press: releases: 1,625 rows where state = "WA" and year = 2018 sorted by date descending

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1,625 rows where state = "WA" and year = 2018 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://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns-and-op-eds/end-old-congress-beginning-new-year	COLUMN: End of Old Congress, Beginning of New Year	2018-12-31	2018	2018-12	Republican	House	WA	Dan Newhouse	N000189	newhouse.house.gov	legacy	As 2018 comes to a close, so does the 115th Congress. It is an honor to represent the diverse interests of the Fourth Congressional District, and I am especially proud of the accomplishments we achieved that will improve the quality of life in Central Washington. One year after Congress passed historic tax relief for American taxpayers, we are seeing results in the form of higher paychecks, improved employee benefits, and growing small businesses. We are making it easier for Americans to save for their futures and encouraging innovation. I have heard stories from people across the Fourth District who are using their tax cuts and extra take-home pay to reinvest in our local communities. With the lowest unemployment rate in decades and hundreds of thousands of jobs being created each month, our country has a bright economic future. One of the biggest economic drivers in our state is agriculture. As a farmer, I know first-hand the difficulties farmers and ranchers face in Central Washington, from scarce water resources and labor shortages to international trade and crop insurance. While there is still a lot of work left to be done, I have worked diligently with my colleagues and the Trump Administration to address each of these issues. I am pleased that Congress delivered on one of the most important pieces of agricultural legislation: the Farm Bill. The Farm Bill is only reauthorized every five years, but I am proud to have demonstrated its importance to Washington's unique agriculture industry by bringing numerous influential policymakers to meet with Central Washington farmers, including U.S. Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue, House Agriculture Committee Chairman Mike Conaway, Agriculture Subcommittee on Research Chairman Rodney Davis, and U.S. Agriculture Undersecretary Bill Northey. This bill will give farmers and ranchers the certainty they deserve and provide a safety net for the men and women in Washington state and across the country who produce the food that feeds America and the world. Ensuring food secu…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://dennyheck.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/questions-and-answers-about-the-impact-of-a-partial-government-shutdown	Questions and Answers about the Impact of a Partial Government Shutdown	2018-12-28	2018	2018-12	Democrat	House	WA	Denny Heck	H001064	dennyheck.house.gov	legacy	Will my mail still arrive during the shutdown? Yes. The U.S. Postal Service is not affected by a government shutdown. The U.S. Postal Service is an independent entity that is funded through the sale of its products and services, and not by tax dollars. Will I continue to receive my Social Security checks? Yes. During a government shutdown, recipients continue to receive their Social Security checks. Will Medicare and Medicaid be interrupted? No. The operations of Medicare and Medicaid will operate normally during the shutdown. Can I get taxpayer assistance from IRS personnel during the shutdown? It will likely be difficult. If the Trump Shutdown goes into January, it will have a significant impact on the IRS. While the shutdown continues, 90 percent of the IRS staff is furloughed. IRS's tax filing season is January-April. Beginning in January, some Americans will start thinking about filing their 2018 taxes, due April 15, 2019. This will be the first year when Americans are filing their taxes under the new GOP tax law, and many will have numerous questions. If the Trump Shutdown continues, the limited IRS staff will be unable to keep up with the questions coming in from taxpayers using the IRS customer service hotline. Can I get a passport during the shutdown? Perhaps, with it depending on where you live. The U.S. Passport Agency remains open during the shutdown and continues to issue passports. However, depending on where you live, the State Department could curtail issuing passports where those passport services are offered in buildings run by another agency that is shut down. Will I be able to continue visiting the national parks during the shutdown? The Trump Administration claims that the vast majority of national parks are open during the shutdown (on the grounds that barriers have not been put up at the parks to prevent entry.) However, the fact is that there are no services for visitors to National Park Service sites during the shutdown. Services such as restrooms, visitors' centers…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://dennyheck.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/its-about-time-editorial	It's about time (Editorial)	2018-12-27	2018	2018-12	Democrat	House	WA	Denny Heck	H001064	dennyheck.house.gov	legacy	With the Chinese American WWII Veteran Congressional Gold Medal Act now being signed into law, let freedom ring for all. This is a wonderful holiday gift to the Chinese American community. The president's signature on this bill on Dec. 20 reaffirms this administration's recognition of the contributions that people of color make in protecting our nation. They put their lives on the line, pledging loyalty to our country, and proving that we are all patriots. The passing and signing into law of this act honorably recognizes the Chinese Americans who bravely served our country. Few people know that more than 18,000 Chinese and Chinese Americans served in the U.S. Armed Forces during WWII. They served in every capacity within the armed forces, even though the 1882 Chinese Exclusion Act was still in force for much of the war. Many earned citations for their heroism and honorable duty to our nation. Up until now, they were the only U.S. minority group that had not been recognized for their service. We have lost many of these patriots in the years since the end of WWII. With precious few still alive, it's about time that those still with us are getting honored and recognized for their selflessness and sacrifice. Ted Lieu (D-CA) introduced the bill, along with Ed Royce (R-CA) in the U.S. House of Representatives. Sens. Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), and Thad Cochran (R-MS) introduced it in the Senate. Here are the Washington senators and congressmen who cosponsored the bill: Sen. Maria Cantwell Sen. Patty Murray Rep. Suzan DelBene Rep. Denny Heck Rep. Jaime Herrera Beutler Rep. Pramila Jayapal Rep. Derek Kilmer Rep. Rick Larsen Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers Rep. Dan Newhouse Rep. Dave Reichert Rep. Adam Smith	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns-and-op-eds/president-trump-signs-criminal-justice-reform-law	COLUMN: President Trump Signs Criminal Justice Reform into Law	2018-12-24	2018	2018-12	Republican	House	WA	Dan Newhouse	N000189	newhouse.house.gov	legacy	Last week, Congress acted, and President Trump signed into law major criminal justice reform, the First Step Act. As the national crime rate declines, this legislation makes changes to reduce recidivism among federal prisoners, increase public safety, and save taxpayer dollars. Earlier this year, President Trump said, I'm thrilled to announce my support for this bipartisan bill that will make our communities safer and give former inmates a second chance at life after they have served their time.And we're all better off when former inmates can receive and reenter society as law-abiding, productive citizens.And thanks to our booming economy, they now have a chance at more opportunities than they've ever had before. The President continued: the bill includes reasonable sentencing reforms while keeping dangerous and violent criminals off our streets. President Trump pointed out the example of Alice Marie Johnson, a 63-year old grandmother who was sentenced to life in prison without eligibility for parole for a first-time, non-violent drug offense. Johnson has accepted responsibility for her crime and has already served 21 years in federal prison. She admitted that what she did was wrong and served adequate time in prison, even becoming an ordained minister and a mentor to other prisoners. The President served the cause of justice by commuting Johnson's sentence, saying, While this administration will always be very tough on crime, it believes that those who have paid their debt to society and worked hard to better themselves while in prison deserve a second chance. The First Step Act will treat non-violent offenses like Johnson's more fairly. The bill gives judges more say in sentencing through targeted reforms including reducing the three-strike penalty for non-violent drug offenses from life imprisonment to 25 years. It creates a risk and needs assessment system that will ensure each prisoner's risk of re-offending is assessed while excluding violent and high risk criminals, including fentanyl traffickers, from usi…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://larsen.house.gov/press-release/partial-government-shutdown-will-hurt-washington-communities	Partial Government Shutdown Will Hurt Washington Communities	2018-12-22	2018	2018-12	Democrat	House	WA	Rick Larsen	L000560	larsen.house.gov	legacy	Partial Government Shutdown Will Hurt Washington Communities Dec 22, 2018 Issues: Budget WASHINGTON, D.C. Rep. Rick Larsen (WA-02) issued the below statement regarding the impacts a partial government shutdown will have on Washington state communities. A partial government shutdown is bad for Washington state, said Larsen. The childish games played by President Trump and Republicans in Congress will cause Washington state organizations and our communities to feel the consequences of a shutdown. I have heard from local organizations, like the Bellingham Food Bank, U.S. Department of Agriculture Service Center in Mount Vernon and Volunteers of America Western Washington, a partial shutdown will negatively impact operations, including their ability to provide funding for transportation, distribution and storage of food. This shutdown is unnecessary and will impact the thousands of workers who will now spend the holidays working without pay, especially the federal transportation personnel who will support the estimated 45 million passengers travelling during the holidays. Local Impacts of a Partial Government Shutdown Bellingham Food Bank is an emergency food assistance distributor. A shutdown will impact their operations and ability to transport, distribute and store food. A shutdown would close the USDA Service Center in Mount Vernon, which provides support for farmers and rural communities. A long-term shutdown could impact Volunteers of America Western Washington's operations and harm their ability to help the people they serve. Washington State Department of Transportation will need to delay Federal Transit Administration grant payments during a shutdown. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=50F862F5-933B-42A6-AA70-6DA829312834	Senator Murray Statement on Partial Federal Government Shutdown	2018-12-22	2018	2018-12	Democrat	House	WA	Patty Murray	M001111	www.murray.senate.gov	legacy	(Washington, D.C.) U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) released the following statement: This shutdown is truly absurd, and would not have happened if President Trump had simply ignored the 11th hour taunts of a handful of conservatives and instead moved forward with the Senate's bipartisan bill. On behalf of families in Washington state and across the country who are now left wondering when they'll get their next paycheck or when their government will be fully functioning, I'm urging Republicans to work with us to do the right thing and re-open the government as quickly as possible.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://delbene.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2415	DelBene Statement on Trump Shutdown	2018-12-21	2018	2018-12	Democrat	House	WA	Suzan DelBene	D000617	delbene.house.gov	legacy	Tonight, Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (D-WA) made the following statement regarding President Trump's refusal to keep the federal government open. Earlier this week, Republicans and Democrats in Congress were ready to pass legislation that would keep the government open. Unfortunately, President Trump in an effort to appease hardline conservatives and Fox News chose to sabotage this deal and demand $5 billion to fund a wasteful border wall that won't make us any safer. House Republicans have now embraced President Trump's desire to shut down the government. The shutdown will result in roughly 800,000 federal employees being furloughed or working without pay, just in time for the holidays. They include forest service firefighters, Customs and Border Protection agents, and TSA employees. New home and small business loans will stop, many national parks will close, and the IRS won't be able to issue tax refunds. Our farmers will also take a hit as Farm Service county offices will close and much-needed aid from the Department of Agriculture will cease. Enough is enough. This president whose party also controls the House and Senate is incapable of passing a simple spending measure without manufacturing a needless crisis. It's time for President Trump to set aside his ego and do right by the people he is fortunate to serve. Rep. DelBene represents Washington's first congressional district. She is a member of the Ways and Means Committee and the Budget Committee.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://larsen.house.gov/press-release/larsen-calls-house-leadership-permanently-reauthorize-lwcf	Larsen Calls on House Leadership to Permanently Reauthorize LWCF	2018-12-21	2018	2018-12	Democrat	House	WA	Rick Larsen	L000560	larsen.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. This week, Rep. Rick Larsen (WA-02) sent a letter to House Speaker Paul Ryan and Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi calling for Congress to pass legislation to permanently authorize and allocate mandatory funding for the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) before the end of the 115th Congress. The Land and Water Conservation Fund is the cornerstone of environmental conservation which helps preserve Washington state's public lands and waters. Over the last 50 years, Washington state has received more than $675 million from the LWCF to help protect and restore green spaces such as Ebey's Landing National Historical Reserve, Chuckanut Bay and the Wild Sky Wilderness in my district. A healthy environment is vital to Washingtonians' way of life and the regional economy. Outdoor recreation is responsible for an estimated 7.6 million jobs in the United States and plays a significant role in the rural economies and for local businesses in the Second District, Larsen wrote. The Land and Water Conservation Authorization and Funding Act would permanently reauthorize and fully fund the LWCF. Securing annual, mandatory appropriations and permanent reauthorization for the LWCF will safeguard the nation's environmental heritage and guarantee green spaces and pristine waters are available for the enjoyment of future generations. You can read the full letter below. December 20, 2018 Representative Paul D. Ryan Speaker United States House of Representatives Washington, D.C. 20515 Representative Nancy Pelosi Minority Leader United States House of Representatives Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Speaker Ryan and Leader Pelosi: I write in strong support of the passage of the Land and Water Conservation Authorization and Funding Act (H.R. 6759). Congress must pass this bipartisan legislation to permanently reauthorize and allocate mandatory funding for the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) before the end of the 115th Congress. The Land and Water Conservation Fund is th…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://larsen.house.gov/press-release/larsen-calls-president-trump-step-efforts-combat-ebola-and-protect-national-security	Larsen Calls on President Trump to Step Up Efforts to Combat Ebola and Protect National Security	2018-12-21	2018	2018-12	Democrat	House	WA	Rick Larsen	L000560	larsen.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. This week, Rep. Rick Larsen (WA-02) sent a letter to President Trump calling for the U.S. to combat the current outbreak of Ebola in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The outbreak is already the second worst in history with more than 500 cases, including nearly 300 deaths. Experts at the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) are among the very best in the world, having gained valuable experience during the largely unsung success of the response to the 2014 West Africa Ebola outbreak. These agencies have responded to other global emergencies where security threats were present. U.S. leadership will be critical to halting the current Ebola outbreak in the DRC and could convince other countries to increase their commitments, Larsen wrote in the letter. As Larsen noted in his letter, deploying CDC and USAID personnel to the epicenter of the outbreak would protect national security and align with the National Security Strategy and National Biodefense Strategy. I believe the U.S. response to date has been overly cautious. I ask you to direct the National Security Council to assess how many U.S. personnel are needed in North Kivu and Ituri, how to most effectively use them to combat the epidemic and how best to protect responders from security threats, Larsen continued. You can read the full letter below. December 20, 2018 President Donald J. Trump The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue Washington, DC 20500 Dear President Trump: The National Security Strategy (NSS) rightly identifies the impact of biological threats on national security. Building on this point, the National Biodefense Strategy (NBS) highlights the importance of U.S. intervention abroad, stating that the health of the American people depends on our ability to stem infectious disease outbreaks at their source, wherever and however they occur. The current outbreak of Ebola in North Kivu and Ituri provinces in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is already the second worst Ebola …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://larsen.house.gov/press-release/larsen-supports-historic-criminal-justice-reform-legislation	Larsen Supports Historic Criminal Justice Reform Legislation	2018-12-21	2018	2018-12	Democrat	House	WA	Rick Larsen	L000560	larsen.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. Rep. Rick Larsen (WA-02) issued the below statement after voting for the First Step Act, which makes significant changes to the federal criminal justice system: The First Step Act is a good start in making important reforms to the U.S. criminal justice system. This bill reforms sentencing, prisoner assessment, living conditions and post-sentencing support. Through new programs, the bill aims to reduce recidivism and implement post-sentencing support, said Larsen. The bill makes important sentencing reforms for non-violent drug offenders and allows prisoners sentenced before the 2010 law to decrease the disparity on crack/cocaine to petition the court to be resentenced. The bill also includes other necessary provisions like banning the restraint of pregnant women and allowing access to employment assistance, substance abuse treatment, housing, family programming, mentoring and victim support. While Congress has more work to do in reforming the criminal justice system and decreasing the disparities within the system, I hope this first step will lead to many second chances, said Larsen. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=78093456-EB0D-4931-BE32-742A1750905F	VETERANS: Senator Murray Applauds VA Secretarys Announcement That Will Keep All Veterans in Caregiver Support Program While Reforms Made	2018-12-21	2018	2018-12	Democrat	House	WA	Patty Murray	M001111	www.murray.senate.gov	legacy	Announcement comes two days after Senator Murray asked VA Secretary Wilkie during a Congressional hearing to allow veterans to stay in the program until reforms are made to ensure decisions are being made accurately Senator Murray's request comes after NPR report of veterans being kicked out or downgraded from program arbitrarily Senator Murray: I commend Secretary Wilkie for taking these concerns seriously...But this is just the first step.I urge the Secretary to use this time to get it right WATCH: Senator Murray's exchange with VA Secretary Wilkie about the Caregiver Support Program eligibility (Washington, D.C.) U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) commended Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Robert Wilkie for announcing today that VA will temporarily suspend discharges and downgrades for veterans enrolled in VA's Caregiver Support Program. The program, which Senator Murray helped implement in 2011 when she was Chairman of the Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee, supports those who provide care for veterans injured as a result of their service to our country. Senator Murray had expressed her deep concerns to Secretary Wilkie two days ago during a Congressional hearing about reports of veterans who'd lost eligibility in the program for arbitrary reasons. (Watch their exchange here.) I commend Secretary Wilkie for taking these concerns seriously and putting forth this moratorium. But this is just the first step. On behalf of veterans and their caregivers across the country, I urge the Secretary to use this time to get it right. Our military families, who sacrificed so much on our country's behalf, deserve nothing less, said Senator Murray. Senator Murray has consistently worked to hold senior VA officials accountable for implementing the Caregivers program in a way that works best for veterans and their caregivers, not the least of which is creating clear, standardized eligibility requirements. In June 2018, Senator Murray helped secure additional federal investments in the program to ensure VA had the r…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://adamsmith.house.gov/press-releases?ID=029CC42A-5800-42C1-84F5-39D4A544FA3E	Smith Urges FAA Action on Highline Amendment Guidance	2018-12-20	2018	2018-12	Democrat	House	WA	Adam Smith	S000510	adamsmith.house.gov	legacy		0	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://adamsmith.house.gov/press-releases?ID=15D7618D-427E-48E6-8996-1BEB1F6706DE	Smith Statement in Support of the First Step Act	2018-12-20	2018	2018-12	Democrat	House	WA	Adam Smith	S000510	adamsmith.house.gov	legacy		0	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://larsen.house.gov/press-release/after-months-championing-lynnwood-link-extension-dc-murray-cantwell-larsen-and-jayapal	After Months of Championing Lynnwood Link Extension in D.C., Murray, Cantwell, Larsen, and Jayapal Cheer Final Signature on the Project; Work on Long-Awaited Project Can Now Begin	2018-12-20	2018	2018-12	Democrat	House	WA	Rick Larsen	L000560	larsen.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Maria Cantwell (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, and U.S. Representatives Rick Larsen (D, WA-2nd), a senior member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, and Pramila Jayapal (D, WA-7th) applauded the signing of the full funding grant agreement for the Lynnwood Link light rail extension following months of pressure from lawmakers urging U. S. Department of Transportation officials to follow Congressional direction and approve the grant. The final agreementsigned by the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) and Sound Transit CEO Peter Rogoffcements a $1.2 billion commitment from the federal government to help fund the Lynnwood Link project, and allows Sound Transit to begin drawing down on $200 million in federal funding already allocated by Congress for the project through the Capital Investment Grants (CIG) program. According to Sound Transit, now that the final agreement is signed and executed, work on the Lynnwood Link light rail extension is slated to begin in early 2019. This critical step comes on the heels of a new $657.9 million direct loan also approved through the Department's Transportation Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (TIFIA) program in support of the Lynnwood Link project. Just in time for the holidays, this major federal investment is an incredible gift to Puget Sound to help address congestion on our roads and connect residents to jobs, schools, and businesses in King and Snohomish counties. I commend Secretary Chao and the FTA for working with us to move this vital project forward, and I look forward to continuing our work in Congress to get this project across the finish line, said Senator Murray. The $1.2 billion commitment from the Department of Transportation is an important next step in supporting local jobs and the regional economy, said Representative Larsen. The Lynnwood Link Extension will add…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://mcmorris.house.gov/congress-passes-bipartisan-legislation-to-award-spokane-native-steve-gleason-with-congressional-gold-medal/	Congress Passes Bipartisan Legislation to Award Spokane Native Steve Gleason with Congressional Gold Medal	2018-12-20	2018	2018-12	Republican	House	WA	Cathy McMorris Rodgers	M001159	mcmorris.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. (December 20, 2019) Eastern Washington Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05), along with U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), Patty Murray (D-WA), John Kennedy (R-LA), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), U.S. Representatives Cedric Richmond (D-LA), Steve Scalise (R-LA), Ralph Abraham (R-LA) and Mike Johnson (R-LA), and representatives of Microsoft, the New Orleans Saints, and the ALS Association, applauded the House's unanimous passage today of bipartisan legislation (S. 2652) to award Spokane native, ALS champion, and former New Orleans Saints star Steve Gleason with the Congressional Gold Medal. The Senate unanimously passed the bill in June, and it now heads to the president's desk to be signed into law. Steve, a Spokane native, is a hero to me and to so many of us in Eastern Washington, said Representative McMorris Rodgers. As a tireless advocate for those with ALS and other degenerative diseases, Steve has helped usher legislation through Congress to permanently provide access to important speech-generating devices for those who've lost their ability to communicate. He has chosen to fight back against ALS, and to undergo this very personal battle in the public eye to bring awareness to this disease and the people who it impacts on a daily basis. This legislation, which is on its way to becoming law, will recognize Steve's advocacy and determination with one of our nation's highest honors, the Congressional Gold Medal. Through his work to help others who are disabled, Steve Gleason has changed so many lives for the better, said SenatorCassidy (R-LA). As more members of Congress heard about Steve's work, the support for this bill only grew. Steve is a hero to many and I'm proud we got this done to honor a great American. The Congressional Gold Medal is reserved for those individuals who make a profound and lasting contribution to our country and Mr. Gleason has certainly done that, said Senator Murray (D-WA). For those of us who've followed him from his early days in eastern Washington, to anyo…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-statement-president-trump-signing-2018-farm-bill	Newhouse Statement on President Trump Signing 2018 Farm Bill	2018-12-20	2018	2018-12	Republican	House	WA	Dan Newhouse	N000189	newhouse.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) released the following statement after attending the White House signing ceremony of the 2018 Farm Bill, Conference Report to Accompany H.R. 2 - Agriculture Improvement Act. Last week, the U.S. House of Representatives voted 369-47 to pass the Farm Bill. Thank you, President Trump, for signing this critical legislation on behalf of Farm Country, said Rep. Newhouse. The 2018 Farm Bill is a major accomplishment that gives Central Washington farmers and agriculture producers across the country much-needed certainty and a secure safety net. Additionally today, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue announced a proposed rule intended to move more able-bodied recipients of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits to self-sufficiency through the dignity of work. The rule proposed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) focuses on work-related program requirements for able-bodied adults without dependents. The rule would apply to non-disabled people, between the ages of 18 and 49, with no dependents. The rule would not apply to the elderly, the disabled, or pregnant women. Click here to read additional highlights of the Farm Bill Conference Report. Click here to read a summary of the Farm Bill Conference Report. Click here to read the Farm Bill Conference Report text. CLICK HERE TO WATCH REP. NEWHOUSE SPEAK IN SUPPORT OF THE 2018 FARM BILL Transcript: Mr. Speaker, earlier this yearas the House considered its version of the Farm BillI spoke in this chamber about a Farm Bill listening tour that I had conducted in my own District, traveling to every county that I represent to hear from and listen to input and the concerns from farmers, ranchers, and producers across the State of Washington. In the days since then the House passed that bill early this summer, there has been growing concern that the job would not get donethat the 2014 Farm Bill would expire and that our nation's Farm Country would be left without the crucial tools this legislation provides t…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-statement-secretary-mattis-service	Newhouse Statement on Secretary Mattis Service	2018-12-20	2018	2018-12	Republican	House	WA	Dan Newhouse	N000189	newhouse.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) released the following statement on the service of Secretary of Defense James Mattis: "I am grateful for Secretary Mattis' honorable service, said Rep. Newhouse. A fellow Washingtonian, he has served our nation with distinction. Every Americans can be proud of his record both in uniform as a U.S. Marine and as Secretary of Defense. He has shown himself to be a man who exemplifies duty and patriotism and a true role model for every young Tri-Citian.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/-cantwell-applauds-signing-of-lynnwood-link-final-agreement	Cantwell Applauds Signing of Lynnwood Link Final Agreement	2018-12-20	2018	2018-12	Democrat	House	WA	Maria Cantwell	C000127	www.cantwell.senate.gov	legacy	12.20.18 Cantwell Applauds Signing of Lynnwood Link Final Agreement Work on light rail extension expected to start in early 2019 WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, applauded the signing of the final agreement between the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) and Sound Transit to provide funding to the Lynnwood Link light rail extension project: Finalizing this agreement means we can put shovels in the ground in early 2019 to provide commuters with a faster option to get to work, school, and throughout Puget Sound. With a 28 minute travel time between Lynnwood and downtown Seattle, Snohomish County will soon have a transit option that delivers the connectivity it needs to keep up with the tremendous growth the region has experienced. Senator Cantwell has long fought for more public transit and infrastructure funding for Puget Sound and Washington state, and she has repeatedly pressed senior Department of Transportation officials for funding for the Lynnwood Link project. At Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao's confirmation hearing, Cantwell urged Chao to prioritize more funding for Sound Transit. Cantwell has also fought back against the administration's efforts to cancel funding for nearly 60 shovel-ready public transit projects, including the Lynnwood Link project, and has advocated for strong funding for the Capital Investment Grant program. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-cantwell-murray-cheer-passage-of-their-legislation-to-award-spokane-native-steve-gleason-with-congressional-gold-medal	Senators Cantwell, Murray Cheer Passage of Their Legislation to Award Spokane Native Steve Gleason with Congressional Gold Medal	2018-12-20	2018	2018-12	Democrat	House	WA	Maria Cantwell	C000127	www.cantwell.senate.gov	legacy	12.20.18 Senators Cantwell, Murray Cheer Passage of Their Legislation to Award Spokane Native Steve Gleason with Congressional Gold Medal Standout WA football star and health care advocate becomes first NFL player in history to receive highest civilian honor Congress can bestow WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and Patty Murray (D-WA) applauded the House's passage of bipartisan legislation (S. 2652) to awardWashington state native, ALS champion, and former New Orleans Saints star Steve Gleasonwith the Congressional Gold Medal, following the Senate passage in June. The bill, championed by Cantwell and Murray, as well as Senators Bill Cassidy (R-LA) and John Kennedy (R-LA) and U.S. Representative Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA), now heads to the president's desk to be signed into law. The lives of countless people have been improved because of Steve's determination, perseverance, and advocacy. Rather putting up a white flag, Steve used his own devastating diagnosis to inspire a nation and make sure people living with ALS have access to the latest speech-generating technology. It is befitting that Steve's incredible work be recognized with a Congressional Gold Medal,said Senator Cantwell. The Congressional Gold Medal is reserved for those individuals who make a profound and lasting contribution to our country and Mr. Gleason has certainly done that, said Senator Murray. For those of us who've followed him from his early days in eastern Washington, to anyone just learning about his story today, we are all so fortunate that Steve brings the same fight and passion to his health care advocacy that he brought to the football field. Steve, you make Washington state so proud, and it's been my honor to play a role in helping your Congressional Gold Medal come to fruition. The Stephen Michael Gleason Congressional Gold Medal Act recognizes Gleason for his work th…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/servicemembers-can-be-charged-cancellation-fees-when-they-deploy-cantwell-fischer-secure-fix	Servicemembers Can Be Charged Cancellation Fees When they Deploy; Cantwell, Fischer Secure Fix	2018-12-20	2018	2018-12	Democrat	House	WA	Maria Cantwell	C000127	www.cantwell.senate.gov	legacy	12.20.18 Servicemembers Can Be Charged Cancellation Fees When they Deploy; Cantwell, Fischer Secure Fix Senators' bill will shield military servicemembers from pay TV and internet cancellation fees WASHINGTON, D.C. Legislation introduced by U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE) to amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) to ensure military servicemembers are not charged cancellation fees for pay TV and internet services when they deploy or change duty stations passed the Senate. The legislation passed the House of Representatives earlier last week and now heads to President Trump's desk for signature into law. Under existing law, servicemembers may break rental leases, cellphone contracts, car leases, and other contractual agreements without penalty if they are relocating or deploying on official orders. The Cantwell-Fischer bill extends the same relief to cover pay TV and internet service contracts for relocating or deploying servicemembers and eligible dependents. Our brave servicemembers leave their families, loved ones, and communities to serve our country and defend our freedoms, said Senator Cantwell. This bill will allow servicemembers to focus on their families and training for pending deployments instead of costly cancellation fees. When our men and women in uniform are deployed or relocated, the last thing they should have to worry about are cancellation fees from TV or internet providers. I helped lead this bipartisan solution to prevent unfair fees and reduce burdens when deploying, so that service members can concentrate on their active duty orders. Now that Congress has passed the legislation, I hope President Trump will quickly sign it into law to make life a bit easier for the Americans who defend our nation and keep us safe, said Senator Fischer. Currently, there are limited protections for servicemembers who are issu…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=3762C362-C5EC-4F32-85AF-D80B28E2C37D	Senator Murray Applauds Senate Passage of Her Bill to Make Applying for Federal Financial Aid Easier for Students in Washington State and Nationwide	2018-12-20	2018	2018-12	Democrat	House	WA	Patty Murray	M001111	www.murray.senate.gov	legacy	Bipartisan bill will allow students to complete tax information on the FAFSA with only one click; now heads to House for a vote Senator Murray: Bill will help fix federal financial aid so students and student loan borrowers are able navigate financial aid through a streamlined and efficient process ICYMI Senator Murray's Medium Post: Thousands of dollars for Washington state college students who just need to fill out a form MORE HERE (Washington, D.C.) U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), top Democrat on the Senate education committee, cheered the Senate passage of legislation that will make it easier for the nearly 20 million students that complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) each year by having the IRS securely send the Department of Education their federal tax information with one-click. The Faster Access to Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) Act, introduced by Senator Murray last month, will simplify the process for students to file their Free Application for Federal Student Aid, make it easier for certain student loan borrowers to pay back their loans, and streamline coordination between federal agencies that handle student aid programs. Now that the Senate has passed the legislation, it will head to the U.S. House of Representatives. Our nation's outdated and overly complicated financial aid system is forcing students and student loan borrowers to jump through too many hoops to access federal financial aid, verify the tax returns they've already filled out, or get help if they're struggling to pay their student loans, said Senator Murray. I'm pleased to work with my colleagues on this needed fix to federal financial aid, and I urge the House to pass this quickly so students and borrowers are able navigate their financial aid through a streamlined and efficient process. The Faster Access to Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) Actwillmake FAFSA completion easierand more securefor nearly 20 million studentsby: Improvingand securingthe way individuals' IRS tax information is sent to the Depart…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=7C195FE6-3DB6-4B69-B559-1CA6243F30E0	TRANSPORTATION: After Months of Championing Lynnwood Link Extension in DC, Murray, Cantwell, Larsen, and Jayapal Cheer Final Signature on the Project; Work on Long-Awaited Project Can Now Begin	2018-12-20	2018	2018-12	Democrat	House	WA	Patty Murray	M001111	www.murray.senate.gov	legacy	Signing of final agreement for Lynnwood Link light rail extension project follows 30-day congressional review period Sound Transit can start drawing down federal funds for Lynnwood Link project, including $200M in funding already appropriated by Congress Key federal loan to support Lynnwood Link project also approved WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Maria Cantwell (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, and U.S. Representatives Rick Larsen (D, WA-2nd), a senior member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, and Pramila Jayapal (D, WA-7th) applauded the signing of the full funding grant agreement for the Lynnwood Link light rail extension following months of pressure from lawmakers urging U. S. Department of Transportation officials to follow Congressional direction and approve the grant. The final agreementsigned by the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) and Sound Transit CEO Peter Rogoffcements a $1.2 billion commitment from the federal government to help fund the Lynnwood Link project, and allows Sound Transit to begin drawing down on $200 million in federal funding already allocated by Congress for the project through the Capital Investment Grants (CIG) program. According to Sound Transit, now that the final agreement is signed and executed, work on the Lynnwood Link light rail extension is slated to begin in early 2019. This critical step comes on the heels of a new $657.9 million direct loan also approved through the Department's Transportation Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (TIFIA) program in support of the Lynnwood Link project. Just in time for the holidays, this major federal investment is an incredible gift to Puget Sound to help address congestion on our roads and connect residents to jobs, schools, and businesses in King and Snohomish counties. I commend Secretary Chao and the FTA for working with us to move this vital project forward, and…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=BE1F7DC5-B0DA-4684-9FA2-999A8DA9C513	Senators Murray, Cantwell Cheer Passage of Their Legislation to Award Spokane Native Steve Gleason with Congressional Gold Medal	2018-12-20	2018	2018-12	Democrat	House	WA	Patty Murray	M001111	www.murray.senate.gov	legacy	Standout WA football star and health care advocate becomes first NFL player in history to receive highest civilian honor Congress can bestow Popular bipartisan legislation will now head to the president's desk to be signed into law WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA) and Maria Cantwell (D-WA) applauded the House's passage of bipartisan legislation (S. 2652) to awardWashington state native, ALS champion, and former New Orleans Saints star Steve Gleasonwith the Congressional Gold Medal, following the Senate passage in June. The bill, championed by Murray, Cantwell, as well as Senators Bill Cassidy (R-LA) and John Kennedy (R-LA) and U.S. Representative Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA), now heads to the president's desk to be signed into law. The Congressional Gold Medal is reserved for those individuals who make a profound and lasting contribution to our country and Mr. Gleason has certainly done that, said Senator Murray. For those of us who've followed him from his early days in eastern Washington, to anyone just learning about his story today, we are all so fortunate that Steve brings the same fight and passion to his health care advocacy that he brought to the football field. Steve, you make Washington state so proud, and it's been my honor to play a role in helping your Congressional Gold Medal come to fruition. The lives of countless people have been improved because of Steve's determination, perseverance, and advocacy. Rather putting up a white flag, Steve used his own devastating diagnosis to inspire a nation and make sure people living with ALS have access to the latest speech-generating technology. It is befitting that Steve's incredible work be recognized with a Congressional Gold Medal, said Senator Cantwell. The Stephen Michael Gleason Congressional Gold Medal Act recognizes Gleason for his work through the Gleason Initiative Foundation to provide individuals with neuromuscular diseases or injuries with the assistance they need to thrive, his advocacy for federal legislation en…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://dennyheck.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/new-proposal-made-on-relocation-tax-issue	New Proposal Made on Relocation Tax Issue	2018-12-19	2018	2018-12	Democrat	House	WA	Denny Heck	H001064	dennyheck.house.gov	legacy	Legislation (HR-7254) newly introduced in the House aims to fix a tax liability for federal employees who relocate that was caused by last year's tax law changes. That law made employer-paid relocation expenses taxable as ordinary income effective with calendar year 2018, ending a previous general exclusion from taxes that now applies only to military personnel. Under urging from several members of Congress, the GSA told agencies to essentially make employees whole for the added tax liability for transfers within the U.S. However, the GSA instruction does not protect employees relocating from overseas, meaning that they may owe thousands of more dollars in taxes, sponsor Rep. Denny Heck, D-Wash., said in introducing the bill. The measure, which would apply retroactively to the beginning of this year, would make civilian federal employees returning from overseas eligible for a tax exclusion like that applying to military personnel. It also would make newly hired and retiring employees eligible for the reimbursement. This close to the adjournment of Congress, the best chance for enactment likely would be to try attaching the proposal to some other measure set to pass.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://herrerabeutler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=399377	Southwest Washington Lawmakers Urge Governor Inslee to Respect Clark County Voters Opposition to Light Rail, Consider Transit Alternatives	2018-12-19	2018	2018-12	Republican	House	WA	Jaime Herrera Beutler	H001056	herrerabeutler.house.gov	legacy	In a joint letter sent today, eight federal and state Southwest Washington lawmakers urged Governor Inslee to consider alternatives to light rail in addressing the I-5 Columbia River bridge. Past light rail proposals have been soundly rejected by Clark County residents in multiple county-wide votes. share: f t In a joint letter sent today, eight federal and state Southwest Washington lawmakers urged Governor Inslee to consider alternatives to light rail in addressing the I-5 Columbia River bridge. Past light rail proposals have been soundly rejected by Clark County residents in multiple county-wide votes.The letter was signed by U.S. Representative Jaime Herrera Beutler, Washington state Senators John Braun (LD 20), Ann Rivers (LD 18) and Lynda Wilson (LD 17), Washington state Representatives Richard DeBolt (LD 20), Paul Harris (LD 17), Ed Orcutt (LD 20) and Brandon Vick (LD 18). The letter follows the governor's newly-released 2019-2021 budget which includes funding for an I-5 bridge replacement and language that the Washington Department of Transportation shall assume any plan for a new bridge will include light rail. In their letter, the lawmakers state: The Columbia River Crossing project failed in large part due to the insistence of politicians and bureaucrats that the new bridge bring Oregon's light rail system into Clark County, despite the demonstrated lack of support from the County's voters. Those who refuse to learn from history are doomed to repeat it. The full text of the letter follows and a PDF version is available here. Dear Governor Inslee: We are writing to ask you to help keep mass transit alternatives to light rail on the table during negotiations on any I-5 bridge project over the Columbia River. We all agree on the pressing need to address the congestion and safety issues at the current I-5 bridge, and it's imperative that we all work together on a long-term solution that both sides of the …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://herrerabeutler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=399386	Bipartisan Bill to Control Sea Lions, Save Salmon on the Columbia and Willamette Rivers Signed Into Law	2018-12-19	2018	2018-12	Republican	House	WA	Jaime Herrera Beutler	H001056	herrerabeutler.house.gov	legacy	Today, the bipartisan bill authored by U.S. Representatives Jaime Herrera Beutler (R-WA) and Kurt Schrader (D-OR) giving tribal members and government fish managers the authority to lethally remove sea lions that are decimating endangered salmon and steelhead runs was signed into law. share: f t Today, the bipartisan bill authored by U.S. Representatives Jaime Herrera Beutler (R-WA) and Kurt Schrader (D-OR) giving tribal members and government fish managers the authority to lethally remove sea lions that are decimating endangered salmon and steelhead runs was signed into law.The Endangered Salmon and Fisheries Predation Prevention Act passed the U.S. House earlier this year, and companion legislation passed the U.S. Senate earlier this month. After 12 years of hard work by so many on this legislation, seeing it finally become law today represents a momentous step in the effort to protect our endangered salmon and steelhead runs. Today, we have reason to be optimistic that our fight to prevent the extinction of entire Northwest salmon runs, and the species that depend on them, can succeed, said Rep. Herrera Beutler. This has been an issue that I have worked on since first coming to Congress. I want to thank everyone Rep. Herrera Beutler, Senators Risch and Cantwell, and our states, tribes, and local communities for the exceptional work to get this bill over the finish line this year, said Rep. Schrader. In the last few years especially, we've seen a record number of sea lions in the Columbia River from Astoria to Bonneville Dam. Ratepayers and my constituents are paying hundreds of millions of dollars annually towards the largest mitigation program in the country for threatened and endangered salmon. These sea lions, whose population has become totally inconsistent with their historic range, have been undoing all of that work by feasting on the endangered species. Our law will provide a great step forward in eliminating this threat to our iconic Oregon …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://mcmorris.house.gov/president-trump-signs-mcmorris-rodgerss-7th-bill-into-law/	President Trump Signs McMorris Rodgers’s 7th Bill into Law	2018-12-19	2018	2018-12	Republican	House	WA	Cathy McMorris Rodgers	M001159	mcmorris.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. (December 19, 2018) Today, President Donald Trump signed Eastern Washington Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers's (WA-05) 7th bill into law, herSpurring Business in Communities Act (H.R. 4111). Cathy introduced this legislation alongside Rep. Stephanie Murphy (D-FL) in October of 2017 to help bring more Small Business Investment Companies (SBICs) to Eastern Washington to invest in local businesses. As Cathy said earlier this month, Small businesses are the backbone of our economy, providing two out of every three new jobs in America and serving as a foundation for our communities. Small Business Investment Companies (SBICs) serve an important function in providing capital and support to these job creators, however, there are currently none here in Washington state. My bipartisan bill, which now heads to the president's desk to become law, will make it easier for them to form here in Eastern Washington and invest in our community and local small businesses. Rep. Murphy, ranking member on the House Small Business Committee's Subcommittee on Contracting and Workforce, added, As a former businesswoman, I know how important growth capital is to starting and sustaining a successful small business. Securing private capital remains a challenge for too many businesses. I am incredibly proud that our bipartisan legislation to support small businesses and boost private sector job creation is now law. NOTE:A 2017 Library of Congress study found that SBIC-backed small businesses created 3 million new jobs and supported an additional 6.5 million. According to the Small Business Administration's most recent report, SBICs reported more than $800 million in financing during the fourth quarter of2017,and created more than 16,000 jobs. Over the same period, SBICs were able to finance 210 companies across the U.S., including 25 businesses in Low- and Moderate-Income areas, and 12 businesses owned by women, minorities, or veterans. # # #	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/house-passes-newhouse-legislation-transfer-kennewick-irrigation-district	House Passes Newhouse Legislation to Transfer Kennewick Irrigation District Title	2018-12-19	2018	2018-12	Republican	House	WA	Dan Newhouse	N000189	newhouse.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON D.C. Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) released the following statement after the House of Representatives by a bipartisan vote of 358 to 1 approved federal legislation he introduced, H.R. 6652, to transfer title of U.S. Bureau of Reclamation (BOR) related works and lands to the Kennewick Irrigation District (KID). In accordance with the December 2017 Memorandum of Agreement between KID and BOR, this legislation will transfer title of works beginning at KID's head gate and extending 40 miles east to the Columbia River. The transfer includes the conveyance of land and project facilities and should be completed no later than two years after the enactment. The legislation must now be approved by the Senate. Local resources should be responsively managed by local entities wherever possible, and that's what my legislation will ensure on behalf of the Kennewick Irrigation District, said Rep. Newhouse. This is a big improvement for Central Washington water users, and I'm proud that the House passed my bill. I urge my Senate colleagues to act before the end of the year so that this legislation can be signed into law. Rep. Newhouse gave a speech on the floor of the House earlier today on the legislation: Click here to watch Rep. Newhouse speak on House floor in support of H.R. 6652 Click here to read the text of H.R. 6652. Background: H.R. 6652 conveys title for the facilities managed and operated by Kennewick Irrigation District (KID). It does not privatize federal water projects or properties within the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation (BOR). KID will complete an environmental assessment under the National Environmental Policy Act, as well as all necessary Endangered Species Act, National Historical Preservation Act, and hazardous review processes. KID and BOR have committed to ensuring that all stakeholders, tribal concerns, and local interests have a seat at the table throughout the process. In addition to ensuring the proper reviews are completed, KID will repay their allocated share of construction costs …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/-murray-cantwell-call-on-trump-administration-to-protect-rights-of-transgender-federal-employees	Murray, Cantwell Call on Trump Administration to Protect Rights of Transgender Federal Employees	2018-12-19	2018	2018-12	Democrat	House	WA	Maria Cantwell	C000127	www.cantwell.senate.gov	legacy	12.19.18 Murray, Cantwell Call on Trump Administration to Protect Rights of Transgender Federal Employees WASHINGTON, D.C. This week, U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), and 27 of their Senate colleagues called on the Trump administration to restore guidelines for protecting the privacy and rights of transgender federal employees. Last month, the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) replaced information on its website that provided supervisors with guidelines regarding transgender federal employees with new guidance that omits essential information, including any reference to transgender individuals. We write to express our serious concern that guidance meant to ensure transgender federal employees are treated with dignity and respect has been removed from the website of the U.S. Office of Personnel Management, the senators wrote in a letter to the Acting Director of OPM. We request that you immediately make the guidance available online, so that managers, supervisors, and employees are equipped with accurate information and fully understand their responsibilities in the federal workplace. The new guidance that replaced it omits essential information, including any reference to transgender individuals, greatly diminishing OPM's ability to educate federal agencies on anti-discrimination policies and retain a productive federal workforce as diverse as the people it serves, the senators continued. The Trump Administration has removed information about LGBTQ people from a variety of websites across federal agencies, including the White House website, the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Women's Health website, and the Department of State website, and has aggressively taken anti-LGBTQ actions, which have been catalogued by the National Center for Transgender Equality and GLAAD. In addition to Murray and Cantwell, the letter was also signed by U.S. Senators Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Mazie Hirono (D…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-pallone-demand-immediate-action-on-pipeline-cybersecurity-from-dhs	Cantwell, Pallone Demand Immediate Action On Pipeline Cybersecurity From DHS	2018-12-19	2018	2018-12	Democrat	House	WA	Maria Cantwell	C000127	www.cantwell.senate.gov	legacy	12.19.18 Cantwell, Pallone Demand Immediate Action On Pipeline Cybersecurity From DHS The Call Comes on the Heels of a GAO Report Spotlighting Vulnerabilities in our System Washington, D.C. Today, Ranking Member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and House Energy and Commerce Ranking Member Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ) released a letter to DHS Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen calling for her to take urgent action to protect America's pipelines from cyber attack. The letter comes as the Government Accountability Office (GAO) released a report today, requested by Cantwell and Pallone, detailing issues American pipelines face defending against potentially catastrophic cyber attacks. We write today to request the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) perform an assessment of current cyber and physical security protections for U.S. natural gas, oil, and other hazardous liquid pipelines and associated infrastructure, Cantwell and Pallone wrote. We also request a specific plan of action as to how DHS will address GAO's concerns. Our nation's energy assets are critical to our safety, security and economic well-being. Protecting our pipelines, and the people who live and work near them, must be a top priority for our government and I hope this report will prompt the Trump administration to start treating this challenge with the urgency it deserves, said Sen. Cantwell. It's clear from GAO's work that while pipelines are reliable today, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is not fully prepared to face the challenges of tomorrow. I'm concerned that TSA lacks both the resources and expertise in energy delivery systems to keep up with its obligations under the law. Secretary Nielsen must address the concerns Senator Cantwell and I raise in our letter to ensure the security of our nation's pipelines. said Rep. Pallone. Key findings of the GAO report …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=969E594F-4E86-4DDC-A6DA-0B58902EF71F	Senators Murray, Cantwell Call on Trump Administration to Protect Rights of Transgender Federal Employees	2018-12-19	2018	2018-12	Democrat	House	WA	Patty Murray	M001111	www.murray.senate.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. This week, U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), and 27 of their Senate colleagues called on the Trump administration to restore guidelines for protecting the privacy and rights of transgender federal employees. Last month, the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) replaced information on its website that provided supervisors with guidelines regarding transgender federal employees with new guidance that omits essential information, including any reference to transgender individuals. We write to express our serious concern that guidance meant to ensure transgender federal employees are treated with dignity and respect has been removed from the website of the U.S. Office of Personnel Management, the senators wrote in a letter to the Acting Director of OPM. We request that you immediately make the guidance available online, so that managers, supervisors, and employees are equipped with accurate information and fully understand their responsibilities in the federal workplace. The new guidance that replaced it omits essential information, including any reference to transgender individuals, greatly diminishing OPM's ability to educate federal agencies on anti-discrimination policies and retain a productive federal workforce as diverse as the people it serves, the senators continued. The Trump Administration has removed information about LGBTQ people from a variety of websites across federal agencies, including the White House website, the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Women's Health website, and the Department of State website, and has aggressively taken anti-LGBTQ actions, which have been catalogued by the National Center for Transgender Equality and GLAAD. In addition to Murray and Cantwell, the letter was also signed by U.S. Senators Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Ed Markey (D-MA), Chris Coons (D-DE), Pat Leahy (D-VT), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI)…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=E6665B19-43D2-4B43-A7CD-07DAB2DA0605	As Impact of #MeToo Movement Grows in Washington State and Nationwide, New Report From Senator Murray Shines Spotlight On Sexual Assault, Harassment In Key Industries; Recommends Next Steps To Stop Harassment For All Workers	2018-12-19	2018	2018-12	Democrat	House	WA	Patty Murray	M001111	www.murray.senate.gov	legacy	Yearlongoversight report highlights stories of brave women and men who came forward to share experiences of workplace harassment, their storiesare making an impact Report highlights need for new federal action to give workers the tools and support they need to hold employers accountable Senator Murray: I wanted to make sure that Congress paid attention not just to the stories from Hollywood or here in the nation's capital, but to all workers *Read the full report HERE* (Washington, D.C.) U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), top Democrat on the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, released a new report on the scourge of workplace harassment, entitled, So I Tolerated It:' How Workplaces Are Responding to Harassment and the Clear Need for Federal Action. The report is a result of a nearly yearlong examination, initiated by Senator Murray after so many brave women and men came forward and shared their stories of sexual harassment and assault in the wake of the #MeToo movement. It examines the ways in which survivors' stories are leading to change and underscores the need for stronger action to ensure workers have the tools and support to hold employers accountable. The report comes on the heels of legislation passed by Congress last week to strengthen protections for congressional employees against sexual assault and harassment, which Senator Murray supported. We've seen so many people bravely come forward and make clear that sexual assault and harassment in the workplace just has to stopand I wanted to make sure that Congress paid attention not just to the stories from Hollywood or here in the nation's capital, but to all workers, especially in industries like manufacturing and food service where these threats are especially high,said Senator Murray.It's inspiring to see that, as the report shows, workers are having an impact by speaking up. It's also clear there is a real need for stronger protections and preventative measures, which is something I'll be very focused on as we hea…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=F906B520-0E6D-4FF3-99EA-A4A297503936	Senators Murray, Cantwell Join Senate Democratic Colleagues to Urge President Trump to Condemn Texas v. U.S. Decision That Could Gut Health Care for Millions of Patients and Families, Protect Pre-Existing Condition Protections	2018-12-19	2018	2018-12	Democrat	House	WA	Patty Murray	M001111	www.murray.senate.gov	legacy	In new letter, Senators call controversial federal court decision on health care not just legally unsound, but inhumane and cruel Senators to President Trump: Americans need you to work with us to defend their access to quality, affordable health carewe must not let this flawed court decision stand and devastate millions of American families both physically and financially ICYMI: After Texas Federal Court Decision, Senate Democrats Urge Republicans to Show Leadership, Defend Patient Protections WATCH VIDEO HERE WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA), top Democrat on the Senate health committee, and Maria Cantwell (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Finance Committee, joined a group of 49 Senators in calling on President Trump to condemn the recent decision in Texas v. United States which declared the Affordable Care Act (ACA) unconstitutional. If the decision stands, 20 million Americans will be left without the health insurance they rely on, 133 million Americans with a pre-existing condition will be at risk of losing their access to health insurance, and millions of families across the country will see healthcare costs rise. In their letter to President Trump, the Senators wrote in part, It is not too late for you to condemn this decision by requesting a stay and taking steps to defend the Affordable Care Act moving forward. The ACA is, quite simply, the law of the land, and it is your Administration's duty to defend it. Further, even among the numerous, failed attempts to repeal the ACA, there was widespread recognition that simply repealing the law without a replacement would be too devastating to American families and to our economy to fathom. Yet that is exactly what this ruling, if upheld, would do. The Senators continued: Americans need you to work with us to defend their access to quality, affordable health care. We can work together to improve our health care system and reduce costs, but we must not let this flawed court decision stand and devastate millions of American famil…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=3E2BECB1-1022-4414-AE60-D1ABBA1170B6	Senator Murray Statement on School Safety Commission: It is insulting to students, parents, and teachers that Secretary DeVos wasted this opportunity	2018-12-18	2018	2018-12	Democrat	House	WA	Patty Murray	M001111	www.murray.senate.gov	legacy	Trump administration school safety commission released report that failed to address commonsense gun safety reform, recommended reversing policies aimed at addressing discriminatory discipline practices in schools Senator Murray: Report underscores that Secretary DeVos is more interested in pandering to the NRA than listening to the students, parents, and teachers ICYMI: Senator Murray Demands Answers From Education Secretary Betsy DeVos on New Gun Commission MORE HERE (Washington, D.C.) U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), top Democrat on the Senate education committee, released the following statement today on the report released by the Trump administration's school safety commission. After the Parkland shooting, Senator Murray voiced concerns that the Commission, led by Department of Education Secretary Betsy DeVos, would be nothing more than a distraction and delay from addressing meaningful gun safety measures. It is insulting to students, parents, and teachers that Secretary DeVos wasted this opportunity to make some progress on a really important issue. Despite overwhelming evidence and basic common sense, Secretary DeVos is trying to make the case that it's not weapons of war in schools that make students unsafe, but rather the true danger is schools' attempts to fight racism and inappropriate discipline. This is mind-boggling and absurd, and it underscores that Secretary DeVos is more interested in pandering to the NRA than listening to the students, parents, and teachers she is supposed to serve. The gun industry itself could not have written a more blatant and obvious distraction from the real problem gun violence poses to students across our country. Though the Trump administration commission on school safety was formed following the deadly school shooting in Parkland, Florida, the report completely avoids addressing meaningful, commonsense gun safety reform, such as universal background checks for gun purchases. The report also recommends the Departments of Education and Justice roll back Obama…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/reps-tim-ryan-d-oh-and-derek-kilmer-d-wa-place-friendly-bet-on-rose-bowl-game	Reps. Tim Ryan (D-OH) and Derek Kilmer (D-WA) Place Friendly Bet on Rose Bowl Game	2018-12-17	2018	2018-12	Democrat	House	WA	Derek Kilmer	K000381	kilmer.house.gov	legacy	12.17.18 Reps. Tim Ryan (D-OH) and Derek Kilmer (D-WA) Place Friendly Bet on Rose Bowl Game Washington, DC Representatives Derek Kilmer (D-WA) and Tim Ryan (D-OH) today made a friendly wager on the 2019 Rose Bowl Game: The Ohio State University Buckeyes vs The University of Washington Huskies. If the Huskies win, Ryan agreed to give Kilmer Buckeyes from Gorant Chocolatier and gourmet popcorn from Metropolis Popcorn; and, if The Ohio State University wins the game, Kilmer agreed to give Ryan candy apples from Amy's Decadent Chocolate, Almond Roca, and smoked salmon. The forecast in Ohio's 13th Congressional District is calling for Purple Reign, Kilmer said. Myles Gaskin and Jake Browning are an unstoppable combo. And, Ohio State's offense is no match for the nation's leading tackler Ben Burr-Kirven and the stout Husky defense. I'm looking forward to eating some buckeyes after the Huskies beat Ohio State. Go Dawgs. I have no doubt that we will see The Ohio State Buckeyes claim victory over the Washington Huskies in the 2019 Rose Bowl. The Big Ten Champion Buckeyes have been firing on all cylinders and is being led by one of Ohio State's most talented quarterbacks, Dwayne Haskins a Heisman finalist who has led the country in both passing yards and touchdown passes. We will be starting the New Year with a W' and some Washington candy apples, Almond Roca, and smoked salmon to top it all off, said Ryan. This matchup will be the first time in the College Football Playoff era that the Rose Bowl has its traditional matchup, the Pac-12 champion against the Big Ten champion. ### Next Article Previous Article	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns-and-op-eds/column-farm-bill-passage-helps-central-washington-farm	COLUMN: Farm Bill Passage Helps Central Washington Farm Country	2018-12-17	2018	2018-12	Republican	House	WA	Dan Newhouse	N000189	newhouse.house.gov	legacy	Last week, Congress voted 369-47 to pass the 2018 Farm Bill, sending this critical legislation to President Trump for his signature into law. The agreement sets us on a better path for our country's farmers and ranchers, for our rural communities, for small businesses, and for consumers across the country at the grocery store and at kitchen tables. In March, I traveled across Central Washington to speak with farmers from every county in the Fourth Congressional District about their goals for the Farm Bill. With passage of the bill, I am proud to spread the news that we have provided a strong foundation to help farmers survive a 50-percent drop in net farm income over the past five years. I am proud to let farmers in Pateros in Okanogan County know that we have strengthened market access programs and provided strong resources to open new sources for exporting across the globe. I can tell farmers in Grant County that we have protected crop insurance and made several key improvements, including for whole farm revenue coverage for specialty crop producers. I can tell dairy producers in Yakima County that we have improved the dairy safety net for large, mid-sized, and small dairies. I can report back to producers in Prosser in Benton County, who stressed to me the importance of agricultural research, that we have provided an increase in funding for research, for extension, and for education projects. With the passage of the Farm Bill, key agricultural partners in our community like Washington State University can be confident that we will keep American agriculture at the forefront of innovation and productivity. Farmers from East Wenatchee can be confident that this Farm Bill invests in critical cost-share and incentive-based programs to help farm families improve our soil, water, and other natural resources. Farmers in Othello in Adams County with whom I spoke who are concerned with the regulatory burdens on their shoulders can be assured that this legislation protects producers from costly additional, unnecessary re…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=6A0D5F41-DD00-41DD-A5F9-24BFE6A76170	Ahead of One Year Anniversary of Fatal Train Derailment near DuPont, Senator Murray Remembers Victims and Continues Push for Strengthened Investments in Critical Train Safety Technology	2018-12-17	2018	2018-12	Democrat	House	WA	Patty Murray	M001111	www.murray.senate.gov	legacy	The derailment of Amtrak Cascades train 501 near DuPont, WA, on Dec. 18, 2017, killed three train passengers and injured 70 other people who were either on the train or in their vehicles on I-5 below Senator Murray is pushing at the federal level to implement Positive Train Control (PTC) nationwide, technology that could have prevented the DuPont train derailment A senior member of the Appropriations Committee, Senator Murray has fought for federal support for PTC, including securing significant investments in PTC in the current spending bill Senator Murray: I will not stop demanding answers from federal officials and railroads about the progress of PTC implementation, or holding them accountable for making sure trains are as safe as possible ICYMI: At Senate Hearing, Senator Murray Presses Federal and Amtrak Officials for Update on Implementation of Life-saving Train Safety Technology MORE HERE Tacoma News Tribune Editorial: In the aftermath of the DuPont tragedy, Murray is right to demand answers MORE HERE (Washington, D.C.) Leading up to the first anniversary of the tragic Amtrak Cascades train derailment near DuPont, Washington, U.S. Senator Murray (D-WA) urged her colleagues to strengthen federal investments in technology that could prevent similar train accidents in honor of the train derailment's victims. A senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Senator Murray has fought to increase federal support for Positive Train Control (PTC), safety technology that could have prevented the Cascades derailment which killed three people and injured 70 others, including working to secure new federal investments for PTC implementation in the current transportation spending bill before Congress. The tragic loss of life and injuries caused by last December's train derailment resonated with people from DuPont, Washington, to Washington, D.C. because no family or community should have to experience that type of heartbreak and horrorespecially when technology already exists to help prevent tragedies l…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://dennyheck.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-heck-reacts-to-ruling-against-the-affordable-care-act	Congressman Heck reacts to ruling against the Affordable Care Act	2018-12-15	2018	2018-12	Democrat	House	WA	Denny Heck	H001064	dennyheck.house.gov	legacy	Congressman Denny Heck (WA-10) released the following statement after a federal judge in Texas v. United States struck down the Affordable Care Act, including its protections for people with pre-existing conditions: The fight for affordable health care has morphed into a game of chutes and ladders, said Heck. This misguided ruling represents a spiteful and steep slide down for those of us who want to make health care more affordable and accessible for all Americans. No matter how hard we try to push the conversation forward, we find the basic tenets of the Affordable Care Act under attack by the White House and in the courts. The opponents take calculated steps to undo all that this landmark law was able to do provide Americans with comprehensive, affordable insurance so everyone can access the medical treatment they need to stay healthy. I don't know of any elected official who can sleep at night knowing that they ripped affordable health care away from millions of Americans and also made it increasingly unaffordable for the rest. Policymaking and governing is supposed to be about solutions, not sabotage, and it's past time that President Trump and his allies in Congress come to learn that. On December 14, a federal judge ruled the ACA unconstitutional. This lawsuit was brought by twenty Republican state attorneys general after the deficit-exploding tax scam zeroed out the mandate that everyone carry health insurance. In June 2018, President Trump announced that his administration would not defend the ACA in this lawsuit. Shortly after, Congressman Heck cosponsored H.Res. 1031, a resolution that would allow the House of Representatives to intervene and defend the ACA in Texas v. United States. This ruling will not impact current coverage or 2019 coverage while the case is moving through the courts. Open enrollment for 2019 coverage ends tonight in most states. To enroll, visit Healthcare.gov. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=8EE44F7A-F6CA-45D5-9292-BFFA7993A39F	Senator Murray Statement on Secretary Ryan Zinkes Resignation from the U.S. Department of the Interior	2018-12-15	2018	2018-12	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 his pledges to be a Theodore Roosevelt-like leader on conservation, Mr. Zinke's tenure at Interior proves he was anything but. From rolling back protections for our treasured U.S. monuments, to advancing a foreign mining project in Washington state, Mr. Zinke clearly never had the best interests of our environment or future generations in mind. Instead, his legacy at Interior will be known for scandal after scandal, and selling out to special interests. I'm glad Mr. Zinke is leaving this important post and now I hope President Trump bows to public pressure and nominates someone who will actually put people and the environment first, ahead of the corporations and special interests that view our public lands and natural resources not as something to be preserved, but solely to be used for profit.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://herrerabeutler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=399375	Jaimes Bill to Prevent Maternal Deaths Heads to Presidents Desk	2018-12-14	2018	2018-12	Republican	House	WA	Jaime Herrera Beutler	H001056	herrerabeutler.house.gov	legacy	U.S. Representative Jaime Herrera Beutler's bipartisan bill to prevent maternal deaths is heading to the president's desk to become law after it passed the U.S. Senate last night. share: f t U.S. Representative Jaime Herrera Beutler's bipartisan bill to prevent maternal deaths is heading to the president's desk to become law after it passed the U.S. Senate last night.Jaime's bill, H.R. 1318 Preventing Maternal Deaths Act, passed the U.S. House Tuesday by unanimous voice vote. Passage of this bill through Congress represents a monumental step in addressing our country's maternal health crisis. We should be investigating every single maternal death because every woman is worth it, and this bill will help states do just that, Jaime said. While we can't bring back the mothers we have tragically lost, we can honor their lives by doing everything possible to prevent more women dying during pregnancy, childbirth and postpartum. The rise of maternal mortality in the U.S.: The U.S. has the highest rate of maternal mortality in the developed world, and the rate continues to rise. Between 700-900 women die in the U.S. every year from pregnancy-related and pregnancy-associated deaths. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 60% of maternal deaths are preventable.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/reps-rice-gallagher-and-kilmer-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-increase-accountability-and-transparency-of-political-spending	Reps. Rice, Gallagher & Kilmer Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Increase Accountability and Transparency of Political Spending	2018-12-14	2018	2018-12	Democrat	House	WA	Derek Kilmer	K000381	kilmer.house.gov	legacy	12.14.18 Reps. Rice, Gallagher & Kilmer Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Increase Accountability and Transparency of Political Spending WASHINGTON U.S. Representatives Kathleen Rice (D-NY), Mike Gallagher (R-WI), and Derek Kilmer (D-WA), three of the co-chairs of the Congressional Reformers Caucus, announced the introduction of a bipartisan bill to increase disclosure and accountability of political spending. The Political Accountability and Transparency Act, H.R. 7267, would strengthen coordination rules between super PACs and individual campaigns to ensure that super PACs truly operate independently from candidates, require political advertisements to disclose the top donors to the organization paying for the advertisements, and would apply the personal use restriction on campaign funds to all political committees, including leadership PACs. For too long, we've allowed outside money to play an outsized and shadowy role in our politics, blurring the lines between special interest groups and the candidates they support, said Representative Kathleen Rice. The Political Accountability and Transparency Act will close some of the most gaping loopholes in our campaign finance laws by increasing restrictions and reporting requirements for outside groups. This bipartisan bill will help restore integrity and trust in our nation's political process. The American people deserve to know who is spending hundreds of millions of dollars every election cycle to influence their vote and muddy our politics, said Representative Gallagher. This bipartisan bill is critical to injecting more transparency into our campaign finance system and helping reduce the corrosive influence of dark money in our elections. I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to support this important piece of legislation. Sunlight is the best disinfectant, Rep. Derek Kilmer said. Americans deserve to know who is paying for the political ads they see regardless of how those ads are purchased. The Political Accountability and Transparency Act…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/-cantwell-murray-call-on-federal-government-to-include-firefighters-in-studies-on-health-effects-of-exposure-to-pfas	Cantwell, Murray Call on Federal Government to Include Firefighters in Studies on Health Effects of Exposure to PFAS	2018-12-14	2018	2018-12	Democrat	House	WA	Maria Cantwell	C000127	www.cantwell.senate.gov	legacy	12.14.18 Cantwell, Murray Call on Federal Government to Include Firefighters in Studies on Health Effects of Exposure to PFAS WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and Patty Murray (D-WA) this week joined a bipartisan group of 23 senators in requesting the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) take additional steps to ensure the health effects of occupational exposure to per-and polyfluoralkyl substance (PFAS), particularly in firefighters, are sufficiently studied. Firefighters are a vital component of our nation's emergency response system and risk their lives to protect the communities they serve, the senators wrote. There is a critical need to better understand how PFAS workplace exposure among firefighters may affect the health of these heroes and their families. Cantwell and Murray both supported the establishment of the first-ever nationwide PFAS health impact study in the fiscal year (FY) 2018 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which will be conducted by ATSDR. However, earlier this year, ATSDR Director Patrick Breysse announced that firefighters will not be included in the study. In their letter, the senators requested that the agencies ensure future studies investigating the potential health effects from PFAS exposure include firefighters and others who are more likely to come into contact with the chemicals in occupational settings. Firefighters, both military and civilian, work in environments that have higher exposure to PFAS, which are found in firefighting foam. As you are aware, PFAS chemicals are a byproduct of aqueous film forming foam (AFFF), a fire suppressant agent, and have been linked to a number of adverse human health effects, the senators continued. The potential ties between PFAS and various forms of cancer are of particular concern to military and civilian firefighters across the country who may have experienced long-term occupational exposure to PFAS du…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=64853EAE-EFEA-4427-9623-09A60A0D5C68	Senator Murray: Blatantly Partisan Republican Legal Threat Once Again Jeopardizes Pre-Ex Protections; Families Health Care	2018-12-14	2018	2018-12	Democrat	House	WA	Patty Murray	M001111	www.murray.senate.gov	legacy	Senator Murray urges Republicans who claimed to support pre-existing conditions to show leadership; ensure people are protected from reckless Republican political games (Washington, D.C.) U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), ranking member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, issued the following statement on a ruling jeopardizing health care for tens of millions of people across the country. Thanks to Republicans' nonstop effort to jeopardize health care in our country, tens of millions of people with pre-existing conditions, women in need of affordable birth control, and seniors stretching to afford their prescriptions are worried once again about what the future holds for their health care coverage. Democrats are going to keep fighting to protect care for every patient and family in our country, but let me be clear: this blatantly partisan legal threat shows it's time for every single Republican who claimed this November that they support protections for pre-existing conditions, or care about affordable health care for the people they represent, to prove it by showing some leadership, dropping the harmful partisan politics, and making sure families aren't hurt once again by their party's reckless political games. The ruling comes just one day before the open enrollment deadline for 2019, and families can and should continue to sign up for coverage on the exchanges.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://adamsmith.house.gov/press-releases?ID=53BEE5C7-665E-471B-B6AE-C4DBE926A5DD	Senate Passes Smith Legislation Honoring James Marshall Jimi Hendrix	2018-12-13	2018	2018-12	Democrat	House	WA	Adam Smith	S000510	adamsmith.house.gov	legacy		0	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/kilmer-delbene-bill-to-improve-timber-innovation-passes-house-expected-to-become-law	Kilmer, DelBene Bill to Improve Timber Innovation Passes House, Expected to Become Law	2018-12-13	2018	2018-12	Democrat	House	WA	Derek Kilmer	K000381	kilmer.house.gov	legacy	12.13.18 Kilmer, DelBene Bill to Improve Timber Innovation Passes House, Expected to Become Law Washington, D.C. Representatives Derek Kilmer (D-WA) and Suzan DelBene (D-WA) applauded the passage of important measures in the Timber Innovation Act (H.R. 1380) as part of the 2019 Farm Bill that passed the House of Representatives yesterday evening. Kilmer and DelBene introduced the bipartisan, bicameral legislation which would find new and innovative uses for wood as a building material. The Farm Bill is expected to be signed into law by the president. Following the economic crisis of 2008, rural communities across Washington state saw major job losses throughout the timber industry. Since then, advances have been made showing that tall buildings can be built using cleaner and less expensive materials such as cross-laminated timber (CLT), a hybrid wood panel system that consists of lumber boards that are glued together, and which are stronger and more cost-effective. A greater investment in products like CLT could result in more economic opportunities for rural parts of Washington. Components of the Timber Innovation Act in the Farm Bill include establishing a new performance driven research and development program advancing tall wood building construction. Also included are federal grants to support state, local, tribal, university and private sector education, outreach, and research and development to accelerate the use of wood in tall buildings. DelBene introduced the legislation to spur the use of tall wood building construction those above 85 feet or seven stories through the use of less expensive and cleaner materials like CLT, which will lower our carbon footprint and significantly aid forest health. Building with new wood technologies and wood that is sustainably harvested will lead to more jobs and mills on the Olympic Peninsula and taller, more earthquake-resistant buildings in Seattle, Kilmer said. That's a vision that I call timber 2.0, which is a sustainable plan that will reinvigorate tim…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://larsen.house.gov/press-release/larsen-votes-farm-bill-address-hunger-washington-state-and-support-local-farms	Larsen Votes for Farm Bill to Address Hunger in Washington State and Support Local Farms	2018-12-13	2018	2018-12	Democrat	House	WA	Rick Larsen	L000560	larsen.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. Rep. Rick Larsen (WA-02) issued the below statement after voting for the Farm Bill, which would support Washington's Second Congressional District: The final Farm Bill addresses some of the concerns I raised regarding the House Farm Bill in May. Nearly one in eight Washingtonians suffer from hunger, and this legislation provides important funding to help address hunger in local communities. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) accounts for 80 percent of the 2018 Farm Bill. The final version of the legislation does not include the egregious work requirements which would have placed an undue burden on the more than 34,000 households in Washington's Second District using food stamps to put dinner on the table each night. Instead, the Farm Bill invests in Employment and Training opportunities. In 2016, Washington state's Basic Food Employment and Training program connected over 2,500 volunteer SNAP recipients with skills, training and job experience to improve their employment prospects and reduce reliance on SNAP. Washington state is the most trade-dependent state in the country, thanks in part to agriculture. The Farm Bill is an opportunity for Congress to help Washington state farmers stay competitive in a global market. The Farm Bill includes permanent funding for Value-Added Producer Grants (VAPG), which help farmers in Skagit Valley invest in value-added infrastructure to generate new products and create and expand marketing opportunities. Access to VAPG funding will help farmers stay competitive as they sell Washington-grown crops around the world. Additionally, the bill recognizes the importance of fostering future trade opportunities for local farmers. Agriculture accounts for 12 percent of Washington state's economy, is the state's second largest export and supports 160,000 jobs. This legislation will help local groups develop and expand into overseas markets. During my visits to farms and meetings with agriculture groups, I have heard repeatedly about the need to expand fun…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://mcmorris.house.gov/mcmorris-rodgers-newhouse-joint-statement-responding-to-governor-inslees-announcement-of-taxpayer-funds-to-consider-breaching-snake-river-dams/	McMorris Rodgers, Newhouse Joint Statement Responding to Governor Inslee’s Announcement of Taxpayer Funds to Consider Breaching Snake River Dams	2018-12-13	2018	2018-12	Republican	House	WA	Cathy McMorris Rodgers	M001159	mcmorris.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. (December 13, 2018) Today, Eastern Washington Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers(WA-05) and Rep. Dan Newhouse (WA-04) released the following joint statement on Washington Governor Jay Inslee's proposed $750,000 in the state budget to support evaluation by a state task force of breaching the Lower Snake River dams: The people of Eastern Washington whose livelihoods depend on these dams should not be collateral damage for anyone's presidential ambitions. The Governor does not have the authority to breach our federal dams on the Lower Snake River, and allocating state taxpayers' funds to consider breaching them would be wasteful. Congress has the sole authority to authorize breaching our federal dams, and as representatives of Eastern Washington communities that depend on the many benefits they provide, breaching them is out of the question. We commit to do everything in our power to save our dams. # # #	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-mcmorris-rodgers-joint-statement-responding-wa-governor-s	Newhouse, McMorris Rodgers Joint Statement Responding to WA Governors Announcement of Taxpayer Funds to Consider Breaching Snake River Dams	2018-12-13	2018	2018-12	Republican	House	WA	Dan Newhouse	N000189	newhouse.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON D.C. Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) and Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA) released the following joint statement on Washington Governor Jay Inslee's proposed $750,000 in the state budget to support evaluation by a state task force of breaching the Lower Snake River dams: The people of Eastern Washington whose livelihoods depend on these dams should not be collateral damage for anyone's presidential ambitions. The Governor does not have the authority to breach our federal dams on the Lower Snake River, and allocating state taxpayers' funds to consider breaching them would be wasteful. Congress has the sole authority to authorize breaching our federal dams, and as representatives of Eastern Washington communities that depend on the many benefits they provide, breaching them is out of the question. We commit to do everything in our power to save our dams. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/-cantwell-colleagues-call-for-ferc-commissioner-mcnamees-recusal-from-future-discussions-involving-potential-subsidization-of-coal-nuclear-plants-	Cantwell, Colleagues Call for FERC Commissioner McNamee’s Recusal from Future Discussions Involving Potential Subsidization of Coal, Nuclear Plants	2018-12-13	2018	2018-12	Democrat	House	WA	Maria Cantwell	C000127	www.cantwell.senate.gov	legacy	12.13.18 Cantwell, Colleagues Call for FERC Commissioner McNamee's Recusal from Future Discussions Involving Potential Subsidization of Coal, Nuclear Plants WASHINGTON, D.C. This week, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), the top Democrat on the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, joined 16 of her Senate colleagues in calling for Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) Commissioner Bernard McNamee to recuse himself from any future discussions at the commission involving the potential subsidization of coal and nuclear plants. In the letter, the senators expressed concerns regarding Mr. McNamee's actions in his previous role at the Department of Energy (DOE) in developing and filing a rule to subsidize failing coal and nuclear plants, as well as his recent public comments implying bias against renewable energy technologies. We are concerned about positions you have taken, both while serving as the U.S. Department of Energy's Deputy General Counsel for Energy Policy and in the private sector, the senators wrote. These positions and statements suggest a lack of independence and an inappropriate predisposition on a number of topics likely to be involved in proceedings that will come before you in your new role as a FERC Commissioner. Moving forward, and particularly as FERC considers matters related to grid resilience and reliability, we urge you to remain true to your commitment to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources to be fair, objective, and impartial' and to work with your colleagues to fulfill (FERC's) mission to ensure just and reasonable rates under the law,' the senators continued. With that in mind, we urge you to recuse yourself from any future FERC proceedings where your impartiality could be questioned based upon your past statements, positions, or work on the DOE [Notice of Proposed Rulemaking]. In addition to Senator Cantwell, the letter was also signed by U.S. Senators Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/-cantwells-earthquake-resilience-bill-signed-into-law	Cantwell’s Earthquake Resilience Bill Signed into Law	2018-12-13	2018	2018-12	Democrat	House	WA	Maria Cantwell	C000127	www.cantwell.senate.gov	legacy	12.13.18 Cantwell's Earthquake Resilience Bill Signed into Law Legislation helps states prepare for earthquakes, improve early warning systems WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell's (D-WA) earthquake resilience bill has been signed into law by President Donald Trump. Senator Cantwell, the top Democrat on the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, introduced the National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program Reauthorization Act (NEHRP) to modernize safety programs and help states prepare for and respond to earthquakes, as well as provide important resources to improve earthquake early warning, monitoring, and research. Cantwell's legislation is critical to Washington state, which faces the second highest risk of large and damaging earthquakes in the United States. Earthquakes are inevitable so it's critical that we do all we can to prepare. This legislation will help save lives and protect property in the Pacific Northwest and other areas prone to seismic disaster, said Cantwell. Since 1977, NEHRP has enabled earthquake-prone communities to better prepare and protect themselves by minimizing losses through infrastructure improvements and hazard and risk assessments. This legislation reauthorizes NEHRP and also: Improves earthquake early warning systems - Removes outdated language related to earthquake prediction and emphasizes the continued development of earthquake early warning systems through the Advanced National Seismic System. Helps states prioritize earthquake preparedness - Directs the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to implement a grant program to assist states with incorporating earthquakes in their hazard reduction portfolios. Provides ongoing preparedness assessments and long-term planning - Directs the completion of a comprehensive assessment of the nation's earthquake risk reduction progress, as well as areas that require more fun…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://adamsmith.house.gov/press-releases?ID=EF0EC4BD-3EA4-4768-9FCD-DFAB39BBCE60	Smith Statement on the Farm Bill Conference Report Passage	2018-12-12	2018	2018-12	Democrat	House	WA	Adam Smith	S000510	adamsmith.house.gov	legacy		0	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://delbene.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2410	DelBene, Kilmer Bill to Improve Timber Innovation Passes House, Expected to Become Law	2018-12-12	2018	2018-12	Democrat	House	WA	Suzan DelBene	D000617	delbene.house.gov	legacy	Today, Representatives Suzan DelBene and Derek Kilmer (D-WA) applauded the passage of important measures in the Timber Innovation Act (H.R. 1380) as part of the 2019 Farm Bill that passed the House of Representatives. DelBene and Kilmer introduced the bipartisan, bicameral legislation which would find new and innovative uses for wood as a building material. The Farm Bill is expected to be signed into law by the president.Following the economic crisis of 2008, rural communities across Washington state saw major job losses throughout the timber industry. Since then, advances have been made showing that tall buildings can be built using cleaner and less expensive materials such as cross-laminated timber (CLT), a hybrid wood panel system that consists of lumber boards that are glued together, and which are stronger and more cost-effective. A greater investment in products like CLT could result in more economic opportunities for rural parts of Washington. Components of the Timber Innovation Act in the Farm Bill include establishing a new performance driven research and development program advancing tall wood building construction. Also included are federal grants to support state, local, tribal, university and private sector education, outreach, and research and development to accelerate the use of wood in tall buildings. DelBene introduced the legislation to spur the use of tall wood building construction those above 85 feet or seven stories through the use of less expensive and cleaner materials like CLT, which will lower our carbon footprint and significantly aid forest health. Washington's First District is home to rural communities with economies dependent on forest products, said DelBene. Timber towns across our region have been in desperate need of new good-paying jobs, and the use of mass timber in tall wood buildings will help forge a path to newfound economic growth. By adding key provisions of the Timber Innovation Act into the Farm Bill, we are encouraging the use of innovative green building materials t…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://mcmorris.house.gov/mcmorris-rodgers-celebrates-passage-of-2018-farm-bill-conference-report/	McMorris Rodgers Celebrates Passage of 2018 Farm Bill Conference Report	2018-12-12	2018	2018-12	Republican	House	WA	Cathy McMorris Rodgers	M001159	mcmorris.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. (December 12, 2018) Eastern Washington Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) released the following statement celebrating the passage of the 2018 Farm Bill Conference Report. Right now, our farmers need certainty. They need to know that the farm safety net is intact. That's what this legislation does, said Cathy. The final 2018 Farm Bill includes my top three priorities: protecting crop insurance, supporting trade and market access programs, and increasing our commitment to agriculture research, like the great work being done at Washington State University. Our farmers are the greatest anti-poverty program and have done more to provide food security to the world than any government program. I was proud to support this legislation which supports them. Today, Cathy spoke on the House floor in support of the Farm Bill Conference Report. In case you missed it, you can see her full remarks here: NOTE: At the beginning of the Farm Bill process, Cathy laid out these three priorities to support Eastern Washington's farmers and agriculture industry through hosting a series of Farm Bill Listening Sessions all throughout Washington's 5th Congressional District. This summer, Cathy brought Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue and Chairman of the House Agriculture Committee Michael Conaway (R-TX) to again reiterate the importance of these priorities and let them hear directly from Eastern Washington farmers. In November, Cathy was also recognized with the Friend of Farm Bureau award for herleadershipon policies that benefit farmers and support agriculture. See more by clicking here. # # #	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congress-approves-2018-farm-bill	Congress Approves 2018 Farm Bill	2018-12-12	2018	2018-12	Republican	House	WA	Dan Newhouse	N000189	newhouse.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) released the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives voted 369-47 to pass the 2018 Farm Bill, Conference Report to Accompany H.R. 2 - Agriculture Improvement Act. The legislation now heads to President Trump for his signature into law. Farm Countryhas waited long enough, and todayCongress delivered,saidRep. Newhouse.As a third-generation Yakima Valley farmer, I knowthe Farm Bill plays an enormously important role in Central Washington's agriculture economy by delivering a secure safety net for farmers and providing for research that keeps us on the cutting edgeof global innovation.Farmersare struggling witha 50-percent drop in net farm income over the past five years, which is why market access programsand crop insurance are critical to providing certainty for agriculture producers.While some improvements were made, I would have preferred to include stronger provisions to improve nutrition programs and forestry management. Farmers needed action sooner rather than later.I applaud Chairman Conaway for his hard work in getting thisbillacross the finish line. 2018 Farm Bill Conference Report Highlights: Study to include hops in crop insurance: The Conference Report includes language making hops eligible for crop insurance and directs the Federal Crop Insurance Corporation Board (FCIC) to streamline the process for developing hop insurance policies. The bill requires FCIC to submit a report on hops policies one year after the enactment to the Agricultural Committees that describes the results of the policy developments along with any recommendations. Dairy protection: The Conference Report renames the dairy Margin Protection Program to Dairy Margin Coverage (DMC) and builds on the Bipartisan Budget Act (BBA) investment by offering new coverage levels for the first 5 million pounds of production, drastically reducing premiums on catastrophic coverage levels for larger producers, and eliminating the restriction between the margin program (formerly MPP, no…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=CD6E2974-58F8-4A73-867E-31F54B167533	Senator Murray Cosponsors New Bill to Help Protect Peoples Personal Data Online	2018-12-12	2018	2018-12	Democrat	House	WA	Patty Murray	M001111	www.murray.senate.gov	legacy	The Data Care Act will stop websites and apps from using personal data against users, protect user information from hacks, and hold companies accountable for misuse Senator Murray: New bill makes clear that the companies we entrust with our personal information will not only be held to a higher standard, they will face penalties if they breach our trust (Washington, D.C.) Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), joined a group of 15 senators in introducing new legislation to protect people's personal data online. The Data Care Act would require websites, apps, and other online providers to take responsible steps to safeguard personal information and stop the misuse of users' data. As we see more and more often, consumer data is being used and abused in ways few people had imagined before. Now, it's on Congress to ensure consumer protections keep pace with this changing reality, said Senator Murray. This legislation being introduced today makes clear that the companies we entrust with our personal information will not only be held to a higher standard, they will face penalties if they breach our trust. Doctors, lawyers, and bankers are legally required to exercise special care to protect their clients and not misuse their information. While online companies also hold personal and sensitive information about the people they serve, they are not required to protect consumers' data. This leaves users in a vulnerable position; they are expected to understand the information they give to providers and how it is being usedan unreasonable expectation for even the most tech-savvy consumer. By establishing a fiduciary duty for online providers, Americans can trust that their online data is protected and used in a responsible way. To that end, the Data Care Act establishes reasonable duties that will require providers to protect user data and will prohibit providers from using user data to their detriment: Duty of Care Must reasonably secure individual identifying data and promptly inform users of data breaches tha…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://dennyheck.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-denny-heck-introduces-bill-to-protect-federal-employees-from-unfair	Rep. Denny Heck introduces bill to protect federal employees from unfair taxes on moving expenses	2018-12-11	2018	2018-12	Democrat	House	WA	Denny Heck	H001064	dennyheck.house.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C.Today, Congressman Denny Heck (WA-10) introduced legislation to reverse a portion of the Republican tax scam that designated the moving expenses of federal employees working overseas as taxable income. These moving costs were previously tax exempt, but the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (Public Law No. 115-97) changed any reimbursements of moving costs into taxable income that may force taxpayers to owe thousands of more dollars in taxes to the Internal Revenue Service. The Keeping the Promise to American Public Servants Act would create a tax exclusion for these costs for federal workers, similar to the one in place for servicemembers. If this bill became law, federal workers would not be taxed on overseas moving expenses incurred after December 31, 2017. The Republican tax plan was disastrous for several reasons, and we are just starting to find some of the harmful provisions that snuck their way in, including this irresponsible attempt to make federal employees pay taxes on their overseas moving costs, Heck said. I represent many hard-working federal employees at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, and many who leave their home for honorable public service positions around the world. We should not reverse the commitments we made to them on how their moving expenses are treated by our tax code. If we don't fix this, we could severely damage our ability to recruit and retain skilled federal employees that we need to serve in important international roles. December 22, 2018 will mark one year since the GOP tax bill became law. Since then, the Congressional Budget Office projected that the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act would increase the federal deficit by $1.9 trillion over the next decade. Heck issued a statement following the House passage, pointing out that 36 million American households will have to pay higher taxes despite promises made by President Trump that all Americans will get a tax cut. The full text of H.R. 7254, Keeping the Promise to American Public Servants Act is available on Rep. Denny Heck's website. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://herrerabeutler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=399369	Bipartisan Bill to Prevent Maternal Deaths Passes U.S. House	2018-12-11	2018	2018-12	Republican	House	WA	Jaime Herrera Beutler	H001056	herrerabeutler.house.gov	legacy	U.S. Representatives Jaime Herrera Beutler (R-WA) and Diana DeGette's (D-CO) bipartisan bill to prevent maternal deaths passed the U.S. House by unanimous voice vote today. share: f t U.S. Representatives Jaime Herrera Beutler (R-WA) and Diana DeGette's (D-CO) bipartisan bill to prevent maternal deaths passed the U.S. House by unanimous voice vote today.H.R.1318, the Preventing Maternal Deaths Act, would establish and support state Maternal Mortality Review Committees to review every pregnancy-related or pregnancy-associated death, and based on those findings, develop recommendations for how to prevent future mothers' deaths. Today marks an important day in addressing our country's maternal mortality crisis, as this is the strongest step Congress has taken to date to reverse it. By providing states with resources to investigate every maternal death, we can begin to tackle this troubling trend and take appropriate steps to prevent such tragedies in the future. As moms and lawmakers, this is personal to us, and it was an honor to join with our colleagues on both sides of the aisle to lead this life-saving measure successfully through the House. We must improve our understanding of why mothers are dying in pregnancy, during childbirth and post-partum so we can then unleash every possible resource to protect women in this critical season of life. We hope the Senate will take swift action to pass this critical legislation so we can send it to the President's desk, said U.S. Representatives Jaime Herrera Beutler and Diana DeGette. AMCHP thanks Rep. Herrera Beutler and Rep. DeGette for their leadership in introducing the Preventing Maternal Deaths Act and being tireless advocates for its passage into law. Once all states have adequate resources to expertly review maternal deaths, we can achieve greater success in both honoring the lives of mothers lost and equipping our nation to prevent future deaths during pregnancy or in the year following childbirth, said …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://herrerabeutler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=399370	President Signs Jaimes Tribal Equality Bill into Law	2018-12-11	2018	2018-12	Republican	House	WA	Jaime Herrera Beutler	H001056	herrerabeutler.house.gov	legacy	President Signs Jaime's Tribal Equality Bill into Law Indian tribes will now be allowed to operate distilleries on their land, promising new jobs in Lewis, Thurston Counties f t # e Washington, D.C., December 11, 2018 President Donald Trump signed U.S. Representative Jaime Herrera Beutler's bipartisan bill repealing a prohibition of distilleries on tribal land into law today. Senator Maria Cantwell led the bill's passage in the U.S. Senate last month and Jaime secured passage of her bill in the U.S. House in September. share: f t President Donald Trump signed U.S. Representative Jaime Herrera Beutler's bipartisan bill repealing a prohibition of distilleries on tribal land into law today. Senator Maria Cantwell led the bill's passage in the U.S. Senate last month and Jaime secured passage of her bill in the U.S. House in September.Today, I join the Chehalis Tribe and all others across the country as we celebrate the repeal of a law that strives to bring more equality and sovereignty to Indian tribes, Jaime said. This is a good day for tribal members who can now expand economically in the distillery business and bring new skills training and jobs to our region. Background: An 1834 law had prohibited distilleries on Indian lands. Now tribes, including the Chehalis who first brought this issue to Jaime's attention, will be free to build and operate distilleries on their land, increasing economic development opportunities. The Chehalis Tribe is planning to build and operate a distillery, brewery and restaurant that would bring about 100 new jobs to Southwest Washington.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://herrerabeutler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=399371	Jaimes ACE Kids Act to Improve Health Care for Low-Income, Medically-Complex Kids Passes U.S. House	2018-12-11	2018	2018-12	Republican	House	WA	Jaime Herrera Beutler	H001056	herrerabeutler.house.gov	legacy	U.S. Representative Jaime Herrera Beutler's bipartisan initiative to improve care for children with complex medical conditions on Medicaid passed the U.S. House today. Jaime's initiative, the Advancing Care for Exceptional Kids Act (ACE Kids Act), was included in a broad Medicaid improvement package called the IMPROVE Act. share: f t U.S. Representative Jaime Herrera Beutler's bipartisan initiative to improve care for children with complex medical conditions on Medicaid passed the U.S. House today. Jaime's initiative, the Advancing Care for Exceptional Kids Act (ACE Kids Act), was included in a broad Medicaid improvement package called the IMPROVE Act.Jaime's been a longtime champion, and one of the original cosponsors, of the ACE Kids Act. This legislation ensures kids with complex medical conditions of families who rely on Medicaid can cross state lines to access often life-saving health care. We took an important step today by passing my bill, the ACE Kids Act, that removes barriers families face when trying to get care for their medically-complex children, Jaime said. I've been in the NICU and met families who were faced with the reality of having a sick child, and also have hit hard times economically. I can put too many faces and names to the reality that little kiddos often can't get the care they need. With passage of this bill, we are doing right by our kids regardless of their zip codes, they'll be able to get specialized medical treatment that can often be life-saving. Background: One in 25 children in the U.S. is medically complex with diagnoses like cancer, congenital heart disease, Down syndrome, or others that require consistent care and medical expertise. Of the several million medically-complex children, roughly two million rely on Medicaid. Children who have complex medical conditions represent a small percentage of kids in Medicaid, but account for a large portion of the costs. In order to enhance the critical care for these two mi…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://herrerabeutler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=399372	Bipartisan Bill to Save Salmon On the Columbia River Headed to the Presidents Desk	2018-12-11	2018	2018-12	Republican	House	WA	Jaime Herrera Beutler	H001056	herrerabeutler.house.gov	legacy	The bipartisan Endangered Salmon and Fisheries Predation Prevention Act, led by Reps. Jaime Herrera Beutler (R-WA) and Kurt Schrader (D-OR) in the House, passed out of Congress today and is headed to the President's desk to become law. The legislation gives tribal members and government fish managers the authority to remove sea lions from specific areas of the Columbia River system and its tributaries where they are posing the most harm to endangered salmon, steelhead and other native fish runs. share: f t The bipartisan Endangered Salmon and Fisheries Predation Prevention Act, led by Reps. Jaime Herrera Beutler (R-WA) and Kurt Schrader (D-OR) in the House, passed out of Congress today and is headed to the President's desk to become law. The legislation gives tribal members and government fish managers the authority to remove sea lions from specific areas of the Columbia River system and its tributaries where they are posing the most harm to endangered salmon, steelhead and other native fish runs. Today's passage of our bill to control sea lions was a hard-fought victory it's a personal victory for each of us who treasure our Northwest salmon runs and want to see them preserved for generations to come, said Rep. Herrera Beutler. I'm grateful for the partnership of my colleague Kurt Schrader, and for Senators Risch and Cantwell for shepherding this through the Senate. I'm so pleased we are able to give Northwest fish managers this critical tool to help save our salmon and steelhead runs. This has been an issue that I have worked on since first coming to Congress nine years ago. I want to thank everyone Rep. Herrera Beutler, Senators Risch and Cantwell, and our states, tribes, and local communities for the exceptional work to get this bill over the finish line this year, said Rep. Schrader. In the last few years especially, we've seen a record number of sea lions in the Columbia River from Astoria to Bonneville Dam. Ratepayers and my constituents are …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://mcmorris.house.gov/mcmorris-rodgers-applauds-bill-to-protect-endangered-salmon/	McMorris Rodgers Applauds Bill to Protect Endangered Salmon	2018-12-11	2018	2018-12	Republican	House	WA	Cathy McMorris Rodgers	M001159	mcmorris.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. (December 11, 2018) Today, Eastern Washington Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) supported the Endangered Salmon Predation Prevention Act (S. 3119) in the House to protect endangered salmon on the Columbia and Snake Rivers. This legislation passed the Senate on December 6 and now heads to the president's desk to be signed into law. Eastern Washington believes in both supporting clean, renewable hydropower and protecting our endangered salmon, a species so unique to the history of our region, said Cathy. Over the past 80 years, we've seen steady increases in salmon recovery rates on the Columbia and Snake Rivers, largely due to increased technology and innovation at our dams. This bill is another important step in protecting our endangered salmon. By mitigating sea lion predation we can increase fish recovery without costing Washingtonians hundreds of millions of dollars. NOTE: In March, Rep. McMorris Rodgers joined Reps. Dan Newhouse (WA-04) and Jaime Herrera Beulter (WA-03) in writing this column to advocate for supporting the Columbia and Snake River dams and finding solutions to increase fish recovery efforts. In case you missed it, you can read the joint column here. Cathy also authored a column in the Walla Walla Union-Bulletin in 2016 which further explains the need for this legislation. In it she says, In fact, one of the biggest threats to fish are not the dams, but invasive predators. Many coalitions in support of our dams and fish have made serious efforts to remove invasive predators. To assist in their efforts, I support Representative Jaime Herrera Beutler's (WA-03) legislation, the Endangered Salmon and Fisheries Predation Prevention Act. This legislation removes non-native California seals, which eat salmon as they enter the ocean or when they return to our rivers to spawn. Read the full column here. # # #	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/house-sends-bipartisan-salmon-recovery-legislation-president	House Sends Bipartisan Salmon Recovery Legislation to President	2018-12-11	2018	2018-12	Republican	House	WA	Dan Newhouse	N000189	newhouse.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) released the following statement after the House of Representatives passed S. 3119, theEndangered Salmon Predation Prevention Act, bipartisan legislation aimed at improving the survival of endangered salmon, steelhead and other native fish species in the Columbia River system. The legislation amends the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972 to give state and tribal managers more flexibility in addressing predatory sea lions in the Columbia River system that are threatening both Endangered Species Act-listed salmon and steelhead. S. 3119 is similar to legislation cosponsored by Rep. Newhouse which passed in the House earlier this year. Billions of taxpayer dollars have been spent on salmon recovery in the Pacific Northwest only to see invasive sea lions take a bite out of the population, said Rep. Newhouse. Non-native sea lions have had a severe impact on spring Chinook salmon mortality on the Columbia River. I applaud colleagues in the House and Senate with whom I have worked on legislation in our bipartisan effort toimprove management of pinnipeds threatening salmon. WATCH NEWHOUSE SPEAK IN SUPPORT OF H.R. 2083 EARLIER THIS YEAR	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-applauds-passage-of-farm-bill-secures-key-wins-for-washington-farmers-and-ranchers	Cantwell Applauds Passage of Farm Bill, Secures Key Wins for Washington Farmers and Ranchers	2018-12-11	2018	2018-12	Democrat	House	WA	Maria Cantwell	C000127	www.cantwell.senate.gov	legacy	12.11.18 Cantwell Applauds Passage of Farm Bill, Secures Key Wins for Washington Farmers and Ranchers WASHINGTON, DC U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) applauded final passage of a five-year Farm Bill. The bill includes several key priorities for Washington growers and agriculture producers, including several Cantwell-led priorities to boost production of cross-laminated timber through new uses and innovative uses for wood as a building material, promote pulse crops, and increase export programs for American agriculture products. Passing the Farm Bill is a huge investment in Washington state's agricultural economy. Our crops, including our world leading pulse and specialty crops, will get a boost from hundreds of millions of dollars that will be invested into critical research programs. Timber communities will experience job growth as we promote cross-laminated timber in building construction. And our globally traded agricultural products, like cherries, wheat and apples, which have been harmed by retaliatory tariffs, will see $500 million in new assistance to maintain critical markets and expand opportunities around the globe, said Cantwell. In addition, the bill avoids harmful anti-environment riders as well as rejects harmful benefits cuts and eligibility changes that would take away food and create obstacles for working families. Key Washington priorities included in the 2018 Farm Bill include: Boosts exports for Washington agriculture products: The 2018 Farm Bill expands export opportunities by securing an additional nearly $500 million in permanent funding over the next decade to help farmers find new global markets for their goods. In addition, the bill prioritizes $6 million in a Priority Trade Fund to be used at the discretion of the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture for critical trade programs that have more requests for assistance than available funding, in turn supporting American farmers at no additional cost to the taxpayer. Increases research into pulse crops…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-colleagues-urge-faa-to-implement-and-improve-airport-contract-tower-program	Cantwell, Colleagues Urge FAA to Implement and Improve Airport Contract Tower Program	2018-12-11	2018	2018-12	Democrat	House	WA	Maria Cantwell	C000127	www.cantwell.senate.gov	legacy	12.11.18 Cantwell, Colleagues Urge FAA to Implement and Improve Airport Contract Tower Program WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) joined a bipartisan letter of 35 Senators urging the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to implement a provision in this year's FAA spending bill allowing airports that utilize the contract tower program to become eligible for Airport Improvement Program (AIP) grants from the small airport fund. This provision, which was introduced and included in the recent FAA Reauthorization law, will help enhance air traffic safety at small, rural airports. Not only do these contract towers provide an important safety service, but they do it in a very cost-effective manner, the senators wrote.It is Congress's clear intent that tower construction, improvement, and related equipment should be given priority when deciding which projects should receive grants from the small airport fund. The Airport Improvement Program funds airport development and planning projects by paying for critical infrastructure like runways, taxiways, and safety equipment. In September of this year, Pullman-Moscow Regional Airport received an additional $7 million in funding from AIP for the ongoing construction of a new runway. From 2013-2017, Washington state airports received $380 million from these grants. In addition to Senator Cantwell, the letter was signed by Senators Cortez Masto (D-NV), Jerry Moran (R-KS), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Michael Bennet (D-CO), James Risch (R-ID), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Ed Markey (D-MA), Brian Schatz (D-HI), John Cornyn (R-TX), Bill Nelson (D-FL), John Boozman (R-AR), Doug Jones (R-AL), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Gary Peters (MI), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Steve Daines (MT), Marco Rubio (R-FL), Roger Wicker (R-MS), James Inhofe (R-OK), Tom Cotton (R-AR), Tina Smith (D-MN), Patty Murray (D-WA), Jea…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-secures-bipartisan-bill-to-accelerate-the-use-of-cross-laminated-timber-and-green-buildings	Cantwell Secures Bipartisan Bill to Accelerate the Use of Cross-Laminated Timber and Green Buildings	2018-12-11	2018	2018-12	Democrat	House	WA	Maria Cantwell	C000127	www.cantwell.senate.gov	legacy	12.11.18 Cantwell Secures Bipartisan Bill to Accelerate the Use of Cross-Laminated Timber and Green Buildings Legislation will help spur economic development through the construction of large scale wood buildings WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, Ranking Member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) secured bipartisan legislation in the Farm Bill that promotes new and innovative uses for wood as a building material. The legislation known as the Timber Innovation Act will accelerate the research and development of wood for use in construction projects such as cross-laminated timber (CLT) focusing on the construction of buildings more than 85 feet in height. In March 2017, Senator Cantwell along with Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), ranking member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry, and several of her Senate and House colleagues, reintroduced the Timber Innovation Act bipartisan, bicameral legislation. The Timber Innovation Act will create new jobs across rural Washington by fostering innovation. The building technologies promoted in our bill, like cross-laminated timber, will bring several wins to Washington, including faster construction of buildings, more eco-friendly buildings, and new timber jobs, said Cantwell. Cross-laminated timber is driving the effort to replace concrete with wood in construction. These buildings are faster to construct, more energy efficient, and comprised completely from renewable materials. Wood products have been an integral part of construction for centuries, but most wood buildings do not exceed three to four stories in height. With recent developments in wood products engineering, alongside other new technologies, it is now possible to expand the use of wood into larger construction projects. Passage of the Timber Innovation Act will incentivize investment through the Nationa…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=2663C621-40D3-44A2-96DB-91EE7993D4EE	Senator Murray Continues Fight Against President Trumps Far-Right Judicial Nominees, Opposes Nominee Tied to Fake Womens Health Clinics	2018-12-11	2018	2018-12	Democrat	House	WA	Patty Murray	M001111	www.murray.senate.gov	legacy	In a Senate floor speech, Senator Murray shared her opposition to Circuit Court nominee Jonathan Kobes and laid out why his volunteer work for fake women's health centers is disqualifying Kobes volunteered to help defend a law that interfered in the relationship between providers and patients by requiring providers to give fake information to women seeking reproductive care Kobes is the sixth nominee from President Trump to be rated unqualified by the American Bar Association Senator Murray: I'm going to keep standing up, speaking out, and making clear just how harmful President Trump's ideological nominees are *WATCH SENATOR MURRAY'S FLOOR SPEECH HERE* (Washington, D.C.) Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) outlined her opposition to Jonathan Kobes' nomination to serve on the Eight Circuit Court of Appeals in a speech on the Senate floor. Senator Murray made clear that not only does Mr. Kobes lack the qualifications for the position, but that his past work with fake women's health centersclinics that seek out women looking for information about their health care needs and reproductive rights, and then use misleading or false propaganda to scare and pressure themis utterly disqualifying. In her speech, Senator Murray highlighted the importance of continuing to stand up for women's health care and rights, particularly in light of Judge Kavanaugh's confirmation earlier this year, and made clear she is going to keep fighting against Republican efforts to ram through President Trump's far-right ideological judges. Key excerpts of Senator Murray's speech: Like many of President Trump's nominees before him, Mr. Kobes lacks almost any real experience to qualify him for a seat on the Eighth Circuit Court. He has little trial experience, little appellate experience, and no record of legal scholarship to speak of. And I'm not the only one concerned by thatthe American Bar Association has also rated him unqualified. That makes Mr. Kobes the sixth judicial nominee from President Trump opposed by his profession…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://delbene.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2409	DelBene and Sewell Introduce Legislation Establishing Worker Access to Lifelong Learning and Training	2018-12-10	2018	2018-12	Democrat	House	WA	Suzan DelBene	D000617	delbene.house.gov	legacy	Today, Congresswoman Suzan DelBene and Congresswoman Terri Sewell (D-AL) introduced the Lifelong Learning and Training Account Act. This bill would create a tax-preferred savings account with a generous government match to assist low and moderate-income workers seeking to retrain or upskill over the course of their careers. This legislation was introduced in the Senate by Senator Mark Warner (D-VA).Studies show that in the years ahead, more workers will be forced to learn new skills throughout their careers. The World Economic Forum estimates that by 2020, more than one-third of the core skill sets of most jobs will be skills that are not considered crucial to today's workforce. The Lifelong Learning and Training Account Act would give workers a portable, government-matched savings vehicle for lifelong learning so they can continue to work and provide for their families. As our economy continues to change, workers must have access to the opportunities of tomorrow, said Rep. DelBene. Right now, many hardworking Americans don't have the skillsets to transition into a new job. This legislation will give those folks the tools to retrain and learn new skills so they can keep up with advances in technology and earn a good-paying job. Investing in these workers and helping them further their education will yield benefits that help middle-class families thrive. If we want to grow our economy and create better jobs for American families, we have to invest in our nation's number one asset our workforce, said Rep. Terri Sewell. That means providing our workers with opportunities to learn new skills and transition into competitive jobs in a changing economy. The Lifelong Learning and Training Account Act gives working families the tools they need to save for retraining and continuing education over the course of their careers. For workers in Alabama's 7th District and across the country, today's bill represents a step forward in our fight for better jobs, better pay, and a better future for our families. By 2030, up to one…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://herrerabeutler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=399368	Two of Jaimes Health Care Initiatives Scheduled for a House Vote This Week	2018-12-10	2018	2018-12	Republican	House	WA	Jaime Herrera Beutler	H001056	herrerabeutler.house.gov	legacy	U.S. Representative Jaime Herrera Beutler announced today that two of her initiatives to improve health care for women and children are scheduled for a vote in the U.S. House tomorrow, Tuesday. share: f t U.S. Representative Jaime Herrera Beutler announced today that two of her initiatives to improve health care for women and children are scheduled for a vote in the U.S. House tomorrow, Tuesday. Jaime's bipartisan bill, H.R. 1318 the Preventing Maternal Deaths Act, currently has 185 cosponsors. Her legislation seeks to prevent moms from dying by establishing or supporting Maternal Mortality Review Committees to examine pregnancy-related and pregnancy-associated deaths and identify ways to reduce such tragedies. Jaime has also been a longtime champion and one of the original cosponsors of the Advancing Care for Exceptional Kids Act (ACE Kids Act), which will help improve the coordination of and access to high quality care for children with complex medical conditions on Medicaid. Jaime's ACE Kids Act has been rolled into H.R. 7217 the Improving Medicaid Programs and Opportunities for Eligible Beneficiaries Act (IMPROVE Act) and is also scheduled to receive a full U.S. House vote Tuesday. Jaime's office will be sending additional press releases with quotes following passage of both bills.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-introduces-senate-resolution-recognizing-the-need-to-improve-disability-access-and-infrastructure-in-federally-funded-buildings	Cantwell Introduces Senate Resolution Recognizing the Need to Improve Disability Access & Infrastructure in Federally-Funded Buildings	2018-12-10	2018	2018-12	Democrat	House	WA	Maria Cantwell	C000127	www.cantwell.senate.gov	legacy	12.10.18 Cantwell Introduces Senate Resolution Recognizing the Need to Improve Disability Access & Infrastructure in Federally-Funded Buildings 13 Democratic senators join resolution reaffirming support for ensuring people with disabilities have equal access to federal buildings & government services WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) joined 13 Democratic colleagues to introduce a Senate resolution to highlight the need for improvements in disability access and infrastructure in federally-funded buildings. The resolution also reaffirms support for existing laws that work to ensure equal opportunity for individuals with disabilities, including the Americans with Disabilities Act, which former George Herbert Walker Bush signed into law. The United States was founded on the principles of equality and freedom, and such principles require that all individuals, including individuals with disabilities, are able to engage as equal members of society, the resolution reads. Congress will continue working to identify and remove the barriers that prevent all people of the United States, including people with disabilities, from having equal access to the services provided by the Federal Government. The resolution was sponsored by U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Chris Coons (D-DE), Jack Reed (D-RI), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Patty Murray (D-WA), Bob Casey (D-PA), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), and Mazie Hirono (D-HI). The full resolution can be found HERE and below: Title: Recognizing the need to improve physical access to many federally funded facilities for all people of the United States, particularly individuals with disabilities. Whereas the First Amendment to the Constitution of the United States prevents Congress from making any law resp…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=A626256B-1B98-4D06-9CDA-96753BDB56FA	As Comment Period on Proposed Public Charge Rule Change Closes, Senator Murray Demands Trump Administration Withdraw Proposal That Would Harm Immigrant Families	2018-12-10	2018	2018-12	Democrat	House	WA	Patty Murray	M001111	www.murray.senate.gov	legacy	Senator Murray highlights anecdotes from Washington state in new public comment opposing proposal that would expand definition of public charge, harming public health and well-being Proposed rule change by Department of Homeland Security would place health care and nutrition for millions of families at risk Proposed regulation has caused fear among many immigrants, leading many to forego benefits like food assistance and access to health care they are otherwise eligible for Senator Murray: Proposed rule change that would circumvent congressional authority on immigration law yet another policy authored by the Trump administration that could force immigrants and their families back into the shadows ICYMI: Senator Murray Urges Trump Administration to Rescind Proposed Rule Expanding Definition of Public Charge' MORE HERE (Washington, D.C.) U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), the top Democrat on the Senate health committee, stated her firm opposition to President Trump's proposed public charge rule and demanded the Department of Homeland Security withdraw the proposed regulation in a public comment submitted today to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services during the agency's public comment period. As a voice for Washington state, Senator Murray had previously urged Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen to rescind the Department's proposed rule expanding the definition of public charge, which would require immigration officers to consider an individual's use of public benefits when applying for travel to the U.S. or adjustment of immigration statusa departure from decades of immigration policy that could deter lawful immigrants and their citizen family members from using public benefits they are otherwise eligible to receive. Citing anecdotes from individuals and families in Washington state who have already been adversely affected by the Trump administration's proposed policy shift, in her public comment Senator Murray outlined how the proposed rule change would harm public health and well…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://adamsmith.house.gov/press-releases?ID=250105B7-2832-426F-8AB1-4241743AD507	Smith Statement on Extended Border Deployment	2018-12-07	2018	2018-12	Democrat	House	WA	Adam Smith	S000510	adamsmith.house.gov	legacy		0	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/president-trump-signs-newhouse-bill-honoring-fallen-richland-marine-law	President Trump Signs Newhouse Bill Honoring Fallen Richland Marine Into Law	2018-12-07	2018	2018-12	Republican	House	WA	Dan Newhouse	N000189	newhouse.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) and the Schmieman family released the following statements after President Trump signed legislation into law to designate the U.S. Postal Service facility at 4801 West Van Giesen Street in West Richland, Washington as the Sergeant Dietrich Schmieman Post Office. Rep. Newhouse introduced H.R. 5504 with the support of the entire Washington delegation to honor the life and service of U.S. Marine Sergeant Dietrich Schmieman of Richland, who was serving in the 2nd Raider Battalion at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina when he was tragically killed in a cargo plane crash in Mississippi on July 10, 2017. A designation ceremony for the Post Office with the Schmieman family and Rep. Newhouse will be announced at a later date. Rep. Newhouse: It is an honor to recognize Sergeant Schmieman for his honorable sacrifice. He served to protect our freedom, and I know this Post Office will mean a lot to his community as a reminder of his dedication to our country. Sergeant Schmieman's parents, Susan and Eric, on behalf of the Schmieman family: We are grateful to Washington Representatives, Senators, and their staffs for renaming the West Richland Post Office in honor of our son, USMC Raider Dietrich Schmieman. It is our hope that the renamed facility will remind users not only of Dietrich, but of all those who have served under arms and given their all for our nation. Watch Rep. Newhouse speak in support of his legislation to honor Sgt. Dietrich Schmieman Transcript: I rise today to speak in support of legislation that will commemorate the life and service of a young man from Central Washington who died serving his country, just over a year ago on July 10, 2017. Marine Sergeant Dietrich Schmieman grew up in Richland, Washington with his parents, Eric and Susan, and his two brothers, Aaron and Hans. He attended Christ the King Catholic School, Hanford High School, and Columbia Basin College, where he met friends who would remain close to him throughout his entire life. In 2010, with a world of …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/-cantwell-cosponsored-legislation-to-improve-response-to-missing-murdered-native-women-and-girls-passes-senate	Cantwell-Cosponsored Legislation to Improve Response to Missing, Murdered Native Women and Girls Passes Senate	2018-12-07	2018	2018-12	Democrat	House	WA	Maria Cantwell	C000127	www.cantwell.senate.gov	legacy	12.07.18 Cantwell-Cosponsored Legislation to Improve Response to Missing, Murdered Native Women and Girls Passes Senate According to new report, Seattle leads country in total number of murdered Native women, Tacoma highest number of missing individuals WASHINGTON, D.C. This week, the U.S. Senate passed legislation co-sponsored by U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) to help federal, state, and Tribal law enforcement agencies better respond to disappearances and murders of Indigenous women and girls. The unanimous passage of Savanna's Act, authored by U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp (D-ND), comes only weeks after the Seattle Indian Health Board (SIHB) released a new report that found 506 cases of missing and murdered Native women and girls nationwide. Of the 71 urban areas throughout the United States included in the study, Seattle had the highest total number of missing and murdered individuals, as well as the highest total number of murdered individuals. Tacoma was found to have the highest total number of missing individuals. We can no longer sweep these statistics under the rug, Cantwell said. This problem is more than real it's horrifying. And it must be answered. In an effort to better respond to reports of disappearances or murders of Native women and girls, Savanna's Act would increase coordination efforts across federal departments, Tribes, and states. It would also standardize protocols for responding to reports of missing or murdered Native Americans, improve Tribal access to certain federal crime databases, and require annual reports to Congress on ways to improve the collection of data on these crimes. The legislation is named after Savanna LaFontaine-Greywind, a 22-year-old member of the Spirit Lake Tribe who disappeared on August 19, 2017, while eight months pregnant. Eight days later, her body was found in the Red River north of Fargo, North Dakota. Police determ…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=EEBA71E0-5E48-4705-BEE5-57B00AC8D6A8	TROOPS AT SOUTHERN U.S. BORDER: Senator Murray and Colleagues Slam Trump Administrations Decision to Extend Deployment Through January, Urge Secretary Mattis to Reverse Course Immediately	2018-12-07	2018	2018-12	Democrat	House	WA	Patty Murray	M001111	www.murray.senate.gov	legacy	Senators: Trump administration's lack of transparency on troop deployment should worry all those who are invested in the readiness of our military, its professional use, and the need to keep a bright-line distinction between military and law enforcement ICYMI: Senators Urge Defense Secretary Mattis to End Deployment, Send U.S. Troops Home for Thanksgiving Holiday MORE HERE Washington, D.C. Led by U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), today a group of senators sent a letter to Department of Defense Secretary Jim Mattis, urging the Department to reconsider its decision to extend the deployment of active duty servicemembers currently stationed at the U.S. southern border. Joined by Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Kamala Harris (D-CA), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Edward Markey (D-MA), and Robert Menendez (D-NJ), the letter follows Senators Murray and Schatz's previous request to Secretary Mattis to end the deployment of U.S. troops at the border and allow them to return to their home base for the holidays, as the Trump administration has thus far failed to establish that asylum seekers traveling to the southern U.S. border pose a threat to national security. In their letter, the senators raised several questions and concerns regarding the deployment that the White House still has not answered, and urged the Secretaryabsent justification and substantial transparencyto deny any extension of orders for troops on the southern U.S. border. Many of us have previously detailed our concern with this deployment and use of active duty forces. The administration's rationale for deploying troops was to evoke fear and xenophobia and does not serve a genuine national security purpose. Continuing to rely on active duty troops militarizes the border and normalizes the deployment of active duty forces domestically a dangerous precedent for any democracy, wrote the senators in the letter. Read the full lett…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://mcmorris.house.gov/mcmorris-rodgers-announces-14-million-grant-for-geiger-boulevard-project-5-7-million-for-rural-rail-rehabilitation-project/	McMorris Rodgers Announces $14 Million Grant for Geiger Boulevard Project, $5.7 Million for Rural Rail Rehabilitation Project	2018-12-06	2018	2018-12	Republican	House	WA	Cathy McMorris Rodgers	M001159	mcmorris.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. (December 6, 2018) Today, following a call with Secretary of Transportation Elaine Chao, Eastern Washington Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) announced the approval of $20 million in new federal infrastructure grants for two projects in Eastern Washington, including $14.3 million for the Geiger Boulevard Project in Spokane County and $5.7 million for the Rural Rail Rehabilitation Project in Whitman, Lincoln, and Spokane Counties. By investing in Eastern Washington infrastructure, this Republican administration is again demonstrating their commitment to creating jobs and rebuilding our nation's roads, bridges, and railways,said Cathy.These projects are important to our communities, which is why I worked directly with the Department of Transportation to see them approved and fully funded. The Administration's continued investment in infrastructure promises to stimulate economic investment, improve quality of life, and create safe, reliable transportation in our communities,said U.S. Transportation Secretary Elaine L. Chao. I am very grateful for the work that our federal delegation has done and especially Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers to secure the award of the BUILD grant for the West Plains PDA,said Al French, Spokane County Commissioner. This funding will make more sites shovel ready to support and attract more businesses and more jobs to Spokane. This BUILD grant award reflects the strategic importance of this freight rail system to Washington state's agricultural community and is a recognition of the collaborative partnership between our Congresswoman, Cathy McMorris Rodgers, WSDOT, PCC shippers and other stakeholders,stated Paul Katovich, CEO, of HighLine Grain Growers, Inc. We are very pleased that we can now begin to repair portions of these turn-of-the-century rail lines and preserve our rural economies here in Eastern Washington. NOTE:This round of grants marks more than $85 million in infrastructure funding Cathy has helped secure for Eastern Washington in the last two …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://mcmorris.house.gov/mcmorris-rodgers-bill-to-support-small-business-passes-senate-heads-to-presidents-desk-to-become-law/	McMorris Rodgers Bill to Support Small Business Passes Senate, Heads to President’s Desk to Become Law	2018-12-06	2018	2018-12	Republican	House	WA	Cathy McMorris Rodgers	M001159	mcmorris.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. (December 6, 2018) Today, Eastern Washington Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers's (WA-05) Spurring Business in Communities Act (H.R. 4111) passed the United States Senate and will now head to the president's desk to become law. This legislation passed the House by a voice vote on May 8, 2018, and will help encourage small business development in Eastern Washington. Small businesses are the backbone of our economy, providing two out of every three new jobs in America and serving as afoundation for our communities, said Cathy. Small Business Investment Companies (SBICs) serve an important function in providing capital and support to these job creators, however, there are currently none here in Washington state. My bipartisan bill, which now heads to the president's desk to become law, will make it easier for them to form here in Eastern Washington and invest in our community and local small businesses. This will be Cathy's 7th bill to be signed into law in the last year. In May, when this legislation passed the House, Cathy gave remarks on the House floor about the importance of bringing SBIC's to Eastern Washington. In case you missed it, you can watch her remarks here: NOTE: A 2017 Library of Congress study found that SBIC-backed small businesses created 3 million new jobs and supported an additional 6.5 million. According to the Small Business Administration's most recent report, SBICs reported more than $800 million in financing during the fourth quarter of 2017, and created more than 16,000 jobs. Over the same period, SBICs were able to finance 210 companies across the U.S., including 25 businesses in Low- and Moderate-Income areas, and 12 businesses owned by women, minorities, or veterans. # # #	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/-cantwell-bipartisan-group-of-senators-call-on-secretary-perry-to-stop-unnecessary-delays-over-weatherization-assistance-program-funding	Cantwell, Bipartisan Group of Senators Call on Secretary Perry to Stop Unnecessary Delays over Weatherization Assistance Program Funding	2018-12-06	2018	2018-12	Democrat	House	WA	Maria Cantwell	C000127	www.cantwell.senate.gov	legacy	12.06.18 Cantwell, Bipartisan Group of Senators Call on Secretary Perry to Stop Unnecessary Delays over Weatherization Assistance Program Funding WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) joined a bipartisan group of colleagues in sending a letter to U.S. Energy Secretary Rick Perry, calling on him to stop unnecessarily delaying energy assistance to states from the Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP), which helps low-income households reduce their energy bills to free up limited financial resources for other essentials, such as food and medicine. By delaying the funding, the administration will make it more difficult to get started with weatherization work during the prime weather window for construction, effectively forcing low-income families to spend more of their hard-earned dollars on energy bills. The letter comes after the Department of Energy (DOE) missed an important deadline to deliver information concerning state allocations to WAP grantees. We have long supported this key energy efficiency program and urge the Department to uphold Congress' direction to adhere to a timely process for distribution of both funds and guidance, the senators wrote. We urge DOE to release the FY 2019 WAP guidance and state allocations no later than December 7, 2018, in order to avoid unnecessary delays in services to low-income families and seniors who rely on the energy savings from this program. In their letter, the senators highlighted the $6 million increase in funding for WAP provided by Congress through the annual appropriations bill that was signed into law earlier this fall, which directed the DOE to distribute the funds in a timely manner. The funding bill included provisions directing DOE to distribute grant awards to grantees no later than 60 days after funds are appropriated by Congress, in an effort to prevent undue delays in distributing awards to state and local partners that implement energy initiatives. For more than 40 years, the WAP has enabled famil…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-murray-colleagues-urge-department-of-justice-to-investigate-decision-making-process-for-epstein-case	Cantwell, Murray, Colleagues Urge Department of Justice to Investigate Decision-Making Process for Epstein Case	2018-12-06	2018	2018-12	Democrat	House	WA	Maria Cantwell	C000127	www.cantwell.senate.gov	legacy	12.06.18 Cantwell, Murray, Colleagues Urge Department of Justice to Investigate Decision-Making Process for Epstein Case According to a new Miami Herald investigation, Jeffrey Epstein was given the deal of a lifetime in 2007 when he and then-U.S. Attorney Alexander Acosta entered a non-prosecution agreement. WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and Patty Murray (D-WA), along with 14 of their Senate colleagues, sent a letter to the Department of Justice (DOJ) Inspector General requesting an investigation into the DOJ's decision-making process when then-U.S. Attorney Alexander Acosta entered into a non-prosecution agreement with accused serial sexual abuser Jeffrey Epstein. Questions about Acosta's involvement in the Epstein case were raised during his nomination process for Secretary of Labor; the call for investigations from the DOJ Inspector General comes after new information was brought to light in reporting on the case by the Miami Herald. We are deeply concerned by Mr. Epstein's horrific, serial abuse of children and new revelations about the process by which he was given, to quote the Herald, the deal of a lifetime,' the Senators wrote. It is essential that an independent investigatory office conduct an investigation to determine whether DOJ policies and procedures were followed in this matter. In addition to the request for an independent investigation, the Senators also voiced concern that the plea bargain Acosta struck with Epsteinwhich was kept secret from the victimsviolated the Crime Victims' Rights Act, which provides victims with important protections, including the right to be informed of any plea agreement. Epstein was accused of coercing underage girls into sex acts in his home in Florida and of trafficking dozens of young girls, often from overseas. The non-prosecution agreement required Epstein to only serve 13 months in county prison…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-opposes-ferc-nominee-bernard-mcnamee-on-the-senate-floor	Cantwell Opposes FERC Nominee Bernard McNamee On The Senate Floor	2018-12-06	2018	2018-12	Democrat	House	WA	Maria Cantwell	C000127	www.cantwell.senate.gov	legacy	12.06.18 Cantwell Opposes FERC Nominee Bernard McNamee On The Senate Floor Washington, D.C. Today, Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.) took to the Senate floor to voice opposition to the Trump administration's nominee for the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Bernard McNamee. It's important that the Commission remain independent and impartial because it is a quasi-judicial roleThey need to be impartial making decisions about important energy projects that get built around the United States, said Senator Cantwell. I believe that this nominee, Mr. McNamee, does not meet the standard. I believe that he is too ideologically motivated to continue on what needs to be a fact-based decision-making model on outcomes that affect people's energy rates, said Senator Cantwell. The Commission has to police and regulate energy markets without regard to fuel source, market power or having a political lens. "Their job is not to pick winners and losers in the market. Their job is to determine whether there will be just and reasonable rates for the individual consumers in those markets," said Cantwell. "It's their job to make sure that there aren't excessive prices and that there is true competition in the market, not to favor a high-cost fuel source like coal and try to protect it from other fuel sources that might be more economical for consumers." Trying to prop up uneconomical coal plants for the sake of the reliability of the grid is a fake rationale that the administration tried to use, and it would have impacted the free market and consumers, said Senator Cantwell. Mr. McNamee's words reveal a very strong bias in favor of fossil fuels against renewable energy, said Senator Cantwell. One of the most striking is when he said, the green energy movement is always talking about more government control because it's the constant battle between liberty and tyranny.' And then to say that his son should, just deny climate science' even…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-cantwell-murray-applaud-major-federal-investment-in-geiger-boulevard-infrastructure-project	Senators Cantwell, Murray Applaud Major Federal Investment in Geiger Boulevard Infrastructure Project	2018-12-06	2018	2018-12	Democrat	House	WA	Maria Cantwell	C000127	www.cantwell.senate.gov	legacy	12.06.18 Senators Cantwell, Murray Applaud Major Federal Investment in Geiger Boulevard Infrastructure Project Championed by Senators Cantwell and Murray, $14.3 million federal award will support critical improvements to Spokane's Geiger Boulevard WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee, and Patty Murray (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced a significant federal award to make vital infrastructure improvements to Spokane's Geiger Boulevard. The $14.3 million competitive grant was awarded through the U.S. Department of Transportation's BUILD programformerly known as TIGERand will support several key upgrades to the area that will improve freight and vehicle travel times, increase safety, and spur continued economic development in the greater Spokane region. Overhauling the transportation infrastructure at Geiger Boulevard paves the way to bring nearly 3,000 new jobs and over 600 new housing units in Spokane County. When complete, this project will help businesses throughout the region grow, boost the economy, and create new jobs,said Senator Cantwell. This is a major win for the greater Spokane region. As local infrastructure needs evolve with Spokane's steady growth, federal investments in projects like Geiger Boulevard will upgrade our roads and prepare our communities for the future. I'm proud to see our work in Congress pay off for Spokane-area residents and business, said Senator Murray. In addition, today Senators Cantwell and Murray also announced an additional multi-million dollar BUILD grant that will support key improvements to the Palouse River and Coulee City (PCC) Rail System. More information on the federal award is available HERE. BACKGROUND: Adjacent to I-90 and the Spokane International Airport, the Geiger Boulevard area inc…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/significant-federal-investment-in-critical-eastern-washington-rail-system	Senators Cantwell, Murray Announce Significant Federal Investment in Critical Eastern Washington Rail System	2018-12-06	2018	2018-12	Democrat	House	WA	Maria Cantwell	C000127	www.cantwell.senate.gov	legacy	12.06.18 Senators Cantwell, Murray Announce Significant Federal Investment in Critical Eastern Washington Rail System Championed by Senators Cantwell and Murray, new federal award will support improvements to PCC Rail System, WA's longest short-line freight rail system WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee, and Patty Murray (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced a major new federal investment in the Palouse River and Coulee City (PCC) Rail System. Awarded through the U.S. Department of Transportation'sBUILDprogram (formerly known as TIGER), the grant, totaling more than $5.6 million, was awarded to the Washington State Department of Transportation's (WSDOT) Rural Rail Rehabilitation project, and will support critical improvements to key sections of the 298-mile rail systemincluding replacing or rehabilitating 10 bridges, replacing 4.6 miles of rail, and rehabilitating 20.8 miles of track. The repairs and upgrades funded by this grant will help Washington's farmers get their world renowned products to global markets quickly and efficiently,said Senator Cantwell. This major investment will help ensure Eastern Washington's agricultural community has access to efficient and reliable transportation to our state's ports and other markets, allowing them to remain competitive while also supporting local jobs and enhancing economic development in our rural communities,said Senator Murray.This is great news for Eastern Washington, and I will continue working in Congress to champion this investment program and make sure vital projects like improving the PCC rail system remain a top priority in the other Washington. Agriculture is a vital economic driver in eastern Washington and a viable rail system to transport their products allows growers to remain comp…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=2D3CE0B1-7102-401E-8054-2EB8B536CF6A	SPOKANE: Senators Murray, Cantwell Applaud Major Federal Investment in Geiger Boulevard Infrastructure Project	2018-12-06	2018	2018-12	Democrat	House	WA	Patty Murray	M001111	www.murray.senate.gov	legacy	Championed by Senators Murray and Cantwell, $14.3 million federal award will support critical improvements to Spokane's Geiger Boulevard New Geiger Boulevard development could support more than 3,200 new jobs and over 1,300 new residents Grant awarded through Department of Transportation's BUILD programformerly known as TIGER, and created by Senator Murray in 2009 WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, and Maria Cantwell (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee, announced a significant federal award to make vital infrastructure improvements to Spokane's Geiger Boulevard. The $14.3 million competitive grant was awarded through the U.S. Department of Transportation's BUILD programformerly known as TIGERand will support several key upgrades to the area that will improve freight and vehicle travel times, increase safety, and spur continued economic development in the greater Spokane region. This is a major win for the greater Spokane region. As local infrastructure needs evolve with Spokane's steady growth, federal investments in projects like Geiger Boulevard will upgrade our roads and prepare our communities for the future. I'm proud to see our work in Congress pay off for Spokane-area residents and business, said Senator Murray. Overhauling the transportation infrastructure at Geiger Boulevard paves the way to bring nearly 3,000 new jobs and over 600 new housing units in Spokane County. When complete, this project will help businesses throughout the region grow, boost the economy, and create new jobs, said Senator Cantwell. In addition, today Senators Murray and Cantwell also announced an additional multi-million dollar BUILD grant that will support key improvements to the Palouse River and Coulee City (PCC) Rail System. More information on the federal award is available HERE. BACKGROUND: Adjacent to I-90 and the Spokane International Airport, the Geiger Boulevard area includes more th…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=D39DE28D-E03E-4A94-8D2B-207C4A9550EA	TRANSPORTATION: Senators Murray, Cantwell Announce Significant Federal Investment in Critical Eastern Washington Rail System	2018-12-06	2018	2018-12	Democrat	House	WA	Patty Murray	M001111	www.murray.senate.gov	legacy	Championed by Senators Murray and Cantwell, new federal award will support improvements to PCC Rail System, WA's longest short-line freight rail system Serving 5 Eastern Washington counties, rail system upgrades would improve reliability, reduce maintenance, and increase safety Grant awarded through Department of Transportation's BUILD programformerly known as TIGER, created by Senator Murray in 2009 WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, and Maria Cantwell (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee, today announced a major new federal investment in the Palouse River and Coulee City (PCC) Rail System. Awarded through the U.S. Department of Transportation's BUILD program (formerly known as TIGER), the grant, totaling more than $5.6 million, was awarded to the Washington State Department of Transportation's (WSDOT) Rural Rail Rehabilitation project, and will support critical improvements to key sections of the 298-mile rail systemincluding replacing or rehabilitating 10 bridges, replacing 4.6 miles of rail, and rehabilitating 20.8 miles of track. This major investment will help ensure Eastern Washington's agricultural community has access to efficient and reliable transportation to our state's ports and other markets, allowing them to remain competitive while also supporting local jobs and enhancing economic development in our rural communities, said Senator Murray. This is great news for Eastern Washington, and I will continue working in Congress to champion this investment program and make sure vital projects like improving the PCC rail system remain a top priority in the other Washington. The repairs and upgrades funded by this grant will help Washington's farmers get their world renowned products to global markets quickly and efficiently, said Senator Cantwell. Agriculture is a vital economic driver in eastern Washington and a viable rail system to transport their products allows growers to rema…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://larsen.house.gov/press-release/larsen-fix-dakota-creek-industries-signed-law	Larsen Fix for Dakota Creek Industries Signed into Law	2018-12-05	2018	2018-12	Democrat	House	WA	Rick Larsen	L000560	larsen.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, D.C. Rep. Rick Larsen (WA-02) today applauded the signing of the Frank LoBiondo Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2018, which will save hundreds of jobs at Dakota Creek Industries (DCI) in Anacortes. Yesterday, I had the chance to meet with the hard-working women and men of Dakota Creek Industries to celebrate the passage of the Coast Guard Authorization Act and to recognize the importance of shipbuilding to Washington state's economy, said Larsen. The employees at Dakota Creek support an industry that creates good jobs, strengthens national defense, fosters innovation and contributes to the maritime economy in Washington state and Alaska. I am proud to stand with the women and men of Dakota Creek to finally secure a Jones Act solution. Larsen has been a strong advocate for Dakota Creek Industries. The Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2018 includes a Jones Act waiver for the 264-foot America's Finest vessel, subject to Coast Guard review, which will provide higher performance and increased safety for the crew. The Jones Act places requirements on the amount of foreign-made steel allowed in construction of fishing vessels in an effort to promote U.S.-built and flagged vessels. Larsen has successfully included the waiver for DCI twice in related House-passed legislation. I appreciate the coordination with Senator Cantwell, Senator Sullivan and Rep. Don Young as we have worked non-stop to find avenues to save hundreds of jobs on the line, said Larsen. The U.S. Coast Guard will now undertake a 30-day review of whether the shipyard or purchaser knew components used in the manufacturing of the vessel violated Jones Act requirements. This has been a very difficult and stressful two years for Dakota Creek, and the signing of this bill is a huge relief for all our employees. We now can get back to work serving our valued customers with the support of our many suppliers throughout the region. We wish to express our sincere gratitude to Senator Maria Cantwell, Senator Dan Sullivan and Congressman Don Young for th…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=E6AF07D0-7A37-4C3C-806F-539CB0795067	Senator Murray Statement on the Funeral of President George H.W. Bush	2018-12-05	2018	2018-12	Democrat	House	WA	Patty Murray	M001111	www.murray.senate.gov	legacy	(Washington, D.C.) Today, after attending the state funeral for former U.S. President George Herbert Walker Bush, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) released the following statement: From his courageous sacrifice as a Navy pilot during World War II, to his landmark advocacy for people with disabilities, to his dedication to giving back through his Points of Light Foundation, President Bush lived his life as a testament to the enduring values of public service and putting your country before yourself. As people in Washington state and around the globe mourn the passing of our nation's former leaderone of the last of our greatest generation'I too send my thoughts and condolences to the Bush family and urge all of us to aspire to the dignity, civility, and service that President Bush modeled throughout his long, remarkable life.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://adamsmith.house.gov/press-releases?ID=8DB7C3D0-DF5E-4F51-A053-F3FCED7AB04C	Smith Statement on Trump INF Treaty Decision	2018-12-04	2018	2018-12	Democrat	House	WA	Adam Smith	S000510	adamsmith.house.gov	legacy		0	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://jayapal.house.gov/media/press-releases/jayapal-announces-gautam-raghavan-chief-staff	Jayapal Announces Gautam Raghavan As Chief of Staff	2018-12-03	2018	2018-12	Democrat	House	WA	Pramila Jayapal	J000298	jayapal.house.gov	legacy	Seattle, WA- Today, Representative Pramila Jayapal (WA-07) announced Gautam Raghavan as her new Chief of Staff. Raghavan currently serves as Executive Director of the Indian American Impact Project & Fund and as an advisor to the Biden Foundation. He previously served as Vice President of Policy for the Gill Foundation, the nation's oldest funder of LGBTQ Civil Rights Advocacy. From 2011 to 2014, Raghavan served as President Barack Obama's liaison to the LGBTQ community as well as the Asian American & Pacific Islander community, and from 2009 to 2011, as Acting White House Liaison for the U.S. Department of Defense and as Outreach Lead for the Pentagon's Don't Ask, Don't Tell Working Group. A first-generation immigrant, Raghavan was born in India, raised in the Seattle area, and graduated from Stanford University. Since joining Congress, Representative Jayapal quickly established herself as a bold, unapologetic, national voice for progressive values. With so much at stake, I can think of no better place to fight for a more just, fair, and prosperous future than at her side, said Raghavan. I'm honored to have the opportunity to support her leadership and work with her highly capable and passionate team. My goals in the 116th Congress will continue to be stand for a bold, progressive agenda that ensures opportunity. The progressive movement has never been stronger, and I look forward to translating that into real wins for working people, women, immigrants, those living in poverty and the most marginalized, said Rep. Jayapal. I'm thrilled to have Gautam, a fellow Seattleite, joining our exceptional team. I know his experience and leadership will continue guiding our office as we fight for real progressive change in Washington and across our country in hopes of creating a fairer and more just country. I also want to thank Carmen Gallus Frias for her tremendous service as my Chief in my first term. She has been a true asset for me and the people of the 7th District.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-congratulates-kennewick-high-school-student-winners	Newhouse Congratulates Kennewick High School Student Winners of Congressional App-Design Challenge	2018-12-03	2018	2018-12	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 2018 App Challenge, an app competition for K-12 students. Two Kennewick High School 11th graders, Nikhil Devanathan and Aiden Arends, both 16 years-old, have been named the competition winners. Their winning app, named Wallet Wise, teaches players how to manage a balanced personal budget to encourage prudent fiscal decision making. You can see a preview of the winning app by clicking here. Congratulations to Nikhil Devanathan and Aiden Arends, whose winning app creates realistic scenarios to encourage users to maintain a budget over a 12-month period, said Rep. Newhouse. I am impressed by the technical know-how, creativity, and persistence demonstrated by everyone who submitted apps to this year's competition. Our high school students are the innovators of tomorrow, and Central Washington can be proud to cultivate the success of these hard-working young people. The winning app was selected by a panel of local judges and will receive a prize tour of Pacific Northwest National Laboratory. The winners will also share $250 in Amazon Web Services credits donated by Amazon for the challenge. The winning app will be featured on a video display in the U.S. Capitol building, as well as House.gov and the Congressional App Challenge website. The second place app, Invasion Defenders, was designed by Maxwell Fischer (Southridge High School/Tri-Tech Skills Center, Kennewick), Roger Hays (Southridge High School/Tri-Tech Skills center, Kennewick), and Elijah Saba (Homeschool/Columbia Basin College, Pasco). The app is a strategy game that requires players to use a tactical approach in a battle scenario when the defending side is at a disadvantage. The third place app, Civilization Defense Unlimited was designed by Jeremiah Templeton (Kamiakin High School/Tri-Tech Skills Center, Kennewick)), Nathan Weis (Mid-Columbia Partnership/Tri-Tech Skills Center, Kennewick), and Aaron Wiens (Mid-Columbia Partnership/Tri-Tech Skills Center,…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns-and-op-eds/column-remembering-our-41st-president	COLUMN" Remembering Our 41st President	2018-12-03	2018	2018-12	Republican	House	WA	Dan Newhouse	N000189	newhouse.house.gov	legacy	The passing of President George Herbert Walker Bush on last Friday evening calls us to reflect on the actions and character of this outstanding public servant. Born with wealth and a powerful family name, Bush chose to dedicate himself to service greater than himself. He once said, "The American Dream means giving it your all, trying your hardest, accomplishing something. And then I'd add to that, giving something back. No definition of a successful life can do anything but include serving others." Bush was spurred to sign up for military service by the Japanese sneak attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941, and he joined the U.S. Navy the following year as soon as he turned 18. During World War II he flew Navy torpedo bombers, and his plane was shot down during a mission. Rescued from sea, he would receive a Distinguished Flying Cross for heroism under fire. Bush was the last president to have served in that conflict. Bush served our nation in a multitude of roles and always faithfully. He won elected office in Congress, then served as U.S. envoy to China and ambassador to the United Nations. He was appointed to lead the Central Intelligence Agency as Director under President Gerald Ford. President Ronald Reagan tapped him for Vice President after a bruising presidential primary. Elected president in 1988, President Bush led the U.S. in a world that seems unrecognizable from that of today. History will show that he was a steady hand during global challenges and crises, from the reunification of Germany to the impending dissolution of the Soviet Union. His diplomatic skills enabled him to lead a global coalition to oust Saddam Hussein's invading armies from Kuwait. Bush started a post-presidency initiative to encourage volunteerism, believing that fellow citizens can serve as a thousand points of light to help our communities. He had no doubt that the future of the United States of America was a bright one: "I do not mistrust the future; I do not fear what is ahead. For our problems are large, but our heart is larger." Ge…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://dennyheck.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/bankshot-the-one-banking-bill-congress-might-actually-pass-next-term	Bankshot: The one banking bill Congress might actually pass next term	2018-12-02	2018	2018-12	Democrat	House	WA	Denny Heck	H001064	dennyheck.house.gov	legacy	Conventional wisdom says that it's going to be a tall order to pass banking legislation next term, but there just might be a key exception. One measure to watch will be a legislative fix for banks with customers in the legal marijuana business. While success is certainly not guaranteed, a narrow safe harbor for financial institutions in states where cannabis is now permitted is beginning to draw wide support from industry officials as well as from lawmakers on both sides of the aisle. As chatter picks up, such a provision could find its way to passage in what may be an otherwise deadlocked term. As long as this issue is framed as a targeted and technical fix intended to clarify states' rights, I think it has a path to passage in the next Congress, said Isaac Boltansky, a policy analyst at Compass Point Research & Trading, who puts the odds of seeing a targeted safe harbor approved at around 75%. Of course, there will still be hurdles. With Congress divided next term, Republicans and Democrats will need to come to an agreement on what exactly a pot banking fix might entail and how comprehensive a potential carve-out should be. Should legislation, for example, address the steep compliance costs banks face in this market due to requirements that they file suspicious activity reports for state-licensed businesses? It's hard to think of an issue that ought to be an easier, bipartisan slam dunk than cannabis banking, but there are a couple of significant obstacles, said Aaron Klein, a fellow at the Brookings Institution. Klein noted, for example, that if the political debate turns from addressing specific business concerns to a broader fight over the legality of pot at the federal level, that's likely to make a targeted fix significantly more difficult. It's also unclear whether the vocal minority of mostly Republican lawmakers who strongly oppose marijuana legalization will block more targeted efforts from passage. Lawmakers on the banking committees in both chambers will also be busy with impending deadlines …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://mcmorris.house.gov/mcmorris-rodgers-mourns-the-passing-of-president-george-h-w-bush/	McMorris Rodgers Mourns the Passing of President George H. W. Bush	2018-12-01	2018	2018-12	Republican	House	WA	Cathy McMorris Rodgers	M001159	mcmorris.house.gov	legacy	I will keep America moving forward, always forward, for a better America, for an endless enduring dream and a thousand Points of Light. This is my mission, and I will complete it. -President George H. W. Bush WASHINGTON, D.C. Eastern Washington Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) released the following statement mourning the passing of former President George H. W. Bush. A few months after saying a tearful goodbye to a beloved First Lady, our nation mourns again for President George H. W. Bush. After a decade of Cold War, President Bush was the face of a new era, a stronger era, with America at the helm. We were tasked with being an example to the world that true prosperity can't be bought with wars or suppression it comes from freedom and the opportunity to pursue. Passionate, yet graceful, he fought always for a better America, for an endless enduring dream, and a thousand points of light.' This is a mindset that President Bush carried with him throughout his presidency. In a grand Rose Garden ceremony 28 years ago, he signed into law the landmark legislation, the Americans with Disabilities Act. This historic bill gave more than 50 million Americans with disabilities, just like my son Cole, the chance to live the American Dream and be defined only by their potential not their limitations. I will forever be grateful for his leadership. President Bush had a storied career of service to our country, even when it meant putting personal ambitions on hold. He loved America, but more importantly, he loved his family. The hole in our hearts left by President Bush and his wife Barbara's passing is filled with the joy of knowing they now walk with our Creator. May God bless the Bush family. # # #	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-statement-passing-president-george-h-w-bush	Newhouse Statement on Passing of President George H. W. Bush	2018-12-01	2018	2018-12	Republican	House	WA	Dan Newhouse	N000189	newhouse.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON D.C. Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) released the following statement after the passing of President George H. W. Bush: President George Herbert Walker Bush served this nation in a multitude of roles and always faithfully. From his military service during World War II, his service in Congress, his ambassadorship, his time leading the Central Intelligence Agency as Director, his service as Vice President, and finally his Presidency, he dutifully faced many of the 20th Century challenges of our country. He leaves a legacy of public service. As Americans, we are grateful for the leadership his life demonstrated and that he is now reunited with his beloved Barbara.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-statement-on-the-passing-of-president-george-hw-bush	Cantwell Statement on the Passing of President George H.W. Bush	2018-12-01	2018	2018-12	Democrat	House	WA	Maria Cantwell	C000127	www.cantwell.senate.gov	legacy	12.01.18 Cantwell Statement on the Passing of President George H.W. Bush Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) released the following statement on the passing of President George Herbert Walker Bush: From his service in World War II to his work navigating the end of the Cold War, President George H.W. Bush dedicated more than 70 years of his life to our country and to trying to make the world a better place. Countless Americans have been inspired by his leadership, grace, and kindness. My thoughts are with the entire Bush family. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://jayapal.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressional-progressive-caucus-leaders-call-no-border-wall-funding-humane	Congressional Progressive Caucus Leaders Call for No Border Wall Funding, Humane Immigration System in Government Funding	2018-11-30	2018	2018-11	Democrat	House	WA	Pramila Jayapal	J000298	jayapal.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, DC Today, U.S. Representatives Mark Pocan (WI-02) and Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Co-Chairs of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, released the following statement regarding ongoing discussions about Congress' December 7th deadline to fund the government. Congress cannot continue to stand by while President Trump relentlessly attacks immigrant communities. As negotiations continue over the FY19 DHS spending bill, we urge House and Senate Democratic leadership to hold strong in providing zero funding for Trump's ill-conceived border wall, reducing funding for detention beds, and curbing inhumane border and interior enforcement. Members of the Congressional Progressive Caucus have been unwavering in our call for a fair immigration process that upholds the dignity of all individuals. We will continue to oppose policies and funding levels that move us away from this goal and perpetuate harm against immigrant families.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-ties-knot-ms-joan-galvin	Newhouse Ties Knot with Ms. Joan Galvin	2018-11-30	2018	2018-11	Republican	House	WA	Dan Newhouse	N000189	newhouse.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON D.C. Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) released the following statement after exchanging vows of marriage with Ms. Joan Galvin. Rep. Newhouse and Ms. Galvin were married today after the conclusion of House votes. The couple was accompanied by a small group of family and friends as witnesses. The ceremony was held in the Congressional Prayer Room in the U.S. Capitol and officiated by the Chaplain of the U.S. House of Representatives, Reverend Patrick J. Conroy, S.J. I am overjoyed and truly blessed to be starting this new chapter of my life with Joan, said Rep. Newhouse. We are so grateful for the support and love of our friends, family, and everyone celebrating with us in spirit. Click here for photos. In October, Rep. Newhouse and Joan Galvin publicly announced their engagement. Click here to read the story in the Tri-City Herald and here to read the story in the Yakima Herald Republic.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://reichert.house.gov/press-release/reichert-brady-statements-signing-usmca	Reichert, Brady Statements on Signing of the USMCA	2018-11-30	2018	2018-11	Republican	House	WA	Dave Reichert	R000578	reichert.house.gov	legacy	Washington, DCToday, House Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee Chairman Dave Reichert (R-WA) and Committee Chairman Kevin Brady (R-TX) released the following statements after the United States, Mexico, and Canada formally signed the new US-Mexico-Canada Agreement. Trade Subcommittee Chairman Reichert stated: Throughout my time in Congress I have been proud to champion trade agreements that help American businesses, workers, and farmers sell their goods and services around the world. With today's signing of an updated agreement with our North American partners, I urge the Administration to continue to work with my colleagues to ensure the agreement meets the standards laid out by Congress and is ultimately successful. A modernized agreement that increases opportunities to sell more goods and services and provides certainty for American businesses is key to the over 248,000 jobs in my home state that depend on trade with Canada and Mexico. I thank Ambassador Lighthizer and his team for their work on this agreement. Chairman Brady added: A trilateral agreement to update and modernize NAFTA for the 21st century can be a big win for America's workers, farmers, and ranchers. With today's signing by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, we are carefully analyzing this text in the open and transparent process that Congress created under our new trade rules. There is no doubt that President Trump has delivered on his promise to obtain many provisions that will increase our ability to sell more American goods and services. But as I've said throughout the negotiations, for USMCA to gain widespread support, it must increase certainty as to the durability of the agreement, be fully enforceable to hold our trading partners accountable across all sectors, and increase not diminish our ability to sell into these markets. I look forward to continuing to consult with the Trump Administration as we look closely at these important questions.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=17177FD4-1C5F-4B68-9F75-9DA922401F6F	Following Debacle at VA to Process Delayed G.I. Bill Benefits, Senator Murray Demands Answers and Urgent Action from Trump Administration to Help Veterans Seeking Relief	2018-11-30	2018	2018-11	Democrat	House	WA	Patty Murray	M001111	www.murray.senate.gov	legacy	In two new letters today to VA Secretary Wilkie and VA Inspector General Missal, Senator Murray demands internal investigation into VA's withholding Post 9/11 G.I. Bill benefits and clarification on VA's next steps to reimburse veterans' missed payments Hundreds of thousands of veterans receiving G.I. Bill benefits are believed to have been impacted by VA's processing delays Actions follow Senator Murray's previous request for VA to immediately address it's severe backlog of living stipend and tuition payments for veterans receiving Forever G.I. Bill benefits Senator Murray: I will not ease up until every last veteran has the correct G.I. Bill payment that they earned in their service to our country ICYMIfrom November 14th: As Veterans Seek Relief from Mounting Housing and Education Expenses, Senator Murray Calls For Increased Transparency and Action at VA to Process Delayed G.I. Bill Benefits MORE HERE WA's Kitsap Sun: Olympic College students feeling the pinch from delayed G.I. Bill benefit payments LINK (Washington, D.C.) As a follow-up to her previous demands for the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to immediately process delayed G.I. Bill benefits for veterans, today U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), top Democrat on the Senate education committee and a senior member of the Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee, took new action to address the Trump administration's lack of urgency and transparency to resolve this crisis and hold officials accountable for processing veterans' delayed payments and implementing the bill according to Congress' intentions. Senator Murray's latest actions come after her efforts earlier this month urging VA to take immediate action to address the severe backlog of living stipend and tuition payments for veterans receiving Forever G.I. Bill benefits. The VA needs to fix this problem, and fast. It's absolutely unacceptable to put the burden of delayed benefits onto the backs of the very men and women who served our country, so I'm demanding information from the VA's watchdog…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://adamsmith.house.gov/press-releases?ID=2FA992EE-DB80-4900-BD4E-DDD6F29FA65F	Smith, Murray, Cantwell and Jayapal Call for Answers and Transparency in Death of Asylum Seeker at Northwest Detention Center	2018-11-29	2018	2018-11	Democrat	House	WA	Adam Smith	S000510	adamsmith.house.gov	legacy		0	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://adamsmith.house.gov/press-releases?ID=62DC8EC0-7AE7-4ADA-A772-CBCA849150F6	Smith, Cantwell, Murray and Jayapal Request Inspector General Investigations into Conditions at the NWDC	2018-11-29	2018	2018-11	Democrat	House	WA	Adam Smith	S000510	adamsmith.house.gov	legacy		0	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://herrerabeutler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=399363	Jaime Introduces Legislation to Enact Sensible Clean Water Protection, Protect Responsible Landowners	2018-11-29	2018	2018-11	Republican	House	WA	Jaime Herrera Beutler	H001056	herrerabeutler.house.gov	legacy	Jaime Introduces Legislation to Enact Sensible Clean Water Protection, Protect Responsible Landowners Bill replaces controversial Waters of the U.S. rule with common sense definition of navigable waters" f t # e Washington, D.C., November 29, 2018 Today, U.S. Representative Jaime Herrera Beutler introduced a bill to repeal the controversial Waters of the United States (WOTUS) Rule and clarify that the Clean Water Act remains in effect as it has been interpreted for more than four decades. share: f t Today, U.S. Representative Jaime Herrera Beutler introduced a bill to repeal the controversial Waters of the United States (WOTUS) Rule and clarify that the Clean Water Act remains in effect as it has been interpreted for more than four decades. The current WOTUS rule expands the definition of navigable waters under the Clean Water Act to include water that is not navigable under any previous interpretation or common sense definition, including seasonal wet spots, puddles and small man-made ditches. WOTUS would require private landowners with such puddles and ditches on their property to obtain costly Clean Water Act permits when improving their land, costing thousands of dollars and years of wait time. Jaime's bill would clarify that navigable waters includes territorial seas, interstate waters that are navigable-in-fact, tributaries to the interstate, navigable-in-fact waters, and wetlands that have a continuous surface water connection to interstate, navigable-in-fact waters or their tributaries. The legislation also blocks the federal government's ability to grant itself the unprecedented authority to regulate seasonal wet areas, ponds, puddles and ditches as navigable waters, whether on public or private property. The bill, titled …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z

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Press releases

1,625 rows where state = "WA" and year = 2018 sorted by date descending

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