Section 1 of the bill clarifies that, for SBA disaster business loans less than $200,000 that SBA is required to utilize assets other than the primary residence if those assets are available to use as collateral towards the loan. This provision will ensure that SBA is responsive to the needs of small businesses seeking smaller amounts of disaster assistance. Businesses seeking smaller loans are often experience the biggest burdens in way of liens on their primary personal residential homes when they could conceivably provide sufficient business assets as collateral for the loan. The SBA has at its disposal multiple ways to secure loans. This bill makes that SBA’s policy – that for smaller business loans, personal homes should be collateral of last resort. This removes a major psychological hurdle for business owners and helps SBA in marketing these loans for future disasters. Section 2 …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://marino.house.gov/event/foreign-affairs-committee-hearing-29	Foreign Affairs Committee Hearing	2013-12-09	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	PA	Tom Marino	M001179	marino.house.gov	legacy	Foreign Affairs Full Committee Hearing: The Iran Nuclear Deal: Does It Further U.S. National Security? Witnesses: The Honorable John F. Kerry; Secretary of State, U.S. Department of State	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://marino.house.gov/event/foreign-affairs-committee-hearing-30	Foreign Affairs Committee Hearing	2013-12-09	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	PA	Tom Marino	M001179	marino.house.gov	legacy	Foreign Affairs Full Committee Hearing: Afghanistan 2014: Year of Transition Witnesses: The Honorable James F. Dobbins; Special Representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan, U.S. Department of State Mr. Donald L. Sampler; Assistant to the Administrator, Office of Afghanistan and Pakistan Affairs, U.S. Agency for International Development Mr. Michael J. Dumont; Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense Afghanistan, Pakistan, & Central Asia, U.S. Department of Defense	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://marino.house.gov/event/foreign-affairs-joint-subcommittee-hearing-3	Foreign Affairs Joint Subcommittee Hearing	2013-12-09	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	PA	Tom Marino	M001179	marino.house.gov	legacy	Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Africa, Glocal Health, Global Human Rights, and International Organizations and Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on the Middle East and North Africa Hearing: Human Rights Abuses in Egypt Zuhdi Jasser, M.D.; Vice Chair, U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom His Grace Bishop Angaelos; General Bishop, Coptic Orthodox Church in the United Kingdom Mr. Samuel Tadros; Research Fellow, Center for Religious Freedom, Hudson Institute Morad Abou-Sabe, Ph.D.; Professor Emeritus, Rutgers University (Former President of Misr University for Science & Technology) Mr. Tad Stahnke; Director of Policy and Programs, Human Rights First	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://marino.house.gov/event/foreign-affairs-joint-subcommittee-hearing-4	Foreign Affairs Joint Subcommittee Hearing	2013-12-09	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	PA	Tom Marino	M001179	marino.house.gov	legacy	Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Africa, Global Health, Global Human Rights, and International Organizations and Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on the Middle East and North Africa Hearing: Iran's Persecution of American Pastor Abedini Worsens Witnesses: Katrina Lantos Swett, Ph.D.; Vice Chair, U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom Ms. Naghmeh Abedini; Wife of Pastor Saeed Abedini Mr. Jordan Sekulow; Executive Director, American Center for Law and Justice	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://marino.house.gov/event/homeland-security-committee-hearing-10	Homeland Security Committee Hearing	2013-12-09	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	PA	Tom Marino	M001179	marino.house.gov	legacy	Homeland Security Full Committee Hearing: Help Wanted at DHS: Implications of Leadership Vacancies on the Mission and Morale Witnsses: The Honorable Tom Ridge, first Secretary of Homeland Security Mr. Max Stier; President and CEO, Partnership for Public Service Mr. David Maurer; Director, Government Accountability Office	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140221033324/http://perry.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-perry-legislation-would-increase-health-care-choices	Rep. Perry Legislation Would Increase Health Care Choices	2013-12-09	2013	2013-12	Republican	House	PA	Scott Perry	P000605	web.archive.org	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. – As Congress approaches its self-imposed December 13th deadline to reach an agreement on a federal budget plan, U.S. Representative Scott Perry (PA-4) joined Representative Sam Johnson (R-TX) to introduce common-sense legislation, H.R. 3498, to help reduce federal spending and give seniors more freedom to make their own healthcare decisions. H.R. 3498 will allow seniors to voluntarily opt-out of Medicare coverage and empower them to provide for their own healthcare services if they choose. H.R. 3498 could reduce federal spending by an estimated $11 billion over the next decade. Congress must work together to make the tough and reasonable decisions to address America’s $17 trillion debt crisis and Congressman Perry hopes the enactment of H.R. 3498 will help spur other efforts to control our spending and lay the groundwork for a healthy economy. Today, you can choose not to enroll in Medicare Part B or Part D, but not for Part A - unless you give up your Social Security benefits as well. This legislation ensures your Social Security benefits remain intact. Along with allowing individuals to voluntarily opt-out of Medicare Part A when they become eligible for the benefit, this legislation also makes seniors eligible to invest funds in tax-free Health Savings Accounts (HSAs). “Americans should have the right to choose a healthcare plan that fits their needs, rather than be tied to a government-run system that doesn’t meet their unique medical requirements,” said Rep. Perry. “American seniors should have the choice to decide what plan works best for their family. Medicare also desperately needs to be reformed in order to ensure this program is viable for current and future generations. This bill takes off some of the budgetary pressure from Medicare to help ensure its long-term sustainability for all seniors.” “As folks continue to see their healthcare options diminished by ObamaCare, it’s critical to find ways that allow a return to choice and freed…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/casey-calls-for-passage-of-new-plan-to-provide-background-checks-for-childcare-workers	Casey Calls for Passage of New Plan to Provide Background Checks for Childcare Workers	2013-12-09	2013	2013-12	Democrat	House	PA	Bob Casey	C001070	www.casey.senate.gov	legacy	Philadelphia PA- After a spate of incidents in Southeastern Pennsylvania underscoring the importance of quality childcare, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) called for passage of a new plan that would provide federal standards for background checks on childcare workers. In a letter to Senate leaders, Senator Casey urged Congress to reauthorize the Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG). The bipartisan Senate bill to reauthorize CCDBG contains provisions to strengthen background checks for childcare workers. Casey was joined by advocates from across the region who discussed the need to pass these reforms to better protect children. “Parents leaving their children in child care should have the peace of mind that their children are being cared for by trustworthy individuals without a criminal record,” Senator Casey said. “Establishing a strong national standard for background checks will ensure that all children in child care, no matter what state they live in, will receive equal protection.” The Child Care and Development Block Grant provides subsidies to assist low-income families in obtaining child care so that parents can work or participate in education or training activities. Discretionary funding for this program is authorized by the Child Care and Development Block Grant Act of 1990, which has not been reauthorized since 1996. CCDBG funds, along with a mandatory child care funding stream authorized separately, are known as the Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF). The CCDF is the primary source of federal funding dedicated solely to child care subsidies for low-income working and welfare families. The CCDF provides block grants to states, according to a formula, which are used to subsidize the child care expenses of working families with children under age 13. In addition to providing funding for child care services, funds are also used for activities intended to improve the overall quality and supply of child care for families in general. In FY 2011, the most recent year for which data are …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z

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   [date] TEXT,
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Press releases

1,293 rows where state = "PA" and year = 2013 sorted by date descending

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