press: releases: 2,009 rows where state = "WA" and year = 2017 sorted by date descending

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2,009 rows where state = "WA" and year = 2017 sorted by date descending

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url	title	date ▲	year	month	party	chamber	state	member_name	bioguide_id	domain	date_source	text	has_text	collected_at	updated_at
https://reichert.house.gov/press-release/case-you-missed-it-reichert-op-ed-tacoma-news-tribune-daca	In Case You Missed It: Reichert Op-Ed in the Tacoma News Tribune on DACA	2017-12-28	2017	2017-12	Republican	House	WA	Dave Reichert	R000578	reichert.house.gov	legacy	Washington, DC - In case you missed it, Representative Dave Reichert (R-WA) published an op-ed in the Tacoma News Tribune on the pending deadline for DACA recipients. "This issue transcends politics. It is about these children, their hope and their opportunity for a better life - a life free from uncertainty." Read the rest of the article HERE.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/kilmer-reichert-call-on-defense-secretary-mattis-to-immediately-implement-inspector-generals-recommendations-to-comply-with-fbi-background-check-reporting-requirements-	Kilmer, Reichert Call on Defense Secretary Mattis to Immediately Implement Inspector General’s Recommendations to Comply with FBI Background Check Reporting Requirements	2017-12-27	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Derek Kilmer	K000381	kilmer.house.gov	legacy	12.27.17 Kilmer, Reichert Call on Defense Secretary Mattis to Immediately Implement Inspector Generals Recommendations to Comply with FBI Background Check Reporting Requirements WASHINGTON, DC Following the report earlier this month from the Department of Defenses Inspector General showing that the Military Services did not consistently submit convicted offenders fingerprint cards and final disposition reports to the FBIs Next Generation Identification Database, Representatives Derek Kilmer (D-WA) and Dave Reichert (R-WA) issued a letter asking Secretary of Defense James Mattis to immediately implement the OIGs recommendations to prevent future reporting lapses. The bipartisan pair also requested an outline of the DODs plan to correct previous reporting errors. The OIG found that the militarys failure to report convictions and to deliver fingerprints to the FBI was systemic. The OIG has conducted regular investigations identifying this issue since 1997. This most recent report found 601 of the 2502 fingerprint cards that the DOD was required to report on to the FBI were not submitted as required. That amounts to 24 percent. One of the unreported cases was the Air Forces court-martialing of Devin P. Kelley who was convicted on two counts equivalent to felonies in the civil system stemming from a domestic violence incident. Had the Air Force properly reported the conviction, Devin Kelley would have failed an FBI background check, possibly preventing him from purchasing the guns and body armor he used to murder churchgoers at the First Baptist Church in Southerland Springs, Texas in one of the nations deadliest mass shootings in history earlier this year. The Texas mass-shooting, like too many other acts of gun violence, was preventable, but the government failed to do the simple paperwork required to keep guns out of the hands of convicted criminals, Rep. Derek Kilmer said, Everyone I have talked to in our community wants to see guns kept out of the hands of dangerous convicted criminals. Background chec…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://reichert.house.gov/press-release/reichert-kilmer-call-defense-secretary-mattis-immediately-implement-inspector-general	Reichert, Kilmer Call on Defense Secretary Mattis to Immediately Implement Inspector Generals Recommendations to Comply with FBI Background Check Reporting Requirements	2017-12-27	2017	2017-12	Republican	House	WA	Dave Reichert	R000578	reichert.house.gov	legacy	Washington, DC Following the report earlier this month from the Department of Defenses Inspector General showing that the Military Services did not consistently submit convicted offenders fingerprint cards and final disposition reports to the FBIs Next Generation Identification Database, Representatives Dave Reichert (R-WA) and Derek Kilmer (D-WA) issued a letter asking the Secretary of Defense James Mattis to immediately implement the OIGs recommendations to prevent future reporting lapses. The bipartisan pair also requested an outline of the DODs plan to correct previous reporting errors. As a former Sheriff and law enforcement officer for 33 years, I know how important it is to keep guns out of the hands of those who seek to do harm, said Rep. Reichert. It is why we should do all we can to make sure our federal background check system is strong and effective, including ensuring relevant information is in the system. I am proud to join with Rep. Kilmer to urge the Department of Defense to quickly improve their background check reporting practices and to request specific information on how they plan to ensure no individual slips through the cracks. The Texas mass-shooting, like too many other acts of gun violence, was preventable, but the government failed to do the simple paperwork required to keep guns out of the hands of convicted criminals, Rep. Kilmer said, Everyone I have talked to in our community wants to see guns kept out of the hands of dangerous convicted criminals. Background checks are useless if the databases designed to prevent convicted violent criminals from getting guns arent up to date. Secretary Mattis shouldnt waste another second to implement the Inspector Generals recommendations which could prevent future tragedies. The OIG found that the militarys failure to report convictions and to deliver fingerprints to the FBI was systemic. The OIG has conducted regular investigations identifying this issue since 1997. This most recent report found 601 of the 2502 fingerprint cards that the DOD was …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns-and-op-eds/column-promise-kept-reducing-tax-burdens	COLUMN: Promise Kept on Reducing Tax Burdens	2017-12-25	2017	2017-12	Republican	House	WA	Dan Newhouse	N000189	newhouse.house.gov	legacy	For hard working families and entrepreneurs in Central Washington, keeping more of your own paycheck was my goal in supporting historic legislation approved by Congress, The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. The last time the nations federal tax system was overhauled was in 1986, under President Ronald Reagan. But with the leadership of President Trump and Republicans in the Senate and House, and with my support, we succeeded in pushing major tax reform for American families and businesses across the finish line. Reducing the rate for American corporations and small businesses has already begun to have a positive impact for workers. Instead of the 35 percent rate that sets the U.S. apart as one of the highest in the industrialized world, we succeeded in reducing the corporate rate to 21 percent so that American companies no longer face a disadvantage. After passage of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, companies such as AT&T, Comcast, and others announced rounds of Christmas bonuses and benefits for workers. A major employer in Washington State, Boeing, even announced $300 million dollars in employee-related and charitable investment as a direct result of the approval of tax reform. I hope to see even more companies step up and invest in workers and communities here at home. In the 4th Congressional District, 80 percent of filers file using the standard deduction. Our reform doubles the standard deduction from $6,350 to $12,000 and $12,000 to $24,000 for individuals and married couples, respectively. It also doubles the child tax credit, from $1,000 to $2,000, to help families with the cost of raising children. 88 percent of taxpayers in Washington who pay the individual mandate make $75,000 or less. The tax penalty of the Affordable Care Acts individual mandate is also eliminated by our reform. These changes alone will help the vast majority of families in Central Washington. Returning more of your own paycheck to you used to be a goal that crossed party lines. As difficult as it might be to remember considering todays sometim…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://herrerabeutler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=399092	Herrera Beutler: Tax bill will help all in S.W. Washington	2017-12-24	2017	2017-12	Republican	House	WA	Jaime Herrera Beutler	H001056	herrerabeutler.house.gov	legacy	Its been 10 years since the start of the Great Recession where so many Americans lost jobs, savings and even their homes. While Wall Streets economy may have improved, when I talk to people, I ask them whether they feel recovered. Do you make enough money to cover your bills? Is there enough left over to put in savings? Are there other jobs out there offering you better pay? Usually, the answer is not even close. share: f t Its been 10 years since the start of the Great Recession where so many Americans lost jobs, savings and even their homes. While Wall Streets economy may have improved, when I talk to people, I ask them whether they feel recovered. Do you make enough money to cover your bills? Is there enough left over to put in savings? Are there other jobs out there offering you better pay? Usually, the answer is not even close.Southwest Washington residents deserve a real economic recovery that leaves them with more money in their pockets, bigger paychecks and better job opportunities. Fortunately, Congress just passed a tax cut and jobs bill that will help. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act reforms the tax code to allow the average family of four in our region to keep $2,385 more of what they earn. People across all income levels will benefit from this tax relief. Additionally, independent economic entities like the Tax Foundation verify that reforming our broken, overly complex tax code will lead to more jobs and bigger paychecks. How? By empowering small businesses which create two out of every three new jobs in Southwest Washington to grow their operations. The tax bill lowers small-business taxes, specifically incentivizing them to invest in new equipment and skills training. For instance, craft breweries will have their excise tax cut in half. Businesses that make and keep more profits usually expand, and require more workers to help. Corporate tax reform will help, too. This is hardly a conservative Republican idea; Presidents Clinton and Obama reg…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://adamsmith.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/smith-statement-on-house-passage-of-the-continuing-resolution	Smith Statement on House Passage of the Continuing Resolution	2017-12-22	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Adam Smith	S000510	adamsmith.house.gov	legacy	The Republicans just reneged on their responsibility to properly fund the federal government because they were too busy giving away a $1.5 trillion dollar tax cut to corporations and the wealthy. By falling back on another short-term continuing resolution, almost a quarter of year past the due date for proper appropriations bills, they have clearly demonstrated that they are not willing to do their job. Their lack of action will directly and negatively affect the people who reside in the Ninth Congressional District and across the country. House Republicans cannot continue to punt their responsibilities.We must do the job that we have been elected to do; particularly enacting a comprehensive budget that fairly funds important priorities, such as education, job growth, protection of the environment, and our national security.We also need to bring up the legislation necessary to ensure DREAMers can remain at home in this country, and not live in fear of their families being pulled apart. Inaction on these vital issues is unacceptable.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://adamsmith.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/statement-from-congressman-smith-on-passage-of-hr-1	Statement from Congressman Smith on Passage of H.R. 1	2017-12-22	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Adam Smith	S000510	adamsmith.house.gov	legacy	The Republicans final tax bill affirmed my opposition to this dangerous proposal. Todays vote increased the deficit by a staggering $1.5 trillion, which overwhelmingly benefits the rich and corporations at a time when we are running historic deficits and wealth is concentrated at the top. This bill was so partisan and poorly constructed, and the process so lacking, that Senate parliamentary rules required provisions to be dropped at the last minute, which required the House to vote on the bill twice. This measure endangers Medicare and other mandatory programs, leaving them susceptible to drastic cuts that will hurt ordinary Americans. It will throw our health care system into chaos and even harms our environment by opening up the Alaska National Wildlife Refuge up for oil drilling. This bill set our government on an extremely irresponsible path and its negative effects will be felt by generations to come.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://jayapal.house.gov/media/press-releases/jayapal-introduces-bipartisan-resolution-honor-seattle-s-baseball-legend-edgar	Jayapal Introduces Bipartisan Resolution to Honor Seattles Baseball Legend Edgar Martinez	2017-12-22	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Pramila Jayapal	J000298	jayapal.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal, joined by 35 members of Congress including Representatives Nydia Velzquez (D-NY), Jenniffer Gonzlez-Coln (R-PR), Washington states Adam Smith (D-WA), Rick Larsen (D-WA), Suzan DelBene (D-WA), Denny Heck (D-WA) and Derek Kilmer (D-WA) introduced a resolution honoring the Seattle Mariners' Edgar Martinez for his outstanding career as a professional baseball player and for his noteworthy humanitarian and philanthropic efforts. For all the ways that Edgar has given back to our Seattle community, as well as our global community, it is an honor to recognize him. He shows, in no uncertain terms, that commitment and compassionon and off the fieldcan change lives for the better, said Rep. Jayapal. From his fellowship program that benefits teachers and students to his funding of muscular dystrophy research, Edgar goes to bat for our community time and again. Thank you, Edgar, for all you do. As a member of our organization for more than 25 years, we know firsthand that Edgar is both a Hall of Fame person, and a Hall of Fame player, said Kevin Mather, Seattle Mariners President & Chief Executive Officer. We thank Congresswoman Jayapal for sponsoring House Resolution 672 honoring Edgar Martinez for his excellence as a player, and for his substantial philanthropic efforts to make the Northwest a better community for all. Time and again, Edgar has shown up for his team and his community. Not only is he a beloved figure in the Pacific Northwest, but also a celebrated son of Puerto Rico. Edgars character and service makes us all proud. It is my honor to join my colleagues today in recognizing his great career and contributions, said Rep. Nydia Velzquez. Martinez represents the best of the game of Baseball through his extraordinary character, community involvement, positive contributions, both on and off the field. This Puerto Rican baseball player exemplifies discipline and determination, and in addition to being a source of pride for all Puerto Ricans, examples our youth bec…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/kilmer-statement-on-congresss-decision-to-kick-the-can-on-long-term-spending-plan	Kilmer Statement on Congress’s Decision to Kick the Can on Long-term Spending Plan	2017-12-21	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Derek Kilmer	K000381	kilmer.house.gov	legacy	12.21.17 Kilmer Statement on Congresss Decision to Kick the Can on Long-term Spending Plan I am disappointed that rather than using these last few weeks to do their jobs and produce a long-term, bipartisan spending plan, the majority of Congress has decided to once again kick the can down the road. I remain committed to working with the members of both parties to pass a long-term, bipartisan spending plan. Congress has punted from September to early-December, then to mid-December and now to January. No household would run their family finances three weeks at a time. No business would either. These manufactured crises are certainly no way to run the government either. Thats why I supported measures like No Budget No Pay, which would mean Congress wouldnt be paid if the government is shutdown. In January, Congress should get serious and pass a long-term, bipartisan deal. Thats overdue. Doing so would mean government agencies and the federal workforce has the assurances needed to make long-term plans, which saves taxpayer money, allows the military to maintain readiness, and prevents Americans from having the government services on which they rely held hostage by partisan politics. Previous Article	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://delbene.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2243	DelBene: Its Past Time Congress End Government Uncertainty	2017-12-21	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Suzan DelBene	D000617	delbene.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (WA-01) released the following statement after Congress passed yet another short-term continuing resolution to fund the federal government: Today, Congress passed another temporary funding bill, and once again kicked the can down the road, needlessly manufacturing another potential crisis early next year, DelBene said. As a former CEO, I know firsthand you cant efficiently run a business for just weeks or months at a time, and the same is true for the government. Its long past time for Republican leadership, who now control every branch of government, to put an end to this inefficient cycle and broken governance. Its ludicrous that we waste so much time punting on these funding bills and leave American families and businesses with uncertainty, rather than getting the job done and moving on to issues important to Americans long-term success, like housing, education, infrastructure, healthcare and innovative research. Congress needed to act by Dec. 22, after continuously kicking the can down the road instead of passing a budget and appropriations bills through regular order before the end of the fiscal year. The government is now funded through Jan. 19. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://herrerabeutler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=399091	Jaime Herrera Beutler Votes to Extend Funding for Vital Childrens Health Insurance Program	2017-12-21	2017	2017-12	Republican	House	WA	Jaime Herrera Beutler	H001056	herrerabeutler.house.gov	legacy	U.S. Representative Jaime Herrera Beutler voted to extend funding for the Childrens Health Insurance Program (CHIP), a provision that was included in a stopgap spending bill the U.S. House passed today. The funding provides $2.8 billion for CHIP to operate through the end of March so every state, including Washington, can continue to provide vital care to low-income children without disruption. share: f t U.S. Representative Jaime Herrera Beutler voted to extend funding for the Childrens Health Insurance Program (CHIP), a provision that was included in a stopgap spending bill the U.S. House passed today. The funding provides $2.8 billion for CHIP to operate through the end of March so every state, including Washington, can continue to provide vital care to low-income children without disruption. Last month, Jaime voted in support of a bill that passed the U.S. House to reauthorize CHIP funding for five years, but that bill stalled in the U.S. Senate. The short-term spending bill the House passed today will now head to the Senate for a vote. While I fought to include a longer-term fix for the Childrens Health Insurance Program similar to the five-year extension I helped the U.S. House pass in November, the three-month funding patch I supported today will ensure the health care of nine million vulnerable children who rely on CHIP doesnt lapse, said Jaime. Providing quality care for low-income children has always been a top priority of mine and I wont let up in my efforts to extend CHIP long-term so that their health isnt jeopardized. This spending bill also extends funding for Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHC) and Community Health Centers, such as the Cowlitz Family Health Center, Valley View Health Centers, and SeaMar Clinicsthrough March. Background: FQHC are community-based health care providers that provide vital primary care services in underserved areas.They offer low-cost health care options to individuals who are uninsured, on Medica…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://jayapal.house.gov/media/press-releases/jayapal-bustos-commend-microsoft-eliminating-forced-arbitration-agreements-its	Jayapal & Bustos Commend Microsoft for Eliminating Forced Arbitration Agreements with Its Employees	2017-12-21	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Pramila Jayapal	J000298	jayapal.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. Congresswomen Pramila Jayapal and Cheri Bustos commended Microsoft for announcing they would be eliminating forced arbitration agreements with employees who make sexual harassment claims. Earlier this month, Jayapal (D-WA) and Bustos (D-IL) were joined by Reps. Walter Jones (R-NC) and Elise Stefanik (R-NY), as well as Sens. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) and Lindsey Graham (R-SC), as they introduced the Ending Forced Arbitration of Sexual Harassment Act of 2017 that would void forced arbitration agreements that prevent sexual harassment survivors from getting the justice they deserve. I am proud to see Microsoft proactively step up to the plate, show leadership on the issue of sexual harassment and eliminate mandatory arbitration agreements with their employees in cases of sexual harassment. I hope other companies who want to be leaders in creating safe workplaces for all employees will follow suit. Forced arbitration silences victims, limits opportunity, protects powerful men and breaks the leadership ladders that we work so hard to build. Sexual harassment has no regard to party or industryit affects all of us, everywhere, said Rep. Jayapal. Our legislation takes the first steps toward changing a deep-seated culture of sexism and silencing in the private sector. The bravery of the victims who have come forward cannot go unnoticed. For them, and for all people who experience harassment, we must act on this moment and end the forced arbitration process for good. Systemic sexual harassment can only exist in secrecy which is why I wrote legislation to stamp out this abusive behavior in the workplace, said Rep. Bustos. I want to commend Microsoft for leading by example and taking steps to ensure a safer workplace by exempting their workers from forced arbitration in sexual harassment cases. Our strategy to end sexual harassment in the workplace goes well beyond Washington D.C. and I want to thank Congresswoman Jayapal for helping lead this effort. I'm proud of the growing coalition of bipartisan legisla…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://jayapal.house.gov/media/press-releases/jayapal-statement-passage-gop-continuing-resolution	Jayapal Statement on Passage of the GOP Continuing Resolution	2017-12-21	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Pramila Jayapal	J000298	jayapal.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal released the following statement in response to House passage of the continuing resolution that funds the government through January 19: Its shameful to see House Republicans skip town to enjoy the holidays after voting for the continued suffering of millions of young people and children. They have the majority, their votes overrule ours, and their choice today was cruel and immoral. House Republicans spent all their time focused on passing a tax scam that gives cuts to the wealthiest and no time working to pass a budget that addresses the priority programs on which middle class families rely. The GOP has shown they side with the biggest corporations and the wealthiest instead of the 9 million kids who need CHIP authorized, the 1.5 million Dreamers who need a Dream Act now, or the millions of people who will lose health insurance because of Republican-forced destabilization of the health care market. We need to fully re-authorize CHIP funding and pass the bipartisan Dream Act this bill does not do that. Republicans are kicking the can down the road for another month with this continuing resolution without addressing any of the real priorities. I voted no to this irresponsible governing.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://larsen.house.gov/press-release/larsen-statement-short-term-continuing-resolution	Larsen Statement on Short-Term Continuing Resolution	2017-12-21	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Rick Larsen	L000560	larsen.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. Rep. Rick Larsen (WA-02) today released the following statement after voting against the short-term 2018 Continuing Resolution in the U.S. House of Representatives: There is a Scrooge every holiday season and this year its Congressional Republicans. The best holiday gift Congress could give hardworking families is knowing their children will still have health insurance. However, Congressional Republicans chose to prioritize a greedy tax bill that favors corporations and the wealthiest Americans instead of the Children Healths Insurance Program (CHIP). It is inexcusable that Congress continues to delay reauthorizing of CHIP, which over 5,700 children in Washington states Second Congressional District depend on for comprehensive, high-quality health care. For years, the states Apple Health for Kids program has provided hardworking families in the Pacific Northwest with access to affordable health coverage to ensure that children can learn, grow and thrive. Washingtonians deserve a better deal. Congress needs to get serious and start working to reach a budget compromise that both sides can agree on, not continue to fund the government two weeks at a time while vital safety-net programs lay in wait for crucial resources. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://reichert.house.gov/press-release/reichert-house-vote-keep-government-open	Reichert, House Vote to Keep Government Open	2017-12-21	2017	2017-12	Republican	House	WA	Dave Reichert	R000578	reichert.house.gov	legacy	Washington, DC - Today, the House passed a continuing resolution (H.R. 1370) to extend funding to keep critical government programs fully operational through January 19, 2018 and avert a government shutdown. Today, I voted to keep the government open as Congress continues to craft a long-term solution to government spending, said Rep. Reichert. While this discussion is vitally important, it must not come at the expense of critical programs that provide for our national defense, veterans, children, and Americans across the country. In particular, as Co-Chair of the Childrens Health Care Caucus, I am pleased that we provided additional funding for the Childrens Health Insurance Program (CHIP) and Community Health Centers. We cannot allow a shutdown of programs on which so many rely while we determine a longer-path forward. Todays bill includes funding for all government programs through January 19, 2018 in addition to supplemental funds for missile defense and vital Navy ship repairs. In addition, the bill provides additional funding for the Childrens Health Insurance Program (CHIP) and Community Health Centers through March 31, 2018. The bill also extends Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) authorities to January 19thand provides additional funding for the Veterans Choice Program. Importantly, the bill includes a waiver to the Pay-Go requirements for the tax bill that passed Congress. This means the Pay-Go rules automatic spending cuts will not occur.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-calls-for-oversight-hearing-on-amtrak-rail-safety-in-aftermath-of-recent-derailment-tragedy	Cantwell Calls for Oversight Hearing on Amtrak, Rail Safety in Aftermath of Recent Derailment Tragedy	2017-12-21	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Maria Cantwell	C000127	www.cantwell.senate.gov	legacy	12.21.17 Cantwell Calls for Oversight Hearing on Amtrak, Rail Safety in Aftermath of Recent Derailment Tragedy WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) called on Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee Chairman John Thune (R-SD) and Ranking Member Bill Nelson (D-FL) to hold an oversight hearing to examine a range of Amtrak safety concerns tragically brought to light earlier this week with the derailment of an Amtrak commuter train in DuPont, Washington. In her letter, Cantwell, a senior member of the Commerce Committee, wrote that Amtraks safety practices and training procedures, as well as Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) safety regulations, must be scrutinized immediately to protect the travelling public. In all, 91 people have lost their lives and 2,842 have been injured in derailments, collisions, and similar incidents since 2008, according to the FRA. A copy of the letter can be found below and here. The Honorable John Thune Chair U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation 512 Dirksen Senate Building Washington, DC 20510 The Honorable Bill Nelson Ranking Member U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation 425 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, DC 20510 Dear Chairman Thune and Ranking Member Nelson, I am writing to request that the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation hold an oversight hearing on current Amtrak safety standards and training procedures, and the state of federal rail safety regulation as soon as possible when Congress returns in the new year. Following the recent derailment incident in DuPont, Washington, which claimed 3 lives and injured more than 70 people, the traveling public needs to know that Amtrak and its regulator, the Federal Railroad Administration, are doing all they can to protect the safety of passengers who use this vital piece of our transportation infrastructure. In the last decade alone, train accidents in the United States have taken …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/sens-cantwell-murray-wyden-merkley-demand-dot-hold-railroads-accountable-for-ptc-implementation-after-fatal-derailments-safety-shortfalls	Sens. Cantwell, Murray, Wyden, Merkley Demand DOT Hold Railroads Accountable for PTC Implementation after Fatal Derailments, Safety Shortfalls	2017-12-21	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Maria Cantwell	C000127	www.cantwell.senate.gov	legacy	12.21.17 Sens. Cantwell, Murray, Wyden, Merkley Demand DOT Hold Railroads Accountable for PTC Implementation after Fatal Derailments, Safety Shortfalls WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, Patty Murray (D-WA), Ron Wyden (D-OR), and Jeff Merkley (D-OR) joined a group of fifteen total senators calling on Secretary of Transportation Elaine Chao to hold railroads accountable for failing to implement sufficient safety measures. The Senators demanded a status report on railroads implementation of positive train control (PTC), a lifesaving technology required by Congressional mandate to be fully implemented by 2018. The Senators letter comes four days after the tragic Amtrak train derailment near DuPont, Washington, which resulted in three fatalities and injured many dozens more. This accident is the latest in a troubling trend of fatal train derailments and collisions. Since NTSB first recommended PTC, more than 300 people have died, thousands have been injured, and millions of dollars in property damages have been incurred, wrote the Senators. The PTC deadline is now almost one year away December 31, 2018. It is imperative that railroads complete implementation before the deadline. They must clearly understand that the consequences of failure will be stringent and prompt. Senators Cantwell, Murray, Wyden, and Merkley were joined by U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Bill Nelson (D-FL), Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Bob Casey (D-PA), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Bob Menendez (D-NJ), Kamala Harris (D-CA), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) in the letter to Chao. The full text of the Senators letter to Chao is available for download here, and copied below. Dear Secretary Chao: On Monday, an Amtrak train derailed onto a busy interstate highway in DuPont, Washington. This tragedy reminds us of the urgent need to improve rail safety…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=1AA619D9-EFA2-41EA-AD23-CD01E476E4BF	Sens. Murray, Cantwell, Wyden, Merkley Demand DOT Hold Railroads Accountable for PTC Implementation after Fatal Derailments, Safety Shortfalls	2017-12-21	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Patty Murray	M001111	www.murray.senate.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, Ron Wyden (D-OR), and Jeff Merkley (D-OR) joined a group of fifteen total senators calling on Secretary of Transportation Elaine Chao to hold railroads accountable for failing to implement sufficient safety measures. The Senators demanded a status report on railroads implementation of positive train control (PTC), a lifesaving technology required by Congressional mandate to be fully implemented by 2018. The Senators letter comes four days after the tragic Amtrak train derailment near DuPont, Washington, which resulted in three fatalities and injured many dozens more. This accident is the latest in a troubling trend of fatal train derailments and collisions. Since NTSB first recommended PTC, more than 300 people have died, thousands have been injured, and millions of dollars in property damages have been incurred, wrote the Senators. The PTC deadline is now almost one year away December 31, 2018. It is imperative that railroads complete implementation before the deadline. They must clearly understand that the consequences of failure will be stringent and prompt. Senators Cantwell, Murray, Wyden, and Merkley were joined by U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Bill Nelson (D-FL), Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Bob Casey (D-PA), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Bob Menendez (D-NJ), Kamala Harris (D-CA), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) in the letter to Chao. The full text of the Senators letter to Chao is available for download here, and copied below. Dear Secretary Chao: On Monday, an Amtrak train derailed onto a busy interstate highway in DuPont, Washington. This tragedy reminds us of the urgent need to improve rail safety, including the nationwide implementation of positive train control (PTC) technology, as mandated by Congress. We write requesting an update on the status of railroads compliance wi…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=50A01077-D0A2-4DAC-ACC6-E4D6EC6FA68B	Senator Murray Votes No on Short-Term Spending Bill: Families Deserve Better	2017-12-21	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Patty Murray	M001111	www.murray.senate.gov	legacy	After spending most of year either trying to take families health care away, or jamming through tax cuts for the wealthy, Republicans punt spending bill into 2018 without addressing critical issues Senator Murray calls on Republicans to pass DREAM Act, permanently fund CHIP, community health center and special diabetes programs without any further delay in the new year (Washington, D.C.) Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) released the following statement after voting no on a short-term continuing resolution to punt a spending deal into mid-January. I voted no because I want to be crystal clear: families deserve better. The Republican-led Congress used the vast majority of the year trying to take away health care from millions of Americans and jamming through tax cuts for the rich, while leaving middle class priorities on the backburner. Now, Republicans are leaving people nationwide uncertain about everything from whether they can stay in the only country theyve ever known as home, to whether their children will have health care in a few months. This is no way to govern. Right now, nearly 800,000 young men and womens futures are in limboand they have already waited for far too long for Republican leadership to let us vote on a legislative fix for the DACA program and clean up this Trump-inflicted mess. Parents across the country are reading headlines about their childrens health care being cut off, and theyre desperately asking this Republican-controlled Congress to do the right thing. So are people who rely on community health centers and other sources of affordable primary care where funding is drying up because of inaction here in Washington, D.C. And I am deeply concerned about the impact severe, misguided cuts to public health and prevention included in this stopgap bill will have as we work to tackle crises like the opioid epidemic. This is no way to run the government and no way to treat people who are looking to Congress for solutions, not dysfunction and uncertainty, and I plan on doing every…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=6213B739-3505-483A-956D-BD7627A90D70	VIDEO: Senator Murray Blasts Republicans for Putting Special Interests, Corporations Ahead of Middle Class Families in 2017	2017-12-21	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Patty Murray	M001111	www.murray.senate.gov	legacy	Working against popular opinion, Republicans ended the year without renewing critical funding for CHIP & CHC/THCs, permanent solution for DACA recipients were headed into 2018 ready to fight back harder than ever against the backward policies and even more backwards priorities this Republican-controlled Congress is forcing on families and communities *WATCH VIDEO OF SENATOR MURRAYS REMARKS HERE* (Washington, D.C.) Joined by fellow Senate Democratic leaders at an end-of-year news conference, today U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) criticized Senate Republicans for their lack of action before the end of the year on several legislative priorities that would provide critical support to middle class families in Washington state and nationwide, and highlighted a number of ways Republicans have hurt women, workers, retirees, and students by rolling back rules intended to put them firstchoosing instead to prioritize massive corporations and special interests. Republicans have wasted months failing to pass their disastrous Trumpcare bill and rushing to jam through their unpopular tax plan instead of taking up several policies aimed at helping working families, like renewing funding for community health center and special diabetes programs and the Childrens Health Insurance Program, or finding a permanent legislative fix for the Deferred Action for Childhood arrivals program, known as DACA. Additionally, Republicans undertook several actions over the last year that weaken protections for middle class families, including eliminating rules for worker safety, undermining womens access to reproductive health care, taking away retirement savings options, and undermining guardrails intended to ensure all children receive a quality education, no matter who they are or how much money their parents make. In her remarks, Senator Murray blasted Republicans for wasting the past year championing legislation that primarily benefits the wealthiest corporations and richest Americans, and refusing to work across the aisle to a…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=D2132A42-53A8-4FA5-88FD-83C3F344603C	Senator Murray on DREAM Act: We will get this done. We have to get this done.	2017-12-21	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Patty Murray	M001111	www.murray.senate.gov	legacy	In speech on Senate floor, Senator Murray implores Republican colleagues to follow through on promise to fix DACA, uphold commitment to find permanent solution for DACA recipients & Dreamers Senator Murray: Congress may not be able to change the Trump Administrations hateful rhetoric or short-sighted policies overnight, but we can and should pass the DREAM Act as soon as possible In earlier year-end news conference with Senate Democratic leaders, Senator Murray also blasts Republicans for leaving unfinished business on critical issues like DREAM Act, CHIP and CHCs that will impact hundreds of thousands in Washington state, nationwide LINK ICYMI: Sens. Murray, Cantwell, Democratic Women Senators to McConnell: Pass the DREAM Act Before Senate Recesses in December Spokesman-Review Editorial: Foot-dragging on DACA is cruel *WATCH VIDEO OF SENATOR MURRAYS FLOOR SPEECH HERE* (Washington, D.C.) Today U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) strongly urged her Republican colleagues to finally pass the DREAM Act and uphold Congress promise to find a permanent solution for hundreds of thousands of young people enrolled in the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, known as DACA. President Trump and Attorney General Sessions rescinded the program last September, impacting an estimated 800,000 young men and women, including nearly 17,000 in Washington state. In her speech, Senator Murray shared stories from young Washingtonians enrolled in DACA, underscoring the fear and confusion President Trumps reckless decision has posed on their lives, families, and futures, and stressed the urgent need to pass the DREAM Act to alleviate their uncertainty. Senator Murray also highlighted the moral and economic costs of not honoring the commitment made to young people who signed up for DACA, and underlined the immeasurable value recipients of DACA contribute to their communities in Washington state and nationwide. Excerpts from Senator Murrays floor speech: From health care to tax reform, theres no doubt that some days…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://herrerabeutler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=399090	Pacific County deserves better healthcare options	2017-12-20	2017	2017-12	Republican	House	WA	Jaime Herrera Beutler	H001056	herrerabeutler.house.gov	legacy	Beginning Jan. 1, residents of Southern Pacific County enrolled in Premera health insurance plans will face a healthcare crisis. share: f t Beginning Jan. 1, residents of Southern Pacific County enrolled in Premera health insurance plans will face a healthcare crisis. In 2018, residents here will no longer have access to essential health care services in nearby Oregon towns. Instead, if youre a Premera customer in Ilwaco, youll face a 67-mile one-way drive into Longview to see a cardiologist; a 70-mile drive to Aberdeen for a pediatrician or to deliver a baby; or that same 70 miles to see a psychologist. These plans are wholly inadequate to offer people the health services they need, yet they were approved by Washingtons insurance commissioner. Its well established that even when individuals have insurance, geographic barriers prevent folks from receiving potentially lifesaving healthcare. For individuals with a limited income, children, a job, or a disability, a 90-minute trip just to reach an appointment may force them to postpone a cervical cancer screening, avoid regular mental health treatment, or skip a diabetes checkup. With winter approaching, those trips become even more difficult. How did we get here? Unfortunately, under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) rural residents have seen healthcare options dwindle while premiums and costs continue to climb. The looming crisis for Premera customers in Pacific County began when Premera filed its plans and the restricted networks they now offer with Insurance Commissioner Mike Kreidlers office in the spring of 2016. Staunch defenders of the ACA often point to the election of President Trump or congressional efforts to replace the law as the causes but these explanations dont reflect the facts. When Premera filed these plans, the 2016 presidential campaign was still under way, and President Obama was still in office vetoing any attempt to alter the ACA. And the crisis continues to play out throughout r…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://larsen.house.gov/press-release/larsen-applauds-passage-750-million-grants-programs-assist-firefighters-and-emergency	Larsen Applauds Passage of $750 Million Grants Programs to Assist Firefighters and Emergency First Responders	2017-12-20	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Rick Larsen	L000560	larsen.house.gov	legacy	Larsen Applauds Passage of $750 Million Grants Programs to Assist Firefighters and Emergency First Responders Dec 20, 2017 WASHINGTON, D.C. Rep. Rick Larsen (WA-02) released the following statement after the House of Representatives passed the United States Fire Administration, AFG, and SAFER Program Reauthorization Act of 2017 (H.R. 4661). The bill authorizes $750 million for both the Assistance to Firefights Grant (AFG) awards and Staffing for Adequate Fire & Emergency Response (SAFER) programs. These grant programs help provide training and equipment to firefighters and emergency first responders. In the past two years, nine local fire departments in Washingtons Second Congressional District have received funding under these programs. SAFER and AFG provide firefighters and emergency responders the tools needed to save lives in our community, said Larsen. I will continue to work for local first responders by supporting these programs and I thank all first responders and fire fighters for putting your own lives on the line every day for others. The bill passed the House of Representatives by voice vote yesterday. Larsen signed a letter of support for the AFG and SAFER Program Reauthorization Act earlier this month. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-cantwell-murray-and-representatives-kilmer-heck-announce-critical-investments-in-puget-sound-recovery	Senators Cantwell, Murray and Representatives Kilmer, Heck Announce Critical Investments in Puget Sound Recovery	2017-12-20	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Maria Cantwell	C000127	www.cantwell.senate.gov	legacy	12.20.17 Senators Cantwell, Murray and Representatives Kilmer, Heck Announce Critical Investments in Puget Sound Recovery (Washington, D.C.) Today, Senators Patty Murray (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Maria Cantwell (D-WA), top Democrat on the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, and Representatives Derek Kilmer (D-WA) and Denny Heck (D-WA) announced new federal investments totaling $25.2 million to support the continued cleanup and restoration of the Puget Sound. Originally appropriated by Congress in last years budget, the grants were awarded through the Environmental Protection Agencys National Estuary Program and will fund state, local and tribal Puget Sound recovery and conservation efforts. Puget Sound is one of the Pacific Northwests most cherished cultural and environmental treasures, and this announcement is great news for Washington state families who benefit from the important role it plays in our states economy and ecology, said Senator Murray. Strong federal investments in the Sounds recovery and cleanup will help ensure that our local communities continue to reap Puget Sounds rich benefits for generations to come, and as a voice for Washington state I will continue fighting back against the Trump Administrations attempts to eliminate funding for this and other critical Puget Sound efforts. Investments like these lead to a cleaner Puget Sound and healthy fisheries that sustain jobs in our tourism and fishing sectors, said Representative Kilmer. As co-chairman of the Puget Sound Recovery Caucus, Im working to protect Puget Sound and enhance the vital role it plays in our regions culture and economy. All of us who are privileged to live in Washington state understand the fundamental importance of a healthy Puget Sound to our way of life. Orca and salmon call Puget Sound home, and are iconic figures of the Pacific Northwest, said Representative Heck. Federal investments like EPAs National Estuary Program, in partnership with our…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=16762098-09D9-4203-9FEF-58280FA82BDF	Senator Murrays Statement on Passage of GOP Tax Cuts for the Rich: Its hard to overstate the cruelty of the Trump-Republican bill	2017-12-20	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Patty Murray	M001111	www.murray.senate.gov	legacy	(Washington, D.C.) Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), one of seven Senate Democrats named to the conference committee, released the following statement after Republicans jammed through tax cuts that benefit the wealthiest Americans and biggest corporations on a party-line vote. From the very start, President Trump and Republicans shut out Democrats, nonpartisan experts, and the vast majority of Americans because they knew this legislation would never survive the light of day. The result of their closed-door negotiations is a terribly partisan bill that funnels even more money to those at the very top, at the expense of hardworking families and future generations. From the millions of Americans who will lose health coverage or see their premiums go up, to the middle class families who will see their tax bill increase in the coming years, to the pristine region of Alaska that will open to drilling, its hard to overstate the cruelty of the Trump-Republican bill. Its also hard to overstate the hypocrisy of so-called fiscal conservatives who apparently didnt think twice about blowing a massive hole in our deficit and endangering Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid--- all so they could dole out more tax cuts to the ultra-wealthy and the Trump family. While I am deeply disappointed President Trump and Republicans succeeded in jamming their destructive bill through without real hearings, true openness to amendments, bipartisan inputor allowing the Senator-elect from Alabama to cast a vote-- I am extremely proud of the millions of people from every corner of this country who made their voices heard and who did everything they could to highlight the gross inequities of the GOP tax bill. I want the American people to know this fight is not over. I urge everyone to join me in continuing to hold Republicans accountable for their votesand to work with Democrats to reverse the pieces of this legislation that so heavily tip the scales to the wealthiest in the country.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=9AF80BA5-7889-4776-B43D-86BBD00A85DE	Senator Murray Statement on Republican Plans to Postpone Action on Alexander-Murray Health Bill Through End of Year	2017-12-20	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Patty Murray	M001111	www.murray.senate.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), top Democrat on the Senate health committee, issued the following statement on Republican plans to postpone action on the bipartisan Alexander-Murray bill through the end of the year. Republicans have just severely sabotaged families health care to give tax cuts to massive corporations and the wealthiest, and they are fully responsible for the premium increases and coverage loss that will come as a result. As I have made clear, the bipartisan bill I originally agreed on with Chairman Alexander will not make up for this latest round of Republican health care sabotage. In fact, there are changes that now need to be made to ensure it meets its intended goals of keeping premiums down and stabilizing markets. Republicans cannot undo the damage theyve caused to the health care system or to patients and families who will be paying more or losing coverage, but they can avoid doing further harmand I am hoping they are truly serious about working with us to get this done.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/kilmer-votes-against-tax-bill-that-raises-middle-class-taxes-adds-trillions-to-debt	Kilmer Votes Against Tax Bill That Raises Middle Class Taxes, Adds Trillions to Debt	2017-12-19	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Derek Kilmer	K000381	kilmer.house.gov	legacy	12.19.17 Kilmer Votes Against Tax Bill That Raises Middle Class Taxes, Adds Trillions to Debt WASHINGTON, DC Today, Representative Derek Kilmer (D-WA) voted against the Republican tax plan. According to nonpartisan analyses, the final version of the bill would raise taxes on 86 million middle-class families and add more than $1.5 trillion to the debt. Of the tax cuts in the plan, 83 percent would go to the wealthiest 1 percent of the country. Todays vote is an enormous missed opportunity. Done right, tax reform could help grow our economy, give small businesses a boost, and make it easier for middle class families to get ahead, Rep. Derek Kilmer said. Instead, this bill raises taxes on 86 million middle-class families while giving 83 percent of the tax cuts to the wealthiest one percent and adding more than $1.5 trillion to the debt that our kids will have to pay off. From the start of the process, Kilmer offered to work with Republicans on a bipartisan plan. Earlier this year, he and members of the New Democrat Coalition met with Rep. Kevin Brady, the Chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee, which drafts tax policy, and offered to work on bipartisan tax reform. The group offered an alternative tax plan that would have drawn bipartisan support. Kilmer outlined the plan in an op-ed in The News Tribune earlier this week. The final version of the bill, which would alter the nations economy for decades, was issued just four days before a vote. Critics of the bill raised concerns that special interests added last minute loopholes including a Real Estate Tax Break designed specifically to give massive tax breaks to wealthy real estate owners. Another loophole could actually end up sending more jobs overseas. Nonpartisan analyses demonstrate that the bill would add more than $1.5 Trillion to the national debt over the next decade. That would trigger automatic cuts to things that help everyday Americans from seniors to farmers. For example, next year alone Medicare, the health insurance program for eld…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://delbene.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2241	DelBene Opposes Massive Tax Giveaway to Corporate Special Interests at the Expense of Middle-Class Families	2017-12-19	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Suzan DelBene	D000617	delbene.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (WA-01), who serves on the House Ways and Means Committee, opposed the Ryan-McConnell tax bill today on the House floor because it will increase taxes on millions of middle-class families. House Republicans still passed the bill without a single Democrat supporting the measure it now heads to the Senate for further action. In this Ryan-McConnell tax bill, Republicans have gifted the wealthiest corporations and individuals with massive new tax cuts and loopholes to take advantage of, DelBene said. Not a mother working two jobs to put food on the table, not a farmer struggling through a bad year, not a senior trying to pay for a prescription, have ever told me that tax reform means corporate cuts on the backs of them and their families. Republicans always promise that the benefits will trickle down to working people, but they never do and they never will. And whats worse, theyve made it clear cuts to Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid are next. Instead of bringing Democrats and the public into the process, Republicans worked behind closed doors to take care of their corporate special interest allies, the wealthy and the well-connected, while putting middle-class Americans finances and healthcare on the chopping block. Video of her speaking on the House floor before the vote can be found HERE. The Republican bill would add at least $1.5 trillion to the deficit, paid for on the backs of workers, seniors and future generations. It would also result in 13 million Americans losing their healthcare coverage and will allow oil drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. During committee markup, DelBene offered amendments to protect middle-class families from tax hikes that would make housing and healthcare among other things more costly, but Republicans blocked them all. Her questioning on the unfairness of corporations being able to continue to use deductions eliminated for individuals under the plan went viral. The House Ways and Means Committee passed the Re…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://delbene.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2242	DelBene Leads Bipartisan Letter Urging $2 Billion Boost for NIH	2017-12-19	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Suzan DelBene	D000617	delbene.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (WA-01) led 129 House members in urging the House Appropriations Committee to fund the National Institutes of Health (NIH) at no less than $36 billion in any forthcoming appropriations legislation. The bipartisan letter was co-led by Reps. David McKinley (WV-01) and Peter King (NY-02). Funding helps push the boundaries of scientific knowledge, advance promising research and offer hope to millions of Americans suffering from heartbreaking diseases, the members wrote. If we are serious about breaking new ground in our understanding of complex and life-threatening conditions, then it is absolutely essential we increase funding for NIH. Simply put, we cannot hope to accelerate the development of new cures, therapies and vaccines without additional resources for research. Both the House and Senate Appropriations Committees have approved funding increases for NIH in fiscal year 2018. The House bill (H.R.3358) allocates $35.1 billion for NIH, while the Senate bill (S.1771) provides $36 billion for the agency a $2 billion increase above FY 2017 levels. Neither bill has received a vote on the House floor. Federal funding for NIH supports more than 400,000 American jobs and generates more than $60 billion in new economic activity. Unfortunately, the federal governments contributions toward basic research at NIH have consistently failed to keep pace with inflation, allowing the agencys purchasing power to diminish by nearly 20 percent since 2003. The letter is signed by 130 Republican and Democratic members of the House. Full text of the letter follows: Dear Chairman Frelinghuysen and Ranking Member Lowey: As the House works to craft an end of year spending bill for fiscal year 2018, we write to express our strong support for increasing funding for the National Institutes of Health (NIH). In any forthcoming appropriations legislation for FY 2018, we urge you to work with your Senate colleagues to ensure NIH receives a funding level of no less than $36 billion, equa…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://herrerabeutler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=399088	Jaime Herrera Beutler Supports Tax Cuts for Middle-Income Southwest Washington Families; Boost to Economy, Paychecks, Jobs	2017-12-19	2017	2017-12	Republican	House	WA	Jaime Herrera Beutler	H001056	herrerabeutler.house.gov	legacy	Today, U.S. Representative Jaime Herrera Beutler supported the final tax cut bill expected to be signed into law this week that will allow Southwest Washington residents to keep more of their money and earn bigger paychecks. share: f t Today, U.S. Representative Jaime Herrera Beutler supported the final tax cut bill expected to be signed into law this week that will allow Southwest Washington residents to keep more of their money and earn bigger paychecks. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act approved by the U.S. House today represents a compromise between the U.S. House- and Senate-passed tax cut bills.The U.S. Senate is expected to pass the bill this evening and send it to the Presidents desk. Once this tax cut bill is signed into law, the average Southwest Washington family of four will keep $2,385 more of what they earn, said Jaime. The bill we passed today improves on the earlier version I voted for in several measurable ways for folks in all phases of life from those preparing to begin their careers, to those in retirement. It protects virtually every middle-class homeowner by raising the mortgage interest deduction to $750,000, it expands vital relief for those families with high medical expenses, it doubles the child tax credit, and reinstates protection for all state and local taxes up to $10,000.Im pleased that graduate students preparing to enter the workforce will have reduced tuition exempted from taxes another improvement from our earlier bill. For those planning for retirement, popular savings accounts such as IRAs and 401(k)s are preserved, and relief from the death tax that inhibits passing small family businesses and farms to the next generation is doubled.For the 75 percent of Southwest Washington taxpayers who use standard deduction, they will now see nearly double the amount of their money protected from taxes, and even more taxpayers will now be able to take advantage of the standard deduction. Importantly, this bill will boost the econo…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://jayapal.house.gov/media/press-releases/jayapal-statement-passage-gop-tax-scam	Jayapal Statement on Passage of the GOP Tax Scam	2017-12-19	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Pramila Jayapal	J000298	jayapal.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal released the following statement in response to House passage of the Republican tax bill that raises taxes on middle class families while giving tax breaks to large corporations and the wealthy: The GOP tax scam bill is an all-out war on any idea of opportunity in this country. Its a massive tax break for the ultra-wealthy on the backs of middle class families. Its outrageous that Republicans in the House voted to pass this love letter to their largest donors and corporations. Despite overwhelming opposition from the American people, this tax scam dismantles the Affordable Care Act, throwing 13 million people off their health care. It eliminates most of the State and Local Tax deduction, short-changing communities and resulting in as much as $152 billion in cuts to education funding over the next decade. It runs up the deficit anywhere from $1 trillion to $1.5 trillion, triggering cuts to Medicare and Medicaid. Despite what Republicans say, the fact of the matter is that 80 percent of all tax benefits in this bill go to the top one percent. With this heist, Republicans have branded themselves as the party of billionaires and giant corporationsthey are robbing the American people and showing zero remorse.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://larsen.house.gov/https%3A//larsen.house.gov/press-release/Writing-a-National-Security-Strategy-is-Good%3B-Acting-Strategically-is-Better	Larsen: Writing a National Security Strategy is Good; Acting Strategically is Better	2017-12-19	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Rick Larsen	L000560	larsen.house.gov	legacy		0	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://larsen.house.gov/press-release/larsen-votes-against-republican-tax-conference-report	Larsen Votes Against Republican Tax Conference Report	2017-12-19	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Rick Larsen	L000560	larsen.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. Rep. Rick Larsen (WA-02) today released the following statement after voting against the Republican tax conference report. Once again, Congressional Republicans have put the interests of corporations and the wealthy ahead of what is best for hardworking American families. The latest partisan tax package will still drastically raise the deficit by $1.5 trillion, increase taxes on veterans and the middle-class, and deny vital comprehensive health coverage to over 39,000 Washingtonians in the district I represent. The Republican tax conference report is nothing more than a permanent tax break for the wealthiest Americans at the expense of the middle class. Analysis from the Tax Policy Center found that the top one percent of Americans would receive an estimated 62 percent of the bills proposed tax cuts- that is more than double the George W. Bush-era tax cuts. In Washington state, the richest one percent will receive an average $7,750 tax cut under the GOP tax bill, while lower income Washingtonians face tax hikes according to the Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy. I stand with my constituents who have called, sent letters, attended community coffees or otherwise made their voices heard about the harm this Republican tax bill would cause. Like the U.S. military retiree in Oak Harbor, who worries about how the GOP tax scam jeopardizes the retirement they have worked a lifetime for by raiding Medicare funds; the couple in Lynnwood who is concerned about the impact of the reduced mortgage interest and SALT deductions on their property value under the new bill and; the low- and middle income families throughout Washington states Second District who will struggle to make ends meet once the bills temporary, modest tax cuts end, said Larsen. Real bipartisan tax reform should simplify the tax code, support middle-class families and veterans, strongly invest in infrastructure, foster more well-paying jobs, and ensure access to affordable, high-quality health care. I voted against this GOP tax scam …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://mcmorris.house.gov/mcmorris-rodgers-statement-house-passes-tax-cuts-jobs-act/	McMorris Rodgers Statement as House Passes Tax Cuts & Jobs Act	2017-12-19	2017	2017-12	Republican	House	WA	Cathy McMorris Rodgers	M001159	mcmorris.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. (December 19, 2017) Minutes ago, the House passed the Tax Cuts & Jobs Act(H.R. 1) to provide tax relief to families in Eastern Washington and across the country. Eastern Washington Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) took to Facebook Live to discuss the importance of this bill and the benefit it will bring to hardworking families around the country. In case you missed it, you can see herstatement here: For people in Eastern Washington, I often hear families and individuals say that they feel like they are working harder and harder but falling behind, said McMorris Rodgers. Im excited about what the Tax Cuts & Jobs Act means for them. This evening, the Senate will take up this legislation for consideration. You can find details about the Congresswomans priorities for the final version of theTax Cuts & Jobs Act here, and go to Fairandsimple.GOP for resources on tax reform and what it means for the American people. # # #	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reducing-tax-burden-american-families	Reducing the Tax Burden on American Families	2017-12-19	2017	2017-12	Republican	House	WA	Dan Newhouse	N000189	newhouse.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) released the following statement after voting in favor ofthe House and Senate conference report on The Tax Cut and Jobs Act, which provides the first major reform to the federal tax code in 31 years: As Republicans, we promised a unified plan to reduce the burden of taxes and government mandates on American families and businesses, and that is exactly what we have delivered, said Rep. Newhouse. Today, we passed the first major pro-growth, pro-family tax reform in 31 years. Doubling the standard deductionwhich is used by eighty percent of filers in the Fourth Congressional Districtand increasing the child tax credit will provide real relief for working families in Central Washington. Additionally, this bill is a win for small businesses and farmers by allowing them to immediately write off the full cost of new equipment and increasing those who are shielded from the unfair death tax which allows more family farms and small businesses to pass on the success of a lifetime of hard work to the next generation. We promised to remove the individual mandate, which is an unfair tax penalty that hits middle-income families in the Fourth District. With this major reform, that Obama-era burden will be removed once and for all. WATCH: Rep. Newhouse Q&A with House Ways and Means Chairman on How Tax Reform Legislation Affects Central Washington In Washington State, 88% of taxpayers who pay the Obamacare individual mandate penalty tax make $75,000 or less: Click to see the percentage of taxpayers who pay Obamacares individual mandate penalty tax in each county in the Fourth Congressional District: Adams, Benton, Douglas, Franklin, Grant, Okanogan, Walla Walla, Yakima. Click here for recent tax return information, including the average itemized deductions of filers, in Adams, Benton, Douglas, Franklin, Grant, Okanogan, Walla Walla, and Yakima counties. Congressional district tax return data available here. According to the House Committee on Ways and Means, a median income married-cou…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://reichert.house.gov/press-release/historic-day-house-passes-tax-reform	A Historic Day - House Passes Tax Reform	2017-12-19	2017	2017-12	Republican	House	WA	Dave Reichert	R000578	reichert.house.gov	legacy	Washington, DC Today the House passed by a vote of 227-203 the final version of H.R. 1, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. With passage in the Senate, this legislation will be sent to the Presidents desk for a signature. Representative Dave Reichert (R-WA) released this statement following final passage. Today is truly historic, Rep. Reichert said. We accomplished something that has not been successfully done since 1986. We passed a tax bill to make our tax code work for the American people. It puts more money in your pocket through lower tax rates and an increased standard deduction. To grow wages and jobs here at home, we provide tax relief for businesses big and small.While I know these provisions will benefit the American people, I am deeply disappointed that this Conference report rejected my request to remove drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge from the bill. Through my years on the Ways and Means Committee, I have consistently evaluated each tax proposal on what it would mean for families and for our economic growth. I am proud to support this bill because it passes this test and I look forward to seeing America better off for it. The final text of H.R. 1, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act can be found HERE. Policy highlights of the bill can be found HERE.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-cantwell-statement-on-banking-committees-rejection-of-ex-im-bank-nominee-scott-garrett	Senator Cantwell Statement on Banking Committee’s Rejection of Ex-Im Bank Nominee Scott Garrett	2017-12-19	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Maria Cantwell	C000127	www.cantwell.senate.gov	legacy	12.19.17 Senator Cantwell Statement on Banking Committees Rejection of Ex-Im Bank Nominee Scott Garrett WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) released the following statement in response to the U.S. Senate Banking Committees 13-10 vote to reject Scott Garretts nomination to chair the Export-Import Bank (Ex-Im). As a Congressman, Garrett favored dismantling the bank. "I applaud the Senate Banking Committees decision to reject Mr. Garretts nomination. If we want to create jobs across America, we need a fully functioning Export-Import Bank approving these deals from manufacturers that are ready to close sales and hire workers, said Senator Cantwell. The president needs to send us a qualified nominee who wants to see the bank succeed." As one of the most trade dependent state in the nation, the Ex-Im Bank is vital to Washington states economy. Since Ex-Im was reauthorized in December 2016, six transactions worth $2.6 billion whose primary exporter is from Washington State have been stalled. Senator Cantwell has long fought for a full functioning and permanently reauthorized Export-Import Bank to ensure American companies can compete on a level playing field with global competitors. She pressed for board members to be nominated and confirmed to the banks board last year. In December of 2015, the Ex-Im Bank received a 4-year reauthorization thanks in part to Cantwells advocacy. Later that year, a coalition of Democrats secured an agreement from Majority Leader McConnell to hold a vote to reauthorize Ex-Im, which resulted in an overwhelming majority of support. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=EBB456E0-0DCB-42BB-8AA1-C75A018EB7FE	Senator Murray Statement on Banking Committee Rejecting Export-Import Bank Nominee Scott Garrett	2017-12-19	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Patty Murray	M001111	www.murray.senate.gov	legacy	(Washington, D.C.) Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) released the following statement after the Senate Banking Committee, comprised of 12 Republicans and 11 Democrats, voted 13-10 to reject President Trumps nominee to lead the Export-Import Bank, Scott Garrett. The Export-Import Bank is critical to the economy in my home state of Washington, and it deserves someone at the helm who believes in our workers and in U.S. manufacturing. Unfortunately, throughout the course of his nomination process, Scott Garrett failed to convince me that he was committed to the mission of the Ex-Im Bank or that he had abandoned his repugnant, anti-LGBTQ statements, so I applaud my colleagues on the Senate Banking Committee for rejecting his nomination. I would hope Republican leadership will not defy this Committee and attempt to advance this nomination any further. It is also now crucial for the full Senate to confirm the other five nominees to ensure Ex-Im can be a fully-functioning agency. For more on Sen. Murrays meeting with Mr. Garrett, click here.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/kilmer-statement-on-amtrak-train-501-derailment-	Kilmer Statement on Amtrak Train 501 Derailment	2017-12-18	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Derek Kilmer	K000381	kilmer.house.gov	legacy	12.18.17 Kilmer Statement on Amtrak Train 501 Derailment WASHINGTON, DC Today, Representative Derek Kilmer (WA-06) issued the following statement regarding the derailment of Amtrak train 501 in Pierce County: I pray for the safety of those affected by the derailment of Amtrak train 501 near Dupont including passengers, commuters and first responders, Rep. Derek Kilmer said. I stand ready to work with Amtrak and state and federal officials as they manage the response to this incident and will continue monitoring this situation closely. Previous Article	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/senators-murray-cantwell-and-representatives-kilmer-heck-announce-critical-investments-in-puget-sound-recovery	Senators Murray, Cantwell and Representatives Kilmer, Heck Announce Critical Investments in Puget Sound Recovery	2017-12-18	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Derek Kilmer	K000381	kilmer.house.gov	legacy	12.18.17 Senators Murray, Cantwell and Representatives Kilmer, Heck Announce Critical Investments in Puget Sound Recovery (Washington, D.C.) Today, Senators Patty Murray (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Maria Cantwell (D-WA), top Democrat on the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, and Representatives Derek Kilmer (D-WA) and Denny Heck (D-WA) announced new federal investments totaling $25.2 million to support the continued cleanup and restoration of the Puget Sound. Originally appropriated by Congress in last years budget, the grants were awarded through the Environmental Protection Agencys National Estuary Program and will fund state, local and tribal Puget Sound recovery and conservation efforts. Puget Sound is one of the Pacific Northwests most cherished cultural and environmental treasures, and this announcement is great news for Washington state families who benefit from the important role it plays in our states economy and ecology, said Senator Murray. Strong federal investments in the Sounds recovery and cleanup will help ensure that our local communities continue to reap Puget Sounds rich benefits for generations to come, and as a voice for Washington state I will continue fighting back against the Trump Administrations attempts to eliminate funding for this and other critical Puget Sound efforts. Investments like these lead to a cleaner Puget Sound and healthy fisheries that sustain jobs in our tourism and fishing sectors, said Representative Kilmer. As co-chairman of the Puget Sound Recovery Caucus, Im working to protect Puget Sound and enhance the vital role it plays in our regions culture and economy. All of us who are privileged to live in Washington state understand the fundamental importance of a healthy Puget Sound to our way of life. Orca and salmon call Puget Sound home, and are iconic figures of the Pacific Northwest, said Representative Heck. Federal investments like EPAs National Estuary Program, in partnership with our state, local, and tr…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://dennyheck.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/amtrak-train-that-crashed-was-on-first-run	Amtrak train that crashed was on first run	2017-12-18	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Denny Heck	H001064	dennyheck.house.gov	legacy	A high-speed Amtrak train that derailed in Washington stateon Mondaymorning was embarking on its inaugural run, raising questions about whether the passenger railroad was properly equipped to handle the new service. The horrific crash, which left multiple people dead and injured, brought to life a chilling concernvoicedby Lakewood Mayor Don Anderson earlier this month: The new route could wind up killing someone. Something went very, very wrong, Rep.Denny Heck(D-Wash.), who represents the district where the crash occurred, saidMonday. There are some questions we will demand to be answered. An Amtrak train carrying 78 passengers was traveling across ahighway overpass in DuPont, Wash., and entering into a curve when it derailed, causing two rail cars to fall onto the highway below and leaving another dangling in the air. Its unclear what caused the crash or how fast the train was going. The train waspart of a brand new Cascades high-speed rail service program that Amtrak launchedMondaymorning betweenSeattle and Portland. The train can travel up to a maximum speed of 79 mph and the cars are supposed to be equipped with a special technology that uses gravity to allow it to tilt through curves while it maintains speed. The additional trips make the service more convenient and accessible for all travelers and allow more options for day trips along the corridor, Amtrak says on its website. But Washington state officials have long been raising various safety concerns about the new high-speed route, including a warning that it could be especially dangerous for trains to travel that fast when they head into a curve. Amtrak did not immediately return a request for comment about when and how many test-runs were performed on the tracks prior toMonday, and whether there were any extra precautions taken to ensure that the new service ran smoothly on its first day. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has sent a team of investigators to the scene, where they will be exploring whether mechanical or human errors were to…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://dennyheck.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/senators-murray-cantwell-and-representatives-kilmer-heck-announce	Senators Murray, Cantwell and Representatives Kilmer, Heck Announce Critical Investments in Puget Sound Recovery	2017-12-18	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Denny Heck	H001064	dennyheck.house.gov	legacy	(Washington, D.C.) Today, Senators Patty Murray (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Maria Cantwell (D-WA), top Democrat on the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, and Representatives Derek Kilmer (D-WA) and Denny Heck (D-WA) announced new federal investments totaling $25.2 million to support the continued cleanup and restoration of the Puget Sound. Originally appropriated by Congress in last years budget, the grants were awarded through the Environmental Protection Agencys National Estuary Program and will fund state, local and tribal Puget Sound recovery and conservation efforts. Puget Sound is one of the Pacific Northwests most cherished cultural and environmental treasures, and this announcement is great news for Washington state families who benefit from the important role it plays in our states economy and ecology, said Senator Murray. Strong federal investments in the Sounds recovery and cleanup will help ensure that our local communities continue to reap Puget Sounds rich benefits for generations to come, and as a voice for Washington state I will continue fighting back against the Trump Administrations attempts to eliminate funding for this and other critical Puget Sound efforts. Investments like these lead to a cleaner Puget Sound and healthy fisheries that sustain jobs in our tourism and fishing sectors, said Representative Kilmer. As co-chairman of the Puget Sound Recovery Caucus, Im working to protect Puget Sound and enhance the vital role it plays in our regions culture and economy. All of us who are privileged to live in Washington state understand the fundamental importance of a healthy Puget Sound to our way of life. Orca and salmon call Puget Sound home, and are iconic figures of the Pacific Northwest, said Representative Heck. Federal investments like EPAs National Estuary Program, in partnership with our state, local, and tribal efforts, are vital to Puget Sound recovery and help us honor our treaty obligations. As co-chair of the Puget Sound Recovery…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://dennyheck.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/statement-from-congressman-denny-heck-on-derailment-of-amtrak-cascades	Statement from Congressman Denny Heck on derailment of Amtrak Cascades 501 near DuPont, Washington	2017-12-18	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Denny Heck	H001064	dennyheck.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. Following the news of the derailment of the Amtrak Cascades 501 train traveling from Seattle to Portland, Representative Denny Heck (WA-10) issued the following statement: The images emerging from this terrible accident are painful and distressing. My heart goes out to all of the families affected and we continue to keep them in our prayers in hopes that their loved ones will be okay. We know this train was the first southbound Amtrak Cascades departure from Seattle to use the new Point Defiance Bypass route through south Tacoma, Lakewood, and Joint Base Lewis-McChord. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) will be conducting a thorough investigation to find out what went wrong. Even in the face of this devastating situation, our first responders and community put aside their grief and stepped up to help. I thank the professionals reporting to the scene, the community members donating blood, volunteers assisting victims families, and all of those around the country sending prayers. Individuals looking for information about their loved ones on Amtrak Cascades 501 can call 800-523-9101.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://jayapal.house.gov/media/press-releases/jayapal-statement-amtrak-cascades-501-derailment	Jayapal Statement on Amtrak Cascades 501 Derailment	2017-12-18	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Pramila Jayapal	J000298	jayapal.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal released the following statement in response to the Amtrak Cascades 501 derailment near DuPont, Washington. "The news of the devastating train derailment outside of Dupont this morning is horrifying. My heart goes out to the victims, their friends and family, and everyone impacted by this tragedy. The results of the investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board will be critical in making sense of this deadly accident. We must ensure that the board and the local authorities have all the resources needed for thorough review and recovery efforts. I am deeply grateful for our first responders on the ground, and I will continue to closely monitor the situation as it develops. I urge anyone with friends and family who may be impacted by this tragedy to contact Amtrak immediately. Individuals with friends and family on Amtrak Cascades 501 are encouraged to call 1-800-523-9101.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns-and-op-eds/column-listen-local-voices-preserving-dams	COLUMN: Listen to Local Voices on Preserving Dams	2017-12-18	2017	2017-12	Republican	House	WA	Dan Newhouse	N000189	newhouse.house.gov	legacy	Even well-intentioned crusades in the name of the environment can cause real economic consequences for communities on our side of the Cascade divide. I was disappointed that Governor Jay Inslee recently chose to side with west-side interest groups that are seeking to increase spill or even breach the federal dams on the lower Snake River. Our Mid-Columbia communities would pay the price. The stakes for our region are too high for preserving the dams on the Columbia and the Snake rivers to be approached in a partisan way. In response to a federal judges misguided order in 2016 that threatens our dams, I joined my congressional colleagues in the Pacific Northwest earlier this year to introduce bipartisan legislation, H.R. 3144. Our bill would preserve the 2014 Federal Columbia River Power System Biological Opinion (BiOp), negotiated under the Obama administration, until 2022, which would prevent the breaching of our dams. Dont just take my word for it: Stakeholders and residents in central Washington are raising their voice after the Governor announced his opposition to our legislation: Eastern WA irrigation farmers are discouraged by the direction that the Governor is taking with the dam issue. Our congressional representatives see the need for the dams to stay in place, and their position is not political; it is based on actual facts in regards to hydropower, flood control, and irrigationwhich are reflected in the current BiOp.My fourth, fifth, and sixth-generation family farm will not survive another generation without these dams. If the farms fail, so will our communities. I encourage the Governor to help us do what is best for our state and allow the dams to continue to do the job they were originally intended to do and support what is right for Washington state. Michele Kiesz, Farmer, Ritzville I am disappointed in the position taken by the Governor. It is obvious to me that he is being influenced by west side special interests. Its too bad he has failed to grasp the importance of hydropower in the Pacific N…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-statement-on-amtrak-train-derailment	Cantwell Statement on Amtrak Train Derailment	2017-12-18	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Maria Cantwell	C000127	www.cantwell.senate.gov	legacy	12.18.17 Cantwell Statement on Amtrak Train Derailment WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) released the following statement on the Amtrak train derailment near Olympia, Washington. My heart breaks for all those affected by todays derailment. We owe so much to the first responders who responded quickly to protect the public and save lives. I have spoken with Governor Inslee, the National Transportation Safety Board, Amtrak leadership, and others, and continue to get information on the derailment. We need to let the investigators on the ground do their job, and we should pay close attention to their recommendations to ensure that this type of tragedy will not be repeated. Until then, I will work with Senator Murray and the congressional delegation to ensure federal resources are available as needed. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=27E9000B-379F-49CB-832C-E7CA1FE0A8E5	Senator Murray Statement on Deadly Train Derailment Near Olympia	2017-12-18	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Patty Murray	M001111	www.murray.senate.gov	legacy	(Washington, D.C.) Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) released the following statement. This is a tough day for our stateand my heart goes out to the families who lost a loved one today, to the many more who were injured in this mornings derailment, and to all of those who remain uncertain and concerned about the full scope of the tragedy. I am reaching out to officials on the ground, and making it clear that I am ready to help in any way possible at the federal level. In the coming hours, days, and weeks, investigators will be looking into what caused this terrible tragedy and provide the answers to the many outstanding questions we all have about what happened and why. I want to extend my sincere gratitude for the many first responders who rushed to the scene and worked to help others in their time of need.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=AF8810F9-BBFC-4119-86CB-E93AC167DF6D	Senators Murray, Cantwell and Representatives Kilmer, Heck Announce Critical Investments in Puget Sound Recovery	2017-12-18	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Patty Murray	M001111	www.murray.senate.gov	legacy	EPA awards more than $25M to support Puget Sound cleanup and protection efforts Lawmakers push back against Trump Administrations efforts to eliminate funding for Puget Sound restoration (Washington, D.C.) Today, Senators Patty Murray (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Maria Cantwell (D-WA), top Democrat on the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, and Representatives Derek Kilmer (D-WA) and Denny Heck (D-WA) announced new federal investments totaling $25.2 million to support the continued cleanup and restoration of the Puget Sound. Originally appropriated by Congress in last years budget, the grants were awarded through the Environmental Protection Agencys National Estuary Program and will fund state, local and tribal Puget Sound recovery and conservation efforts. Puget Sound is one of the Pacific Northwests most cherished cultural and environmental treasures, and this announcement is great news for Washington state families who benefit from the important role it plays in our states economy and ecology, said Senator Murray. Strong federal investments in the Sounds recovery and cleanup will help ensure that our local communities continue to reap Puget Sounds rich benefits for generations to come, and as a voice for Washington state I will continue fighting back against the Trump Administrations attempts to eliminate funding for this and other critical Puget Sound efforts. Investments like these lead to a cleaner Puget Sound and healthy fisheries that sustain jobs in our tourism and fishing sectors, said Representative Kilmer. As co-chairman of the Puget Sound Recovery Caucus, Im working to protect Puget Sound and enhance the vital role it plays in our regions culture and economy. All of us who are privileged to live in Washington state understand the fundamental importance of a healthy Puget Sound to our way of life. Orca and salmon call Puget Sound home, and are iconic figures of the Pacific Northwest, said Representative Heck. Federal investments like EPAs National Es…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://dennyheck.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/ballard-locks-federal-infrastructure-deserve-more-funding	Ballard Locks, federal infrastructure, deserve more funding	2017-12-17	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Denny Heck	H001064	dennyheck.house.gov	legacy	Washington lawmakers are right to press President Donald Trumps administration to fund much needed maintenance and upgrades at the Ballard Locks in Seattle. In aletter sent Friday, a coalition of representatives urged Trump and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to fund the locks improvements in their 2018 and 2019 budgets. This work is needed to ensure that the Lake Washington Ship Canals linkage to Puget Sound continues to operate safely and reliably. The locks are among numerous public facilities built over the last century to enable industrial activity and the rise of cities in the West. Many suffer from a backlog of maintenance, along with much of the nations infrastructure. This is another element of frustration with Trump. He promised massive infrastructure spending, which would have received bipartisan support. Yet instead hes pursuing divisive tax reforms that will put the nation deeper in debt and affect its ability to fund essential services and facilities. Lacking a comprehensive infrastructure plan, places like the Puget Sound region must continually fight for dollops of funding to patch what they can. The Ballard Locks are a strong candidate. Muchmore than a tourist destination, the century-old locks are the nations busiest and support maritime industries generating more than $1.2 billion in annual sales. The facility provides the only access from Puget Sound for 50 businesses on the freshwater side that employ about 3,000 people, according to a study released last summer. Yet the locks need $30 million to $60 million worth of work. Fridays letter notes that federal reviews deemed lock upgrades high urgency and found many of its components are in poor or failing condition. It specifically asks for $12 million to replace the original filling culvert valves with a more reliable hydraulic system that should also be safer for juvenile salmon. The letter was sent by Sens. Patty Murray and Maria Cantwell, along with U.S. Reps. Pramila Jayapal, Adam Smith, Rick Larsen, Dave Reichert, Suzan DelBene, Denny Hec…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/reps-herrera-beutler-kilmer-introduce-legislation-to-extend-vital-protection-of-fishing-boats-small-vessels-from-overly-broad-discharge-rule	Reps. Herrera Beutler, Kilmer Introduce Legislation to Extend Vital Protection of Fishing Boats, Small Vessels from Overly-Broad Discharge Rule	2017-12-15	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Derek Kilmer	K000381	kilmer.house.gov	legacy	12.15.17 Reps. Herrera Beutler, Kilmer Introduce Legislation to Extend Vital Protection of Fishing Boats, Small Vessels from Overly-Broad Discharge Rule WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Representatives Jaime Herrera Beutler (WA-03) and Derek Kilmer (WA-06) introduced legislation yesterday to extend an exemption for fishing boats and small vessels from EPA incidental discharge regulations so they can continue to operate without facing financial costs and delays. Their bill, Fishing and Small Vessel Relief Act, extends the current exemption by three years, relieving small boats under 79 feet from EPAs vessel incidental discharge permitting requirements.This protection has long-standing bipartisan support, andSen. Maria Cantwell has introduced a companion bill in the U.S. Senate. Science has shown that incidental discharge from small fishing boats and other undersized vessels those under 79 feet do not present significant environmental risks.These boats have been given an exemption from EPA-mandated vessel incidental discharge permitting requirements. Unfortunately, that exemption is set to expire on December 18, which would leave fishermen and small vessels at sudden risk of being in violation of a federal rule from which they've long been exempted. Fishermen, shellfish growers and small vessel operators are key economic contributors to our Pacific County communities; theirlivelihoodsrepresent thousands of paychecks, Herrera Beutler said. These requirements were only ever meant for larger vessels, but if Congress doesn't act soon, the small boats will take a serious hit. I'm hopeful this bipartisan solution will be included in any end-of-year legislation to give our fishing businesses relief and certainty. This is a commonsense solution to shield our small business owners from a regulation that was not intended to target them, Kilmer said. Congress should act now to fix the problem so that our fishermen and shellfish growers have the certainty they need to keep their operations afloat. Their bill would provide…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/wa-lawmakers-urge-federal-funding-for-critical-upgrades-to-ballard-locks_	WA Lawmakers Urge Federal Funding for Critical Upgrades to Ballard Locks	2017-12-15	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Derek Kilmer	K000381	kilmer.house.gov	legacy	12.15.17 WA Lawmakers Urge Federal Funding for Critical Upgrades to Ballard Locks (Washington, D.C.) Today, U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA) and Maria Cantwell (D-WA) joined Reps. Pramila Jayapal, Adam Smith, Rick Larsen, Dave Reichert, Suzan DelBene, Denny Heck, and Derek Kilmer in a letter to the Trump Administration, urging it to use U.S. Army Corps of Engineers funding to restore and modernize the Lake Washington Ship Canal and Hiram M. Chittenden Locks in Seattle, more commonly known as the Ballard Locks. The Locks are not only important to public safety and the environment, but are also a significant economic driver in Washington state. Each year, the Locks handle more than one million tons of freight, support 3,000 full-time jobs, and attract over 1.3 million visitorsin total, generating $1.2 billion in economic activitybut the 100-year-old Locks are in desperate need of repair. In their letter, the lawmakers warned of the consequences of further neglect to the Locks, writing: several Army Corps reviews found that many lock and dam components are in poor or failing condition. An extended, unplanned closure of the ship canal and locks could have significant negative impacts for the more than 200 businesses that rely upon this project, endanger the lives of those living and working in the Puget Sound region, and damage critical infrastructure. The full text of the letter is below and here. The Honorable Ryan A. Fisher Acting Assistant Secretary of the Army (Civil Works) U.S. Department of the Army 108 Army Pentagon Washington, D.C. 20310-0108 The Honorable Mick Mulvaney Director Office of Management and Budget 725 17th Street, N.W. Washington, D.C. 20503 Dear Acting Assistant Secretary Fisher and Director Mulvaney: We write in support of the Lake Washington Ship Canal and Hiram M. Chittenden Locks project, more commonly known as the Ballard Locks, and urge you to allocate funding through the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Army Corps) Fiscal Year 2018 Wo…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://adamsmith.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-smith-decries-republican-s-reckless-actions-endangering	Congressman Smith Decries Republicans Reckless Actions Endangering Mandatory Programs	2017-12-15	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Adam Smith	S000510	adamsmith.house.gov	legacy	As Republicans in Congress continue to push their reckless tax cuts, they put at risk crucial agencies and programs, such as the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), military pensions, and Medicare. In addition to massively benefiting the wealthy and corporations, as well as reducing revenue by more than a trillion dollars, the tax bill endangers important mandatory spending priorities on which middle class and working Americans rely. In 2010, to help reign in deficit spending, Congress passed what is known as a PAYGO law, requiring that the legislation enacted during a session of Congress not increase the deficit under threat of automatic cuts. Because of its imbalance, the Republican tax bill risks triggering these automatic and across-the-board PAYGO cuts to critical mandatory spending programs. In a strikingly disingenuous statement, the Senate Majority Leader and Speaker of the House have asserted that the PAYGO cuts to mandatory programs that will be triggered by their tax bill will not happen for some unspecified and seemingly miraculous reason. Either Republicans have a way to skirt the law that they havent shared, or their tax bill is going to trigger the automatic cuts. Both scenarios are terrible for the middle class. Empty rhetoric is not enough, and Republicans irresponsible disregard for the consequences of their actions is dangerous. I continue to oppose the Republican tax bill and the damage it will inflict on the future of our economy and our country.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://delbene.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2239	WA Lawmakers Urge Federal Funding for Critical Upgrades to Ballard Locks	2017-12-15	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Suzan DelBene	D000617	delbene.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA) and Maria Cantwell (D-WA) joined Reps. Suzan DelBene, Pramila Jayapal, Adam Smith, Rick Larsen, Dave Reichert, Denny Heck, and Derek Kilmer in a letter to the Trump Administration, urging it to use U.S. Army Corps of Engineers funding to restore and modernize the Lake Washington Ship Canal and Hiram M. Chittenden Locks in Seattle, more commonly known as the Ballard Locks. The Locks are not only important to public safety and the environment, but are also a significant economic driver in Washington state. Each year, the Locks handle more than one million tons of freight, support 3,000 full-time jobs, and attract over 1.3 million visitorsin total, generating $1.2 billion in economic activitybut the 100-year-old Locks are in desperate need of repair. In their letter, the lawmakers warned of the consequences of further neglect to the Locks, writing: several Army Corps reviews found that many lock and dam components are in poor or failing condition. An extended, unplanned closure of the ship canal and locks could have significant negative impacts for the more than 200 businesses that rely upon this project, endanger the lives of those living and working in the Puget Sound region, and damage critical infrastructure. The full text of the letter is below and here. Dear Acting Assistant Secretary Fisher and Director Mulvaney: We write in support of the Lake Washington Ship Canal and Hiram M. Chittenden Locks project, more commonly known as the Ballard Locks, and urge you to allocate funding through the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Army Corps) Fiscal Year 2018 Work Plan and the Presidents Fiscal Year 2019 Budget Request for ongoing work to restore and modernize the ship canal and locks. The safe and efficient operation of the Ballard Locks supports $1.2 billion in total lock-related economic activity handling more than 1 million tons of freight, approximately 3,000 full-time jobs, and over 1.3 million visitors annually in the Puget Sound region. …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://dennyheck.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/house-hearing-builds-momentum-for-cfius-reform	House Hearing Builds Momentum for CFIUS Reform	2017-12-15	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Denny Heck	H001064	dennyheck.house.gov	legacy	House members on Thursday began digging into the details of a bill to reform the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States by increasing scrutiny of business deals that transfer valuable technology to countries like China that may pose a national security threat. This is a problem that every part of the U.S. government will have to work together to address," Rep. Denny Heck said during a hearing of the House Financial Services Monetary Policy and Trade Subcommittee. "There are some aspects of this problem that can only be addressed through legislative action to close gaps in existing CFIUS authority." Subcommittee Chairman Andy Barr praised the legislation and said he expected more hearings on it in early 2018. The bill, identified asH.R. 4311 (115)in the House andS. 2098 (115)in the Senate, would expand CFIUS's jurisdiction to include some joint ventures, minority-position investments and real estate transactions located near military bases or other sensitive national security institutions. It would also expand the definition of "critical technologies" to include emerging technologies. For more details on the hearing, read the story from POLITICOs Mary Leehere.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://dennyheck.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/house-intel-dem-if-trump-pardons-flynn-it-will-be-the-beginning-of-the	House Intel dem: If Trump pardons Flynn it will be the beginning of the unraveling of his presidency	2017-12-15	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Denny Heck	H001064	dennyheck.house.gov	legacy	House Intelligence Committee member Rep. Dennis Heck (D-WA) on Friday warned Donald Trump against considering a pardon for his onetime national security adviser Michael Flynn, telling CNNs Kate Bolduan that doing so will be the beginning of the unraveling of his presidency. Trump kept the door opened for pardoning Flynn, who pleaded guilty earlier this month to lying to the FBI about the nature of his conversations with the Russian ambassador. I dont want to talk about pardons with Mike Flynn yet, Trump told reporters when asked if hes considered exonerating he longtime political ally. If President Trump pardons Mike Flynn or any of the other people involved in this, I confidently predict it will be the beginning of the unraveling of his presidency, Heck said, comparing such a move with Richard Nixons Saturday Night Massacre. Heck also pointed out that special counsel Robert Mueller included a binding agreement in his plea deal with Flynn requiring the retired general to comply with state and local authorities. The president can pardon these people for violations of federal crimes, but cannot pardon them for violations of state crimes, Heck explained. So, if he thinks hes going to give them a get out of jail free card, hes flat wrong, he added. Once again, this presidentwho seems frankly, on so many occasions not to embrace the basic and fundamental American precept of the rule of lawhe just doesnt get it. Heck also criticized he Republican counterparts in the House Intelligence Committee, arguing theyre trying to get to the end of the investigation at a rate or at a velocity which is completely out of sync with what is necessary to do this job.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://herrerabeutler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=399087	Reps. Herrera Beutler, Kilmer Introduce Legislation to Extend Vital Protection of Fishing Boats, Small Vessels from Overly-Broad Discharge Rule	2017-12-15	2017	2017-12	Republican	House	WA	Jaime Herrera Beutler	H001056	herrerabeutler.house.gov	legacy	U.S. Representatives Jaime Herrera Beutler (WA-03) and Derek Kilmer (WA-06) introduced legislation yesterday to extend an exemption for fishing boats and small vessels from EPA incidental discharge regulations so they can continue to operate without facing financial costs and delays. share: f t U.S. Representatives Jaime Herrera Beutler (WA-03) and Derek Kilmer (WA-06) introduced legislation yesterday to extend an exemption for fishing boats and small vessels from EPA incidental discharge regulations so they can continue to operate without facing financial costs and delays.Their bill, Fishing and Small Vessel Relief Act, extends the current exemption by three years, relieving small boats under 79 feet from EPAs vessel incidental discharge permitting requirements. This protection has long-standing bipartisan support, and Sen. Maria Cantwell has introduced a companion bill in the U.S. Senate. Science has shown that incidental discharge from small fishing boats and other undersized vessels those under 79 feet do not present significant environmental risks. These boats have been given an exemption from EPA-mandated vessel incidental discharge permitting requirements. Unfortunately, that exemption is set to expire on December 18, which would leave fishermen and small vessels at sudden risk of being in violation of a federal rule from which they've long been exempted. Fishermen, shellfish growers and small vessel operators are key economic contributors to our Pacific County communities; their livelihoods represent thousands of paychecks, Herrera Beutler said. These requirements were only ever meant for larger vessels, but if Congress doesn't act soon, the small boats will take a serious hit. I'm hopeful this bipartisan solution will be included in any end-of-year legislation to give our fishing businesses relief and certainty. This is a commonsense solution to shield our small business owners from a regulation that was not intended to target them, Kilmer sai…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://jayapal.house.gov/media/press-releases/wa-lawmakers-urge-federal-funding-critical-upgrades-ballard-locks	WA Lawmakers Urge Federal Funding for Critical Upgrades to Ballard Locks	2017-12-15	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Pramila Jayapal	J000298	jayapal.house.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C. Today, U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA) and Maria Cantwell (D-WA) joined Reps. Pramila Jayapal, Adam Smith, Rick Larsen, Dave Reichert, Suzan DelBene, Denny Heck, and Derek Kilmer in a letter to the Trump Administration, urging it to use U.S. Army Corps of Engineers funding to restore and modernize the Lake Washington Ship Canal and Hiram M. Chittenden Locks in Seattle, more commonly known as the Ballard Locks. The Locks are not only important to public safety and the environment, but are also a significant economic driver in Washington state. Each year, the Locks handle more than one million tons of freight, support 3,000 full-time jobs, and attract over 1.3 million visitorsin total, generating $1.2 billion in economic activitybut the 100-year-old Locks are in desperate need of repair. In their letter, the lawmakers warned of the consequences of further neglect to the Locks, writing: several Army Corps reviews found that many lock and dam components are in poor or failing condition. An extended, unplanned closure of the ship canal and locks could have significant negative impacts for the more than 200 businesses that rely upon this project, endanger the lives of those living and working in the Puget Sound region, and damage critical infrastructure. The full text of the letter is below. Dear Acting Assistant Secretary Fisher and Director Mulvaney: We write in support of the Lake Washington Ship Canal and Hiram M. Chittenden Locks project, more commonly known as the Ballard Locks, and urge you to allocate funding through the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Army Corps) Fiscal Year 2018 Work Plan and the Presidents Fiscal Year 2019 Budget Request for ongoing work to restore and modernize the ship canal and locks. The safe and efficient operation of the Ballard Locks supports $1.2 billion in total lock-related economic activity handling more than 1 million tons of freight, approximately 3,000 full-time jobs, and over 1.3 million visitors annually in the Puget Sound region. The Army Corps initiated p…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://mcmorris.house.gov/mcmorris-rodgers-statement-tax-cuts-jobs-act-conference-report/	McMorris Rodgers Statement on the Tax Cuts & Jobs Act Conference Report	2017-12-15	2017	2017-12	Republican	House	WA	Cathy McMorris Rodgers	M001159	mcmorris.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. (December 15, 2017) Eastern Washington Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) released the following statement after the House-Senate conference committee released the conference report for the Tax Cuts & Jobs Act (H.R. 1). At every step in this process, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act has been written to improve the lives of everyday Americans and their families by creating more jobs, fairer taxes, and bigger paychecks. With this pro-economic growth and pro-family tax plan, we are significantly increasing the standard deduction, lowering rates across the board, and making it easier for everyone to file their taxes. In fact, the average family of four making $73,000 a year will receive a tax cut of more than $2,000. Im also proud to say this plan carries on the legacy of the ABLE Act with my legislation to help families with children with disabilities. It allows families to roll over funds from a 529 college saving account to an ABLE account so they can pay medical bills and other living expenses. It also includes the ABLE to Work Act that would allow individuals to save more of their own money so they can explore the workforce and find a good-paying job. I would like to congratulate the House and Senate conferees and thank them for their hard work. I am particularly pleased that they came together on solutions to protect the tax exempt status of graduate student tuition waivers and Private Activity Bonds to fund the construction of low-income housing units. Americans sent us here to do big things, and overhauling our broken tax code for the first time in 31 years is at the top the list. This is our once-in-a-generation chance to change the status quo and help everyone reach their full potential in a stronger economy with more opportunities to succeed. I look forward to sending this bill to the Presidents desk by Christmas. You can view the full conference report here. NOTE: During the conference committee process, the Congresswoman repeated her priorities for the final bill including protec…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://reichert.house.gov/press-release/reichert-statement-conference-committee-report-tax-cuts-and-jobs-act	Reichert Statement on Conference Committee Report on the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act	2017-12-15	2017	2017-12	Republican	House	WA	Dave Reichert	R000578	reichert.house.gov	legacy	Washington, DC - Representative Dave Reichert (R-WA) released this statement following the release of the Conference Committee's Report on H.R. 1, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. With todays release of the final tax bill, we are moving closer to reforming our tax code for the benefit of the American people," said Rep. Reichert. "As I review this bill, I will continue to hold it to the standards I have considered throughout this process.The final result must create jobs in America, increase paychecks, and put more money in the pockets of hard working Americans. While we have made important improvements to the tax provisions of the bill for American families along the way,I am deeply disappointed the Conference Committee rejected my request to remove language that opensthe Arctic National Wildlife Refuge to drilling.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=0A3E3827-D172-48F1-8D59-DD1543B40DD4	OPIOID CRISIS: Senator Murray Asks Nations Governors, Insurance Commissioners How Federal Government Can Be Best Partner for States on the Front Lines of Opioid Crisis	2017-12-15	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Patty Murray	M001111	www.murray.senate.gov	legacy	Senate health committees top Democrat & Republican send letter to all of nations governors and insurance commissioners asking for specific recommendations to address crisis taking 91 American lives every day ICYMI: Senator Murray admonishes Trump Administration for continued failure to support emergency funding needed to combat epidemic devastating Washington state & communities nationwide Sen. Murray tackles opioid crisis, says it isnt somebody elses problem. Its all of ours (Washington, D.C.) Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), top Democrat on the Senate health committee, and committee chairman Senator Lamar Alexander (R-TN) yesterday sent a letter to every governor and state insurance commissioner in the nation asking for their specific recommendations on how the federal government can be the most effective partner for states in the battle against the opioid crisis. We are writing to ask what further changes to federal law or regulations would be helpful as you work to combat the opioid crisis in your state. Prescription drug abuse and misuse, and especially opioid abuse and misuse, is a public health crisis that has increased dramatically in scope during recent years. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, since 1999, the rate of overdose deaths involving opioids has nearly quadrupled, with over 183,000 deaths in the U.S. between 1999 and 2015. In 2016, an estimated 64,000 Americans died from a drug overdose, and beginning in 2013, the nation has seen a skyrocketing increase in deaths related to fentanyl and synthetic opioids with over 20,000 overdose deaths. Every day, 91 Americans die from an opioid overdose, the senators wrote. As a voice for Washington state, Senator Murray has long been focused on bringing an end to the opioid crisis that has deeply impacted communities throughout the region. In addition to traveling throughout Washington state to hear from families, patients, medical professionals and law enforcement about the unique challenges local communities face in th…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=7FB30FC6-435C-4CBF-BE93-D0F1DC1A78E4	WA Lawmakers Urge Federal Funding for Critical Upgrades to Ballard Locks	2017-12-15	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Patty Murray	M001111	www.murray.senate.gov	legacy	The 100-year-old Locksresponsible for more than $1 billion in economic activity each yearare in desperate need of repairs (Washington, D.C.) Today, U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA) and Maria Cantwell (D-WA) joined Reps. Pramila Jayapal, Adam Smith, Rick Larsen, Dave Reichert, Suzan DelBene, Denny Heck, and Derek Kilmer in a letter to the Trump Administration, urging it to use U.S. Army Corps of Engineers funding to restore and modernize the Lake Washington Ship Canal and Hiram M. Chittenden Locks in Seattle, more commonly known as the Ballard Locks. The Locks are not only important to public safety and the environment, but are also a significant economic driver in Washington state. Each year, the Locks handle more than one million tons of freight, support 3,000 full-time jobs, and attract over 1.3 million visitorsin total, generating $1.2 billion in economic activitybut the 100-year-old Locks are in desperate need of repair. In their letter, the lawmakers warned of the consequences of further neglect to the Locks, writing: several Army Corps reviews found that many lock and dam components are in poor or failing condition. An extended, unplanned closure of the ship canal and locks could have significant negative impacts for the more than 200 businesses that rely upon this project, endanger the lives of those living and working in the Puget Sound region, and damage critical infrastructure. The full text of the letter is below and here. The Honorable Ryan A. Fisher Acting Assistant Secretary of the Army (Civil Works) U.S. Department of the Army 108 Army Pentagon Washington, D.C. 20310-0108 The Honorable Mick Mulvaney Director Office of Management and Budget 725 17th Street, N.W. Washington, D.C. 20503 Dear Acting Assistant Secretary Fisher and Director Mulvaney: We write in support of the Lake Washington Ship Canal and Hiram M. Chittenden Locks project, more commonly known as the Ballard Locks, and urge you to allocate funding through the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Army Corp…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=FF7C6BD0-0D1B-42E5-8F00-CB37B5D1A92E	Senator Murray Statement on Court Decision to Temporarily Block President Trumps Rollback of Birth Control Access	2017-12-15	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Patty Murray	M001111	www.murray.senate.gov	legacy	Senator Murray: Access to birth control isnt about politics, its about a womans health and her financial security WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) issued the following statement on a Pennsylvania federal judges decision to temporarily block the Trump Administrations rules that would allow virtually any employer or university to choose whether or not birth control is covered under their employees insurance. This decision recognizes what women across the country already know: access to birth control isnt about politics, its about a womans health and her financial security. The Trump Administrations decision to allow virtually any employer or university to take birth control coverage away from women will have deeply harmful consequences for them and their families, and Im going to keep doing everything I can to fight back against their extreme, anti-woman agenda.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://delbene.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2238	DelBene Statement in Opposition of the FCC Vote to Repeal Net Neutrality	2017-12-14	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Suzan DelBene	D000617	delbene.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (WA-01) released the following statement after the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) voted to repeal net neutrality rules that were put in place to protect consumers: America has been a world leader in innovation in large part because weve benefited from a free and open internet, but we wont remain at the top by adopting backward policies that hurt consumers, DelBene said. I strongly oppose the FCCs decision to fully repeal net neutrality and allow internet service providers to influence the content users can see. Given the opportunity, internet service providers could block content and services or charge premiums for the kind of open access weve come to expect. Theres no question that todays vote is a massive loss, both for consumers and for innovation. Today, the FCC voted to rescind the 2015 Open Internet Order net neutrality which has protected consumers from internet service providers blocking, throttling or prioritizing certain content and services for a fee. Before serving in Congress, DelBene had a long career in the technology sector as a businesswoman and entrepreneur. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://mcmorris.house.gov/mcmorris-rodgers-statement-fcc-net-neutrality-vote/	McMorris Rodgers Statement on FCC Net Neutrality Vote	2017-12-14	2017	2017-12	Republican	House	WA	Cathy McMorris Rodgers	M001159	mcmorris.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. (December 14, 2017) – Today, Eastern Washington Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) released the following statement after the Federal Communication Commission’s vote to roll back heavy-handed Title II regulations put into place by the Obama administration. “I support an open Internet, but there is a better way to ensure consumer protections without disrupting the free flow of information and innovation that has made it a cornerstone of the 21st Century economy,” said McMorris Rodgers. “The heavy-handed rules from the Obama administration stifled investment in rural communities, like those in Eastern Washington, and created uncertainty for ISPs in meeting the requirements of those rules. What I want is for everyone to come to the table to find a bipartisan, legislative solution that will protect consumers while not harming investment, innovation, and free-market principles.” NOTE: The Obama-era rules reclassified Internet governance as a utility according to a 1934 statute. The vote today by the FCC will return Internet governance to the way it was prior to 2015, under which the Internet grew and expanded and became what it is today. In a recent letter from 63 small broadband providers around the country, they said: “Since the Commission reclassified broadband as a public utility in 2015, investment has been heading in the wrong direction.” The Obama-era rules created significant regulatory uncertainty for the companies deploying and maintaining broadband networks. In fact, when asked by members of Congress, former FCC Chairman Wheeler could not clearly identify what a violation of the rule’s general conduct standard would be. This uncertainty resulted in less consumer choice, less innovation, and less broadband development. According to a recent economic analysis, domestic broadband capital expansion declined by $3.6 billion in the years since these heavy-handed regulations were implemented, a 5.6 percent decline relative to 2014 levels. # # #	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://reichert.house.gov/press-release/reichert-statement-fcc-net-neutrality-vote	Reichert Statement on FCC Net Neutrality Vote	2017-12-14	2017	2017-12	Republican	House	WA	Dave Reichert	R000578	reichert.house.gov	legacy	Reichert Statement on FCC Net Neutrality Vote Dec 14, 2017 Washington, DC - Congressman Dave Reichert (R-WA) released the following statement after the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) vote on net neutrality this afternoon. "While we share the goal of maintaining an open Internet, I am concerned about the FCC’s decision to eliminate the bright-line rules that have prohibited the blocking of legal content, slowing down of services, and the creation of paid fast lanes," said Rep. Reichert. "These net neutrality principles have helped to keep the Internet a source of communication, creativity, learning, and job creation for every American. Congress should work on a bipartisan basis to ensure the Internet remains open, free from interference, and a source of innovation."	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-portman-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-help-people-receive-care-in-their-homes-reduce-health-costs-	Cantwell, Portman Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Help People Receive Care in their Homes, Reduce Health Costs	2017-12-14	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Maria Cantwell	C000127	www.cantwell.senate.gov	legacy	12.14.17 Cantwell, Portman Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Help People Receive Care in their Homes, Reduce Health Costs WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and Rob Portman (R-OH) have introduced the Ensuring Medicaid Provides Opportunities for Widespread Equity, Resources, and Care Act – or EMPOWER Care Act – to help Medicaid beneficiaries receive long-term services and support in their community or home and help save taxpayer dollars in the process. The bill would renew and expand the Money Follows the Person (MFP) Demonstration Program, which promotes community-based care and services and is as a sterling example of an initiative that improves patient outcomes while saving money for state and federal taxpayers. The program extended in Cantwell and Portman’s legislation provides states with funding and flexibility to help Medicaid beneficiaries, including the elderly and people with disabilities, transition from institutional settings to home and community-based long-term care settings. “Helping people access long-term care while staying in their own homes is a win-win: patients prefer it, and it saves money,” said Senator Cantwell. “The EMPOWER Care Act will build on Washington state’s leadership in promoting home- and community-based care, by giving states tools and resources to improve quality of life and reduce health care costs in their Medicaid programs.” “I’m proud to continue my support for the Money Follows the Person program, by introducing the EMPOWER Care Act. Money Follows the Person has provided over 10,000 Ohioans with the opportunity receive the care that they need in their homes and communities, and I will continue to fight to ensure that all Ohioans can continue to have a choice in where they seek long-term care support,” said Senator Portman. As of September 2016, 43 states and the District of Columbia have participated in the MFP Demonstration Program. As of 2013, the program has saved nearly $1 billion for Medicare and Medicaid and helped …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-responds-to-fcc-net-neutrality-decision-with-legislation-to-block-repeal-of-open-internet-rules	Cantwell Responds to FCC Net Neutrality Decision with Legislation to Block Repeal of Open Internet Rules	2017-12-14	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Maria Cantwell	C000127	www.cantwell.senate.gov	legacy	12.14.17 Cantwell Responds to FCC Net Neutrality Decision with Legislation to Block Repeal of Open Internet Rules WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Technology, and 15 of her Senate colleagues joined together to announce their plan to introduce a Congressional Review Act (CRA) resolution that would undo today’s action by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to undermine the free and open internet and thus restore the 2015 net neutrality rules. “Today’s decision threatens our booming innovation economy,” said Senator Cantwell. “It’s impossible to know where the next big companies will come from, which makes an open and free internet all the more important to innovators, entrepreneurs and job creators – especially in the tech-driven Pacific Northwest.” Overturning the net neutrality rules threatens the principles that built America’s booming internet economy and opens the door for cable companies and internet service providers to start slowing down and blocking content, applications or websites, without consequences. CRA resolutions allow Congress to overturn regulatory actions at federal agencies with a simple majority vote in both chambers. In accordance with the Congressional Review Act, the Senators will formally introduce the resolution once the rule is submitted to both houses of Congress and published in the federal register. The CRA resolution of disapproval would rescind FCC Chairman Ajit Pai’s action and fully restore the Open Internet Order. Congressman Mike Doyle (D-Penn.) plans to introduce a CRA resolution in the House of Representatives. Other Senators co-sponsoring the CRA resolution include Senators Ed Markey (D-MA), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Richard Blumenthal (D–CT), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Gary Peters (D-MI), Deb…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-senators-proposed-cuts-to-epa-threaten-public-health	Cantwell, Senators: Proposed Cuts to EPA Threaten Public Health	2017-12-14	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Maria Cantwell	C000127	www.cantwell.senate.gov	legacy	12.14.17 Cantwell, Senators: Proposed Cuts to EPA Threaten Public Health WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) joined three dozen Senators in pushing back on proposed cuts to the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) budget that would threaten public health and the environment. “The Trump Administration has made dismantling the EPA a core mission. We urge you to oppose any legislation that advances that goal by further cutting the EPA's already decimated funding levels,” the Senators wrote in a letter to Senate leaders. “Because of these endless attacks on both the career employees and regional programs, the EPA is badly underfunded, understaffed and struggling to perform its basic and legally required functions,” they continued. “We cannot tolerate efforts to cripple an agency that, with increased use of Voluntary Separation Incentive Payments, is operating with staffing levels not seen since the 1980s.” As the Senators pointed out in the letter, these cuts threaten the EPA’s core missions of protecting the environment and public health. If the EPA’s funding levels continue to be slashed, fewer polluters will be held accountable, and clean air and water projects across the United States will be threatened. In addition to Merkley, the letter was signed by Senators Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Tom Udall (D-NM), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Edward J. Markey (D-MA), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Ben Cardin (D-MD), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Gary Peters (D-MI), Al Franken (D-MN), Chris Coons (D-DE), Kamala Harris (D-CA), Bob Casey (D-PA), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Patty Murray (D-WA), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Jack Reed (D-RI), Bill Nelson (D-FL), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Angus King (I-ME), Tom Carper (D-DE), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Bob Menendez (D-NJ), Amy …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=42100BA5-F251-46AA-9EF7-6697B6C651CE	Senator Murrays Statement on Vote to Roll Back Net Neutrality Rules	2017-12-14	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Patty Murray	M001111	www.murray.senate.gov	legacy	(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) released the following statement: “Despite the pleas of millions of Americans, President Trump’s FCC voted to change the internet as we know it, and turn it into yet another money-making tool for large corporations. This move is shameful and wrong, and I encourage the many, many people affected by today’s decision—from students and families, to small business owners and the next generation of innovators—to keep fighting back. We will not forget who and what comes first in the Trump/Republican agenda.”	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://delbene.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2237	DelBenes Landslide Bill Clears House Natural Resources Committee	2017-12-13	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Suzan DelBene	D000617	delbene.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the House Natural Resources Committee passed with unanimous support Congresswoman Suzan DelBene’s (WA-01) National Landslide Preparedness Act – a bipartisan, bicameral bill she introduced earlier this year with Sens. Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) and Maria Cantwell (D-WA). “Lawmakers need to do more to ensure we fund resources and research efforts to prevent future natural disasters from becoming national tragedies,” DelBene said. “It is time that landslide hazards are addressed properly and in a collaborative fashion and I’m glad the House Natural Resources Committee passed my legislation to boost significant scientific progress and help communities better prepare for when landslides do occur.” The National Landslide Preparedness Act would establish a National Landslide Hazards Reduction Program through the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) to better identify and understand landslide risks, protect communities, save lives and property and help improve emergency preparedness. The bill now heads to the House floor for further consideration. According to the USGS and National Research Council, landslide hazards claim 25 to 50 lives each year and cause between $1.6 and $3.2 billion in damages in the United States. DelBene introduced the legislation after a massive landslide near Oso, Washington, killed 43 people, engulfed 42 homes and severely damaged public infrastructure and private property on March 22, 2014. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kennewick-students-win-congressional-app-design-challenge	Kennewick Students Win Congressional App-Design Challenge	2017-12-13	2017	2017-12	Republican	House	WA	Dan Newhouse	N000189	newhouse.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) announced the winners of the Fourth Congressional District’s App Challenge, an app competition for K-12 students. Three Kennewick high school students of Tri-Tech Skills Center: Seth Florman, Damon Fuller, and Kyler Zimmerman, have been named the competition winners for their app named “Powerhouse,” which enables the user to take on the role of business owner of an energy company. These young men designed the app to illustrate an energy company’s responsibilities to communities and to draw attention to the challenges energy providers face when balancing production, operating expenses, and environmental decisions. You can see a preview of the app by clicking here. WATCH Rep. Newhouse speak on the floor of the U.S. House to congratulate the winners. Transcript of Rep. Newhouse’s remarks: Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize three high school students from Kennewick, Washington as the winners of Washington’s Fourth District’s 2017 Congressional App Challenge. Seth Florman, Damon Fuller, and Kyler Zimmerman spent many hours creating and refining an app they named Powerhouse, which enables the user to take on the role of business owner of an energy company. These students designed the app to illustrate an energy company’s responsibilities to communities and to draw attention to the challenges energy providers face. Thank you to our panel of judges and to the engineers at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory who will be providing the winners with a tour of their great facility. The Congressional App Challenge highlights the value of computer science and coding, and I am proud to represent Central Washington, where schools and teachers are dedicated to encouraging students to excel in STEM education. This year, the Fourth Congressional District’s App Challenge had the highest number of entries since my office began participating in the contest, which is a testament to the creativity of our young people. I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Seth, Damon, and Ky…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-lays-wreath-tomb-unknown-soldier	Newhouse Lays Wreath at Tomb of the Unknown Soldier	2017-12-13	2017	2017-12	Republican	House	WA	Dan Newhouse	N000189	newhouse.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) today laid a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia. Arlington National Cemetery is the final resting place of more than 400,000 service members, veterans, and their families. “The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery is hallowed ground,” said Rep. Newhouse. “The Old Guard keeps 24-hour vigil over the site, 365 days per year to honor all American service members who have fallen but who have not been identified. I was honored to lay a wreath today on behalf of the people of the Fourth Congressional District. Especially during this holiday season, we pay our respects and demonstrate that we never forget the heroes who have fallen in defense of our nation.” Click here for more information on Arlington National Cemetery and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Click here for high resolution photos.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ahead-of-tomorrows-fcc-vote-cantwell-defends-net-neutrality	Ahead of Tomorrow’s FCC Vote, Cantwell Defends Net Neutrality	2017-12-13	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Maria Cantwell	C000127	www.cantwell.senate.gov	legacy	12.13.17 Ahead of Tomorrow’s FCC Vote, Cantwell Defends Net Neutrality WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) took to the Senate floor to defend net neutrality and urge the Federal Communications (FCC) Chairman Ajit Pai to halt his efforts to roll back protections for an open and free internet. The FCC is expected to vote along party lines in favor of Chairman Pai’s efforts to end net neutrality, which will allows cable companies and service providers to block, throttle, or prioritize content. Here is an excerpt from Senator Cantwell’s remarks. “The FCC has had rules that prevented companies from throttling or blocking, and those rules have paved the way to many great successes. We have in the United States Fortune 500 companies and a tech industry that is responsible for 7% of our nation's GDP and 6.9 million jobs in the United States of America. Why would you change the rules now? …13% of Washington state's economy depends on a healthy internet sector. The internet economy for our state supports 250,000 jobs and…these tech jobs have been a bedrock for the middle class. Chairman Pai is clearly not focused on the 13,000 tech companies in the state of Washington, the 250,000 jobs, and the 13% of our state's economy.” ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-warns-the-gop-tax-bill-will-harm-affordable-housing-efforts-leave-working-families-in-the-rain	Cantwell Warns the GOP Tax Bill Will Harm Affordable Housing Efforts, Leave Working Families in the Rain	2017-12-13	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Maria Cantwell	C000127	www.cantwell.senate.gov	legacy	12.13.17 Cantwell Warns the GOP Tax Bill Will Harm Affordable Housing Efforts, Leave Working Families in the Rain Senator to GOP tax-writers: don’t let down working families by failing to address the nation’s affordable housing crisis WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) dialed up her fight to expand Americans’ access to affordable housing. At what was likely the only meeting of the House-Senate Conference Committee to reconcile the GOP tax bills, Cantwell urged her Republican colleagues not to abandon their constituents by using the tax bill to strip out or undermine the country’s most successful programs for creating and rehabilitating affordable housing. Multiple provisions in the House and Senate tax legislation would eliminate or substantially weaken the two most effective vehicle for creating affordable housing: the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) and Private Activity Bonds (PABs). In the conference committee hearing, Cantwell noted the large bipartisan group of senators who are on record supporting an expansion of affordable housing. “Yet the tax bill before us today goes in the opposite direction, with potentially crippling impact on our nation’s most important program for building and preserving affordable housing,” said Cantwell. “As many as 800,000 fewer units [of affordable housing] will be built over the next ten years because of this House language.” Earlier in the day, Cantwell laid out just how high the stakes are if Republicans’ tax bill fails to address the country’s affordable housing crisis. At a speech before the Bipartisan Policy Center (BPC) earlier today, Cantwell spoke to a BPC report indicating that a lack of access to affordable housing has negative health consequences for low- and middle-income Americans. The LIHTC contributes to 90% of the new affordable housing units built in the U.S., far surpassing any other feder…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/citing-unknown-impacts-on-students-and-schools-senators-cantwell-and-murray-demand-delay-of-net-neutrality-decision	Citing Unknown Impacts on Students and Schools, Senators Cantwell and Murray Demand Delay of Net Neutrality Decision	2017-12-13	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Maria Cantwell	C000127	www.cantwell.senate.gov	legacy	12.13.17 Citing Unknown Impacts on Students and Schools, Senators Cantwell and Murray Demand Delay of Net Neutrality Decision Senators are concerned rolling back net neutrality could exacerbate education inequity and increase digital divide (Washington, D.C.) – Today, Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Commerce Committee, Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Ranking Member of the Senate education committee, and 20 U.S. Senators sent a letter to Federal Communications Commission Chairman Ajit Pai urging him to consider how a free, fair and open internet provides our nation’s students with opportunities to learn and succeed. Senators requested Chairman Pai delay the proposed vote to undo net neutrality until he specifically addresses the impacts on students and schools—specifically those in rural or low-income communities, as well as how it will address education equity and the digital divide. “By overturning the Commission’s current rules that preserve net neutrality and prevent internet service providers (ISPs) from blocking, throttling, or otherwise privileging lawful content, we fear that the Draft Order could harm our nation’s students and schools—especially those in rural and low-income communities,” the senators wrote. “We urge you to delay this monumental decision to dismantle net neutrality until you have fully examined the Draft Order’s impact on our nation’s students and their ability to learn.” Allowing internet service providers to limit access and increase costs could increase the digital divide for students in rural and low-income areas, where their only access to the internet may be at a resource-constrained school or a public library. This decision could also hinder teachers’ and students’ ability to access educational materials from around the globe and make it more difficult for students with disabilities and English learners to receive a high…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=802FB033-F409-4AE7-915E-88DA7B3C39D2	Senator Murray Blasts Anti-Middle Class Provisions in Republican Tax Plan, Urges Leader Mitch McConnell to Halt Vote on Massive Tax Bill Until Alabamas Senator-Elect is Seated	2017-12-13	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Patty Murray	M001111	www.murray.senate.gov	legacy	In statement for initial conference committee meeting, Senator Murray takes reckless GOP tax bill to task, citing bill’s health care sabotage, economic burden on middle class families, and rushed, partisan process In follow-up letter to nonpartisan analysts, Senator Murray asks for clarity on GOP tax bill’s anti-middle class provisions and how it would affect families in Washington state and across the country ICYMI: “Senate Republicans have once again made it clear that their highest priority is handing more tax breaks to the wealthiest Americans and biggest corporations” The Columbian: “Murray, Cantwell on conference committee for tax legislation” (Washington, D.C.) – Citing the devastating impact of the Republican tax plan on middle class families in Washington state and around the country, today Senator Murray (D-WA), top Democrat on the Senate health committee and one of seven Senate Democrats appointed to the conference committee to negotiate the final legislation, urged Republicans on the committee to finally reverse course on their partisan proposal and begin working with Democrats on a plan to help working people. Additionally, Senator Murray called on Republican leaders to accept the will of the people in Alabama and halt their attempt to jam through a tax plan before Senator-elect Doug Jones is seated. In remarks submitted for the record at the conference committee’s first session, Senator Murray highlighted many concerns with the Republican tax plan, writing: “This has been a sham partisan process—a brazen partisan attempt to jam through legislation that would devastate our economy with as little scrutiny or debate as possible—and this dog-and-pony show of regular order today isn’t fooling anyone. Because let’s be very clear about what this tax plan would do—it’s pretty simple. The Republican tax plan would be a massive giveaway to the wealthiest Americans and biggest corporations. It would raise taxes on the middle class. It would increase health premiums for millions of patients. It would ope…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=93B97698-5875-41EF-9FB6-6A58C6E1A308	Citing Unknown Impacts on Students and Schools, Senators Murray and Cantwell Demand Delay of Net Neutrality Decision	2017-12-13	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Patty Murray	M001111	www.murray.senate.gov	legacy	FCC Chairman Pai is proposing to roll back net neutrality rules without any apparent consideration of impact on our nation’s students Schools in low-income and rural areas relying on high-speed internet to help kids learn could be hit especially hard by FCC decision Senators are concerned rolling back net neutrality could exacerbate education inequity and increase digital divide Senators: “From early childhood education through higher education and workforce training, students need access to high-speed internet in order to learn and make the most of their educational experience " (Washington, D.C.) – Today, Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Ranking Member of the Senate education committee, Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), and 20 U.S. Senators sent a letter to Federal Communications Commission Chairman Ajit Pai urging him to consider how a free, fair and open internet provides our nation’s students with opportunities to learn and succeed. Senators requested Chairman Pai delay the proposed vote to undo net neutrality until he specifically addresses the impacts on students and schools—specifically those in rural or low-income communities, as well as how it will address education equity and the digital divide. “By overturning the Commission’s current rules that preserve net neutrality and prevent internet service providers (ISPs) from blocking, throttling, or otherwise privileging lawful content, we fear that the Draft Order could harm our nation’s students and schools—especially those in rural and low-income communities,” the senators wrote. “We urge you to delay this monumental decision to dismantle net neutrality until you have fully examined the Draft Order’s impact on our nation’s students and their ability to learn.” Allowing internet service providers to limit access and increase costs could increase the digital divide for students in rural and low-income areas, where their only access to the internet may be at a resource-constrained school or a public library. This decision could also hinder teachers’ and st…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=B8FD83ED-2464-4C05-AADF-CB517608728A	Senator Murrays Statement on First Conference Committee Meeting	2017-12-13	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Patty Murray	M001111	www.murray.senate.gov	legacy	"Thank you Chairmen Brady and Hatch, Ranking Members Neal and Wyden, and all of my colleagues on this conference committee. "Honestly, I’m not even sure why we are here today. "This has been a sham partisan process—a brazen partisan attempt to jam through legislation that would devastate our economy with as little scrutiny or debate as possible—and this dog-and-pony show of regular order today isn’t fooling anyone. "Because let’s be very clear about what this tax plan would do—it’s pretty simple. "The Republican tax plan would be a massive giveaway to the wealthiest Americans and biggest corporations. "It would raise taxes on the middle class. "It would increase health premiums for millions of patients. "It would open up the pristine Arctic Refuge to drilling. "It would blast a massive hole in our deficit—and put Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security in grave danger. "And that’s just the start to the list of damages this horrific plan would do to families and the economy—I could go on and on. "But I want to spend just a minute focusing on one aspect of this Republican tax plan—the truly devastating health care change that would raise families’ premiums, cause millions of people to lose coverage, and create even more chaos and instability in health care markets. "Now, people have rejected every single Republican attempt to undermine their health care this year. So it’s worth asking—why are Republicans doing this again? "The answer is simple: Republicans wanted to spend the savings from taking away millions of people’s health care on tax cuts for those at the top. "Here is what will happen if this is jammed through, according to the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office: Premiums will be ten percent higher each year, thirteen million people will lose coverage, and markets will get even more unstable—which experts have said could cause some communities to lose coverage options. "And I want to be very clear: none of the bipartisan legislation being discussed would fix that. "The health care stab…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/kilmer-plan-securing-overtime-for-shipyard-workers-on-assignment-to-japan-signed-into-law	Kilmer Plan Securing Overtime for Shipyard Workers on Assignment to Japan Signed into Law	2017-12-12	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Derek Kilmer	K000381	kilmer.house.gov	legacy	12.12.17 Kilmer Plan Securing Overtime for Shipyard Workers on Assignment to Japan Signed into Law WASHINGTON, DC—Overtime for shipyard workers on assignment overseas will continue to be paid through September 30, 2019 thanks to an extension secured by Representative Derek Kilmer. The congressman worked to secure the extension as part of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which was signed into law today. “Our shipyard workers go all out for the country no matter where the job takes them. If they work overtime, they deserve to be paid overtime no matter where they’re clocked in,” Rep. Derek Kilmer said. “I have their back, and I’m glad the country does too.” The NDAA also included a 2.4 percent raise for military service members, one of the largest raises in eight years. The raise was included in the annual defense bill, HR 2810, which authorizes funding for the military in fiscal year 2018 The NDAA was signed into law today by President Donald Trump. The NDAA directs the Department of Defense on how to spend its money for the next fiscal year, but Congress still needs to pass an appropriations bill to fund these programs. Congress must pass that legislation before December 22nd, when the government’s current spending bill is set to expire. “I urge Congress to work together to pass a long-term budget and spending bill that funds the military and all of the other important things our government invests in before the end of the year,” Rep. Derek Kilmer said. In addition to the pay raise and Kilmer’s overtime provision, the bill authorizes, among other things, investments in 13 new Navy ships, and $6 billion to in additional funds to be used for a missile defense program that is designed to counter North Korea, and to fix the destroyers USS Fitzgerald and USS John McCain, which were damaged earlier this year when they collided with ships in the Pacific in two separate incidents. The collisions have been viewed by some as a consequence of the deep cuts to the military’s budget caused by …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://delbene.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2236	President Signs DelBene, Herrera Beutlers Fix for Child Abuse Survivors Into Law	2017-12-12	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Suzan DelBene	D000617	delbene.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. – President Trump today signed into law the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for 2018, which included part of Congresswomen Suzan DelBene (WA-01) and Jaime Herrera Beutler’s (WA-03) Child Abuse Accountability Enhancement Act (H.R. 1103), closing a legal loophole that denies justice for some survivors of child abuse. “Anyone who falls victim to physical, sexual or emotional violence — particularly children — deserves the opportunity to seek justice, regardless of who abused them,” DelBene said. “And while we took an important step in closing this loophole to ensure some justice for all survivors of these vile and horrific abuses, I will not stop fighting until convicted child abusers – no matter who they are or who they worked for – pay the full restitution owed.” “I can’t imagine the crippling trauma survivors of child abuse must endure. The least we can do for them is ensure the law is on their side and that they have the right to seek justice from their perpetrators,” said Herrera Beutler. “I recognize there is still tremendous work to be done in advocating for survivors, but having this bill signed into law today marks a significant milestone.” DelBene heard firsthand from survivor Pennie Saum, who as a child suffered abuses at the hands of her father, an Army veteran. Her father was convicted and sentenced to 17 years in prison, and Pennie and her brother were awarded a civil judgment for $5 million in damages. However, because their father’s primary source of income is military retirement pay, he was shielded from paying a cent of the restitution he owes his children. Because of DelBene’s efforts, now 25 percent of offenders’ wages can be garnished for restitution, but she will keep fighting until survivors of military child abuse receive full equality and justice under the law, just as other survivors abused by federal employees currently receive. “Words cannot express how happy I am to see part of the Child Abuse Accountability Enhancement Act become law. It’s been a long road…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://mcmorris.house.gov/mcmorris-rodgers-let-wish-friends-happy-hanukkah/	McMorris Rodgers: “Let me wish all my friends a most Happy Hanukkah!”	2017-12-12	2017	2017-12	Republican	House	WA	Cathy McMorris Rodgers	M001159	mcmorris.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. (December 12, 2017) – Eastern Washington Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) today released the following statement at the start of Hanukkah: “Let me wish all my friends a most Happy Hanukkah! “The Festival of Lights comes each year as winter’s dark days are closing in on us. Now is the time to gather family close, feast on latkes, play dreidel, and light the candles. “History teaches us that in 200 B.C.E. the Maccabees rebelled when King Antiochus banned Jewish worship in Jerusalem, the capital city where the holy Temple was built. This year, we can celebrate a little extra, to be living in a country that is unafraid to say out loud what two thousand years of history has been unable to erase– that Jerusalem was and remains Israel’s capital! “We’re blessed to live in a country where our religious freedom is constitutionally guaranteed; where we see menorahs alongside Christmas trees. That liberty, which so many sacrifice to preserve, is something we must never take for granted. “The miracle of Hanukkah came when the lamps in the Temple shone for eight days – but that wasn’t possible until the people had the courage and determination to stand up for their freedom. So today, when you light the Hanukkah candles, may you bask in the warm glow of celebration with your family, and also remember the courage of the Maccabees for the example they set for generations to come. “Happy Hanukkah from my family to yours.” # # #	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-bipartisan-colleagues-introduce-bill-to-further-understand-and-promote-development-of-artificial-intelligence-drive-economic-opportunity	Cantwell, Bipartisan Colleagues Introduce Bill to Further Understand and Promote Development of Artificial Intelligence, Drive Economic Opportunity	2017-12-12	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Maria Cantwell	C000127	www.cantwell.senate.gov	legacy	12.12.17 Cantwell, Bipartisan Colleagues Introduce Bill to Further Understand and Promote Development of Artificial Intelligence, Drive Economic Opportunity Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Todd Young (R-IN), and Ed Markey (D-MA), along with Representatives John K. Delaney (D-MD) and Pete Olson (R-TX), introduced first-of-its-kind legislation that would promote an enabling environment for the continued development of artificial intelligence (AI) technology. The forward-looking bill, known as the Fundamentally Understanding the Usability and Realistic Evolution of Artificial Intelligence Act of 2017 – or FUTURE of AI Act – establishes a federal advisory committee to examine and wrestle with the economic opportunities and impacts emerging AI technologies will have in many aspects of American life. AI technologies are evolving in capability and application at a rapid clip. Yet, the United States currently has no federal policy towards AI and no part of the federal government has ownership of the advancement of this technology. “We expect that artificial intelligence will be an incredibly transformative force for growth and productivity. We need to be ready for it,” said Senator Cantwell. “Artificial Intelligence has the ability to drastically boost our economy,” said Senator Young. “As Americans continue to interact with this technology every day, and as its capabilities expand, it’s important that we study and prepare for AI’s continued use in our society.” “While artificial intelligence holds the promise of providing goods and services more efficiently and effectively, increased automation has potentially broad negative impacts on our workforce and our privacy,” said Senator Edward J. Markey. “This bill serves as an important step in bringing together all stakeholders to better understand how this new technology will impact our lives. I thank Senators Cantwell and Young, as well as Representatives Delaney and Olson, for their partnership on this impor…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=1AF838BC-922C-44B2-BFD1-299D49A89896	Senator Murray's Statement on Alabama Election Results: "A Moment of Reflection for Republicans" as Voters "Loudly Reject" Moore, President Trump	2017-12-12	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Patty Murray	M001111	www.murray.senate.gov	legacy	"I’m pleased, and so relieved, to welcome Doug Jones to the Senate—where I believe he’ll have so much to contribute as we fight to grow the economy and increase opportunities for workers and middle class families across the country. "Tonight, people across Alabama stood up and loudly rejected one of the most troubling and unfit candidates for Senate that I can recall—and they just as loudly rejected efforts by President Trump and Republicans to put this person in office in spite of not only his deeply harmful and backwards beliefs, but the many women who have come forward with horrifying stories about how he assaulted them as children and teenagers. "I hope tonight's results are a moment of reflection for Republicans. A man who wasn’t allowed in a shopping mall because he was harassing young girls should not have even come close to representing families on the Senate floor. It’s well past time for Republicans to start listening to women across the country and consider who they are standing with and who they are willing to support in the name of partisan politics and power. "And finally, I am hoping that Republican leaders accept the will of the people of Alabama and halt their attempt to jam through massive tax cuts for the rich until Senator-elect Jones is seated."	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=A5B47E73-1171-42DE-A978-DF2086BB563A	In Rallying Call to Advocates, Senator Murray Highlights Urgent Need for Critical Investments in Child Care, Early Learning	2017-12-12	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Patty Murray	M001111	www.murray.senate.gov	legacy	On the heels of new national report on rising child care costs, Senator Murray highlights her bill that would improve access to high-quality, affordable child care and early learning New Report: Child care has become more unaffordable in the past year; represents one of the most significant budget items for families. ICYMI: Senator Murray introduces bold, comprehensive child care and early learning bill to bring down costs of child care in Washington state and across the country Seattle Times: “Sen. Patty Murray wants to fix what experts call ‘enormous inequalities’ in child care” (Washington, D.C.) – Today, Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), top Democrat on the Senate education committee, underlined the urgent need for increased investments in child care and early learning programs for low-income and middle class families, following the release of a new report highlighting the national trend of rising costs for child care. According to the new report from Child Care Aware® of America, child care has become more unaffordable in the past year, forcing many parents to pay more than they can afford for child care. In Washington state, the report found that single parents pay over half of their income for infant center care and over 90 percent of their income for center care for two children; the report also found that the annual cost of infant care in a center in Washington state was $13,742, more than the cost of tuition and fees at an in-state public college. Speaking to hundreds of child care and early learning advocates during a briefing on the new report, Senator Murray outlined the current child care crisis in Washington state and nationwide, and urged participants to continue pushing for increased federal investments to make child care more affordable and higher quality for working families. In her remarks, Senator Murray also provided an update on her bill, the Child Care for Working Families Act, that would help working families afford child care, expand access to high-quality preschool for low-income and …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=C0E2A6E5-240E-45D8-8090-A564FD78CF87	Citing Trump Administrations Health Care Sabotage, Senator Murray Calls for Extended Open Enrollment Period	2017-12-12	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Patty Murray	M001111	www.murray.senate.gov	legacy	Senator Murray urges HHS, CMS to allow consumers to buy health care through January 2018 Request from Senator Murray follows months of sabotage by the Trump Administration, record level of sign-ups early in the enrollment period ICYMI: As millions of people shop for health coverage, Senator Murray leads bipartisan group of senators in calling for vote on Murray-Alexander health care bill; urges Republican leaders to “put patients over politics” (Washington, D.C.) – Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), top Democrat on the Senate health committee, today sent a letter to Acting Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Eric Hargan and Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Administrator Seema Verma urging the Trump Administration to extend open enrollment for the individual insurance market from December 15 until January 31, 2018 to give patients and families in Washington state and nationwide more time to purchase health insurance. Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR), the ranking member on the Senate Finance Committee, joined Senator Murray in the letter. “The Administration’s decision to depart from years of agency policy by ending open enrollment on December 15th is compounded by the many other efforts by this administration to destabilize the insurance market, making it likely that many consumers miss this deadline and forgo insurance next year—all despite clear indications that consumers are highly interested in seeking coverage for 2018,” the senators wrote. “We urge you to immediately extend open enrollment and to engage in concerted outreach and assistance efforts that help potential consumers obtain coverage.” Senator Murray has repeatedly urged the Trump Administration to stop sabotaging families’ health care and instead work to improve care, bring down costs, and return stability to the markets. By shortening the open enrollment period, drastically cutting consumer outreach and navigator funding, and ending cost-sharing reduction (CSR) payments, among other actions, the Trump Administr…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/reps-kilmer-kustoff-pass-bill-to-protect-religious-institutions	Reps. Kilmer, Kustoff Pass Bill to Protect Religious Institutions	2017-12-11	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Derek Kilmer	K000381	kilmer.house.gov	legacy	12.11.17 Reps. Kilmer, Kustoff Pass Bill to Protect Religious Institutions Washington, D.C. – U.S. Representatives Derek Kilmer (D-WA) and David Kustoff (R-TN) today applauded House passage of their bill, the Protecting Religiously Affiliated Institutions Act of 2017. This strong bipartisan legislation will increase the federal penalties for bomb threats and other credible threats of violence against religious institutions. Congressman Derek Kilmer (D-WA): “Across our country, too many people have been subjected to hate, violence and threats because of the religion they practice. People who have come to a religious community center to take a class, exercise or support their neighbors have faced bomb threats and violence. With this bill, our government is saying with one voice: ‘Enough is enough.’” Congressman David Kustoff (R-TN): “The dramatic rise in threats against religious institutions is deeply disturbing and makes it clear that existing federal laws do not suitably deter these acts of hate. We must stand united against acts of hate and protect the rights of all Americans to worship freely and without fear. I am proud that our bipartisan bill today passed in the House. I look forward to the Senate’s consideration, so we can send this important legislation to President Trump’s desk.” Judiciary Committee Chairman Bob Goodlatte (R-VA): “Freedom in the exercise of religion is a fundamental right that our founding fathers chose to place as the first recognized right in our Bill of Rights. It is as important to protect these rights today. Sadly, we have witnessed many threats and acts of violence against religious institutions and centers and we must ensure our laws appropriately punish those seeking to intimidate people of faith. The Protecting Religiously Affiliated Institutions Act strengthens prosecutorial tools to deter acts of hate and violence toward religious institutions so that freedom of religion continues to flourish in America. I thank Congressman Kustoff for his hard work on this biparti…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://mcmorris.house.gov/mcmorris-rodgers-introduces-ensuring-patient-access-healthcare-records-act/	McMorris Rodgers Introduces Ensuring Patient Access to Healthcare Records Act	2017-12-11	2017	2017-12	Republican	House	WA	Cathy McMorris Rodgers	M001159	mcmorris.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. (December 11, 2017) – Today, Eastern Washington Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) introduced the bipartisan Ensuring Patient Access to Healthcare Records Act, which gives medical record clearinghouses the ability to provide patients with their own comprehensive healthcare records, and allows them to analyze claims data for the good of public health. “Even in the age of technology, it can be difficult for patients to obtain their comprehensive health records. Whether it’s because of a move to a new state, switching providers, an unexpected visit to the emergency room, or a new doctor, patients must track down their own records from numerous different sources based on what they can or cannot remember,” said McMorris Rodgers. “It shouldn’t be this burdensome. Our bill gives patients the ability to see a snapshot of their health records at just a simple request, allowing them to make better, more informed healthcare decisions in a timely manner.” NOTE: Each year, healthcare clearinghouses process hundreds of millions of transactions safely and securely from more than 5,000 hospitals, 900,000 doctors, 66,000 pharmacies and 20,000 labs across the country. These records include information about the provider, the diagnosis, and the treatment for each episode of care. Today, clearinghouses have the capability to link this data and build longitudinal health records to provide patients with a comprehensive health record. Clearinghouses can also analyze this data to provide real-world solutions to address important public policy goals through tracking patient outcomes and broad-based analysis of readmissions, comorbidities, and adverse outcomes across the entire continuum of service providers; near real-time tracking of significant disease outbreaks or epidemics; and improving and allowing for greater access to new drugs and therapies. Regrettably, clearinghouses are currently unable to offer this transformative service to patients and other stakeholders due to the administration’s rules implemen…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns-and-op-eds/column-jerusalem-capital-israel	COLUMN: Jerusalem, Capital of Israel	2017-12-11	2017	2017-12	Republican	House	WA	Dan Newhouse	N000189	newhouse.house.gov	legacy	By the rivers of Babylonwe sat and wept when we remembered Zion.If I forget you, O Jerusalem, let my right hand forgetits skill! The words of the psalmist in Psalm 137 evoke the longing that the Jewish people felt during their captivity in Babylon for the ancient city of Jerusalem, the site of the original Temple of Solomon. The historic and spiritual link between Jerusalem and Israel harkens back thousands of years to biblical times. It is the location of the Western Wall, the last remnant of the Second Temple and the holiest site in Judaism. Last week, President Trump announced that his administration would fulfill his promise to relocate the U.S. embassy in Israel from modern Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, officially acknowledging that the capital of our closest Middle East ally is indeed the ancient city. The Israeli legislature, supreme court, and executive branch are based in Jerusalem. The Presidents announced shift would begin to treat Israel the way we treat every other sovereign nation in relation to its official seat of government. President Trumps announcement seems at first glance to be a momentous step, but in reality it complies with longstanding U.S. foreign policy. Since 1995, when the Jerusalem Embassy Act passed on bipartisan votes of 93-5 in the Senate and 374-37 in the House, U.S. law has provided for the relocation of the U.S. Embassy in Israel to Jerusalem. Subsequent presidents of both parties have chosen to request waivers for the embassys relocation. President Trump has chosen to end that practice and finally implement this over-20-year-old law. The fulfilment of the longstanding U.S. promise to move the U.S. embassy to Jerusalem should not be used to negatively impact the peace process between Israelis and Palestinians. In no version of a peace agreement has Jerusalem not been recognized as Israels capital, so this recognition should not be considered a concession, nor should it in any way be considered a deal breaker in the peace process. The American people remember and respect Israels histor…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://delbene.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2235	Cantwell, DelBene to FCC Chairman: Abandon Your Ill-Conceived & Rash Plan to Dismantle the Strong and Robust Net Neutrality Rules	2017-12-09	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Suzan DelBene	D000617	delbene.house.gov	legacy	SEATTLE – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (WA-01) sent a letter to Federal Communications Commissioner Ajit Pai urging him to do his job and drop his misguided attempt at repealing net neutrality rules. “Undoing the existing strong net neutrality rules will harm our economy and is the exact opposite of the FCC’s mission to protect the public interest and promote access to networks,” said Sen. Cantwell and Rep. DelBene. “The future of the internet is at risk. The FCC’s proper stewardship of our communications networks is more important than ever for continued job growth stemming from the booming internet economy.” Sen. Cantwell and Rep. DelBene are particularly concerned about how Washington’s economy will be affected if Pai follows through on his goals to shackle the free and open internet. A quarter of a million jobs and 13 percent of the state’s economy are dependent on a robust, vibrant Internet economy. More than 400,000 Washingtonians, recognizing the importance of net neutrality to Washington state’s economy, have filed comments with the FCC concerning the plan. “Weakening the internet economy will be particularly harmful to the economy of Washington state. On behalf of all Washingtonians and consumers and innovators that rely on toll free access to a free and open internet, we strongly urge you to make the right decision and stand up for the consumers you committed to protect when you took your oath of office,” the members of Congress continued. Sen. Cantwell and Rep. DelBene issued their appeal with tech leaders at Seattle’s Galvanize, a Seattle coworking space featuring a mix of entrepreneurs, programmers, data scientists, and others who thrive on the free and open internet. Net neutrality protections make sure we have an open and free internet and prohibit cable companies and service providers from slowing down or blocking content, applications or websites. The full letter to Chairman Pai is below: Dear Chairman Pai: We write to urge you to abandon you…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-delbene-to-fcc-chairman-abandon-your-ill-conceived-and-rash-plan-to-dismantle-the-strong-and-robust-net-neutrality-rules-	Cantwell, DelBene to FCC Chairman: “Abandon Your Ill-Conceived & Rash Plan to Dismantle the Strong and Robust Net Neutrality Rules”	2017-12-09	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Maria Cantwell	C000127	www.cantwell.senate.gov	legacy	12.09.17 Cantwell, DelBene to FCC Chairman: “Abandon Your Ill-Conceived & Rash Plan to Dismantle the Strong and Robust Net Neutrality Rules” In Seattle, Cantwell and DelBene announce their latest push to save the free and open internet with tech leaders Seattle, WA – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (WA-01) sent a letter to Federal Communications Commissioner Ajit Pai urging him to do his job and drop his misguided attempt at repealing net neutrality rules. “Undoing the existing strong net neutrality rules will harm our economy and is the exact opposite of the FCC’s mission to protect the public interest and promote access to networks,” said Sen. Cantwell and Rep. DelBene. “The future of the internet is at risk. The FCC’s proper stewardship of our communications networks is more important than ever for continued job growth stemming from the booming internet economy.” Sen. Cantwell and Rep. DelBene are particularly concerned about how Washington’s economy will be affected if Pai follows through on his goals to shackle the free and open internet. A quarter of a million jobs and 13% of the state’s economy are dependent on a robust, vibrant Internet economy. Over 400,000 Washingtonians, recognizing the importance of net neutrality to Washington state’s economy, have filed comments with the FCC concerning the plan. “Weakening the internet economy will be particularly harmful to the economy of Washington state. On behalf of all Washingtonians and consumers and innovators that rely on toll free access to a free and open internet, we strongly urge you to make the right decision and stand up for the consumers you committed to protect when you took your oath of office,” the members of Congress continued. Sen. Cantwell and Rep. DelBene issued their appeal with tech leaders at Seattle’s Galvanize, a Seattle coworking space featuring a mix o…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/kilmer-washington-national-guard-and-port-angeles-leaders-applaud-faas-decision-to-fully-fund-vital-port-angeles-runway-	Kilmer, Washington National Guard and Port Angeles Leaders Applaud FAA’s Decision to Fully Fund Vital Port Angeles Runway	2017-12-08	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Derek Kilmer	K000381	kilmer.house.gov	legacy	12.08.17 Kilmer, Washington National Guard and Port Angeles Leaders Applaud FAA’s Decision to Fully Fund Vital Port Angeles Runway PORT ANGELES, Wash.— After listening to the concerns of Representative Derek Kilmer (D-WA), the state’s emergency managers, and the Port of Port Angeles’s Commissioners, the Federal Aviation Administration has issued a final decision to continue funding to maintain the current runway at the William R. Fairchild International Airport. The FAA had previously considered reducing this funding, which would have left the Port with two bad options: either reduce the airport’s 5,000-foot runway to 3,850 feet, or pay the bill to maintain the other 1,150 feet using only local funds, a potentially prohibitively-expensive cost. “In rural regions like ours, peace of mind comes by knowing that the government has the infrastructure to get help to us quickly in the event of a disaster. I applaud the FAA for doing the right thing and funding the full runway in Port Angeles,” Rep. Derek Kilmer said. “Keeping the runway fully-funded will not only give emergency responders a vital lifeline to our region in an emergency, but also drive economic growth that will sustain skilled jobs in our region.” Port Angeles officials and Rep. Kilmer worked with leaders of the state’s emergency response community to explain to the FAA the unique importance of Fairchild’s runway for both medical emergencies and emergency response. The FAA considered reducing the runway length it was willing to fund using the Airport Improvement Program. The AIP funds the planning and development of public-use airports. According to the Washington Emergency Plan and Federal Emergency Management Agency, Fairchild International Airport is a piece of critical infrastructure vital to the government’s response to wildfires and earthquakes. Port Commission President Colleen McAleer said: “The Port of Port Angeles appreciates the FAA’s decision and the efforts of Congressman Kilmer, who listened to the community and conveyed its co…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://mcmorris.house.gov/mcmorris-rodgers-statement-renegotiation-columbia-river-treaty/	McMorris Rodgers Statement on Renegotiation of the Columbia River Treaty	2017-12-08	2017	2017-12	Republican	House	WA	Cathy McMorris Rodgers	M001159	mcmorris.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. (December 8, 2017) – Yesterday evening, the Department of State announced its intentions to move into renegotiations of the Columbia River Treaty beginning in early 2018. Today, Eastern Washington Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) released the following statement in response: “The Columbia River Treaty and the relationship between the U.S. and Canada play an indispensable role in the livelihoods of those in the Pacific Northwest,” said McMorris Rodgers. “But we must move forward with renegotiations to ensure this agreement remains mutually-beneficial. I’ve had a number of conversations with Secretary Tillerson to urge the State Department to renegotiate, and I’m pleased to see that effort move forward. By addressing the ‘Canadian Entitlement’ and other issues we can form a treaty that will serve both nation’s for generations to come.” NOTE: The Congresswoman has played a major role in urging the past two administrations to reopen the conversation on the Columbia River Treaty. In February of 2016, her and Rep. Peter DeFazio (D-OR), as Co-Chairs of the Northwest Energy Caucus, wrote a letter to President Obama in which they said, “The agreement between Canada and the United States serves as a framework for the mutual benefit of both countries, providing low-cost hydropower generation, flood control, and economic growth.” In October of this year, the Congresswoman led a letter with a bipartisan group of Pacific Northwest Representatives to Ambassador David MacNaughton to urge renegotiation. The letter states, “The 1964 treaty has been in place for fifty-three years and has surpassed its balance. Specifically, there is an imbalance of benefits between our two nations in regards to the “Canadian Entitlement”, which requires Pacific Northwest electricity consumers to pay Canada for downstream power benefits. It is estimated that our constituents overpay this entitlement by ten times the reciprocal benefit.” Earlier this year, the Congresswoman also spoke directly to Secretary of State Rex Ti…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=079566E6-A206-4B0E-985C-6FCF13FD602D	Ahead of the Start of Negotiations on Republican Tax Plan, Senators Murray and Cantwell Demand Open & Transparent Process	2017-12-08	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Patty Murray	M001111	www.murray.senate.gov	legacy	In new letter, signed by the seven Senate Democrats named to conference committee, Senators demand at least three public meetings, the opportunity to offer amendments, & complete expert analysis on new bill’s economic impact before conference report is finalized Neither the House Ways and Means Committee nor the Senate Finance Committee held any public hearings regarding the bills that were reported out or debated in their respective chambers – Senate Dems urge GOP to provide more transparency as House & Senate debate final bill Senate Dems: a bill that would have such an enormous impact on the economy deserves complete analysis, public debate, & an open process (Washington, D.C.) – In a new letter, Senators Patty Murray (D-WA), the top Democrat on the Senate health committee, and Maria Cantwell (D-WA), the top Democrat on the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee and a senior member of the Senate Finance Committee, today joined Senate Democrats who will serve as conferees on the committee to negotiate the GOP’s tax bill to urge their fellow Republican conferees to conduct the conference in an open and transparent manner. The Senators said transparency has been missing from the legislative process thus far, as neither the House Ways and Means Committee nor the Senate Finance Committee have held any public hearings regarding the bills that were ultimately reported out and debated in their respective chambers. The Senators said a bill that would have such an enormous impact on the American economy deserves to see the light of day. The Senators therefore demanded the conference conduct at least three open public meetings, that all members on the committee be given a full opportunity to offer amendments and to secure roll call votes on all amendments, and that a final conference report, including analyses from tax experts at the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) and the Joint Committee on Taxation (JCT), be approved and made public. In addition to Senators Murray and Cantwell, the Democrat…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=382A8C81-35FC-465F-8A7D-E4753BD4D559	Senator Murrays Statement on Key Announcement on Columbia River Treaty Negotiations	2017-12-08	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Patty Murray	M001111	www.murray.senate.gov	legacy	(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) released the following statement in response to news that the United States and Canada will begin negotiations in early 2018 to modernize the Columbia River Treaty. “The Columbia River Treaty is of immense importance to the economy, environment, and culture of Washington state and the Pacific Northwest. It is clear the Columbia River Treaty in its current form needs to be updated to meet the modern-day issues facing the Columbia River Basin, the region, and the nation. The outcome of pending negotiations will have major impacts far into the future for families in my home state and beyond. I welcome the news that the United States and Canada will begin negotiations, and I support these critical talks moving forward in an efficient, constructive manner that benefits every party involved.“ To read more about the Columbia River Treaty, please click here.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=C5D663A9-01F2-46E0-976C-0EE22E890DAE	VETERANS: In New Letter, Senator Murray Urges VA Secretary to Immediately Clarify Future of Homeless Veteran Program	2017-12-08	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Patty Murray	M001111	www.murray.senate.gov	legacy	On December 1st, VA reportedly announced plans to move forward with repurposing essential funds for HUD-VASH program Prior to this, a bipartisan group of senators had urged VA not to take this step Senator Murray: By removing these services, VA would endanger “one of the best tools it has in the fight to end veteran homelessness” Senator Murray urges course correction and increased transparency; in absence of either, Senator Murray to seek to restrict VA’s authority to reprogram funding (Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), a senior member of both the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee and the Senate Appropriations Committee, urged Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary David Shulkin to immediately clarify his recent statement regarding plans to strip away essential funds for supportive services for the HUD-VA Supportive Housing Program. Known as HUD-VASH, the program helps veterans across the country by providing housing vouchers that combine rental assistance from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) with case management and clinical services provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Since 2008, when Senator Murray helped restart HUD-VASH, the program has helped more than 100,000 homeless veterans. “The case management provided by VA is essential to assisting these veterans in navigating the complex housing market and coordinating access to clinical care and employment assistance,” Senator Murray wrote in the letter. “Without the invaluable support provided by VA case managers, many veterans may find themselves forced to sleep on the streets. By removing these services, the Department would gut the capacity and efficacy of one of the best tools it has in the fight to end veteran homelessness.” Senator Murray continued: “If the Department does not immediately fulfill the requests of that letter and begin operating with more transparency, I will seek dramatic restrictions on the authority Congress grants the Department to reprogram its funding i…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://herrerabeutler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=399084	Jaime Herrera Beutler Requests Relief for Pacific County Residents Who Will Lose Accessible Health Care Options in 2018	2017-12-07	2017	2017-12	Republican	House	WA	Jaime Herrera Beutler	H001056	herrerabeutler.house.gov	legacy	U.S. Representative Jaime Herrera Beutler urged Washington State Insurance Commissioner Mike Kreidler this week to take immediate action to remedy the looming health care crisis many residents of Pacific County are facing due to a reduction in health care coverage. share: f t U.S. Representative Jaime Herrera Beutler urged Washington State Insurance Commissioner Mike Kreidler this week to take immediate action to remedy the looming health care crisis many residents of Pacific County are facing due to a reduction in health care coverage. Residents of rural Pacific County currently enrolled in Premera insurance plans – plans approved by the commissioner’s office – will no longer be able to access health care providers across the river in Oregon beginning January 1. Instead of a roughly 30-minute drive, they will have to travel nearly one and a half hours to receive critical health care from cardiologists, pediatricians, psychologists, or to deliver a baby. In a letter sent to the commissioner yesterday, Jaime expressed her concern for residents in rural counties and requested the commissioner work with health insurance companies to help individuals continue to have access to timely and adequate health care in 2019. “It’s worth noting that these plans – and the restricted networks they now offer – were filed with your office in the spring of 2016,” Jaime wrote in her letter. “Any effort to shift the blame for these changes to the new presidential administration or congressional efforts to replace the Affordable Care Act (ACA) would not reflect the facts.” The full text of the letter follows and a PDF version is available here. Dear Commissioner Kreidler, I am writing today to express my deep concern over your approval of insurance plans that will require many residents of rural Pacific County to travel more than an hour and a half one-way to access essential services like maternity care, or see specialists such as pediatricians, ca…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://herrerabeutler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=399085	Reps. Herrera Beutler and DeFazio Applaud Unanimous ITC Vote to Protect U.S. Softwood Lumber Market	2017-12-07	2017	2017-12	Republican	House	WA	Jaime Herrera Beutler	H001056	herrerabeutler.house.gov	legacy	Reps. Peter DeFazio (OR-04) and Jaime Herrera Beutler (WA-03) today applauded the U.S. International Trade Commission’s (ITC) final 4-0 vote confirming that the U.S. softwood lumber industry is materially injured by unfairly subsidized Canadian imports. share: f t Reps. Peter DeFazio (OR-04) and Jaime Herrera Beutler (WA-03) today applauded the U.S. International Trade Commission’s (ITC) final 4-0 vote confirming that the U.S. softwood lumber industry is materially injured by unfairly subsidized Canadian imports. “Today’s announcement by the ITC is a clear sign that the U.S. is committed to protecting our timber jobs on the international stage,” said Reps. DeFazio and Herrera Beutler. “The U.S. has repeatedly tried to settle this issue with Canada at the negotiating table, but once Canada refused to meet our reasonable demands, this was the only path available to protect U.S. interests. We’re grateful to the Department of Commerce for their thorough investigation into this matter and the ITC’s subsequent affirmative ruling, and will continue to work together to protect manufacturing jobs in the Pacific Northwest and throughout the United States.” Because of the difference in timber pricing and market structures between the two nations—most of the United States’ timberlands are privately owned, while the majority of Canadian timberlands are owned by the provincial government —the two nations have a long-standing series of trade agreements, or Softwood Lumber Agreements (SLA) between them. The United States and Canada have been trying to negotiate a new Softwood Lumber Agreement, but those talks fell through last month. Today’s ruling will activate final antidumping and countervailing duties on Canadian softwood lumber imports as determined by the Department of Commerce earlier this year. The application of these duties will provide much-needed relief to Oregon and Washington mills. In November, the U.S. Department of Commerce announced its fina…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://reichert.house.gov/press-release/reichert-statement-concealed-carry-reciprocity-act-vote	Reichert Statement on Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act Vote	2017-12-07	2017	2017-12	Republican	House	WA	Dave Reichert	R000578	reichert.house.gov	legacy	Washington, DC - Yesterday, the U.S. House of Representatives voted on H.R. 38, the Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act of 2017. Representative Dave Reichert (R-WA) released the following statement following the vote: “As the former Sheriff of King County and law enforcement officer for 33 years, I understand the importance of keeping guns out of the hands of those who seek to do harm. I voted to maintain Second Amendment rights and make critical improvements to our national background check system,” Rep. Reichert said. “Now, after passing a federal background check and meeting a state’s legal requirements for possessing a firearm, an individual will be able to carry their firearm in any state. This bill also makes much needed improvements to the FBI’s background check system through increased accountability with federal agencies, to ensure no individuals slip through the cracks.” Rep. Reichert has fought continuously throughout his career, from his time in law enforcement and now as a Member of Congress, to crack down on gun and gang-related violence, including supporting programs such as Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) and the Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) Hiring program. These programs are often targeted for elimination or funding cuts during the appropriations process. Rep. Reichert has championed the Project Safe Neighborhoods program, a federal grant program to combat gang violence and gun-related crimes. In September, the House passed his amendment to increase funding for this program to $20 million for fiscal year 2018. In addition, the Department of Justice (DOJ) recently announced that PSN will be the centerpiece of their initiative to combat violent crime and gun violence. To support the COPS Hiring Program, as co-chair of the Law Enforcement Caucus, Rep. Reichert, along with his co-chair, Rep. Bill Pascrell (D-NJ), sent a bipartisan letter to President Trump outlining the importance of the program. Rep. Reichert and Rep. Pascrell also sent a bipartisan letter to the Appropriations Committee…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-introduces-solution-to-shield-wa-fishermen-from-unnecessary-costs-delays	Cantwell Introduces Solution to Shield WA Fishermen from Unnecessary Costs, Delays	2017-12-07	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Maria Cantwell	C000127	www.cantwell.senate.gov	legacy	12.07.17 Cantwell Introduces Solution to Shield WA Fishermen from Unnecessary Costs, Delays Cantwell’s legislation provides regulatory relief for smaller vessels like crab and salmon boats WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) introduced the Fishing and Small Vessel Relief Act (S.2194) to extend protections for fishermen and small vessel owners from adhering to costly requirements that do not tangibly protect or improve water quality for vessels of their size. An EPA study found that incidental discharges from these small vessels do not generate a significant threat to our waters. The bill will extend a current moratorium that exempts fishing vessels and vessels under 79 feet from incidental discharge permitting requirements mandated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). These vessels have been continuously exempt since 2008 under a temporary moratorium as they do not pose a serious environmental risk. “Fishermen are key drivers of Washington state’s growing economy. We need their boats out fishing, not bogged down by regulations meant for large vessels like oil tankers,” said Cantwell. Cantwell’s science-based legislation brings stability to small vessel owners who have been at unease due to an impending December 18th expiration of the current moratorium. More than 115,000 small vessels nation-wide would receive relief under the Cantwell legislation. Commercial fishing boats make up the bulk of the protected vessels, but many research vessels, tour boats, tugboats, towboats, and offshore supply boats would also qualify. The EPA’s vessel incidental discharge permitting requirements are intended to prevent water pollution and the spread of invasive species through release of bilge water, ballast, and other discharges. These regulations are critical to safeguard the environment from large vessels, who are more likely to carry pollutants and run a greate…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-cantwell-murray-join-bipartisan-group-urging-extension-of-secure-rural-schools-program-	Senators Cantwell, Murray Join Bipartisan Group Urging Extension of Secure Rural Schools Program	2017-12-07	2017	2017-12	Democrat	House	WA	Maria Cantwell	C000127	www.cantwell.senate.gov	legacy	12.07.17 Senators Cantwell, Murray Join Bipartisan Group Urging Extension of Secure Rural Schools Program WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), the top Democrat on the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, and U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) joined a bipartisan group of 32 senators in sending a letter to Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) and Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), urging them to include a reauthorization of the Secure Rural Schools (SRS) Program in any end-of-year legislation. SRS supports public schools, public roads, forest health projects, emergency services, and many other essential county services for more than 775 counties across the country. The SRS program expired on September 30, 2015, and it has not been reauthorized for FY16 or beyond. Forest counties and schools received their last authorized SRS payment in 2016. Without SRS, existing revenue-sharing payments are not sufficient to support critical services these counties must provide. “The SRS program continues to be a critical safety-net for forest counties as we work to diversify rural economies, improve forest management and forest health, strengthen historic forest revenue sharing with local governments, and ensure that our forests provide a range of values such as clean water, jobs, and wood fiber for local economies,” Senators Cantwell and Murray wrote. “In the interest of working together in a bipartisan way to support local rural communities, we ask that you include a reauthorization of Secure Rural Schools in any end-of-the-year legislation. We appreciate your assistance with this matter.” In October, Senators Cantwell and Murray pushed for a two-year reauthorization of SRS. In 2016, under SRS, Forest Service payments to Washington counties totaled more than $17.3 million. This year, without SRS funding in place, Forest Service payments to Washington counties have totaled just $2.3 million. In addition to Senators Cantwell and Murray, senators who signed t…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z

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Press releases

2,009 rows where state = "WA" and year = 2017 sorted by date descending

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