press: releases: 1,105 rows where state = "VA" and year = 2014 sorted by date descending

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1,105 rows where state = "VA" and year = 2014 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://morgangriffith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398382	Ninth District Traveling Staff Office Hours for January	2014-12-29	2014	2014-12	Republican	House	VA	Morgan Griffith	G000568	morgangriffith.house.gov	legacy	Congressman Griffith’s Ninth District STAFF will be available at the following locations during the month of January. In the event of inclement weather (heavy snow, sleet, icy rain, etc.), traveling office hours may be rescheduled to avoid putting constituents at risk. Please contact the Christiansburg Office at 540-381-5671 or the Abingdon Office at 276-525-1405 with any questions or to confirm that traveling hours are still in effect. January 6, 2015 Tazewell County: 10:00 am – 12:00 pm Richlands Town Hall 200 Washington Square Richlands, VA Buchanan County: 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Grundy Town Hall 1185 Plaza Drive Grundy, VA Pulaski County: 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Dublin Town Hall Route 100, 1 mile North of I-81 Dublin, VA January 7, 2015 Smyth County: 10:00 am – 12:00 pm Town Council Chambers 138 West Main Street Marion, VA Covington: 10:00 am – 12:00 pm Covington City Hall City Hall Conference Room 333 W. Locust Street Covington, VA Craig County: 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Craig County Administration Building 108 Court Street New Castle, VA Bristol: 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Bristol VA Public Library Upstairs Conference Room 701 Goode Street Bristol, VA January 8, 2015 Grayson County: 10:00 am – 12:00 pm Grayson County Administration Building Board of Supervisors Room – Suite 206 129 Davis Street Independence, VA Russell County: 10:00 am – 12:00 pm Southwest Virginia Technology Development Center 141 Highland Drive Lebanon, VA Tazewell County: 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Bluefield Town Hall – Council Chambers 112 Huffard Drive Bluefield, VA Galax: 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Galax Municipal Building Conference Room 111 E. Main Street Galax, VA January 13, 2015 Giles County: 10:00 am – 12:00 pm Pearisburg Town Hall 112 Tazewell Street Pearisburg, VA Dickenson County: 10:00 am – 12:00 pm Dickenson Center for Education & Research 818 Happy Valley Drive Clintwood, VA Salem: …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://morgangriffith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398383	Congressman Griffiths 2015 Congressional Issues Survey	2014-12-29	2014	2014-12	Republican	House	VA	Morgan Griffith	G000568	morgangriffith.house.gov	legacy	As your Congressman, I am committed to making sure that your views and positions are heard when key issues are debated in Washington. Please share with me your perspective about some the issues and proposals that may come before the Congress in 2015. To take the 2015 Congressional Issues Survey, please click here or visit http://morgangriffith.house.gov/2015issuessurvey/ . With concerns, comments, or to request a physical copy of the 2015 Congressional Issues Survey, you can call my Abingdon office at 276-525-1405 or my Christiansburg office at 540-381-5671. To reach my office via email, please visit my website at www.morgangriffith.house.gov. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-weighs-in-on-national-strategy-to-prevent-opioid-abuse	Kaine Weighs In On National Strategy To Prevent Opioid Abuse	2014-12-23	2014	2014-12	Democrat	House	VA	Tim Kaine	K000384	www.kaine.senate.gov	legacy	Kaine Weighs In On National Strategy To Prevent Opioid Abuse Tuesday, December 23, 2014 WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tim Kaine joined 20 of his colleagues to write a letter to Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) Sylvia Mathews Burwell on the national strategy to address opioid abuse being developed by HHS. In the letter, Kaine and his colleagues urged HHS to focus on overdose education, access to substance abuse treatment services, and the distribution of naloxone, an antidote that stops the effects of an opioid overdose for a short period of time. Specifically, they encouraged HHS to expand surveillance and data collection around opioid abuse and include innovative ways to integrate naloxone into the health care delivery system. “Given our shared concern about the growing rate of overdose deaths associated with heroin and prescription painkillers, we urge HHS to ensure that overdose prevention, specifically through the use of naloxone and other similarly effective drugs, figures prominently in the 2015 National Drug Control Strategy, as well as the Administration’s Fiscal Year 2016 budget proposal,” the Senators wrote. “Despite the life-saving capabilities of naloxone, its use in overdose prevention is not widespread. A comprehensive plan for reducing overdose deaths should include adequate financial assistance for state and local governments, as well as community organizations, to purchase and distribute naloxone to first responders, law enforcement officials, medical facilities, and members of at-risk individuals’ communities.” This summer, Kaine participated in a Project REVIVE training session in Lebanon, where he and other participants learned how to administer naloxone. He also recently visited Richmond-based pharmaceutical company Kaléo, which received FDA approval for its new naloxone auto-injector delivery system EVZIO™. Kaine co-sponsored the Opioid Overdose Reduction Act bipartisan “Good Samaritan” legislation that would protect individuals fr…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://morgangriffith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398381	Congressman Griffith's Weekly E-Newsletter 12.22.14	2014-12-22	2014	2014-12	Republican	House	VA	Morgan Griffith	G000568	morgangriffith.house.gov	legacy	God Bless Us, Every One! 171 years ago in 1843, well-loved English writer Charles Dickens published A Christmas Carol. Even if they don’t know of Charles Dickens by name, many Americans are familiar with the story of bitter, curmudgeonly old Ebenezer Scrooge and the redemptive journey that ultimately transforms him into a warmer, gentler, and more generous human being. A Christmas Carol is a timeless tale that remains popular to this day – particularly this time of year – whether in print or adapted to stage, film, or other types of media. Far lesser known is Dickens’ first novel, The Pickwick Papers, published in 1837. In The Pickwick Papers, Dickens wrote a chapter similar in nature to the plot of A Christmas Carol, evidently developing what would in a few years become the classic. Among other stories in The Pickwick Papers is ‘The Goblin and the Sexton,’ in which Dickens tells of the morose, melancholy and lonely Gabriel Grub (who was a gravedigger and ‘sexton,’ or one who looks over a church). On Christmas Eve, as he was finishing digging a grave, Gabriel was met by a goblin sitting on a tombstone. “Who makes graves at a time when all other men are merry, and takes a pleasure in it?," the goblin asked. The goblin soon continued, “We know the man with the sulky face and grim scowl, that came down the street to-night, throwing his evil looks at the children, and grasping his burying-spade the tighter. We know the man who struck the boy in the envious malice of his heart, because the boy could be merry, and he could not. We know him, we know him." Soon after, a number of goblins poured into the graveyard, which also filled with the lively music of an organ. The goblins proceed to take Gabriel Grubb away and show him the past and the future, much like in A Christmas Carol. As the story goes, “Above all, [Gabriel] saw that men like himself, who snarled at the mirth and cheerfulness of others, were the foulest weeds on the fair surface of the earth; and setting all the good of the world against the evil,…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/virginia-delegation-calls-for-consideration-of-joint-base-langley-eustis-for-new-air-national-guard-cyber-operations-squadron	Virginia Delegation Calls For Consideration Of Joint Base Langley-Eustis For New Air National Guard Cyber Operations Squadron	2014-12-22	2014	2014-12	Democrat	House	VA	Tim Kaine	K000384	www.kaine.senate.gov	legacy	Virginia Delegation Calls For Consideration Of Joint Base Langley-Eustis For New Air National Guard Cyber Operations Squadron Recent high profile cybersecurity breaches heighten need for skilled personnel to manage cyber defense system Monday, December 22, 2014 WASHINGTON, D.C. – In a joint letter, U.S. Senators Mark Warner, Tim Kaine and U.S. Congressmen Bobby Scott, Randy Forbes, Scott Rigell, Rob Wittman and Gerry Connolly urged the Director of the Air National Guard to consider the Virginia Air National Guard at Joint Base Langley-Eustis as a designation for an Air Force Space Command’s Cyber Operations Squadron (COS). “Our nation’s defense depends upon a robust and innovative cyber force that is trained and ready to respond to dynamic threats,” the members wrote. “Attacks and intrusions on internal and external networks and cyber systems can directly impair continuity of government operations and even continuity of government itself. We believe the Virginia Air National Guard (VANG) is an excellent candidate for a COS due to a highly skilled workforce, existing training and security infrastructure in the region, and alignment of existing missions currently located at JBLE.” The full text of the letter can be found below: Lieutenant General Stanley E. Clarke III Director, Air National Guard 1000 Air Force Pentagon, 5C1052 Washington, D.C. 20330-1000 Dear Lieutenant General Clarke: Cybersecurity is one of the greatest challenges for our national security today and in the future. Our military, government and local communities depend upon secure and reliable cyberspace for critical infrastructure, communications, and coordination. To counter the persistent cyber threat, it is crucial that the Cyber Mission Force (CMF) be manned and trained with highly skilled personnel. As the Air National Guard considers the laydown of its Cyber Mission Forces, we request that you strongly consider the Virginia Air National Guard at Joint Base Langley-Eustis …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=50ed9f7c-c418-43a7-8105-56c0762cef64	Sen. Warner Asks DDOT, Capitol Crossing Development for I 395 Traffic Impact Analysis	2014-12-22	2014	2014-12	Democrat	House	VA	Mark Warner	W000805	www.warner.senate.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON – U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) today asked the District of Columbia Department of Transportation (DDOT) and the developer of the planned Capitol Crossing project to provide information on the impacts of planned highway and ramp restrictions on the 90,000 vehicles using the Third Street Tunnel along Interstate 395 each day. District officials and the Federal Highway Administration recently rejected the builder’s proposal to completely close a section of the interstate for up to 18 months during the construction of Capitol Crossing, and current plans call for restrictions on 395 traffic flows during overnight and weekend hours. In letters today to DDOT and developer Property Group Partners, Sen. Warner expressed concerns about proposed ramp and lane closures required to facilitate construction, questioned the lack of coordination with regional and Virginia transportation agencies, and requested details and a briefing on the traffic impact analysis conducted in support of the planned overnight and weekend closures impacting I395. “The developer’s failure to contact any Virginia transportation planners, and its last-minute decision to brief Virginia elected officials less three weeks before construction is scheduled to begin, defies this region’s efforts to work in a collaborative way,” Sen. Warner said. “I want those who are leading this project to demonstrate they conducted appropriate due diligence on every possible alternative to disruption of one of the most highly-traveled and easily congested corridors in the region.” The texts of the two letters are below: December 22, 2014 Matthew Brown Director District Department of Transportation 55 M Street SE, Suite 400 Washington, DC 20003 Dear Mr. Brown: Recent news reports have drawn attention to your proposal to fully close portions of Interstate 395 (I-395) in order to speed construction of the $1.5 billion Capitol Crossing project in downtown Washington, D.C. I applaud the decision to withdraw the proposal, given the massive con…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.kaine.senate.gov/tim-in-the-news/sundays-top-opinion-kaines-majority	Sunday's Top Opinion: Kaine's majority	2014-12-21	2014	2014-12	Democrat	House	VA	Tim Kaine	K000384	www.kaine.senate.gov	legacy	Sunday's Top Opinion: Kaine's majority By: Editorial Board Sunday, December 21, 2014 Washington’s political culture suffers from many deficiencies, not least among them a team-sports approach to politics that elevates superficial point-scoring above questions of substance and weight. Virginia Sen. Tim Kaine has marched admirably against those headwinds. Kaine himself has conceded that politics is a team sport. But he has risen above it through his dogged determination to produce a serious debate over war powers, particularly regarding U.S. military action against the Islamic State. He has succeeded in no small part because his key points are beyond dispute. First, President Obama has exceeded his constitutional authority by acting unilaterally (and in contravention of his own stated principles). The Islamic State does not present an immediate threat to the U.S. homeland requiring a response too rapid to permit congressional deliberation. Second, Congress has abetted Obama’s behavior by abdicating its responsibility to lead. Many in Congress are happy to see the U.S. take action against ISIS, and equally happy to let the president take all the political risks such action entails. Kaine rightly has condemned such cravenness. The country’s leaders have no business asking young men and women to risk their lives on behalf of a cause for which they are not even willing to risk a vote. Thanks to the junior senator’s leadership, the Senate Foreign Relations Committee has now approved a measure authorizing force against the Islamic State. It includes an expiration date and provisions to repeal or revise two now-defunct authorizations for the use of force that Obama has used as the legal pretext for acting alone. Kaine’s insistence on h…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.kaine.senate.gov/tim-in-the-news/virginias-sen-kaine-grows-as-a-foreign-policy-expert	Virginia's Sen. Kaine grows as a foreign policy expert	2014-12-21	2014	2014-12	Democrat	House	VA	Tim Kaine	K000384	www.kaine.senate.gov	legacy	Virginia's Sen. Kaine grows as a foreign policy expert By: Bob Stuart Sunday, December 21, 2014 WASHINGTON -- Sen. Tim Kaine has a list of global concerns, but that list is topped by the threat posed by the terrorist group ISIS. Since June, Virginia's junior U.S. senator has argued that Congress needs to authorize military force against ISIS. That policy stand received a boost when the Senate Foreign Relations Committee voted 10-8 earlier this month for the use of military force against ISIS. Because the full Senate didn't vote before adjournment, similar action on ISIS will be needed by the Foreign Relations Committee when the 114th Congress takes office next month. Kaine, D-Va., interviewed recently in his Washington office, said the authorization is clear and simple. Many of the provisions Kaine suggested are in the committee's action. "It defines the scope of the mission. This is Congress meeting its constitutional authorization,'' he said. The authorization calls for air strikes, prohibits U.S. ground troops except to rescue troops and U.S. citizens and offers humanitarian aid. The authorization also has a three-year sunset. ISIS poses the most serious immediate international challenge to the United States, said Kaine, a member of both the Senate Foreign Relations and Armed Services committees. He also considers the stopping of an Iranian nuclear program a significant challenge, and said Russia's ambitions are serious. And there is the wild card of North Korea, Kaine said. He said the Asian country has "a degree of unpredictability." He is concerned about what North Korea might trigger among its neighboring countries. A week after the interview with Kaine, North Korea was suspected by the United States of a cyberattack on S…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://connolly.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=710	President Signs Issa-Connolly Federal IT Acquisition Reform Act	2014-12-19	2014	2014-12	Democrat	House	VA	Gerald Connolly	C001078	connolly.house.gov	legacy	Bipartisan legislation overhauling how the federal government purchases, implements, and manages information technology is now law. Read more. share: f t Bipartisan legislation overhauling how the federal government purchases, implements, and manages information technology is now law. The legislation -- co-authored by House Oversight and Government Reform Committee Chairman Darrell Issa (R-CA) and Oversight Government Operations Subcommittee Ranking Member Gerry Connolly (D-VA) -- was included as Title 8 of the Carl Levin and Howard P. “Buck” McKeon National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2015. President Obama signed the legislation on Friday.The Office of Management and Budget estimates the Issa-Connolly legislation could save taxpayers $2.5 billion over the next fiscal year and $20 billion or more over the next decade by enhancing information technology (IT) capabilities and eliminating waste and duplication of services across government.“Over the last several years, Chairman Issa and I have worked together to develop and pass the first major comprehensive reform of the laws governing how the federal government manages information technology since the 1996 enactment of the seminal Clinger-Cohen Act,” Connolly said. “A lot has changed in the world of technology and in the federal government’s use of technology since that time, and the need to streamline and strengthen how government buys and manages technology is long overdue.“Pointing to the frustrating rollout of the original Healthcare.gov website in 2013 and similar problems in 2005 when the federal government first unveiled its Medicare Part D website, which failed to function for the first three weeks after its launch date, Connolly said the bill would take major steps to fix the broken federal information technology acquisition process. “Quite frankly, the federal government has no idea what technology it needs, struggles to manage what it has, and consequently wastes billions of ta…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-battlefield-protection-bill-becomes-law	Kaine Battlefield Protection Bill Becomes Law	2014-12-19	2014	2014-12	Democrat	House	VA	Tim Kaine	K000384	www.kaine.senate.gov	legacy	Kaine Battlefield Protection Bill Becomes Law Friday, December 19, 2014 WASHINGTON, D.C. – The American Battlefield Protection Program Amendments Act, a bipartisan bill introduced by U.S. Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA) and Thad Cochran (R-MS) and U.S. Representatives Rob Wittman (R-VA) and Rush Holt (D-NJ), was signed into law by President Obama today following passage by both houses of Congress as part of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) of 2015 last week. The legislation reauthorizes a National Park Service program that partners with landowners to preserve Civil War battlefields at risk of being lost to haphazard development. It will make Revolutionary War and War of 1812 battlefield sites eligible as well. Kaine first announced the legislation at Slaughter Pen Farm at Fredericksburg Battlefield in May 2013. “Virginia is home to battlefields on which American soldiers gave their last full measure of devotion to bring about the nation we know today. Passage of this legislation helps preserve that land, allowing future generations to visit and reflect on our history,” said Kaine. “While it would be worth passing this legislation on that basis alone, battlefield preservation also helps drive local economies in small towns and helps preserve the rural character of fast-growing communities in our Commonwealth. I applaud my colleague Senator Cochran and our House partners Congressmen Wittman and Holt for the bipartisan cooperation that led to passage of this bill.” “We are enormously grateful for Senator Kaine’s efforts to have this legislation included in the National Defense Authorization Act, and I commend him for his ongoing commitment to ensuring the protection of our nation’s battlefields,” said Civil War Trust president James Lighthizer. “We are blessed to have him as a staunch ally working towards our shared goals. His visionary leadership is directly responsible for the protection of thousands of acres of hallowed ground, both across Virginia and nation-…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://connolly.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=709	Warner, Kaine, Connolly Applaud Closing on Final TIFIA Loans for Silver Line Construction	2014-12-18	2014	2014-12	Democrat	House	VA	Gerald Connolly	C001078	connolly.house.gov	legacy	Members of Virginia's congressional delegation applauded news that U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx has closed on the final two low-interest loans to fund construction of Phase Two of the Metrorail Silver Line extension to Dulles Airport and Loudoun County. Read more. share: f t Warner, Kaine, Connolly Applaud Closing on Final TIFIA Loans for Silver Line ConstructionFederal financing for Phase Two will help lower overall cost of projectMembers of Virginia’s congressional delegation applauded news that U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx has closed on the final two low-interest loans to fund construction of Phase Two of the Metrorail Silver Line extension to Dulles Airport and Loudoun County. Senators Mark Warner and Tim Kaine, Congressman Gerry Connolly, and retiring Congressmen Jim Moran and Frank Wolf worked for months with Secretary Foxx and his predecessor Ray LaHood to secure a total of $1.9 billion in loans for the project. The Silver Line funding is the largest loan for a single project in the TIFIA program’s history. Thursday afternoon, DOT closed on a $403 million TIFIA loan for Fairfax County and a $195 million TIFIA loan for Loudoun County to fund Phase Two construction. In August, DOT closed on the initial $1.28 billion TIFIA loan to the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority (MWAA).“The first phase of the Silver Line has been an overwhelming success, and we look forward to ensuring the second half is just as successful,” Secretary Foxxsaid.“Today marks another significant milestone for Rail to Dulles as we finalize a very complex financing package for the project,” said Senator Warner. “I congratulate all of our partners on this successful step. Now we can shift our focus to completing construction as soon, as efficiently and as safely as possible.”“I applaud this final financing step for Phase Two of the Silver Line,” Senator Kaine said. “This project will boost the vitality of Dulles International Airport and imp…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-meets-with-eastern-shore-chamber-of-commerce-visits-house-raising-project-in-norfolk	Kaine Meets With Eastern Shore Chamber Of Commerce, Visits House-Raising Project In Norfolk	2014-12-18	2014	2014-12	Democrat	House	VA	Tim Kaine	K000384	www.kaine.senate.gov	legacy	Kaine Meets With Eastern Shore Chamber Of Commerce, Visits House-Raising Project In Norfolk Thursday, December 18, 2014 WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine continued his three-day tour through Virginia with a visit to Melfa to deliver remarks at the Eastern Shore Chamber of Commerce Eggs & Issues breakfast. Throughout his remarks, Kaine highlighted the importance of workforce development and economic growth in the region. Following the Eggs & Issues breakfast, Kaine traveled to Norfolk to receive a briefing on the city’s efforts to plan for sea level rise and visit the site of an ongoing house-raising project in one of the areas of Norfolk most severely impacted by recurrent flooding. “Hampton Roads has already become a national leader in pulling together local, state, federal and military, university, private sector, even philanthropic organizations to plan what to do on sea level rise, and we need to encourage that kind of regional planning,” Kaine said. “Hampton Roads is really at the front end of that. There are a number of ways I feel the federal government can be helpful.” Following the visit to Norfolk, Kaine, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, traveled to Fort Eustis to visit the Maritime Training Directorate and discuss his work to help servicemembers acquire credentials that would ease their transition into the civilian workforce. Tomorrow, Kaine will complete his three-day tour of the Commonwealth by joining members of his staff and other volunteers for a Citizen Day service project at the Colonial Heights Food Pantry to distribute food to residents from the City of Colonial Heights and the Matoaca and Ettrick areas of Chesterfield County. Citizen Days are opportunities for Kaine to share his passion for public service by bringing Virginians together to participate in service projects across the Commonwealth. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/warner-kaine-connolly-applaud-closing-on-final-tifia-loans-for-silver-line-construction	Warner, Kaine, Connolly Applaud Closing On Final TIFIA Loans For Silver Line Construction	2014-12-18	2014	2014-12	Democrat	House	VA	Tim Kaine	K000384	www.kaine.senate.gov	legacy	Warner, Kaine, Connolly Applaud Closing On Final TIFIA Loans For Silver Line Construction Thursday, December 18, 2014 WASHINGTON – Members of Virginia’s congressional delegation applauded news that U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx has closed on the final two low-interest loans to fund construction of Phase Two of the Metrorail Silver Line extension to Dulles Airport and Loudoun County. Senators Mark Warner and Tim Kaine, Congressman Gerry Connolly, and retiring Congressmen Jim Moran and Frank Wolf worked for months with Secretary Foxx and his predecessor Ray LaHood to secure a total of $1.9 billion in loans for the project. The Silver Line funding is the largest loan for a single project in the TIFIA program’s history. Thursday afternoon, DOT closed on a $403 million TIFIA loan for Fairfax County and a $195 million TIFIA loan for Loudoun County to fund Phase Two construction. In August, DOT closed on the initial $1.28 billion TIFIA loan to the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority (MWAA). “The first phase of the Silver Line has been an overwhelming success, and we look forward to ensuring the second half is just as successful,” Secretary Foxx said. “Today marks another significant milestone for Rail to Dulles as we finalize a very complex financing package for the project,” said Senator Warner. “I congratulate all of our partners on this successful step. Now we can shift our focus to completing construction as soon, as efficiently and as safely as possible.” “I applaud this final financing step for Phase Two of the Silver Line,” Senator Kaine said. “This project will boost the vitality of Dulles International Airport and improve daily life for thousands of commuters along the Dulles corridor.” "Phase One, connecting Tysons and Reston, has already created new commuting, employment, housing, and entertainment options for residents across the National Capital Region,” said Congressman Connolly. “The TIFIA loans will lower the overall cost of constru…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-sobre-la-liberacion-de-alan-gross-relaciones-de-ee-uu-y-cuba	Kaine Sobre La Liberacion De Alan Gross, Relaciones De Ee Uu Y Cuba	2014-12-17	2014	2014-12	Democrat	House	VA	Tim Kaine	K000384	www.kaine.senate.gov	legacy	Kaine Sobre La Liberacion De Alan Gross, Relaciones De Ee Uu Y Cuba Wednesday, December 17, 2014 WASHINGTON, DC - El senador Tim Kaine, un miembro del Comité de Relaciones Exteriores del Senado, hizo las siguientes declaraciones sobre Cuba: "Estoy muy contento sobre el anuncio hoy de la liberación de Alan Gross y le deseo lo mejor mientras se reúne con su familia y seres queridos. Su liberación marca una victoria para la diplomacia estadounidense. Me gustaría darle gracias a el Papa Francisco y al gobierno Canadiense por su papel como intermediarios en este esfuerzo. Nuestra relación con Cuba no va a cambiar de un día al otro–los derechos civiles y la libertad política son temas importantes que vamos a seguir insistiendo a que el gobierno Cubano trabaje en ellos. Pero como demostró el restablecimiento de las relaciones diplomáticas con Vietnam, el diálogo abierto a menudo es más eficaz que el aislamiento cuando se trata de promover los intereses estadounidenses y valores democráticos." ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-statement-on-release-of-alan-gross-us-cuba-relations-	Kaine Statement On Release Of Alan Gross, U.S.-Cuba Relations	2014-12-17	2014	2014-12	Democrat	House	VA	Tim Kaine	K000384	www.kaine.senate.gov	legacy	Kaine Statement On Release Of Alan Gross, U.S.-Cuba Relations Wednesday, December 17, 2014 WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tim Kaine, a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, released the following statement on Cuba: “I am overjoyed by today’s announcement of Alan Gross’s release and wish him the very best as he reunites with his family and loved ones. His release marks a victory for American diplomacy. I’d like to especially thank Pope Francis and the Canadian government for their role as intermediaries in this effort.” “Our relationship with Cuba will not change overnight – human rights and political freedom are important concerns that we will continue to raise with the Cuban government. But as the reestablishment of U.S. diplomatic ties with Vietnam proved, engagement rather than isolation is often more effective at advancing American interests and democratic values. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-visits-wallops-flight-facility-meets-with-chincoteague-business-leaders	Kaine Visits Wallops Flight Facility, Meets With Chincoteague Business Leaders	2014-12-17	2014	2014-12	Democrat	House	VA	Tim Kaine	K000384	www.kaine.senate.gov	legacy	Kaine Visits Wallops Flight Facility, Meets With Chincoteague Business Leaders Wednesday, December 17, 2014 WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine began his three-day tour through Virginia with a visit to the Wallops Flight Facility to tour the damaged launch pad and meet with representatives from the Mid-Atlantic Regional Spaceport, NASA, Virginia Commercial Space Flight Authority, and Orbital Sciences. Kaine also met with first responders who were on call the night of the launch failure on October 28 and helped put out the fires caused by the explosion. Last week, Kaine and Senator Mark Warner announced that Wallops Flight Facility will receive $20 million in federal funding - a result of their efforts to secure additional funding to support repairs following the launch failure. "Wallops Flight Facility is such a critical asset for Virginia that will continue to play a key role in the nation's great tradition of vigorous space exploration," said Kaine. "We worked very hard to get $20 million into the budget which will be valuable to Wallops as it makes repairs. It was helpful to see the damage firsthand today, but also see how remarkably well the infrastructure fared, partly thanks to good planning by NASA Wallops and the Mid-Atlantic Regional Spaceport and partly to the swift response by our brave first responders that night. I was proud of our work to bring Orbital Sciences to Wallops as Governor and I am grateful that my work in the Senate, especially on the Budget Committee, allows me to continue supporting Wallops Flight Facility at the federal level." Following the visit to Wallops Island, Kaine held a roundtable discussion in Chincoteague with members of the Chincoteague Chamber of Commerce, as well as area business and tourism leaders, to discuss issues impacting small businesses, as well as the important economic role that NASA Wallops plays on the Eastern Shore and the effect the Antares rocket failure has had on the local economy. Tomorrow, Kaine wil…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/senate-confirms-elizabeth-dillon-to-western-district-federal-bench	Senate Confirms Elizabeth Dillon To Western District Federal Bench	2014-12-17	2014	2014-12	Democrat	House	VA	Tim Kaine	K000384	www.kaine.senate.gov	legacy	Senate Confirms Elizabeth Dillon To Western District Federal Bench Dillon to serve as the first woman on the Western District of Virginia U.S. District Court Wednesday, December 17, 2014 WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine today applauded the Senate’s confirmation of Elizabeth K. Dillon to serve as a United States District Judge for the Western District of Virginia. Ms. Dillon, an attorney in Salem and a former assistant city attorney for Roanoke, will be the first woman to serve as a judge for the Western District in its nearly 200 years of existence. “We are pleased that the Senate has confirmed an exceptionally qualified individual to serve in the Western District of Virginia. Ms. Dillon has received widespread support, including from the Virginia State Bar and the American Bar Association. Ms. Dillon consistently demonstrates exemplary character and a passion for pro bono work. We are confident that Ms. Dillon’s demeanor and her significant experience in Virginia’s state and federal courts, both in the public and private sector, will make her an invaluable addition to the court,” the Senators said. Sens. Warner and Kaine recommended Ms. Dillon to the President in June. The White House nominated her in September, and the Senate Judiciary Committee endorsed her nomination on Dec. 11. # # #	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=00e53466-e45c-43b0-9038-7d97c185d1b8	Senate Confirms Elizabeth Dillon to Western District Federal Bench	2014-12-17	2014	2014-12	Democrat	House	VA	Mark Warner	W000805	www.warner.senate.gov	legacy	U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine today applauded the Senate’s confirmation of Elizabeth K. Dillon to serve as a United States District Judge for the Western District of Virginia. Ms. Dillon, an attorney in Salem and a former assistant city attorney for Roanoke, will be the first woman to serve as a judge for the Western District in its nearly 200 years of existence. “We are pleased that the Senate has confirmed an exceptionally qualified individual to serve in the Western District of Virginia. Ms. Dillon has received widespread support, including from the Virginia State Bar and the American Bar Association. Ms. Dillon consistently demonstrates exemplary character and a passion for pro bono work. We are confident that Ms. Dillon’s demeanor and her significant experience in Virginia’s state and federal courts, both in the public and private sector, will make her an invaluable addition to the court,” the Senators said. Sens. Warner and Kaine recommended Ms. Dillon to the President in June. The White House nominated her in September, and the Senate Judiciary Committee endorsed her nomination on Dec. 11.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://morgangriffith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398379	Griffith to McAuliffe: Do Not Carry On the War on Coal	2014-12-16	2014	2014-12	Republican	House	VA	Morgan Griffith	G000568	morgangriffith.house.gov	legacy	Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA) today issued the following statement regarding reports that Governor Terry McAuliffe (D-VA) will soon be proposing to limit State tax credits and deductions that assist coal producers with coalfield jobs and electricity generation: “Coal-producing regions such as the Ninth District of Virginia are already reeling from job losses resulting from federal regulations and the Obama Administration’s ongoing war on coal. Sadly, now it seems our State Executive will soon be declaring his own war on coal as well.” “Governor McAuliffe claims to want jobs, economic growth, and to ‘put Virginia first.’ But one may question the motive behind his reported policies.” “As I have said repeatedly, the war on coal, while targeting the coal industry, affects us all. Those working in the coalfields suffer as a result of these policies, but also harmed are the industries that rely on coal mines. When coal jobs are cut, the people who supply materials to the coal mines, those operating the trains carrying the coal, and the people working in the ports that ship the coal are all impacted. And when the work stops below the ground in coal-producing communities, life above ground is impacted as well, hurting the livelihoods of many in the surrounding communities.” “Under the Constitution of Virginia, the State has an obligation to make sure educational opportunities are equal throughout the State. The continued war on coal makes it even harder on coal-producing localities to fund K-12 education. To make up for the dollars these localities are losing by virtue of the actions of the Obama Administration in Washington and now his Administration in Richmond, Governor McAuliffe should also be increasing the amount of money from the State Treasury going to these communities. Absent significant new expenditures for education in coal-producing parts of Southwest Virginia, I fear the Governor’s proposals are short-sighted.” “I have one message for those waging the war on coal: end the war on coal so …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-extends-condolences-to-pakistani-terror-victims	Kaine Extends Condolences To Pakistani Terror Victims	2014-12-16	2014	2014-12	Democrat	House	VA	Tim Kaine	K000384	www.kaine.senate.gov	legacy	Kaine Extends Condolences To Pakistani Terror Victims Tuesday, December 16, 2014 WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tim Kaine, Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on Near Eastern and South and Central Asian Affairs and a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement on today’s terrorist attack in Peshawar. “I extend my deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims of today’s heinous terrorist attack on the Army Public School in Peshawar, Pakistan. I am shocked and appalled by this senseless act of violence against students and teachers and join the international community in strongly condemning the perpetrators. The barbarity and desperation of these terrorists is no match for the courage and resilience of the people of Pakistan. The United States remains committed to supporting Pakistan in its efforts to root out terrorism and extremism in the region.” ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://morgangriffith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398378	Congressman Griffith's Weekly E-Newsletter 12.15.14	2014-12-15	2014	2014-12	Republican	House	VA	Morgan Griffith	G000568	morgangriffith.house.gov	legacy	More on Ending the Modern Filibuster Rule On many occasions, I have taken issue with the modern interpretation of the Senate filibuster rule. When I last wrote on this topic in a newsletter, it was just before this year’s elections. Control of the Senate had not yet been determined. As I have said previously, this is not a partisan issue. On running the government efficiently, it might not matter which party wins the majority if the Senate rules are not changed. Whether or not you agree with Republican policies, come January 6, the Republican party will be in control of both the House and the Senate. I strongly believe that in November, the American people voted for change. I also strongly believe that the modern filibuster – which requires a super majority in order to make a decision on any issue of significance – violates the spirit of the Founding Fathers’ intent to have a majority rule Republic based on Democratic principles. They never intended for a significant portion of the Senate’s business to be blocked by a minority. The historical rule – as depicted in Mr. Smith Goes to Washington when Jimmy Stewart holds the floor with an impassioned filibuster that slowly changes the minds of his fellow senators – is a good process. But starting in the 1970’s, a senator can filibuster by merely making a request. This is generally called a “hold.” Adding insult to injury, the senator’s identity doesn’t even have to be made public. I had been hopeful that a Senate Republican majority might see that this modern filibuster rule is a threat to the long-term stability of the Republic, and revert to the historical rule. Instead, unfortunately, some in the Senate seem unwilling to return to the historical filibuster rule, and are already making apologies. By apologies, I mean they are telling us in the House and their constituents that they can’t get everything done the voters want because they still don’t have 60 votes. But as I quipped to one new Senator-elect recently, “It’s only a 60 vote requirement because …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-urges-department-of-education-to-provide-information-on-sexual-assault-investigations	Kaine Urges Department Of Education To Provide Information On Sexual Assault Investigations	2014-12-15	2014	2014-12	Democrat	House	VA	Tim Kaine	K000384	www.kaine.senate.gov	legacy	Kaine Urges Department Of Education To Provide Information On Sexual Assault Investigations Monday, December 15, 2014 WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tim Kaine submitted a letter to U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan addressing the current issues associated with sexual violence on college campuses. In the letter, Kaine applauded the Department of Education (ED) for initiating its Title IX investigations into how campuses handle sexual assault but requested that ED disclose more information regarding the progress of these investigations. “Sexual violence is a serious issue facing our nation, and we have concerns about the enforcement of sexual violence policies and the rights of survivors,” Kaine wrote. “While the specific details of these investigations are understandably confidential, there is a great deal that colleges and universities can learn from the findings to improve campus culture and campus sexual violence prevention policies. We request that the Department disclose best practices and consistent gaps that the Office of Civil Rights has found in school policy so that institutions can take proactive measures in their efforts to prevent sexual violence on campuses.” In the letter, Kaine noted that many of the Title IX investigations have been open for years and while he is pleased thorough investigations are taking place, it is important that they are completed in a timely manner. Senators Mark Warner, Dianne Feinstein, Al Franken, and Amy Klobuchar co-signed the letter. The full text of Kaine’s letter to Secretary Duncan can be found here. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.kaine.senate.gov/tim-in-the-news/tim-kaine-bridge-builder	Tim Kaine, bridge builder?	2014-12-14	2014	2014-12	Democrat	House	VA	Tim Kaine	K000384	www.kaine.senate.gov	legacy	Tim Kaine, bridge builder? By: Fred Hiatt Sunday, December 14, 2014 With Elizabeth Warren following the Ted Cruz model last week, imploring the House faithful to defy their president even at risk of a government shutdown, you had to wonder: Is the Democratic Party heading for a schism that could rival the tea party-establishment battles on the Republican side? Warren has established herself as a leader of an anti-Wall Street, economic-populist left. Her side of the party is suspicious of international trade, big business and the economists and financiers who defined Clintonomics in the 1990s. The party’s more moderate branch, meanwhile, has been battered by electoral losses in red states, rhetorical attacks from the left for being corporate apologists or worse, and, most of all, the stagnation of middle-class incomes. The slowing of economic mobility seems to undermine the Clintonian premise that economic growth, rather than income redistribution, should be government’s primary goal. Is there a way to bridge the divide as the party gears up for 2016? One Democrat wrestling with that question is Tim Kaine, Virginia’s junior senator. “Traditionally we’ve had a spectrum of views in our party, but we haven’t had wings,” Kaine said during a visit to The Post last week. “I’m a little concerned that we might be moving toward wings.” If it is true that voters get the leaders they deserve, then Virginians are doing something right, because their Senate delegation of Mark Warner and Kaine is among the nation’s most capable. At first glance the two also seem interchangeable: They are both pragmatic former Democratic governors who tried to work across the aisle in a purple state. But whereas Warner has branded himself as defiantly bipart…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.kaine.senate.gov/tim-in-the-news/war-authorization-against-the-islamic-state-should-be-a-priority	War authorization against the Islamic State should be a priority	2014-12-14	2014	2014-12	Democrat	House	VA	Tim Kaine	K000384	www.kaine.senate.gov	legacy	War authorization against the Islamic State should be a priority By: Editorial Board Sunday, December 14, 2014 AMONG THE business that Congress will leave unfinished this month is legal authorization of the war against the Islamic State. Though the war has been underway for five months, President Obama has said he would welcome legislation, and congressional leaders have denounced the president’s unilateral actions in other spheres, neither the White House nor Congress has made a passage of an Authorization for Use of Military Force a priority. That puts the ongoing military operations on shaky legal ground and deprives them of the political mandate they ought to have. Democrats on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee did succeed in forcing a committee vote last week on an authorization that would have sanctioned three years of military operations against the Islamic State while repealing the 2002 authorization of force for Iraq. Both the Obama administration and Republicans objected to limits the legislation placed on the use of ground forces. While trainers and some special forces missions were allowed, the more general use of ground forces was prohibited. Sen. Tim Kaine (D-Va.), one of the few in Congress to push hard for an authorizing vote, argues that if U.S. troops were needed to head off an attack on the United States — the circumstance Mr. Obama has cited that would alter his own opposition to combat forces — the president could act under his constitutional authority. That dodges the more simple and sensible conclusion that Congress’s role is to authorize wars and their aims, not micromanage how they are waged. As Secretary of State John F. Kerry told the Foreign Relations Committee, it would be a mistake to “preemptivel…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=69fb64d8-3198-40b0-b15b-4036a518651f	Sens. Warner & Kaine Applaud Virginia Priorities Included in Spending Bill	2014-12-14	2014	2014-12	Democrat	House	VA	Mark Warner	W000805	www.warner.senate.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine applauded Saturday night's Senate passage of the compromise spending legislation for fiscal year 2015, which keeps 90% of the federal government funded through next September. The legislation includes funding for several top priorities for Virginia, including the refueling and overhaul of the aircraft carrier George Washington, full funding for Washington’s Metro transit system, funds to repair the damages at NASA’s Wallops Flight Facility on Virginia’s Eastern Shore, and funds for a cost-of-living increase for federal workers. The agreement largely maintains the spending caps that Congress and the White House agreed to last year. “We shouldn't allow the perfect to be the enemy of the good. This package avoids the damage and disruption of another government shutdown, and it honors the spending caps that Republicans and Democrats in the House and Senate agreed-to last year,” Sen. Warner said. “The Virginia delegation worked together to make sure our priorities received fair consideration, and I am very pleased we’ve been able to maintain support for projects and programs that create jobs, strengthen economic opportunity and improve the quality-of-life in every region of the Commonwealth.” "I’m happy we have a bipartisan appropriations bill that provides critical programs with certainty through the remainder of the fiscal year 2015,” Sen. Kaine said. “This bill includes important funding for priorities across Virginia that we have fought for throughout the year, including significant funding for repairs at NASA Wallops, maintaining our 11 aircraft carrier fleet, supporting shipbuilding in Hampton Roads, transportation funding in Northern Virginia, and funding for the Gabriella Miller Kids First Research Act,” said Kaine. “While I am disappointed that full-year funding for the Department of Homeland Security is held up and a measure to weaken Wall Street regulations has been included, I'm optimistic this legislation is a step in the right direction to…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-warner-applaud-virginia-priorities-included-in-compromise-spending-bill	Kaine, Warner Applaud Virginia Priorities Included In Compromise Spending Bill	2014-12-13	2014	2014-12	Democrat	House	VA	Tim Kaine	K000384	www.kaine.senate.gov	legacy	Kaine, Warner Applaud Virginia Priorities Included In Compromise Spending Bill Legislation includes top priorities for Virginia delegation Saturday, December 13, 2014 WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine applauded Saturday night's Senate passage of the compromise spending legislation for fiscal year 2015, which keeps 90% of the federal government funded through next September. The legislation includes funding for several top priorities for Virginia, including the refueling and overhaul of the aircraft carrier George Washington, full funding for Washington’s Metro transit system, funds to repair the damages at NASA’s Wallops Flight Facility on Virginia’s Eastern Shore, and funds for a cost-of-living increase for federal workers. The agreement largely maintains the spending caps that Congress and the White House agreed to last year. “We shouldn't allow the perfect to be the enemy of the good. This package avoids the damage and disruption of another government shutdown, and it honors the spending caps that Republicans and Democrats in the House and Senate agreed-to last year,” Sen. Warner said. “The Virginia delegation worked together to make sure our priorities received fair consideration, and I am very pleased we’ve been able to maintain support for projects and programs that create jobs, strengthen economic opportunity and improve the quality-of-life in every region of the Commonwealth.” "I’m happy we have a bipartisan appropriations bill that provides critical programs with certainty through the remainder of the fiscal year 2015,” Sen. Kaine said. “This bill includes important funding for priorities across Virginia that we have fought for throughout the year, including significant funding for repairs at NASA Wallops, maintaining our 11 aircraft carrier fleet, supporting shipbuilding in Hampton Roads, transportation funding in Northern Virginia, and funding for the Gabriella Miller Kids First Research Act,” said Kaine. “While I am disappo…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-adds-senate-aging-committee-to-list-of-committee-assignments-for-114th-congress	Kaine Adds Senate Aging Committee To List Of Committee Assignments For 114th Congress	2014-12-12	2014	2014-12	Democrat	House	VA	Tim Kaine	K000384	www.kaine.senate.gov	legacy	Kaine Adds Senate Aging Committee To List Of Committee Assignments For 114th Congress Friday, December 12, 2014 WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine was selected to serve on the Senate Special Committee on Aging for the 114th Congress. The Senate Committee memberships for the 114th Congress are subject to ratification by the Democratic caucus and the Senate when the 114th Congress convenes in January. “I’m honored to have been asked to serve on the Senate Special Committee on Aging, where I’ll focus on a wide range of issues impacting older Americans, from Medicare and Social Security to protecting seniors from fraud and abuse,” said Kaine. “I look forward to working with my colleagues from both parties to address the challenges facing seniors in Virginia and across the country.” Kaine will also continue to serve on the Senate Armed Services, Foreign Relations and Budget Committees in the 114th Congress. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.kaine.senate.gov/tim-in-the-news/virginias-damaged-launch-pad-could-get-20-million-from-federal-budget	Virginia's damaged launch pad could get $20 million from federal budget	2014-12-12	2014	2014-12	Democrat	House	VA	Tim Kaine	K000384	www.kaine.senate.gov	legacy	Virginia's damaged launch pad could get $20 million from federal budget By: Tamara Dietrich Friday, December 12, 2014 The launch pad at Virginia's spaceport on Wallops Island that was damaged by a rocket explosion in October could get $20 million to fully fund needed repairs under a provision included in the proposed $1.1 trillion federal spending bill for fiscal year 2015. Democratic senators Mark Warner and Tim Kaine announced Thursday they'd sought the spending provision in an effort to help the Mid-Atlantic Regional Spaceport, known as MARS, "rebound" from that catastrophic launch failure. MARS is located at the NASA Wallops Flight Facility on the Eastern Shore. Virginia's Secretary of Transportation Aubrey Layne has estimated the damage to the facility at up to $20 million. But the spaceport is state-owned, and state officials have said they didn't know where that money would come from. "The Wallops Flight Facility is a key asset to Virginia that will continue to play a major role in the future of NASA and space exploration," Warner and Kaine said in a joint statement on their funding efforts. It was unclear at press time Thursday, however, if that spending bill would survive intact as Democrats objected to banking and campaign-finance provisions and Republicans faltered in getting the necessary votes to pass it. The state built MARS to accommodate Dulles-based Orbital Sciences Corp.'s medium-lift Antares rocket after Orbital won a $1.9 billion commercial contract with NASA to resupply the International Space Station. State leaders hope to turn MARS into a major hub for the commercial space flight industry. But on Orbital's third resupply mission on Oct. 28, the Antares' first-stage engine malfunctioned seconds after l…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://morgangriffith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398376	Griffith Statement on Government Spending Bill	2014-12-11	2014	2014-12	Republican	House	VA	Morgan Griffith	G000568	morgangriffith.house.gov	legacy	Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA) issued the following statement today after voting against the nine-month government spending bill: “As with all compromises, this bill includes a number of both good and bad items, which I often refer to as ‘candy apples’ and ‘toads,’ respectively. I understand that action must be taken, and I appreciate the hard work that has gone into this bill. However, I feel there are myriad reasons to oppose this particular compromise.” “I strongly believe that in November, the American people voted for change. Among the more than 400 House-passed bills currently sitting stalled in the Senate are a number of appropriations bills, which authorize funding for certain government activities such as national defense, homeland security, education, and others. In the normal course of business, there are supposed to be 12 appropriations bills, and these bills require regular (usually annual) authorization. The House of Representatives passed and sent 7 of these bills to the Senate this year, but Senate Democrats wouldn’t pass any of them, stiff-arming us and impeding regular order. Leadership in the House of Representatives decided not to have us vote on the remaining 5 because the Senate would not act.” “Compromise is part of the legislating process, and unfortunately Senate Democrats after the election are coming to the table with unclean hands because of their prior unwillingness to work with us. Therefore, following the November election, I repeatedly stated my belief that we ought to pass a short-term spending bill. Doing so would honor the will of the voters that we work out longer-term spending priorities with the newly elected Senate.” “Further, the process in bringing this bill forward in the House was flawed. This more than 1,600 page bill was released at approximately 8:15pm on Tuesday with a vote expected Thursday afternoon. For me, this is too short of a time frame in which to read, investigate, and maturely consider this lengthy spending legislation. I do not feel I wa…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://connolly.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=707	Connolly Statement on Cromnibus Funding Bill	2014-12-11	2014	2014-12	Democrat	House	VA	Gerald Connolly	C001078	connolly.house.gov	legacy	Congressman Gerald E. Connolly issued the following statement on the Cromnibus spending package. Read more. share: f t Congressman Gerald E. Connolly (D-VA) issued the following statement on the Cromnibus funding package.“The bill before the House today is not a perfect bill, and certainly not the bill I would have written. For me, and many of my colleagues, this represents another “hold-your-nose vote.” But it does represent some modicum of compromise that I hope carries Congress into a more productive New Year. “This package ensures that funding levels in the next fiscal year are more robust than we could hope for, and expect, from a GOP majority in both the House and Senate next Congress. “It also protects critical investments in our shared Northern Virginia priorities, specifically, maintaining the federal government’s $150 million commitment to Metro in partnership with Virginia, Maryland, and DC, expanding investments in research and development and medical research funding, and offering some budget certainty for our Northern Virginia contracting community that provides critical services to the federal government. “And, after years of enduring pay freezes, furloughs, and contributing more than $114 billion in deficit reduction – sacrifices no other group was asked to do -- federal employees will finally receive a pay raise. I will continue to push Congress to pass my FAIR Act legislation that would provide federal employees the true compensation they deserve, and I hope this is a signal of the end to the House majority’s unrelenting political demagoguery of our federal workforce.“While both sides of the aisle were forced to make sacrifices for this compromise, it troubles me that the House majority was once again unwilling to set aside its own ideological agenda. “House Republicans continued their assault on the environment, cutting funding to EPA by more than $2.2 billion from 2010 levels, almost a 21% reduction, and scaling back Clean Water Act …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://connolly.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=708	Connolly to Hold 22nd Telephone Town Hall Meeting	2014-12-11	2014	2014-12	Democrat	House	VA	Gerald Connolly	C001078	connolly.house.gov	legacy	As the 113th Congress draws to a close, Congressman Gerry Connolly will hold his 22nd Telephone Town Hall Meeting for constituents of the 11th Congressional District of Virginia on Tuesday, December 16, beginning at 8 p.m. Residents of Virginia's 11th Congressional District are invited to participate. Read more. share: f t As the 113th Congress draws to a close, Congressman Gerry Connolly will hold his 22nd Telephone Town Hall Meeting for constituents of the 11th Congressional District of Virginia on Tuesday, December 16, beginning at 8 p.m. Residents of Virginia’s 11th Congressional District are invited to participate.Thousands of residents of Fairfax County, Prince William County and Fairfax City will automatically receive calls inviting them to stay on the line as the one-hour meeting is about to begin. Those wanting to participate and guarantee that they are called on Tuesday evening may sign up on Congressman Connolly’s website at http://connolly.house.gov/telephone-town-hall/ before 2 pm on Monday.As in his past telephone town halls, Connolly will open the session with a short report on the recent actions in Congress, his legislative activities in the House, and other matters affecting Northern Virginia and the nation. The remainder of the hour-long session is dedicated to Connolly responding to questions asked by 11th CD residents on the call. Connolly’s 21 previous tele-town hall meetings have been very popular with constituents, who note that they don’t have to drive to the event, they can participate from the comfort of their homes, and they can bow out quietly when they are ready to leave the discussion. Generally, telephone town halls draw a much higher rate of participation than the turnout at physical town halls and other constituent meetings.Many participants are able to ask questions directly to Congressman Connolly. At the end of the hour-long meeting, those who were unable to ask a question and every other participant on the call …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://wittman.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=558	Wittman to Again Chair Readiness Subcommittee in 114th Congress	2014-12-11	2014	2014-12	Republican	House	VA	Robert Wittman	W000804	wittman.house.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C. Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-1) released the following statement today after House Armed Services Committee Chairman-elect Mac Thornberry (TX-13) renamed him Chairman of the Subcommittee on Readiness for the upcoming 114th Congress: It has been an honor serving as Chairman of the Readiness Subcommittee during the 113th Congress, and I look forward to building on our previous and ongoing efforts in the 114th. I am truly humbled that Chairman-elect Thornberry has selected me to continue in this exciting role that brings with it tremendous responsibilities. The challenges facing our military's readiness continue to grow under sequestration, just as threats multiply around the world, and I remain committed to restoring that readiness and making our services' capabilities whole. The men and women of our armed forces are the best in the world. I am eager to work with Chairman-elect Thornberry and my colleagues on the House Armed Services Committee to ensure that our servicemen and women have the full support of their government behind them as they selflessly serve. Congressman Rob Wittman represents the First District of Virginia. He serves on the House Natural Resources Committee and the House Armed Services Committee where he is the Chairman of the Readiness Subcommittee. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://wittman.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=559	Wittman: Return to Regular Order	2014-12-11	2014	2014-12	Republican	House	VA	Robert Wittman	W000804	wittman.house.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C. Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-1) released the following statement today after opposing the Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations Act of 2015: In August I demanded that Congress remain in Washington until its work was done. Unfortunately, Congress still adjourned, and we now find ourselves at a familiar juncture: passing a bill to fund the government at the eleventh hour. While I am pleased that the critical functions of government are not shutting down, and that programs serving our military and veterans are still being properly resourced, I am frustrated at the process by which we have reached this point. I opposed this bill tonight because Congress has had months to properly fund our government with better legislation that doesn't include so many provisions that are disagreeable to folks on both sides of the aisle, such as the section that would add to the gross imbalance in government by allowing more outside money to flow into politics. We should be fixing campaign finance laws, not making things worse. I also believe that this bill did not go far enough to reign in the President's unilateral action on immigration. As the 114th Congress takes office in January, I am adamant that Congress return to regular order in which we pass timely budget resolutions and consistent appropriations bills. The uncertainty caused by Washington's political games has a significant impact on our small businesses and communities and also threatens the readiness of our military. I am hopeful that the new year will find Congress and the White House prepared to pursue long-term, responsible solutions that can end the uncertainty in Washington and help to strengthen and preserve this great nation. Congressman Rob Wittman represents the First District of Virginia. He serves on the House Natural Resources Committee and the House Armed Services Committee where he is the Chairman of the Readiness Subcommittee. # # #	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/authorization-for-use-of-military-force-against-isil-including-kaine-provisions-clears-foreign-relations-committee_	Authorization For Use Of Military Force Against ISIL Including Kaine Provisions Clears Foreign Relations Committee	2014-12-11	2014	2014-12	Democrat	House	VA	Tim Kaine	K000384	www.kaine.senate.gov	legacy	Authorization For Use Of Military Force Against ISIL Including Kaine Provisions Clears Foreign Relations Committee Thursday, December 11, 2014 WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, an Authorization for Use of Military Force (AUMF) against ISIL, including key limitations on ground troops and duration advocated by U.S. Senator Tim Kaine, cleared the Senate Foreign Relations Committee by a vote of 10-8 – a significant development following Kaine’s five-month long push for a meaningful, transparent debate and vote to properly authorize U.S. military action against ISIL. The approved authorization language can now advance to consideration by the full Senate where Kaine will continue to press for a debate and vote before adjourning for the year. “This is so necessary that we’re doing this today,” Kaine said during the committee meeting. “I speak for myself and I certainly speak for Virginians. We’re so connected to the military in my state. It’s necessary for us to do our job after more than four months of basically a unilateral war.” “We need to do this to do our duty constitutionally and we need to do it to support our troops,” Kaine continued. “We send them [U.S. troops] a message if we stand up and say this mission is worth it, but if we don’t stand up and say this mission is in the national interest, we send them a message too. And I think the message they get by Congressional inaction on this is a powerful one - and a debilitating one. We need to stand against ISIL as a committee and as a Senate.” In closing, Kaine noted that while he will continue to do everything he can to see this authorization debated and voted on by the full Senate before adjourning, “even if we can just do it as a committee and start that process, I think that process is salutatory in the message it sends to our troops.” The authorization reported by the committee today supports the mission laid out by President Obama with key provisions Kaine has advocated, including the following: 1) A strict limitation on…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/warner-kaine-announce-20-million-in-federal-funding-for-wallops-flight-facility	Warner, Kaine Announce $20 Million In Federal Funding For Wallops Flight Facility	2014-12-11	2014	2014-12	Democrat	House	VA	Tim Kaine	K000384	www.kaine.senate.gov	legacy	Warner, Kaine Announce $20 Million In Federal Funding For Wallops Flight Facility Includes significant additional funding for repairs to flight facility Thursday, December 11, 2014 WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Mark Warner and Tim Kaine announced that the compromise spending legislation for fiscal year 2015 scheduled to be considered by both the House and Senate this week includes $20 million in funding for Wallops Flight Facility on Virginia’s Eastern Shore, a result of their efforts to secure additional funding to support repairs following a launch failure on October 28 that caused significant damage to the Mid-Atlantic Regional Spaceport’s launch pad. “We are proud of our work with partners in the House and across the aisle to secure $20 million in federal funding that will help Wallops Island rebound from the launch failure this fall,” the Senators said. “The Wallops Flight Facility is a key asset to Virginia that will continue to play a major role in the future of NASA and space exploration. We especially want to thank Maryland Sen. Barbara Mikulski, the Appropriations chair, who has been a key supporter and advocate of NASA and the Wallops facility.” Warner and Kaine will release a detailed list of Virginia priorities in the compromise spending bill following final passage, which is expected by the end of the week. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/warner-kaine-hail-wins-for-virginia-in-defense-bill	Warner, Kaine Hail Wins For Virginia In Defense Bill	2014-12-11	2014	2014-12	Democrat	House	VA	Tim Kaine	K000384	www.kaine.senate.gov	legacy	Warner, Kaine Hail Wins For Virginia In Defense Bill Thursday, December 11, 2014 WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Mark Warner and Tim Kaine announced that the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) of 2015 has cleared a key Senate hurdle and will now advance to a vote on final passage. The bipartisan legislation, which is expected to pass and be signed into law by the President soon, is substantially based on the two bills passed last spring by the Senate and House Armed Services Committees, respectively. “This legislation demonstrates that despite often strong policy disagreements on both sides of the aisle, Congress can work together when our national security interests are at stake,” said Warner. “The compromise maintains our national security priorities while also strengthening Virginia’s historic commitments to our military men and women and their families.” “I’m proud that Congress has come together to strongly support programs and provisions that are critical to our defense communities,” said Kaine, a member of the Armed Services Committee who advocated on behalf of Virginia in the Senate version of the bill. “From giving our troops a pay raise, to maintaining our 11 aircraft carrier fleet and improving the credentialing process to ease servicemembers’ transition into the civilian workforce, the positive impacts of this bipartisan legislation will be felt across the Commonwealth.” The following list highlights many of the provisions included in the defense bill that impact Virginia: Refueling and Overhaul of the USS George Washington (CVN 73): Provides the legislative authorities and program language to support the $848 million added by the appropriations bill to keep the refueling and complex overhaul of CVN 73 on track and preserve the Navy’s 11 operational aircraft carrier fleet. Supports Shipbuilding Priorities: Authorizes funding for three Littoral Combat Ships, two Virginia Class submarines, the Ford Class aircraft carrier program, and allows two…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/warner-kaine-statement-on-reporting-of-elizabeth-dillon-nomination-out-of-judiciary-committee	Warner, Kaine Statement On Reporting Of Elizabeth Dillon Nomination Out Of Judiciary Committee	2014-12-11	2014	2014-12	Democrat	House	VA	Tim Kaine	K000384	www.kaine.senate.gov	legacy	Warner, Kaine Statement On Reporting Of Elizabeth Dillon Nomination Out Of Judiciary Committee Thursday, December 11, 2014 WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Mark Warner and Tim Kaine released the following joint statement after the Senate Judiciary Committee reported the nomination of Elizabeth Dillon to serve as a judge on the United States District Court for the Western District of Virginia: “With the Judiciary Committee reporting Elizabeth Dillon to the full body today, the Senate now has the opportunity to provide Virginia with another well-qualified judge. Ms. Dillon has spent her entire career practicing before Virginia’s state and federal courts in both public service and private practice. Throughout this career, she has exhibited the qualities we look for in good judges— exemplary character, dedication to public service, and strong command of the law. We are confident that all of these qualities will serve her well on the bench. “Ms. Dillon’s confirmation will be especially noteworthy since she will be the first woman to serve on the Western District bench. We look forward to her confirmation.” ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.kaine.senate.gov/tim-in-the-news/sen-tim-kaines-war-powers-push-wins-foreign-relations-committee-nod	Sen. Tim Kaine's war powers push wins Foreign Relations Committee nod	2014-12-11	2014	2014-12	Democrat	House	VA	Tim Kaine	K000384	www.kaine.senate.gov	legacy	Sen. Tim Kaine's war powers push wins Foreign Relations Committee nod By: Dave Ress Thursday, December 11, 2014 The Senate Foreign Relations Committee sent a strong message about the Constitution and the fight against the Islamic State Thursday, joining Sen. Tim Kaine's five-month-long campaign to seek congressional authorization for putting troops in harm's way. The committee voted 10-8 to authorize the use of military force against the Islamic State forces that have seized large portions of Iraq and Syria, terrorizing opponents and killing those who don't share their religious beliefs. "I just feel it is immoral to put our people's lives at risk – there've already been three deaths, two Marines and an Air Force captain – it's wrong to put them at risk if we're not going to say yes, this is a mission we believe we need to do," Kaine said after the committee vote. Kaine has argued for months that the Constitution is clear that Congress must approve military action against the Islamic State, which is also known as ISIS or ISIL. But from his first days in the Senate, he has argued that laws governing presidential war powers need to be tighter and clearer. "I speak for myself and I certainly speak for Virginians," Kaine told his fellow committee members during Thursday's debate. "It's necessary for us to do our job after more than four months of basically a unilateral war." Voting for the authorization tells American troops the nation is with them – and it tells Islamic State the same thing, Kaine said. Kaine believes the committee's vote last year to authorize the use of force in Syria, even though the full Senate never took up the measure, led Syria to agree to surrender its chemical weapons. The committee's Islamic State aut…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.kaine.senate.gov/tim-in-the-news/senate-committee-approves-military-action-against-islamic-state	Senate committee approves military action against Islamic State	2014-12-11	2014	2014-12	Democrat	House	VA	Tim Kaine	K000384	www.kaine.senate.gov	legacy	Senate committee approves military action against Islamic State By: Karen DeYoung Thursday, December 11, 2014 The Senate Foreign Relations Committee voted Thursday to authorize U.S. military action against the Islamic State “and associated forces” for three years, while prohibiting the introduction of ground combat troops. The 10-to-8 vote was along party lines, with Republicans on the committee voting against the measure, mostly because they believed it limited the president’s actions too much and at least one, Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.), because it did not limit them enough. The authorization for the use of military force (AUMF) is unlikely to make it to the Senate floor before the current Congress adjourns. But the debate surrounding it provided a preview of where parties are likely to stand when the Senate reconvenes under Republican leadership next month. Committee Chairman Sen. Robert Menendez (D-N.J.), the principal sponsor, said that rather than tying the hands of the president in using force, “we create checks and balances on the commander in chief as is envisioned by the founders.” Others had proposed limiting the authorization to one year. In testimony Tuesday, Secretary of State John F. Kerry asked the committee not to prohibit the use of ground forces, saying President Obama had already said it was not his intention to deploy them as part of the air campaign against the Islamic State that began last summer. “The president has been crystal clear that his policy is that U.S. military forces will not be deployed to conduct ground combat operations against ISIL,” Kerry said. “It doesn’t mean that we should preemptively bind the hands of the commander in chief or our commanders in the field in responding to scenarios and …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.kaine.senate.gov/tim-in-the-news/senate-committee-vote-on-war-powers-marks-a-victory-for-kaine	Senate committee vote on war powers marks a victory for Kaine	2014-12-11	2014	2014-12	Democrat	House	VA	Tim Kaine	K000384	www.kaine.senate.gov	legacy	Senate committee vote on war powers marks a victory for Kaine By: Markus Schmidt Thursday, December 11, 2014 The authorization by a Senate panel Thursday for use of military force against the Islamic State marks a victory for Sen. Timothy M. Kaine, D-Va., who has pushed for a vote on war powers since President Barack Obama launched airstrikes against the militant group in August. “It’s necessary for us to do our jobs after four-plus months of basically unilateral war,” Kaine told the members of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations before the vote. There are “differences of opinions certainly between the executive and us, some within this body, that many of us passionately believe there is no legal basis for the military action that is currently underway that’s led to loss of U.S. lives, that’s led to $1 billion in expenditure and 1,100 airstrikes, and now nearly 3,000 advisers on the ground or on their way to be on the ground in Iraq,” Kaine said. The resolution, which cleared the committee by a 10-8 vote along party lines after a vivid discussion on war powers, includes key limitations on ground troops and duration advocated by Kaine in his own measure that he introduced in September. “This discussion was a very civil and educational one (and ) the action of the committee was important because it basically becomes the template for the authorization that I now feel confident will happen,” Kaine said in an interview later Thursday. “In some ways, it’s the first real step, but there are many more steps.” But Kaine said chances are rather slim for the approved legislation to go to the Senate floor for a vote by the full body before adjournment, which could come next week or earlier. “We may be here for a few more days, so I…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=024d3fa3-271a-45ac-9575-c2c6867c32f3	Warner, Kaine Hail Wins for Virginia in Defense Bill	2014-12-11	2014	2014-12	Democrat	House	VA	Mark Warner	W000805	www.warner.senate.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Mark Warner and Tim Kaine announced that the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) of 2015 has cleared a key Senate hurdle and will now advance to a vote on final passage. The bipartisan legislation, which is expected to pass and be signed into law by the President soon, is substantially based on the two bills passed last spring by the Senate and House Armed Services Committees, respectively. “This legislation demonstrates that despite often strong policy disagreements on both sides of the aisle, Congress can work together when our national security interests are at stake,” said Warner. “The compromise maintains our national security priorities while also strengthening Virginia’s historic commitments to our military men and women and their families.” “I’m proud that Congress has come together to strongly support programs and provisions that are critical to our defense communities,” said Kaine, a member of the Armed Services Committee who advocated on behalf of Virginia in the Senate version of the bill. “From giving our troops a pay raise, to maintaining our 11 aircraft carrier fleet and improving the credentialing process to ease servicemembers’ transition into the civilian workforce, the positive impacts of this bipartisan legislation will be felt across the Commonwealth.” The following list highlights many of the provisions included in the defense bill that impact Virginia: Refueling and Overhaul of the USS George Washington (CVN 73): Provides the legislative authorities and program language to support the $848 million added by the appropriations bill to keep the refueling and complex overhaul of CVN 73 on track and preserve the Navy’s 11 operational aircraft carrier fleet. Supports Shipbuilding Priorities: Authorizes funding for three Littoral Combat Ships, two Virginia Class submarines, the Ford Class aircraft carrier program, and allows two cruisers to enter modernization next year. This follows the landmark contract signed by the Navy this year for 10 new…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=ab38fa29-bc23-4516-ba15-b127d28bffcb	Sens. Warner, King Usher Regulatory Relief for Community Banks, Credit Unions Through Senate	2014-12-11	2014	2014-12	Democrat	House	VA	Mark Warner	W000805	www.warner.senate.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the United States Senate unanimously passed two provisions authored by U.S. Senators Mark Warner (D-VA) and Angus King (I-ME) to help relieve America’s small financial institutions, like community banks and credits unions, of regulatory burdens so that they are better able to serve their communities. “Community banks and credit unions are the backbone of the U.S. economy. According to the FDIC, small banks hold 14% of the nation’s banking assets and make nearly half of all of the smaller loans to farms and small businesses. That is why I am so pleased to get final passage on our proposals to reduce regulatory burdens on smaller institutions and create parity for certain accounts between community banks and credit unions. This allows community-based financial institutions to do what they do best: support our local economies,” said Senator Warner. “Small banks and credit unions are often the financial cornerstones of communities across the country, providing the very credit that helps drive our economy each and every day,” Senator King said. “But while these smaller institutions played no part in causing the financial crisis in 2008, they have often been forced to shoulder the burden of too many poorly-tailored regulations intended to prevent the next one. These provisions will lift some of those onerous requirements and provide parity for accounts between community banks and credit unions, all of which will help smaller lending institutions better serve the communities that rely upon them.” The two provisions, authored by Senators Warner and King, had also been introduced as part of the RELIEVE Act earlier this year. A description of each is below: The community bank relief bill allows small bank holding companies with under $1 billion in assets to be regulated under the Small Bank Holding Company Statement (SBHCS), which allows simplified reporting requirements and less stringent capital standards that reflect the traditional banking services that these smaller banks provide. Th…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=b4ee353d-487d-4b08-b268-6750b0810b39	Warner, Kaine Statement on Reporting of Elizabeth Dillon Nomination Out of Judiciary Committee	2014-12-11	2014	2014-12	Democrat	House	VA	Mark Warner	W000805	www.warner.senate.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Mark Warner and Tim Kaine released the following joint statement after the Senate Judiciary Committee reported the nomination of Elizabeth Dillon to serve as a judge on the United States District Court for the Western District of Virginia: “With the Judiciary Committee reporting Elizabeth Dillon to the full body today, the Senate now has the opportunity to provide Virginia with another well-qualified judge. Ms. Dillon has spent her entire career practicing before Virginia’s state and federal courts in both public service and private practice. Throughout this career, she has exhibited the qualities we look for in good judges— exemplary character, dedication to public service, and strong command of the law. We are confident that all of these qualities will serve her well on the bench. “Ms. Dillon’s confirmation will be especially noteworthy since she will be the first woman to serve on the Western District bench. We look forward to her confirmation.”	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=c3dcf189-45a8-4da3-9268-31fb95357e77	Warner, Kaine Announce $20 Million in Federal Funding for Wallops Flight Facility	2014-12-11	2014	2014-12	Democrat	House	VA	Mark Warner	W000805	www.warner.senate.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Mark Warner and Tim Kaine announced that the compromise spending legislation for fiscal year 2015 scheduled to be considered by both the House and Senate this week includes $20 million in funding for Wallops Flight Facility on Virginia’s Eastern Shore, a result of their efforts to secure additional funding to support repairs following a launch failure on October 28 that caused significant damage to the Mid-Atlantic Regional Spaceport’s launch pad. “We are proud of our work with partners in the House and across the aisle to secure $20 million in federal funding that will help Wallops Island rebound from the launch failure this fall,” the Senators said. “The Wallops Flight Facility is a key asset to Virginia that will continue to play a major role in the future of NASA and space exploration. We especially want to thank Maryland Sen. Barbara Mikulski, the Appropriations chair, who has been a key supporter and advocate of NASA and the Wallops facility.” Warner and Kaine will release a detailed list of Virginia priorities in the compromise spending bill following final passage, which is expected by the end of the week.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://wittman.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=557	Wittman, Warner Chesapeake Bay Legislation Passes House, Cleared for President's Signature	2014-12-10	2014	2014-12	Republican	House	VA	Robert Wittman	W000804	wittman.house.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C. The U.S. House of Representatives today passed the Chesapeake Bay Accountability and Recovery Act of 2014, sponsored by Representative Rob Wittman (R-VA-01) and Senator Mark R. Warner (D-VA), by a vote of 416-0. The legislation will increase coordination and transparency within Chesapeake Bay restoration efforts, in addition to reducing duplication of federal and state efforts. The bill passed the U.S. Senate on December 2, 2014, and is now cleared for the President's signature. The Chesapeake Bay Accountability and Recovery Act of 2014 requires the development of a cross-cut budget to detail the activities of all federal agencies that are involved in Chesapeake Bay restoration efforts. Additionally, the legislation would create a Chesapeake Bay Program Independent Evaluator to review and report to Congress on restoration activates in the watershed. The Chesapeake Bay partnership includes 10 federal agencies, six states and the District of Columbia, over one thousand localities and multiple non-governmental organizations. To date, the complexity of the participants has resulted in a muddled effort. The Chesapeake Bay is one of our nation's prized historic resources, Rep. Wittman said. While many entities share a commitment to restoring the health of this economic driver for communities and industries across the Commonwealth, we must ensure that federal, state, and local efforts are not working at cross purposes, and that the restoration effort as a whole is coordinated and efficient. With today's action, we are one step closer to ensuring that the Chesapeake Bay remains the economic foundation of our region and a national treasure that will be enjoyed for generations to come. Rep. Wittman first introduced the Chesapeake Bay Accountability and Recovery Act in the House of Representatives in 2008. Versions of the bill have passed the House alone or as part of broader packages in each of the last three sessions of Congress. Sen. Warner first sponsored the bill in 2011. Restoring the Chesapeake …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-applauds-175-million-grant-to-expand-pre-k-programs-in-virginia	Kaine Applauds $17.5 Million Grant To Expand Pre-K Programs In Virginia	2014-12-10	2014	2014-12	Democrat	House	VA	Tim Kaine	K000384	www.kaine.senate.gov	legacy	Kaine Applauds $17.5 Million Grant To Expand Pre-K Programs In Virginia Wednesday, December 10, 2014 WASHINGTON, D.C.— U.S. Senator Tim Kaine released the following statement applauding today’s announcement by the U.S. Department of Education that Virginia will receive a $17,500,000 Preschool Development Grant to provide high-quality preschool programs for children from low and moderate income families through the Virginia Preschool Initiative, which Kaine helped expand as Governor. Kaine wrote to the Department of Education in October urging the department to award the grant to Virginia. "The critical funds awarded by the U.S. Department of Education will help children in high-need communities throughout the Commonwealth get a head start on a lifetime of learning,” said Kaine. “Investing in early childhood education helps close the achievement gap between children of all backgrounds. That’s why as Governor I worked with members of both parties to improve the quality of Pre-K programs and increase enrollment by 40 percent. Virginia’s early childhood education programs are a model for the nation and I am a proud supporter of their expansion.” It is estimated that through the grant, Virginia will increase the number of children served in state-funded preschool programs by 17 percent. The U.S. Departments of Education and Health and Human Services require that grant recipients promote federal priorities such as engaging families as partners, serving children at or below 200% of poverty in high-need communities and ensuring there are highly qualified teachers in preschool classrooms. Kaine has long championed early childhood education, having worked with legislators, educators and business leaders as Governor to expand the Virginia Preschool Initiative. As Senator, Kaine introduced the Strong Start for America’s Children Act, legislation to expand access to high-quality early learning programs for children from birth to age five. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.kaine.senate.gov/tim-in-the-news/rules-of-engagement-still-missing	Rules of Engagement, Still Missing	2014-12-10	2014	2014-12	Democrat	House	VA	Tim Kaine	K000384	www.kaine.senate.gov	legacy	Rules of Engagement, Still Missing By: Editorial Board Wednesday, December 10, 2014 Nearly five months and 1,100 airstrikes into the American-led war against the Islamic State, Congress has barely begun to fulfill its constitutional war-making responsibilities. The Senate Foreign Relations Committee on Tuesday belatedly opened debate on legislation that would authorize the use of force, but there’s no expectation that the work can be finished before the session ends on Thursday. That means it will be put off at least until January, when the new Congress convenes. The delay also means that President Obama will continue to conduct the war in Iraq and Syria under an outdated 2001 authorization, without explicit approval by Congress and without the necessary limitations that the committee chairman, Robert Menendez, Democrat of New Jersey, and two other members, Tim Kaine, Democrat of Virginia, and Rand Paul, Republican of Kentucky, have urged. Presidents often resist attempts by Congress to limit their powers. But after 13 years of war in Afghanistan and Iraq that first targeted Al Qaeda and then evolved into conflicts in other states (like Yemen) against “associated” extremists, the United States cannot afford to get caught up in another endless, all-consuming conflict. The Menendez bill tries to address such concerns in part by prohibiting the deployment of American ground troops in the fight against the Islamic State, also called ISIS or ISIL, except in specific circumstances, including collecting intelligence; enabling airstrikes; and carrying out operational planning or “other forms of advice and assistance to forces fighting ISIL in Iraq or Syria.” The reference to “other forms” refers in part to rescue operations in support of …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=8015034d-15b1-4a96-8e02-9e4f4af00683	Wittman, Warner Chesapeake Bay Legislation Passes House, Cleared for President's Signature	2014-12-10	2014	2014-12	Democrat	House	VA	Mark Warner	W000805	www.warner.senate.gov	legacy	The U.S. House of Representatives today passed the Chesapeake Bay Accountability and Recovery Act of 2014, sponsored by Representative Rob Wittman (R-VA-01) and Senator Mark R. Warner (D-VA), by a vote of 416-0. The legislation will increase coordination and transparency within Chesapeake Bay restoration efforts, in addition to reducing duplication of federal and state efforts. The bill passed the U.S. Senate on December 2, 2014, and is now cleared for the President’s signature. The Chesapeake Bay Accountability and Recovery Act of 2014 requires the development of a cross-cut budget to detail the activities of all federal agencies that are involved in Chesapeake Bay restoration efforts. Additionally, the legislation would create a Chesapeake Bay Program Independent Evaluator to review and report to Congress on restoration activates in the watershed. The Chesapeake Bay partnership includes 10 federal agencies, six states and the District of Columbia, over one thousand localities and multiple non-governmental organizations. To date, the complexity of the participants has resulted in a muddled effort. “The Chesapeake Bay is one of our nation’s prized historic resources,” Rep. Wittman said. “While many entities share a commitment to restoring the health of this economic driver for communities and industries across the Commonwealth, we must ensure that federal, state, and local efforts are not working at cross purposes, and that the restoration effort as a whole is coordinated and efficient. With today’s action, we are one step closer to ensuring that the Chesapeake Bay remains the economic foundation of our region and a national treasure that will be enjoyed for generations to come.” Rep. Wittman first introduced the Chesapeake Bay Accountability and Recovery Act in the House of Representatives in 2008. Versions of the bill have passed the House alone or as part of broader packages in each of the last three sessions of Congress. Sen. Warner first sponsored the bill in 2011. “Restoring the Chesapeake Bay …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=99bb538c-aafc-473d-bdcf-aa501e1ea598	Statement of Sen. Warner on Award of $17.5 million Federal Preschool Expansion Grant to Virginia	2014-12-10	2014	2014-12	Democrat	House	VA	Mark Warner	W000805	www.warner.senate.gov	legacy	U.S. Sen. Mark Warner released this statement today following a U.S. Department of Education announcement that Virginia will receive a $17.5 million Preschool Development Expansion Grant to serve children in 11 Virginia school divisions. Sen. Warner, who championed early childhood programs and doubled the number of children enrolled in the Virginia Preschool Initiative during his 2002-6 term as Governor, had urged federal approval of Virginia’s request for funding in an Oct. 16, 2014 letter to U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan. “This federal support allows the Commonwealth to expand and improve the Virginia Preschool Initiative, which helps equip at-risk four-year-old children not served by Head Start with the critical skills they need for lifelong learning,” Sen. Warner said. “I am especially pleased that Virginia’s initiative includes community partnerships to improve early childhood readiness as well as professional development for educators.” According to the Governor’s Office, the grant from the U.S. Department of Education will support expansion and improvement of the Virginia Preschool Initiative (VPI) in 11 high-needs school divisions beginning in the 2015-2016 school year. VPI is a state-funded program that currently supports quality preschool programs for approximately 18,000 at-risk four-year-olds. In addition to providing high-quality preschool experiences and activities, the selected divisions will offer focused outreach to families and communities, as well as individualized support for children with unique learning needs, including students with disabilities, English-language learners and children from military families. This combination of instruction, outreach and support will be known as VPI Plus, and participating localities include Brunswick County, Chesterfield County, Fairfax County, Giles County, Henrico County, Norfolk, Petersburg, Prince William County, Richmond, Sussex County and Winchester. The divisions were selected based on the following indicators of need: poverty, number o…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/in-hearing-with-secretary-kerry-kaine-presses-case-for-congress-to-act-on-authorization-for-use-of-military-force-against-isil-before-adjourning	In Hearing With Secretary Kerry, Kaine Presses Case For Congress To Act On Authorization For Use Of Military Force Against ISIL Before Adjourning	2014-12-09	2014	2014-12	Democrat	House	VA	Tim Kaine	K000384	www.kaine.senate.gov	legacy	In Hearing With Secretary Kerry, Kaine Presses Case For Congress To Act On Authorization For Use Of Military Force Against ISIL Before Adjourning Tuesday, December 9, 2014 WASHINGTON, D.C. – Following U.S. Senator Tim Kaine’s months-long push for a meaningful, transparent debate and vote on an authorization for U.S. military action against ISIL, the Senate Foreign Relations Committee held a hearing today on the mission against ISIL with Secretary of State John Kerry – a move Kaine believes is a critical, yet overdue, first step in properly authorizing this mission. Responding to criticism about the unorthodox process that led to today's hearing, Kaine said: “Congress has been silent about this. I don’t think we weaken our nation so much with an unwieldy process as we weaken our nation when we don’t take seriously the most solemn responsibility Congress has, which is to engage around the authorization at the beginning – not five months in – about whether we should initiate war.” “Constitutionally it’s required,” he said. “But I’m driven by a more important value – I don’t think it’s fair to ask people … to risk their lives - to give their lives - in a mission if Congress hasn’t had a debate and put their thumbprint on it and said this is in the national interest. If we ‘re not willing to do that, how can we ask people to risk their lives?” “I think it would be foolish to leave here this week or next, to adjourn,” Kaine continued. “For those of us who do not believe that the ‘01 or ‘02 authorizations give this a legal authority, every day we have been on offense without Congress we believe is an unauthorized war. We believe it’s a Congressional abdication of our oath of office and of our fundamental constitutional responsibilities.” Since June 2014, Kaine has been urging the administration to seek a specific authorization for military action against ISIL while pressing his Congressional colleagues to debate and vote on the mission. In September, Kaine introduced a draft aut…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=9f7be0f8-5c16-444e-8730-422a3f6c0415	Statement of Sen. Warner on Release of CIA Interrogation Study	2014-12-09	2014	2014-12	Democrat	House	VA	Mark Warner	W000805	www.warner.senate.gov	legacy	“Like the President and the Director of National Intelligence, I know there is never a perfect time to release this report, and believe we should do so now to get this matter behind us. I was not a member of the Committee when the study was launched, and with hindsight, I wish it could have been a more collaborative process that included personal interviews with those involved. As a Senator who represents thousands of patriotic Americans who work in the intelligence community, it is important to emphasize that this report found that, more than a decade ago, a small number of CIA officials made misrepresentations about the effectiveness of the program, that ultimately were conveyed to CIA leadership and then passed along to the President. We must demonstrate to the world that, as Americans, we are willing to look squarely at our actions, and always look for ways to do better.” For more resources on the Senate Intelligence Committee study click here.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://morgangriffith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398373	Congressman Griffith's Weekly E-Newsletter 12.8.14	2014-12-08	2014	2014-12	Republican	House	VA	Morgan Griffith	G000568	morgangriffith.house.gov	legacy	The ABLE Act Much talk about Congress focuses on partisan conflict. But it is important to keep in mind that, though discord gets more attention, Democrats and Republicans can and do work together to get things done. Among my efforts are the bipartisan Drug Quality and Security Act (H.R. 3089) to clarify oversight of the compounding drug manufacturing system (which was signed into law) and the Patient Choice Act (H.R. 2090), bipartisan legislation to speed up Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval of drugs and give certain patients the option to buy new, innovative, experimental drugs and therapies at their own expense. More recently, I was proud to cosponsor and vote in favor of the Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Act (H.R. 647), which passed the House of Representatives on December 3 with very strong bipartisan support. The ABLE Act enables those with disabilities to set up tax-free savings accounts, and will allow those on Medicaid and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) to work, earn money, and save while continuing to receive those benefits. Much like 529 college savings accounts, these 529A (or ABLE) accounts would be administered by the States on a voluntary basis. The range of investment options would be determined by the States. In voicing their support for the ABLE Act, Americans for Tax Reform said on December 2, “Put simply, an ABLE account is to a child with a disability what a 529 plan is to a child who has college in his future. Not only is an ABLE account a good way to increase tax-free savings for families (always a good thing), it's a compassionate way for families with special needs children to save for the needs of the most vulnerable.” The ABLE accounts will assist those with disabilities and their caretakers with managing expenses, helping to provide stability, security, and the knowledge they can save and cover the costs of medical care, housing, transportation, education, etc. into the future. “This is why we’re here: to advance solutions that make people’s lives bette…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.kaine.senate.gov/commonwealth-connection/tribes-deserve-recognition	Tribes Deserve Recognition	2014-12-07	2014	2014-12	Democrat	House	VA	Tim Kaine	K000384	www.kaine.senate.gov	legacy	Sunday, December 7, 2014 Tribes Deserve Recognition By Senator Tim Kaine This Op-Ed appeared in the Daily Press and the Lynchburg News & Advance Millions of children know the story of Pocahontas. They know that, thanks to the help of the Powhatan tribe, the first permanent English settlement in the Americas survived when others had failed. As Virginians, we know Indian tribes have played an integral role in the commonwealth and the country's history from the beginning. Yet even today, the federal government has yet to recognize any of Virginia's historic tribes. Many Virginia Indian tribes were situated here in 1607, when Jamestown was founded, or earlier and have maintained their identities for thousands of years. Today, the majority of Virginians, all eight living Virginia governors and the entire bipartisan congressional delegation support federal recognition. despite this, the tribes still haven't received the same recognition the federal government has granted to more than 500 similar tribes in America. Federal recognition would acknowledge and protect the identities of the tribes. It would also guarantee their people access to much-needed healthcare and emergency assistance, and allow their children to attend federal Indian schools. Many tribes have vigorously pursued paths to recognition through the administrative process but have found it to be inefficient, expensive and confusing. The federal process run by the Bureau of Indian Affairs uses a one-size-fits-all system that fails to account for extraordinary circumstances like the barriers Virginia tribes have encountered. Tribes are required to provide the federal government with birth and death records dating back more than 100 years. This is greatly complicated by the fact that courthouses that held the vast majority of the Virginia tribes' records were burned during the Civil War. Many of the records that survived the Civil War were later systematically altered as part of …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://wittman.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=554	Wittman Statement on NDAA Provisions Adjusting Military Compensation and Allowances	2014-12-05	2014	2014-12	Republican	House	VA	Robert Wittman	W000804	wittman.house.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C. Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-1), Chairman of the House Armed Services Readiness Subcommittee, released the following statement today concerning provisions in the House-passed National Defense Authorization Act for 2014 (H.R. 3979) which adjusted military compensation and allowances: The passage of today's bill was absolutely necessary for protecting our national security and ensuring our military is resourced to accomplish its missions. However, I am adamantly opposed to provisions which increase pharmacy copays and reduce the basic housing allowance. While the provisions were a better option than what was requested by the Senate and DoD, both of which supported a higher increase in copays and a more significant reduction in the basic housing allowance, I believe it is premature to adjust the benefits of service members or their families without comprehensive review and recommendations from the ongoing Military Compensation and Retirement Modernization Commission. I will continue to fight to ensure this nation honors its promise to our service members, veterans and military families. Wittman Statement in Congressional Record Congressman Rob Wittman represents the First District of Virginia. He serves on the House Natural Resources Committee and the House Armed Services Committee where he is the Chairman of the Readiness Subcommittee. ####	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://wittman.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=556	Wittman Statement on Ash Carter Nomination as Secretary of Defense	2014-12-05	2014	2014-12	Republican	House	VA	Robert Wittman	W000804	wittman.house.gov	legacy	Wittman Statement on Ash Carter Nomination as Secretary of Defense f t # e Washington, D.C., December 5, 2014 Washington, D.C. Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-1), Chairman of the House Armed Services Readiness Subcommittee, released the following statement today after President Barack Obama announced that he would nominate Ashton Carter to be the next Secretary of Defense: Ash Carter is a dedicated public servant who possesses a thorough understanding of the budget crisis the Department of Defense is experiencing. I look forward to working with him if he is confirmed by the Senate." The challenges facing the Department of Defense are far-reaching, and I am committed to working with the Pentagon to ensure our men and women in uniform are fully trained, equipped, and resourced to accomplish their missions successfully and return home safely. Congressman Rob Wittman represents the First District of Virginia. He serves on the House Natural Resources Committee and the House Armed Services Committee where he is the Chairman of the Readiness Subcommittee. # # # f t # e	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-statement-on-ashton-carter-nomination-to-be-secretary-of-defense	Kaine Statement On Ashton Carter Nomination To Be Secretary Of Defense	2014-12-05	2014	2014-12	Democrat	House	VA	Tim Kaine	K000384	www.kaine.senate.gov	legacy	Kaine Statement On Ashton Carter Nomination To Be Secretary Of Defense Friday, December 5, 2014 WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tim Kaine, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement on President Obama’s nomination of former Deputy Secretary of Defense Ashton Carter to serve as the nation’s next Secretary of Defense. "Ash Carter is a dedicated public servant with a unique degree of Pentagon experience that spans three decades and includes time in the number two post under Secretaries Panetta and Hagel, and service as both Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics and Assistant Secretary of Defense for International Security Policy. In each of these roles, he has successfully navigated complex global contingencies while demonstrating a strong commitment to servicemembers and their families. With no shortage of challenges facing the Department of Defense and our Armed Forces – from responding to the ISIL threat and managing a changing security environment in Europe and the Pacific, to a severely constrained fiscal environment – I believe Ash Carter is the right person for the job and urge my Senate colleagues to swiftly confirm him to this critical post.” ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://morgangriffith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398372	Griffith Statement on the NDAA	2014-12-04	2014	2014-12	Republican	House	VA	Morgan Griffith	G000568	morgangriffith.house.gov	legacy	Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA) issued the following statement today following his vote against the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2015: “Though it does include some good provisions, I remain of the belief that the National Defense Authorization Act fails to adequately protect our civil liberties. Put simply, we cannot leave our liberty to inference. Among what makes America so great are our freedoms and liberties. Without language that clearly protects our freedom, if I am to err, I will err on the side of liberty. For that reason, as in past years, I could not vote for this bill.” ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://connolly.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=704	Fedscoop: IT Reform Comes Up For Vote as Part of Defense Bill	2014-12-04	2014	2014-12	Democrat	House	VA	Gerald Connolly	C001078	connolly.house.gov	legacy	After nearly two years and several iterations, the bill formerly known as the Federal Information Technology Acquisition and Reform Act is heading to the House floor as part of the 2015 Defense authorization bill.Read more. share: f t IT reform comes up for vote as part of Defense bill By Jake WilliamsAfter nearly two years and several iterations, the bill formerly known as the Federal Information Technology Acquisition and Reform Act is heading to the House floor as part of the 2015 Defense authorization bill.The bill, which could head to the House as early as Thursday, would add additional authorities for agency chief information officers, effectively codifying the position’s oversight responsibilities for IT management and governance.According to the text of the bill, every agency chief information officer, except for the Defense Department CIO, would have a significant role in “the decision processes for all annual and multi-year planning, programming, budgeting and executive decisions, related reporting requirements and reports related to information technology.”Those CIOs would also lead the formulation of their agency’s IT budget and would have the final say on any IT-related contracts, as well as any moving of funds from one IT-related program to another.Earlier drafts of FITARA included a provision that would limit an agency to one CIO position; however, the version included in the NDAA would allow the CIO of a larger agency to appoint CIOs for smaller agencies. The bill does assert that the duties of a CIO are not delegable, though. An agency CIO could only delegate approval of IT contracts or systems that are classified as nonmajor under the White HouseOffice of Management and Budget’s guidance.In the case of the Defense Department, the CIO would review and provide recommendations to the Defense secretary on the department’s IT budget request.Almost none of the CIO’s additional IT authorities will apply to any telecommunications or IT funded …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://connolly.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=706	Federal News Radio: IT Reform Bill Overcomes Toughest Hurdle on Path to Become Law	2014-12-04	2014	2014-12	Democrat	House	VA	Gerald Connolly	C001078	connolly.house.gov	legacy	The first major reform bill for federal information technology in more than a decade has made it through its toughest hurdle – the National Defense Authorization bill. Read more. share: f t IT reform bill overcomes toughest hurdle on path to become law Jason MillerThe first major reform bill for federal information technology in more than a decade has made it through its toughest hurdle — the National Defense Authorization bill.House and Senate Armed Services committee members agreed to keep a pared down version of the Federal IT Acquisition Reform Act in the final NDAA bill.While the full House and Senate chambers still need to approve it, and President Barack Obama needs to sign it, FITARA is closer than ever to becoming law."I think the core of the legislation and the reforms that we had in mind are absolutely the original language of the Issa-Connolly bill in this version of FITARA in the NDAA, and I'm very, very happy and gratified," said Rep. Gerry Connolly (D-Va.), in an interview with Federal News Radio Wednesday. "I really believe this reform legislation will make a difference and save taxpayers a lot of money."The provision in the NDAA applies only to civilian agencies and gives chief information officers specific and increased authorities and responsibilities over IT investments.FITARA calls for agency heads to ensure CIOs have a "significant role in the decision processes for all annual and multi-year planning, programming, budgeting and execution decisions … related to IT," and the "management, governance and oversight processes related to IT."Civilian agency CIOs also must approve the IT budget request from their agency before sending it to the Office of Management and Budget, approve any contract for technology products or services and sign-off on any request to reprogram funds for IT projects.CIOs also must "certify that IT investments are adequately implementing incremental development" as defined by OMB."I think the empowerment of CIOs…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://wittman.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=553	Wittman Applauds House Passage of National Defense Authorization Act of 2015	2014-12-04	2014	2014-12	Republican	House	VA	Robert Wittman	W000804	wittman.house.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C. Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-1), Chairman of the House Armed Services Readiness Subcommittee, applauded the House passage of H.R. 3979, the Carl Levin and Howard P. Buck McKeon National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for FY 2015, which follows original House passage in May. Passage of this bill highlights Congress' strong commitment to our military, Wittman said. The military's resources have been continually undermined by senseless, unbalanced budget cuts in recent years, and it is critical that we ensure our servicemen and women have the training and equipment to accomplish their missions and return home. The threats facing our nation grow every day, and our defense budget must be governed by strategy, not numbers. The NDAA authorizes $521.3 billion in base discretionary spending for national defense. The bill includes a number of initiatives championed by Wittman, including provisions to: Prohibit DOD from conducting another base realignment and closure round at a time when our national security strategy is in flux, our requirements uncertain, and the future unclear; Fund critical operation and maintenance activities, such as depot maintenance, ship and aircraft sustainment, and basic and advanced training for troops; Ensure a ready and robust Navy that is prepared to support global Combatant Commander requirements by including incremental funding for the construction of a 12th San Antonio class amphibious ship (LPD-28); Restore funding for the refueling and overhaul of USS George Washington (CVN-73). This bill strengthens many of our most critical defense programs, Wittman added. However, our work is not done, as there is a continued need to make our readiness whole. The overall strength and preparedness of our military continues to be threatened by the combination of unnecessary budget cuts and the impending sequester. We absolutely must restore readiness and maintain it going forward so that our nation's military remains the greatest the world has ever known. Finally, Wittman …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://wittman.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=555	Wittman Supports Legislation Rolling Back Immigration Executive Order	2014-12-04	2014	2014-12	Republican	House	VA	Robert Wittman	W000804	wittman.house.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C. Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-1) released the following statement after supporting H.R. 5759, the Preventing Executive Overreach on Immigration Act, which rolls back the President's recent executive order to change immigration policy: Before the President announced his executive action, I urged him to remember what he'd said in 2013, when he acknowledged that the path to get immigration reform done is through Congress. Despite the concerns of many Americans, the President still chose to circumvent the legislative process and the Constitution. Today's legislation reinforces the reality that the President simply cannot unilaterally make policy. Our founders established our system of government with a purpose, and the President must work with Congress. To fix our broken immigration system, we must first secure the border, enforce existing laws, and reform our visa program. I remain adamantly opposed to amnesty in any shape or form. Congressman Rob Wittman represents the First District of Virginia. He serves on the House Natural Resources Committee and the House Armed Services Committee where he is the Chairman of the Readiness Subcommittee. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-notes-progress-against-sexual-assault-within-the-military_more-work-to-be-done	Kaine Notes Progress Against Sexual Assault Within The Military – More Work To Be Done	2014-12-04	2014	2014-12	Democrat	House	VA	Tim Kaine	K000384	www.kaine.senate.gov	legacy	Kaine Notes Progress Against Sexual Assault Within The Military – More Work To Be Done Thursday, December 4, 2014 WASHINGTON, D.C. – In response to today’s comprehensive Department of Defense (DoD) Report to the President on Sexual Assault Prevention and Response, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and Subcommittee on Personnel, noted the important steps that have been taken towards eliminating sexual assault within the military, but stressed that lawmakers, military leaders and servicemembers must continue embracing reform to combat these crimes. “The efforts of the Department of Defense and Congress have resulted in a notable increase in reporting of sexual assaults and a decrease in the number of sexual assault cases, however our work isn’t done,” said Kaine. “We must ensure the culture within the military supports, protects and empowers survivors and that perpetrators of these heinous crimes are put behind bars.” DoD’s report indicates a 27% reduction in incidents of sexual assault from 26,000 in FY2012 to 19,000 in FY2014. In addition, the report shows a 50% increase in reporting of these crimes, from 1 in 10 in FY2012 to 1 in 4 in FY2014, which could reflect increasing confidence in the military justice system from sexual assault survivors. However, a majority of survivors indicated retaliation for reporting, showing the pressing need to do more to combat social and professional retaliation against sexual assault survivors. In 2013, Kaine and U.S. Senator Mark Warner took steps to begin to address this issue by introducing the Military Whistleblower Protection Act, provisions of which were included in the 2014 defense bill. Since taking office, Kaine has voted to take broad steps to protect and empower survivors of military sexual assault, increase reporting, and hold perpetrators accountable. As a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, Kaine strongly supported reforms included in the 2015 defense bill to improve polic…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-statement-on-decision-to-hold-senate-foreign-relations-committee-hearing-and-vote-next-week-on-authorization-for-use-of-military-force-against-isil-	Kaine Statement On Decision To Hold Senate Foreign Relations Committee Hearing And Vote Next Week On Authorization For Use Of Military Force Against ISIL	2014-12-04	2014	2014-12	Democrat	House	VA	Tim Kaine	K000384	www.kaine.senate.gov	legacy	Kaine Statement On Decision To Hold Senate Foreign Relations Committee Hearing And Vote Next Week On Authorization For Use Of Military Force Against ISIL Thursday, December 4, 2014 WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tim Kaine released the following statement on Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman Robert Menendez’s decision to hold a hearing on the U.S. mission against ISIL next Monday, December 8 and a markup and vote on an Authorization for Use of Military Force (AUMF) on Wednesday, December 10: “We will now have the opportunity to engage in a meaningful, transparent debate on the U.S. military mission against ISIL, as I’ve been calling for since military action began nearly four months ago. We owe it to our servicemembers and the American people to have this debate and take this vote before adjourning for the year, and I’m pleased we’re on track to do so in the right way, ”said Kaine, who delivered related remarks on the Senate floor yesterday. Since June, Kaine has been urging the administration to seek a specific authorization for military action against ISIL while pressing his Congressional colleagues to debate and vote on the mission. In September, Kaine introduced a draft authorization that supports the mission laid out by President Obama but includes four key provisions: 1) a strict limitation on U.S. ground combat troops; 2) a repeal of the 2002 Iraq Authorization for Use of Military Force; 3) a sunset after one year; and 4) a narrow definition of “associated forces.” ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://morgangriffith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398371	Griffith Statement on Tax Increase Prevention Act	2014-12-03	2014	2014-12	Republican	House	VA	Morgan Griffith	G000568	morgangriffith.house.gov	legacy	Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA) issued the following statement after voting in favor of the Tax Increase Prevention Act (H.R. 5771): “This legislation, as is often the case, is far from perfect. It includes tax credits for the wind power industry, tax credits I oppose. However, it also contains provisions supportive of our farmers, teachers, and small businesses. As is the case with all compromises, I try to determine whether the good outweighs the bad.” “In this bill, I believe the good narrowly outweighs the bad. For example, I have heard from a number of farmers from the Ninth District of Virginia in support of this tax extender package and the benefits it will provide them. In voicing their support, the American Farm Bureau Federation said, ‘…the extension of tax provisions contained in this legislation are critically important to farm and ranch businesses as they engage in year-end business planning and file their 2014 taxes.’ One such provision is the Section 179 small business expensing limit, which makes it easier to purchase equipment.” “Another provision extends the ability for our K-12 school teachers to take an above-the-line deduction for some of the supplies they buy for projects in their classrooms.” “There are numerous other provisions which will be beneficial for small businesses and job creators.” “Accordingly, while admittedly having some negatives, I ultimately concluded it was in the overall best interest of the United States and the Ninth District to vote in favor of the bill.” ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://connolly.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=701	Nextgov: Federal IT Overhaul Included in Defense Bill, Headed for Vote	2014-12-03	2014	2014-12	Democrat	House	VA	Gerald Connolly	C001078	connolly.house.gov	legacy	The bipartisan Federal Information Technology Reform Act -- which aims to upgrade the government's creaky process for purchasing and building IT systems -- has made it past intense House-Senate negotiations and will be included in the compromise version of the Fiscal 2015 National Defense Authorization Act unveiled by lawmakers late Tuesday evening. Read more. share: f t Nextgov: Federal IT Overhaul Included in Defense Bill, Headed for Vote By Jack MooreThe biggest legislative overhaul in nearly 20 years to the way the federal government buys information technology has cleared a key hurdle and is headed for votes in both houses of Congress. The bipartisan Federal Information Technology Reform Act -- which aims to upgrade the government’s creaky process for purchasing and building IT systems -- has made it past intense House-Senate negotiations and will be included in the compromise version of the Fiscal 2015 National Defense Authorization Act unveiled by lawmakers late Tuesday evening.The House is expected to vote on the annual defense policy bill as early as Thursday.FITARA, as the bill is known, was first introduced by Reps. Darrell Issa, R-Calif., the chairman of the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee, and Gerry Connolly, a Democratic member of the committee from Virginia, in spring 2013 and gained greater urgency in the wake of the HealthCare.gov debacle last fall.Agency CIOs Get Boost Among the bill's most significant measures is an enhancement of the role of agency-level chief information officers. Under the legislation, agency CIOs would be granted a “significant role” in programming, budgeting and decision-making related to IT management and would have a say-so in their agency’s annual IT budget requests.The legislation would specifically bar agencies from signing any contracts for IT or IT services unless the agency CIO has signed off on the deals. The bill similarly bars agencies from reprogramming IT funds without CIO approval.T…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://connolly.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=702	Connolly Welcomes Pastor Ryoo to Give House Prayer	2014-12-03	2014	2014-12	Democrat	House	VA	Gerald Connolly	C001078	connolly.house.gov	legacy	On Wednesday, Congressman Connolly welcomed Pastor Ryoo, from Korean Central Presbyterian Church in Centreville, Virginia to give the opening prayer at the U.S. House of Representatives. Read more. share: f t Congressman Connolly, Speaker John Boehner and House Chaplain Reverand Patrick J. Conroy welcome Pastor Ryoo to serve as guest chaplain of the U.S. House of Representatives.On Wednesday, Congressman Connolly welcomed Pastor Ryoo, from the Korean Central Presbyterian Church in Centreville, Virginia to give the opening prayer at the U.S. House of Representatives. Each year, Members of Congress can recommend someone from their congressional district to serve as guest pastor of the House for a day. Pastor Ryoo was selected to be a guest chaplain at the request of Congressman Connolly. On the Floor of the House today, Connolly said, "I am proud to welcome Pastor Ryoo, who I think really is emblematic of the success of the immigrant population in the United States, to offer this morning's prayer. He represents our future." Congressman Connolly visits with Pastor Ryoo of the Korean Central Presbyterian Church in Centreville, Virginia prior to giving this morning's opening prayer at the House of Representatives. Pastor Ryoo offers the opening prayer at the U.S. House of RepresentativesConnolly Floor Statement on the contributions of the Korean-American and the Korean Central Presbyterian Church to our community.Wednesday, December 3, 2014 Congressman Gerald E. Connolly (VA-11th)Mr. Speaker,I am pleased to join you in welcoming Pastor David Ryoo from the Korean Central Presbyterian Church, located in Centreville, Virginia, and the 11th Congressional District, for today’s invocation.The Church has been active in our community since it was founded 41 years ago in Vienna. Prior to my election to Congress, I served as Chairman of the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, where I had the opportunity to collaborate with that congregation on the construction of i…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://connolly.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=705	Federal Times: Lawmakers Strike Deal on Sweeping IT Reform Bill	2014-12-03	2014	2014-12	Democrat	House	VA	Gerald Connolly	C001078	connolly.house.gov	legacy	Known as the Federal Information Technology Acquisition Reform Act (FITARA), the bill would significantly empower CIOs at the largest civilian agencies. Read more. share: f t Federal Times: Lawmakers Strike Deal on Sweeping IT Reform BillAaron BoydSenators have included a sweeping federal IT reform bill in the 2015 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), almost guaranteeing its passage.Known as the Federal Information Technology Acquisition Reform Act (FITARA), the bill would significantly empower CIOs at the largest civilian agencies.If approved, the bill will give CIOs:? More discretion over how IT budgets are set and used;? Authority over planning and implementing large-scale projects;? Hiring approval for CIOs at component agencies; and? Final approval on contracts for all major IT products and services.The bill would not affect the Defense Department or intelligence agencies.CIOs also would be required to submit regular reports to the Office of Management and Budget and update public-facing dashboards detailing the status of large IT investments.The measure also codifies some best practices, including a risk management approach to cybersecurity, regular reviews of agency IT portfolios, and an endorsement of the Federal Data Center Consolidation Initiative.The Senate bill leaves out some provisions included in an earlier House-passed version. Namely, the bill does not include a “myth-busting” initiative aimed at encouraging more robust communications between federal officials and the private sector. It also lacks a working capital fund for cloud procurement.Nevertheless, sponsors of the House bill said Wednesday they were pleased with the final version.“By giving decision-makers the ability to make changes appropriate for their agency, we can ensure that the most knowledgeable will now be able to enact solutions that had otherwise plagued their agencies,” said House Government Oversight Committee Chairman Darrell Issa, R-Calif., an original FITARA…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-calls-on-congress-to-debate-and-vote-on-mission-against-isil-before-adjourning	Kaine Calls On Congress To Debate & Vote On Mission Against ISIL Before Adjourning	2014-12-03	2014	2014-12	Democrat	House	VA	Tim Kaine	K000384	www.kaine.senate.gov	legacy	Kaine Calls On Congress To Debate & Vote On Mission Against ISIL Before Adjourning Wednesday, December 3, 2014 WASHINGTON, D.C. – In remarks on the Senate floor today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine, a member of the Senate Foreign Relations and Armed Services Committees, reiterated his months-long call for Congress to debate and vote on U.S. military action against ISIL – a mission that has gone on since August without congressional authorization. In his remarks, Kaine made two requests: 1) that President Obama follow through on his commitment to engage Congress and immediately demand a debate and vote on an authorization for use of military force; 2) that Congress stay in session until a debate and vote is held. “We have gone four months without any meaningful debate about this war,” Kaine said.” Now many are saying that we need to delay until after the New Year. … So the unilateral war would extend to at least five months and in all likelihood longer before Congress gets around to any meaningful discussion of the ISIL threat.” For over five months, Kaine has been urging the Obama Administration to seek a specific authorization for use of military force against ISIL while pressing his Congressional colleagues to take action. In September, Kaine introduced a draft authorization that supports the mission laid out by President Obama but includes four key limitations: 1) no U.S. ground troops; 2) a repeal of the 2002 Iraq Authorization for Use of Military Force; 3) a sunset after one year; and 4) a narrow definition of “associated forces.” “Giving any president a greenlight to wage unilateral war without any meaningful debate or authorization would be deeply destructive of the legitimacy of the legislative branch of our government,” Kaine said. “It would be deeply disrespectful of our citizens; and it would be especially disrespectful of the troops who are risking their lives every day while we do nothing.” Full transcript of Kaine’s remarks today is below: Madam President, n…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-wittman-bipartisan-battlefield-protection-bill-heads-to-house-senate-floors-for-a-vote	Kaine, Wittman Bipartisan Battlefield Protection Bill Heads To House, Senate Floors For A Vote	2014-12-03	2014	2014-12	Democrat	House	VA	Tim Kaine	K000384	www.kaine.senate.gov	legacy	Kaine, Wittman Bipartisan Battlefield Protection Bill Heads To House, Senate Floors For A Vote Wednesday, December 3, 2014 WASHINGTON, D.C. – The American Battlefield Protection Program Amendments Act, a bipartisan bill introduced by U.S. Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA) and Thad Cochran (R-MS) and U.S. Representatives Rob Wittman (R-VA) and Rush Holt (D-NJ), was included in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) of 2015 announced by Senate and House negotiators last night. The legislation will reauthorize a National Park Service program that partners with landowners to preserve Civil War battlefields at risk of being lost to haphazard development. It will make Revolutionary War and War of 1812 battlefield sites eligible as well. This program has preserved 24,000 acres of at-risk Civil War battlefield land in 16 states, including 11,500 acres in Virginia – more than any other state. A 2013 study found that compared to average tourists, tourists visiting Civil War battlefields stay twice as long and spend double the money. Kaine has pushed for passage of the bill throughout the year, and, as Governor, worked with the General Assembly to support the program at the state level. The House of Representatives is expected to consider the bill this week followed by Senate consideration next week. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/warner-kaine-statement-on-confirmation-of-nani-coloretti-as-deputy-secretary-of-hud	Warner, Kaine Statement On Confirmation Of Nani Coloretti As Deputy Secretary Of HUD	2014-12-03	2014	2014-12	Democrat	House	VA	Tim Kaine	K000384	www.kaine.senate.gov	legacy	Warner, Kaine Statement On Confirmation Of Nani Coloretti As Deputy Secretary Of HUD Wednesday, December 3, 2014 WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Mark Warner and Tim Kaine released the following joint statement praising the confirmation of Nani Coloretti to be the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Deputy Secretary, making her the fourth female Deputy Secretary and one of the highest-ranking Filipino-Americans serving in the Administration: “President Obama made an excellent choice in nominating Nani Coloretti to be the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Deputy Secretary, the Chief Operating Officer of the agency. We are proud to have joined our Senate colleagues in confirming Ms. Coloretti, who is currently the Assistant Secretary for Management at the U.S. Department of the Treasury and has more than 20 years of experience in budget, finance, economic and program analysis. We are confident that Ms. Coloretti will focus her talent and experience on growing the housing sector and advocating for communities across the country in need of critical assistance.” ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=a1120288-a961-48f4-9bcd-20c237c015fe	Warner, Kaine Statement on Confirmation of Nani Coloretti as Deputy Secretary of HUD	2014-12-03	2014	2014-12	Democrat	House	VA	Mark Warner	W000805	www.warner.senate.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Mark Warner and Tim Kaine released the following joint statement praising the confirmation of Nani Coloretti to be the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Deputy Secretary, making her the fourth female Deputy Secretary and one of the highest-ranking Filipino-Americans serving in the Administration: “President Obama made an excellent choice in nominating Nani Coloretti to be the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Deputy Secretary, the Chief Operating Officer of the agency. We are proud to have joined our Senate colleagues in confirming Ms. Coloretti, who is currently the Assistant Secretary for Management at the U.S. Department of the Treasury and has more than 20 years of experience in budget, finance, economic and program analysis. We are confident that Ms. Coloretti will focus her talent and experience on growing the housing sector and advocating for communities across the country in need of critical assistance.”	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=a2c6756c-35ba-4f98-a17f-dd2303cc6b77	Sen. Warner to Host Second Annual Virginia Science Summit at National Academy of Sciences	2014-12-03	2014	2014-12	Democrat	House	VA	Mark Warner	W000805	www.warner.senate.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON – On Friday, December 5, U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) will bring together a cross-section of Virginia’s leaders in science on Friday for the second annual Virginia Summit on Science, Engineering and Medicine, co-hosted by Sen. Warner, the Virginia Academy of Science, Engineering, and Medicine (VASEM) and Virginia Tech. This summit will provide an opportunity for VASEM members and their protégés to join with representatives from government, industry, and institutions of higher education in Virginia to discuss Big Data and its implications for science, technology, healthcare and industry. “In an era of diminished federal support for research and development, it is more important than ever for Virginia’s leading thinkers across institutions and disciplines to increase collaboration,” Sen. Warner said. “Virginia is home to some of the nation’s top technology companies and leading education and research institutions. That means the Commonwealth can play an important role in the rapidly growing sector of Big Data. This second annual Summit provides an exciting venue for some of the best and brightest in Virginia to discuss the challenges and benefits of Big Data. I am eager to see what Friday’s program inspires.” “Virginia has some of the nation’s leading universities, and I commend the Virginia Academy for addressing important ‘big data’ applications that will enable us to be on the forefront in solving some of the most complex societal and medical problems of our day,” said Virginia Tech President Timothy Sands. “We have worked hard over the past year and a half to get VASEM off the ground. This is the second convergence of the group, and I’m looking forward to the further collaboration and conversations that this meeting stimulates,” said Joe Campbell, the Lucian Carr Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of Virginia and President of VASEM. Summit participants include representatives from some of Virginia’s top educational institutions; healthcare organizations…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://wittman.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=552	Senate Unanimously passes Warner-Wittman Chesapeake Bay Accountability Act	2014-12-02	2014	2014-12	Republican	House	VA	Robert Wittman	W000804	wittman.house.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C. The U.S. Senate today passed the bipartisan Chesapeake Bay Accountability Act of 2014, sponsored by U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) and U.S. Rep. Rob Wittman (R-VA-01), by unanimous consent. The legislation will bring increased accountability measures and a more collaborative management approach to Chesapeake Bay restoration efforts and spending. The 2013 legislation now returns to the House of Representatives for approval. The Chesapeake Bay Accountability and Recovery Act of 2014 requires the U.S. Office of Management and Budget to prepare a crosscut budget to better track the progress of Bay restoration efforts, comparing costs and the performance of restoration activities by the various federal agencies involved in the Bay preservation effort. The multi-state, multi-year initiative to restore the health of the Chesapeake Bay involves at least 10 federal agencies, Virginia and five other states, the District of Columbia, and more than 1,000 local governments. The Chesapeake Bay is a national treasure and a centerpiece of the culture and economy of many coastal communities in Virginia, and neighboring states. I commend the collaborative efforts of federal, state, and local partners across the watershed who are working tirelessly to preserve and restore the Bay, Senator Warner said. In order to improve the health of the Chesapeake Bay during a time of limited federal funding, we must make sure that every dollar spent on restoration activities produces real results. I will continue to focus on ways to be a good steward of both the taxpayer's dollar and the Commonwealth's invaluable natural resources. Today's Senate passage of this Chesapeake Bay legislation is a tremendous step forward, Wittman said. After seeing my Chesapeake Bay Accountability and Recovery Act pass the House with overwhelming bipartisan support numerous times, I am thrilled to see progress in the Senate. I appreciate Senator Warner's steady cooperation and leadership in getting the bill passed through the Senate in its cur…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-suggests-improvements-to-proposed-epa-rules	Kaine Suggests Improvements To Proposed EPA Rules	2014-12-02	2014	2014-12	Democrat	House	VA	Tim Kaine	K000384	www.kaine.senate.gov	legacy	Kaine Suggests Improvements To Proposed EPA Rules Comments come in response to EPA’s request for input on proposed Clean Power Plan Tuesday, December 2, 2014 WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine submitted a letter to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in response to the agency’s request for input on its proposed Clean Power Plan, which aims to reduce carbon pollution from existing power plants by 30 percent by 2030. In the letter, Kaine suggests that the proposed standard should do more to reward states like Virginia that have already taken major steps toward creating a cleaner power sector. While the current proposal sets state-by-state goals for reducing carbon emissions, these goals do not sufficiently account for many of the proactive steps that states like the Commonwealth have already taken to reduce their own emissions. Kaine also suggests that the EPA develop a procedure for building flexibility into the proposal should there be unforeseen impacts on the affordability or reliability of electricity. In addition, he asks EPA to project the potential emission savings from energy efficiency measures on federal government installations like Naval Station Norfolk and the Pentagon. Governor McAuliffe’s Virginia Energy plan calls for aggressive implementation of energy efficiency in state facilities, and he believes federal facilities should also be leading the way. “I’ve never accepted the view that cleaning up pollution and growing the economy are incompatible goals,” Kaine said regarding his comments . “I believe the overwhelming scientific consensus on climate change necessitates action to reduce the carbon pollution responsible for it. I’m confident we can take such action in a manner that succeeds at this goal while maintaining affordable, reliable electricity for families and businesses in the Commonwealth and across the nation.” The full text of Kaine’s letter to the EPA can be found here. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-welcomes-compromise-defense-bill-highlights-wins-for-virginia-	Kaine Welcomes Compromise Defense Bill, Highlights Wins For Virginia	2014-12-02	2014	2014-12	Democrat	House	VA	Tim Kaine	K000384	www.kaine.senate.gov	legacy	Kaine Welcomes Compromise Defense Bill, Highlights Wins For Virginia House expected to consider legislation this week, Senate to follow next week Tuesday, December 2, 2014 WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tim Kaine, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today welcomed compromise defense bill language announced by House and Senate negotiators. The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) of 2015 is substantially based on the two bills passed last spring by the Senate and House Armed Services Committees, respectively, and includes important provisions Kaine advocated for on behalf of Virginia in the Senate version. The full House of Representatives is expected to consider the defense bill this week followed by Senate consideration next week. “I’m proud of the bipartisan work that went into this bill, which provides critical support to our military personnel and civilians, especially shipbuilders, and includes my amendments to maintain our 11-carrier fleet and improve the credentialing process for servicemembers so employers better understand their skills when they transition into the civilian workforce,” said Kaine. “This legislation includes important provisions to protect commissary subsidies, improve policies for prosecuting sexual assault, and give our troops a pay raise. While I’m pleased that we are directing resources to the fight against ISIL, Congress should have had a debate on an authorization for our mission in Iraq and Syria, which has continued for nearly four months without approval from Congress. It is the height of public immorality to ask servicemembers to risk their lives when we’re not willing to debate and vote on this issue.” The following list highlights many of the programs and provisions included in the final compromise authorization language which Kaine pushed for during the markup process: Refueling and Overhaul of the USS George Washington (CVN 73): Following Kaine’s successful efforts in the Senate Armed Services Committe…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=6129481d-b64b-49c4-98ac-c87c6fe8687a	Sen. Warner Announces Keyanna Conner As Director of Government & Community Affairs	2014-12-02	2014	2014-12	Democrat	House	VA	Mark Warner	W000805	www.warner.senate.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON – U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) announced today that Keyanna Conner will join his state staff as Director of Government and Community Affairs. Ms. Conner, who previously served as a senior advisor on Sen. Warner’s successful 2014 re-election campaign, will serve as a primary point of contact between the Senator’s office and representatives of state and local governments, public agencies and other constituency organizations. She will be based in Richmond. “I am very pleased that Keyanna Conner will be joining our state staff as director of government and community affairs,” said Sen. Warner. “Effective communication and problem-solving for state and local governments, and the Virginians they serve, remains a key priority for our entire office.” “I am thrilled and honored to join Senator Warner's staff, and I look forward to engaging and empowering state and local leaders in communities across Virginia,” Conner said. Conner graduated from Hampton University in 2006 and currently is completing a doctoral degree in organic chemistry at Virginia Commonwealth University. She grew up on the Eastern Shore of Virginia.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=ac1a780a-6df3-4fc7-98e9-a13a90b25a58	Senate Unanimously Passes Warner-Wittman Chesapeake Accountability Act	2014-12-02	2014	2014-12	Democrat	House	VA	Mark Warner	W000805	www.warner.senate.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. Senate today passed the bipartisan Chesapeake Bay Accountability Act of 2014, sponsored by U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) and U.S. Rep. Rob Wittman (R-VA-01), by unanimous consent. The legislation will bring increased accountability measures and a more collaborative management approach to Chesapeake Bay restoration efforts and spending. The 2013 legislation now returns to the House of Representatives for approval. The Chesapeake Bay Accountability and Recovery Act of 2014 requires the U.S. Office of Management and Budget to prepare a crosscut budget to better track the progress of Bay restoration efforts, comparing costs and the performance of restoration activities by the various federal agencies involved in the Bay preservation effort. The multi-state, multi-year initiative to restore the health of the Chesapeake Bay involves at least 10 federal agencies, Virginia and five other states, the District of Columbia, and more than 1,000 local governments. “The Chesapeake Bay is a national treasure and a centerpiece of the culture and economy of many coastal communities in Virginia, and neighboring states. I commend the collaborative efforts of federal, state, and local partners across the watershed who are working tirelessly to preserve and restore the Bay,” Senator Warner said. “In order to improve the health of the Chesapeake Bay during a time of limited federal funding, we must make sure that every dollar spent on restoration activities produces real results. I will continue to focus on ways to be a good steward of both the taxpayer’s dollar and the Commonwealth’s invaluable natural resources.” “Today’s Senate passage of this Chesapeake Bay legislation is a tremendous step forward,” Wittman said. “After seeing my Chesapeake Bay Accountability and Recovery Act pass the House with overwhelming bipartisan support numerous times, I am thrilled to see progress in the Senate. I appreciate Senator Warner’s steady cooperation and leadership in getting the bill passed through the Sen…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://morgangriffith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398370	Congressman Griffith's Weekly E-Newsletter 12.1.14	2014-12-01	2014	2014-12	Republican	House	VA	Morgan Griffith	G000568	morgangriffith.house.gov	legacy	Immigration – An Update It has been more than a week since President Obama announced his executive actions regarding immigration. I have serious concerns about his actions and their legality. My concerns include whether the President can broadly and unilaterally grant illegal immigrants permission to work. Further, among the red flags being raised about the President’s immigration announcement is a recent report by the Washington Times indicating that, under this plan, “…businesses will have a $3,000-per-employee incentive to hire illegal immigrants over native-born workers because of a quirk of Obamacare.” The President’s plan, though it declares as many as 5 million illegal immigrants to be eligible for work permits, deems them ineligible for public benefits such as Obamacare. As the Washington Times notes, “…that means businesses who hire them won’t have to pay a penalty for not providing them health coverage — making them $3,000 more attractive than a similar native-born worker, whom the business by law would have to cover.” According to this same Washington Times report, an anonymous official at the Department of Homeland Security confirmed that these immigrants will be unable to access Obamacare, creating this Obamacare employer mandate loophole. I can’t help but wonder if the President or his team noticed this conflict ahead of time, or if they failed – as usual – to notice yet another Obamacare problem in advance. My office has heard from a number of you concerned about the President’s executive announcement regarding immigration. The overwhelming majority feel that: the President is acting outside of his authority with this executive action; this action is unfair to those who have legally immigrated to the United States; Congress should look into stripping funding for implementation of the executive action, etc. But in fairness, I should note that approximately 3% of those contacting us about this have done so to voice their support for the President’s action. Discussions regarding…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-tours-gwu-science-and-technology-campus-in-ashburn-speaks-with-nursing-students	Kaine Tours GWU Science & Technology Campus In Ashburn, Speaks With Nursing Students	2014-12-01	2014	2014-12	Democrat	House	VA	Tim Kaine	K000384	www.kaine.senate.gov	legacy	Kaine Tours GWU Science & Technology Campus In Ashburn, Speaks With Nursing Students Monday, December 1, 2014 WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine joined George Washington University (GWU) President Steven Knapp on a tour of the School of Nursing’s state-of-the-art Skills and Simulation Lab at the Virginia Science and Technology Campus in Ashburn. After the tour, Kaine spoke with School of Nursing students, including participants in the Veterans Bachelor of Science Nursing Program that helps veterans transition their military skills into a nursing career, about the demand for skilled healthcare workers in the Commonwealth and across the nation. “I wanted to come and learn about the nursing program here at George Washington, which does a great job for the students who are pursuing careers in healthcare,” said Kaine. “Technical training is important, especially now with the significant and growing need for highly trained health care professionals. GW is at the pinnacle of training for health professions and campuses like this are where the solutions lie.” The George Washington School of Nursing is ranked among the top 50 nursing schools in the country. Through an agreement with Virginia Community Colleges, the GW School of Nursing offers guaranteed admission to students who graduate with an Associate’s Degree in Nursing from any accredited community college nursing program in Virginia and who meet certain academic requirements. Kaine co-chairs the bipartisan Senate Career and Technical Education (CTE) Caucus, which focuses on improving and strengthening access to CTE to ensure that students of all ages are prepared with the skills they need for the jobs of the 21st century. Since taking office, one of Kaine’s top priorities has been reducing veterans unemployment and helping to ease the transition from active duty to a civilian career. Kaine’s first bill, the Troop Talent Act, provides active duty servicemembers with the tools they need to receive credential…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=08fdd212-826b-4253-bdd4-1967ac9e08eb	President Signs Sen. Warners Bipartisan Initiative to Eliminate Unnecessary Federal Reports	2014-12-01	2014	2014-12	Democrat	House	VA	Mark Warner	W000805	www.warner.senate.gov	legacy	On Tuesday, November 25, the President signed the Government Reports Elimination Act (H.R. 4194), a bipartisan initiative to eliminate or modify more than 50 unnecessary, outdated, or duplicative federal reports required of more than a dozen federal agencies. The Government Reports Elimination Act is the House version of Sens. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) and Sen. Kelly Ayotte (R-NH) companion legislation, which passed the Senate by unanimous consent on September 16. Among the reports to be eliminated under the legislation: a Department of Homeland Security annual report on illegal imports of products made with dog or cat fur, and a Department of Agriculture report on the number of acres of peanuts planted each year. Additionally, Senators Warner and Ayotte introduced the Reports Reduction Act of 2014 on November 13, to further their bipartisan efforts to increase government performance by removing government waste and inefficiency. This legislation would eliminate or modify an additional 67 unnecessary reports. “I’m very pleased the President has signed this important step towards increasing efficiency in the federal government,” Senator Warner said. “There is no reason that hundreds of federal employees should spend countless hours producing outdated and often useless reports. Getting rid of these 50 unnecessary reports is a simple but effective step, but we can and should go even further. Sen. Ayotte and I have introduced additional legislation to take aim at 67 more unnecessary federal reports produced each year. We need to continue to find smart ways to create a more efficient government to ensure our taxpayers dollars are being spent productively.” Sen. Warner serves as Chairman of the Budget Committee’s bipartisan Government Performance Task Force, and Sen. Ayotte serves as the Ranking Republican Member. The Task Force was established in 2009 to examine how the government measures the cost-effectiveness of federal programs with a goal of saving taxpayer dollars. Sen. Warner was a lead sponsor of the Governme…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=2779a86e-78c4-45ed-8522-8bbcae0afa87	Statement of Sen. Warner in support of the nomination of Dr. Vivek Murthy to be U.S. Surgeon General	2014-12-01	2014	2014-12	Democrat	House	VA	Mark Warner	W000805	www.warner.senate.gov	legacy	U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) released the following statement in support of the nomination of Dr. Vivek Murthy to be Surgeon General of the United States. "Dr. Murthy brings an entrepreneurial focus, and he is committed to using technology to expand our outreach on health and wellness in innovative ways. I believe he will make an excellent Surgeon General,” Senator Warner said.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=8ed4c25d-1ae9-4c3f-86ae-5df29375a789	Statement of Sen. Warner on the Death of Dr. William C. Bosher, Jr.	2014-12-01	2014	2014-12	Democrat	House	VA	Mark Warner	W000805	www.warner.senate.gov	legacy	U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) released the following statement on the passing of Dr. William C. Bosher, Jr.: “I am so sorry to learn of the passing of Dr. Bill Bosher, a career public servant who started as a classroom teacher, served as public school chief for Henrico and Chesterfield counties, and also served as Virginia’s Superintendent of Public Instruction. Bill Bosher was a thoughtful policymaker and effective administrator. He demonstrated a lifelong commitment to the power of quality public schools to create opportunities for all of Virginia’s young people. I offer my condolences to his family, friends and many colleagues,” Senator Warner said.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.kaine.senate.gov/photos/tour-of-gwu-science-and-technology-campus_-ashburn	Tour Of GWU Science and Technology Campus - Ashburn	2014-11-26	2014	2014-11	Democrat	House	VA	Tim Kaine	K000384	www.kaine.senate.gov	legacy	Senator Tim Kaine joined George Washington University (GWU) President Steven Knapp on a tour of the School of Nursing’s state-of-the-art Skills and Simulation Lab at the Virginia Science and Technology Campus in Ashburn. After the tour, Kaine spoke with School of Nursing students, including participants in the Veterans Bachelor of Science Nursing Program that helps veterans transition their military skills into a nursing career, about the demand for skilled healthcare workers in the Commonwealth and across the nation.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/warner-kaine-back-plan-to-better-protect-military-families-from-abusive-financial-practices	Warner, Kaine Back Plan To Better Protect Military Families From Abusive Financial Practices	2014-11-26	2014	2014-11	Democrat	House	VA	Tim Kaine	K000384	www.kaine.senate.gov	legacy	Warner, Kaine Back Plan To Better Protect Military Families From Abusive Financial Practices Wednesday, November 26, 2014 WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Mark Warner and Tim Kaine, along with 40 of their Senate colleagues, sent a letter in support of the Department of Defense’s (DOD) plan to update the Military Lending Act (MLA) and close existing loopholes to better protect servicemembers and their families from abusive financial practices. The letter, sent to U.S. Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel, expresses strong support for the proposed new rule to help prevent lenders from charging excessive fees and taking advantage of military families. “As our servicemembers are asked to take on even more tasks in defense of our nation, we should take every opportunity to protect them and their families here at home, especially from unscrupulous lenders,” the senators wrote. “We strongly support the proposed MLA rule and urge that the final MLA rule be similarly robust in enhancing protections for servicemembers and their families, producing significant cost savings for DOD, and improving military readiness.” This is the third action Warner and Kaine have taken in recent months to protect servicemembers and their families from abusive financial practices. In August, they called for a federal investigation into aggressive debt collection actions used by retailers against servicemembers. In response to a separate letter from Warner and Kaine, DOD recently announced a policy change to protect servicemembers from businesses that use allotments to trap Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines and their families in illegal predatory loans. Congress first passed the MLA following a 2006 Pentagon report that found that “predatory lending undermines military readiness, harms the morale of troops and their families, and adds to the cost of fielding an all-volunteer fighting force.” This law capped the annual interest rates for consumer credit to servicemembers and their dependents whil…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=7dac238b-cb0f-470b-950f-f23651bfbf77	Warner, Kaine Back Plan to Better Protect Military Families from Abusive Financial Practices	2014-11-26	2014	2014-11	Democrat	House	VA	Mark Warner	W000805	www.warner.senate.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Mark Warner and Tim Kaine, along with 40 of their Senate colleagues, sent a letter in support of the Department of Defense’s (DOD) plan to update the Military Lending Act (MLA) and close existing loopholes to better protect servicemembers and their families from abusive financial practices. The letter, sent to U.S. Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel, expresses strong support for the proposed new rule to help prevent lenders from charging excessive fees and taking advantage of military families. “As our servicemembers are asked to take on even more tasks in defense of our nation, we should take every opportunity to protect them and their families here at home, especially from unscrupulous lenders,” the senators wrote. “We strongly support the proposed MLA rule and urge that the final MLA rule be similarly robust in enhancing protections for servicemembers and their families, producing significant cost savings for DOD, and improving military readiness.” This is the third action Warner and Kaine have taken in recent months to protect servicemembers and their families from abusive financial practices. In August, they called for a federal investigation into aggressive debt collection actions used by retailers against servicemembers. In response to a separate letter from Warner and Kaine, DOD recently announced a policy change to protect servicemembers from businesses that use allotments to trap Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines and their families in illegal predatory loans. Congress first passed the MLA following a 2006 Pentagon report that found that “predatory lending undermines military readiness, harms the morale of troops and their families, and adds to the cost of fielding an all-volunteer fighting force.” This law capped the annual interest rates for consumer credit to servicemembers and their dependents while giving DOD the authority to define what loans should be covered. The DOD’s 2007 implementing regulations narrowly included only three types of loans: certain…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20141205201904/http://goodlatte.house.gov/press_releases/617	GOODLATTE & HENSARLING TO AG: WHY DOES JUSTICE DEPT. REQUIRE BANKS TO DONATE TO ACTIVIST GROUPS?	2014-11-25	2014	2014-11	Republican	House	VA	Robert Goodlatte	G000289	web.archive.org	legacy	GOODLATTE & HENSARLING TO AG: WHY DOES JUSTICE DEPT. REQUIRE BANKS TO DONATE TO ACTIVIST GROUPS? WASHINGTON, D.C. – House Judiciary Committee Chairman Bob Goodlatte (R-Va.) and House Financial Services Chairman Jeb Hensarling (R-Tex.) wrote a letter to Attorney General Eric Holder requesting information about two questionable terms in the Justice Department’s recent mortgage-lending settlement agreements with two major banks. The Department’s most recent settlements with Bank of America and Citigroup required millions of dollars in minimum donations to activist groups from an approved list, which includes La Raza and NeighborWorks, which has been described as “fund(ing) a national network of left-wing community organizers operating in the mold of Acorn.” In addition, as an incentive for donations above the minimum to these groups, settling banks earn two dollars’ worth of credit against their Department-mandated consumer relief commitment for every one dollar donated. As stated in the letter, “[T]hese startling terms in the Justice Department’s two latest settlements make them look less like consumer relief and more like bank ‘shakedowns’ to benefit special interest groups.” Read more about the unprecedented terms of the Justice Department’s mortgage-lending settlements in the text of the letter to Attorney General Holder below: Dear Attorney General Holder: We request information about the Justice Department’s mortgage-lending lawsuits and whether they actually deliver redress to consumers genuinely harmed. Relief for these consumers is long overdue, yet the Justice Department’s record settlements have left homeowners disappointed. It seems that the alleged victims are not the primary benef…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://morgangriffith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398368	Congressman Griffith's Weekly E-Newsletter 11.24.14	2014-11-24	2014	2014-11	Republican	House	VA	Morgan Griffith	G000568	morgangriffith.house.gov	legacy	Giving Thanks, Attitudes are Contagious While there are many important national issues deserving discussion, this week is a time of Thanksgiving. We all have things for which we should be grateful. But if you are like most, you or a loved one have likely experienced some trials and tribulations during the last year as well. I was recently reminded of this when my colleague, Congressman Alan Nunnelee (R-MS), returned to the House of Representatives. While in Washington in early May, Congressman Nunnelee began experiencing nausea and fatigue. Following consultation with a doctor, Congressman Nunnelee went to a hospital and underwent an MRI scan. As a result of this scan, doctors found a small abnormality on the right side of his brain, which doctors ultimately confirmed was a small intracranial mass, a brain tumor. Congressman Nunnelee underwent surgery on June 9, and his doctors were able to successfully remove the mass. However, as a result of a stroke he suffered during the surgery, Congressman Nunnelee experienced some complications including difficulty with his speech and mobility on his left side. Congressman Nunnelee spent this summer recovering and undergoing regular therapy in order to improve both his speech and mobility. Statements released by his office at the time indicate that his doctors were pleased with his progress, but confirmed that his follow-up treatment would require radiation and chemotherapy. Following his treatment, he has returned to work in our nation’s capital. According to a June 20 statement from his office, Congressman Nunnelee communicated to his family and staff: “Attitudes are contagious, so you better make sure yours is worth catching.” What a positive, inspiring perspective. Congressman Nunnelee recently gave the opening prayer at one of the House Republicans’ regular meetings, quoting I Thessalonians 5:18: “Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” I couldn’t help but reflect on this choice and on Congressman Nunnelee’s message …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://morgangriffith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398369	Ninth District Traveling Staff Office Hours for December	2014-11-24	2014	2014-11	Republican	House	VA	Morgan Griffith	G000568	morgangriffith.house.gov	legacy	Congressman Griffith’s Ninth District STAFF will be available at the following locations during the month of December. In the event of inclement weather (heavy snow, sleet, icy rain, etc.), traveling office hours may be rescheduled to avoid putting constituents at risk. Please contact the Christiansburg Office at 540-381-5671 or the Abingdon Office at 276-525-1405 with any questions or to confirm that traveling hours are still in effect. December 3, 2014 Smyth County: 9:00 am – 11:00 am Town Council Chambers 138 West Main Street Marion, VA Covington: 10:00 am – 12:00 pm Covington City Hall City Hall Conference Room 333 W. Locust Street Covington, VA Craig County: 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Craig County Administration Building 108 Court Street New Castle, VA Bristol: 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Bristol VA Public Library Upstairs Conference Room 701 Goode Street Bristol, VA December 5, 2014 Martinsville: 11:00 am – 1:00 pm NCI Room 106 – Classroom Building 30 Franklin Street Martinsville, VA Lee County: 10:00 am – 12:00 pm Lee County Sheriff’s Office Conference Room – Suite U101 33640 Main Street Jonesville, VA Norton: 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Norton City Council Chambers 618 Virginia Avenue NW Norton, VA December 9, 2014 Giles County: 10:00 am – 12:00 pm Pearisburg Town Hall 112 Tazewell Street Pearisburg, VA Salem: 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Salem Library 28 East Main Street Salem, VA December 10, 2014 Radford: 10:00 am – 12:00 pm Radford Public Library Meeting Room 30 West Main Street Radford, VA Pulaski County: 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Pulaski County Library Meeting Room 60 3rd Street NW Pulaski, VA December 11, 2014 Grayson County: 10:00 am – 12:00 pm Grayson County Administration Building Board of Supervisors Room – Suite 206 129 Davis Street Independence, VA Russell County: 10:00 am – 12:00 pm Southwest Virginia Technology Development Center 141 Highland Drive Le…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20141205201906/http://goodlatte.house.gov/press_releases/616	GOODLATTE: ROANOKE'S POFF BUILDING A 'HALLMARK IN WASTE'	2014-11-24	2014	2014-11	Republican	House	VA	Robert Goodlatte	G000289	web.archive.org	legacy	GOODLATTE: ROANOKE'S POFF BUILDING A 'HALLMARK IN WASTE' WASHINGTON, D.C. – House Judiciary Committee Chairman Bob Goodlatte (R-Va.) today issued a Committee report outlining the findings of the Judiciary Committee’s thorough investigation into the mismanagement of taxpayer funds during the renovation of the Richard H. Poff Federal Building located in Roanoke, Virginia. The Poff Federal Building houses several critical federal entities, including the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia, the U.S. Marshals Service district headquarters, and the Department of Veterans Affairs Roanoke Regional Office. Chairman Goodlatte has aggressively sought answers from GSA regarding the cost and scope of this wasteful project. The House Judiciary Committee’s report documents the U.S. General Services Administration’s (GSA) mishandling of the Poff Building renovation from its failure to follow fundamental procedures designed to prevent government waste to its failure to properly plan and to anticipate and manage the project. The report also highlights GSA’s efforts to dodge concerns from the local community and from Congress. Below are statements from Chairman Goodlatte and House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman Bill Shuster (R-Pa.), the Committee with jurisdiction over the GSA. Chairman Goodlatte: “One simple phrase can sum up the renovation of the Poff Federal Building in Roanoke – it’s a hallmark in waste. In 2009, it was announced that nearly $51 million of taxpayer money would be spent to make the Poff Federal Building more energy efficient. However, the project has instead resulted in ballooning costs and an overall lack of transparency, unresponsiveness, and dismissal of the public’s concerns. “As the Committee recently learned, problems with GSA’s res…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://wittman.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=549	Wittman Statement on the Resignation of Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel	2014-11-24	2014	2014-11	Republican	House	VA	Robert Wittman	W000804	wittman.house.gov	legacy	Wittman Statement on the Resignation of Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel f t # e Washington, D.C., November 24, 2014 Washington, D.C. Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-1) today issued the following statement on the resignation of Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel: I thank Secretary Hagel for his many years of service to the nation and for his efforts on behalf of our men and women in uniform. While this is a time of transition at the helm of the Department of Defense, it is critical that we remain resolute in our efforts to stop the sequester from going into effect. We must have a responsible defense budget in place that is governed by strategy and maintains an unwavering commitment to our military's readiness to ensure our ability to respond to current and future threats. I urge the President to act swiftly to nominate a successor. Congressman Rob Wittman represents the First District of Virginia. He serves on the House Natural Resources Committee and the House Armed Services Committee where he is the Chairman of the Readiness Subcommittee. # # # f t # e	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://wittman.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=550	CODEL Wittman Meets With King Abdullah of Jordan	2014-11-24	2014	2014-11	Republican	House	VA	Robert Wittman	W000804	wittman.house.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C. Representative Rob Wittman (VA-1) released the following statement today following the Congressional delegation meeting with His Majesty King Abdullah II of Jordan: There is no question that ISIS must be destroyed and it is critical that the coalition of NATO partners and nations in the Middle East such as Jordan continue to work together to that end, Wittman said. Jordan plays a key role in the region by leading the effort among Sunni Arab nations to combat ISIS. Today's meeting with King Abdullah was very enlightening and will be useful in developing an understanding within Congress to use in establishing defense policy to defeat ISIS. I look forward to continued dialogue with King Abdullah during his future travel to the United States. In connection with a CODEL focused on oversight of operations against ISIS in the Middle East, Representative Rob Wittman led a Congressional delegation including Representative Madeleine Bordallo of Guam, Representative Dave Loebsack of Iowa, Representative Mike Coffman of Colorado, Representative Bill Flores of Texas, and Representative Reid Ribble of Wisconsin to Qatar, Afghanistan and Jordan. The Congressional delegation met with King Abdullah of Jordan to discuss regional security efforts and traveled to the Syrian border to gain a firsthand understanding of the Syrian refugee crisis and Jordanian efforts to combat ISIS. Congressman Rob Wittman represents the First District of Virginia. He serves on the House Natural Resources Committee and the House Armed Services Committee where he is the Chairman of the Readiness Subcommittee. # # #	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://wittman.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=551	Wittman-Led Congressional Delegation Meets With Afghan Leadership	2014-11-24	2014	2014-11	Republican	House	VA	Robert Wittman	W000804	wittman.house.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C. Representative Rob Wittman (VA-1) released the following statement today regarding Congressional delegation meetings with newly-elected Afghan leadership: In connection with a CODEL focused on oversight of operations against ISIS in the Middle East, Representative Rob Wittman led a Congressional delegation including Representative Madeleine Bordallo of Guam, Representative Dave Loebsack of Iowa, Representative Mike Coffman of Colorado, Representative Bill Flores of Texas, and Representative Reid Ribble of Wisconsin to Qatar, Afghanistan and Jordan. In Afghanistan, the delegation met with President Ashraf Ghani and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Abdullah Abdullah to discuss the Bilateral Security Agreement which passed the lower house of the Afghan parliament during the meeting and was proudly announced to the delegation by President Ghani. The Status of Forces Agreement with NATO was also endorsed by the lower house of parliament. This was the first Congressional delegation from the U.S. House of Representatives to meet with Afghanistan's new leadership and congratulate them on the establishment of Afghanistan's first ever unity government and peaceful transition of government power, Wittman said. It is critical that dialogue between the leaders of our two countries continues to ensure thesafe and responsible withdrawal of our troops from Afghanistan and to meet the goals of strengthening Afghan forces, countering the threat of terrorism and improving security in the region. Congressman Rob Wittman represents the First District of Virginia. He serves on the House Natural Resources Committee and the House Armed Services Committee where he is the Chairman of the Readiness Subcommittee. # # #	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-statement-on-grand-jury-verdict-in-missouri	Kaine Statement On Grand Jury Verdict In Missouri	2014-11-24	2014	2014-11	Democrat	House	VA	Tim Kaine	K000384	www.kaine.senate.gov	legacy	Kaine Statement On Grand Jury Verdict In Missouri Monday, November 24, 2014 WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tim Kaine released the following statement following a Missouri grand jury’s decision not to indict Police Officer Darren Wilson: “In light of the grand jury decision not to prosecute officer Darren Wilson for the shooting of Michael Brown, I ask authorities to respect the right of all people to express themselves during this understandably emotional time, as well as urge the people of Ferguson and the nation to respond peacefully and constructively. Going forward, it’s critically important that we do more as a nation to address the tense relationship between law enforcement and local communities that was prevalent well before this tragedy, particularly in communities of color. Our criminal justice system should never give anyone in America reason to doubt its fairness. It’s on us to work through these challenges in Virginia, Missouri and across the country.” ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-statement-on-iran-nuclear-negotiations	Kaine Statement On Iran Nuclear Negotiations	2014-11-24	2014	2014-11	Democrat	House	VA	Tim Kaine	K000384	www.kaine.senate.gov	legacy	Kaine Statement On Iran Nuclear Negotiations Thursday, July 9, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tim Kaine, a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, released the following statement on Secretary of State John Kerry’s update on the nuclear talks with Iran today: “I support giving our negotiators the time to make sure they get the best deal possible with Iran to protect U.S. national security interests. Extending negotiations is much better than the alternative—walking away from significant progress that’s been made, including Iran’s compliance with the Joint Plan of Action that – for the first time – has successfully rolled back components of Iran’s nuclear weapons development. Nevertheless, Iranian leaders understand the decisions they need to make and must demonstrate the political will to reach an acceptable and verifiable agreement. I applaud the tireless and technical work of the P5+1 negotiators and am pleased that if a final nuclear deal is reached, there will be a prompt, deliberate and constructive process for Congressional review of it thanks to passage of the bipartisan Iran Nuclear Agreement Review Act.” ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-statement-on-secretary-hagel	Kaine Statement On Secretary Hagel	2014-11-24	2014	2014-11	Democrat	House	VA	Tim Kaine	K000384	www.kaine.senate.gov	legacy	Kaine Statement On Secretary Hagel Monday, November 24, 2014 WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tim Kaine, a member of the Senate Armed Services and Foreign Relations Committees, released the following statement today on Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel’s decision to step down: “Secretary Hagel has led the Department of Defense through an extremely challenging time in our nation’s history, including a severely constrained fiscal environment. He has been a strong advocate for military servicemembers and their families, ensuring the U.S. Armed Forces have the resources they need to respond to contingencies at home and around the globe. He also played a significant role this year in building a robust international coalition to combat ISIL and has helped lay the groundwork for a smooth transition in Afghanistan. I also thank Secretary Hagel for standing up for our nation’s veterans at every opportunity.” ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-statement-on-us-attorney-timothy-heaphy	Kaine Statement On U.S. Attorney Timothy Heaphy	2014-11-24	2014	2014-11	Democrat	House	VA	Tim Kaine	K000384	www.kaine.senate.gov	legacy	Kaine Statement On U.S. Attorney Timothy Heaphy Monday, November 24, 2014 WASHINGTON,D.C. – U.S. Senator Tim Kaine released the following statement on the decision by Timothy Heaphy, United States Attorney for the Western District of Virginia, to step down: “Tim has served the Western District of Virginia with distinction as U.S. Attorney. I appreciate Tim’s dedication to combatting prescription drug abuse, human trafficking, and illegal gang activity, and I’m confident his work to promote community outreach and crime prevention will leave a lasting mark on the region.” ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://connolly.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=703	Connolly Calls on Congress to Pass Connolly-Chabot Crimea Annexation Non-recognition Act	2014-11-21	2014	2014-11	Democrat	House	VA	Gerald Connolly	C001078	connolly.house.gov	legacy	Failure to stand up against Putin's illegal annexation of Crimea will set a danger and irrevocable precedent, said Rep. Connolly. Read more. share: f t On Thursday, the House Foreign Affairs Committee passed legislation prohibiting federal agencies from taking action that recognizes Russian sovereignty over Crimea.The bipartisan legislationwas introduced by Congressman Gerald E. Connolly (D-VA)with Steve Chabot (R-OH).“The United States must lead the way in refusing to recognize or legitimize the annexation of Crimea by the Russian Federation,” said Rep. Connolly. “Failure to stand up against Putin’s illegal annexation of Crimea will set a danger and irrevocable precedent.”“Acquiescence on the part of the U.S. threatens the security of all sovereign nations. Who is next? Moldova? Georgia? The Baltic Republics?” added Connolly.When Russian troops were identified as fomenting unrest in Crimea in February of this year, Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin adamantly denied involvement. By April, Russia had illegally annexed Crimea, and Putin had come clean about the blatant Russian intrusion, admitting that Russian troops had been deployed to Crimea before the illegal annexation on March 21.“Now, Putin’s playbook is being put to in eastern Ukraine,” said Connolly.Last week, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg certified a serious Russian military buildup in eastern Ukraine. The U.S. and our European allies have issued successive rounds of sanctions and warnings as Russian aggression has mounted and spurred violence and destruction in the region.“The U.S. lacks credibility objecting to Russia’s aggression without a firm stance on Crimea,” added Connolly. “Congress must make a simple, declarative statement on Russia’s illegal annexation of Crimea. The Crimea Annexation Non-recognition Act does just that.”Full Connolly Statement on H.R. 5241, Crimea Annexation Non-recognition ActHouse Committee on Foreign Affairs Thursday, November 20, 2014 Statement by R…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20141205201909/http://goodlatte.house.gov/press_releases/614	GOODLATTE: PRESIDENT OBAMA ALL-IN AGAINST THE CONSTITUTION	2014-11-21	2014	2014-11	Republican	House	VA	Robert Goodlatte	G000289	web.archive.org	legacy	GOODLATTE: PRESIDENT OBAMA ALL-IN AGAINST THE CONSTITUTION The House Judiciary Committee will hold a hearing on the President’s power grab when Congress returns WASHINGTON, D.C. – House Judiciary Committee Chairman Bob Goodlatte (R-Va.) issued the statement below in advance of President Obama’s speech today on his unconstitutional immigration actions in Las Vegas, Nevada. When Congress returns after the Thanksgiving break, the House Judiciary Committee will hold a hearing on President Obama’s unconstitutional power grab on Tuesday, December 2, 2014. The time and witness list will be announced later. Chairman Goodlatte: “Last night, President Obama went all-in against the Constitution and today he is doubling-down on his lawlessness in Las Vegas of all places. Unfortunately for the American people, the President has ignored their opinions and forged ahead with his plan, creating a constitutional crisis and an untold number of consequences for the American people and legal immigrants. “When Congress returns in early December, the House Judiciary Committee will hold a hearing on the unconstitutionality of President Obama’s power grab. The stakes of inaction are high and Congress will use the best tools available to stop President Obama from implementing his unconstitutional plan.” Chairman Goodlatte issued a statement last night on President Obama’s unconstitutional, unilateral actions. Earlier this week, Chairman Goodlatte joined House Homeland Security Chairman Michael McCaul (R-Texas) in sending a letter to President Obama demanding that he abandon his plan to change our immigration laws on his own. Additionally, Chairman Goodlatte’s op-ed on this subject was published in the Wall Street Journal this week.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20141205201912/http://goodlatte.house.gov/press_releases/615	EPA MUST ACT NOW TO REDUCE RFS	2014-11-21	2014	2014-11	Republican	House	VA	Robert Goodlatte	G000289	web.archive.org	legacy	EPA MUST ACT NOW TO REDUCE RFS WASHINGTON, D.C. – Following the Environmental Protection Agency’s announcement that the 2014 Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) will not be finalized this year, Reps. Bob Goodlatte (R-VA), Jim Costa (D-CA), Peter Welch (D-VT), and Steve Womack (R-AR) released the following statement: “These delays by the EPA are completely unacceptable. After nearly a year with no action on the proposed RFS for 2014, the EPA has decided to throw in the towel and punt the final decision until next year. It’s extremely disappointing that this decision on renewable fuel obligations for 2014 has taken so long and will not be resolved by the end of the year. How can the industry comply with a mandate that is released after they are already supposed to be in compliance? The longer stakeholders are forced to wait, the more uncertainty it creates in the marketplace. The EPA’s proposal for 2014, which included a reduction in the amount of ethanol blended into the fuel supply, was a positive step forward and acknowledged that the mandate is unworkable, detrimental to the environment, and price distorting to feedstock industries throughout the country. Action is needed now to reduce the ethanol mandate and provide much-needed relief. This issue needs to be addressed immediately, not several months into 2015. Today’s action once again proves that the RFS is unworkable and that Congress must reform the RFS.”	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/in-response-to-letter-from-warner-and-kaine-dod-announces-policy-change-to-protect-servicemembers-from-predatory-loans	In Response To Letter From Warner & Kaine, DOD Announces Policy Change To Protect Servicemembers From Predatory Loans	2014-11-21	2014	2014-11	Democrat	House	VA	Tim Kaine	K000384	www.kaine.senate.gov	legacy	In Response To Letter From Warner & Kaine, DOD Announces Policy Change To Protect Servicemembers From Predatory Loans Friday, November 21, 2014 WASHINGTON, D.C. – In response to a letter from U.S. Senators Mark Warner, Tim Kaine and three of their colleagues in July 2014, Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel announced a policy change today that will prohibit the use of allotments by servicemembers to purchase, lease or rent personal property. This important change will protect servicemembers from businesses that use allotments to trap Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines and their families in illegal predatory loans. “I’m very pleased Secretary Hagel and the Department of Defense are making important improvements to the allotment system to better protect our servicemembers from predatory lending,” Senator Warner said. “The current system allows unscrupulous companies to sign servicemembers up for questionable payment plans and then turn around and sue them for failure to pay. This policy change will prevent these sorts of abuses going forward and provide our military families with more of the protections they deserve.” “I applaud Secretary Hagel and the Department of Defense for taking this important step to protect our servicemembers and their families from predatory loans,” said Senator Kaine. We need to improve Department of Defense policy to ensure when our troops seek financial support, unscrupulous businesses cannot divert payments from a servicemember's monthly income to support their own profits. By protecting their financial stability, these changes also help ensure the military readiness of our troops.” The new regulations will go into effect in January 2015. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z

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Press releases

1,105 rows where state = "VA" and year = 2014 sorted by date descending

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