url,title,date,year,month,party,chamber,state,member_name,bioguide_id,domain,scraper,source,date_source,text,has_text,collected_at,updated_at
https://aderholt.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/aderholt-applauds-administrations-decision-protect-north-alabama-jobs,Aderholt Applauds Administration's Decision to Protect North Alabama Jobs,2011-12-29,2011,2011-12,Republican,House,AL,Robert B. Aderholt,A000055,aderholt.house.gov,aderholt,https://aderholt.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 29, 2011

CONTACT: Anne Marie Malecha, anne_marie.malecha@mail.house.gov or 202.841.0796

Aderholt Applauds Administration’s Decision to Protect North Alabama Jobs

Changes to GSP Trade Provision Ensure Manufacturing Jobs Can Remain in the U.S.

Washington, D.C. — Congressman Robert Aderholt (AL-04), today released the following statement after the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) announced a common-sense policy fix to the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP):

“The changes to GSP announced today, bring great news for jobs in the state of Alabama,” said Aderholt. “American sleeping bag manufacturers like Exxel Outdoors, who have struggled with the uncertainty of whether they can continue to afford to do business within the United States, no longer face that fear.”

“For months Americans have been looking to Washington to allow businesses to retain and create jobs through deregulation and balanced trade agreements that level the playing field for American businesses to compete. Fixing GSP is a great way to start.""

""GSP is not just some abstract trade law that affects companies overseas, but an important trade policy that affects jobs right here in North Alabama and allows for companies like Exxel to return good paying jobs back to the United States.”

“In today's global economy, trade is important to economic growth and success. However, a loophole in GSP has been hurting American sleeping bag manufactures, until today. GSP was designed to be a mutually beneficial trade program between the US and friendly developing nations, and was specifically intended to not harm U.S. domestic manufacturing.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:13:05Z
https://aderholt.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/aderholt-introduces-rural-postal-service-preservation-act,Aderholt Introduces Rural Postal Service Preservation Act,2011-12-21,2011,2011-12,Republican,House,AL,Robert B. Aderholt,A000055,aderholt.house.gov,aderholt,https://aderholt.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 21, 2011

CONTACT: Anne Marie Malecha, 202.225.4876

Aderholt Introduces Rural Postal Service Preservation Act

Legislation Would Ensure the United States Postal Service Continues Delivery Service to Rural Regions

Washington, D.C.— Congressman Robert Aderholt (AL-04), today released the following statement after introducing H.R. 3744, the Rural Service Preservation Act in the United States House of Representatives:

“As the United States Postal Service’s financial picture continues to grow dim and options of reform are being discussed, I along with so many across the nation are increasingly concerned about the prospect of the postal service ending delivery to rural regions,” said Aderholt.

“As the postal service looks for reform and cost-cutting solutions, I believe rural Americans should not be singled out for postal cuts. To make sure that does not happen, I’ve introduced legislation that would ensure rural delivery continues and directs the postal service not to target rural postal employees for buy-out retirements.”

“This legislation is vital to the many rural communities of North Alabama and elsewhere across the country. I hope that my colleagues join me in recognizing the importance of this issue to America’s rural regions and support H.R. 3744,” concluded Aderholt.

Details of H.R. 3744

Ensures that the current level of postal delivery service continue for five years from enactment.

Requires any buy-out used to cut workforce of postal employees be apportioned 10% rural 90% urban.

Requires that any postal office closures also be made in the same 10% rural, 90% urban differential.

Defines rural areas with reference to the most recent decennial census and definitions of “rural” from the 2002 and 2008 Farm bills.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:13:05Z
https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=2B213EB6-362A-4C75-9883-20A6A2A03FEE,Representative DesJarlais Statement on Deal to Extend the Payroll Tax Cut,2011-12-21,2011,2011-12,Republican,House,TN,Scott DesJarlais,D000616,desjarlais.house.gov,desjarlais,https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center,scraper,"Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) issued the following statement upon the announcement that the House and Senate have reached a deal to extend the payroll tax break for two months:

“The House passed a responsible, bipartisan bill that provided a year-long payroll tax reduction; extended and reformed unemployment insurance; preserved senior’s access to healthcare by preventing a 27% cut to doctors treating Medicare patients; and advanced measures that will boost private-sector job creation.

“Rather than use this bill as a template to work from, the Senate simply refused to take part in the normal legislative process. It is disappointing that since the Senate failed to do their job, we will now have to have this debate again in two months. I will continue to fight for long-term solutions that will provide economic certainty for both American workers and American businesses.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:13:05Z
https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases/myth-busting-senates-bad-policy,Myth-busting the Senate's bad policy,2011-12-20,2011,2011-12,Republican,House,NV,Mark E. Amodei,A000369,amodei.house.gov,amodei,https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases,scraper,"IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Brian Baluta (202) 225-6155

December 20, 2011

AUDIO: Another two-month extension does not deal with the realities being faced by Nevadans

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Congressman Mark Amodei (NV-2) today issued the following statement regarding his yea vote on H.Res. 501, which rejected the Senate's 60-day extenders plan and requested a conference to hammer out differences between the chambers:

""A week ago on December 13, the House passed the comprehensive H.R. 3630, known as 'The Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2011.' Contained in that measure, for which I voted YES, were the following provisions:

1. A one-year extension for the payroll tax cut and unemployment insurance.

2. A two-year extension of the 'Doc Fix' for Medicare and TRICARE patients.

3. A series of reforms and savings, which paid fully for the above programs, and which did not raise taxes, increase the budget deficit or the federal debt, or raid Social Security payments.

4. A freeze on federal and Congressional pay through 2013.

5. Unemployment reforms, which insured that millionaires, prisoners, and illegal immigrants did not receive unemployment benefits.

""After a 96-hour review, the Senate essentially said NO to the above policy positions, and amended H.R. 3630 to be a 60-day bill. That decision sets all Nevadans up for a repeat performance in February of 2012. The decision further raises the fees on all those obtaining FHA mortgages in Nevada, one of the hardest hit housing markets in our nation. Those consulting the Congressional calendars for January will see that neither chamber is set to be in Washington much at all that month, instead spending extended time in respective districts.

""I realize that I've been in Congress for less than 100 days, but it's truly illuminating to see that this has become the story of 'no' and 'the Tea Party' and 'the House killing the Senate bill.' I guess in Washington, D.C., where politics trump policy, Saturday the 17th comes before Tuesday the 13th. The House bill accomplishes what everybody wants, including Democrats, Republicans, and, most importantly, the American people. But because getting the policy right as a fact is a harder edit for the Beltway cultural media, the reality gets lost and the story becomes about political sport rather than good policy.

""H.R. 3630 as passed by the House is a good bill. It gets the policy right for seniors, veterans, employers, workers, and those on unemployment. Because some smell political blood in the water, the discussion magically takes on characteristics that bear no relation to facts and good policy. Don't believe the hype. It is not good policy.

""The 60-day extension is not workable from an implementation standpoint. It does not give Nevadans the stability and predictability that they deserve. And if recent history is any indication, waiting 60 days doesn't mean anything will get accomplished. We just went through this with the Super Committee.

""The last time I checked, this is a bicameral legislature. I look forward to regular order proceeding, as designed by the Founders. Hard-working Americans don't put off for 60-days what they can accomplish today. If we're going to do this, it's worth doing right. The Senate can claim that up is down and left is right, but it doesn't make it so.""

For the record:

Prior to their new-found support for the 60-day extension, the following officials said:

“It would be inexcusable for Congress not to further extend this middle-class tax cut for the rest of the year.” -- President Barack Obama

“House Democrats will return to Washington to take up this legislation without delay, and we will keep up the fight to extend these provisions for a full year.” -- House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi

“I’m disappointed that Senate Republicans would not agree to a longer-term extension of critical policies.” -- House Minority Whip Steny Hoyer

# # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:13:05Z
https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases/amodei-statement-senate-two-month-extension-deal,Amodei statement on senate two-month extension deal,2011-12-19,2011,2011-12,Republican,House,NV,Mark E. Amodei,A000369,amodei.house.gov,amodei,https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases,scraper,"IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Brian Baluta (202) 225-6155

December 19, 2011

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Congressman Mark Amodei (NV-2) today issued the following statement regarding the Senate's vote to extend the payroll tax holiday, among other provisions, only two months instead of the remainder of FY2012 as per the House's bipartisan agreement:

""To enact a 60-day extension of these important programs instead of a year, which would give doctors, patients, seniors, taxpayers and those looking for predictability and stability in their personal lives and jobs, is a can-kick of Olympic proportions. I have yet to hear of a reason for 60 days instead of 12 months. Conclusions for political sport are all that I see so far.

""I reject the all too familiar political blame game that too many are accustomed to starting at the first opportunity. I sincerely believe that as a part of this process Nevadans deserve to know what the future holds for them on the issues of taxes, unemployment and medical care for longer than the next 60 days. I also believe that Nevadans favor eliminating unemployment benefits to millionaires and prisoners, and implementing means testing for food stamps. The dismissive rhetoric coming out of the Senate seems to ignore the fact that 234 representatives in the House supported the year-long extension.

""I am still searching for the policy bedrock on which the 60-day timeframe is based. This is not a case of less is better. But don't take my word for it. According to the non-partisan National Payroll Reporting Consortium, the two-month plan may not even be logistically feasible and 'could create substantial problems, confusion and costs affecting a significant percentage of U.S. employers and employees.'

""If there's one thing that Nevadans do not need more of, it's the 'problems, confusion and costs' created by the 60-day plan. That is why I am more than willing to work for the next two weeks to provide some longer-term certainty so that Nevadans can plan their lives accordingly for the coming year.""

# # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:13:05Z
https://aderholt.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/aderholt-supports-fiscal-year-2012-conference-report,Aderholt Supports Fiscal Year 2012 Conference Report,2011-12-16,2011,2011-12,Republican,House,AL,Robert B. Aderholt,A000055,aderholt.house.gov,aderholt,https://aderholt.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 16, 2011

CONTACT: Anne Marie Malecha, 202.225.4876

Aderholt Supports Fiscal Year 2012 Conference Report

Report Includes Responsible Spending Levels, Calls for Hard Hitting Oversight and Provides Vital Disaster Relief

Washington, D.C.— Congressman Robert Aderholt (AL-04), Chairman of the Subcommittee on Homeland Security for the House Committee on Appropriations, today released the following statement in support of the fiscal year (FY) 2012 Conference Report:

“This Appropriations report was forged out of a very open and transparent debate,” said Aderholt. “I am proud to have worked with my colleagues to forge a bipartisan, bicameral agreement that reduces discretionary spending by nearly $94 billion since fiscal year 2010, prevents a potential government shutdown, supports critical domestic programs, reins in government overreach, and puts our nation on a fiscally responsible path, creating a better environment for economic growth and private sector job creation.”

“Homeland security and fiscal discipline are both clear national priorities. As Chairman of the Subcommittee on Homeland Security, I am pleased to say this report includes critical funding for the Department of Homeland Security, while recognizing that more government and more spending does not necessarily equal more security. It cuts discretionary funding for the Department by $2 billion since fiscal year 2011, prioritizes taxpayers’ limited dollars toward vital security programs, includes meaningful, hard-hitting oversight and provides $8.1 billion for disaster relief across the nation.”

“Within this Appropriations report funding priority is given to frontline operations, including supporting the highest-ever staffing levels for Border Patrol agents, CBP officers and ICE agents. It also funds and provides statutory direction to ICE to maintain a daily detention bed capacity of 34,000 beds, the highest ever in history, to strengthen immigration enforcement and increase removals.”

“This agreement includes a total of $8.1 billion for disaster recovery efforts and fully funds FEMA’s disaster relief requirements for FY12. This will ensure devastated areas like Joplin, Missouri, numerous flooded communities along the Mississippi River and East Coast, and tornado-ravaged towns in my home state of Alabama will get the full assistance they need to rebuild and get back on their feet,” concluded Aderholt.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:13:05Z
https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases/amodei-statement-vote-fund-government,Amodei statement on vote to fund government,2011-12-16,2011,2011-12,Republican,House,NV,Mark E. Amodei,A000369,amodei.house.gov,amodei,https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases,scraper,"The cost to run the government is something that I need to be able to justify to my fellow Nevadans, to whom I clearly communicated a position of discipline in spending and reducing the deficit. While there is much that I can find to support in this bill

IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Brian Baluta (202) 225-6155

December 16, 2011

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Congressman Mark Amodei (NV-2) today issued the following statement regarding his nay vote on the bill to fund the government through FY2012:

""The cost to run the government is something that I need to be able to justify to my fellow Nevadans, to whom I clearly communicated a position of discipline in spending and reducing the deficit. While there is much that I can find to support in this bill, including disaster relief that is offset so as not to add to the deficit, I am disappointed that it does not do more to reduce overall spending.

""Every hour, the federal government spends $148 million it doesn't have. I voted against this bill because it only reduces spending from the previous year by less than $8 billion or roughly two days worth of government spending. In fact, the bill passed today actually spends $24 billion more than the budget the House passed earlier this year.

""As a Member of Congress, the loudest message I can send is through my votes on government spending. With the economy continuing to struggle and Americans look for signs that their government can do something about our $15 trillion debt and avoid another credit downgrade, I could not in good faith vote yes.

""The answer to every problem is not more federal spending, especially when that means burying future generations under a mountain of debt. And unfortunately, a relatively small spending reduction when we're $15 trillion in the red does not, in my opinion, go far enough in the right direction.""

# # #

2012-01-06 10:40:00 2012-01-13 11:32:00 2011-12-16 07:39:00 False False",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:13:05Z
https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=A2F0D695-8ED1-4705-8781-2D462CE31641,Representative DesJarlais Votes Against the Omnibus Appropriations Package,2011-12-16,2011,2011-12,Republican,House,TN,Scott DesJarlais,D000616,desjarlais.house.gov,desjarlais,https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center,scraper,"Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) issued the following statement after voting against the end of year omnibus package:

“I have made it clear from the beginning that until Harry Reid and Senate Democrats can pass a budget, we need to work off the spending levels set forth in the House-passed 2012 budget. The Path to Prosperity is a credible and commonsense proposal that would put our nation on the path to balanced budgets and debt reduction.

“Unfortunately, the spending levels set forth in today’s omnibus package exceed those in the Path to Prosperity and therefore I could not vote in favor of it.

“It is impossible to get our nation’s fiscal house in order unless we have a budget framework to work from. House Republicans have done their job and passed a budget, it is now time for Senate Democrats to do the same.

“My constituents sent me to Washington to make the difficult spending decisions, and I’m more than willing to make them. Continuing Resolutions and omnibus packages are not the sort of bold action that the people in Tennessee’s Fourth Congressional District expect. I will continue to fight for long-term solutions to rein in Washington’s out-of-control spending.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:13:05Z
https://mcclintock.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/vote-note-hr-2055-consolidated-appropriations-act-of-2012-no,Vote Note HR 2055 - Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2012: NO,2011-12-16,2011,2011-12,Republican,House,CA,Tom McClintock,M001177,mcclintock.house.gov,mcclintock,https://mcclintock.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Viewed in isolation, the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2012 reduces total discretionary spending authority (those expenditures that don’t require statutory changes, including war and emergency spending) from $1.209 trillion in FY 2011 to $1.181 trillion in FY 2012), or $28 billion (2.3 percent). Viewed over the past five years, however, this still constitutes an increase of $144 billion, in discretionary spending (13.5 percent).

This may constitute an improvement over the past year, but begs the question, “Does it put the nation back on the path to fiscal solvency?”

The overarching issue is what impact does this bill have in conjunction with total spending levels. Are we reducing spending enough to avert the fiscal collapse of the United States Government? The Ryan budget was only supportable because it included significant reform of mandatory spending that, together with a discretionary spending cap of $1.019 trillion, put us on a trajectory that balanced the federal budget by the mid-2030’s and paid off the national debt by the mid-2050’s. H.R. 3671 would take our annual discretionary spending (in conjunction with all other bills) to $1.181 trillion without any reform of mandatory spending.

All told, this bill cements total authorized federal spending for FY 2012 at $3.693 trillion with revenue of only $2.635 trillion, assuring another one trillion dollar-plus budget deficit. That means roughly $13,000 of additional debt on every family of four (per capita x 4), which they will be required to repay through their future taxes.

Last year (FY 2011), total authorized spending amounted to $3.650 trillion meaning that total federal spending has increased by $43 billion, or about $550 per family (per capita x 4) in the past year.

Proportionally, this is the same as a family earning $26,350 that plans to spend $36,930 next year, putting another $10,580 on a credit card that already carries a balance of more than $150,000. Rather than cutting its overall spending, it has increased it by $43, while cutting only $28 from its “discretionary” choices.

The question on HR 2055 comes down to this: “Is that family acting responsibly?”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:13:05Z
https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases/amodei-supports-defense-authorization,Amodei supports defense authorization,2011-12-15,2011,2011-12,Republican,House,NV,Mark E. Amodei,A000369,amodei.house.gov,amodei,https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases,scraper,"IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Brian Baluta (202) 225-6155

December 14, 2011

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Congressman Mark Amodei (NV-2) today voted in favor of H.R. 1540, the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) Conference Report, which passed the House 283 to 136 with broad bi-partisan support.

""This bill represents a commitment to our service men and women and their families, all of whom sacrifice dearly on our behalf,"" said Amodei. ""As we come to terms with the reality of the fiscal crisis, may we never lose sight of their needs, both in the field and at home.""

Funding for the FY 12 NDAA was decreased $21.8 billion from the original House-passed version to comply with the Budget Control Act’s requirement to cut defense spending by an estimated $465 billion over 10 years, beginning in 2013.

Specific provisions for NV-2 include:

$11,375,000 for the construction of an Army Reserve readiness center at the Fire Science Academy site in Carlin.

The following Nellis Air Force Base projects:

$35,850,000 for construction and land acquisition.

$21,500,000 for an F-35a age facility.

$11,600,000 for a communications network control center.

$2,750,000 for an F-35 add/alter engine shop.

$97,559,000 for operation of the Nevada Test Site in Nye County.

The NDAA also strengthens policies and procedures to prosecute, interrogate and detain terrorists. It does not extend any new authority to detain U.S. Citizens or infringe upon Constitutional rights, as previously feared, which enabled Amodei to fully support the bill. The House Armed Services Committee has plans to modify the detention language to further emphasize the Constitutional rights of American citizens. The existing language was from last year's defense appropriations bill and a modification was deferred so as to not delay needed funding to the troops.

For more information on the NDAA, please go to www.armedservices.house.gov

# # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:13:05Z
https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases/sopa-has-strong-support,SOPA has strong support,2011-12-15,2011,2011-12,Republican,House,NV,Mark E. Amodei,A000369,amodei.house.gov,amodei,https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases,scraper,"For Immediate Release: December 15, 2011 Contact: Kim Smith Hicks, 202-225-3951; Brian Baluta, 202-225-6155

Washington, D.C. – Today, the House Judiciary Committee will mark up the Stop Online Piracy Act (H.R. 3261), a bill that stops foreign online criminals from stealing and selling America’s intellectual property and keeping the profits for themselves. According to estimates, IP theft costs the U.S. economy more than $100 billion annually and results in the loss of thousands of American jobs. The Stop Online Piracy Act specifically targets foreign websites primarily dedicated to illegal activity or foreign websites that market themselves as such.

The bill ensures that profits from America’s innovations go to American innovators. The Stop Online Piracy Act has 31 bipartisan cosponsors.

Chairman Lamar Smith (R-Texas): “There is a vast virtual market online run by criminals who steal products and profits that rightly belong to American innovators. These foreign rogue websites not only steal movies and music, they offer counterfeit medicine, automobile parts and even baby food, which harm American industries and put American lives at risk.

“Because the U.S. produces the most intellectual property, our nation has the most to lose if we fail to address the problem of rogue sites. The Stop Online Piracy Act stops foreign rogue websites from taking jobs and profits away from America’s innovators. The bill’s broad bipartisan support shows Congress’s commitment to combating rogue sites and ensuring that profits go to American innovators, not criminals who steal our products and damage our economy.”

Ranking Member John Conyers (D-Mich.): “Today’s markup is a victory for American artists and jobs. Online property crime robs American artists and harms American consumers, and the Stop Online Piracy Act provides important tools to safeguard our jobs and property.”

IP Subcommittee Chairman Bob Goodlatte (R-Va.): “Intellectual property is one of America’s chief job creators and competitive advantages in the global marketplace, yet American inventors, authors, and entrepreneurs have been forced to stand by and watch as their works are stolen by foreign infringers beyond the reach of current U.S. laws. The Stop Online Piracy Act will update the laws to ensure that the economic incentives our Framers enshrined in the Constitution over 220 years ago - to encourage new writings, research, products and services - remain effective in the 21st Century’s global marketplace, which will create more American jobs.”

Rep. Adam Schiff (D-Calif.): “As a co-chair of the Congressional Anti Piracy Caucus, I know how hard it is to safeguard our Intellectual Property from foreign rogue websites, and as a Representative from Los Angeles, I know what it costs us in terms of well-paying jobs. The Stop Online Piracy Act is a huge step forward, giving legitimate creators a fighting chance against foreign rogue websites who steal their work.”

Rep. Mark Amodei (R-Nev.): “Online piracy by foreign websites is a $100 billion a year assault on our already wounded economy. I can't sit idly by when millions of American jobs -- including those in Nevada's gaming technology industry -- are threatened like this. SOPA provides greater protections for targets of online piracy and helps shield American consumers from dangerous counterfeit goods, such as pharmaceuticals.”

Rep. Tim Griffin (R-Ark.): “SOPA protects American ideas and saves American jobs lost through online theft. There is no difference between stealing a DVD from a store and stealing a copyrighted movie from the Internet. Our founding fathers understood the importance of protecting intellectual property to ensure fair competition in a free market, and they authorized Congress to protect it in Article I of the U.S. Constitution. American ideas and innovation are the foundation of the world’s greatest economy. I support SOPA because it’s a narrowly tailored bill that targets foreign-based rogue websites in order to protect American ideas and American jobs.”

Rep. Bill Owens (D-NY): “What we are doing here is applying the same legislative policy that we do to the importation of pirated goods, which is set forth in the Lanham Act. The goal of this bill is to stop the theft of intellectual property just like we work to prevent the importation of knock-off goods into the United States.”

Background information on the Stop Online Piracy Act:

The Stop Online Piracy Act targets foreign web sites that steal and sell America’s intellectual property and keep the profits for themselves. The manager’s amendment, introduced on Monday, is the result of work with additional groups and stakeholders to address technical concerns with the first draft. The bill takes legitimate concerns into consideration, while still providing strong tools to fight foreign rogue sites. The resulting bill improves the legislation, increases industry support, and ensures the protection of American innovation and jobs.

To watch the Committee’s markup and learn more about the Stop Online Piracy Act, please visit: judiciary.house.gov/

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:13:05Z
https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=3AAB3392-7AB0-4F03-97A8-28CBA7239CC7,Representative DesJarlais Statement on the United States Officially Ending its Mission in Iraq,2011-12-14,2011,2011-12,Republican,House,TN,Scott DesJarlais,D000616,desjarlais.house.gov,desjarlais,https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center,scraper,"Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN04) issued the following statement regarding today’s announcement that United States military officially declared an end to its mission in Iraq:

“With our mission in Iraq coming to a conclusion, we should all pause to honor the brave men and women in uniform who so courageously put their lives on the line fighting for our nation in places like Fallujah, Baghdad and Tikrit. Let us also remember to give thanks to their families and vow to never forget those who paid the ultimate sacrifice in defense of freedom.

“As our efforts in Iraq close, we must continue to focus on the ongoing war in Afghanistan. It is critical that we ensure our troops on the ground have the necessary resources they need to accomplish their objectives and win this war.

“Finally, on this day let us remember those who fought during the first Gulf War over 20 years ago. We have not forgotten the sacrifices they made.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:13:05Z
https://aderholt.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/aderholt-statement-middle-class-tax-relief-and-job-creation-act,Aderholt Statement on the Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act,2011-12-13,2011,2011-12,Republican,House,AL,Robert B. Aderholt,A000055,aderholt.house.gov,aderholt,https://aderholt.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 13, 2011

CONTACT: Anne Marie Malecha, 202.225.4876

Aderholt Statement on the Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act

Legislation Cuts Spending, Protects Social Security, Improves Medicare Payments for Doctors, Reforms Unemployment Insurance and Includes Key Job Creation Initiatives

Washington, D.C.— Congressman Robert Aderholt (AL-04), today released the following statement in support of H.R. 3060, the Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2011:

“Over the past year House Republicans have passed more than 25 measures to help America’s job creators, however at nearly every turn Democrat leadership in the Senate has blocked these efforts to reverse burdensome regulations and create an environment for sustainable private-sector job growth,” said Aderholt.

“This nonsense has gone on long enough. It is time that Congress protect American workers and job creators from further tax increase, job killing regulations and put an end to wasteful Washington spending. The Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act, does just that. This legislation protects all workers from facing a tax increase in January and does so without borrowing from the Social Security trust fund. Our nation’s seniors and future generations should not be left to foot the bill of the Obama Administration’s failed economic policies.”

“This legislation further protects the Social Security trust fund by freezing pay for government workers, including members of Congress. It also reforms programs in an effort to eliminate waste, fraud and abuse.”

“As the economy fights to recover, it’s important to continue opening the doors for job creation. This bill directly supports measures that will ultimately aid in the creation of private sector jobs, such as the Keystone XL energy pipeline and blocks the EPA’s job destroying Boiler MACT regulations. Additionally, this legislation addresses the need for reform in our nation’s existing Unemployment Insurance program. Recognizing unemployment services should focus on helping Americans get back to work, the bill uses a two-step process to gradually reduce the number of weeks Unemployment Insurance recipients can receive benefits without finding gainful employment from 99 to 59 weeks, a common sense level that is in line with past recessions and economic downturns.”

“For the past decade, Congress has been operating Medicare’s “doc fix” payment policy just a few months at a time, providing great uncertainty for Doctors serving patients with Medicare. This legislation includes a two-year doc fix, providing physicians greater stability and paves the way for a permanent solution. Also included with this provision are program updates to further reduce waste, fraud and abuse, as well as a repeal of $8 billion in funding mandated by ObamaCare.”

“Because Washington must stop spending money our country simply does not have, House Republicans have fully offset the costs of this bill with real, common sense spending cuts. I hope the Senate and the Administration finally answer American’s call to action and swiftly pass this bill,” concluded Aderholt.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:13:05Z
https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases/amodei-vote-extend-payroll-tax-holiday-and-unemployment-benefits,Amodei to vote to extend payroll tax holiday and unemployment benefits,2011-12-13,2011,2011-12,Republican,House,NV,Mark E. Amodei,A000369,amodei.house.gov,amodei,https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases,scraper,"IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Brian Baluta (202) 225-6155

December 13, 2011

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Congressman Mark Amodei (NV-2) announced today that he will vote in favor of H.R. 3630, the Middle Class Tax Relief & Job Creation Act of 2011, which would provide a fully offset extension of the current payroll tax holiday, an extension of emergency federal unemployment benefits, as well job creation incentives, among other provisions. The legislation would provide assistance to Americans suffering in the recession, while ensuring that these policies will not add to the ballooning federal deficit.

""It's important to me that the extension of these benefits, on which many Americans currently depend, does not worsen one of the principle threats to our economy and our nation's future -- that being the $15 trillion federal debt,"" said Amodei. ""This legislation also recognizes that unemployment services should focus on helping Americans actually get back to work rather than subsidizing benefits for an unprecedented, unending period of time.""

The cost of the bill is offset by freezing pay for members of Congress and federal workers, reforming unemployment insurance, reducing subsidies, and getting rid of waste, fraud and abuse in some Washington programs. In addition, the bill would provide new incentives for job creation by removing burdensome Environmental Protection Agency regulations and taking action on the bipartisan Keystone XL energy project, which would immediately create 20,000 jobs, with the potential for 100,000 to 200,000 additional jobs.

In the case of the payroll tax holiday, the measure would, for the first time, protect the Social Security Trust Fund from being harmed by cutting government spending and directing those savings to replenish the trust fund.

# # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:13:05Z
https://mcclintock.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/vote-note-hr-3630-payroll-tax-cut-extension,Vote Note HR 3630 - Payroll Tax Cut Extension,2011-12-13,2011,2011-12,Republican,House,CA,Tom McClintock,M001177,mcclintock.house.gov,mcclintock,https://mcclintock.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"HR 3630 – Payroll Tax Cut Extension: NO. Although the temporary payroll tax cut doesn’t produce lasting economic growth, I support its continuation because it allows working families to keep more of their earnings at a time of declining incomes, shriveling assets and rising prices. But since the payroll tax funds Social Security, which is already in permanent deficit, these funds must be made up by other means. The healthy way to do so is HR 3551, which I cosponsored, to give every American the choice to receive the year of tax relief in exchange for delaying retirement by a month. HR 3630, however, adds $167 billion to this year’s already crushing deficit, purporting to repay it over the next ten years (in part) by tacking on additional fees to mortgages backed by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. This shifts the burden to new homebuyers, who will end up paying far more in new taxes (hidden in their mortgages) than they will get from the tax cut. The average family will save $1,000 in payroll taxes, but pay an extra $2,000 for every $100,000 of mortgage principal they incur in the next ten years.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:13:05Z
https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=14E827F1-907D-416D-9FC1-CAE1439812D1,Representative Scott DesJarlais Votes in Favor of the Middle Class Tax Relief & Job Creation Act,2011-12-12,2011,2011-12,Republican,House,TN,Scott DesJarlais,D000616,desjarlais.house.gov,desjarlais,https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center,scraper,"On Tuesday, December 13, 2011, Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) voted in favor of H.R. 3630, The Middle Class Tax Relief & Job Creation Act. This legislation addresses a number of provisions that are scheduled to expire at the end of this year. Specifically, this bill includes a fully paid-for extension of the payroll tax holiday, substantial reforms to the unemployment insurance (UI) program and a two-year freeze on cuts to doctors providing care to our nation’s seniors and disabled enrolled in Medicare. Additionally, this legislation requires the president to make a decision on the approval the Keystone XL Pipeline within 60 days of enactment.

Representative DesJarlais issued the following statement upon passage of this bill:

“Today I cast my vote in favor of the Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2011. This legislation contains several important measures that will be of significant benefit to my constituents in Tennessee’s Fourth Congressional District.

“For starters, this bill will extend the payroll tax holiday for one year for hardworking Americans. The extension of this tax cut will allow my constituents to keep more of their paychecks to invest as they see fit, rather than forfeiting that money over to a federal government that has shown no fiscal restraint when it comes to spending taxpayer dollars on wasteful government programs and policies.

“While today’s legislation extends unemployment benefits, it does so while making significant reforms to the program. Certainly, we are a kind and caring nation. We are a nation that understands that at times people need a little help to get back on their feet. But when individuals simply choose not to work and take advantage of these limited resources, it leaves less for those who actually need this type of assistance. The Middle Class Tax Relief & Job Creation Act will lower the 99-week cap on benefits to 59 weeks and put in place requirements that will ensure that individuals are actively looking for employment.

“As both a physician and a Member of Congress, I’m committed to preserving and protecting Medicare for our seniors. Unless we prevent the scheduled 27% reduction to the Medicare reimbursement rate for physicians, seniors will have an increasingly difficult time finding quality care. Doctors will simply not be able to afford to treat Medicare beneficiaries if this cut takes place. The GOP Doctors Caucus, which I’m a member of, is committed to reforming the flawed SGR formula, but until we find a permanent fix, we cannot allow these deep cuts to physician reimbursements.

“Finally, this bill will require the president to put politics aside and make a decision on the Keystone XL Pipeline. The president is trying to avoid making a decision on issuing a permit for the pipeline until after the 2012 elections. Americans should not be made to wait a minute longer than necessary for projects that will create badly needed jobs. The construction of the Keystone Pipeline alone could create up to 20,000 American jobs, while reducing our dependency on oil from hostile nations. It is important to note that this legislation will not force the president to approve the pipeline, only to make a decision on whether or not he will allow the project to move forward.

“I hope that Senate Majority Leader Reid will put the American people before politics and allow this legislation to have a fair vote on the Senate floor. These are commonsense, bipartisan proposals that will give the American people a badly needed tax break, reform a government program that is rife with waste and abuse, ensure that seniors continue to have access to quality medical care and create badly needed American jobs.”

*Please see attached document for additional information on the Middle Class Tax Relief & Job Creation Act

*This legislation passed the House with bipartisan support: 234-193.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:13:05Z
https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=3CC17620-76E4-432D-9254-C4F67469635C,Representative Scott DesJarlais Announces Winning YouCut Bill,2011-12-11,2011,2011-12,Republican,House,TN,Scott DesJarlais,D000616,desjarlais.house.gov,desjarlais,https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center,scraper,"Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) announced that “Stop Rewarding States for Recruiting Additional Food Stamp Recipients” was the winner of last week’s YouCut program. The congressman is now in the process of drafting legislation that will prevent the federal government from issuing bonuses to states for signing up additional food stamp recipients.

Currently, the Department of Agriculture's Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (formerly known as the Food Stamp program) pays state governments bonuses – with taxpayer dollars – for recruiting additional people to sign up for food stamps. Each year, states with the highest percentage of eligible participants enroll in the program and split $48 million in bonus funds. Additionally, the department awards another $6 million in bonus money to states that are the fastest at signing up new program applicants.

Eliminating this program will at least to $480 million dollars over ten years.

“The fact that our government rewards states for recruiting individuals to be on food stamps is not just wasteful, it is ridiculous,” said Representative Scott DesJarlais. “Why does the federal government need to incentivize states to spend taxpayer dollars with more taxpayer dollars? Government at all levels should strive to spend funds as efficiently as possible without the need for additional taxpayer funded bonuses.”

“I want to thank my constituents for taking time to participate in the YouCut program. I’m of the firm belief that the solutions to our nation’s problems will be uncovered by directly involving the American people in the legislative process. Programs like YouCut give us another way to listen to the individuals that we represent so that we can bring their voices to Washington,” noted DesJarlais.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:13:05Z
https://aderholt.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/aderholt-supports-farm-dust-regulation-prevention-act,Aderholt Supports Farm Dust Regulation Prevention Act,2011-12-08,2011,2011-12,Republican,House,AL,Robert B. Aderholt,A000055,aderholt.house.gov,aderholt,https://aderholt.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: November 8, 2011

CONTACT: Anne Marie Malecha, 202.225.4876

Aderholt Supports Farm Dust Regulation Prevention Act

Legislation Provides Regulatory Certainty for America’s Farmers, Ranchers and Rural Businesses

Washington, D.C.— Congressman Robert Aderholt (AL-04), today released the following statement in support of H.R. 1633, the Farm Dust Regulation Prevention Act:

“Farming and Agriculture are cornerstones of our nation’s history and our economy,” said Aderholt. “Burdensome regulations from the EPA and other bureaucratic red tape are hindering our nation’s farmers ability to provide for their families and America’s food needs. In these already tough economic times, we must carefully scrutinize regulations and what their real world affects will be, before they are implemented. I am pleased to be a supporter of this common sense legislation that will reduce the regulatory burden on farmers, ranchers and rural businesses, without compromising environmental standards in the short and long term.”

H.R. 1633 would temporarily prohibit the EPA from issuing any new National Ambient Air Quality Standards for dust, for at least one year, providing greater certainty to Alabama farmers. The legislation would also limit regulation of nuisance dust areas to where it is not already regulated under state, tribal or local law when nuisance dust causes substantial adverse effects and where benefits of federal regulation outweigh the costs.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:13:05Z
https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=660892CD-4A37-463A-A6E0-1C7A262FBBE8,Rep. DesJarlais Praises House Passage of REINS Act to Address Excessive Regulations that Hurt Job Creators,2011-12-07,2011,2011-12,Republican,House,TN,Scott DesJarlais,D000616,desjarlais.house.gov,desjarlais,https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center,scraper,"Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) released the following statement after the House passed the Regulations from the Executive in Need of Scrutiny (REINS) Act (H.R. 10), a bill that reins in out of control federal regulations by requiring congressional approval for any federal regulation with an economic impact of $100 million or more.

“In meeting with more than thirty business owners during my Tennessee Job Creators Tour, I can say with certainty that needless bureaucratic red tape and excessive government regulations are hamstringing their ability to grow and create badly needed jobs,” said Representative DesJarlais. “In times of economic uncertainty, we should be focusing our efforts on empowering job creators – not increasing the size of Washington’s regulatory authority at the expense of small businesses. The REINS Act will improve the accountability of the regulatory process by requiring regulations with a substantial economic impact to be subject to congressional approval instead of allowing unaccountable bureaucrats to issue new rules without any oversight.""

The Regulations from the Executive in Need of Scrutiny (REINS) Act:

1.Requires Congress to take an up-or-down vote on regulations that have an economic impact of $100 million or more before they can be imposed on the American people and businesses;

2. Stops the practice of allowing unelected federal officials impose huge costs on the economy and American people through burdensome regulations;

3. Reins in the costly overreach of federal agencies that stifles job creation and hinders economic growth;

4. Restores the authority to impose regulations to those who are accountable to the voters, their elected representatives in Congress.

5. According to the Small Business Administration, federal regulations cost our economy $1.75 trillion per year.

6. The Obama Administration’s December 2010 report on federal regulations listed more than 4,200 regulatory actions under development by federal agencies.

7. In 2011, the Obama administration is expected to propose more than 200 regulations costing over $100 million each. Seven of those new regulations will cost the economy more than $1 billion each.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:13:05Z
https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=314C1F31-57C5-4469-AAD4-1EDB17CC42F3,DesJarlais Statement on 70th Anniversary of Attack on Pearl Harbor,2011-12-06,2011,2011-12,Republican,House,TN,Scott DesJarlais,D000616,desjarlais.house.gov,desjarlais,https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center,scraper,"Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) issued the following statement on the 70th anniversary of the attacks on Pearl Harbor:

Our nation places special importance and reverence on certain dates: July 4th, September 11th and today, December 7th.

In the early morning hours of December 7th, 1941, our nation was attacked deliberately at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii leading the United States’ entry into World War II.

In response to this brutal attack, millions of Americans answered the nation’s call and enlisted in our armed forces. This greatest generation selflessly put their lives on the line defending our freedom in the faraway lands of Africa, Europe and the Pacific Islands. At home our fellow American’s did their part to ensure our success. Women joined the workforce to replace the men fighting overseas, families rationed essential products and businesses redesigned their factories to build machinery for the war effort.

It this indomitable spirit and willingness to sacrifice that is ingrained in the in the collective conscious of our nation that serves to remind me that there is no obstacle too great for the American people to overcome.

In the fires of Pearl Harbor a nation was forged that would show the world that the principles of freedom, democracy and liberty will always triumph over evil and oppression.

On this day, let us not only remember those who lost their lives at Pearl Harbor, but give thanks to all who have or are currently wearing the uniform of the United States Military. We owe them much more than words can adequately describe.

God bless America and God bless our troops.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:13:05Z
https://mcclintock.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/congressman-mcclintock-introduces-hr-3544,Congressman McClintock Introduces H.R. 3544,2011-12-01,2011,2011-12,Republican,House,CA,Tom McClintock,M001177,mcclintock.house.gov,mcclintock,https://mcclintock.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Congressman McClintock has introduced H.R. 3544. The legislation offers litigatory reforms for local communities. The Congressman discussed the legislation in a House floor speech on December 1, 2011:

The Plunder of Colfax

In the Sierra Foothills in northeastern California lies the little town of Colfax, population 1,800, with a median household income of about $35,000.

Over the past several years, this little town has been utterly plundered by regulatory and litigatory excesses that have pushed the town to the edge of bankruptcy and ravaged families already struggling to make ends meet.

Colfax operates a small wastewater treatment plant for its residents that discharges into the Smuthers Ravine. Because it does so, it operates within the provisions of the Clean Water Act, a measure adopted in 1972 and rooted in legitimate concerns to protect our vital water resources.

The problem is that predatory environmental law firms have discovered how to take unconscionable advantage of that law to reap windfall profits at the expense of working-class families like the townspeople of Colfax.

In the case of Colfax, an environmental law firm demanded every document pertaining to the water treatment plant from the date of its inception. It then poured over those documents looking for any possible violation – including mere paperwork errors. By law, those documents include self-monitoring reports by the water agency itself, and any violation, no matter how minor, establishes a cause of action for which the law provides for no affirmative defense – even if the violation is due to factors completely outside of the local community's control, including acts of God or acts by unrelated and uncontrollable third parties.

Prove one such violation – and remember, the law allows for no affirmative defense – and you have just guaranteed the attorneys all of their fees, which in this case were billed at $550 per hour.

As a result of this predatory activity, the town of Colfax is facing legal fees alone that exceed the town's entire annual budget. Families that are struggling just to keep afloat are fleeced by attorneys charging $550 per hour.

But that's just part of the problem.

The law requires constant upgrading of the facilities to meet ever-changing state-of-the-art regulations that have nothing to do with health and safety and with absolutely no concern for their prohibitive costs. In fact, Colfax is now required to discharge water certifiably cleaner than the natural stream water into which it is discharged. In Colfax's case, this required a $15 million expenditure divided among 1,800 working-class residents who are now paying $2,500 per year just for their water connections.

And once the town has met this standard, there's no guarantee that in five years it won't be told, ""Sorry, the rules have changed and you'll need to start over.""

It is time to restore some form of rationality back to this law, and to stop the plunder of small towns like Colfax. And Colfax isn't alone – any community that operates a wastewater treatment plant is in the same jeopardy.

No one disputes that we need to maintain and enforce sensible and cost-effective protections of our precious water resources. But legitimate environmental protections must no longer be used as an excuse for regulatory extremism and litigatory plundering of our local communities.

Today, I am introducing legislation to offer six reforms to protect other communities from going through the same nightmare as the people of Colfax:

First, to limit private-party lawsuits to issues of significant non-compliance rather than harmless paperwork errors;

Second, to shield local agencies from liability for acts beyond their control;

Third, to give local agencies 60 days to cure a violation before legal action can be initiated;

Fourth, to allow communities to amortize the cost of new facilities over a period of 15 years before new requirements can be heaped on them;

Fifth, to require a cost-benefit analysis before new regulations can be imposed;

And sixth, to limit attorney fees to the prevailing fees in the community.

Like many movements, the impetus for stronger environmental protection of our air and water was firmly rooted in legitimate concerns to protect these vital resources. But like many movements, as it succeeded in its legitimate ends, it also attracted a self-interested constituency that has driven far past the borders of commonsense and into the realms of political extremism and outright plunder and I am hopeful that we are now entering an era when common sense can be restored to the Clean Water Act in this session of the Congress.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:13:05Z
https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases/amodei-thanks-service-academy-selection-committee,Amodei thanks service academy selection committee,2011-11-29,2011,2011-11,Republican,House,NV,Mark E. Amodei,A000369,amodei.house.gov,amodei,https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases,scraper,"IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Brian Baluta (202) 225-6155

November 29, 2011

RENO -- Congressman Mark Amodei (NV-2) today recognized the members of his Service Academy Selection Committee, who interviewed 38 potential service academy students for Congressional nominations on Saturday, November 19.

""This is an impressive group of individuals who have all honorably served their country,"" said Amodei, who was an Army JAG officer. ""I thank them for their service and I'm grateful that they agreed to be a part of this inspiring process of nominating young people for application to our nation's service academies.""

Applicants to all service academies, except the U.S. Coast Guard Academy, are required to obtain a nomination to the school. Nominations may be made by Senators, Representatives, the President, and the Vice President. The members of Amodei's Service Academy Selection Committee interview potential candidates from Nevada's 2nd Congressional District and advise the Congressman on his nominations.

Chief Master Sergeant Evelyn Anderson is a resident of Carson City. She serves as the Chief of Personnel, Manpower and Classification for the Nevada National Guard Human Resources Office. Chief Anderson joined the United States Air Force in March 1986 and transferred to the Nevada Air National Guard in December 1987.

Lieutenant Colonel Caesar R. Garduno is a resident of Reno. He currently serves as the commander of the 192nd Airlift Squadron, Nevada Air National Guard. Lt Colonel Garduno received his regular commission in the Air Force upon graduation from the United States Air Force Academy in 1989. He is a command pilot with more than 5,300 hours in the C-130H, KC-130H, C-130E, T-38, T-37, and T-41 aircraft.

Dr. Steve Hull is a resident of Reno. He is the former Principal of Hug High School and McQueen High School. Dr. Hull recently retired as chief communication director for the Reno School District. He is a former Reserve Navy Captain and taught at the US Naval Academy. His daughter graduated in the top five of her class at West Point and is currently an Army Major serving in South Korea.

Assemblyman Randy Kirner is a resident of Reno. He currently represents District 26 in the Nevada Legislature. Assemblyman Kirner served in the Army as an Infantry Officer from 1967 until 1972 and was a trained U.S. Army Ranger and Master Paratrooper. He served in Vietnam from 1970 to 1971 and was awarded a Bronze Star.

Captain Tammy Sparkes is a resident of Virginia City Highlands. She currently serves as the Commander of the 150th Maintenance Company, Nevada Army National Guard. Captain Sparkes is a graduate of Gerlach High School. After receiving her bachelor’s degree, she earned her commission through Officer’s Candidate School. Captain Sparkes deployed to Iraq in 2009 where she served as an operations officer.

Mr. Cliff Yeater is a resident of Stagecoach. He retired from the Marine Corps as a First Sergeant in 1991 after 27 years of service. Mr. Yeater's service included tours in Vietnam and Desert Shield.

For more information on service academy nominations, please contact Amodei's Reno office at 775-686-5760.

# # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:58Z
https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=74D61C6D-9750-4491-8471-A01760E11DE0,Representative Scott DesJarlais Tapped to Lead this Week's House Republican YouCut Program,2011-11-29,2011,2011-11,Republican,House,TN,Scott DesJarlais,D000616,desjarlais.house.gov,desjarlais,https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center,scraper,"This week (November 30th- December 7th), Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) has been selected to lead House Republican’s YouCut program. YouCut is an effort launched by Majority Leader Eric Cantor and House Republicans over a year ago as a way for the American people to play a direct role in cutting wasteful government spending.

Individuals can visit the YouCut Web site (https://www.majorityleader.gov/YouCut) where they will have seven days to vote to cut one of three wasteful government programs. These programs include:

1. Stop rewarding States for recruiting additional Food Stamp recipients

Potential Savings: up to $180 million over ten years

The Department of Agriculture’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (formerly known as the Food Stamp program) pays state governments bonuses for recruiting additional people to sign up for food stamps. Each year, states with the highest percentage of eligible participants enrolled in the program split $12 million in bonus funds. Additionally, the Department awards another $6 million in bonus money to states that are the fastest at signing up new program applicants. As of August, 2011, nearly 46 million Americans were on food stamps, or 15 percent of the population. Benefit costs were over $71 billion between September of 2010 and August of 2011. Program participation has grown steadily since the economic downturn began, and increased by 8 percent in 2011. There is no need to pay states for increasing the number of food stamp recipients they enroll in the program.

2.Terminate “environmental literacy” programs run by the Forest Service

Potential Savings -- up to $50 million over ten years

The Forest Service runs numerous programs aimed at schoolchildren and classroom teachers under the rubric of “environmental literacy” or “conservation education.” These programs include such initiatives as “Green Schools” which “empowers students to lead the movement of sustainability and environmental responsibility at school, at home and in their community.” While students may benefit from some of the outdoors activities these programs provide, using taxpayer dollars to generate issue-oriented advocacy among school children and college students is inappropriate.

3.Eliminate production of duplicative workplace safety training materials

Potential Savings – up to $107 million over ten years

The Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration [OSHA] provides more than $10 million annually in grants to labor organizations and community groups to produce workplace safety training materials for employees and employers. Under the Susan Harwood Grant program, hundreds of sets of training materials have been developed since 2003 for the construction industry on avoidance of falls, for industries dealing with hazardous chemicals, and for farmworkers on avoiding injuries when working with farm machinery. Many of the annual grants repeat subject matters covered in training materials previously produced by earlier grantees. The repetitive nature of many of the subject matters suggest that the program is failing to widely disseminate products funded by the earlier grants, and instead simply acting as a funding source for grantees.

Rep. DesJarlais will announce the winning program on December 8th and introduce legislation eliminating that particular government program.

“Since the beginning of the 112th Congress, I’ve been proud to introduce, cosponsor and vote on numerous pieces of commonsense legislation that will cut wasteful government spending in order to give small businesses the confidence they need to start creating jobs,” said Representative DesJarlais. “As a Member of Congress, I believe that the best solutions to our nation’s problems often come directly from the people that we represent. YouCut is an excellent tool in allowing our constituents to get more involved in the process of getting Washington’s spending under control. I look forward to having my constituents in Tennessee’s Fourth Congressional District join Americans across the country in making their voices heard.”

""At a time when our national debt exceeds $15 trillion and Washington borrows more than 40 cents of every dollar it spends, it is more important than ever that we start getting America's fiscal house in order and cut wasteful spending. YouCut is an innovative program that allows hard-working taxpayers around the country to help choose how Washington cuts wasteful spending and allows them to track the legislative process from start to finish. I applaud Representative DesJarlais for his efforts to keep federal spending in check and leading the YouCut program this week,"" said House Majority Leader Eric Cantor.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:58Z
https://aderholt.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/aderholt-fccs-latest-move-proposed-attt-mobile-usa-merger-demonstrates,Aderholt: The FCC's Latest Move in the Proposed AT&T/T-Mobile USA Merger Demonstrates Yet Another Disconnect Between Administration and the Need for Job Creation,2011-11-25,2011,2011-11,Republican,House,AL,Robert B. Aderholt,A000055,aderholt.house.gov,aderholt,https://aderholt.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: November 25, 2011

CONTACT: Anne Marie Malecha, 202.225.4876

Aderholt: The FCC’s Latest Move in the Proposed AT&T/T-Mobile USA Merger Demonstrates Yet Another Disconnect Between Administration and the Need for Job Creation

Washington, D.C.— Congressman Robert Aderholt (AL-04), today released the following statement regarding the proposed merger between AT&T and T-Mobile:

“While the Obama Administration’s $1.17 trillion stimulus package and failed Solyndra loans clearly demonstrated that the government cannot create jobs,"" said Aderholt. ""The FCC and DOJ are demonstrating that the federal government actually can eliminate them.”

“At a time when millions of Americans are looking for work, it appears that the Administration is looking to stifle job creation in one of the few industry sectors we’re ahead. The record is clear that this merger will allow an American company to purchase a foreign owned company that would create jobs here in the U.S. building and operating the new high-speed, nation-wide wireless broadband network and opening the way for everyone to have access to high-speed wireless broadband, including in rural areas like my district.”

“Just last week the FCC stated that the expansion of high-speed broadband would add 500,000 new jobs across the country, and now they have inexplicably moved to try to block a merger that would generate up to 96,000 new jobs from AT&T’s direct investment alone.”

“As a senior member of the Appropriations subcommittee overseeing funding for national commerce and justice-related programs, we should be constantly looking for ways to facilitate cost-effective investment in critical infrastructure to spur job creation and advance America’s global competitiveness, and this merger would accomplish both without costing the taxpayers a dime.”

“The FCC’s order would condemn Americans to staying in an era of slower speeds, slower deployments of this revolutionary technology, and fewer jobs. While all mergers must be reviewed I think the Administration should rethink this decision and encourage the investment in high-speed wireless broadband, not deter investment by throwing up roadblocks,""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:58Z
https://jordan.house.gov/media/press-releases/jordan-responds-super-committees-lack-agreement,Jordan Responds to the Super Committee's Lack of Agreement,2011-11-22,2011,2011-11,Republican,House,OH,Jim Jordan,J000289,jordan.house.gov,jordan,https://jordan.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Rep. Jim Jordan (R-Urbana), Chairman of the House Republican Study Committee, offered the following statement after the Joint Select Committee on Deficit Reduction failed to come to agreement, triggering $1.2 trillion of automatic spending cuts over a ten year period beginning in 2013.

""Throughout the year, the Republican Study Committee has offered solutions to address the debt crisis, including the Cut, Cap and Balance plan that passed the House with bipartisan support. But instead of a solution, Washington wanted a deal, and thus the Super Committee was created.""

""I want to thank our Republican leadership for holding the line on taxes. Higher taxes do not create jobs – they only serve to feed Washington's insatiable appetite to spend.""

""I also want to thank Co-Chairman Jeb Hensarling for his leadership in trying to find bipartisan solutions to stop the out-of-control spending in a town that has only balanced its budget five times in the past 50 years. Unfortunately, this exercise has further proven that the liberal appetite for bigger government and higher taxes outweighs everything else.""

""Though President Obama acknowledged that entitlement programs are some of the biggest drivers of our debt, he has failed to show any leadership in trying to save them. Predictably, the tax-and-spend Democrats on the Joint Select Committee fell in line right behind him. Their failure of leadership could doom these important safety net programs.""

""Moving forward, there are clear and responsible ways to solve our debt and economic problems without raising taxes. I encourage Congressional leaders to advance the Republican Study Committee's concrete solutions to create jobs, reduce spending, and balance the budget.""

Solutions from the Republican Study Committee

-H.R. 408, the Spending Reduction Act, identifies over 100 unnecessary programs, provides a head start towards balancing the budget, and saves taxpayers trillions of dollars over the next decade.

-The RSC Budget for FY 2012 balances the federal budget in less than ten years and institutes reforms that will protect seniors and help save Americans' health care safety net.

-H.R. 2560, the Cut, Cap, and Balance Act, cuts spending immediately, caps it in future years, and requires Congress to send a Balanced Budget Amendment to the American public for approval.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:58Z
https://aderholt.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/aderholt-statement-super-committee-progress,Aderholt Statement on Super Committee Progress,2011-11-21,2011,2011-11,Republican,House,AL,Robert B. Aderholt,A000055,aderholt.house.gov,aderholt,https://aderholt.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: November 21, 2011

CONTACT: Anne Marie Malecha, 202.225.4876

Aderholt Statement on Super Committee Progress

Washington, D.C. — Congressman Robert Aderholt (AL-04), today released the following statement as the Joint Select Committee on Deficit Reduction, also known as the “Super Committee,” meets before the impending November 23rd deadline:

“The goal of the Super Committee is simple, reign in wasteful Washington spending and start chipping away at our nation’s $15 trillion debt, so that our children and grandchildren will have the same economic opportunities we did,” said Aderholt. “Sadly, it looks like that will not happen. Failure by the Super Committee to reach an agreement will be a clear indication of the continued stalemate in Washington and further evidence some Democrats still do not recognize Washington does not have a revenue problem, Washington has a spending problem.”

“While Democrats may blame the failure of the Super Committee on Conservatives unwillingness to raise taxes, the dismal unemployment numbers and failed bailouts and stimulus of the past three years are clear proof we must put an end to Washington’s revolving door of debt, by cutting spending. Our economy is finally showing faint signs of economic recovery, we must capitalize on that momentum. Although there will be disappointment and concern if an agreement is unable to be reached, I am proud my colleagues continue to stand their ground and are fighting to not raise taxes on hardworking Alabama families and small businesses.”

“In the past three years alone, the national debt has increased a staggering 34 percent, under the current Administration. The federal government cannot continue borrowing 42 cents of every dollar spent and expect our economy to turn around. And although it is clear House Republicans may not be able to undo all the damage done, including the many burdensome regulatory and job crushing policies put in place by the Administration over the last three years, I can assure you that House Republican continue to fight tirelessly to try reverse these burdensome regulations and put forth pro-active policies that promote economic growth and private-sector job creation.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:58Z
https://aderholt.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/aderholt-supports-balanced-budget-amendment,Aderholt Supports Balanced Budget Amendment,2011-11-18,2011,2011-11,Republican,House,AL,Robert B. Aderholt,A000055,aderholt.house.gov,aderholt,https://aderholt.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: November 18, 2011

CONTACT: Anne Marie Malecha, 202.225.4876

Aderholt Supports Balanced Budget Amendment

Opportunity to End to Washington’s Spending Binge, Grow America’s Economy and Create Jobs

Washington, D.C. — Congressman Robert Aderholt (AL-04), today released the following statement in support of H.J. Res. 2, the Balanced Budget Amendment:

“For the first 140 years of our nation’s history, except during times of war, the federal government operated a balanced budget,” said Aderholt. “However, in 1934 things began to change. Since then, the federal government has only had 12 balanced budgets, resulting in a $15 trillion national debt.”

“While Alabama families and small business continue to tighten their belts and live within their means, the federal government is borrowing 42 cents of every dollar spent. Washington is in a spending-driven debt crisis and a balanced budget amendment would require Washington to live within its means from here on out, no excuses, no gimmicks.”

“In the past three years alone the national debt has increased a staggering 34 percent. If our economy is to recover and grow, our nation’s small businesses are to create sustainable private-sector jobs and our children and grandchildren are to have a prosperous future, the buck must stop here. I am proud to cosponsor this vital legislation and look forward to its passage,” concluded Aderholt.

Bill Highlights:

Requires the President’s budget submission be balanced;

Requires a super majority 3/5 vote for total spending for any fiscal year that exceeds total revenue;

Requires a super majority 3/5 vote for any future debt limit increase;

Requires a majority vote for any tax increase; and

Includes a waiver for war.

This resolution currently has 242 bipartisan cosponsors also previously passed the House of Representatives in 1995 with 300 bipartisan votes.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:58Z
https://aderholt.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/aderholt-supports-fy12-mini-bus,Aderholt Supports FY12 Mini-Bus,2011-11-17,2011,2011-11,Republican,House,AL,Robert B. Aderholt,A000055,aderholt.house.gov,aderholt,https://aderholt.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Legislation Includes Support for NASA’s SLS Rocket, Disaster Relief Funding and Provides $7 Billion in Spending Cuts

Washington, D.C. — Congressman Robert Aderholt (AL-04), released the following statement in support of the Fiscal Year 2012 Agriculture; Commerce, Justice and Science; Transportation, Housing and Urban Development Appropriations bills and Continuing Resolution, keeping the government in operation until December 16, 2011:

“This legislation, also known as the mini-bus, is another step in the right direction of reigning in wasteful spending and getting our economy back on track,” said Aderholt. “This mini-bus fulfills what we have promised: it cuts discretionary spending for the second year running and establishes much needed priorities. Given the state of the economy, now more than ever, it is imperative to institute responsible spending levels, creating a better environment for economic growth and private sector job creation.”

“I am pleased to say that North Alabama is not left out of this spending bill as there is an increase of $60 million in FY12 for the development of the SLS rocket, for a total of $1.86 billion. In addition the bill requires quarterly reports on the SLS project from NASA Headquarters. Specifically this provision limits spending on infrastructure and requires NASA demonstrate sufficient progress on the SLS project, before receiving all commercial crew funding. The continued development of the SLS rocket is a critical to human spaceflight and exploration and important to Alabama’s economy and I look forward to continuing to work on this project,” concluded Aderholt.

Bill Highlights:

Responsible Funding Levels – The bill provides responsible funding for integral federal agencies and departments, maintaining the critical services and programs our citizens rely on. These programs facilitate public safety and health, improve our infrastructure, protect our most vulnerable citizens, and help grow our economy.

The conference agreement for the three bills upholds the overall regular base discretionary level of $1.043 trillion as agreed to in the Budget Control Act (BCA). This funding level is a decrease of $7 billion from last year, and represents a savings of $93 billion compared to the President’s request.

Important Policy Items – This Conference Report contains important policy items that will discourage government overreach in the daily lives of Americans, provide better oversight on the use of precious taxpayer dollars, protect our citizens and our homeland, and tighten the reins on harmful, job?killing federal regulations that make it harder for employers to create jobs. Some of these items include:

- Bolstering Trade and Job Creation – The report includes language to bolster U.S. trade and strengthen the marketplace, including language encouraging free trade agreements, manufacturing growth, a better import-export trade balance, and repatriation to bring jobs back to the U.S.

- Deportation Funding – The report provides additional funding for judges to expedite deportation hearings of illegal immigrants.

- “GIPSA” Rule – The report places restrictions on the implementation of a proposed rule by the Grain Inspection and Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) that would have allowed harmful government interference in the private market for livestock and poultry.

- Second Amendment Rights – The conference agreement includes numerous provisions that protect the right to keep and bear arms. Three of these protections are made permanent beginning in FY 2012. These three provisions prohibit Department of Justice (DOJ) from consolidating firearms sales records, electronically retrieving the records of former firearms dealers, and maintaining information on persons who have passed firearms background checks. In addition, the conference agreement contains numerous one-year firearms protections, and new language prohibiting DOJ from requiring imported shotguns to meet a ""sporting purposes"" test.

- Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Oversight – The Conference Report includes new oversight reforms at HUD, including: oversight reports on how community development program funds are used, reforms to the mismanaged HOME Investment Partnerships Program, required reports on eliminating waste, fraud and abuse; a 37.5% funding cut for the mismanaged HOME Investment Partnerships Program; and no funding for the unauthorized “Sustainable Communities” program.

- Gitmo - The report continues provisions related to Guantanamo Bay – including a prohibition on the transfer or release of any detainee into the U.S., and a prohibition on the acquisition or construction of any new prison to house detainees.

- Federal Home Loan Reform – The bill does not increase the maximum loan limits for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. These entities have been under public scrutiny for their questionable businesses practices and use of billions in federal bailout funds, some of which have been used for extravagant management bonuses. The bill limits the increase in the conforming loan limits to only the Federal Housing Authority (FHA), which is subject to greater congressional scrutiny and oversight.

- Climate Change – The conference agreement does NOT include funding to establish a new National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Climate Service. The Administration requested $322 million to establish this new entity within NOAA.

Disaster Funding – Numerous major natural disasters this year have cost states and communities billions – requiring historic levels of relief and recovery assistance. Federal agencies are receiving relief requests from nearly every state, and it is critical that Congress provide necessary funds to help families, businesses, and communities recover from these devastating disasters.

After close scrutiny of disaster funding needs within the Departments of Transportation, Commerce, and Agriculture, the Conference Report provides $2.3 billion in disaster relief funding for these agencies –approximately $850 million less than the Senate-passed legislation. These funds will be used solely for recovery related to natural disasters and catastrophes and will not grow the underlying budget or size of these agencies.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:58Z
https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases/amodei-balanced-budget-amendment-breaks-washingtons-spending-addiction,Amodei: Balanced Budget Amendment breaks Washington's spending addiction,2011-11-17,2011,2011-11,Republican,House,NV,Mark E. Amodei,A000369,amodei.house.gov,amodei,https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases,scraper,"MMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Brian Baluta (202) 225-6155

November 17, 2011

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Congressman Mark Amodei (NV-2) today issued the following statement in support of H.J. Res. 2 -- Proposing a balanced budget amendment to the Constitution of the United States:

""Washington, D.C. has a fatal spending problem, which is every American's problem because it's dragging down our economy and our way of life. Unless we get spending under control now, the country we give our grandchildren will be in far worse shape than the one we inherited.

""This is a town where a spending increase can be called a spending cut, because it wasn't as big as desired. This is a town that's proven time and again that it can't help itself -- it's addicted to spending. The Balanced Budget Amendment says to Congress and the President, 'Enough is enough. Mortgaging the future of our grandchildren is not an option.'

""Unfortunately, like any addict, there are people in Washington that don't want to quit spending. Instead, they want more taxes, more of your money, and more of your company's money to spend. They'll tell you that they only want to tax the rich and corporations, but when taxes are raised, we all pay more in the form of fewer jobs, lower wages and higher prices for goods and services.

""So strong is their addiction to spending, they'll also resort to claiming that a balanced budget will end Medicare and Social Security, which is a lie. The truth is that if Washington keeps spending like it does, debt and liabilities will consume the federal budget. A sure fire way to end Medicare and Social Security is to maintain the status quo, ignore the problem, and keep spending like there's no tomorrow.""

""We need to break the addiction. Federal government spending is not the answer to every problem. And I firmly believe that Nevadans want less federal spending, not more.""

Background:

If approved by a two-thirds majority of each chamber of Congress and ratified by three-fourths of state legislatures, H.J. Res. 2 would amend the Constitution to prohibit federal spending in any fiscal year from exceeding receipts for that year. The balanced budget requirement could be waived in a given year if three-fifths of both chambers approve a law to allow spending to exceed revenues.

In addition, the amendment would require a vote of three-fifths of both chambers to increase the statutory debt limit. The amendment would also require the President to submit a balanced budget to Congress each fiscal year and would require a majority vote of Congress to approve any tax increase. Total spending would include all U.S. outlays except those for repayment of debt principal.

# # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:58Z
https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=758D5C0A-BC6F-4528-9079-63396DBCB795,Representative DesJarlais Votes for Balanced Budget Amendment to the Constitution,2011-11-17,2011,2011-11,Republican,House,TN,Scott DesJarlais,D000616,desjarlais.house.gov,desjarlais,https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center,scraper,"Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) today voted in favor of H.J. Res. 2: Proposing a balanced budget amendment to the Constitution of the United States.

The following statement can be attributed to Rep. DesJarlais:

“Recent polls show that 74% of Americans are in favor of a Balanced Budget Amendment to the Constitution. With that level of overwhelming support, it amazes me that many of my colleagues could vote against this bill today and claim they are putting the American people before political interests. I hope that voters will take a long, hard look at what Members of Congress refused to support this commonsense measure to get our nation’s fiscal house in order and hold them accountable.

“After casting 859 votes in the United States House of Representatives, I can honestly say that the failure of this bill hurt the most. I’ve never walked off the House Floor with such a heavy heart.

“Although I am deeply disappointed that today’s legislation fell short of the two-thirds majority needed for passage, I will continue to fight for a Balanced Budget Amendment to our Constitution. It is the right thing to do.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:58Z
https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases/amodei-votes-support-second-amendment-rights,Amodei votes to support Second Amendment rights,2011-11-16,2011,2011-11,Republican,House,NV,Mark E. Amodei,A000369,amodei.house.gov,amodei,https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases,scraper,"IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Brian Baluta (202) 225-6155

November 16, 2011

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Congressman Mark Amodei (NV-2) today voted in favor of H.R. 822 the National Right-to-Carry Reciprocity Act of 2011, which passed the House with bipartisan support 272 to 154. This legislation would require states that permit carrying concealed firearms to recognize such permits from other states.

Amodei had previously voted in support of this legislation as a member of the House Judiciary Committee, where all anti-gun amendments offered to weaken the legislation were defeated. Data presented in the committee markup conclusively showed that individuals who go through the process of getting permits are not committing crimes.

""Americans are citizens, not subjects,"" said Amodei. ""All Americans have the Constitutional right to defend themselves, their families and their property. This legislation would enable millions of law-abiding permit holders to exercise their right to self-defense when traveling outside their home states.""

Presently, 49 states have laws to permit citizens to carry concealed firearms. Only Illinois completely denies residents the right to carry a concealed firearm outside their homes or businesses for self-defense.

# # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:58Z
https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases/amodei-statement-supreme-court-review-health-care-law,Amodei statement on Supreme Court review of health care law,2011-11-15,2011,2011-11,Republican,House,NV,Mark E. Amodei,A000369,amodei.house.gov,amodei,https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases,scraper,"I believe that the individual mandate is unconstitutional and it is my hope that the Supreme Court will overturn it. Already, during my short time in Congress, I voted to repeal a provision of the President's health care law that raised eligibility f

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Brian Baluta (202) 225-6155

November 15, 2011

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Congressman Mark Amodei (NV-2) today issued the following statement regarding the Supreme Court's decision to take up the challenges to the President's health care legislation:

""I believe that the individual mandate is unconstitutional and it is my hope that the Supreme Court will overturn it. Already, during my short time in Congress, I voted to repeal a provision of the President's health care law that raised eligibility for Medicaid far beyond the intended poverty level. This correction is estimated to save taxpayers at least $13 billion over 10 years. I eagerly await the Court's decision and from there we'll be able to assess the path for repealing what amounts to government control of 16% of our economy.""

# # #

2012-01-06 10:23:00 2012-01-13 11:36:00 2011-11-15 07:28:00 False False",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:58Z
https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases/congressman-amodei-host-meet-and-greet-fernley,Congressman Amodei to host 'meet and greet' in Fernley,2011-11-15,2011,2011-11,Republican,House,NV,Mark E. Amodei,A000369,amodei.house.gov,amodei,https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Brian Baluta (202) 225-6155

November 15, 2011

*MEDIA ALERT*

RENO -- Congressman Mark Amodei (NV-2) announced today that he will host a ""meet and greet"" event in Fernley on Saturday, November 19, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., at Fernley City Hall. It will be open to the public and media. For additional information, please contact the Reno district office at 775-686-5760.

Fernley

Saturday, November 19

9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

Fernley City Hall

595 Silver Lace Boulevard

Fernley, Nevada 89408

# # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:58Z
https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases/amodei-invites-elko-county-commission-chairman-testify-natural-resources-hearing,Amodei invites Elko County Commission Chairman to testify at Natural Resources hearing,2011-11-14,2011,2011-11,Republican,House,NV,Mark E. Amodei,A000369,amodei.house.gov,amodei,https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Brian Baluta (202) 225-6155

November 14, 2011

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Congressman Mark Amodei (NV-2) today announced that at his invitation, Elko County Commission Chairman Demar Dahl will testify on Tuesday, November 15 before the Natural Resources Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests and Public Lands.

Dahl, who is the County's lead negotiator with the Forest Service on travel management, will be a witness at a hearing on ""U.S. Forest Service Regulatory Roadblocks to Productive Land Use and Recreation.""

""Agencies in Washington, D.C. tend to proceed as if they know best and can ignore their legal responsibilities to coordinate with local stakeholders,"" said Amodei. ""Living with the consequences of public land designations is something that we Nevadans know a lot about, which is why I want to thank Chairman Bishop and Ranking Member Grijalva for the opportunity to bring an expert from Nevada to provide feedback on this vital issue.""

Dahl has extensive experience coordinating with the Forest Service and has also worked on key legislation pertaining to water rights. He was a charter Member Federal Land Conference, president of the Nevada Cattlemen’s Association, and member of the Nevada State Environmental Commission.

The hearing will begin at 10:00 a.m. ET on Tuesday, November 15.

# # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:58Z
https://aderholt.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/aderholt-statement-administrations-approval-nationwide-christmas-tree,Aderholt Statement on Administration's Approval of Nationwide Christmas Tree Tax,2011-11-09,2011,2011-11,Republican,House,AL,Robert B. Aderholt,A000055,aderholt.house.gov,aderholt,https://aderholt.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"USDA Approval of Christmas Tree Tax Reveals Concern About the Administration’s Continued Tax-and-Spend Policies

Washington, D.C. — Congressman Robert Aderholt (AL-04), today released the following statement in wake of the Administration’s approval of a new 15 cent on all Christmas trees, that is slated to pay for a nationwide, government sponsored ad campaign to promote the benefits of live Christmas trees:

“The federal government in the midst of the worst budgetary situation in recent history and while Congress looks to make $1.2 trillion in critical spending cuts and implement policies promoting private-sector job growth, the Administration’s new Christmas tree tax and ad campaign is clear evidence of misaligned and misguided priorities in Washington,” said Aderholt.

“As the House continues to fight for additional spending cuts and free-market solutions, the Administration is once again challenging American liberty and now defaming the real meaning and spirit of Christmas. The size and role of government has already grown to epic proportions over recent years and the Administration’s use of the holidays to promote their goals of increased government intervention and a tax-and-spend agenda is simply unacceptable,” concluded Aderholt.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:58Z
https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases/amodei-administrations-policies-stand-way-job-creation,Amodei: administration's policies stand in way of job-creation,2011-11-04,2011,2011-11,Republican,House,NV,Mark E. Amodei,A000369,amodei.house.gov,amodei,https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Brian Baluta (202) 225-6155

November 4, 2011

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- In response to today's jobs numbers from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Congressman Mark Amodei (NV-2) said that it's time for the President Obama to recognize that his promised economic recovery has not materialized and that his administration's economic policies do not work.

""The first step toward recovery is admitting that you have a problem,"" said Amodei. ""This administration needs to admit that its policies of record spending, uncontrolled debt, excessive regulations, and the threat of higher taxes are not the solution. They are the problem.""

From February 2009, when the President's “stimulus” was signed into law, through October 2011, the economy has shed 2,047,000 jobs -- an average of 62,030 jobs lost each month. The administration claimed national unemployment would be 6.5 percent today if the stimulus was enacted. According to the latest BLS figures, it is 9 percent.

The Congressional Budget Office estimates the cost of that failed program will reach $825 billion and interest on the debt will be at least $347 billion. As of September 2011, unemployment in Nevada is 13.4% -- the highest in the nation. The October numbers by state will be released November 22, 2011.

""Our country now ranks 13th in the world for 'ease of starting a business' according to a World Bank report,"" said Amodei. ""In 2007, we ranked third. Stymieing entrepreneurship is not going to get people back to work.""

This year, the Republican majority in the House has passed numerous pieces of legislation to liberate job creators from the destructive polices of the administration. Twenty-two of those bills, which would foster economic growth and job creation, are stuck in the Democrat-controlled Senate.

While the Senate stalls, there are:

• 1,293,000 job seekers who are new to the workforce and have yet to find a job. The number of new workers who cannot find a job has been above one million for two years.

• 5,876,000 Americans unemployed and searching for work for more than 27 weeks in the month of October. Since President Obama took office, the number of people unemployed for more than 27 weeks increased by 139 percent.

• 45,837,824 Americans receiving food stamps -- the most in any month in history, which is an increase of 40 percent since President Obama took office.

# # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:58Z
https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=698F0AFB-6CC0-4E51-B019-9F35B0F238C1,Representative DesJarlais Statement on October Jobs Report,2011-11-04,2011,2011-11,Republican,House,TN,Scott DesJarlais,D000616,desjarlais.house.gov,desjarlais,https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center,scraper,"Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) issued the following statement in response to the October Jobs Report. Since President Obama took office, the nation’s unemployment rate has gone from 7.8 percent to 9.1 percent and the number of unemployed Americans has increased by two million. Additionally, the federal debt has increased from $10.6 trillion to $14.9 trillion.

“Today’s jobs numbers are a grim reminder that President Obama’s failed economic policies have done little to create jobs in this country. For over two years now our nation’s unemployment rate has exceeded 9 percent despite the passage of the president’s nearly trillion dollar stimulus package that he assured us would keep unemployment under 8 percent.

“Now, we see President Obama back on the campaign trail promoting even more government spending through a second stimulus package, which he calls a “jobs plan.” Unfortunately for him, it seems that even Congressional Democrats have begun to distance themselves from this president’s misguided economic policies and have been more than hesitant to embrace his stimulus package. Perhaps they are just as alarmed as I am that this president has already increased the amount of debt per person from $34,731 to $47,796.

“House Republicans understand that we need real solutions that will give America’s job-creators the tools and confidence they need to start creating jobs in local communities. I’ve visited more than 40 businesses as part of my “Tennessee Job Creators Tour” and the message I get from them is clear: stop over-spending, stop over-taxing and, above all, stop over-regulating.

“To date, House Republicans have passed more than 20 bipartisan jobs-bills specifically aimed at creating an environment that will allow small businesses to grow and hire. Unfortunately, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid has blocked these commonsense pieces of legislation from even being voted on. Rather than continuing to push for more government spending that will do little to spur job creation, President Obama should encourage Senate Democrats to take up the House-passed jobs bills.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:58Z
https://mcclintock.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/balanced-budget-amendment-introduced,Balanced Budget Amendment Introduced,2011-11-04,2011,2011-11,Republican,House,CA,Tom McClintock,M001177,mcclintock.house.gov,mcclintock,https://mcclintock.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Congressman Tom McClintock (CA-04) and 11 cosponsors today introduced House Joint Resolution 84, a balanced budget constitutional amendment. The amendment consists of 27 words and prohibits the government from increasing U.S. debt except for a specific purpose and with the approval of three-fourths of Congress.

Congressman McClintock discussed the legislation in a House Floor speech. The remarks are attached below.

Back to Basics with the Balanced Budget Amendment

House Chamber, Washington, D.C.

November 2, 2011

Mr. Speaker: The International Monetary Fund estimated that as of Halloween night, the debt of this nation surpassed its entire economy for the first time since World War II. We all know that if you live beyond your means today you must live below your means tomorrow. That’s the tomorrow that our generation has created for the children who were dressed up as princesses and cowboys when they came calling on Monday. That is our generation’s eternal shame, and something that our generation must set right.

The House is expected soon to vote on a balanced budget amendment that is critical to stop this plunder of our children. There are a number of excellent proposals out there and I would have no trouble supporting any of them.

I do rise, however, to express the hope that the final product of these deliberations proves worthy of the wisdom that guided the drafting of the Constitution.

The beauty of the American Constitution is in its simplicity and its humility. The American Founders recognized Cicero’s wisdom that “the best laws are the simplest ones.” And they realized that they couldn’t possibly foresee the circumstances and conditions that may confront future generations and therefore they resisted the temptation to micro-manage every decision that might be made centuries in the future. Instead, they set forth general principles of governance and erected a structure in which human nature itself would naturally guide future decisions to comport with those principles.

In crafting a balanced budget amendment, we need to maintain these qualities. We should not attempt to tell future generations specifically how they should manage their revenues and expenditures in times that we cannot comprehend. The experience of many states that operate under their own balanced budget amendments tells us that the more complicated and convoluted such strictures become, the more they are circumvented and manipulated.

Many have quoted Jefferson’s 1798 letter to John Taylor as support for a balanced budget amendment. Here’s what he actually wrote:

“I wish it were possible to obtain a single amendment to our Constitution. I would be willing to depend on that alone for the reduction of the administration of our government to the genuine principles of its Constitution; I mean an additional article, taking from the federal government the power of borrowing.""

What is a balanced budget? It’s simply a budget that doesn’t require us to borrow. Then why not just say so, as Jefferson did?

Instead of trying to define fiscal years, outlays, expenditures, revenues, emergencies, triggers, sequestrations and on and on, I hope we would consider 27 simple words:

“The United States government may not increase its debt except for a specific purpose by law adopted by three-fourths of the membership of both Houses of Congress.”

That’s it.

Such an amendment, taking effect ten years from ratification, would give the government time to put its affairs in order and thereafter naturally require future Congresses to maintain both a balanced budget and a prudent reserve to accommodate fluctuations of revenues and routine contingencies. It trusts that three-fourths of Congress will be able to recognize a genuine emergency when it sees one and that one-fourth of Congress will be strong enough to resist borrowing for light or transient reasons. The experience of the states has warned us that a 2/3 vote is insufficient to protect against profligacy.

Some advocate going much farther and establishing limitations on spending and taxation as well, but if borrowing is prohibited, there exists a natural limit to the ability and willingness of the people to tolerate taxation and therefore spending. The real danger is when run-away spending is accommodated by borrowing – a hidden future tax – and the best and most effective way to invoke that natural limit is a simple prohibition.

At the end of the week, I will introduce this 27-word amendment and ask my colleagues to consider it with the many others that are now before the Congress. As I said, I like virtually all of them – they all accomplish the purpose of restraining the reckless deficits that our generation has produced. But in drafting an amendment to guide not only this generation, but all those to follow, I would hope that we would do as the Constitutional Convention would have done if it had the benefit of Jefferson’s wise counsel: set down the general principle only and allow future generations, with their own insight into their own challenges, to put it to practical effect.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:58Z
https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases/rep-amodei-host-meet-and-greet-events-reno-elko-and-winnemucca,"Rep. Amodei to host 'meet and greet' events in Reno, Elko and Winnemucca",2011-11-03,2011,2011-11,Republican,House,NV,Mark E. Amodei,A000369,amodei.house.gov,amodei,https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Brian Baluta (202) 225-6155

November 3, 2011

*MEDIA ALERT*

RENO -- Congressman Mark Amodei (NV-2) today announced that he will host three ""meet and greet"" sessions in Northern Nevada on Monday, November 7 and Tuesday, November 8. Each stop is open to the public and media. In addition to his local team, Amodei's entire Washington, D.C. staff will be on hand to meet constituents. For additional information, please contact the Reno district office at 775-686-5760.

Monday, November 7

Reno

Bruce Thompson Federal Building

400 S. Virginia Street, Suite 502

9:00 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. -- Media Availability

9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. -- Open House

Elko

City Hall, City Council Chambers

1751 College Avenue

5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. -- Meet and greet for public and media

Tuesday, November 8

Winnemucca

City Hall

90 W. 4th Street

4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. -- Meet and greet for public and media

# # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:58Z
https://aderholt.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/aderholt-floor-statment-god-we-trust,Aderholt Floor Statment: In God We Trust,2011-11-01,2011,2011-11,Republican,House,AL,Robert B. Aderholt,A000055,aderholt.house.gov,aderholt,https://aderholt.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of this resolution reaffirming ``In God We Trust'' as the official motto of the United States of America.

The motto is more than just a slogan. It defines the sentiments, I believe, of the Founding Fathers. While they never intended there to be an official state religion, they fully endorsed the idea of the acknowledgement of God.

From the opening of each day in the House and in the Senate with prayer, to the private prayers of the individual Founders, the Founders indeed did put their trust in God. I believe they knew in their hearts that God had a special place for the United States of America and this new Nation.

And while they knew that a Christian and godly Nation could never be achieved by any legislation that Congress could pass, they knew it was the people of the Nation who would individually receive God in their hearts for this to be truly a godly Nation.

So today, Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this resolution that's before us reaffirming our motto ``In God We Trust.''",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:58Z
https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases/amodei-lithium-agreement-path-jobs-and-economic-growth-nevada,Amodei: lithium agreement is path to jobs and economic growth for Nevada,2011-10-31,2011,2011-10,Republican,House,NV,Mark E. Amodei,A000369,amodei.house.gov,amodei,https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Brian Baluta (202) 225-6155

October 31, 2011

RENO – Congressman Mark Amodei (NV-2) today praised an agreement between Reno-based Western Lithium and the U.S. Department of Energy’s Argonne National Laboratory as a major step toward the commercialization of lithium carbonate from the company’s Kings Valley lithium project in Humboldt County. Western Lithium estimates that the mine will employ 150 full-time workers.

“This partnership is an important step in leveraging our region’s mineral wealth to create jobs and economic growth for Reno, Humboldt County, and Nevada,” said Amodei. “We are uniquely positioned to meet the rising global demand for lithium, which is used in everything from mobile devices to hybrid and electric vehicles.”

Under the agreement, Argonne will analyze and develop Western Lithium’s products for battery applications. The Kings Valley lithium deposit is potentially one of the world’s largest sources of high quality lithium carbonate.

“We believe that the industry will continue to require improved product specifications for current and future lithium-ion battery applications,” said Western Lithium President Jay Chmelauskas. “Our work with Argonne is intended to develop lithium specifications suitable to engage potential customers for lithium carbonate off take agreements and ultimately to advance the Kings Valley project into production.”

Argonne is a leader in advanced battery and energy storage research and development. In the last three years, the research laboratory has executed several licensing deals for a lithium-ion battery technology with General Motors, BASF, Envia, LG Chem and Toda America.

For more information about the agreement, please go to www.westernlithium.com/news-items/4618

# # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:51Z
https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases/celebrate-silver-state-rep-amodei,Celebrate the Silver State with Rep. Amodei,2011-10-27,2011,2011-10,Republican,House,NV,Mark E. Amodei,A000369,amodei.house.gov,amodei,https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Brian Baluta (202) 225-6155

October 27, 2011

Carson City, Nev. – Congressman Mark Amodei (NV-2) will participate in the Nevada Day festivities in his hometown of Carson City on Saturday, October 29.

He will attend the pancake breakfast at the Governor's Mansion, hosted by the Carson City Republican Women's Club from 7:00 a.m. to 9:30 a.m., to help raise scholarship funds for two high school seniors -- one from Carson City and one from Dayton.

Amodei will drive his 1986 GMC truck down the parade route, which is scheduled to being at 10:00 a.m. He will be accompanied by his mother Joy, his daughters Erin and Ryanne, his nephew Riley, his niece Abby, and his two dogs.

""Anytime the House is not in session, I'm back home in Nevada, so I'm happy to join my neighbors to celebrate this year's theme -- Nevada's Great Outdoors -- which is one of my favorite things about the Silver State,"" said Amodei.

# # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:51Z
https://aderholt.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/aderholt-announces-fourth-congressional-district-ag-and-industry-tour,Aderholt Announces Fourth Congressional District Ag and Industry Tour,2011-10-26,2011,2011-10,Republican,House,AL,Robert B. Aderholt,A000055,aderholt.house.gov,aderholt,https://aderholt.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 26, 2011

CONTACT: Anne Marie Malecha, 202.225.4876

Aderholt Announces Fourth Congressional District Ag and Industry Tour

Twelfth Annual Event Showcases Business in Cullman and Walker Counties

Washington, D.C.— Congressman Robert Aderholt (AL-04) today announced the dates and locations for the twelfth annual Fourth Congressional District Agriculture and Industry Tour. Taking place on Thursday, November 10th and Friday, November 11th the event will highlight businesses in Cullman and Walker Counties of Alabama.

Among the business and sites Congressman Aderholt and tour participants will visit are: in Cullman, Cullman Cabinet and Supply, Gold Vine Farms and Stone Bridge Farms; in Jasper, Smith Dam and Hydroelectric Facility; in Bremen, HH Technologies; and in Hanceville, the Burrow Museum for the Fine and Performing Arts at Wallace State Community College.

“North Alabama’s various industries, small businesses and agriculture have a vital impact on our region and I believe it is important to support and learn as much about them as possible,” said Aderholt. “In addition to being a wonderful learning experience for me, this tour also gives me the opportunity to meet and visit with constituents from across the district. I encourage anyone who has an interest in participating to call the Cullman district office for further details.”

“From farms to fine arts, each of these locations is an example of the economic impact being made in the Fourth Congressional District and the great state of Alabama. At each stop we will take a walking tour and receive an overview of the business at that location. I look forward to another successful, engaging tour.”

The Fourth Congressional District Agriculture and Industry tour visited sites in Marshall and DeKalb counties in 2010, Walker county in 2009, Marshall and DeKalb counties in 2008, and Cullman and Winston counties in 2007. Congressman Aderholt hosted the very first Ag and Industry tour in 2000 in Blount, Marshall and DeKalb counties.

The Agriculture and Industry Tour is open to anyone who would like to attend, however space is limited. Anyone interested in attending should contact Jennifer Taylor in the Cullman District Office at (256) 734-6043. The registration fee for the two-day event, which includes transportation, dinner and lunch, is $100, or $50 for only one day.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:51Z
https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases/amodei-appoints-senior-district-and-washington-staff,Amodei appoints senior district and Washington staff,2011-10-26,2011,2011-10,Republican,House,NV,Mark E. Amodei,A000369,amodei.house.gov,amodei,https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Brian Baluta (202) 225-6155

October 26, 2011

RENO, Nev. and WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Today, Congressman Mark Amodei (NV-2) announced the appointment of his senior district and Washington, D.C. staff.

""I'm very pleased with the talented team that we were able to assemble to serve the people of the 2nd Congressional District of Nevada,"" said Amodei. ""I want all my constituents to know that they shouldn't hesitate to contact either my Nevada or Washington offices with their questions and concerns related to the federal government.""

Sworn in to office on September 15, 2010, Amodei moved quickly to establish his personal and district offices and hopes to open an additional district office shortly. His virtual office is www.amodei.house.gov.

To date, his team includes:

Reno Office: 400 S. Virginia St., Suite 502, (775) 686-5760

Stacy Legarza Parobek, District Director

A Reno resident, Parobek has experience in both Carson City and Washington, D.C., including official and campaign positions with former U.S. Senator Paul Laxalt. A 1985 graduate of the University of Oregon with a Bachelor of Science degree in political science, Parobek is the mother of three children, ages 12, 17 and 20.

Washington, D.C. Office: 125 Cannon House Office Building, (202) 225-6155

Rick Goddard, Chief of Staff

A veteran of six U.S. House, Senate and Presidential campaigns, with official positions in the House and Senate, Goddard joins Amodei's office after six years with a professional trade association. A 1998 graduate of the University of Arizona with a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science, he is the father of one with one on the way.

Bruce F. Miller II, Legislative Director

With more than nine years of campaign and legislative experience, Miller comes to Amodei's office from the Republican Study Committee (RSC) where he advised RSC members and staff with analysis and vote recommendations. He is a 2002 graduate of the University of Colorado with a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science.

Brian L. Baluta, Communications Director

Baluta brings more than 12 years of communications experience in the private sector and the U.S. House of Representatives to Amodei's office. Most recently he oversaw a public outreach team for the U.S. Department of Justice. Baluta is a 1999 graduate of Syracuse University with a Bachelor of Science degree in public relations.

Paige E. Hensgens, Operations Coordinator

A 2009 graduate of Louisiana State University, with a Bachelor of Science degree in mass communication, Hensgens comes to Amodei's team from the Office of Congressman Charles Boustany, where she held several positions including staff assistant, legislative correspondent and systems administrator.

# # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:51Z
https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases/amodei-assigned-natural-resources-committee,Amodei assigned to Natural Resources Committee,2011-10-26,2011,2011-10,Republican,House,NV,Mark E. Amodei,A000369,amodei.house.gov,amodei,https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Brian Baluta (202) 225-6155

October 26, 2011

WASHINGTON D.C. – House Natural Resources Committee Chairman Doc Hastings (WA-04) today announced Congressman Mark Amodei (NV-2) as the newest member of the committee. This is Amodei's third and final committee assignment in addition to the Judiciary and Veterans Affairs committees.

""With our vast mineral wealth and expansive public lands, a seat on the House Natural Resources Committee is important for Nevada's 2nd Congressional District,"" said Amodei. ""How best to leverage those resources for job creation and economic growth, while preserving the uniqueness of our landscape and our way of life, is a top priority.""

""I’m pleased that the newest member of the Republican majority - Rep. Mark Amodei - will be joining the Natural Resources Committee,"" said Hastings. ""Mark’s sprawling Nevada congressional district is comprised of large portions of public lands and his knowledge of western land issues is a welcome addition to the Committee. Committee Republicans welcome Mark and are looking forward to working with him to create jobs and keep America’s public lands and waterways open and accessible for all forms of use.""

The House Natural Resources Committee considers legislation about American energy production, mineral lands and mining, fisheries and wildlife, public lands, oceans, Native Americans, irrigation and reclamation. Additionally, Republicans on the House Natural Resources Committee are working on a wide range of important issues, including:

Increasing America's economic competitiveness and creating new jobs.

Oversight of the Obama administration.

All-of-the-above energy approach.

Securing our border on federal lands.

For more information on the House Natural Resources Committee, go to naturalresources.house.gov.

# # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:51Z
https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=5A41B93D-4405-41BD-BE7E-6090997A4C8C,"Representative DesJarlais Cosponsors ""One Percent Spending Reduction Act of 2011""",2011-10-25,2011,2011-10,Republican,House,TN,Scott DesJarlais,D000616,desjarlais.house.gov,desjarlais,https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center,scraper,"Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) has signed on as cosponsor of H.R. 1848, the “One Percent Spending Reduction Act,” introduced by Representative Connie Mack (FL-14). This plan, commonly referred to as the “Mack Penny Plan,” would balance the federal budget in 2019 by eliminating one penny out of every dollar spent for six years and then cap spending at 18% of gross domestic product (GDP) in the 7th year. In total, the “Mack Penny Plan” is estimated to save taxpayers around $7.5 trillion over ten years.

“This plan will force the federal government to do something that it should have done a long time ago – prioritize its spending. While the Penny Plan would ensure that we make the real cuts that the American people expect, it also provides flexibility by allowing Congress and the president to identify where those cuts come from as long as they equal 1% of total spending. Wasteful programs could see significant cuts, while programs that run efficiently may not be cut at all,” said Representative Scott DesJarlais. “Surely, with trillion dollar deficits and rampant waste, fraud and abuse, we can at least cut one percent out of every federal dollar spent? Individuals in Tennessee’s Fourth Congressional District have had to cut much more out of their own budgets and it’s beyond time for Washington to do the same.”

Key Provisions of the One Percent Spending Reduction Act of 2011:

Cuts federal spending by 1% each year for 6 years;

Caps spending at 18% of GDP in the 7th year;

Balances the federal budget in the 8th year; and

Saves taxpayers $7.5 trillion over 10 years.

Enforcement of Spending Cuts: The one percent spending cuts would be achieved one of two ways: either 1) Congress and the President work together to enact program reforms and cut federal spending by one percent each year; or 2) If Congress and the President fail to do so, the bill triggers automatic, across-the-board spending cuts to ensure the one percent reduction is realized.

“I’m grateful that Scott has signed on as a cosponsor of this legislation. His strong record of fighting for commonsense fiscal reforms is exactly the type of leadership that we need and I look forward to working with him in moving the Mack Penny Plan through congress,” said Representative Connie Mack. “Clearly his constituents in Tennessee are telling him the same things that mine are in Florida – get Washington’s spending problem under control.”

“There is absolutely no way that we can continue to borrow 40 cents out of every dollar to finance the federal government’s reckless spending binge. This legislation is yet another item in a long list of good ideas that House Republicans have to get our nation’s fiscal house in order. The Democrat’s strategy of taxing and spending has led to nothing but trillion dollar deficits and a downgrade of our credit rating by Moody’s,” noted DesJarlais. “I hope my Democratic colleagues have finally gotten the message that the American people expect them to work with House Republicans in enacting real spending reforms like the One Percent Spending Reduction Act of 2011.”

Click here to see a video of Representative Mack discussing the “Penny Plan” with Sean Hannity.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:51Z
https://mcclintock.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/herlong-post-office-to-remain-open,Herlong Post Office to Remain Open,2011-10-25,2011,2011-10,Republican,House,CA,Tom McClintock,M001177,mcclintock.house.gov,mcclintock,https://mcclintock.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"The United States Postal Service (USPS) has confirmed to Congressman McClintock’s office that the Herlong post office is no longer on the list of postal facilities slated for closure.

“I have vigorously opposed attempts to close rural post offices while the USPS maintains its monopoly on first-class mail delivery,” remarked Congress McClintock. “If the USPS wants to close rural post offices or reduce services and leave residents with no alternatives, I believe – and will insist – that it should surrender its monopoly status so that energetic entrepreneurs can fill the breach and offer these communities more efficient and more economical service than the current bureaucratized arrangement.”

In communication with the Postmaster General in support of keeping the Herlong post office open, Congressman McClintock stated that the closure of post offices in small towns not well-served by other facilities would run contrary to the mission of the USPS to provide prompt, reliable and efficient service to patrons in all areas without discriminating against rural communities. Specifically, Congress has stipulated that “no small post office shall be closed solely for operating at a deficit, it being the specific intent of Congress that effective postal services be ensured to residents of both urban and rural communities.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:51Z
https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases/statement-congressman-amodei-presidents-visit-las-vegas,Statement from Congressman Amodei on president's visit to Las Vegas,2011-10-24,2011,2011-10,Republican,House,NV,Mark E. Amodei,A000369,amodei.house.gov,amodei,https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases,scraper,"I'm happy that the President has changed his mind about the propriety of visiting Las Vegas, but with all due respect, between his harmful comments about our tourism industry in 2009 and 2010 and the continued failure of his economic policies

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Brian Baluta (202) 225-6155

October 24, 2011

Today, Congressman Mark Amodei (NV-2) issued the following statement:

""I'm happy that the President has changed his mind about the propriety of visiting Las Vegas, but with all due respect, between his harmful comments about our tourism industry in 2009 and 2010 and the continued failure of his economic policies, I think he's done enough already for Nevada.

""When the President and his party controlled Washington, they could have done anything that they wanted to encourage economic growth and address the mortgage crisis. Instead they drove up record debt, squandered taxpayer dollars on bailouts for politically-connected companies, and froze job-creation with harmful regulations like Obama-care and Dodd-Frank.

""Now, with bipartisan opposition to the President's economic plan, he wants to bypass Congress in order to advance more misguided policy. Such a move ignores the basic message that was sent with my election in September and the turnover of the House last November: Nevadans and the American people don't want more of a political agenda. They want results on the ground.""

# # #

2012-01-04 13:43:00 2012-01-13 11:42:00 2011-10-24 10:45:00 False False",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:51Z
https://aderholt.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/aderholt-supports-protect-life-act,Aderholt Supports The Protect Life Act,2011-10-13,2011,2011-10,Republican,House,AL,Robert B. Aderholt,A000055,aderholt.house.gov,aderholt,https://aderholt.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 13, 2011

CONTACT: Anne Marie Malecha, 202.225.4876

Aderholt Supports The Protect Life Act

Legislation Would End Taxpayer Funded Abortion In Federal Health Care Law

click here to watch

Washington, D.C.— Congressman Robert Aderholt (AL-04) today released the following statement after the United States House of Representatives passed H.R. 358, the Protect Life Act. The bill prohibits federal funding of abortions and abortion coverage under the recently enacted health care law.

“Protection of unborn life is a universal issue that has become one of the most unifying causes over the past several decades,” said Aderholt. “There is one thing a majority of Americans can agree upon and that is that they do not want to see taxpayer dollars used to pay for abortions and I whole-heartedly agree.”

“The healthcare legislation that was signed into law in 2010 does not protect the unborn and in no way included clear or direct provisions that would prohibit federal funding of abortions, and the President’s Executive Order 13535 on this issue was wholly inadequate. Executive Orders can be rescinded at any time and cannot be relied upon to clarify such a critical matter.”

“I am proud to have cosponsored the Protect Life Act and its passage today is an important step in ensuring the right to life of each and every human being is preserved and protected in our great nation.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:51Z
https://aderholt.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/aderholt-statement-passage-trade-agreements,Aderholt Statement on Passage of Trade Agreements,2011-10-12,2011,2011-10,Republican,House,AL,Robert B. Aderholt,A000055,aderholt.house.gov,aderholt,https://aderholt.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 12, 2011

CONTACT: Anne Marie Malecha, 202.225.4876

Aderholt Statement on Passage of Trade Agreements

House Passes Colombia, Panama and Korea Free Trade Agreements

Washington, D.C.— Congressman Robert Aderholt (AL-04) today released the following statement after the House passed the extension of the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) and trade agreements between the United States and Colombia, Panama and Korea.

“This is a global economy and there has to be a market for Alabama goods such as beef, chicken and agriculture products,” said Aderholt. “However trade agreements only work if it is equally beneficial to both countries. And lately it seems that the biggest export for the United States has been jobs in the manufacturing and textile industries. Therefore, I voted against the Korean Free Trade Agreement, due to the possibility of even more of these jobs could be sent overseas.”

“In addition, with the extension of the Generalized System of Preferences in its current form, American sleeping bag manufacturers, like Exxel Outdoors, are now facing a grim reality of whether they can afford to do business within the United States. GSP was designed to be a mutually beneficial agreement between the US and friendly developing nations that would provide lower costs to American operations but also protect our import sensitive industries. However a loophole is hurting American sleeping bag manufacturers like Exxel Outdoors and compelled me to vote no on this provision.”

“The extension passed today, was passed without addressing GSP’s current flaw and the result of this inaction could mean another 100 plus people could be standing in the unemployment line in North Alabama, a region that has been devastated by natural disaster and is already facing an unemployment rate of over 15 percent.”

“Companies like Exxel Outdoors that have fought to bring overseas jobs, back to the United States should be celebrated and rewarded for invigorating our nation’s economy, instead with the passage of this provision they are being punished and once again those American jobs could become a thing of the past,” concluded Aderholt.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:51Z
https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=3A7400EF-0408-4253-836D-BF1F0E9630F4,Representative DesJarlais Returns from Healthcare-Focused Congressional Delegation Trip to Afghanistan,2011-10-12,2011,2011-10,Republican,House,TN,Scott DesJarlais,D000616,desjarlais.house.gov,desjarlais,https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center,scraper,"Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) returned on Tuesday, October 11, from a five day Congressional Delegation trip to Afghanistan. The purpose of this trip was to learn more about the healthcare services provided for our nation’s armed forces from forward operating medical facilities in Afghanistan. Rep. DesJarlais, who traveled with members of the GOP Doctor’s Caucus and Veterans Affairs Committee, had an opportunity to visit several medical facilities and assess the conditions of troops in the field.

The following quote can be attributed to Rep. DesJarlais:

“It is hard to even put into words just how proud I am of our brave men and women in uniform. While visiting our troops serving in Afghanistan I was incredibly impressed by the level of professionalism and dedication they displayed despite adverse conditions. Without a doubt, we have the finest fighting force in the world and we should take a moment every single day to give thanks for these brave individuals who are willing to put their lives on the line to protect our freedom.

“I’m also pleased to report that our medical resources in Afghanistan are second to none. I had a chance to view where soldiers arrive from the battlefield, like the trauma units at the hospital at Bagram Airfield in Afghanistan. I also had an opportunity to visit Landstuhl Medical Center in Ramstein, Germany where wounded warriors receive further care and are ultimately transported home. As a physician, I was extremely impressed by the quality of these facilities and I hope that the families of our deployed servicemen and women can take comfort in the fact that their loved ones are receiving the best medical care possible. In fact, we learned that if a wounded soldier is transported within one hour from the site of injury to a hospital, they have over a 95% chance of survival. This is made possible, in part, by numerous gifted surgeons like Dr. James Richardson of Columbia, TN and Dr. William Obremskey of Vanderbilt University, who have volunteered to serve their country by caring for our troops overseas.

“This visit truly reinforced my appreciation for all that our military does. Their selflessness and willingness to make sacrifices for the good of our nation is inspirational. They are absolutely America’s finest and I will continue to work to ensure that these heroes always receive the highest quality of care. May God bless America and may God bless our troops.”

Click here to download photos of Rep. DesJarlais’ trip to Afghanistan.

*Other members of the delegation who took part in the October 6, 2011 trip included Rep. Phil Roe (TN-01), Rep. Jeff Denham (CA-19), Rep. Dan Benishek (MI-01) and Rep. Tim Walz (MN-01).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:51Z
https://mcclintock.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/roseville-town-hall-meeting,Roseville Town Hall Meeting,2011-10-12,2011,2011-10,Republican,House,CA,Tom McClintock,M001177,mcclintock.house.gov,mcclintock,https://mcclintock.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Congressman McClintock will hold a town hall meeting on Thursday, October 20th at 6:00 PM in Roseville. The meeting will be held at Oakmont High School, in the auditorium. The high school is located at 1710 Cirby Way, Roseville.

# # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:51Z
https://aderholt.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cybersecurity-task-force-releases-recommendations,Cybersecurity Task Force Releases Recommendations,2011-10-05,2011,2011-10,Republican,House,AL,Robert B. Aderholt,A000055,aderholt.house.gov,aderholt,https://aderholt.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Framework for Legislative Action Unveiled in the House

Washington, D.C.— The House Cybersecurity Task Force today unveiled its recommendations to help guide legislative action for the remainder of this Congress and beyond. The Task Force formally delivered its report to the Speaker and Majority Leader earlier this week.

“Cybersecurity attacks are a direct threat to our economy and job creation, as well as our national security. The task force has addressed this critical issue in a thoughtful and substantive way, and I look forward to working with our committee chairmen and all our members to examine and act on these recommendations in the coming weeks and months. I particularly want to thank Rep. Thornberry and our members for all of their hard work in putting together this report,” said House Speaker John Boehner.

Reflecting a growing concern about malicious cyber activity, House Speaker John Boehner and Majority Leader Eric Cantor formally created the Cybersecurity Task Force in June. They asked Rep. Mac Thornberry to lead the effort and appointed members from nine committees with significant jurisdiction on the issue, as well as three at-large members. They charged the group with making recommendations in four key areas: authorities, information sharing and public-private partnerships, critical infrastructure, and domestic legal frameworks.

“These recommendations provide sound, concrete steps to help strengthen our cybersecurity now, while also highlighting issues that need more work,” said Rep. Thornberry, who chaired the Task Force. “Starting with incentives, information sharing, and updating some key laws can lead to real progress rather than more gridlock like we have seen with larger proposals,” he continued.

The recommendations highlight the critical need for the improvement of existing information sharing structures and the development of an active defense capability. Taken together, such efforts would improve security and disseminate real-time information designed to help target and defeat malicious cyber activity.

Also included in the framework is the adoption of voluntary incentives to encourage private companies to improve cybersecurity, such as the development of voluntary standards through a public-private partnership, utilizing existing tax credits and grant funding to promote increased security, and studying the possible role the insurance industry may play in strengthening cybersecurity. Suggestions for oversight and reporting requirements are also outlined.

The group mentions several federal laws dealing with cybersecurity that need to be updated with an eye toward reform, including Federal Information Security Management Act (FISMA) of 2002, Computer Fraud and Abuse Act (CFAA) of 1986, as well as other communications laws and criminal statutes.

Finally, the Task Force acknowledges that updating legal authorities is among the most complex issues facing lawmakers. It does recommend certain areas where Congress should begin action on updating these authorities, including the federal government defining a proactive process for Defense Support of Civil Authorities (DSCA) and increased support from the Department of Defense to the broader federal government. The group also suggests that Congress should formalize the Department of Homeland Security’s current role in coordinating cybersecurity for federal civilian agencies’ computer and networks.

The Task Force represents a broad cross-section of the House Republican Conference and the committees of jurisdiction on the issue of cybersecurity. In addition to Rep. Thornberry, Members serving in the group include Reps. Robert Aderholt (R-AL), Jason Chaffetz (R-UT), Mike Coffman (R-CO), Bob Goodlatte (R-VA), Robert Hurt (R-VA), Bob Latta (R-OH), Dan Lungren (R-CA), Mike McCaul (R-TX), Tim Murphy (R-PA), Steve Stivers (R-OH), and Lee Terry (R-NE).

Comments from Task Force Members:

Rep. Robert Aderholt:“Cybersecurity poses some of the most serious economic and national security challenges our nation faces. Additionally, in today’s tight budget environment we must ensure every dollar spent equals security realized. I am proud of the work of the Cybersecurity Task Force and the fiscally responsible policy recommendations we have laid out today. I look forward to working with my colleagues on this vital national security issue going forward.”

Rep. Jason Chaffetz: “America is under attack. As a nation we must do a better job of identifying, preventing, and proactively engaging those who would do us harm.”

Rep. Mike Coffman:“Cybersecurity is a rapidly evolving challenge, and I am confident that our Task Force’s recommendations will put us on the right track in helping to protect our networks from attacks that could threaten both our national and economic security.”

Rep. Bob Goodlatte:“I applaud the work of the Task Force and in particular Chairman Thornberry. I look forward to continuing our efforts in this important and vital area. These recommendations provide an excellent framework for the House to craft legislation relating to cybersecurity.”

Rep. Robert Hurt:“I appreciate the opportunity to be a part of the Cybersecurity Task Force and to work with my colleagues on cybersecurity policy, and I want to thank Congressman Thornberry for his leadership on this very important issue. Cybersecurity affects nearly every aspect of our lives – our economy, financial sector, national security, and daily communications – and it is critical that we take the necessary steps to increase our cybersecurity protections across the country. Together, the Task Force has produced a unified set of recommendations that will help modernize our approach to cybersecurity to keep pace with the evolving threats, while remaining committed to the principles of a limited government, the protection of individual privacy and property rights, a commitment to safety and security, and a partnership with the private sector. As we all work together to implement solutions to address the growing threats of cyber attacks, it is my hope that both the House and the Senate will act on these recommendations.”

Rep. Bob Latta:“The security of our Nation’s information networks is a critical matter of personal privacy and economic competitiveness. The recommendations of the Task Force will be used to educate Members of Congress, as well as constituents, about the gravity of this issue. If 85 percent of the threats to our information systems can be prevented with proper “cybersecurity hygiene,” public knowledge and best practices, we can go a long way to reducing cyber attacks.”

Rep. Dan Lungren: “The world of cyberthreats and cyberwarfare is upon us. We have to establish cybersecurity as a priority sooner rather than later. The consensus among experts is that 85% of current cyberthreats can be thwarted by current cyber hygiene. Public awareness is one or our first priorities.”

Rep. Mike McCaul:""Admiral Mike Mullen has called cyber warfare one of the greatest threats to our national security. Today this task force is ready to move forward to address our most critical needs. Our recommendations echo many of those in the CSIS report we presented to the President when he took office including securing federal networks from theft and espionage, and protecting our critical infrastructure. I look forward to swift progress passing many of the ideas where we have agreement including my Cybersecurity Enhancement Act, which unanimously passed through committee and awaits a vote on the House floor.""

Rep. Tim Murphy: “The new frontier of national security is cybersecurity. The recommendations unveiled this week were developed out of the experiences and ideas of national security experts, private sector innovators, and our congressional colleagues with an understanding of the dangers that come with electronic vulnerability. Our framework centers on the premise that cybersecurity entails all aspects of our society, from government business to commercial transactions to our national infrastructure.”

Rep. Steve Stivers: “The cyber threat is real and impacts all aspects of our lives, including our jobs, national security, and personal information. As a member of the House Cybersecurity Task Force, I believe the recommendations will ensure the federal government leads by example, protects critical infrastructure, and creates incentives for private sector companies to adopt cybersecurity protection standards. By strengthening a partnership with the private sector, the federal government can step up cybersecurity protections, and at the same time raise awareness for all Americans to do our part to protect ourselves and our way of life.”

Rep. Lee Terry:“After months of work on the Cyber Task Force, one thing is very clear, and that is that our country is in need of sound policy that will protect us from 21st century attacks to our critical infrastructure. I am confident that the framework we are providing the Speaker will help to shape this needed policy as Committees begin their work in drafting legislative language.”

Read the full Cybersecurity Task Force recommendations.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:51Z
https://mcclintock.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/taxpayer-protection-legislation-to-repeal-risky-stimulus-loans-approved-by,Taxpayer Protection Legislation to Repeal Risky Stimulus Loans Approved by House Committee,2011-10-05,2011,2011-10,Republican,House,CA,Tom McClintock,M001177,mcclintock.house.gov,mcclintock,https://mcclintock.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"The House Natural Resources Committee today passed Congressman Tom McClintock’s legislation, H.R. 2915, the American Taxpayer and Western Area Power Administration Customer Protection Act of 2011. The legislation repeals the 2009 Stimulus Act’s new $3.25 billion Western Area Power Administration (WAPA) loan authority, including the taxpayer bailout provision for failed renewable energy transmission projects.

“Recent events make it clear that billions of dollars of taxpayer funds have been placed in jeopardy to support companies that obviously lack the merit to attract private investments,” said Congressman McClintock. “These dubious interests rely instead on political connections with government officials to access taxpayer funds. As they collapse, the taxpayers end up holding the bag. It is time to require every sector of the energy industry to raise its own capital through its own merit rather than to perpetuate the crony capitalism that is now running rampant through this government.”

The legislation would specifically repeal Section 301 of the Hoover Power Plant Act of 1984, which was amended by the Stimulus Act to suddenly create the new borrowing authority. It would not apply to any projects already approved before September 15, 2011.

The legislation next will be voted on by the full House of Representatives.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:51Z
https://aderholt.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/aderholt-bachus-fema-will-not-tear-down-storm-shelters,"Aderholt, Bachus: FEMA Will Not Tear Down Storm Shelters",2011-10-04,2011,2011-10,Republican,House,AL,Robert B. Aderholt,A000055,aderholt.house.gov,aderholt,https://aderholt.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.— Congressman Robert Aderholt (AL-04) and Congressman Spencer Bachus (AL-6) said today that they have been informed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) that it will not force the demolition of emergency storm shelters at schools in Alabama.

FEMA officials told Congressmen Aderholt and Bachus that they will work with school administrators on a plan that would enable them to acquire the structures and keep them open to protect students and citizens in the community. Details of the proposal remain to be finalized with the schools, but the congressmen said they have been assured by representatives of FEMA Director Craig Fugate that there is no threat of storm shelters being torn down or moved.

“After discussions with FEMA and local officials regarding current storm shelter policy, I’m pleased we are working toward a common sense solution that will benefit our students, communities and taxpayers. FEMA and Administrator Fugate stepped up to the plate, ensuring that the bureaucratic process not stand in the way of safety,” said Congressman Aderholt, who is Chairman of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security.

“It never made sense to tear down perfectly good storm shelters, and it’s a relief that is totally off the table. Ensuring that storm shelters are available to protect our children and citizens has been an even greater priority for Alabama since the deadly tornadoes this spring. My hope was always that that this problem could be solved by common sense, rather than by legislation, and from our discussions with FEMA today that is where we are headed,” said Congressman Bachus, who introduced a bill on September 14 to prevent the removal of demolition of the storm shelters.

Under existing FEMA policy, storm shelters built with FEMA funds to serve portable classrooms can be potentially be torn down once damaged schools have been repaired or replaced. While the structures can be purchased from FEMA at “fair market” rates, the cost is prohibitive for school systems already dealing with storm-related expenses.

The policy came under sharp criticism from school officials and communities faced with losing a newly-built and fully functioning storm shelter.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:51Z
https://aderholt.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/aderholt-traveling-help-desk-visit-red-bay-and-double-springs,Aderholt Traveling Help Desk to Visit Red Bay and Double Springs,2011-10-04,2011,2011-10,Republican,House,AL,Robert B. Aderholt,A000055,aderholt.house.gov,aderholt,https://aderholt.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Congressional Staff On-Site to Assist Constituents with Federal Casework

Washington, D.C.— Congressman Robert Aderholt (AL-04) today announced that District Field Representative Daniel Tidwell will be in Red Bay and Double Springs on Thursday, October 13, 2011 to provide assistance to those needing help working with federal agencies.

“With a district that stretches across the state, it can be difficult for people to travel to our district offices when they need help,” said Aderholt. “By bringing district staff to local communities, we can effectively assist those who otherwise would be unable to get support. This is an excellent opportunity for folks to come and discuss their issues with Daniel, who will help me begin the process of finding solutions for them.”

October 13, 2011 Traveling Help Desk Hours

Red Bay

Double Springs

Red Bay Town Hall

Double Springs Town Hall

9:00 – 11:00 a.m.

1:00 – 3:00 p.m.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:51Z
https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=F50B456B-C5EB-4A6F-82B3-E8EBD9EBD45A,Representative DesJarlais Votes Against Short-Term Continuing Resolution,2011-10-04,2011,2011-10,Republican,House,TN,Scott DesJarlais,D000616,desjarlais.house.gov,desjarlais,https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center,scraper,"On Tuesday, October 4, 2011, Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) released the following statement after voting against H.R.2608, Continuing Appropriations Act, 2012, which would fund the federal government until November 18th, 2011:

“Today marks 888 days since the Democrat-controlled Senate has passed a budget – one of its fundamental legislative responsibilities. As a result, we have had to run the government on these stop-gap measures that continue that add economic uncertainty and prevent the private sector from creating jobs.

“The House did its job and passed the Path to Prosperity, a commonsense budget that will decrease both spending and the size of government so that we can finally get our nation’s fiscal house in order. I was proud to vote in favor of this legislation.

“I stand very firm on my belief that until the Senate can pass their own budget, they need to adopt ours. Unfortunately, this continuing resolution would fund the government through November 18, 2011 at an annual level of $24 billion above the House-passed Ryan budget.

“We must not capitulate in our mission to get our nation’s reckless spending under control. By not sticking to the spending parameters put forth in the Path to Prosperity, we run the risk of sending the message to job creators that Washington is still not willing to get serious in tackling its deficits and debt.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:51Z
https://jordan.house.gov/media/press-releases/medicare-annual-enrollment-period-changed,Medicare Annual Enrollment Period Changed,2011-10-04,2011,2011-10,Republican,House,OH,Jim Jordan,J000289,jordan.house.gov,jordan,https://jordan.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"October 4, 2011

The Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) has moved to October 15 through December 7, 2011 this year. This is a change from past years.

The Ohio Department of Insurance has created a Medicare Annual Enrollment Period informational page on its web site, www.insurance.ohio.gov. This page contains valuable information about the annual enrollment process, including a list of Medicare outreach events taking place in every Ohio county. If you would like more information about Medicare's Annual Enrollment Period, please visit the web site, or call OSHIIP at 1-800-686-1578 between 7:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:51Z
https://aderholt.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/aderholt-franks-fortenberry-send-letter-behalf-christian-iranian-pastor,"Aderholt, Franks, Fortenberry Send Letter on Behalf of Christian Iranian Pastor",2011-09-29,2011,2011-09,Republican,House,AL,Robert B. Aderholt,A000055,aderholt.house.gov,aderholt,https://aderholt.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Congressmen Robert Aderholt (AL-04), Trent Franks (AZ-02) and Jeff Fortenberry (NE-01) today sent a letter to Iranian Grand Ayatollah Khamenei on behalf of Pastor Youcef Nadarkhani, who has been sentenced to execution as early as today for refusing on four separate occasions to recant his Christian faith.

Congressman Robert Aderholt:

“Religious freedom is one of the most important and fundamental rights a person should have. The conviction and sentencing of Iranian Christian Pastor, Mr. Youcef Nadarkhani because of his religious beliefs is very unfortunate and violates basic human rights and Iran’s international commitments. No one should be persecuted, discriminated against or face death because of their faith and it is my sincerest hope that Iran’s leaders do what is right and release Pastor Nadarkhani and all those facing persecution because of their faith.”

Congressman Trent Franks:

""I am compelled to remind an ostensibly modernized government that it is shameful and cowardly to kill an innocent person for merely practicing his faith. While Iran's leaders claim to uphold tolerance, the Iranian people deserve to know that their government is hypocritically disregarding one of the most fundamental human rights: the ability of the Iranian people to freely choose a faith of their choice.

""I appeal to whatever semblance of humanity may remain in the hearts of Iran's leaders and urge the Obama Administration to make it clear, through every channel possible, that such grievous human rights abuses will not stand.""

Congressman Jeff Fortenberry:

“I am deeply grieved by reports of the apostasy verdict issued in the case of Pastor Nadarkhani. The scope and nature of religious persecution in Iran is deeply disturbing. Leaders in the civilized community of nations must speak out loudly and clearly against such a drastic violation of basic and commonly held human rights norms.”

The full text of the letter is attached and available here.

Aderholt currently serves as Chairman of the Subcommittee on Homeland Security for the powerful House Appropriations Committee, is a member of the Committee’s Commerce, Justice and Science; and Agriculture Subcommittees, and also serves on the Helsinki Commission.

For more information about Aderholt’s work in Congress visit www.aderholt.house.gov.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:45Z
https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=8DE44A97-6480-4D53-8BFD-82AE1434C612,Representative DesJarlais Votes Against Amended Continuing Resolution,2011-09-22,2011,2011-09,Republican,House,TN,Scott DesJarlais,D000616,desjarlais.house.gov,desjarlais,https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center,scraper,"On Thursday, September 23, 2011, Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) released the following statement after voting against the amended Continuing Resolution:

“After reviewing the updated Continuing Resolution, I still did not find that it contained a sufficient level of spending reductions. Clearly we need to get our nation’s fiscal house in order and the only way to do that is to institute serious spending cuts and reforms.

“I voted in favor of the Path to Prosperity because it is a credible plan that will finally get our nation’s debt under control. Unfortunately, this Continuing Resolution exceeded the spending levels that were set forth in that budget.

“I remain committed to making the tough spending decisions necessary to put our nation back on the right fiscal track and give employers the confidence to start creating jobs.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:45Z
https://aderholt.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/aderholt-floor-statement-fy12-continuing-resolution,Aderholt Floor Statement: FY12 Continuing Resolution,2011-09-21,2011,2011-09,Republican,House,AL,Robert B. Aderholt,A000055,aderholt.house.gov,aderholt,https://aderholt.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Remarks as Prepared)

click here to watch

Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of this must-pass resolution.

Not only does this CR provide the necessary funds and authority to keep the government operating, it also provides an immediate and substantial infusion of vital funding to both FEMA’s disaster relief efforts and the Corps of Engineers’ Flood Control and Coastal Emergencies account – and it does all of this in a fiscally responsible way.

This resolution before us today complies with the recently enacted Budget Control Act and also provides the Appropriations Committees of the House and Senate ample time to complete our work on the FY12 budget.

And, for hard-hit communities all across the country – including those in my home State of Alabama – who have been so badly devastated by fires, flooding, tornadoes, and hurricanes over the past five months, this CR will sustain FEMA’s disaster relief and recovery efforts and help the Corps with additional funding for emergency flood control projects.

And the duration of this CR will provide the time to review and scrutinize FEMA’s preliminary damage estimates for Hurricane Irene – estimates that are based upon historical projections rather than actual data and claims that are still in the process of being collected.

This oversight will enable the Appropriations Committees the time to properly and responsibly address the Administration’s full supplemental request – a request that was only submitted to Congress less than two weeks ago.

While Congress has an undeniable obligation to thoroughly address our Nation’s disaster relief needs, we can no longer afford to simply throw money at calamities and then ask the hard questions later. We have to get our funding priorities right – and that is exactly what both Chairman Rogers and I have repeatedly said when it come to appropriations for homeland security.

Mr. Speaker, this CR is the right tool at the right time. I urge my colleagues to support this vital resolution and responsibly address our Nation’s most pressing needs.

I thank the distinguished Chairman and yield back the balance of my time.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:45Z
https://aderholt.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/continuing-resolution-keeps-focus-job-creation-disaster-relief-and,"Continuing Resolution Keeps the Focus on Job Creation, Disaster Relief and Cutting Government Spending",2011-09-21,2011,2011-09,Republican,House,AL,Robert B. Aderholt,A000055,aderholt.house.gov,aderholt,https://aderholt.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"CONTACT: Anne Marie Malecha, 202.225.4876

Aderholt: Continuing Resolution Keeps the Focus on Job Creation, Disaster Relief and Cutting Government Spending

Washington, D.C.— Congressman Robert Aderholt (AL-04) released the following statement today regarding the passage of a Continuing Resolution (CR) that for a second year in a row cuts spending, adds a much needed $3.65 billion for ongoing disaster relief efforts and keeps the government running until November 18:

“The Continuing Resolution passed by the House today is a critical piece of legislation that once again cuts spending below last year’s levels, while providing vital disaster relief funding and prevents a government shutdown,” said Aderholt. “The Senate and the President must look past partisan politics, avoid brinksmanship and move swiftly on this measure to ensure uninterrupted government operation.”

“Since the House passed the FY12 Homeland Security Appropriations bill in June, which included an additional $1 billion for FEMA’s disaster relief efforts, continued inaction by the Senate and the Administration has allowed the Disaster Relief Fund to reach critically and historically low levels. On the heels of five months of devastating natural disasters across the country, including tornadoes in my home state of Alabama, the DRF has less than $250 million in its coffers.”

“Recent issues with FEMA’s storm shelter policy have also brought to light the need for additional oversight, to ensure policies and procedures are best benefitting disaster victims and taxpayers alike. The CR provides a much needed, immediate $1 billion infusion, as well as an additional $2.65 billion to fund FEMA’s disaster relief efforts over the next fiscal year. This bill also provides Congress with the time to conduct greater oversight and ample time to evaluate and accurately account for damages from the most recent disaster, Hurricane Irene.”

“We must work together to get our economy back on track and remove government barriers to private-sector job growth. The American people do not want or deserve the dangerous instability of a government shutdown or any more unnecessary holdups in disaster recovery efforts,” concluded Aderholt.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:45Z
https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=6D729079-2EFC-4488-8D13-D68A81B56E4F,Representative DesJarlais Votes Against Continuing Resolution,2011-09-21,2011,2011-09,Republican,House,TN,Scott DesJarlais,D000616,desjarlais.house.gov,desjarlais,https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center,scraper,"On Wednesday, September 21, 2011, Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) released the following statement after voting against H.J. Res. 79: Continuing Appropriations Resolution, 2012.

The following quote can be attributed to Rep. DesJarlais:

“First and foremost, I’m terribly disappointed that we are still having to vote on continuing resolutions due to the Democrat controlled Senate’s inability to pass a budget after almost 900 days. Failing to meet this most fundamental duty is completely unacceptable and I hope that voters will hold Senate Democrats accountable for their inaction and lack of leadership.

“In April, the House of Representatives passed the Paul Ryan budget. I voted in favor of this legislation as I firmly believe that it provides a credible, long-term blueprint for how to get our nation’s debt and deficits under control, as well as put our economy on a more prosperous course.

“Although I was disappointed that the Senate did not pass this budget – while still not producing any budget of their own – House Republicans have consistently introduced and passed spending bills that are in line with the spending levels put forth the in the Ryan Budget.

“Unfortunately, this current Continuing Resolution, which will fund the government through November 18, 2011, exceeds the discretionary spending caps put forth in the Ryan plan.

“By failing to honor the spending levels set forth in the Ryan Budget, we are sending a clear message that Washington continues to be unwilling to get serious when it comes to federal spending. This will only further degrade the private sector’s confidence in our economic outlook and prevent small businesses from creating badly needed jobs.

“My constituents expect more. They expect Congress to put forth and implement real solutions to get our nation out of a $14.74 trillion dollar debt. They don’t want the government to borrow more, they don’t want the government to spend more and they certainly don’t want the government to tax more. It is time to make serious spending cuts and shrink the size of government.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:45Z
https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases/amodei-sworn-represent-2nd-district-nevada,Amodei sworn in to represent 2nd District of Nevada,2011-09-15,2011,2011-09,Republican,House,NV,Mark E. Amodei,A000369,amodei.house.gov,amodei,https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Brian Baluta (202) 225-6155

U.S. Representative Mark Amodei was sworn in this afternoon as a Member of the United States House of Representatives. Congressman Amodei represents the 2nd congressional district of Nevada.

# # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:45Z
https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=5E93B2F3-6CC1-43EB-BA1A-DF734880EF26,Representative DesJarlais Statement on Passage of Protecting Jobs from Government Interference Act,2011-09-15,2011,2011-09,Republican,House,TN,Scott DesJarlais,D000616,desjarlais.house.gov,desjarlais,https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center,scraper,"Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) released the following statement today upon passage of the Protecting Jobs from Government Interference Act (H.R. 2587) in the House of Representatives:

“The fact that a government agency could have the ability to dictate where a private business can operate is shocking. With over 14 million Americans out of work, there is absolutely no reason that Washington should be taking any action that would prevent the private sector from creating jobs.

“It is simply inexcusable for the NLRB to threaten to destroy thousands of new jobs by preventing Boeing from opening a new plant in South Carolina. As a citizen of Tennessee, which like South Carolina is Right to Work State, I’m extremely concerned about this setting a dangerous precedent.

“Passing this legislation today is a critical step to preventing NLRB from dictating where businesses can expand based purely on political reasons. I encourage the Senate to pass this bill and join House Republicans in fostering an environment that will allow the private sector to grow and create jobs.”

Earlier this year, the Oversight and Government Reform Committee, which Rep. DesJarlais is a member of, opened an investigation into action by the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) that potentially jeopardizes Boeing’s work to open a new manufacturing facility in South Carolina and create thousands of jobs. The Committee held a June field hearing in Charleston to hear from workers and job creators about the likely impacts of this action",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:45Z
https://aderholt.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/aderholt-statement-fema-storm-shelter-policy,Aderholt Statement on FEMA Storm Shelter Policy,2011-09-14,2011,2011-09,Republican,House,AL,Robert B. Aderholt,A000055,aderholt.house.gov,aderholt,https://aderholt.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Congressman Robert Aderholt (AL-04) released the following statement regarding storm shelter policy issues that are affecting Alabama communities and schools:

“I spoke directly with FEMA Director Craig Fugate today, and he acknowledges the problem with this particular situation and over the next thirty days, I’ll be working with him and my delegation colleagues to find a solution. In addition, Congressman Bachus (AL-06) and I introduced legislation today that would make storm shelters available to local governing bodies at no additional costs. Hopefully this will not take an act of Congress to ensure we get this done and get it done right.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:45Z
https://aderholt.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/aderholt-statement-nasa-sls-announcement,Aderholt Statement on NASA SLS Announcement,2011-09-14,2011,2011-09,Republican,House,AL,Robert B. Aderholt,A000055,aderholt.house.gov,aderholt,https://aderholt.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Congressman Robert Aderholt (AL-04) released the following statement in response the announcement made by NASA today to proceed with development of the Space Launch System (SLS):

“Today’s announcement by NASA to move forward with the development of the Space Launch System is a great step forward in maintaining America’s leadership in human space flight. However, it is long overdue and I am eager to see the details of this decision. I will work to ensure that NASA proceeds with the 130-metric ton SLS plan passed by Congress. I am proud that the SLS will be managed in Alabama and will put the best and the brightest scientists and engineers in our great state to work on this critical venture. I will continue to monitor the situation and continue the fight to keep human space flight funded at appropriate levels as an American priority.”

Aderholt currently serves as Chairman of the Subcommittee on Homeland Security for the powerful House Appropriations Committee, is a member of the Committee’s Commerce, Justice and Science, which provides funding for NASA; and Agriculture Subcommittees, and also serves on the Helsinki Commission.

For more information about Aderholt’s work in Congress visit www.aderholt.house.gov.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:45Z
https://aderholt.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/smith-and-aderholt-dhs-provide-information-backdoor-amnesty,Smith and Aderholt to DHS: Provide Information on Backdoor Amnesty,2011-09-12,2011,2011-09,Republican,House,AL,Robert B. Aderholt,A000055,aderholt.house.gov,aderholt,https://aderholt.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"CONTACT: Anne Marie Malecha, 202.225.4876

Washington, D.C.— Today, House Judiciary Committee Chairman Lamar Smith (R-Texas) and Homeland Security Subcommittee Chairman Robert Aderholt (R-Ala.) sent a letter to Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Janet Napolitano requesting information and documents about the development of the administration’s backdoor amnesty for illegal immigrants.

The letter follows the Obama administration’s recent decision to create a new deportation policy that could open the door to allow millions of illegal immigrants to remain in the U.S. without a vote of Congress. Specifically, political appointees at DHS have announced that they will review illegal immigrants in removal proceedings with a final order of removal and consider allowing them to stay in the U.S.

In addition to this letter, Chairmen Smith and Aderholt wrote to the Obama administration expressing serious reservations about Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) new guidance directing reckless use of prosecutorial discretion in immigration enforcement.

Below are excerpts from the letter.

“The Department of Homeland Security announced that it will initiate a ‘case-by-case review’ of removal cases of aliens already placed in proceedings and ensure that ‘appropriate discretionary consideration’ be given to ‘compelling cases with final orders of removal.’ In addition to our concerns about the administration’s apparent abandonment of immigration enforcement, we also have significant concerns about how this new policy was developed. Accordingly, we write to request information and documents about the development and operation of these new policies.

“This announcement by DHS seemingly represents the culmination of the administration’s plans to shield millions of illegal immigrants from removal. The initial release on June 17 of two memos by ICE took the historically unprecedented step of relying on ‘prosecutorial discretion’ to justify the abandonment of immigration enforcement against millions of illegal immigrants deemed a ‘low priority.’ … Now, DHS has expanded this policy to cover not only individuals already charged with violating the immigration laws and placed in removal proceedings, but even to illegal immigrants who already have final orders of removal.

“This new policy is a perversion of our immigration laws … The Obama administration again chooses to ignore immigration laws under the guise of prosecutorial discretion. Despite the administration’s claims that there is nothing new with respect to this policy, it represents a drastic and unprecedented shift.

“Ultimately, these memos may allow millions of illegal immigrants to remain in the United States in violation of existing law and regulations and compete with unemployed American and legal immigrant workers for scarce jobs. In the current environment, this effect is unconscionable. “

To read the full letter, click here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:45Z
https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=9F61471A-4034-4450-99AB-2E7E38945DCF,Representative DesJarlais Introduces Employer Free Choice Act,2011-09-11,2011,2011-09,Republican,House,TN,Scott DesJarlais,D000616,desjarlais.house.gov,desjarlais,https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center,scraper,"Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) has introduced H.R.2854, the Employer Free Choice Act. This legislation will repeal a rule promulgated by the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) forcing employers to prominently display posters containing information on workers’ rights to unionize and bargain collectively. If not repealed, businesses will be required to have the postings completed by November 14, 2011.

“It is unacceptable for the NLRB to force businesses to display posters that serve as nothing more than a de facto endorsement of unionization by the federal government,” said Representative DesJarlais. “If employers want to distribute information on the ways employees can unionize then that should be their choice – not Washington bureaucrats. Clearly, this arbitrary mandate is simply another favor for big labor made possible by their friends in the Obama administration.”

This legislation came, in part, from input that Representative DesJarlais received during a Tennessee Job Creators Tour stop in Manchester, Tennessee. Rep. DesJarlais visited VIAM Manufacturing, INC., to meet with their executives to discuss ways that Washington is holding back their ability to create jobs. During a roundtable discussion, Keith Hayes, Executive Vice-President of VIAM Manufacturing, voiced concerns over the recent announcement by the NLRB.

“We take great pride in making sure that our employees fully understand their rights, which includes the right to union representation and the right to choose that representation. We do not need, nor is there a reason for the federal government to force us to advertise on behalf of unions in our facility,” said Keith Hayes.

To deliver the regulatory relief job creators in Tennessee deserve, Representative DesJarlais launched his Tennessee Job Creators tour as part of AmericanJobCreators.com. AmericanJobCreators.com allows businesses to play a direct role in ensuring that Washington delivers more efficient, effective regulations that will help them thrive and create jobs. By visiting AmericanJobCreators.com, taxpayers can identify federal government regulations they’ve encountered– either as a business owner or an employee – that impede the growth and success of their business.

Accompanying Representative DesJarlais on his visit to VIAM Manufacturing, INC. and helping to lead the conversation on this ruling was Judd Matheny (R-Tullahoma), Speaker Pro Tempore of the Tennessee House of Representatives.

""The issue of organizing is one best left to employees and the businesses concerned. A Federal mandate to guarantee one person or group's rights over another’s is un-American and another example of an intrusion into the rights of the individual states,"" said Rep. Judd Matheny.

“Both Judd and I agree that Washington should not capriciously dictate how local businesses choose to communicate with their employees regarding unionization issues,” said Rep. DesJarlais. “I thank Judd for his leadership on this issue and I look forward to continuing to work with him and the job creators in my district to foster an environment where businesses can grow and create jobs for Tennesseans.”

This legislation has been referred to the Committee on Education and the Workforce, of which Representative DesJarlais is a member.

“Millions of American workers are unemployed, yet the Obama labor board continues to pursue an activist agenda that is killing jobs and harming the competitiveness of our workforce. If President Obama won't hold them accountable, Congress will. I want to thank Dr. DesJarlais for bringing this proposal forward and for his commitment to reversing the job-destroying agenda of the Obama NLRB,” said Representative John Kline, Chairman of the Education and the Workforce Committee.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:45Z
https://aderholt.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/aderholt-statement-tenth-anniversary-911-attacks,Aderholt Statement on Tenth Anniversary of 9/11 Attacks,2011-09-09,2011,2011-09,Republican,House,AL,Robert B. Aderholt,A000055,aderholt.house.gov,aderholt,https://aderholt.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Congressman Robert Aderholt (AL-04), who will be honoring our nation’s brave heroes at a ceremony in Cullman, Alabama on Sunday, issued the following statement regarding the tenth anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks:

“Ten years ago a group determined through hate, challenged a nation,” said Aderholt. “The United States has long stood as a beacon of freedom and hope. As we have time and time again, Americans responded with resiliency and resolve. America was tested and America prevailed.”

“When I think of this day every year, I am reminded not only of the moment when I first learned of the attacks, but also of the heroic measures taken by first responders and brave citizens responding to the crisis. On this day we turn our thoughts and prayers to the police, firefighters and first responders who without hesitation, ran into burning buildings, many sacrificing their own lives for others. On this day we remember the victims of these senseless attacks and the families and friends they left behind. On this day we honor the brave passengers of Flight 93, who fought, rather than give up. On this day we remember those across the country and the world that came together, prayed, organized vigils, donated blood and sent supplies and care packages to weary rescue workers. And on this day we draw courage from our heroes and the compassion of our citizens, as we are reminded of the resilience that propels us forward as a people.”

“While the past ten years has bred new strands of terrorism and it is clear terrorists still have innocent Americans in their sights, our country continues to make great strides in national security and intelligence. However, all of us must remain vigilant knowing that we live in a dangerous world and know that we as a nation must work together so we will not be defeated by those who want to see the destruction of the United States. With that, on this day we also salute the valor of our troops, who fight the enemy each and every day and protect our people and the beacon of hope and freedom that is America. God Bless America,” concluded Aderholt.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:45Z
https://jordan.house.gov/media/press-releases/jordan-responds-president-obamas-speech-joint-session-congress,Jordan Responds to President Obama’s Speech to a Joint Session of Congress,2011-09-09,2011,2011-09,Republican,House,OH,Jim Jordan,J000289,jordan.house.gov,jordan,https://jordan.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Republican Study Committee Chairman Jim Jordan released the following statement after President Obama delivered a speech on jobs to a Joint Session of Congress. The speech was also attended by more than a dozen private sector job creators who were invited by House Republicans.

""The government doesn't create private sector jobs. Those jobs are created by people who see opportunities, take risks, innovate, and earn success. President Obama and his economic team could learn a thing or two from the real-world job creators that House Republicans invited to be in the gallery tonight.""

""Any job creator in America will tell you that Washington needs to get out of the way. But President Obama insists on more borrowing, more spending, more expensive regulations, and raising taxes on many private sector job creators. To unleash growth in the private sector economy, we must first eliminate the threat of tax hikes, overregulation, and higher energy costs.""

""The President had a real opportunity to lay out a new approach to the economy that would inspire confidence among American families and businesses. While he put forward a few ideas that merit a closer look, much of the speech felt like the movie Groundhog Day. The policies he has championed for the last two and a half years have failed to get our economy moving again. Waking up anew each morning and trying the same failed approach all over again won't work any better.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:45Z
https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=19B91001-E9BC-4759-A77D-F1F0035A9798,"Representative DesJarlais Visits Richland LLC in Pulaski, Tennessee as Part of Tennessee Job Creators Tour",2011-08-30,2011,2011-08,Republican,House,TN,Scott DesJarlais,D000616,desjarlais.house.gov,desjarlais,https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center,scraper,"Creating jobs for Tennesseans is a top priority for Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04). In March, the Congressman embarked on a district-wide “Tennessee Job Creators” tour as part of an effort to receive direct feedback from local business owners and workers. During this fact-finding tour, Rep. DesJarlais will be meeting with businesses of all sizes from a variety of industries, to receive direct feedback from proven job-creators in the Fourth Congressional District on what federal policies are helping or hurting businesses as they strive to expand and create jobs.

“During these difficult economic times, we simply cannot afford to let Washington bureaucrats impose unnecessary regulations that stifle job creation,” said Representative DesJarlais. “It is my hope that by working with those who have a proven record of creating jobs, we can find the right role for Washington – a role that helps businesses to thrive. It is critical that we find solutions that will increase the number of jobs and not the size of the federal government.”

On Monday, August 29, Rep. DesJarlais will be in Pulaski, Tennessee to meet with Richland LLC.

Richland LLC

1905 Mines Road

Pulaski, TN 38478

2:30 – 3:15 p.m. CST

*These events are open press, but are not open to the general public.

Additionally, the congressman is participating in the “Listening to America’s Job Creators” program launched by the Committee on Oversight and Government Affairs, one of the three committees that DesJarlais is serves on. Individuals in the Fourth District that are interested in joining the conversation job creation can provide input by visiting the congressman’s Web site, www.DesJarlais.house.gov, and clicking on the “Listening to America’s Job Creators” button on the homepage. A form will be provided where constituents can identify federal government regulations they’ve encountered– either as a business owner or an employee – that impede the growth and success of their business.

At the conclusion of the “Tennessee Job Creators” tour, Congressman DesJarlais’ office will be compiling a report using information gained from business owners in his district, as well as from submissions received through the Web site, to present to his colleagues on the Oversight and Government Reform Committee.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:39Z
https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=7837F47E-E122-43FF-A420-DFED22ED314D,"DesJarlais, Fleischmann, Corker, Alexander Welcome DOT Proposal to Eliminate Costly Road Sign Replacement Deadlines",2011-08-29,2011,2011-08,Republican,House,TN,Scott DesJarlais,D000616,desjarlais.house.gov,desjarlais,https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center,scraper,"U.S. Senators Bob Corker, R-Tenn., and Lamar Alexander, R-Tenn., and U.S. Representatives Scott DesJarlais, R-Tenn. 4th, and Chuck Fleischmann, R-Tenn.3rd, welcomed the U.S. Department of Transportation’s proposal today eliminating numerous compliance deadlines for replacing old road signs that would have imposed an unfunded mandate on states, costing Tennessee an estimated $50 million. Under the new proposal, communities would only be required to comply with new sign visibility standards when replacing old signs, rather than by arbitrary 2015 and 2018 deadlines. In June, Corker and Alexander introduced legislation (S.1216) to stop this unfunded mandate, giving state and local governments the flexibility to replace signs in accordance with the new standards at the end of their normal life cycle. DesJarlais and Fleischmann introduced companion legislation (H.R.2257) in the House of Representatives.

“As I’ve traveled throughout Tennessee’s Fourth Congressional District, one of the biggest concerns voiced by my constituents is that overregulation by the federal government is taking away from already limited resources. Forcing cash-strapped local governments to arbitrarily replace functioning street signs is a perfect example of how federal regulations often lead to unnecessary expenses. I’m proud to have worked with Senators Alexander and Corker and Representative Fleischmann in addressing this issue and am glad that our efforts helped in leading to the abolishment of this unfunded mandate. It is my hope that today’s proposal is a sign that this administration is finally willing to join us in getting serious about addressing burdensome federal regulations and their unintended consequences,” Rep. DesJarlais said.

“I am pleased that the Obama Administration has heard the calls from local and state governments and Congress, and has waived these burdensome deadlines. Finally the Administration has acknowledged in at least one area that federal rules and regulations can have a very costly impact on local governments. I’m also pleased that the first bill that I introduced played a role in bringing attention to this particular overreach by the federal government. Now, I hope that the Administration will look just as critically at the thousands of other rules and regulations that cost taxpayers dearly and stifles private sector growth,” Rep. Fleischmann said.

“Everyone wants our roads to be as safe as possible, but these arbitrary deadlines assigned by Washington amounted to an unfunded mandate on local governments at a time when they can least afford it. The Department of Transportation’s decision to address our concerns and eliminate these costly deadlines is a common sense one that will help local governments in Tennessee and around the country who are making tough decisions to balance their budgets. Rather than force Tennessee communities to shell out $50 million they don’t have, it’s much more reasonable to let them replace road signs only when they need to be replaced. I thank Senator Alexander, Congressmen Fleischmann and DesJarlais, Governor Haslam, and all the state and local officials who supported this successful effort,” Sen. Corker said.

“I'm glad the administration has seen the light and agrees with us. Tennessee’s state and local governments shouldn't have to pay for thisburdensome, $50 million unfunded mandate,” Sen. Alexander said.

DOT’s new proposal amends the Federal Highway Administration’s (FHWA) updated federal rules governing minimum nighttime visibility standards (known as “retroreflectivity”) for road signs. Under the existing rules, state and local governments are required to present plans for overhauling their old signs by January 22, 2012. Traffic safety signs, such as stop and yield signs, must be replaced by 2015, and all signs must be replaced by 2018. According to estimates from the Tennessee County Highway Officials Association, meeting the current compliance deadlines would cost local governments at least $50 million in Tennessee alone.

Several Tennessee localities submitted public comments detailing the excessive compliance costs imposed by the proposed road sign rules.

On May 30, Governor Haslam signed a resolution, HJR 304, passed by the Tennessee General Assembly calling for Congress to fully fund the FHWA’s mandate.

The Tennessee County Highway Officials Association has said, “It is financially impossible for Tennessee county governments to comply with this unfunded FHWA mandate. Tennessee county governments’ inability to comply with the FHWA sign mandates indirectly exposes all units of local governments to potential litigation. One of the biggest concerns for county governments regarding program mandates is the threat of lawsuits for non-compliance.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:39Z
https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=AA934D40-8FA5-432B-8DB7-75C50DDB0BF9,Representative DesJarlais Launches Senior Listening Tour,2011-08-28,2011,2011-08,Republican,House,TN,Scott DesJarlais,D000616,desjarlais.house.gov,desjarlais,https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center,scraper,"Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) remains committed to maintaining an ongoing conversation with his constituents on important legislative issues being debated in Washington. To help in soliciting feedback from the individuals he represents, Rep. DesJarlais launched his “Tennessee Job Creators” tour, “Listening to Tennessee” tour and telephone town hall series. During these events, DesJarlais has been able to receive guidance and feedback from his constituents on how to best represent them in the United States House of Representatives.

To build upon the success of these efforts, Rep. DesJarlais is pleased to announce his “Senior Listening Tour”. This tour will give Tennessee’s senior citizens and Representative DesJarlais an opportunity to discuss important issues that directly impact seniors, such as Medicare, Social Security and Veterans Affairs.

“There are certainly big challenges facing seniors that need to be addressed. At the top of that list is Medicare, which is on the road to bankruptcy and must be reformed if we hope to save it for current and future generations. I hope that this tour will provide me with an opportunity to hear directly from seniors in my district with regards to how they feel entitlement reform should be approached in Congress and what solutions they have for putting Medicare back on a sustainable path. I remain committed to ensuring that our seniors are taken care of and I look forward to partnering with them in addressing these important issues,” said Representative DesJarlais.

“While traveling throughout our district, I’ve found that my constituents have an abundance of commonsense ideas that could help in solving many of our nation’s fiscal and economic challenges. Whether it is a business owner identifying burdensome federal regulations that hurt his ability to create jobs, or a mother that is simply concerned about the amount of debt being passed onto her children, I rely on my constituents to tell me what issues are important to the Fourth District. Without a doubt, the first step to being a good representative is being a good listener.”

Event Information:

August 30th

Lawrence County Senior Center

220 Centennial Avenue

Lawrenceburg, TN 38464

11:00am-12:00pm CST

August 31st

Whitwell Senior Center

900 S Main Street

Whitwell, TN 37397

9:00-10:00am CST",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:39Z
https://mcclintock.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/congressman-mcclintock-announces-town-hall-meetings-in-chester-susanville,"Congressman McClintock Announces Town Hall Meetings in Chester, Susanville and Alturas",2011-08-25,2011,2011-08,Republican,House,CA,Tom McClintock,M001177,mcclintock.house.gov,mcclintock,https://mcclintock.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"On Saturday, September 10, Congressman McClintock will hold town hall meetings in Chester, Susanville and Alturas:

Chester, 10:00 AM, Almanor Recreation Center, 450 Meadowbrook Loop, Chester.

Susanville, 1:00 PM, Commercial Building, Lassen County Fair Grounds.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:39Z
https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=34DC06A8-268C-4140-BB89-3511170618AE,"Representative DesJarlais Visits Businesses in Manchester, Tennessee as Part of Tennessee Job Creators Tour",2011-08-24,2011,2011-08,Republican,House,TN,Scott DesJarlais,D000616,desjarlais.house.gov,desjarlais,https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center,scraper,"Creating jobs for Tennesseans is a top priority for Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04). In March, the Congressman embarked on a district-wide “Tennessee Job Creators” tour as part of an effort to receive direct feedback from local business owners and workers. During this fact-finding tour, Rep. DesJarlais will be meeting with businesses of all sizes from a variety of industries, to receive direct feedback from proven job-creators in the Fourth Congressional District on what federal policies are helping or hurting businesses as they strive to expand and create jobs.

“During these difficult economic times, we simply cannot afford to let Washington bureaucrats impose unnecessary regulations that stifle job creation,” said Representative DesJarlais. “It is my hope that by working with those who have a proven record of creating jobs, we can find the right role for Washington – a role that helps businesses to thrive. It is critical that we find solutions that will increase the number of jobs and not the size of the federal government.”

On Friday, August 26, DesJarlais will be in Manchester, Tennessee to meet with Newell Rubbermaid and VIAM Manufacturing, Inc.

Newell Rubbermaid

831 Volunteer Parkway

Manchester, TN 37355

10:30 – 11:15 am CST

VIAM Manufacturing, Inc.

157 Park Tower Drive

Manchester, TN 37355

11:30-12:15pm CST

*These events are open press, but are not open to the general public.

Additionally, the congressman is participating in the “Listening to America’s Job Creators” program launched by the Committee on Oversight and Government Affairs, one of the three committees that DesJarlais is serves on. Individuals in the Fourth District that are interested in joining the conversation job creation can provide input by visiting the congressman’s Web site, www.DesJarlais.house.gov, and clicking on the “Listening to America’s Job Creators” button on the homepage. A form will be provided where constituents can identify federal government regulations they’ve encountered– either as a business owner or an employee – that impede the growth and success of their business.

At the conclusion of the “Tennessee Job Creators” tour, Congressman DesJarlais’ office will be compiling a report using information gained from business owners in his district, as well as from submissions received through the Web site, to present to his colleagues on the Oversight and Government Reform Committee.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:39Z
https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=4ED90D48-D6B6-4E48-A509-3BF4C8FEA5C4,Representative DesJarlais Launches Senior Listening Tour,2011-08-23,2011,2011-08,Republican,House,TN,Scott DesJarlais,D000616,desjarlais.house.gov,desjarlais,https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center,scraper,"Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) remains committed to maintaining an ongoing conversation with his constituents on important legislative issues being debated in Washington. To help in soliciting feedback from the individuals he represents, Rep. DesJarlais launched his “Tennessee Job Creators” tour, “Listening to Tennessee” tour and telephone town hall series. During these events, DesJarlais has been able to receive guidance and feedback from his constituents on how to best represent them in the United States House of Representatives.

To build upon the success of these efforts, Rep. DesJarlais is pleased to announce his “Senior Listening Tour”. This tour will give Tennessee’s senior citizens and Representative DesJarlais an opportunity to discuss important issues that directly impact seniors, such as Medicare, Social Security and Veterans Affairs.

“There are certainly big challenges facing seniors that need to be addressed. At the top of that list is Medicare, which is on the road to bankruptcy and must be reformed if we hope to save it for current and future generations. I hope that this tour will provide me with an opportunity to hear directly from seniors in my district with regards to how they feel entitlement reform should be approached in Congress and what solutions they have for putting Medicare back on a sustainable path. I remain committed to ensuring that our seniors are taken care of and I look forward to partnering with them in addressing these important issues,” said Representative DesJarlais.

“While traveling throughout our district, I’ve found that my constituents have an abundance of commonsense ideas that could help in solving many of our nation’s fiscal and economic challenges. Whether it is a business owner identifying burdensome federal regulations that hurt his ability to create jobs, or a mother that is simply concerned about the amount of debt being passed onto her children, I rely on my constituents to tell me what issues are important to the Fourth District. Without a doubt, the first step to being a good representative is being a good listener.”

Event Information:

August 30th

Lawrence County Senior Center

220 Centennial Avenue

Lawrenceburg, TN 38464

11:00am-12:00pm CST

August 31st

Whitwell Senior Center

900 S Main Street

Whitwell, TN 37397

9:00-10:00am CST",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:39Z
https://mcclintock.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cruise-control-act-of-2011,Cruise Control Act of 2011,2011-08-19,2011,2011-08,Republican,House,CA,Tom McClintock,M001177,mcclintock.house.gov,mcclintock,https://mcclintock.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"August 19, 2011

Federal spending has ballooned 28 percent during the Obama Presidency while the government has amassed more debt than it acquired from the first day of George Washington’s administration to the last day of George H. W. Bush’s.

Our nation is racing toward a fiscal cliff. Yet, as Sen. Jim DeMint noted, instead of hitting the brakes, Congress and the President just set the cruise control.

“The Budget Control Act of 2011” offers an object lesson in exactly the sort of empty compromise that has gotten our nation into its present mess. Faced with the devastating consequences of unprecedented and unsustainable federal spending, both parties agreed on only one thing: to lock in that spending for at least the next two years.

Bypassing the normal legislative process, the deal was written behind closed doors and dumped it into the laps of both houses under the threat that failing to pay the government’s bills would jeopardize the nation’s triple-A credit.

Unfortunately, the deal didn’t just pay our current bills – it gave the most spendthrift administration in history an open credit line to continue its spending spree beyond 2012. Ironically, it ended up costing the United States its triple-A credit rating by failing to rein in spending significantly.

Indeed, Standard and Poor’s had explicitly warned for the last two months that $4 trillion had to be cut from the projected ten-year deficit to preserve the nation’s credit. Even if the plan works perfectly, it doesn’t come close.

Yet the same politicians who ignored these warnings were shocked-just-shocked when Standard and Poor’s lowered the boom four days later. Instead, they blamed the “Tea Party” that has been sounding the same alarm for more than two years.

Apologists for the debt deal claim that they “cut a dollar of spending for every dollar of debt increase.” Actually, Congress voted to “cut” annual federal spending from $3.7 trillion this year to $5.4 trillion by 2021, and to “cut” the national debt from $14.3 trillion down to $22.7 trillion. Washington defines this as a “cut” because it would rather spend that much more.

Even adjusting for such charming Beltway colloquialisms, most of the “cuts” don’t take place until after 2017 while the debt increase all happens this year. In the words of the great economist J. Wellington Wimpy, “I will gladly pay you a dollar of cuts ten years from now for a dollar of debt today.”

At least we didn’t get any tax hikes, right? We’ll see. The so-called “super-committee” that does the heavy lifting is charged not with cutting spending but with reducing the deficit – two very different things.

In Washingtonese, “tax increase” means the same as “spending cut” when referring to deficits. Since the debt deal already assumes restoring Clinton-era tax rates, it’s a good bet that tax increases are on the way. After all, since Congress has essentially frozen spending at record levels for the next two years, we're going to have to pay back the trillions of dollars of new borrowing somehow.

Central to the deal is the success of the bipartisan super-committee (the 18th bipartisan commission since 1982 to solve the deficit, for those keeping score).

Set aside, for a moment, the constitutionality of sidelining 523 elected representatives of the people while 12 handpicked appointees of the legislative leaders convene in their place. If a bipartisan group of current members of Congress (which we often call, ‘the Congress’) can’t summon the political will to reduce spending to sustainable levels, why would we place far greater confidence in the proposed bipartisan panel of – wait for it – current members of Congress?”

To its credit, the House adopted two plans that met Standard and Poor’s criteria for preserving the nation’s triple-A credit rating: the House Budget Resolution (also known as the Ryan Plan) passed in April, and the Cut, Cap and Balance Act passed in mid-July. Both would have eventually balanced the budget, both would have ultimately paid off the national debt and both died in the Senate.

This simple fact highlights the unfinished work remaining before the American people. Ultimately, they must decide whether they want to restore the traditional American principle of constitutionally limited government, or whether they are content to summarize this generation’s stewardship of the American Republic with the chilling epitaph of Louis XV’s reign, “After us, the flood.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:39Z
https://mcclintock.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/congressman-tom-mcclintock-announces-town-hall-meetings-in-rocklin-and,Congressman Tom McClintock Announces Town Hall Meetings in Rocklin and Auburn,2011-08-17,2011,2011-08,Republican,House,CA,Tom McClintock,M001177,mcclintock.house.gov,mcclintock,https://mcclintock.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"August 17, 2011

Congressman Tom McClintock will conduct a town hall meeting in Rocklin, Tuesday, August 30, 6:00 PM. The meeting will be held at the Sunset Center, 2650 Sunset Boulevard, Rocklin. The Congressman will conduct a town hall meeting in Auburn, Thursday, September 1, at 6:00 PM. The meeting will be held at the Ridge Events Center, 2020 Golf Course Road, Auburn.

Issues:Local Issues",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:39Z
https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=167F58E6-2587-4C13-B1AB-D5C55D16084D,"Rep. DesJarlais Launches District-Wide ""Listening to Tennessee"" Tour",2011-08-16,2011,2011-08,Republican,House,TN,Scott DesJarlais,D000616,desjarlais.house.gov,desjarlais,https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center,scraper,"On Thursday, August 18th, Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) announced the launch of his “Listening to Tennessee” tour. The tour will be composed of public listening sessions with residents across Tennessee’s Fourth Congressional District. This tour is part of an ongoing effort by the congressman to solicit ideas and opinions from his constituents on important policy issues being debated in Washington, D.C.

“Having a chance to meet with and hear from constituents is a critical part of being a Member of Congress and is a top priority of mine,” said Rep. DesJarlais. “Whether it is through daily conversations with individuals on Facebook or sitting down with business leaders during my Tennessee Job Creators Tour, I look to the people of Tennessee’s Fourth Congressional District for guidance as to how to best represent them in Congress. Fortunately for me, I’m blessed with a well-informed, vocal constituency that has presented me with no shortage of ideas on how we can get our nation back on the right fiscal track and start creating jobs. I look forward to people coming out and continuing the conversation.”

Listening to Tennessee Tour future dates:

August 24th

Listening Session in Dunlap, TN

9:30-10:15 a.m. CST

Sequatchie County Courthouse

22 Cherry Street, #4, Dunlap, Tennessee 3732

Listening Session in Pikeville, TN

10:45 – 11:30 a.m. CST

Bledsoe County Courthouse

3150 Main Street, Pikeville, Tennessee 37367

Listening Session in Sparta, TN

3:45-4:30 p.m. CST

White County Courthouse

1 E Bockman Way, Room 205, Sparta, Tennessee 38583

August 25th

Listening Session in Huntsville, TN

1:00- 1:45 p.m. EST

Scott County Office Complex

2845 Baker Hwy, Huntsville, Tennessee 37756

August 26th

Listening Session in Manchester, TN

2:00-2:45 p.m. CST

Coffee County Administrative Plaza

1329 McArthur Street, Manchester, Tennessee 37355

August 30th

Listening Session in Loretto, TN

2:00-3:00 p.m. CST

Mustang Country Cafe

213 2nd Avenue South, Loretto, Tennessee 38469

Note: All of the town hall meetings are free and open to the public/press. Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis

A full list of listening sessions is available on Representative DesJarlais Web site in the “Events Schedule” section.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:39Z
https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=64A8E6F0-9656-4BBA-B8C7-0966EDCB8D50,Rep. DesJarlais Statement on Action by S&P,2011-08-07,2011,2011-08,Republican,House,TN,Scott DesJarlais,D000616,desjarlais.house.gov,desjarlais,https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center,scraper,"Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) issued the following statement after Standard and Poor’s announced they had lowered the United States long-term credit rating to AA+.

“The decision by S&P to downgrade our rating is a direct result of Washington's years of addiction to irresponsible government spending.

""Since arriving to Congress, I've been pleased to be part of an ongoing effort by House Republicans to put our nation back on a fiscally sustainable path. Unfortunately, Senate Democrats and President Obama have blocked many of these efforts to enact common sense spending reductions and reforms.

""Clearly, borrowing money is not the path to economic prosperity. Nowhere is this more apparent than in President Obama's failed stimulus package that only succeeded in creating additional job-destroying economic uncertainty by adding another trillion dollars to our debt.

""Additionally, this downgrade shows us that the real threat to our economy is our $14 trillion debt; not the debt-limit.

""Today's downgrade by the S&P makes it clear the philosophy of borrowing and spending is no longer an option. Fortunately, the Republican-led house has changed the conversation from how much can we spend to how much we can cut.

""It is time that Congressional Democrats and President Obama join us in making bold spending decisions and abandon their efforts to maintain the status-quo. I will continue to fight for meaningful spending cuts and reforms that will end deficits and pay down our debt.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:39Z
https://jordan.house.gov/media/press-releases/jordan-statement-passage-debt-limit-deal,Jordan Statement on Passage of the Debt Limit Deal,2011-08-01,2011,2011-08,Republican,House,OH,Jim Jordan,J000289,jordan.house.gov,jordan,https://jordan.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congressman Jim Jordan (R-Urbana) released the following statement regarding his vote against the debt limit deal agreed to by President Obama and Congressional leaders.

""At the beginning of the year, Democrats demanded a blank check increase in the debt limit with absolutely no spending cuts attached. When that didn't work, they demanded an upfront agreement for huge tax increases on America's job creators. Conservatives stood firm, and we succeeded in forcing Washington to begin addressing its spending-driven debt crisis.""

""When looking at the details of this deal, a few concerns in particular rise to the top. The framework opens the door to dangerous national security cuts and raises the possibility that six Democrats and one misguided Republican could put tax increases on the table.""

""The requirement that Congress vote on a Balanced Budget Amendment is a positive step. Unless we send a Balanced Budget Amendment to the states, however, promises to cut spending today can always disappear tomorrow. It happens year after year, and it will happen again unless Americans remain vigilant.""

""Our AAA credit rating remains at risk because President Obama and his fellow tax-and-spend liberals refused to support the Cut, Cap, and Balance plan that could actually solve our debt problem and prevent a credit downgrade. Supporters of the Balanced Budget Amendment have come a long way this year, but there's still a lot of work to be done.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:39Z
https://mcclintock.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/statement-of-opposition-to-s-365-budget-control-act-of-2011,"Statement of Opposition to S. 365 - ""Budget Control Act of 2011""",2011-08-01,2011,2011-08,Republican,House,CA,Tom McClintock,M001177,mcclintock.house.gov,mcclintock,https://mcclintock.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"August 1, 2011. The “Budget Control Act of 2011” increases the debt limit by between $2.1 and $2.4 trillion, the biggest explosion of debt in American history. It allows the government to avoid spending reductions for the next two years while squandering our last best hope of averting a sovereign debt crisis.

I am opposed to this measure for the following reasons:

1. The purported cuts, even if realized, are far below the $4 trillion deficit reduction that credit rating agencies have warned is necessary to preserve the Triple-A credit rating of the United States Government.

2. It blows the lid off the House budget passed in April by more than a half-trillion dollars over ten years.

3. It makes no significant spending reductions for at least the next two years, essentially freezing spending at an unsustainable level. While the debt increase occurs this year, significant spending cuts aren’t to be made for many years and can be ignored or reversed by future acts of Congress.

4. The spending caps are easily circumvented by declaring appropriations to be an emergency, a response to a “major disaster,” or necessary for the “Global War on Terror.”

5. The balanced budget amendment provisions are illusory because the amendment is completely undefined.

THE ACT FLIRTS WITH A CREDIT DOWNGRADE

Let’s not forget the gorilla in the room. America faces an unprecedented fiscal crisis because of an unprecedented spending binge by this administration and the last. Credit rating agencies have openly warned that the nation’s Triple-A credit rating cannot be sustained without a credible plan to reduce the projected 10-year budget deficit by roughly $4 trillion.

This bill averts the threat of downgrade for failure to pay our current bills, but it also gives the most spendthrift administration in American history a credit line to continue spending at unsustainable levels through the next election. And it falls far short of the measures demanded by the rating agencies as necessary to maintain the Triple-A credit of the United States Government.

If the nation’s Triple-A credit rating is downgraded as a result of this failure, it will mean higher interest rates to maintain government debt. Given the enormity of that debt, even a small increase in interest rates can add crushing additional costs to government. Furthermore, interest rate increases would ripple through the economy, causing higher mortgage interest rates, higher credit card rates and a severe additional drag on the economy.

This would occur on top of the inherent economic damage this bill does. The borrowing authorized in this measure is not theoretical: it amounts to more than $7,000 for every man, woman and child in the nation or roughly $28,000 for a family of four. This debt must be repaid through that family’s future taxes just as surely as if it appeared on their credit card statement. In a real sense, this act means that every family in America has acquired the obligation to make the same payments as if they had just bought a new car.

Predicting the future decisions of the credit rating agencies is a fool’s errand. Much of their economic analysis is marred by perception, psychology, political pressure and self-interest. But there is no blinking at the fact that on many occasions in the last month their senior analysts have called for immediate adoption of a credible work-out plan for $4 trillion of genuine deficit reduction in order to maintain a Triple-A rating. We ignore these repeated and explicit warnings at our peril.

SAVINGS ARE GREATLY EXAGGERATED

The Budget Control Act purports to cut federal discretionary spending by $900 billion over the next ten years and set in motion another $1.2 trillion to $1.5 trillion in ten-year spending reductions by year’s end. A recurring theme by proponents is that it guarantees a dollar of cuts for every dollar of new debt.

However, while the debt limit increase occurs this year, the savings occur over the next decade and are heavily back-loaded toward the end of that period. The work of the great economist, J. Wellington Wimpy, can be observed here: “I will gladly give you a dollar of spending cuts ten years from now for a dollar of debt today.”

In reality, this bill will decrease total federal spending by just $4 billion between FY 2011 and FY 2012. Put another way, it cuts actual federal spending by one tenth of one percent – a breathtakingly underwhelming achievement after a 28 percent increase over the last three years. Between FY 2012 and 2013, the bill will increase spending by about $8 billion. (The CBO estimate of a $21 billion net reduction for 2012 is relative to the CBO baseline, not an actual cut relative to 2011).

At best, proponents can claim that between now and September 30, 2014, the “Budget Control Act” freezes spending at the unsustainable FY 2011 level.

In reality, spending will be much higher than these figures suggest, because of a variety of loopholes that allow Congress to spend outside the budget controls for any purpose that a simple majority declares to constitute an “emergency,” or necessary for the “Global War on Terror.”

All future savings that proponents claim are in the form of promises by a government that doesn’t have a stellar track record of keeping such promises.

Indeed, this bill authorizes discretionary spending levels a half trillion dollars more over the next ten years than is permitted under the House Budget Act, also known as the “Ryan Plan” that passed just four months ago.

COMMITTEE UNLIKELY TO ACHIEVE PROMISED SPENDING CUTS

Much of the Budget Control Act of 2011 depends on a bipartisan committee that is charged with the responsibility to cut the deficit, but not necessarily to cut spending, by $1.5 trillion. These are two very different things.

The 12-member committee is to be appointed by Congressional leaders, evenly divided between Democrats and Republicans and between the House and the Senate. Its recommendations on deficit reduction will be decided by majority vote and put to both houses for approval or rejection. Absent adoption of a balanced budget amendment, the second tranche of debt limit increase depends on enactment of its recommendations.

There is little reason to be optimistic of its success.

First, although the committee’s formal goal is $1.5 trillion in deficit reduction, the law only requires it to reduce the deficit by $1.2 trillion in order to avoid sequestration and trigger a $1.2 trillion debt limit increase.

Second, this is not a new concept. Since 1982, there have been 17 “bipartisan” commissions charged with reducing federal spending or borrowing. As evidenced by the current crisis, all 17 have failed. The Budget Control Act of 2011 heavily relies on the 18th such panel actually succeeding.

This particular panel is made up exclusively of a bipartisan group of current members of Congress. It invites the question, “If a bipartisan group of current members of Congress (which we often call, ‘the Congress’) can’t agree to reduce spending to sustainable levels at this critical moment in our history, why would we place far greater confidence in the proposed bipartisan panel of – wait for it – current members of Congress?”

Third, the panel is not responsible for reducing spending, but rather for reducing the deficit. Tax increases may also reduce deficits (while doing significant economic damage). Since the committee is to be evenly divided between Democrats and Republicans, it would take only one Republican to place a massive tax increase on the House and Senate floors. As the deadline approaches and yet another debt crisis looms, the pressure on that one Republican will be enormous, and if history is any indication, irresistible.

It must also be noted that the deficit reduction figures underpinning the Budget Control Act assume restoration of the Clinton-era tax rates. Proponents argue that with these tax increases already baked into the calculations, it will be politically untenable for the special Joint Committee to add even more taxes to reduce the deficit. I disagree. Tax increases score just the same as spending cuts when calculating their effect on the deficit, whatever is the underlying tax rate. In addition, building Clinton-era tax increases into the deficit projections sets up a self-fulfilling prophesy. Although the Act does not itself raise taxes, it assumes massive tax increases, making them more – and not less – likely to occur.

BALANCED BUDGET AMENDMENT UNENFORCEABLE

Adoption of the Joint Committee report is one way to release the second tranche of debt. The other is for Congress to send the states a balanced budget amendment for ratification. I believe the states would ratify a genuine balanced budget amendment in short order and that it would send a strong signal to markets that the United States Government is finally serious about restoring the integrity of its finances. For two reasons, however, I believe the measure falls far short of this objective.

First, the act sets no specifications for what will be in the amendment. A genuine balanced budget amendment would forbid any government borrowing except by extraordinary majorities and for limited purposes. A balanced budget amendment that could be entirely circumvented through loopholes, or that could automatically trigger tax increases to finance Congressional appetites, would certainly meet the definition of a “balanced budget amendment” under this act.

Second, it is entirely possible – indeed, likely -- that the Congress as currently constituted would not reach 2/3 agreement on the precise details of an amendment while facing another debt crisis in December. Nothing in this bill would prevent Congress from simply scrapping all requirements for the second tranche of debt and approving a debt limit increase anyway.

SEQUESTRATION IS AN INSUFFICIENT GUARANTEE

The most promising feature of the Budget Control Act is an automatic sequestration feature that would order cuts in spending if Congress failed to enact the specified $1.2 trillion in deficit reductions to be recommended by the Joint Committee or if Congress failed to send a balanced budget amendment to the states.

As discussed above, these provisions can be circumvented to the point that they are largely meaningless, which makes sequestration much less a guarantee than it first appears. But assuming for a moment that the sequestration were actually invoked, its impact would fall heavily and disproportionately on defense spending while leaving general government spending relatively untouched.

After a maximum two percent cut to Medicare, reductions are split evenly between defense and non-defense spending. The problem becomes two-fold.

First, certain aspects of defense spending, such as Homeland Security, military construction, and veterans benefits are reclassified as “non-defense” for purposes of sequestration, meaning that defense programs could conceivably be subject to both sides of the reductions.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:39Z
https://mcclintock.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/vote-note-s-365-budget-control-act-of-2011-no,"Vote Note:  S. 365 - ""Budget Control Act of 2011:"" NO",2011-08-01,2011,2011-08,Republican,House,CA,Tom McClintock,M001177,mcclintock.house.gov,mcclintock,https://mcclintock.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"August 1, 2011. This act increases the debt limit by between $2.1 and $2.4 trillion, the biggest explosion of debt in American history. It allows the government to avoid spending reductions for the next two years while squandering our last best hope of averting a sovereign debt crisis.

I am opposed to this measure for the following reasons:

1. The purported cuts, even if realized, are far below the $4 trillion deficit reduction that credit rating agencies have warned is necessary to preserve the Triple-A credit rating of the United States Government.

2. It blows the lid off the House budget passed in April by more than a half-trillion dollars over ten years.

3. It makes no significant spending reductions for at least the next two years, essentially freezing spending at an unsustainable level. While the debt increase occurs this year, deficit reductions are to be spread over many years and could be reversed by future acts of Congress.

4. The spending caps are easily circumvented by declaring appropriations to be an emergency, a response to a “major disaster,” or necessary for the “Global War on Terror.”

5. The balanced budget amendment provisions are illusory because the amendment is completely undefined.

Click for Extended Vote Note.

The House of Representatives voted on S. 365 – “Budget Control Act of 2011"" on August 1, 2011. Congressman Tom Mcclintock voted NO.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:39Z
https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=CFBC792F-7712-4ACA-BD55-DC1134C45F0F,Representative DesJarlais Votes Against Budget Control Act of 2011,2011-07-31,2011,2011-07,Republican,House,TN,Scott DesJarlais,D000616,desjarlais.house.gov,desjarlais,https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center,scraper,"Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) issued the following statement after voting against the Budget Control Act of 2011:

“As I’ve said from the beginning, I will not votein favor of a bill to raise the debt-limit that does not contain the necessary spending cuts and reforms that will prevent our nation’s debt from continuing to grow in an unsustainable manner.

“My constituents sent me to Washington, D.C. to tackle our budget crisis and put America back on the track to fiscal sanity. I hear every day from families in Tennessee’s Fourth District that they want the federal government to make tough spending choices, just like they have to do at home.

“While I cannot support this legislation, I think it is important to recognize that we have fundamentally changed the debate in Washington fromhow much we can spend to how much spending we can cut. Together we have forced Senate Democrats and President Obama to finally come to grips with the fact that we cannot borrow our way to prosperity.

“We must build upon this momentum and continue to fight for substantial spending cuts that will put America on a path to a balanced budget and solve our job-killing debt problem.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:35Z
https://mcclintock.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/vote-note-s-627-budget-control-act-of-2011-no,"Vote Note:  S. 627 - ""Budget Control Act of 2011:"" NO",2011-07-30,2011,2011-07,Republican,House,CA,Tom McClintock,M001177,mcclintock.house.gov,mcclintock,https://mcclintock.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"July 29, 2011. This measure immediately increases the debt limit by $900 billion with conditional provision for an additional $1.6 trillion, yet is unlikely to achieve savings sufficient to prevent a downgrade of the nation's credit rating. It increases spending authority by a half trillion dollars above the House Budget Act and postpones any significant reductions in anticipated spending for years into the future. The immediate impact for FY 2012 is to reduce spending $22 billion, or 2/3 of one percent after a 28 percent increase over the last three years. Even this modest reduction is unlikely due to provisions that exempt mandatory spending, emergency spending (determined by majority vote of the Congress) and spending on the ""Global War on Terror."" The provision requiring a balanced budget amendment be sent to the states is undefined and unenforceable. The House has already passed legislation that would place the nation's finances back on the path to solvency and if the Senate is unwilling to concur, it should return the bill to the House with amendments so that conference process can work while there is still time. Click for Extended Vote Note.

S. 627, ""Budget Control Act of 2011,"" was voted on by the House of Representative on July 29, 2011. Congressman McClintock voted NO.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:35Z
https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=6E94FB7F-0156-4380-8167-68D5DD8F79AF,Representative DesJarlais Votes Against Reid Plan,2011-07-29,2011,2011-07,Republican,House,TN,Scott DesJarlais,D000616,desjarlais.house.gov,desjarlais,https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center,scraper,"Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) issued the following statement after voting against Senator Reid’s Debt Limit plan:

“It appears that our Democratic colleagues in the Senate fail to grasp the seriousness of our nation’s job-crushing debt.

“Phony accounting and budgeting gimmicks are not the type of bold leadership that our country desperately needs in this time of fiscal peril.

“This is the worst type of bill: It gives the president a $2.4 trillion blank check to continue his taxpayer-funded spending spree, contains more than $1 trillion in imaginary “savings” and instead of cutting wasteful government spending, it takes away funds that are vital for our men and women serving in uniform. I find it shameful for anyone to suggest that we pay for Washington’s irresponsible fiscal policies by shortchanging our troops.

“Further, according the CBO, this bill only reduces spending by $927 billion. This is nearly $1.5 trillion less than the president’s request for a $2.4 trillion debt limit increase. That is not a solution.

“We have an out of control deficit and it is going to take more than insignificant cuts and imaginary savings in order to put our nation back on the right fiscal track.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:35Z
https://jordan.house.gov/media/press-releases/jordan-statement-passage-budget-control-act,Jordan Statement on Passage of Budget Control Act,2011-07-29,2011,2011-07,Republican,House,OH,Jim Jordan,J000289,jordan.house.gov,jordan,https://jordan.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"July 29, 2011

Congressman Jim Jordan (R-Urbana) released the following statement in regards to his decision to vote against the Budget Control Act of 2011:

""Just a few weeks ago, the Balanced Budget Amendment wasn't even a part of the conversation, despite the overwhelming support it has among the American public. Thanks to the efforts of a dedicated group of conservatives, it is now an integral part of the debate over how to solve America's spending problem.""

""The growing momentum toward requiring Washington to actually balance its budget shows that House Republicans have connected with the American people. Leading Democrats are another story. Senator Reid and President Obama are still trying to fool the American people into thinking we can keep borrowing and spending like there is no tomorrow.""

""I sincerely appreciate Speaker Boehner's tireless work to achieve real spending cuts without tax increases, and I know there will be good conservatives on both sides of this vote.""

""If this bill becomes law, rest assured that Americans will insist that the promise of sending a Balanced Budget Amendment to the states be kept. Unfortunately, Senator Reid plans to strip out the Balanced Budget Amendment requirement or let this bill die altogether. If he does so, let's remember that a bipartisan group of 234 House members already passed a responsible Cut, Cap, and Balance compromise plan to protect our AAA credit rating and solve the country's debt problems.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:35Z
https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=B9E03F5C-6AC0-49BB-917F-F55728223192,Representative DesJarlais Votes Against Budget Control Act,2011-07-28,2011,2011-07,Republican,House,TN,Scott DesJarlais,D000616,desjarlais.house.gov,desjarlais,https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center,scraper,"Washington, D.C. –Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) issued the following statement after voting against the Budget Control Act:

“After careful consideration, I ultimately decided that I could not vote in favor of the Budget Control Act.

“I was elected to Congress to address the substantial fiscal challenges that face our nation. Our federal government has buried us under a mountain of job-crushingdebt that is threatening our future.

“For too long Washington has been kicking this problem down the road. We have now come to the point where we are out of road.

“If we want to create jobs and boost our economy, we have to address our spending and debt now. That means both substantial and immediate cuts.

“I’m terribly disappointed by the actions of President Obama and Senate Democrats. Rather than being partners with us in cutting spending, they have chosen to block any attempt by House Republicans to enact crucial spending reductions that will get our fiscal house in order.

“Clearly, we cannot continue business as usual and it is now time for President Obama and Senate Democrats to come to that realization.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:35Z
https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=05E2CA06-5391-4462-B7D1-961678C491DC,Representative DesJarlais Signs Letter Urging CFTC to Uphold Congressional Intent and Protect End-Users,2011-07-20,2011,2011-07,Republican,House,TN,Scott DesJarlais,D000616,desjarlais.house.gov,desjarlais,https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center,scraper,"Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) signed on to a letter that was sent to Commodity Future Trading Commission (CFTC) Chairman Gary Gensler on July 18th, 2011 regarding his agency’s definition of “swap dealer”.

In crafting Title VII of Dodd-Frank, Congress was explicit in providing clear exemptions for end-users hedging commercial risks. The CFTC’s proposed “swap dealer” definition is overly broad and would classify commercial energy companies, agricultural companies, agricultural and electric cooperatives, community banks and farm credit system institutions as “swap dealers”. This would impose huge costs on their ability to do business and divert capital that could be invested in job creation and jumpstarting the economy.

Further, the rules and regulations that are being drafted to implement Dodd-Frank must follow congressional intent. To that end, it is important that commercial end users continue to have the ability to responsibly hedge their business risk so that they can provide products to their customers at a reasonable cost.

“The ability to manage risk is crucial for the agriculture industry. Placing undue burdens on organizations that pose absolutely no risk of creating a financial crisis will do little more than drive up their cost of doing business. These additional costs will take precious resources away from where they are needed most – creating jobs,” said Representative DesJarlais.

The text of the July 18th letter is attached and can be found below:

Dear Chairman Gensler:

We appreciate the enormous challenge that implementing Dodd-Frank poses to the Commission and the enormous time constraints you are under to implement these important rules and regulations. One specific issue that has repeatedly been brought to our attention is the overly broad interpretation of the “swap dealer” definition proposed by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC). We write today to ask for the reconciliation of several points made throughout the Administration’s proposal of financial regulatory reform to Congress and the broad proposed interpretation of the definition the Commission has released for public comment. As such, we have included a list of questions at the conclusion of this letter that we request you respond to within ten business days.

During a speech to the International Swaps and Derivatives Association on September 16, 2010, you stated that “Initial estimates are that there could be in excess of 200 entities that will seek to register as swap dealers.” We are concerned that the proposed rule would capture commercial energy companies, agricultural companies, agricultural and electric cooperatives, and community banks, and Farm Credit System institutions as swap dealers. We view this as going well beyond Congressional intent.

Congress included two exceptions from the “swap dealer” definition in Dodd-Frank that were intended to exclude these various commercial and smaller entities and narrow the overall scope of those that ultimately fall into this new regulatory category. The proposed rule put forth by the CFTC would impose huge costs on these businesses and divert capital that could otherwise be invested in creating new jobs and helping jumpstart the economy.

The first exception included by Congress from registering as a swap dealer relates to the entity’s transacting in a dealing capacity “as a part of a regular business.” In other words, if an entity’s main or usual business is entering into swaps it is classified as a swap dealer. If an entity’s main or usual business is not entering into swaps, it is exempt from the definition of swap dealer. Congressional intent is clear that this is meant to exempt those who may engage in swap activity that is ancillary to their main business. The proposed rule makes no such distinction, and essentially makes this exception null and void.

The second exception included in Dodd-Frank is the de minimis exception, which gives the CFTC broad discretion in determining which entities are exempt. Our understanding is that very few entities would qualify for the very low threshold set forth in the proposal, which only exempts entities that engage in fewer than twenty swaps in a year.

In our view this definition and the various requirements that go along with the designation as a swap dealer threaten afurther concentration of the swaps markets onto the balance sheets of a handful of the largest financial institutions. We are concerned that this will drive up the costs of risk management and borrowing for commercial firms across this country and stunt economic growth.

We request responses to the following questions in ten business days and appreciate your attention to these issues.

Questions:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:35Z
https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=EECC5693-B2F5-4EB4-817F-11F94375DFBC,"Representative DesJarlais Votes Against Cut, Cap and Balance Act",2011-07-19,2011,2011-07,Republican,House,TN,Scott DesJarlais,D000616,desjarlais.house.gov,desjarlais,https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center,scraper,"Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) issued the following statement after voting against the Cut, Cap and Balance Act:

“I could not support the Cut, Cap and Balance Act in its entirety and therefore voted against it.

“While I do agree that we need to cut current spending, cap future spending at under 20% of our nation’s gross domestic product (GDP) and send a Constitutional Balanced Budget Amendment to the states for ratification, I simply cannot vote in favor of giving this president another 2.4 trillion dollars to continue his reckless government spending spree for the next year and a half.

“Furthermore, the Cut, Cap and Balance legislation does not provide a solid blueprint for where or how this $2.4 trillion increase will be spent. This would allow President Obama to run up two more years of trillion dollar deficits without making tough choices on where to cut spending.

“Our debt is the greatest national security issue currently facing our nation, yet President Obama still has not released a single plan to rein in his excessive spending. Until we can be confident that this president realizes his days of running up record deficits are over, I will not vote to give him the authority to borrow $2.4 trillion more on the backs of our children and grandchildren – enough is enough.

“To be clear, I fully support all three initiatives encompassed in the Cut, Cap and Balance Act and I look forward to voting for these measures in the future as standalone bills – not as a part of a deal that gives the president a $2.4 trillion dollar debt limit increase.

“The debt limit debate provides us with a real opportunity to finally prioritize government spending. We need to sit down and open up the books to look at what government programs we can cut or eliminate.

“I stand firm on my belief that any increase in the debt limit must be accompanied by both significant and immediate spending cuts that will give American job creators confidence that Washington is finally working to get its fiscal house in order.

“Every day, families across Tennessee’s Fourth Congressional District are looking at their budgets and prioritizing where they spend their money. It is about time that government does the same.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:35Z
https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=B1537BAF-ECDF-42A5-BAC3-90BD78AD153E,Representative DesJarlais Co-Hosts Seminar on Doing Business with Federal Agencies,2011-07-17,2011,2011-07,Republican,House,TN,Scott DesJarlais,D000616,desjarlais.house.gov,desjarlais,https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center,scraper,"Washington, D.C. –Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) and the University of Tennessee’s Center for Industrial Services(CIS) Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC), will be hosting a seminar entitled “What’s New in District 4? Doing Business with Federal Agencies”.

The seminar is scheduled for Friday, August 26 from 8:30 am – 4:45 CST at the University of Tennessee Space Institute located at 411 B H Goethert Parkway, Tullahoma, Tennessee 37388.

There will be presenters from Arnold Air Force Base, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers (USACE). Representatives from the Procurement Technical Assistance Center will also be available.

The “Doing Business with Federal Agencies” seminar will cover business opportunities with Arnold AFB, FEMA and the USACE, review the procurement process and explain the preliminary steps involved in doing business with the Federal Government.

“I’m very excited to sponsor this event and I appreciate the University of Tennessee’s Procurement Technical Assistance Center for giving me this opportunity,” said Representative DesJarlais. “I’m confident that this seminar will prove to be of significant value for individuals in Tennessee’s Fourth Congressional District.""

Registration - Contact Debbie Barber, University of Tennessee Procurement Technical Assistance Center at 615-686-3996 or e-mail at debbie.barber@tennessee.edu. There is no charge for the seminar.

Agenda

7:30 – 8:30 Registration (photo opportunity with the Congressman)

8:30 – 8:40 Colors/Pledge of Allegiance

8:40 – 8:50 Welcome/Housekeeping – Joe Flynn

8:50 – 9:00 Brief PTAC Introduction – Joe Flynn

Introduction of Dr. Robert Moore, Executive Director, UTSI

9:00 – 9:15 Welcome and brief UTSI overview – Dr. Robert Moore

Introduction of Mary Jinks – Dr. Robert Moore

9:15 – 9:30 Introduction of UT IPS/CIS – Mike Tallent

Introduction of Congressman – Mike Tallent

9:40 – 10:00 Congressman DesJarlais gives Remarks

10:00 – 10:30 Break and Network with Exhibitors

10:30 – 11:30 Government Contracts and Accounting Procedures/Contract Administration

11:30 – 12:30 Lunch On Your Own

12:30 – 1:15 Arnold Air Force Base Procurement Opportunities

1:15 – 2:00 Subcontracting Opportunities with Arnold AFB Prime Contractor – Jeff Foster

2:00 – 2:30 Break and Network with Exhibitors

2:30 – 3:15 Panel Discussion – GSA, SBA, TEMA

3:15 – 4:00 USACE – Roy Rossignoi, Chief Small Business, Nashville District

4:00 – 4:30 Q & A with the Congressman

4:30 – 4:45 Wrap Up/Final Thoughts/Adjourn – Joe Flynn",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:35Z
https://jordan.house.gov/media/press-releases/jordan-votes-support-bulb-act,Jordan Votes in Support of BULB Act,2011-07-14,2011,2011-07,Republican,House,OH,Jim Jordan,J000289,jordan.house.gov,jordan,https://jordan.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congressman Jim Jordan (R-Urbana) released the following statement after voting for the Better Use of Light Bulbs (BULB) Act, ending the government-ordered ban on traditional incandescent lighting enacted in 2007.

""By nature, Americans do not like being told what to do. It goes against who we are and the freedoms we enjoy in this country. I've understood this through the objections of my constituents to the massive healthcare overhaul passed by a liberal Congress and their outrage over the BULB Act. Government has no place in tiny household decisions such as this and I have hundreds of letters and phone calls from people across the fourth district who agree.""

""Whether it be repealing regulations in the workplace or in your home, I am committed to shrinking the size and influence of government for every American.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:35Z
https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=70E6D2CA-CC49-4C4E-A8D0-2D5B02B3D769,"DesJarlais Calls on Administration to Clarify Misleading Debt Payment Default Statements, Protect Seniors, Military",2011-07-13,2011,2011-07,Republican,House,TN,Scott DesJarlais,D000616,desjarlais.house.gov,desjarlais,https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center,scraper,"Washington, DC, July 14 -

Today, Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) and 56 Members of Congress sent a letter to President Obama urging him to clarify for the American people that even if a debt ceiling agreement is not reached, the United States will not default on its monthly interest payments, or be unable to pay our military and seniors.

“I was disappointed to hear President Obama mislead the public regarding what will happen in the event that an agreement is not reached on the debt limit,” said Rep. DesJarlais. “The American people deserve to hear the truth. To suggest that the United States will be unable to make our debt payments or not pay our military or seniors is completely wrong and unnecessary. Our federal revenue is great enough to cover debt-interest payments, Social Security and Medicare payments and pay for our military personnel. It is unfortunate that that this administration would rather engage in scare tactics to protect its reckless spending habits than make tough spending cut decisions. Irresponsible comments like these will only succeed in further damaging the good faith and credibility of our nation.”

Below is the text of the letter.

Dear Mr. President:

We remain hopeful that an agreement will be reached in the near future regarding spending levels and the debt ceiling. We write to you today, however, to express strong concern about recent comments by Treasury Secretary Geithner. We ask that you clarify for the American people that the Treasury will in fact continue making the monthly interest payments owed on our national debt, even if the debt ceiling is reached.

As you are aware, the revenue projection for FY11 by the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) is $2,230 billion. The total estimated interest payment for FY11 is $213 billion. For FY12, CBO estimates revenues of $2,558 billion and interest payments totaling $257 billion.

Statements by Secretary Geithner have led many Americans to believe that reaching the debt ceiling will cause the United States government to go into default on its interest payments August 2nd if the debt ceiling is reached.

Clearly, that is not the case, as the figures above indicate. Additionally, many Americans believe making Social Security payments (CBO estimates: FY11: $727 billion; FY12: $760 billion), Medicare payments (CBO estimates: FY11: $563 billion; FY12: $560 billion) and ensuring the pay of our military personnel (DOD estimates: FY11 $157 billion; FY12: $160 billion) should be the Administration’s next priorities. Allowing statements to the contrary jeopardizes the good faith and credit of the United States.

We ask that you make an immediate, clear and unequivocal public commitment that your Administration will continue to make all interest payments on time, as well as ensuring the pay of our military personnel, and making Social Security and Medicare payments in full.

We look forward to your reply.

Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:35Z
https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=C5913715-B273-4E29-BBB6-C0B97D000AC9,DesJarlais Cosponsors Legislation to Help Storm Victims,2011-07-07,2011,2011-07,Republican,House,TN,Scott DesJarlais,D000616,desjarlais.house.gov,desjarlais,https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center,scraper,"In order to help victims of the tornadoes, severe storms and flooding that devastated Tennessee and other Southeaster states this spring, Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) cosponsored legislation that would provide temporary tax provisions and relief for families, businesses and local governments as they recover from these tragic storms.

“I saw first-hand the terrible damage that these storms caused to communities throughout Tennessee and spoke directly with the families who had to begin the long, difficult process of rebuilding their lives,” said Representative DesJarlais. “This legislation will provide much needed assistance through tax relief to the victims of these tragedies as they seek to cope with the aftermath. While nothing can replace all that was lost, it is my hope that the Southeastern Disaster Tax Relief Act will help to ease some of the pain experienced by our friends and neighbors.”

Summary of Southeastern Disaster Tax Relief Act:

This legislation consists of temporary tax provisions that were included in previous natural disaster responses that enjoyed overwhelming bipartisan support including the Heartland Disaster Tax Relief Act, Gulf Opportunity Zone Act, Katrina Emergency Tax Relief Act, and the tax relief provided to southern Kansas due to flooding in 2008. The bill is fully offset by rescinding unobligated federal spending, and it will not increase the federal debt.

Under this bill, the Southeastern disaster area would be established in the Internal Revenue Code to designate regions in the South that were affected by the recent tornadoes, severe storms or flooding. In order for counties to be eligible for all of the benefits in the bill, they must be Presidentially-declared major disaster areas and determined by the President to warrant individual assistance for damage between April 13, 2011, and June 7, 2011. Additionally, a limited number of benefits will be provided for areas designated eligible for public assistance by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), including expensing for demolition and clean-up costs, education tax benefits, qualified retirement withdrawals, suspension of limitations on charitable contributions and casualty losses, special exemption for housing displaced individuals, look-back rule for earned income tax credit and child tax credit, exclusion of cancellation of indebtedness income, and the extension of replacement period for non-recognition of gains.

Original cosponsors of the legislation are: Spencer Bachus (AL-6), Jo Bonner (AL-1), Mo Brooks (AL-5), Russ Carnahan (MO-3), William Lacy Clay (MO-1), Tom Cole (OK-4), Rick Crawford (AZ-1), Scott DesJarlais (TN-4), John Duncan (TN-2), Steven Fincher (TN-8), Tim Griffin (AR-2), Brett Guthrie (KY-2), Gregg Harper (MS-3), Vicki Hartzler(MO-4), Walter Jones (NC-3), Billy Long (MO-7), Frank Lucas (OK-3), Alan Nunnelee (MS-1), Steven Palazzo (MS-4), Martha Roby (AL-2), Phil Roe (TN-1), Mike Rogers (AL-3), Mike Ross (AR-4), Austin Scott (GA-8), Terri Sewell (AL-7), Lynn Westmoreland (GA-4), Steve Womack (AR-3).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:35Z
https://mcclintock.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/editorial-reply-sacramento-bee-hr-1837,Editorial Reply Sacramento Bee - H.R. 1837,2011-06-24,2011,2011-06,Republican,House,CA,Tom McClintock,M001177,mcclintock.house.gov,mcclintock,https://mcclintock.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"The Bee’s latest editorial on water accuses me of “promoting” a “water grab.” The Bee was well aware that as Chairman of the Sub-Committee on Water and Power, I intervened to stop the bill in question (H.R. 1837) and announced it would not proceed until and unless it is amended to fully protect Northern California water rights. Yet the editorial made the accusation anyway while questioning my motives and integrity.

Last year, to meet radical environmental demands, 200 billion gallons of water contracted to the Central Valley were instead dumped into the Pacific Ocean. That act destroyed 250,000 acres of farmland and cost tens of thousands of jobs. Our sub-committee is grappling with a solution to prevent such lunacy in the future while fully protecting Northern California water rights and critical habitat. We’re not there yet.

I welcome the Bee’s constructive counsel, but all it has offered to date is distortions and invective.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:30Z
https://mcclintock.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/south-nevada-county-town-hall-meeting,South Nevada County Town Hall Meeting,2011-06-23,2011,2011-06,Republican,House,CA,Tom McClintock,M001177,mcclintock.house.gov,mcclintock,https://mcclintock.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Congressman McClintock will conduct a town hall meeting in Grass Valley on Thursday, June 30th at 6:00 PM. The meeting will be held at Higgins Lions Community Center, 22490 East Hacienda Drive, Grass Valley.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:30Z
https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=8C83A0D4-240F-44A0-8C38-29FAAD61C904,DesJarlais Statement to Senator Reid: Send H.R. 872 to Senate Floor for a Vote,2011-06-21,2011,2011-06,Republican,House,TN,Scott DesJarlais,D000616,desjarlais.house.gov,desjarlais,https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center,scraper,"Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) issued the following statement to Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) after the U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry approved H.R. 872, the Reducing Regulatory Burdens Act of 2011.

“I was pleased that the Senate Agriculture Committee advanced H.R. 872, The Reducing Regulatory Burdens Act. During these difficult economic times, it is imperative that government regulations do not impede economic growth. I, along with many of my colleagues in the House Agriculture Committee, urge Majority Leader Reid to swiftly bring this bipartisan bill to the Senate floor for a vote. This legislation is a critical step to creating an environment where American job creators can prosper,"" said Representative DesJarlais.

On March 31, the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 872 in a bipartisan vote, 292-130. The legislation eliminates a costly and duplicative permitting requirement for the application of pesticides. This misguided court order will be implemented on October 31. Without a legislative fix, the requirement would impose an economic burden to agricultural producers, foresters, public health agencies, the federal government, state agencies, and every day citizens.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:30Z
https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=DEE20D2F-F946-4355-855F-714AAF3167B7,"DesJarlais, Fleischmann Introduce First Bill: Legislation Stops Unfunded Road Sign Mandate and Saves Tennessee $50 Million",2011-06-20,2011,2011-06,Republican,House,TN,Scott DesJarlais,D000616,desjarlais.house.gov,desjarlais,https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center,scraper,"Representative Scott DesJarlais (R-TN-04) and Representative Chuck Fleischmann (R-TN-03) have introduced a bill to rollback an unfunded mandate on local Tennessee counties. New standards put forth by the Federal Highway Administration would require Tennessee counties to update and replace road signs by 2015 and 2018. The Tennessee County Highway Officials Association estimates this accelerated schedule could cost local governments $50 million.

Congressman Fleischmann and Congressman DesJarlais have introduced legislation in the House, to match legislation introduced by Senators Alexander and Corker, to waive the new timeline, and allow local governments to meet the new standards when they replace signs at the end of their natural life cycle.

“This is certainly a prime example of an untimely, unfunded federal mandate. Local governments have already had to tighten their belts and carefully manage every dollar in their budget. Unlike the federal government, most local governments have to balance their budget and can’t engage in spending beyond their means. During these difficult economic times, I think it’s simply unreasonable for the federal government to mandate a new standard to force the replacement of road signs that are still safe and usable. This bill is quite simple: it allows localities to replace signs at the end of their life cycle instead of forcing an unnecessary change that our local highway authorities neither need nor can afford at the present time,” DesJarlais said.

“The federal government is once again placing an undue burden on states when they can least afford it. While this Administration, and their departments, might have the mindset of ‘tax, borrow, spend’, local governments cannot do the same. At a time when they are working to be fiscally responsible, and balance their budgets, the federal government is telling them to spend money they don’t have. I am proud to join with Senators Alexander and Corker to put an end to this unfunded mandate. Washington politicians should take a clue from local and state officials, and get to work on balancing their budget – instead of telling states how to spend their money,” Fleischmann said.

“It is financially impossible for Tennessee county governments to comply with this unfunded FHWA mandate. Tennessee county government's inability to comply with the FHWA sign mandates indirectly exposes all units of local governments to potential litigation. One of the biggest concerns for county governments regarding program mandates is the threat of lawsuits for non-compliance,” the Tennessee County Highway Officials Association said.

This is the first bill introduced by both Congressman Fleischmann and Congressman DesJarlais.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:30Z
https://jordan.house.gov/media/press-releases/jordan-passage-balanced-budget-amendment,Jordan on Passage of Balanced Budget Amendment,2011-06-15,2011,2011-06,Republican,House,OH,Jim Jordan,J000289,jordan.house.gov,jordan,https://jordan.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"June 15, 2011

Congressman Jim Jordan (R-Urbana) issued the following statement following today's 20-12 passage by the House Judiciary Committee of H.J. Res 1 – proposing a balanced budget amendment to the Constitution of the United States.

""With the passage of a strong balanced budget amendment by the House Judiciary Committee, we are now one step closer to putting our country's spending on a fiscally sustainable path.

Today's action demonstrates the commitment of House conservatives to changing the tax-and-spend culture of Congress. The American people have spoken loud and clear that Congress should balance the federal budget, just like families and business owners have to do every day.

Even with a debt crisis looming, liberals in Congress and in the White House still want to spend like there is no tomorrow. We need bold action to get the country back on track. This balanced budget amendment, which is part of our 'Cut, Cap and Balance' plan, is exactly the medicine we need, and I call on my colleagues in the House and Senate to pass it and send it to the states.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:12:30Z