url,title,date,year,month,party,chamber,state,member_name,bioguide_id,domain,scraper,source,date_source,text,has_text,collected_at,updated_at
http://gosar.house.gov/press-release/rep-gosar-circulates-legislation-strip-medal-freedom-bill-cosby,Rep. Gosar Circulates Legislation to Strip Medal of Freedom from Bill Cosby,2015-12-31,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,AZ,Paul Gosar,G000565,gosar.house.gov,,,legacy,"PRESCOTT, A.Z. - Today, U.S. Congressman Paul A. Gosar, D.D.S. (AZ-04) released the following statement after circulating a Dear Colleague letter inviting his fellow members of Congress to cosponsor legislation that he will introduce next week affirming a mechanism for the president to strip Bill Cosby of the Presidential Medal of Freedom and that will impose criminal penalties for anyone who wears or publicly displays a Presidential Medal of Freedom that has been revoked:

				The Presidential Medal of Freedom is not something to be taken lightly and such an honor must come with responsibility and accountability. No doubt, Bill Cosby has made cultural contributions to public life in the United States as both an entertainer and as an advocate for social causes. However, the shocking admissions of Cosby during a 2005 deposition, the harrowing accounts of more than 50 women of Cosbys sexual assault and drugging as well as Cosbys arrest for three felony counts of sexual assault make him unfit to retain our nations highest civilian honor.

				When approached, President Obama stated there is no mechanism to revoke the Presidential Medal of Freedom from Cosby, making it is necessary to establish a formal removal process in order to protect the integrity of this award. For this reason, I will introduce legislation that ensures there is a mechanism in place to strip Cosby, or anyone else found dishonorarable, of the Medal of Freedom.

				Furthermore, it is true that there is a presumption of innocence in the American legal system, and rightly so. While our criminal justice system will ultimately determine whether Cosby serves jail time for the 2004 incident, Montgomery County prosecutors made clear in their Affidavit of Probable Cause yesterday that Bill Cosby has likely been drugging women for years. Cosbys own admissions to drugging women for sex place him outside the bounds of whom we should admire in our society. To continue honoring Bill Cosby with this prestigious accolade would be an affront to women nationwide, particularly those who were victims of his horrific acts. Background:

				The Gosar dear colleague being circulated for cosponsorship can be found HERE.

				The full text of the draft Gosar legislation can be found HERE.

				Congressman Gosar has been working closely with Promoting Awareness | Victim Empowerment(PAVE), aDC-based nonprofit organization that works to prevent sexual assault and heal survivors, on this effort. PAVEs press release from 12/17/15 can be found HERE.  

					   

					Congressman Gosar has been working on this legislation for months following release of the 2005 deposition in July 2015. Last July, when questioned about revoking Cosbys medal, President Obama stated, There's no precedent for revoking a medalWe don't have that mechanism. Since that time Rep. Gosar has been working closely with PAVE and others to craft legislation that provides a mechanism. Congressman Gosars bill affirms a mechanism for the president to strip Bill Cosby of the Presidential Medal of Freedom and will impose criminal penalties for anyone who wears or publicly displays a Presidential Medal of Freedom that has been revoked.

				The Presidential Medal of Freedom was established in 1963. This prestigious award is bestowed on recipients forespecially meritorious contributions to the security or national interests of the United States, to world peace, or to cultural or other significant public or private endeavors. William Henry Bill Cosby, Jr. received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2002. In recent months, more than 50 women have come forward and conveyed disturbing accounts of drugging and sexual assault by Cosby. The statute of limitations has expired for many of these incidents, and as a result, many of these women will never get their day in court. On December 30, 2015, Montgomery County Prosecutors charged Cosby with three counts of felony aggravated indecent assault for allegedly drugging and sexually assaulting a young woman without her consent in a 2004 incident. The 20 Page Affidavit of Probable Cause and three page Criminal Complaint can be found HERE. In the 20 page Affidavit of Probable Cause, prosecutors found that the evidence here demonstrates that the victims substantially impaired condition prevented her ability to consent, or even defend herself from Cosbys sexual assault. Prosecutors also noted that over the years Cosby obtained seven separate prescriptions for Quaaludes that he did not personally ingest, nor ever intended to personally ingest.

				According to the New York Daily News, court documents obtained by the Associated Press on Monday, July 7, 2015, revealed that Cosby admitted under oath that he bought Quaaludes to dope the women he wanted to gropeand slipped the sedative to at least one lady and other people. During a deposition on September 29, 2005, a lawyer, Dolores Troiani, asked Cosby, When you got the Quaaludes, was it in your mind that you were going to use these Quaaludes for young women that you wanted to have sex with? and Cosby answered Yes. Cosbys own admissions to drugging women in order to satisfy his sexual desires place him outside the bounds of whom we should admire in our society.

				As one of my constituents stated eloquently on my Facebook page, Civilian honors such as this come with no legal protections or guarantees...Honors are optional, and not anyone's legal right to have and keepThe bar should be extraordinarily high for the Medal of Freedom, and to keep Cosby as a recipient greatly diminishes the very worth of that honor.

				###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://luetkemeyer.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398665,Looking Ahead to 2016,2015-12-31,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,MO,Blaine Luetkemeyer,L000569,luetkemeyer.house.gov,,,legacy,"With 2015 officially in the books, we can now look ahead to 2016 and build on what the House was able to accomplish last year. 
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      With 2015 officially in the books, we can now look ahead to 2016 and build on what the House was able to accomplish last year. 
I am ready to get the ball rolling early. In the coming weeks, the House is expected to vote on my legislation, the Providing Accountability through Transparency Act. This legislation would require each government agency, in providing notice of a rule making, to include a link to a 100-word plain language summary of the proposed rule. Government agencies create long-winded rules each and every day and this bill requires a short summary and ensures the agency will provide a web link at regulations.gov to make the proposed rule accessible to all Americans. Of course, Ill keep fighting against the onerous new rules and regulations being issued by the Obama Administration, but it is very important that the American people have the opportunity to read, in plain language, what is being proposed.
Also this year, I will continue oversight of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, maintain a leading role in the debate over Missouri River management, and support legislation that helps our nations veterans.
In addition, it is my hope the House will start working on tax reform in 2016. Families and small businesses deserve a tax code that is simple and fair and it is long overdue for the House to start the process of overhauling the more than four million words that are in todays tax code.
In 2015, the House passed major bills addressing education, transportation, tax relief, and lifting the ban on crude oil. The House will continue to build on its plan to keep our nation secure and a plan to create jobs, end economic uncertainty, and make America more competitive.
As we enter 2016, please remember that my offices located in Jefferson City, Wentzville, Washington, Mo., and Washington, D.C. are here to listen to your concerns and suggestions. I serve as your liaison to the federal government, but I cannot do this job alone. Hearing your ideas, so that I can put them into action, is critical to me. By working together, we can build upon our common goal to ensure 2016 is a year of prosperity and progress for all hard-working Americans.
I remain committed to battling the regulations that come down from the Administration and I will continue to fight for the priorities of Americans. Now it is time to get back to work and continue to build off of the last year.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://reichert.house.gov/press-release/rep-reichert-named-one-most-effective-members-congress,Rep. Reichert Named One of the Most Effective Members of Congress,2015-12-31,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,WA,Dave Reichert,R000578,reichert.house.gov,,,legacy,"Recently, the University of Virginias and Vanderbilt Universitys Legislative Effectiveness Project ranked U.S. Congressman Dave Reichert as one of the most effective Members of Congress between 2013 and 2014. Specifically, Rep. Reichert earned the second-highest score among Washington State lawmakers after Rep. Doc Hastings who is now retired, ranking 27th among Republicans, and 28th among all 435 House members.
This past year, Rep. Reichert has built upon his achievements from previous congressional terms and has continued to focus his efforts on growing jobs in Washington, enabling Americans to keep more of their hard earned dollars, and keeping our communities safe.
Here are some of the highlights from 2015:
 Named Chairman of the Trade Subcommittee: Rep. Reichert was given the opportunity to lead the Ways and Means Committee, Subcommittee on Trade and champion some of the issues that have the greatest impact on Washingtonians.
Throughout the year, Rep. Reichert also continued to supporttrade in Washington by fighting for the reauthorization of the Ex-Im Bank and serving as the lead advocate in Congress to resolve the West Coast Ports dispute. He is also a member of the President's Export Council.
 Served as Chairman of the Tax Subcommittee: Prior to being named as Chairman of the Trade Subcommittee, Rep. Reichert chaired the Subcommittee on Tax Policy, where he focused on reforming the tax code to make it work better for American workers, families and businesses. Now as the Chairman Emeritus and second in seniority, he will continue reforming the outdated tax code.
 Named Conferee to Customs and Highway Conference Negotiations: With a bipartisan, bicameral group of colleagues, Rep. Reichert worked to negotiate two important bills for the American people. This years Highway Bill is the first long term highway bill in a decade, giving states the certainty they need to invest in long-term infrastructure projects.The Highway Bill also included Rep. Reicherts language advising states to strengthen laws regarding secured loads to increase public safety. As a Customs Bill conferee, he worked with his colleagues to negotiate a bill that will strengthen enforcement of our trade laws and increase opportunities for our businesses here at home.
 Launched the Law Enforcement Task Force: Earlier this year, Rep. Reichert launched a task force aimed at opening conversations between members of law enforcement and the communities they serve throughout the country. This task force will explore and identify opportunities for communities and law enforcement to build upon mutual respect for one another and increase civility in our nation.
 Launched the Congressional Freight Caucus: This past October, Rep. Reichert launched the bipartisan Congressional Freight Caucus in an effort to raise awareness about the need to expand the nations freight infrastructure and improve the movement of goods. This issue is especially important to Washington State, where our freight systems support 1.5 million jobs and produce $129 billion in annual revenue.
Sponsored Legislation Passed into Law:
 H.R. 1269 (P.L. 114-12): The Rafael Ramos and Wenjian Liu National Blue Alert Act was signed into law on May 19th and creates a nationwide alert system to apprehend violent criminals who have seriously injured, killed, or made an imminent or credible threat to cause serious harm to a law enforcement officer.
 H.R. 2146 (P.L. 114-26): The Defending Public Safety Employees Retirement Act ensures fairness for federal public safety officials by allowing them to access retirement savings at the age of 50 after 20 years of service without the application of the 10% penalty. This is the same treatment state and local public safety officers receive.
 H.R. 1892 (P.L. 114-27): The Trade Adjustment Assistance Reauthorization Act provides temporary assistance, including training, to American workers who have been impacted by international trade.
The following bills Rep. Reichert sponsored were enacted as part of the FY2016 Consolidated Appropriations Act (P.L. 114-113), which was recently signed into law on December 18th.
 H.R. 629, The Permanent S Corporation Built-in Gain Recognition Period Act of 2015: This bill makes permanent an important provision that supports our small businesses in doing what they do best  creating jobs and strengthening our local economies. Specifically, it allows S Corporations greater access to their own capital, so they can grow, reinvest, and hire by reducing the time they must hold certain assets after changing to a S Corporation from a C Corporation.
 H.R. 630, Permanent S Corporation Charitable Contribution Act of 2015: This bill makes permanent a rule ensuring consistent treatment of charitable contributions for S Corporation shareholders, thereby providing certainty and encouraging charitable giving.
 H.R. 869: This legislation ensures that public employees in Washington State including school teachers, utility district workers, and many others, are able to enjoy the fruits of their labor and pass on medical benefits earned over years of service to their families and loved ones.
 H.R. 2940, Educator Tax Relief Act: This bill makes permanent the educator tax deduction, which allows teachers to deduct the cost of classroom supplies and professional development expenses up to $250. Just like companies can deduct certain business expenses, teachers should be able to deduct the amount of their own hard-earned dollars they put into making classrooms the best learning environment they can for our kids and grandkids.
 H.Amdt.271, to increase funding for the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program by $100 million: This amendment, which passed the House on June 2nd and was included in the Consolidated Appropriations Act , provides funding to help local police departments meet their hiring needs to ensure our communities have enough cops on the street to keep us safe.

###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://scalise.house.gov/press-release/icymi-scalise-barton-op-ed-dallas-morning-news-praises-benefits-lifting-ban,ICYMI: Scalise-Barton Op-Ed In Dallas Morning News Praises Benefits Of Lifting The Ban,2015-12-31,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,LA,Steve Scalise,S001176,scalise.house.gov,,,legacy,"METAIRIE, LA. -Congressman Joe Barton (R-TX) and Congressman Steve Scalise (R-La.) penned a joint opinion editorial published in The Dallas Morning News titled Develop American resources, create American jobs.As of December 18, 2015, the nearly forty-year-old ban on crude oil exports has been lifted, thanks in part to Scalises leadership in the House. The op-ed touts the job-creating and economy-growing benefits for the state of Louisiana and our region.
Excerpts from the op-ed are below:
Let us develop the resources of our land
These words, the beginning of a quotation of Daniel Webster, are emblazoned upon a plaque hung prominently in the House of Representatives chamber. They certainly hold true today as Republicans work to grow our economy, create good-paying jobs, make life more affordable for hardworking families and bolster Americas national security.

Throughout the Gulf Coast region, our oil and gas industry remains the heartbeat of our economy  an amazing success story that creates good-paying jobs by providing homegrown energy to America and our allies.
In Texas and Louisiana alone, the oil and gas industry supports well over 2 million jobs directly and indirectly,from oil patch workers to engineers, service industry workers to truck drivers, computer programmers and more. The average salary of an oil and gas industry worker in the Gulf Coast region is about $80,000 a year, and the industry contributes tens of billions of dollars to our regional economy.With results like these, every state blessed with valuable energy resources should have the same opportunity to replicate our success.

But for years, President Barack Obama has been trying to reverse these opportunities by imposing radical regulations that are rooted in a failed cap-and-trade scheme. With these and other wrong-headed policies, the president and his administration are waging a notorious War on Coal that is hurting American workers and their families.
Just this month, the president met with the leaders of other nations in Paris to pursue his global warming agenda that will make America less competitive, kill jobs and raise costs for hardworking families. Just imagine the foolish notion that an administration that could not even properly build a website to sell health insurance policies can somehow control the earths temperature.
Meanwhile, America has lost 80,000 jobs asoil producers have been forced to scale back their rigs by 60 percent, yet the president and his radical environmentalist supporters have fought tooth and nail to keep America the only nation in the world with a self-imposed ban on exporting our own crude oil.
Instead of helping Americans compete on the global stage and benefit from our incredible energy resources, the president and his allies are doing the exact opposite, blocking enormous opportunities and trying to force their own radical agenda on the rest of us. Youll see that huge cost in everything from higher food and electricity prices, to thousands more lost jobs.
Thats just wrong.House Republicans are committed to fighting for the millions of Americans who will directly benefit from developing our countrys plentiful energy resources. And in recent weeks, we have passed several pieces of legislation to do just that.
We have stood against the presidents illegal so-called Clean Power Plan and New Source Performance Standard that will drive up the cost of electricity. We voted to approve the Keystone XL Pipeline. We have voted to upgrade our aging energy infrastructure, and now we have finally passed legislation to end the outdated ban on crude oil exports, part of a crucial bill which the president just signed into law.
Lifting the ban will create an estimated 1 million American jobs throughout the nation and add $170 billion annually to our GDP. In fact, it is estimated that for every job created in the oil and gas sector, six will be created in the broader economy, while gas prices here at home could drop as much as 13 cents per gallon, helping families save more at the pump. This is a historic victory for America and for our region.
Were proud to have led the charge in the House to help Americans capitalize on our energy potential so we can create good jobs, our economy can continue to grow and more families can have an opportunity to achieve the American Dream.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://stewart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-stewart-and-house-intelligence-committee-launch-investigation-into,Rep. Stewart and House Intelligence Committee Launch Investigation into Spying Allegations,2015-12-31,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,UT,Chris Stewart,S001192,stewart.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. -- As a member of the House Intelligence Committee, Rep. Chris Stewart (R-Utah) joined his committee colleagues in opening an investigation into the Obama Administration's practice of spying on members of Congress and some friendly foreign leaders.
The Wall Street Journal has reported that the United States collected information on private exchanges between members of Congress and the Israeli Prime Minister during the Iran nuclear deal negotiations.
This comes two years after President Obama announced he would no longer eavesdrop on friendly heads of state. Additionally, the law states that any intercepted communication between a U.S. government official and a foreign target must be destroyed unless the NSA Director grants a waiver. At this time, Congress is aware of no such waiver.
""If the Wall Street Journal report is correct, we've got a real problem, Stewart said. ""The National Security Agency already has a strained relationship with the American people, and breaking our privacy laws only weakens that relationship.Next week, the House Intelligence Committee is expected to meet with members of the Intelligence Community to get some answers to these very serious allegations.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://desantis.house.gov/press-releases?ID=8B7562DD-8121-46C9-908D-FCA0694BC793,"DeSantis Seeks Answers on Israel, Congressional Spying",2015-12-31,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,FL,Ron DeSantis,D000621,desantis.house.gov,,,legacy,"St. Augustine, FL – Rep. Ron DeSantis (FL-06), Chairman of the Subcommittee on National Security, has signed onto a letter to Admiral Michael S. Rogers, Director of the National Security Agency (NSA), concerning recent allegations that the NSA intercepted and provided to the Executive Branch communications between member of Congress and the Israeli government. The letter can be read here. DeSantis issued the following statement:

“While the Obama Administration was negotiating a nuclear deal with the world–s leading state sponsor of terrorism, they were simultaneously spying on and trying to undermine our closest ally in the region, Israel. That this spying may very well have swept up the communications of members of Congress, which represents an affront to the separation of powers. Congress needs to investigate how the Obama administration used this information and determine whether it shared information gleaned from this spying with Iran.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://gosar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2427,Rep. Gosar Circulates Legislation to Strip Medal of Freedom from Bill Cosby,2015-12-31,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,AZ,Paul Gosar,G000565,gosar.house.gov,,,legacy,"PRESCOTT, A.Z. - Today, U.S. Congressman Paul A. Gosar, D.D.S. (AZ-04) released the following statement after circulating a Dear Colleague letter inviting his fellow members of Congress to cosponsor legislation that he will introduce next week affirming a mechanism for the president to strip Bill Cosby of the Presidential Medal of Freedom and that will impose criminal penalties for anyone who wears or publicly displays a Presidential Medal of Freedom that has been revoked:

				The Presidential Medal of Freedom is not something to be taken lightly and such an honor must come with responsibility and accountability. No doubt, Bill Cosby has made cultural contributions to public life in the United States as both an entertainer and as an advocate for social causes. However, the shocking admissions of Cosby during a 2005 deposition, the harrowing accounts of more than 50 women of Cosby's sexual assault and drugging as well as Cosby's arrest for three felony counts of sexual assault make him unfit to retain our nation's highest civilian honor.

				When approached, President Obama stated there is no mechanism to revoke the Presidential Medal of Freedom from Cosby, making it is necessary to establish a formal removal process in order to protect the integrity of this award. For this reason, I will introduce legislation that ensures there is a mechanism in place to strip Cosby, or anyone else found dishonorarable, of the Medal of Freedom.

				Furthermore, it is true that there is a presumption of innocence in the American legal system, and rightly so. While our criminal justice system will ultimately determine whether Cosby serves jail time for the 2004 incident, Montgomery County prosecutors made clear in their Affidavit of Probable Cause yesterday that Bill Cosby has likely been drugging women for years. Cosby's own admissions to drugging women for sex place him outside the bounds of whom we should admire in our society. To continue honoring Bill Cosby with this prestigious accolade would be an affront to women nationwide, particularly those who were victims of his horrific acts. Background:

				The Gosar dear colleague being circulated for cosponsorship can be found HERE.

				The full text of the draft Gosar legislation can be found HERE.

				Congressman Gosar has been working closely with Promoting Awareness | Victim Empowerment(PAVE), aDC-based nonprofit organization that works to prevent sexual assault and heal survivors, on this effort. PAVE's press release from 12/17/15 can be found HERE.  

					   

					Congressman Gosar has been working on this legislation for months following release of the 2005 deposition in July 2015. Last July, when questioned about revoking Cosby's medal, President Obama stated, There's no precedent for revoking a medalWe don't have that mechanism. Since that time Rep. Gosar has been working closely with PAVE and others to craft legislation that provides a mechanism. Congressman Gosar's bill affirms a mechanism for the president to strip Bill Cosby of the Presidential Medal of Freedom and will impose criminal penalties for anyone who wears or publicly displays a Presidential Medal of Freedom that has been revoked.

				The Presidential Medal of Freedom was established in 1963. This prestigious award is bestowed on recipients forespecially meritorious contributions to the security or national interests of the United States, to world peace, or to cultural or other significant public or private endeavors. William Henry Bill Cosby, Jr. received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2002. In recent months, more than 50 women have come forward and conveyed disturbing accounts of drugging and sexual assault by Cosby. The statute of limitations has expired for many of these incidents, and as a result, many of these women will never get their day in court. On December 30, 2015, Montgomery County Prosecutors charged Cosby with three counts of felony aggravated indecent assault for allegedly drugging and sexually assaulting a young woman without her consent in a 2004 incident. The 20 Page Affidavit of Probable Cause and three page Criminal Complaint can be found HERE. In the 20 page Affidavit of Probable Cause, prosecutors found that the evidence here demonstrates that the victim's substantially impaired condition prevented her ability to consent, or even defend herself from Cosby's sexual assault. Prosecutors also noted that over the years Cosby obtained seven separate prescriptions for Quaaludes that he did not personally ingest, nor ever intended to personally ingest.

				According to the New York Daily News, court documents obtained by the Associated Press on Monday, July 7, 2015, revealed that Cosby admitted under oath that he bought Quaaludes to dope the women he wanted to gropeand slipped the sedative to at least one lady and other people'. During a deposition on September 29, 2005, a lawyer, Dolores Troiani, asked Cosby, When you got the Quaaludes, was it in your mind that you were going to use these Quaaludes for young women that you wanted to have sex with? and Cosby answered Yes. Cosby's own admissions to drugging women in order to satisfy his sexual desires place him outside the bounds of whom we should admire in our society.

				As one of my constituents stated eloquently on my Facebook page, Civilian honors such as this come with no legal protections or guarantees...Honors are optional, and not anyone's legal right to have and keepThe bar should be extraordinarily high for the Medal of Freedom, and to keep Cosby as a recipient greatly diminishes the very worth of that honor.

				###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/commentary/review-2015-senate-gets-work,Review of 2015: Senate Gets to Work,2015-12-31,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,IA,Charles Grassley,G000386,www.grassley.senate.gov,,,legacy,"By U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley   At years end, most Americans take stock of the previous 12 months and consider if they met their goals for the year. A review of ones bank account, pay stub or job status and even a peek at the bathroom scale give folks a pretty good idea if they stayed true to their New Years resolutions. When the 114th Congress gaveled to order this past January, it marked the first time since 2006 that Republicans controlled both the House and Senate. The new leadership vowed to live up to the promises and expectations of the 2014 midterm elections and restore order to the peoples branch. The U.S. Senate succeeded in breathing life back into the worlds greatest deliberative body. In fact, the Senate held 163 roll call votes on floor amendments, compared to only 18 the previous year. Lawmakers performed oversight, drafted legislation, considered nominations and kept the federal government open for business. Restoring regular order ought to be considered the rule, not the exception as far as Im concerned. Considering that public opinion polls rank Congress among the least popular institutions in society, lawmakers are obligated to work towards restoring credibility and fundamental trust in our system of self-government. An appraisal of the first 12 months of the year reflects promises made and promises kept. Congress prioritized results that matter and advanced public policies that have substantive consequence on the daily lives of American families. Three key items that had evaded resolution for years in Washington were advanced by the Republican-led Congress and signed into law this year, including:    approval of a five-year reauthorization of the federal transportation funding law that eluded bipartisan agreement for years. If theres one item that gets people animated at town meetings, its maintaining reliable roads and bridges. Rural Americans, in particular, typically commute longer distances in their own vehicles and need dependable roads to send and receive goods in the marketplace. The $305 billion agreement gives local and state governments the certainty they need to prioritize and move ahead with local infrastructure projects.    overhaul of the federal K-12 education law to restore decision-making to state and local educators, parents and teachers. Passage of the Every Student Succeeds Act replaces the top-down interventions that the federal Department of Education prescribed under the previous law known as No Child Left Behind. When the federal bureaucracy in Washington meddles less, neighborhood schools can do more good by identifying and implementing innovative solutions that meet the needs of their students and local communities.    passage of a long-term fix to a flawed Medicare funding formula that for 17 years caused dire uncertainty for patients and doctors. The Medicare Access and Chip Reauthorization Act improves the reimbursement formula for providers serving Medicare patients. Considering that Medicare serves 531,209 Iowans and spends $4.3 billion per year in the state, fixing problems in the way Medicare reimburses and incentivizes health care providers is a big deal for Iowa. Looking ahead to 2016, the 114th Congress has even more ground to cover. As chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, I will continue to lead efforts for a balanced budget amendment, civil asset forfeiture reform and press for final passage of my bipartisan sentencing reform and corrections bill and my bill to make improvements to the juvenile justice system. Other important work will require diligent oversight of the presidents my-way-or-the-highway mindset on immigration policy and prioritizing measures to end sanctuary laws, suspend risky resettlement of Syrian refugees into the United States and fix the nations foreign visa programs to protect U.S. workers, taxpayers and national security. Keeping tabs on the peoples business requires a tenacious appetite to root out wrongdoing and mismanagement throughout the sprawling size and scope of the federal bureaucracy. My sights will be keenly focused on reining in overreach at the Environmental Protection Agency, particularly towards the implementation of the federal rule known as the Waters of the United States. As an outspoken champion for rural America, whether it comes to roads, renewable energy, agriculture or health care, I stand strong to make sure the needs and challenges facing Americas heartland are heard loud and clear in Washington.  Despite declining gas prices and employment numbers moving in the right direction, too many households are struggling to get ahead and stay ahead. With the high costs of college, prescription medicines and the $19 trillion federal debt looming over the minds of hardworking families, the general mood gripping Americans today is rooted in uncertainty. Thats even on top of increased concern about terrorism. Not since 9/11 has terrorism registered so high among the concerns of Americans. The terrorist attacks in Paris and San Bernadino delivered a stark reminder that the federal governments number one priority is to protect the safety and security of American citizens. Looking ahead to the New Year, I am eager to continue working for Iowans and getting feedback from the grassroots when I start my 36th year holding a meeting in each of Iowas 99 counties in January.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.isakson.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/what-others-are-saying?ContentRecord_id=a02a9ecf-771c-4dae-8e16-314a00ed8d7b,Marietta Daily Journal: Isakson's Year in Review: What the Republican Congress did,2015-12-31,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,GA,Johnny Isakson,I000055,www.isakson.senate.gov,,,legacy,"By Don McKee 
	
	
		
		Georgias senior U.S. senator, Johnny Isakson, says the biggest accomplishment of the Republican-majority Congress in 2015 was the approval of an omnibus appropriations bill for the first time in seven years.  Congress actually went through the process of appropriating rather than doing continuing resolutions and rather than having a government thats on cruise control and continues to spend money like it always did, the senator said in a post-session telephone interview. Probably that accomplishment more than anything else is something that gives us hope, because we had a lot of things that needed to be addressed both from an enhancement standpoint as well as a reduction standpoint, Isakson said.  As for measures sponsored by Republicans, Isakson cited first the Clay Hunt suicide prevention act named for a young Texas Marine veteran who took his own life in 2011. The law provides better access to mental health resources aimed at preventing suicides  which average about 22 a day among veterans. Its already being implemented around the country and were beginning to get some meaningful reductions in suicide incidents in our veterans population, said the senator. This is an issue close to Isaksons heart, and he has wielded his influence as chairman of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee to bring about reforms in the VA and increased funding for veterans health care. He also has a lot of other irons in the fire as chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Ethics.  Isakson ticked off other accomplishments of congressional Republicans. We passed a Keystone Pipeline bill to get Canadian crude down to Texas for refining but the president vetoed it  but we put it on his desk, which was important, the senator said. We did a defense authorization bill for the first time in a couple of years. We did the trade promotion authority to give the president authority for fast track negotiations on trade. We passed repeal of Obamacare on the reconciliation bill, which the president will veto, but we passed it and put it on his desk. This has been a promise of the Republican caucus for the last two election cycles. We passed a reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act which repealed the Common Core provisions of the federal law and left those decisions up to the states and reinforced parental decision making and parental opt-out provisions on testing. We also passed the highway bill for reauthorization of the highway trust fund for the next five years. So for the first time in 17 years, you have a predictable flow of highway money for five years for federal interstates and federal projects in the states, he said. Isakson and his Republican colleagues brought home the bacon for Georgia. The omnibus appropriations act includes $21 million for expansion of the Savannah Harbor. It will be deepened to 47 feet to increase the amount of cargo moved through the port by more than 50 percent. From an economic standpoint, theres nothing more important as far as Georgia is concerned, the senator said. Add the spending from the highway bill, and the economic impact is huge, he said.  Summing up, Isakson said: From a standpoint of business, of education and of the best interests of the people in terms of transportation, its been one of the best years weve had in a long time.  Asked if it was his busiest year ever, he replied: Chairing two committees and having as much as I have had to do as the senior senator now, theres no question its been my busiest and probably my most productive year. Indeed, senator, you make the Energizer Bunny look a little slow in comparison. So just keep going and going.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.rubio.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/fighting-for-florida?ContentRecord_id=368eafdd-9445-46c1-94e4-8378b8c157d6,"Looking Back on 2015, Excited about 2016",2015-12-31,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,FL,Marco Rubio,R000595,www.rubio.senate.gov,,,legacy,"As we look ahead to what promises to be an exciting and eventful 2016, my wife, Jeanette, and I would like to pause for a moment to reflect and give thanks for the year we are leaving behind.
Although Washington continues to be a dysfunctional place that is out of touch and lacks the presidential leadership to confront the big challenges facing our country, I'm proud of the work my office and I did to make a real difference.With a chance to finally serve in a Republican Senate majority, 2015 proved to be our most impactful year in serving the people of Florida in the U.S. Senate.
We learned that our successful effort to stop the taxpayer-funded bailout of health insurance companies that lose money under ObamaCare ended upsaving taxpayers $2.5 billionover the past year. And when the health insurers came back this year to get bailed out,we stopped themonce again.
A bill I introduced to sanction the Iranian-backed terrorist group Hezbollahbecame law, providing the U.S. with an important tool to deprive these savages of money to rain rockets down on Israel and carry out terror attacks against U.S. assets, allies and interests throughout the Middle East.
To combat the growing global crisis of children who never receive birth certificates - and its long-term consequences - I introduced and helped enact into law theGirls Count Act, which directs U.S. foreign assistance to aid countries in setting up birth registries. This new law will help ensure that millions of kids, the majority of them young girls, are not subjected to exploitation, human trafficking and social exclusion because they lack birth certificates to prove their identity.
I was able to play a leading role inre-authorizing the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom, which literally does the Lord's work in defending people around the world whose right to freely practice their faith is under assault.
As part of my foreign policy work, it has also been a great honor serving as chairman of the Foreign Relations Committee's Subcommittee on Western Hemisphere, Transnational Crime, Civilian Security, Democracy, Human Rights, and Global Womens issues. The events unfolding every day in the Western Hemisphere have a significant impact on the state of Florida and our entire nation. As chairman, I convened hearings and conducted oversight on the Obama Administration's policies on important issues facing the region, including U.S.-Cuba relations, Venezuela and Haiti's elections, among others.
I was also pleased that the budget passed by the Senate this past year included my provision in support of moving the U.S. Embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem.
And we've also continued our efforts to defend human rights around the world, championing the advocates of freedom in places like China through my work as co-chairman of the Congressional Executive Commission onChina. I've also continued advocating for those oppressed inCuba, Iran, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia and Venezuela, among other nations. And as part of our work in this area, we also began a regular social media campaign called#expressionNOToppressionto highlight political prisoners, dissidents and pro-democracy leaders whose freedom and very lives are threatened daily.
Closer to home, after introducing legislation to de-authorize the Ten Mile Creek Water Preserve Project in Southeastern Florida - which has faced numerous problems and thus has been non-operational for too long - it became law as part of the end of year spending bill.
Also on the domestic policy front, I proposed a pro-growth, pro-family tax reform plan that is designed to keep theAmerican Dream within reach of our people by resolving the major problems in our dysfunctional tax code.
Throughout the year, I voted to equip our intelligence community with the tools they need to defend the homeland,protect innocent unborn life, defund Planned Parenthood, repeal ObamaCare, end sanctuary cities and put an end to the Export-Import Bank, among other issues. Unfortunately, until President Obama is replaced with a conservative president, real and lasting success on these and many other issues will continue to be elusive.
In addition, we kept holding the Obama Administration's feet to the fire in implementing laws we helped lead toward passage in 2014, including Veterans Affairs (VA) accountability measures and sanctions against human rights violators in Venezuela.
And last but not least, our biggest priority remained helping our constituents in navigating through the federal bureaucracy. This year, we produced the second volume of ourconstituent service report, which highlighted notable cases we've worked on that have helped improve the lives of Florida constituents in need of assistance. From January 2011 to December 2, 2015, our office received 31,024 requests for assistance, and over 29,429 of those requests were completed or closed.
As I enter my final year in the U.S. Senate, it remains the greatest honor of my life to serve the entire state of Florida. Even as I continue to seek the office of the presidency, I renew my commitment to you and your family in assisting with any federal issues you are confronting.
Happy New Year!
Sincerely,
Marco Rubio
For more ways to stay connected with our office, be sure to like ourFacebookpage, follow the officeTwitter account, follow the office onFlipboard, check out our mobile apps, and subscribe to ourYouTube channel.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://barletta.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-lou-barletta-2015-year-in-review,Rep. Lou Barletta: 2015 Year in Review,2015-12-30,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,PA,Lou Barletta,B001269,barletta.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON  Congressman Lou Barletta, PA-11, today reviewed the year 2015 in the United States House of Representatives and highlighted some notable improvements and achievements. Among the important issues covered during the year were continuing the fight against illegal immigration, protecting national security interests from refugees and problems with visas, preserving funding for SHINE, preventing heavier trucks from hitting the highways, and protecting steel jobs in Pennsylvania. Barletta indicated that he would continue the fight on those and other important issues as the 114th Congress resumes on January 5, 2016.
The world is changing rapidly, and Congress must continue to work to address the evolving challenges we face as a nation, Barletta said. In 2015, we addressed many of those needs, and also found solutions to problems we have long been facing. But theres still work to be done.
Barletta Priorities in Highway Bill
Rep. Barletta, a member of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, was among House conferees appointed to negotiate the particulars of a five-year $305 billion Highway Bill, which included many of Barlettas highest priorities for the U.S. transportation system and its infrastructure. While voting for the bill, Barletta did express disappointment that the bill was a missed opportunity to develop serious reforms in transportation funding.
Among Barlettas victories in the final bill were:
Defeating Truck Weight Increase: Barletta was able to defeat efforts that would have increased the weight limit for trucks from 80,000 pounds to 91,000 pounds. Barletta said that local roads were not built to handle the increased weight, and the heavier trucks would pose a greater danger to their drivers and other motorists.
Making Railway Cars Safer: Barletta successfully amended the highway bill to require railway tank cars carrying flammable liquids to be equipped with protections for their pressure safety valves. Newer tank cars already have this type of feature, but the legislation requires older cars to be retrofitted. The requirement would make it more unlikely for tank cars to burst into flames or explode in the event of an accident.
Agricultural Vehicles Near Farms: The highway bill also contains Barlettas priority that states may adopt their own safety standards for agricultural vehicles operating near farms without jeopardizing federal transportation funding. Barletta authored theLocal Farm Vehicle Flexibility Actto allow states to permit farmers to operate vehicles that are technically uncovered as they travel from point to point on a farm or to a nearby processing facility, even if they traverse public roads in the process.
Highway Safety Improvement Program: Barletta led efforts to ensure that the highway bill fully funds the Highway Safety Improvement Program, which pays for safety measures such as guardrails, retroreflective signs, and road markings. The Senate bill had previously reduced the program sharply.
Safer Trucks and Buses: The highway bill includes much of BarlettasSafer Trucks and Buses Act, which seeks to reform safety scores for carriers by making the scores more reflective of the companys safety record. The legislation would temporarily halt the publication of flawed safety scores until the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administrations (FMCSA) Compliance Safety Accountability (CSA) scoring system is revamped. The language in no way eliminates law enforcement access to safety data, meaning that the worst offenders can still be targeted
Reducing Paperwork for Ready Mix Concrete Drivers: The bill reduces burdensome paperwork requirements for drivers of ready mix concrete trucks, without changing any on-duty rules. Currently, if a driver works for more than 12 hours in a shift, the driver must fill out a log book accounting for every 15 minutes of work. The maximum on-duty period allowed is 14 hours. The change simply makes the two requirements line up, eliminating unnecessary paperwork for the driver.
Saving SHINE Funding and Replacing No Child Left Behind
Barletta, a member of the House Committee on Education and the Workforce, supported the Student Success Act, which replaces No Child Left Behind, and importantly rescues federal funding for afterschool programs such as SHINE, originally slated to be eliminated before Barletta intervened. SHINE, or Schools and Homes In Education, is a successful educational program in Carbon, Luzerne, and Schuylkill Counties that Barletta has championed with state Sen. John Yudichak (D-Luzerne/Carbon).
By restoring the 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) program, Barletta has preserved a funding stream that accounts for 49 percent of SHINEs total funding. The bill,the Conference Report to Accompany S. 1177, was negotiated by House and Senate conferees and supplants No Child Left Behind, returning many educational decisions to states and localities.
Beginning in February 2015, Barletta began painstakingly working to restore the 21st CCLC program. The original House version of the bill eliminated the program; however, Barletta negotiated 14 changes to the base text of the bill in support of afterschool programs, and specifically the SHINE model, in the House Education and the Workforce Committee. He also engaged in a colloquy with committee Chairman John Kline (MN-2) to establish a record of support for such programs. On the floor of the House, Barletta spoke in support of his own successful amendment that requires school districts to report to state agencies on the use of Title I money for afterschool activities to further demonstrate the importance of such programs. Finally, when the legislation reached the conference committee, Barletta sent a letter to lead House and Senate negotiators imploring them to preserve the 21st CCLC program. As a result, the conference report passed by the House authorizes $1 billion in funding for the 21st CCLC program.
Fighting Illegal Immigration
Sanctuary Cities
Barletta once again introduced tough legislation cracking down on Sanctuary Cities that he first authored in 2011, theMobilizing Against Sanctuary Cities Act (H.R. 3002), which would prohibitanyfederal funding for a minimum period of one year to any state or local government which has a policy or law that prevents them from assisting immigration authorities in enforcing federal immigration law. A state or local government would only regain federal funding eligibility after the Attorney General certifies that its laws and policies are in compliance with federal immigration law.
The legislation was in response to the July 1, 2015 San Francisco murder of 32-year-old Kate Steinle, whose accused killer is a seven-time felon who had been deported five times previously. Barletta has personal experience with a similar tragedy, as he was mayor of Hazleton in 2006 when a local man, Derek Kichline, was murdered by an illegal immigrant who had been released in New York, another sanctuary city. Barletta was also moved by meeting the parents of 20-year-old murder victim Carly Snyder of Northumberland County, who was stabbed 37 times by an illegal immigrant from Honduras in 2005.
Unfortunately, Senate Democrats blocked a similar bill that would have defunded sanctuary cities. The House had already passed legislation withholding certain law-enforcement funding and grants. There are now 340 such sanctuary cities in the United States, according to the Center for Immigration Studies.
Obamas Executive Amnesty
Barletta led the fight to defund President Obamas illegal executive amnesty plans through the passage of an appropriations bill that would have defunded the amnesty program for illegal immigrants, largely through an amendment Barletta co-authored, had the bill been signed into law. The House approved the appropriations bill for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), along with the key amendment known as theAderholt/Mulvaney/Barletta Amendment. The House also adopted additional amendments Barletta supported, including one which stops the presidents Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, which has abused the practice of prosecutorial discretion on immigration enforcement.
Aderholt/Mulvaney/Barletta Amendment
The lead amendment to the DHS appropriations bill was the one authored by Rep. Barletta, Rep. Robert Aderholt (AL-4), and Rep. Mick Mulvaney (SC-5). It was the Aderholt/Mulvaney/Barletta amendment which would have specifically defunded President Obamas executive amnesty.
The Aderholt/Mulvaney/Barletta amendment addressed the Obama executive amnesty by:
 Preventing any funds from any source from being used to carry out the executive actions the president announced on November 20, 2014.
	Preventing any funds from any source from being used to carry out the so-called Morton Memos, which directed immigration officers to ignore broad categories of illegal immigrants.
	Declaring that no funds may be used to carry out any policies that are substantially similar to the ones being defunded.
	Declaring that the policies being defunded have no basis in federal law or the Constitution and therefore have no legal effect.
	Preventing any funds from being used to provide federal benefits to illegal immigrants intended to be impacted by the presidents executive amnesty.
 American Workers
Barletta remained a leader in the fight against President Obamas executive amnesty for illegal immigration, arguing that the policy was a national security threat and unfairly favored illegal immigrants over legal immigrants and American workers.
We have immigration laws in this country for two basic reasons: to preserve American jobs and to protect national security. President Barack Obamas unlawful executive actions to grant amnesty to at least 5 million illegal immigrants violate both of those principles. Any objective review must find that the presidents policies have placed the concerns of those who have broken our laws ahead of the interests of citizens and legal residents of the United States, Barletta wrote in an opinion column in Roll Call on March 23, 2015. Employment is difficult enough to find for millions of Americans and legal residents who woke up this morning without a pay check. On top of that hardship, the president has now introduced millions of new applicants who will compete for jobs that are already scarce. It is difficult to imagine how such a policy is beneficial to American workers.
Strengthening National Security
In 2015, Barletta, already a member of the House Committee on Homeland Security, was named to the committees Subcommittee on Counterterrorism and Intelligence.
Syrian Refugees
Barletta voted against the $1.1 trillion Omnibus spending bill, primarily because it continued funding of the program that relocates Syrian refugees to the United States. In light of the terror attacks in San Bernardino and Paris, Barletta had proposed suspending the entire refugee program until thorough background checks and screenings can be reliably conducted. The Islamic State, or ISIS, has placed America atop its terror list, and has indicated it would use the refugee program to infiltrate the United States.
In addition, Barletta backed the American SAFE Act, which requires comprehensive background checks of every refugee from Iraq or Syria before they can be admitted into the United States and certification that each does not pose a threat. No refugee from Iraq or Syria will be admitted into the U.S. unless:
 The FBI Director certifies the background investigation of each refugee.
	The Secretary of Homeland Security, along with the FBI Director and the Director of National Intelligence, certifies to Congress that each refugee is not a security threat to the United States.
	The DHS Inspector General independently assesses the refugee approvals, thus making sure that high-risk individuals do not slip through the cracks.
 Fusion Centers
The House passed Barlettas legislation that clarifies and enhances the partnership between the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the national network of fusion centers. A fusion center is a collaborative effort of two or more agencies, including federal, state, and local entities, which share resources and information to improve their ability to detect, prevent, and respond to terrorist or criminal activity. The bill, H.R. 3598, theFusion Center Enhancement Act, passed the House by a voice vote.
The bill improves fusion centers by:
 Directing DHS to make sure its components are providing information and personnel to fusion centers to better cooperate with state and local officials.
	Requiring DHS to coordinate with fusion centers and State Homeland Security Advisors in carrying out assigned responsibilities.
	Requiring DHS to submit a report to Congress on its efforts to meet these requirements.
 Standing Firm on Iran
Barlettavoted against approval of the Iran nuclear deal and in favor of legislation that prevents the President of the United States from lifting or easing sanctions against Iran until January 21, 2017. The bill Barletta voted against was H.R. 3461, which would have approved the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action. The bill failed by a bipartisan vote of 162-to-269, with one member voting present. The bill Barletta voted in favor of was H.R. 3460, which suspends the authority of the president to waive, suspend, reduce, provide relief from, or otherwise limit the application of sanctions pursuant to an agreement related to the nuclear program of Iran until January 21, 2017.
The votes followed addition House action approving a resolution that found that President Obama is in violation of the Iran Nuclear Agreement Review Act of 2015, which requires the president to transmit the agreement, including any secret side deals, to Congress for its approval. It is now known that Iran has cut such covert side agreements with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and that they have not been provided to Congress.
Defending Steel Jobs, Leveling the Playing Field
Barletta was a key leader in protecting the steel industry during the passage of legislation that strengthens enforcement of U.S. customs and trade laws, and protects American employers and workers from unfair practices by companies in other nations. The conference report on theTrade Facilitation and Trade Enforcement Act (H.R. 644),which is the result of negotiations between the House and Senate, incorporates requirements Barletta insisted upon to protect American jobs from countries which illegally dump cheap products into markets like steel manufacturing.
The provisions of the ENFORCE Act included in the conference report prevent countries from circumventing trade laws by shipping a product through another country and switching the label. For example, when China dumps steel into America, American steel companies spend time and money building a case against the Chinese dumping. If they win that case, the steel companies deserve to have the Chinese penalized for the dumping. The ENFORCE Act makes sure that Customs and Border Protection (CBP) actually investigates the American companies case. The ENFORCE Act gives CBP a strict deadline to review the case. American companies can pursue a case in U.S. Trade Court if the company believes CBP is rubberstamping the decisions without fairly reviewing the details.
For his efforts, Barletta was named a 2015 Congressional Steel Champion by the American Iron and Steel Institute, an organization representing the majority of steel producers in North America. Barletta received the award in recognition of his efforts to strengthen antidumping and countervailing duty laws, and his leadership on the ENFORCE Act to improve the process to ensure the laws against unfair trade are strictly enforced.
Saving Taxpayers $2.8 Billion
As Chairman of the Subcommittee for Economic Development, Public Buildings, and Emergency Management of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, Barletta is tasked with governing federal real estate assets, among other federal responsibilities. In that role, Barletta has steered federal agencies through an improvement in the way the federal real estate footprint is managed. Through creative use or renovation of existing properties, or through better structuring of leases, Barletta has saved taxpayers more than $2.8 billion since being named subcommittee chairman in 2013.
Relieving Burden on the Taxpayers
Barletta supported legislation that makes permanent many tax provisions and extends others, preventing a tax increase for millions of Americans.The Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes Actachieves certainty for individuals and businesses by extending or making permanent 55 provisions of the Internal Revenue Code that expired on December 31, 2014 and extending other policies for two and five years.
Among the tax policies made permanent for individuals were:
 Enhanced Child Tax Credit.
	Enhanced American Opportunity Tax Credit (for post-secondary education).
	Enhanced Earned Income Credit.
	$250 deduction for K-12 teachers for school supplies (indexed for inflation).
	Charitable giving incentives (food inventory, conservation easements, and IRA charitable rollover).
	State and local sales tax deduction.
	Among the tax policies made permanent for businesses were:
	Research and Development Tax Credit.
	Section 179 Expensing (helps cyclical businesses like farming and construction invest in new property and equipment).
	Active financing exemption.
	15-year recovery for leasehold and restaurant improvements.
	Charitable contributions of S corporations.
	5-year recognition period for S corporation built-in-gains.
	The Medical Device Tax contained in Obamacare has been delayed by two years, helping device makers, their employees, and consumers.
 In addition, the legislation reins in the IRS and protects taxpayers by:
 Firing IRS employees who take politically-motivated actions against taxpayers.
	Requiring IRS employees to respect the taxpayer bill of rights.
	Prohibiting IRS employees from using personal email accounts for official business.
 Fighting the Jeansville Mine Fire
Barletta assumed a leadership role in finding a solution to the Jeansville mine fire, which has been burning for decades near the village of Tresckow in Banks Township in Carbon County. He pressed federal, state, and local authorities for a solution to the ongoing public safety hazard, and also convened a meeting with the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and local officials in September to exchange information about the problem.
As a result of the coordinated efforts, DEP has awarded a contract to Hazleton Shaft Corporation to isolate and extinguish the Jeansville mine fire. According to DEP, the $9.3 million contract involves digging two isolation trenches to contain the fire and stop it from spreading. The project will involve the excavation of approximately 2.6 million cubic yards of material to isolate the fire on the south side. A water supply for the fire will be obtained by connecting to a line owned by the Hazleton City Authority and from a well to the mine pool which lies below the area.
Protecting Correctional Officers
Barletta co-sponsored legislation that requires the U.S. Bureau of Prisons to supply oleoresin capsicum spray, commonly known as pepper spray, to prison officers or employees who may respond to emergency situations with inmates. TheEric Williams Correctional Officer Protection Act(H.R. 472) is named for an officer at the United States Prison at Canaan who was brutally murdered by an inmate in 2013.
Senior Correctional Officer Eric Williams, of Nanticoke, Pennsylvania, was murdered by convicted gang assassin Jessie Con-ui at the high security prison on February 25, 2013. Con-ui, a member of the violent New Mexican Mafia gang, was serving an 11-year sentence when he suddenly attacked Officer Williams, knocked him down a flight of stairs, and stabbed him more than 200 times with homemade blades known as shanks. Con-ui is charged with first-degree murder, first-degree murder of a U.S. corrections officer, and possessing contraband in prison. Prosecutors are seeking the death penalty.
Preserving Veterans Cemeteries as Places of Honor
Legislation Barletta introduced would ensure that veterans buried in military cemeteries are truly eligible for that honor and have not been convicted of state or federal capital crimes. The legislation,Berties Respect for National Cemeteries Act, is named for Pennsylvanian Bertha Bertie Smith, who was murdered by a man who was subsequently interred in Indiantown Gap National Cemetery in Pennsylvania. The legislation also provides for her killers removal from the cemetery. This legislation is supported by the Veterans of Foreign Wars.
Berties Respect for National Cemeteries Act was made necessary by the burial of George Emery Siple at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery. Siple was convicted of the October 15, 1969 capital murder of Bertie Smith outside a local store front. He was interred in the cemetery upon his death in prison in 1999, despite his evident ineligibility under current law. Smiths family has been unsuccessful to this point in petitioning for his disinterment.
The legislation:
 Requires Department of Veterans Administration (VA) National Cemeteries and Arlington National Cemetery to take every reasonable action, including searching public criminal records, to ensure that a veteran is eligible to be buried.
	Allows for the disinterment of veterans convicted of capital crimes, to apply to all burials after 1997.
	Provides for the disinterment of George Emery Siple.
 Defending Innocent Life
Barletta supported legislation, theRestoring Americans Healthcare Freedom Reconciliation Act of 2015 (H.R. 3762), which dismantles Obamacare, places a moratorium on funding of clinics which provide abortions, provides new funding for womens health centers, and reduces deficits by an estimated $130 billion over ten years. Under the Fiscal Year 2015 concurrent Budget Resolution, three House committees were required to produce legislation to bring spending into line with the law through a process known as budget reconciliation. As a result, the Education and the Workforce, the Energy and Commerce, and the Ways and Means Committees reported legislation to the Budget Committee, which combined the three into H.R. 3762.
Barletta also backed a resolution that established a select committee to investigate potential wrongdoing and lawbreaking involved in abortion provider practices. The move came in the wake of videos exposing Planned Parenthoods practice of selling the organs and body parts of unborn children. Specifically the committee will look into medical procedures and business practices involving fetal tissue procurement, federal funding and support for abortion providers, and providers of late-term abortions, including partial birth abortion and procedures for the care of a child born alive as a result of an attempted abortion.
The Congressman co-sponsored two important bills to protect unborn children. H.R. 3134, theDefund Planned Parenthood Act, eliminates federal funding of that abortion provider while the practice of selling fetal body parts and organs is investigated. In addition, H.R. 3504, theBorn-Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act, requires any health care practitioner present to administer medical attention to a baby born alive following an attempted abortion.
Backing Israel
In a year that saw history made by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus address to Congress, Barletta was outspoken in his support for Israel, Americas strongest ally in the Middle East. Barletta was an original cosponsor ofH.Res. 485, which expresses solidarity with the people of Israel in the wake of recent terrorist attacks and condemns the Palestinian Authority for inciting an atmosphere of violence. The resolution details a number of recent terrorist attacks supported and encouraged by the Palestinian Authority and Hamas, and is also critical of propaganda efforts intended to increase the surge of violence against Israeli citizens.
Barletta was also an original cosponsor ofH.Res. 500, which expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that the State of Israel has the right to defend itself against Iranian hostility and that the House pledges to support Israel in its efforts to maintain its sovereignty. The resolution contends that the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, otherwise known as the Iran Nuclear Deal, diminishes Israels national security. Barletta has been a harsh critic of the deal President Obama approved, which paves the way for Iran to obtain nuclear weapons.
Welcoming Pope Francis
Congress welcomed Pope Francis to Washington, DC in September, and Barletta expressed his admiration for the Holy Father by saying, It was a singular honor for me and my wife, Mary Grace, to be present in the House chamber when Pope Francis addressed a joint session of Congress, the first time any pope has done so. These are very troubling times in which we live, and the popes message of peace is something that people of all faiths  or no faith at all  can benefit from. We should be greeting the Holy Father as Americans, not as Republicans or Democrats, and check our politics at the door as we do so. He is the leader of one of the great religions of the world, the successor to Saint Peter, and we should all listen to and reflect on what he has to say.
Barletta also presented a painting by Hazleton artist Salvadore DeFazio titled A Prayer for Peace to the pontiffs traveling staff. The painting depicts a pair of hands reaching upward, toward a dove and star in the sky. DeFazio was also named Hazletons first poet laureate while Barletta was mayor of the city.
Looking out for Volunteer Firefighters
For the fourth time, Barletta introduced his legislation to protect volunteer firefighters and emergency responders from the unintended consequences of Obamacare. Barlettas bill, theProtecting Volunteer Firefighters and Emergency Responders Act, ensures that emergency services volunteers are not counted as full-time employees by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) under the Employer Mandate of Obamacare. If volunteer fire companies were subject to the mandates of Obamacare, they could be liable for crippling new health care costs, causing many to have to close their doors. The House previously has passed similar legislation on three separate occasions by a combined unanimous vote of 1,226-to-0. The legislation is supported by the National Volunteer Fire Council, the International Association of Fire Chiefs, and the Congressional Fire Services Institute.
In 2014, after months of pressure from Barletta, other members of Congress, and firefighters, the IRS indicated that it will not count hours of volunteer firefighters and emergency responders when determining an employers full-time employees in compliance with Obamacare. Barletta, however, has continued to pursue passage of his legislation as insurance against future changes from the IRS.
Connecting to Main Street
In 2015, Congressman Barletta continued his Main Street Tours, during which he visited local businesses and heard the concerns and ideas of small employers and citizens. Barletta has conducted nearly thirty Main Street Tours since 2013 in communities across the 11th District.
While Barletta indicated that while he was pleased with the successes of 2015 and the first session of the 114th Congress, he will continue to fight for the 11th District of Pennsylvania.
If 2015 taught us anything, its that it is much better to get half a loaf of bread than no loaf at all, Barletta said. We have much more work to do, and I look forward to 2016.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://jasonsmith.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-jason-smith-organizes-open-town-hall-meeting-at-clara,Congressman Jason Smith organizes open Town Hall Meeting at Clara Drinkwater Library to discuss Mississippi River Levels and surrounding Levees,2015-12-30,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,MO,Jason Smith,S001195,jasonsmith.house.gov,,,legacy,"Cape Girardeau, MO On Thursday, December 31, 2015 at 4pm, Congressman Jason Smith invites residents and media to speak directly with the Army Corps on the recent record rainfall and current levels on the Mississippi River. The meeting will provide an opportunity for the Army Corps and others to give a status update on current river levels, projected levels, and what the plan is for each levee. After the update, residents and the media will have a chance to ask questions.
WHO:    U.S. Congressman Jason Smith (MO-08)
Major General Wehr, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Mississippi Valley Division
Colonel Anderson, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Mississippi Valley Division
Sam E. Angel, Mississippi River Valley Commission
         The Honorable Norma Jean Mattei, Mississippi River Valley Commission
WHAT:Status update and discussion on recent record rainfall and Levee integrity
WHERE:Clara Drinkwater Library, 105 E Marshall St, Charleston, MO
WHEN:  Thursday, December 31, 4pm
***Members of the media are invited to the meeting***",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://lobiondo.house.gov/event/martin-luther-king-day-federal-offices-closed,Martin Luther King Day - Federal Offices Closed,2015-12-30,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,NJ,Frank LoBiondo,L000554,lobiondo.house.gov,,,legacy,"Martin Luther King Day - Federal Offices Closed                        
         	  Start: 
         	  January 18, 2016
         	  End: 
         	    January 18, 2016
         	   
         	           	
                                          
              Dec 30, 2015",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://lobiondo.house.gov/event/presidents-day-federal-offices-closed-0,President's Day - Federal Offices Closed,2015-12-30,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,NJ,Frank LoBiondo,L000554,lobiondo.house.gov,,,legacy,"President's Day - Federal Offices Closed                        
         	  Start: 
         	  February 15, 2016
         	  End: 
         	    February 15, 2016
         	   
         	           	
                                          
              Dec 30, 2015",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://luetkemeyer.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398666,Luetkemeyer Ranked Among Most Effective Lawmakers in House of Representatives,2015-12-30,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,MO,Blaine Luetkemeyer,L000569,luetkemeyer.house.gov,,,legacy,"Luetkemeyer Ranked Among Most Effective Lawmakers in House of Representatives  
   
    
       
      
  
    
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        In a recent study performed by the Legislative Effectiveness Project (LEP), U.S. Rep. Blaine Luetkemeyer (MO-03) was ranked Missouris most effective lawmaker. 
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      In a recent study performed by the Legislative Effectiveness Project (LEP), U.S. Rep. Blaine Luetkemeyer (MO-03) was ranked Missouris most effective lawmaker. 
The Legislative Effectiveness Project is run by professors at the University of Virginia and Vanderbilt University and measures how successful a given representative is at getting things done. The average Legislative Effectiveness Score for any given member in the 113th Congress was 1.0. Luetkemeyer received a 2.344. In addition, Luetkemeyer was ranked 45th out of the 240 Republicans in the House of Representatives. The list can be found here.
As a Member of Congress, one of the most important parts of the job is to listen to your constituents and take what they have told you back to Washington to put their concerns and ideas into action. Thats what the legislation that I introduce each year is all about. I am very pleased to be recognized as an effective lawmaker but it does not happen alone. It takes collaboration with and support from my colleagues, along with assistance from my staff, for bills to pass through committees, the House, the Senate, and be enacted into law.
    
  
  
  
    
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http://roby.house.gov/column/new-year-strong-start,"A New Year, A Strong Start",2015-12-30,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,AL,Martha Roby,R000591,roby.house.gov,,,legacy,"As the House convenes for the Second Session of the 114th Congress, it is important to get off to a strong start. Thats why Im pleased the very first bill to be considered this year is a plan to repeal Obamacare and begin the process of replacing it with healthcare policy that works.

It is past time for this law to go.Under Obamacare, many in Alabama and throughout the country lost the health plans they liked. Many have been forced to go to different doctors, to say nothing of the doctors who stopped practicing altogether. Premiums skyrocketed and many middle class families are being impacted by new taxes, fees and penalties. 

I wouldnt blame you for thinking, So what? The House has voted to repeal Obamacare dozens of times. Its true that my colleagues and I in the House have voted more than 50 times to repeal, defund or replace the presidents health care law. And, each time, our efforts are ultimately blocked in the Senate, where Republicans lack the 60 votes needed to overcome a Democratic filibuster.

Whats different this time? This time our plan was carefully crafted to follow the Senates special Reconciliation rule that allows certain budget-related legislation to go through by a majority vote regardless of a filibuster. The Senate came through in late 2015 passing the Obamacare repeal reconciliation package by a vote of 52-47. That means when the House takes up and passes the measure first thing this year, we will finally send a bill repealing Obamacare to the presidents desk.

Some may quibble that this is somehow an empty gesture. After all, President Obama will never sign a bill repealing his signature legislative achievement and the law that bears his name.

However, as veteran lawmakers like Sen. Jeff Sessions (R-Ala.) and Sen. John Cornyn (R-TX) have pointed out, forcing a veto puts accountability for this deceptive, costly healthcare law squarely on President Obama. It also sends a clear message to the American people that, under a new president in 2017, Congress stands ready to replace this disastrous law with healthcare policies that put patients first.

Thats a message I believe will be well-received, especially now. Just as Obamacare mandates and penalties have started setting in, many signing up for health plans are facing higher premiums, fewer doctors and skimpier coverage,"" according to The Wall Street Journal. For those who do get coverage, the out-of-pocket expenses of actually seeing a doctor have risen dramatically in a maze of deductibles, copays, and co-insurance, the paper reports.

Yes, President Obama can stop our Obamacare repeal reconciliation package from becoming law this year. But, he cannot stop the growing chorus of Americans unhappy with the higher costs and broken promises of his healthcare law. Their voices are being heard in Congress, where, finally, a majority in both the House and Senate are ready to end this failed experiment and deliver better, more workable healthcare policy.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://stivers.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398853,No Child Should Ever Be Without a Home,2015-12-30,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,OH,Steve Stivers,S001187,stivers.house.gov,,,legacy,"Recently, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) released its Annual Homeless Assessment Report to Congress.  This report provides a point-in-time count of homeless Americans, an estimate which is based upon the numbers collected on one particular night in January. The count includes homeless individuals living in shelters, and those identified by volunteers who survey places such as streets, parks, rail stations and all-night businesses where those who are homeless frequently seek shelter. 
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      Recently, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) released its Annual Homeless Assessment Report to Congress. This report provides a point-in-time count of homeless Americans, an estimate which is based upon the numbers collected on one particular night in January. The count includes homeless individuals living in shelters, and those identified by volunteers who survey places such as streets, parks, rail stations and all-night businesses where those who are homeless frequently seek shelter. In 2015, HUD identified 128,000 homeless children under the age of 18 in the United States. This reflects a 5.8 percent decrease from the numbers it released for 2014. While a decrease in the number of homeless youth would be cause to celebrate, unfortunately, these numbers dont provide a complete picture of the problem.  In fact, the HUD survey does not consider the places most homeless families and youth can be found, which is staying temporarily with other people, or in motels. By comparison, the Department of Education, which does consider these living arrangements, identified more than 1.3 million homeless children and youth in the 2013-2014 school year, a number that was UP from 2012-2013. Two different federal agencies with two completely different stories to tell as it relates to homeless youth -- this is a discrepancy we must fix to ensure that the federal government has accurate data and the information it needs to best serve this extremely vulnerable population.  Thats why Representative Dave Loebsack (D-IA) and I introduced the Homeless Children and Youth Act last January. This bipartisan legislation would require HUD to adopt a more accurate definition of homelessness, to ensure that homeless children and youth are eligible for the same assistance available to homeless adults. Specifically, our bill would expand HUDs definition of homeless to include all children and youth who are already verified as homeless by several other federal educational and social services programs.  No child should ever be without a home, let alone be forced to navigate bureaucratic red tape just to prove that they are actually homeless and to get access to available services that will help get them back on their feet. This change would help HUD more effectively serve these young people, and they could do it at no new cost to American taxpayers.  Representative Loebsack and I have been working closely with First Focus Campaign for Children, the National Association for the Education of Homeless Children and Youth, the National Parent Teacher Association, the National Network for Youth, the National Law Center on Homelessness and Poverty, and the National Center for Housing and Child Welfare to garner support for this important legislation. In addition, a companion bill has been introduced in the U.S. Senate by Senators Rob Portman (R-OH) and Diane Feinstein (D-CA).  As temperatures begin to drop and provide more challenges for homeless Americans everywhere, it is my hope that Congress will act soon on this bipartisan and common-sense effort to serve those most in need.  -30- Steve Stivers is a three-term Member of Congress from Ohios 15th Congressional District.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://tipton.house.gov/press-release/tipton-statement-usfs-ski-area-water-rights-directive,Tipton Statement on USFS Ski Area Water Rights Directive,2015-12-30,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,CO,Scott Tipton,T000470,tipton.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTONToday, Congressman Scott Tipton (R-CO) issued this statement in response to the U.S. Forest Services publication of the final directive for the Ski Area Water Clause in the federal record.
 
	The Forest Services conditional use of permit for ski areas has been one of the Administrations most onerous attempts to hijack private water rights. While the latest version of the directive is improved from the original that sought to outright force the transfer of private water rights to the federal government, there still is room for improvement. The latest rendition of this ill-fated directive places unnecessary restrictions on private water rights holders, in an attempt to solve a problem that doesnt exist. By the Forest Service Chiefs own admission, there has not been an instance of ski area water rights being sold off for other uses. Furthermore, there is still ongoing concern that while the Forest Service may not require the outright transfer of private water rights in this directive, it is still enforcing manuals that do.
	Western water users are right to be wary of any action on water rights by this Administration, which has been dead set on slowly expanding federal control over water in the Western U.S. We continue to work on getting legislative protections in place to codify state water law and defend private water rights users from federal taking and interference as our Water Rights Protection Act seeks to do.
 
Despite the Forest Services insistence that under the new ski area permit condition it will no longer require the transfer of water rights, Forest Service manual 2441.32 (Possessory Interests), which is currently being enforced, instructs the agency to continue to claim water rights of permittees. It is unclear if or how the Forest Service plans to reconcile the conflicting instructions.
Section 2541.32 of the 2007 Forest Service Water Uses and Development Manual directs:
Claim possessory interest in water rights in the name of the United States for water uses on National Forest System lands as follows:
Claim water rights for water used directly by the Forest Service and by the general public on the National Forest System.
Claim water rights for water used by permittees, contractors, and other authorized users of the National Forest System, to carry out activities related to multiple use objectives. Make these claims if both water use and water development are on the
National Forest System and one or more of the following situations exists:
a. National Forest management alternatives or efficiency will be limited if another party holds the water right.
b. Forest Service programs or activities will continue after the current permittee, contractors or other authorized user discontinues operations.
See the full manual HERE.
Tipton has led the charge in Congress to protect private water rights users from federal takings and interference. He is the sponsor of the Water Rights Protection Act, H.R. 1830, which would provide water users with a line of defense from federal attempts, such as the Forest Service Groundwater Management Directive and ski area permit clause, to take private water rights without compensation or restrict user access to them. H.R. 1830 has passed the House in the 113th and 114th Congresses, and has wide support from local, state and national stakeholders including the National Ski Areas Association.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://upton.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398564,Upton Reviews 2015 and Looks Ahead to 2016  in New Report,2015-12-30,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,MI,Fred Upton,U000031,upton.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.  Congressman Fred Upton, R-St. Joseph, today released a new report titled 2015: The Year in Review and a Look Ahead which outlines many of the legislative and policy priorities his office tackled in 2015 and looks towards the new year.
We had a busy year working to move the ball down the field by focusing on commonsense, bipartisan solutions to problems faced by families and businesses here in Southwest Michigan and across the country, said Upton, who also chairs the House Energy and Commerce Committee. Im proud of the progress weve made on a host of fronts, and look forward to the new year as we still have much work yet to be done as we pursue an ambitious, pro-growth agenda. Im excited and optimistic about the opportunities before us as we continue to get the job done for everyone in Southwest Michigan. 
The report breaks down specific policy areas in which Congressman Upton has been a bipartisan community leader; jobs and the economy, healthcare innovation, veterans care, homeland security, education, the Great Lakes, Medicare and Medicaid, agriculture, opioid abuse, infrastructure, and the Internet. 
Click HERE to read the report.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.hoeven.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ContentRecord_id=1f75cd94-3d62-4be9-8515-616901dfce81,"Hoeven Reviews December Legislative Accomplishments, North Dakota Priorities",2015-12-30,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.30.15
			 Hoeven Reviews December Legislative Accomplishments, North Dakota Priorities  
			
				
	
	
	
	
	 
	
	
			
		
	
	
	
		
		
		
		
		
		
		
		
		
		
		
		
			
		
        
				 Senator Holds Year-End Roundtable with Bismarck-Mandan Chamber of Commerce
			
			 BISMARCK, N.D.  Senator John Hoeven today held a roundtable in Bismarck with local officials and business leaders to outline key legislative accomplishments that he worked to advance throughout the year and that Congress included in legislation passed this month. Hoeven worked with his congressional colleagues to address North Dakotas priorities and meet the needs of the states families, schools, businesses and farmers across a wide variety of areas, including energy, tax, education, transportation and regulatory policy.
We secured important priorities for our state and nation, Hoeven said. We lifted the ban on crude oil exports, provided tax relief, restored local control over education standards and ensured stronger funding for long-term infrastructure projects. These accomplishments will provide considerable benefits for our businesses and our families by promoting greater economic growth and local autonomy.
Senator Hoeven helped to successfully pass the following measures through Congress this December:
Lifting the Ban on Crude Oil Exports
 
Hoeven, a member of the Senate Energy Committee, repeatedly called for the repeal of the outdated crude oil export ban and cosponsored bipartisan legislation earlier this year to do just that.
Allowing crude oil exports will support domestic energy production, grow the nations economy, provide good jobs for workers, reduce fuel costs for consumers and enhance the security of the U.S. and our allies.
 
Tax Relief for Small Business and Farmers
 
Approved tax relief totaling $680 billion over ten years.
Included a permanent extension of Section 179 with the $500,000 limitation and a five-year extension of bonus deprecation, important provisions that provide small businesses certainty and flexibility in planning their long-term finances.
Extended permanently the Low Income Housing Tax Credit, a dollar-for-dollar tax credit for private investments made in affordable housing. The credits are used by the North Dakota Housing Finance Agency alongside state programs to ensure an adequate housing supply is available for the states workers and their families.
Provided relief from Obamacares costly and burdensome mandates, including a two-year delay of the tax on businesses that pay their employees health care plans and a two-year delay of the Medical Device Tax.   
 
Regulatory Relief for Farmers and Ranchers
 
Blocked the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) from reinstating the Waters of the U.S. Interpretive Rule, preserving the general agriculture exemption under the Clean Water Act for farmers and ranchers.
 
Restoring Local Control over Education
 
Passed the Every Student Succeeds Act, education authorization legislation that repeals No Child Left Behind, restores local control over education standards, replaces one-size-fits-all accountability requirements with state-designed systems and ends the Common Core mandate.
Strengthened Impact Aid for schools affected by the loss of property taxes due to nearby military bases and other federal land.
Included a provision based on legislation offered by Senators Hoeven and Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) to bolster Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education.
 
Providing Flexibility in School Nutrition Requirements
 
Approved Hoevens school nutrition reform amendment, which gives flexibility to schools struggling to comply with the U.S. Department of Agricultures (USDA) whole-grain and sodium standards during the 2016-2017 school year.
Allows schools to retain the original USDA whole-grain requirement of 50 percent, rather than requiring that 100 percent of all grains served be whole-grain rich.
Prevents the Administration from requiring further reductions in sodium, which have already been brought down to the Target 1 level. Further reductions in sodium are not currently supported by scientific evidence and would be difficult for schools to achieve due to increased costs and limited available food products that children would actually eat.
 
Passing a Five-Year Highway Bill
 
Passed the Fixing Americas Surface Transportation (FAST) Act, a five-year highway bill that is fully paid for.
Provides North Dakota with more than $1.3 billion, increases annual funding for the state by $23 million per year, up to $263 million, provides $76 million over five years for transit projects in the state and enables more than 100 projects in the state to move forward.
Includes Hoevens Driver Privacy Act, legislation that establishes in law that the owner of a vehicle is also the owner of any information collected by an Event Data Recorder (EDR).
Restores the $3 billion that was cut from crop insurance earlier this year.
 
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http://www.hoeven.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/public-events?ContentRecord_id=6df9171c-2fd6-430b-8453-abbbf6dd55f3,Year-End Roundtable with Bismarck-Mandan Chamber of Commerce,2015-12-30,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Event 
	
	
	
	

	
			
		
		
		
			
				
				December 30 2016 11:00 AM
				
					
					On Wednesday, December 30, Senator Hoeven will host a roundtable with the Bismarck-Mandan Chamber of Commerce to review North Dakota legislative priorities that he worked to advance this year and that passed Congress in December, including:
 
Lifting the ban on crude oil exports
Providing tax relief for small businesses and farmers
Providing regulatory relief for farmers and ranchers through stopping the Environmental Protection Agencys (EPA) Waters of the U.S. regulation
Ensuring education funding and local control
Providing school meal flexibility in sodium and grain requirements
Passing the five-year highway bill, which will provide North Dakota with more than $1.3 billion and enable more than 100 N.D. transportation projects to advance                                                 
 
Year-End Roundtable with Bismarck-Mandan Chamber of Commerce
WHEN: Wednesday, December 30
11:00 a.m. CT
WHERE: Bismarck-Mandan Chamber of Commerce
 1640 Burnt Boat Drive  Bismarck",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://bost.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/get-latest-southern-illinois-flooding-here,"Get the Latest on the Southern Illinois Flooding, HERE.",2015-12-30,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,IL,Mike Bost,B001295,bost.house.gov,,,legacy,"Because I want to do everything I can to provide Southern Illinoisans with the resources they need should this flood damage or destroy property, I am providing residents with the following links for up-to-date information concerning the Flood of 2015. For a list of available Red Cross shelters should you need to evacuate your home or business, clickHERE. For a list of the latestroad closings throughout Southern Illinois, click HERE. Most importantly, please DO NOT attempt to drive your car into a high water area. We have already seen tragedy associated with residents trying to cross roadways in order to get to higher elevations.
If you have any questions, please contact my office in Belleville at (618) 233-8026 or in Carbondale at (618) 457-5787. The most important thing you can do is pray for our residents, first responders and all those directly impacted by this flooding.
Thank you. Mike.
Our next stop was Alexander County where we talked to workers and local officials at the county highway garage in Olive Branch.
I'm continuing our tour of areas in the 12th District most prone to flooding or that have already seen flooding. We're now in Grand Tower, one of the areas that may see some of the worst flooding, talking with residents and officials in that community.
We've had wonderful response and communication from the Army Corps of Engineers. With me addressing questions from residents and officials in Grand Tower is Major General Michael Wehr.
A critical part of getting needed information out to our residents is the local media and I thank them for doing, just that. Reporters from WSIL TV 3 and KFVS TV 12 were here, talking to residents and us about the latest flooding information to pass on to their viewers. Thank you for helping Southern Illinoisans stay informed!
In Alton, dozens of volunteers helped place sandbags ahead of where water is expected to rise. Mayor Brant Walker told me flooding was expected in the basements of the downtown business district but they are preparing for the worst. We also met with officials from FEMA as we continue communication with all the federal, state and local agencies involved to work together in helping our Southern Illinoisans.
As I continue to tour the areas of the District impacted by the flooding, I stopped in Alton to talk with Mayor Brant Walker. Alton is along the Mississippi River in Madison County and is about 15 miles north of St. Louis.
It's been an amazing experience seeing Southern Illinoisans coming out to help their neighbors, even though many have never met. I was touched to see members of the Civic Memorial High School football team in Bethalto come to Alton to help fill sand bags. The Southern Illinois spirit is strong as we help each other! If you get a chance, please share this photo to let others know what these young men did for their community! 
Please continue to pray for all those impacted by this severe flooding from our residents to our local businesses and our first responders. The response of Southern Illinoisans to help their neighbors has been overwhelming.
If you need to move to a shelter, here's a site that will provide you with that information. Just click on the state of Illinois and look to the right of the screen. It's there where you'll find the current list of shelters in Southern Illinois operated by the Red Cross. You can access that website, HERE.
For the latest information on road closures, flood warnings and watches, you can go to a site maintained by the State of Illinois. It is updated on a regular basis. To find out more, click HERE.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://costello.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/costello-encourages-pa-06-residents-apply-us-passport-early,Costello Encourages PA-06 Residents to Apply for U.S. Passport Early,2015-12-30,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,PA,Ryan Costello,C001106,costello.house.gov,,,legacy,"West Chester, PA  Ahead of 2016, Congressman Ryan Costello (PA-06) took the opportunity to provide the following public service announcement to individuals seeking to obtain or renew a United States passport in the coming year.
Recently, Secretary of State John Kerry issued a warning that the 10-year anniversary of the implementation of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative may prompt a surge in passport applications, and consequently result in a slower process. The Department estimates that nearly 45 million passports will expire in the next three years, compared to 26 million in the past three years. As State Department staff work to meet their service commitments, they are encouraging travelers to take the necessary steps to start the application process early.
Costello echoed the warning for travelers not to wait until the last weeks to renew their passports: If you have plans to travel abroad in the coming year, I encourage you to make sure your passport is up to date well before your departure, said Congressman Costello. Pennsylvania Sixth District residents seeking a passport should submit their application at least 6-8 weeks before their date of travel, particularly if you are submitting an application in the spring or summer months when the volume of applications is larger.For individuals that may run into problems, my casework staff is happy to help constituents ensure the process moves along.
Congressman Costellos office urged constituents who are filing as a first time applicant to be sure their birth certificate includes their parents names and raised seal on it.Additionally, many countries require travelers passports to have at least six months validity, so passport holders should not wait for their document to expire prior to submitting the renewal application. 
Casework staff is available to answer any questions applicants may have. Staff can be reached at the Wyomissing District Office (610) 376-7630 or by visiting Costello.house.gov. For more information on applying for a United States passport, please visit travel.state.gov.

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https://donovan.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/donovan-blasts-obama-kerry-appeasing-iran-expense-american-security,"Donovan Blasts Obama, Kerry for Appeasing Iran at Expense of American Security",2015-12-30,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,NY,Daniel Donovan,D000625,donovan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Staten Island, NYDecember 30, 2015.Congressman Dan Donovan (NY-11) today voiced strong opposition to the Obama administrations pledge to protect Iranian business interests by waiving Congressionally-mandated travel visa restrictions. Congressman Donovan said, Apparently, Irans business interests come before American security and citizens. Its yet another weak and wrongheaded step in the Obama administrations long road of placating our enemies. At issue is a Donovan-supported measure passed into law as part of the year-end funding package. It requires travelers to obtain a visa before visiting the United States if they have also visited Iran, Iraq, Syria, or Sudan in the past five years. This includes citizens of the 38 countries which participate in a visa-waiver program with the United States. The goal is to make it more difficult for would-be terrorists to enter America. Iran took issue with the security restrictions, arguing they came about as a result of the Zionist lobby and directly contradict the parameters of the nuclear deal agreed to earlier this year. In response, Secretary of State John Kerry penned a letter to his Iranian counterpart assuaging Irans concerns and promising to implement the law so as not to interfere with legitimate business interests of Iran. Donovan continued, Iran still holds American prisoners who were ignored as part of the nuclear negotiations, and Iran violated U.N. missile test restrictions just two months ago. Despite the regimes flagrant disregard for American citizens and international norms, the Obama administration immediately submitted to Irans complaints. Several Americans have been held captive in Iran for years. Even after the nuclear deal, Iran convicted an American reporter on bogus espionage charges and arrested an American businessman. Earlier this month, United Nations experts announced that Iran violated an international resolution when it conducted a missile test in October.

###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://marchant.house.gov/2015/12/30/congress-to-send-obamacare-repeal-planned-parenthood-defunding-to-the-presidents-desk/,"Congress to send Obamacare repeal, Planned Parenthood defunding to the presidents desk",2015-12-30,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,TX,Kenny Marchant,M001158,marchant.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congress to send Obamacare repeal, Planned Parenthood defunding to the presidents desk
      
                         December 30, 2015
        
              
            
  
  Congress to send Obamacare repeal, Planned Parenthood defunding to the presidents desk
Information from Speaker Ryan Press Office
December 30, 2015
View Online | http://spkrryan.us/1MH9eWs
Next week, for the first time, Congress will send the president a billrepealing Obamacareanddefunding Planned Parenthood. That bill is called theRestoring Americans Healthcare Freedom ReconciliationAct, and you canread it here. Here are three reasons why this bill is so important:
Repeals Obamacare.With each passing day, it becomes more apparent that Obamacare is an unmitigated disaster for hardworking families and our economy. Millions of Americans have already been kicked off plans the presidentrepeatedly promisedthey could keep, while countless others face the sticker shock ofdouble-digit premium increases. This bill effectively repeals the mandates and taxes at the heart of the law.This will be the first Obamacare repeal bill that Congress sends to President Obama since the laws enactment in 2010. This, of course, is a critical step in replacing this law with a patient-centered plan as a part of abold, pro-growth agenda.
Defunds Planned Parenthood.The horrific videos released earlier this year depicting Planned Parenthood affiliates harvesting and selling fetal body parts should offend everyone regardless of political persuasion. The House has already responded byestablishing a panelfocused on investigating this practice. In the meantime, Americans should not be forced to fund this organization. Thats whyCongress will act to defund Planned Parenthood, and shift those resources to community health centers.
Forces President Obamas Hand.Weve worked tirelessly to dismantle Obamacare and protect Americans from this law. All told, weve forced President Obama to signat least 10 billsthat chip away at parts of Obamacare. The recent year-end funding legislationincludedno new money for Obamacare and prohibited a taxpayer bailout of Obamacares risk corridor program. We also delayed taxes at the heart of the law, forcing the president to make his biggest concession since Obamacare went into effect. Still, thats not enough. So were usingreconciliation, a budget mechanism that can only be used once every year. Its an opportunity to avoid a filibuster from Senate Democrats and put conservative priorities directly on the presidents desk.
This is our best shot to stand up for our principles on behalf of the American people. You can use this bill once a year, and were using it for this, Speaker Ryansaid recentlyon Bill Bennetts show. In doing so, were forcing the president to confront the failures of this law once and for all.
We owe it to the country to take our best shot at repealing Obamacare, and thats what we will do next week.
 ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://palmer.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/aderholt-only-alabama-republican-vote-omnibus-states-congressional,Aderholt only Alabama Republican to vote for omnibus; State's congressional delegation weighs in on budget,2015-12-30,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,AL,Gary Palmer,P000609,palmer.house.gov,,,legacy,"Although Congress passed a bi-partisan budget deal on Friday to avert a government shutdown, only two members of the Alabama delegation followed the leaders of their parties' call to approve the omnibus bill that funds the government until September.
U.S. Reps. Robert Aderholt, R-Haleyville, and Terri Sewell, D-Birmingham, were the only two ""yes"" votes for the omnibus in the House; both Sens. Richard Shelby and Jeff Sessions voted against it in the Senate, as they previously indicated they would.
The $1.1 trillion omnibus package was a compromise hashed out by legislative leaders that includes lifting America's 30-year ban on exporting oil, funding increases for NASA, the Veterans Affairs department, federal workers, the National Institutes of Health and Historically Black Colleges and Universities (there are 12 HBCUs in Alabama.) But it also left out key Republican priorities like blocking the president's Syrian refugee resettlement plan and defunding Planned Parenthood.
Aderholt, a conservative Republican who plays a key role in the annual National Prayer Breakfast, said he voted for the bill because it continued a ban on federally monies from going to abortion except in cases of rape, incest or if the life of the mother is in danger.
""The bill is known more for what it is not than for what it is. While I was able to get some important language included for the pro-life movement, the bill does not contain other riders I had hoped for such as tying the president's hands on the Syrian refugees and peeling back the EPA water regulation. That is a big disappointment,"" he said in a statement. ""The good news is that this bill is the last vestiges of Speaker Boehner's style of leadership and in two weeks we will start putting together a bill that with conservative principles will pass with conservative votes.""
Sewell cited the NIH increase and funding boosts to HBCUs and other education programs, as well as money allocated to preserve historic civil rights cites as among the reasons she was one of166 Democrats to approve the omnibus in the House. The Democrats were joined by 150 Republicans who voted ""yes,"" while 95 Republicans and 18 Democrats voted against it.
""This is not a perfect bill, but I am proud that both sides of the aisle were able to work out a compromise that benefits our nation, and helps us continue to grow,"" Sewell said in a statement.
The rest of the Alabama delegation  all Republicans  were united in their opposition to the omnibus, with most of them pointing to the Syrian refugee issue as the reason why they voted against the bill.
""I am outraged that the bill that passed today did not prohibit funding for President Obama to bring refugees from the Syrian conflict to America,"" said Rep. Mike Rogers, R-Saks. ""What happened in California demonstrates that Islamic terrorists are ready and willing to use our lax immigration system to enter our country and do us harm.""
Rep. Bradley Byrne, R-Fairhope, agreed.
""Our nation is at war, and I could not support a government funding bill that fails to address the reality of the serious security challenges our nation his facing,"" he said in a statement. ""I was disappointed the bill did not include provisions to block any funding from going to the Syrian refugee resettlement program. For months now, I have been warning about the legitimate problems posed by this program, and this bill fails to prevent the president from bringing Syrian refugees into the United States.""
Although Shelby fought for language in the bill that is beneficial to Alabama, including a provision on rockets that affects some 850 jobs in Decatur and expanding access to red snapper on the Gulf Coast, he said the Syrian issue outweighed the positives.
Sessions echoed Shelby's sentiment on Syria and also criticized the bill for increasing the number of visas and green cards. It also did not satisfy Sessions' concerns on illegal immigration or defunding sanctuary cities.
Rep. Mo Brooks, R-Huntsville, also cited the Decatur jobs and other provisions that would help his district as among the measures he liked in the bill, but said his economic concerns spurred him to vote against the omnibus.
""Financial experts have repeatedly warned Washington of America's increasing debilitating insolvency and bankruptcy if Washington does not cease its out-of-control spending habits,"" he said, adding that the bill increases the debt by ""hundreds of billions of dollars.""
Rep. Gary Palmer, R-Hoover, who is in the conservative House Freedom Caucus with Brooks, also mentioned the debt as the rationale for his ""no"" vote.
""A spending bill should reflect the priorities of our nation,"" he said. ""This $1.1 trillion bill does not. It continues to pile debt on our children without sufficient reforms.""
A spokesman for Rep. Martha Roby, R-Montgomery, suggested the bill wasn't conservative enough to earn her vote.
""Representative Roby takes her role as a member of the Appropriations Committee seriously,"" said Todd Stacy. ""In the end, this omnibus bill does not reflect the conservative principles House appropriators worked on and fought for all year, so she voted against it.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.boozman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/weekly-columns?ContentRecord_id=6233b924-df4e-445c-82fa-11d43eb1957a,2015 in Review,2015-12-30,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,AR,John Boozman,B001236,www.boozman.senate.gov,,,legacy,"As we close the book on another year and celebrate the excitement and promise of a New Year, I want to highlight some of the Senates accomplishments in 2015.
Under new Republican leadership, the Senate set out to restore responsibility to the fiscal process. We passed the first bicameral budget since 2009. More importantly, the first balanced budget since 2001. And all twelve appropriations bills were approved by the Senate Appropriations Committee for the first time in six years.
We took big strides in providing relief to hardworking Arkansans and their families. Most significantly, we passed the first Obamacare repeal bill that will make it to the Presidents desk.
The legislation we passed would begin to lift the burdens and higher costs the failed program has placed on every Arkansan. It begins to build a bridge from the presidents broken promises to a better health care system for hardworking families across the country.
The Obamacare repeal isnt the only relief we have sought to provide the people of Arkansas from the Obama Administrations regulatory excesses.
The Senate has passed measures to overturn the Environmental Protection Agencys (EPA) waters of the U.S. (WOTUS) mandate and the carbon rules on new and existing power plants, two glaring examples of administration overreach. These EPA mandates strip Arkansans of their personal property rights, stifle job growth and will raise the cost-of-living for every Arkansan.
While the President will likely veto these bills, Senate passage of them sends a clear message of disapproval of these policies on behalf of the American people.
Certainly not all of our accomplishments have met a veto pen.
People often ask me why Congress cant work together to get things done for the American people. I can honestly say that we are.
We started off the year with by passing the groundbreaking Clay Hunt Suicide Prevention for American Veterans (SAV) Act to ensure our veterans receive mental health services. We also prevented a cut to Medicare providers that would have left many Arkansas seniors desperately searching for new doctors.
This year we came together to pass the first multi-year highway bill since 2005. It will allow Arkansas and other states for important infrastructure improvements, which are so vital to our economic well-being. Hundreds of projects in Arkansas were at risk of cancellation or further delays if a long-term bill was not passed. The Fixing Americas Surface Transportation (FAST) Act was signed into law by President Obama on December 4, 2015.
The President also signed the first significant education reform bill since 2002.
Im proud of what weve been able to accomplish this year, and I look forward to continuing to work with the Arkansas congressional delegation on your behalf in the coming year. I am confident we will continue to build off of 2015s successes to create policies that will help make 2016 and years to come better for the people of Arkansas. I wish you and your family all the best for the new year.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.burr.senate.gov/press/releases/sen-burr-recaps-strategic-legislative-accomplishments-for-2015-,Sen. Burr Recaps Strategic Legislative Accomplishments for 2015,2015-12-30,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,NC,Richard Burr,B001135,www.burr.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.30.15
			 Sen. Burr Recaps Strategic Legislative Accomplishments for 2015  
			
			WASHINGTON  Today, Senator Richard Burr (R-NC) revisited several of his high profile legislative accomplishments for 2015 including an important conservation program renewal, education funding for low-income families, military reforms and transportation improvements.
Senator Burr said: Over the last year, I successfully wrote several bills that have since become law. These new laws will enhance the lives of our veterans, help children from low-income families get better education and enable transportation improvements for high traffic corridors. Im pleased that I delivered for North Carolina in 2015. Every day, my staff and I work to make sure that our federal dollars are efficiently used in the state. This year was a productive one in Congress, and that means $24 million to children from low-income families, and a revitalized military in North Carolina. As Intel Committee Chairman, I introduced legislation which was signed into law that addresses serious weaknesses in our ability to protect Americans against cyber-attacks. I can and will keep fighting for North Carolina families.
A few of Sen. Burrs legislative successes from 2015:
Title II Education Funding Reform in the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) 
 
In addition to repealing the common core mandate, ESSA includes language sponsored by Burr that fixes an inequity in federal education funding that for 15 years has not only shortchanged North Carolinas teachers and schools, but also the low-income students they serve across North Carolina.
The funding fix will add $24 million each year for school programs.
Senator Burr introduced on April 16th 2015.
 
 
Signed into law December 10th 2015.
 
Cybersecurity Information Sharing Act of 2015
 
The Cybersecurity Information Sharing Act helps protect Americans personal privacy by taking steps to stop future cyber-attacks before they happen. This legislation creates an environment that encourages the sharing of information about cyber threats, allowing all participants to get a better understanding of the current threats that may be used against them.
A series of high profile hacks exposed the personal information of millions of Americans to online identity thieves, including Americans with high level security clearances.
Senator Burr introduced the legislation on March 17th 2015 and was marked up the following day.
Signed into law December 18th 2015.
 
Land and Water Conservation Fund Reauthorization (LWCF)
 
Sen. Burr began advocating for a full, permanent reauthorization of the popular conservation fund several years ago. The authorization of the fund expired in September, but after leading the fight in the Senate to renew this fund, Congress passed a three year extension.
Established in 1964, the LWCF is one of Americas most successful federal conservation programs, conserving irreplaceable lands and improving outdoor recreation opportunities throughout the nation. It requires no taxpayer funding.
Senator Burr introduced February 3rd 2015.
Signed into law December 18th 2015.
 
North Carolina Highway Improvements in the Transportation Bill, Fixing Americas Surface Transportation Act (FAST Act)
 
Included in the comprehensive transportation bill (FAST Act) areprovisions introducedby Senators Tillis and Burr that amend the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act (ISTEA) of 1991 and designate the following North Carolina highways as high priority corridors and future interstates:

Raleigh-Norfolk Corridor from Raleigh, North Carolina, through Rocky Mount, Williamston, and Elizabeth City, North Carolina, to Norfolk, Virginia.
U.S. Route 70 from its intersection with Interstate Route 40 in Garner to the Port at Morehead City, and U.S. Route 117/Interstate Route 795 from U.S. Route 70 in Goldsboro to Interstate Route 40 west of Faison.
The designation of the highways advances the North Carolina Department of Transportations Strategic Transportation Corridors Vision, which aims to provide North Carolina with a network of high priority corridors that will become part of the Interstate system once they are fully built and upgraded to interstate standards.
Sens. Tillis and Burr introduced the legislation on May 14th 2015.
Signed into law on December 4th 2015.


 
Military Sex Offender Reporting Act of 2015 (MSORA)
 
The Military Sex Offender Reporting Act of 2015 (MSORA), introduced by Senator Burr, requires the Department of Defense to directly report sex offenders convicted or punished under article 47 of the Uniform Military Code of Justice (UCMJ) to the National Sex Offender Registry (NSOR) administered by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Dru Sjodin National Sex Offender Public Website. Previously, sex offenders convicted under UCMJ were required to self-report to a local jurisdiction upon their release.
Under these new laws, communities can be fully aware of former offenders in their neighborhoods.
Senator Burr introduced the legislation February 6th 2015.
Signed into law in June of 2015.
 
			
			
			
		
		
	
	  

	
	
	
	
	 
		
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https://www.cruz.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=2567,Sen. Cruz Tours Tornado Wreckage in Rowlett,2015-12-30,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,TX,Ted Cruz,C001098,www.cruz.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) today joined U.S. Rep. John Ratcliffe (R-Texas), Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, State Sen. Bob Hall (R-Canton), State Rep. Cindy Burkett (R-Sunnyvale), Rowlett Mayor Todd Gottel, and Rockwall County Judge David Sweet to tour the areas ravaged by tornadoes last Saturday.
After witnessing the wreckage, Sen. Cruz said, It is heartbreaking to see these homes that have been utterly destroyed, and yet, it is miraculous that in the face of all of this devastation, there was not more loss of life. Weve seen homes that have been reduced to piles of rubble, and yet miraculously, the families that were there survived. That is something for which we are all thankful. It is also remarkable seeing how Texans respond in the face of tragedy. Over and over again, when faced with natural disasters, Texans come together. We had the opportunity to visit with volunteers from neighboring areas that have come together to help clean up the wreckage, to help patch up the roofs, to help people put together their lives. That sense of community, that sense of love, that sense of togetherness is one of the things that really defines Texas.
I commend the mayor, the city officials, the county officials, and the local and state governments for stepping up and helping their citizens rebuild their lives. The cleanup operation is incredible. And over and over again, as we visited with people, families who had lost their homes were simply saying, Thank God we survivedphysical possessions can be replaced. People are hurting. People are grieving. And we are coming together as one to pray for and stand with our friends and neighbors in the face of this natural disaster.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-reviews-december-legislative-accomplishments-north-dakota-priorities,"Hoeven Reviews December Legislative Accomplishments, North Dakota Priorities",2015-12-30,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.30.15
			 Hoeven Reviews December Legislative Accomplishments, North Dakota Priorities  
			
				
	
	
	
	
	 
	
	
			
		
	
	
	
		
		
		
		
		
		
		
		
		
		
		
		
			
		
        
				 Senator Holds Year-End Roundtable with Bismarck-Mandan Chamber of Commerce
			
			 BISMARCK, N.D.  Senator John Hoeven today held a roundtable in Bismarck with local officials and business leaders to outline key legislative accomplishments that he worked to advance throughout the year and that Congress included in legislation passed this month. Hoeven worked with his congressional colleagues to address North Dakota's priorities and meet the needs of the state's families, schools, businesses and farmers across a wide variety of areas, including energy, tax, education, transportation and regulatory policy.
We secured important priorities for our state and nation, Hoeven said. We lifted the ban on crude oil exports, provided tax relief, restored local control over education standards and ensured stronger funding for long-term infrastructure projects. These accomplishments will provide considerable benefits for our businesses and our families by promoting greater economic growth and local autonomy.
Senator Hoeven helped to successfully pass the following measures through Congress this December:
Lifting the Ban on Crude Oil Exports
 
Hoeven, a member of the Senate Energy Committee, repeatedly called for the repeal of the outdated crude oil export ban and cosponsored bipartisan legislation earlier this year to do just that.
Allowing crude oil exports will support domestic energy production, grow the nation's economy, provide good jobs for workers, reduce fuel costs for consumers and enhance the security of the U.S. and our allies.
 
Tax Relief for Small Business and Farmers
 
Approved tax relief totaling $680 billion over ten years.
Included a permanent extension of Section 179 with the $500,000 limitation and a five-year extension of bonus deprecation, important provisions that provide small businesses certainty and flexibility in planning their long-term finances.
Extended permanently the Low Income Housing Tax Credit, a dollar-for-dollar tax credit for private investments made in affordable housing. The credits are used by the North Dakota Housing Finance Agency alongside state programs to ensure an adequate housing supply is available for the state's workers and their families.
Provided relief from Obamacare's costly and burdensome mandates, including a two-year delay of the tax on businesses that pay their employees' health care plans and a two-year delay of the Medical Device Tax.   
 
Regulatory Relief for Farmers and Ranchers
 
Blocked the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) from reinstating the Waters of the U.S. Interpretive Rule, preserving the general agriculture exemption under the Clean Water Act for farmers and ranchers.
 
Restoring Local Control over Education
 
Passed the Every Student Succeeds Act, education authorization legislation that repeals No Child Left Behind, restores local control over education standards, replaces one-size-fits-all accountability requirements with state-designed systems and ends the Common Core mandate.
Strengthened Impact Aid for schools affected by the loss of property taxes due to nearby military bases and other federal land.
Included a provision based on legislation offered by Senators Hoeven and Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) to bolster Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education.
 
Providing Flexibility in School Nutrition Requirements
 
Approved Hoeven's school nutrition reform amendment, which gives flexibility to schools struggling to comply with the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) whole-grain and sodium standards during the 2016-2017 school year.
Allows schools to retain the original USDA whole-grain requirement of 50 percent, rather than requiring that 100 percent of all grains served be whole-grain rich.
Prevents the Administration from requiring further reductions in sodium, which have already been brought down to the Target 1 level. Further reductions in sodium are not currently supported by scientific evidence and would be difficult for schools to achieve due to increased costs and limited available food products that children would actually eat.
 
Passing a Five-Year Highway Bill
 
Passed the Fixing America's Surface Transportation (FAST) Act, a five-year highway bill that is fully paid for.
Provides North Dakota with more than $1.3 billion, increases annual funding for the state by $23 million per year, up to $263 million, provides $76 million over five years for transit projects in the state and enables more than 100 projects in the state to move forward.
Includes Hoeven's Driver Privacy Act, legislation that establishes in law that the owner of a vehicle is also the owner of any information collected by an Event Data Recorder (EDR).
Restores the $3 billion that was cut from crop insurance earlier this year.
 
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https://www.isakson.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/what-others-are-saying?ContentRecord_id=fa9c2418-4f72-4533-8665-c889edec6e3a,"Coastal Courier: Carter, Isakson look forward to new year in DC",2015-12-30,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,GA,Johnny Isakson,I000055,www.isakson.senate.gov,,,legacy,"By Brent Zell 
	
	
		
		It was a year of learning and experiencing a lot, U.S. Rep. Buddy Carter, R-Ga., said.
In his first year as representative from the 1st Congressional District, the Pooler native got to experience Pope Francis address to Congress up close and went with a group of legislators to Israel to meet with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Each event, Carter said, was an honor.
Then, there was dealing with a new schedule. In his days as a state legislator, Carter was used to 40-day sessions in Atlanta and getting to go home around the end of March or beginning of April. Being a U.S. congressman, however, is year-round and 24/7, he said. Even being back home, he said he was busy getting around and seeing people in a district that has 17 counties, including Liberty and Long.
Its very time consuming, but its very, very exciting, Carter said.
One of Carters major goals when going to Congress was to tackle the national debt, which was at nearly $19 trillion Dec. 24, according to TreasuryDirect.gov. This year, for the first time since 2009, Congress passed a budget, which cuts the debt by $5.5 trillion over the next10 years, Carter said.
A budget that, granted, its not a balanced budget, but it does give us a roadmap to a balanced budget, he said.
Also, Congress passed a highway bill that covers five years worth of spending, marking the first time in decades that a highway bill longer than two years was approved. That was key to helping relieve the debt, Carter said. That is because in order to economically grow out of debt, sound infrastructure has to be in place, which means transportation has be taken care of, he said.
The federal bill will work in harmony with Georgias highway bill that was passed this year in Atlanta by making sure projects keep going, Carter added.
The federal governments got to be a reliable partner to the states in order for the states to get projects underway and completed, he said.
Other key legislation from this year included ensuring doctors will accept Medicare from seniors, entitlement reform for the first time in two decades, and the passage of an omnibus bill that included $21 million for the Savannah Harbor deepening. Also, the defense budget was increased, which he said was vital to the 1st District and its four military bases.
For 2016  the House reconvenes on Tuesday  Carter said the No. 1 item as far as hes concerned is national security. Carter, a member of the House Committee on Homeland Security, said the top responsibility of the government is to protect its citizens from terrorist groups like the highly publicized Islamic State, also known by the acronym ISIS.
Weve got to make sure this is done. Weve got to destroy this threat known as ISIS, Carter said.  The congressman said the House has addressed some concerns connected with that. In November, the House passed legislation that puts a hold on allowing Syrian and Iraqi refugees into the country until they are deemed safe to enter, according to CNN.com. Also, earlier this month, the House passed an overhaul of the federal visa-waiver program, which would restrict anyone traveling to or from Iraq, Syria, Iran and the Sudan without a visa, also according to CNN.com. Both pieces of legislation are currently in the Senate.
Other aspects for the House to consider in 2016 include having regular order on voting for appropriations  basically, being able to focus on 12 appropriations bills instead of passing one omnibus package as was done this year. Also, with U.S. Rep. Paul Ryan, R-Wis., recently installed as speaker, Carter said comprehensive tax reform  one of Ryans main projects  should get looked at in the coming year.
Of course, with an even-numbered year looming, elections are imminent. Carter is used to that, as he has run for office 12 of the last 20 years, and has his re-election campaign underway.
We always like to get out, he said.  This is my home and has been my home my whole life, and I just love the 1st District.
Senate
On Monday  his 71st birthday  U.S. Sen. Johnny Isakson, R-Ga., said he got good news on his health. The senator, who announced earlier this year he had been diagnosed with Parkinsons disease, had a checkup and got a 100 percent sign-off, no problems whatsoever, he said.
That means a good start for the impending new year, one that will see Isakson run for re-election and a third term as senator.
The 2015 legislative year, meanwhile, featured one of the biggest projects for Georgia that Isakson has seen in his public life: the Savannah Harbor deepening. The senator said getting President Barack Obama to include funds for that project in the recently passed budget secures its future.
Thats huge for Georgia and huge for southeast Georgia, Isakson said.
The past year also saw Isakson accomplish his legislation calling for significant compensation for the Americans held hostage in Iran from 1979-81. Three of the hostages were from Georgia. Compensation had been held up by the Algiers Accords, which forbade America from suing Iran for the money.
Its long overdue, but well-deserved, Isakson said.
That legislation was part of the budget bill passed earlier this month, which also included $665 billion in tax cuts in next five years. Isakson said he was pleased with the budget in terms of tax policy, stating that in terms of relief and incentives, its probably the biggest spending package he has been a part of.
While the Senate did more this year than in the other six years of the Obama administration, Isakson said, there were some goals that fell short. Expansion of the Keystone Pipeline was vetoed by the president, as was a repeal of the Affordable Care Act. Isakson said the efforts will continue to repeal the ACA, also known as Obamacare, which Isakson said is imploding on its own with rate hikes and the closing of insurance cooperatives.
One thing that also did not get repealed was the Waters of the United States rule, which says that the federal government has jurisdiction over pretty much any water on any property  even a puddle left over because of a rainstorm, Isakson said. He said that rule hurts agriculture and construction, and its an issue that should be left up to local control.
Also in terms of the environment, Isakson said that he is all for a clean environment and carbon reduction, but he felt the president overreached with new regulations for the coal industry, saying it has been bad for prosperity and the electrical grid, and would like to see that rolled back.
Echoing Carter, Isakson cited national security as a major priority for 2016. The senator said he would like to see a stronger policy with regard to the Middle East in order to root out terrorists.
The more committed we are to eradication of ISIL, the safer our children and grandchildren and our country will be, the senator said, referring to another acronym for Islamic State.
Isakson said he would like to see a change in the direction of the National Labor Relations Board in the wake of its ruling that, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, established any company that reserves the right to influence employment conditions over workers hired by a contractor is a joint employer, even if it never exercises that right or only does so indirectly. Isakson said the ruling tries to suppress small businesses.
With the election year coming up  and already wild presidential campaigning on both sides  Isakson said it promises to be one heck of a presidential race. Isakson already has his re-election bid in full swing, saying his campaign has raised $5 million in the last year and the campaign staff has been hired.
A representative for U.S. Sen. David Purdue, R-Ga., did not respond to an interview request by the Coastal Courier before press time Tuesday.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.mccain.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=c78c1e97-d1a5-4b86-9444-f1ebcce730e5,STATEMENT BY SASC CHAIRMAN JOHN McCAIN ON IRAN ROCKET LAUNCH NEAR U.S. AIRCRAFT CARRIER,2015-12-30,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,AZ,John McCain,M000303,www.mccain.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.  U.S. Senator John McCain (R-AZ), Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement today on Irans recent rocket launch near the USS Harry S. Truman aircraft carrier in the Strait of Hormuz:
""As the Obama Administration celebrates the Iran nuclear deal, Iran conducted a highly provocative launch of several rockets with little warning just 1500 yards from a U.S. aircraft carrier in the Strait of Hormuz. This alarming launch comes after Iran has conducted two advanced missile tests since October in violation of United Nations Security Council resolutions. Yet the Administration continues to turn a blind eye to Iranian saber rattling, continued state sponsorship of terrorism, and violations of its international commitments for fear Iran will walk away from the nuclear deal.
""The administration's desperate attempts to get sanctions relief before the elections in February based on an unfounded belief that it will promote what they perceive as a 'moderate' political strain in Iran is both nave and dangerous. A rush to sanctions relief threatens to embolden an increasingly aggressive Iranian regime that has no intention of normalizing relations with the West or of retreating from a malign policy intended to destabilize the Middle East.
""We need a to ensure that U.S. forces are postured to respond to Iranian aggression and finally adopt a comprehensive strategy to counter Iran's malign influence in the Middle East.""
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://zeldin.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-zeldin-calls-investigations-nsa-spying-members-congress,Congressman Zeldin Calls for Investigations into NSA Spying on Members of Congress Conversations with Israeli Leadership,2015-12-30,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,NY,Lee Zeldin,Z000017,zeldin.house.gov,,,legacy,"Patchogue, New York - Congressman Lee Zeldin (R, C  NY 1), member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee and Co-Chair of the House Republican Israel Caucus today called on Congress and the Department of Justice to investigate the NSAs spying on members of Congress conversations with top Israeli leadership. The House Intelligence Committee just announced today that it is opening a probe. Additionally, Congressman Zeldin called on the Obama Administration to disclose information related to its role in this questionable activity.
If the latest reports are true, laws were broken and there must be accountability for all responsible, said Congressman Zeldin. First off, Israel is a trusted ally of the United States of America and should be respected as such. The NSAs spying of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and top level Israeli leadership harms our relationship with our greatest friend and ally in the Middle East. Furthermore, and especially concerning, the NSA should not have been recording the conversations between members of Congress and Israeli leadership. It appears that laws may have been broken.
Congressman Zeldin met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, as well as other top leaders in the Israeli government, during the negotiation and deliberation of the P5+1 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), the Iran Nuclear Agreement.
Israel is a beacon of freedom and democracy in a region of the world that is filled with darkness, continued Congressman Zeldin. Americas foreign policy should be one that strengthens our relationships with our allies and treats our enemies as our enemies. These new details about the NSAs spying does nothing to strengthen our relationship with Israel and other allies around the world. If only the Obama administration would channel a fraction of its bias against Israel towards more responsible policy towards Iran, America would be made more secure today and in the future.
Congressman Zeldin concluded, Putting the spying of Israeli leadership aside for a moment, in what interpretation of national security can the President of the United States justify using National Security Agency assets to spy on members of Congress? Is this really for national security or is it for political gain? The Obama administration must disclose the entirety of its role in this questionable activity. The United States Department of Justice should appoint a Special Prosecutor and the United States Congress should investigate the Obama Administration and National Security Agency to pursue full clarity and accountability regarding this deeply troubling activity.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://duncan.house.gov/wivks-gunner-honored-work-vets,WIVK's Gunner Honored for Work with Vets,2015-12-29,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,TN,John Duncan,D000533,duncan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Mr. Speaker: I wish today to honor a man that many in my District know by only one name. Ted Ousleyor simply Gunner as he is known to his many fansis one of the most popular people in my District and a longtime personality with WIVK radio in Knoxville, Tennessee. Each weekday from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Your Cowboy Pal Gunner entertains listeners with his unique brand of East Tennessee charm, humor, and grace. He loves his job, and you can tell when listening to his show. He once said that he was living his dream by being on the air with WIVK. In 2003 and 2004, Gunner was voted the Best DJ by Metro Pulse readers and was a finalist for the Marconi Air Personality of the Year.  
	  
	But Gunner is not just known for his entertainment. He is also a tireless champion of Veterans. Following the September 11th terror attacks in 2001, Gunner started a segment on his show called Voices from the Front, where he would  
	connect families over the phone with their loved ones serving in the wars. It was hugely popular and emotional for him and his listeners.  In 2004, he traveled to Iraq, and upon his return led an effort to bring to the United States for treatment an 8-year-old suffering from a severe form of Spina Bifida. In 2009, Gunner received the first annual Civilian Warrior Award for his work with the 844th Engineer Battalion. East Tennessee is one of the most patriotic places in this Country. Each year, Gunner helps lead the Veterans Day parade in Knoxville, which is attended by many thousands of people.  In addition to his service to Veterans, Gunner finds the time to run two East Tennessee farms and serve on the Board of Directors of the East Tennessee Alzheimers Association. Mister Speaker, Ted Gunner Ousley embodies the Volunteer spirit of East Tennessee.  His humility and dedication to those who serve will forever hold a place in our hearts, and I thank him for his dedication to this Country and wish him success as he continues to entertain us each day.  I also call his work with Veterans to the attention of my Colleagues and other readers of the Record in hopes that he will be an inspiration to many more.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://gohmert.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398291,Gohmert Reflects on 2015 Battles in the U.S. House of Representatives,2015-12-29,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,TX,Louie Gohmert,G000552,gohmert.house.gov,,,legacy,"Sen. Bill Ratliff once told me the old adage, Its amazing what you can get done if you dont care who gets the credit. He was so right. Knowing that I had evoked Speaker Boehners wrath, I would tell him I did not care whose name was on a bill that needed to come to the floor for a vote and I have gotten a number of bills passed and others should pass this next year. 

Since my first term in office, I have been pushing to end the automatic increase in every federal department and agency. That would make it a Zero Baseline Budget. Four years ago, Boehner agreed to bring it to the floor under the name of the stellar young House member who managed it in committee. It passed the House, but the Senate did not take it up. About two years later, it was again passed out of the House as the Woodall-Gohmert bill, though I told Paul Ryan not to put my name on it because it might prevent it coming to the floor for a vote. Paul said, Ive already told Boehner everybody knows you are the one who has been pushing this since youve been here, so he said ok. The Senate did not take it up, but I am told in this Congress, we should pass it this year and demand the Senate vote on it. Since Speaker Ryan strongly supports it, it may get a vote in the Senate.
 
    THE KARI'S LAW ACT OF 2015 
 
We have worked with various aspects of the lodging industry, phone system providers, and concerned individuals including Hank Hunt, to draft Karis Law that will require phone systems be provided with the default allowing anyone dialing 911 to reach emergency help without dialing any prefix. We expect to get it passed this year.
 
    OBAMACARE ORIGINATION CLAUSE
 
Previously, I drafted a bill that would state that it is the sense of the House that the ObamaCare bill did not originate in the House as the Constitution requires for bills that raise revenue or have taxes in them. There are attorneys who have filed suit and gotten different judgments in different Circuit Courts, so there is a good chance that the Supreme Court will take it up. If we pass that resolution, it will be evidence of which an appellate court can take judicial notice and could be persuasive. After drafting it, I talked the Chairman of the Constitution subcommittee into being the lead sponsor and he has done a great job.

Continue to lead an effort, as personally requested by former U.S. Attorney General Ed Meese, to reform thecriminal code so that no one can be thrown in jail or prison for an innocuous violation of a rule or regulation written by unelectedbureaucrats that Congress has not specifically approved as a criminal violation. That outrage has repeatedly occurred and needs to be stopped.

Have led efforts for almost five years to ensure the military is always paid in the event of a government shutdown; got a temporary bill passed but continue to push for making the payments for our military automatic as Social Security payments are.

There should be no doubt that I led the effort beginning three years ago to get a new Speaker which finally paid off in October of this year. 

Continue to push to get additional legislation in each Congress to deal with Invasive Species such as Giant Salvinia that is destroying some of our East Texas lakes. We have had some success, but need to provide more help to the states on such a critical national issue.

Continue to be the leading proponent demanding that the Senate take up the Iran deal as the treaty it actually is. It modifies existing treaties which can only be done by another treaty that is ratified with a two-thirds vote in the Senate. The Corker bill cannot change that Constitutional requirement for a treaty. 

We welcome legal immigrants, but must enforce our border as a matter of national security. In the last Congress, I stopped the House bill that Boehner had secretly drafted the last week of July and had acquired enough Republican pledges to pass it, even without anyone reading it. After it was finally filed Tuesday before the vote on Thursday, I read it through the night on Tuesday to Wednesday morning, realized it was a de facto amnesty bill, so I got copies of all my notes to leading allies in the House and to national talk show hosts. By Thursday morning the Speaker had lost so many of his pledges, he had to pull the bill from consideration. That Thursday night I spent hours with about fifteen other members of Congress changing the bill until we changed it from an amnesty bill to a decent border security bill that we passed late that Friday night with massive Republican support.
 
    STANDING UP AGAINST BLANKET AMNESTY 
 
Continue to be a leader in fighting against granting blanket amnesty to those illegally in the United States. President Obama's unlawful executive action on immigration was frankly outrageous and an offense to the U.S. Constitution. Not only did the administrations unlawful memos trample on the U.S. Constitution, they caused many, who applied to come to the United States legally, to go to the back of the processing line behind those who were breaking the law. This nation was built on the Rule of Law; it is my promise to continue to be a vocal opponent of executive amnesty.There is no doubt that immigration has fortified this country; however, it should be done legally. 

The original Authorization of Use of Military Force passed seven days after 9-11-2001 gave massive powers to the President allowing him to lock up American citizens without right of Habeas Corpus. In the last Congress, I led a fight to get that corrected in the National Defense Authorization Act. As the Chairman of the Armed Services Committee was negotiating acceptable language with the Senate, he had me come to his conference room privately to work on language acceptable to conservatives and most libertarians each time the Senate sent back a new proposal. I would consult with Constitutional Law professors by phone. We finally worked out a satisfactory solution that protected everyone legally in the U.S., though CAIR and the ACLU wanted everyone illegally here with the same protections that the Immigration laws do not afford them.

Continue to push legislation that will punish sanctuary cities.

Was an extremely vocal critic of the TPA and TPP as they gave far too much power to the President to negotiate away our sovereign rights.

Proposed we end the monopoly on scoring potential bills by the Congressional Budget Office and the Joint Tax Committee, by making it competitive and scoring the scorers. Dr. Arthur Laffer, Ronald Reagans economic advisor called me recently to say he had gotten a private grant to come up with a system like I suggested and would be announcing his proposal very soon.
 
    PROTECTING & ARMING MILITARY 
 
Having been a leader in pushing bills for a number of years that would allow our military members to carry weapons at their U.S. duty station under certain situations, we finally got language included in the NDAA this year that will allow such.
 
    PROTECTING STATES NATURAL RESOURCES RIGHTS
 
Have also led efforts to pass bills that will allow states to govern certain activity including oil and gas production if the state has an agency that governs it.
In addition to this, top conservative and policy groups have ranked my strong voting record in the highest percentiles: Heritage (93%), FreedomWorks (100%), NumbersUSA (96%). 
It is my commitment to you, as your humble representative from the First Congressional District of Texas, to stand firmly on the principles that formed this nation and continue to push forward legislation that empower we the people. We must keep fighting the good fight for the generations that will follow us. It is my hope and prayer that 2016 will truly be a year of restoration for this country.
Many blessings to you and your family, 
Louie",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://huizenga.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398276,Watch Congressman Huizenga's Facebook Town Hall,2015-12-29,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,MI,Bill Huizenga,H001058,huizenga.house.gov,,,legacy,"Watch Congressman Huizenga's Facebook Town Hall 
   
    
       
      
  
    
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      On Monday afternoon, Congressman Huizenga held his first-ever live video town hall on Facebook. During the town hall, Rep. Huizenga took questions from West Michigan residents on the threats posed by ISIS,how Congress is addressing refugees from war torn regions in the Middle East,the negative impact of Dodd-Frank on West Michigan community banks, his legislation to make the Federal Reserve more accountable and transparent to the American people, the legislative plan to defund Planned Parenthood and how Congress is preparing to put the first major ObamaCare repeal legislation on President Obama's desk in January. You can watchthe entire town hall event below:   
 

 
Earlier today, I held a live town hall on Facebook where I took questions from West Michigan Residents on immigration, ObamaCare, ISIS, Dodd-Frank, fed reform, Planned Parenthood and more. If you couldn't join the town hall this afternoon, the full video is below.
Posted by Rep. Bill Huizenga on Monday, December 28, 2015 

  
Be sure to ""like"" Rep. Huizenga on Facebookto ensure you receivea notification for the Congressman's next ""FacebookLive"" Event.   
    
  
  
  
    
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http://luetkemeyer.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398664,Luetkemeyer Offers Resources for Mo. Residents Due to Widespread Flooding,2015-12-29,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,MO,Blaine Luetkemeyer,L000569,luetkemeyer.house.gov,,,legacy,"U.S. Rep. Blaine Luetkemeyer (MO-03) issued the following release in response to the high level of rainfall that has occurred over the last few days in areas of the 3rd District. 
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      U.S. Rep. Blaine Luetkemeyer (MO-03) issued the following release in response to the high level of rainfall that has occurred over the last few days in areas of the 3rd District. 
With Missouri under a state of emergency due to the heavy rain and flooding throughout much of the state, I wanted to ensure that individuals have the access to information they may need. I have listed website links to various agencies or departments so individuals can find any necessary information they are looking for in dealing with the aftermath of the heavy rainfall. There are now clearer days in the forecast but roads are still flooded over so please stay safe on the roads over the next few days.
Resources
General Flood Readiness Information: http://www.ready.gov/floods
Road Closures from MoDot: http://traveler.modot.org/map/
Missouri State Emergency Management: http://sema.dps.mo.gov/plan_and_prepare/flooding.php
St. Louis Corps of Army Engineers (Mississippi River): http://www.mvs.usace.army.mil/
National Weather Service (Missouri Basin River Forecast Center): http://www.weather.gov/mbrfc/",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/diaz-balart-calls-for-medical-care-and-immediate-release-of-vladimir,Diaz-Balart Calls for Medical Care and Immediate Release of Vladimir Morera Bacallao,2015-12-29,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,FL,Mario Diaz-Balart,D000600,mariodiazbalart.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON  Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (R-FL) released the following statement regarding incarcerated Cuban pro-democracy activist Vladimir Morera Bacallao. ""Vladimir Morera Bacallao is in intensive care after being transferred from his prison cell where he has been on hunger strike since October 9, 2015. Reports indicate that he is gravely ill. ""Morera Bacallao was released as part of the Obama-Castro deal announced on December 17, 2014. However, he was re-arrested in April 2015 for placing a sign outside his home during the Castro regime's sham 'elections' that said, 'I vote for my freedom and not in an election where I cannot choose my president.' Last month, the Castro regime gave Morera Bacallao a new four-year prison sentence for the 'crime' of expressing his political opinion. ""During the Obama administration, activists Orlando Zapata Tamayo and Wilman Villar Mendoza died under uncannily similar circumstances. Activists Laura Pollan and Oswaldo Paya also perished at the hands of Castros' thugs during this administration. ""Morera Bacallao has risked everything for the basic right to have a voice in his government. His unjustifiable imprisonment and mistreatment are further indictments of the brutal malevolence of the Castro regime, and the utter failure of Obama's appeasement of Cuba's dictators. I urge human rights organizations and the Obama administration to bring attention to the urgent case of Vladimir Morera Bacallao, and to demand that he receive immediate medical attention. We must not remain silent while another courageous activist hovers on the brink of death.""
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://renacci.house.gov/index.cfm/weekly-column?ContentRecord_id=EF6076AA-619D-437B-A685-D428CF7610B6,Giving thanks for our freedoms as we enter a New Year,2015-12-29,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,OH,Jim Renacci,R000586,renacci.house.gov,,,legacy,"As we begin the New Year and reflect on 2015, let us pause and give thanks for the rights and freedoms we enjoy in this country. In America, we have the ability to turn dreams into realities through hard work and innovation. We owe these privileges to the men and women who served, and are currently serving, to protect the freedoms that are the bedrock of our country. As a member of Congress, it is my duty to ensure that those who choose to dedicate their lives defending our freedoms receive the support they deserve.
For these reasons, I was proud to support the passage of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) earlier this year. TheNDAA fully funds the resources needed for our troops, but also cuts some unnecessary spending. One of the most important actions Congress can take is to pass a reform-centered NDAA to ensure our service members have the tools necessary to confront todays challenges and keep Americans safe. The NDAA also means jobs right here in the 16thDistrict of Ohio. For instance, one small employee-owned business will continue to manufacture radio towers vital for our ally Israels Iron Dome missile defense system.
In addition to the NDAA, the Omnibus  which was recently signed into law  also includes provisions to strengthen our national defense, and restore funding forour men and women in uniform. One provision included will provide the necessary funding forthe construction and repair of facilities at both active and reserve military installations. Another provision will raise the pay for military personnel, and capital for the Department of Homeland Security. Finally, the House-passed bill to strengthen our Visa Waiver Program and tighten the security requirements under the program is also included in the Omnibus. Specifically, this legislation would deny Visa Waiver Program status to individuals who have recently travelled to terrorist hotspots.
It is important to pause and show our gratitude for those who keep us safe and provide us the freedoms to pursue new opportunities in 2016. Thank you to our retired and current service men and women, and I wish you and your loved ones a happy new year.
If you need any additional information, please visit my website atrenacci.house.govor call my Washington office:202-225-3876, Wadsworth office:330-334-0040, or Parma office:440-882-6779. If you have a concern about your VA claim, please contact my Wadsworth office and I will inquire about your claim. I also encourage you to subscribe to myFacebook,Twitter,Instagram, andYouTubepages to get updates on my work in Washington and the 16th District.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://tipton.house.gov/press-release/3rd-district-students-receive-us-service-academy-nominations,3rd District Students Receive U.S. Service Academy Nominations,2015-12-29,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,CO,Scott Tipton,T000470,tipton.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTONCongressman Scott Tipton (CO-03) announced that 24 students from Colorados 3rd Congressional District have received a nomination from his office to attend U.S. Service Academies in 2016. The students were selected based on meeting or exceeding the stringent requirements of the respective academy and of Tiptons office, which uses a merit-based, competitive nomination process. Students who applied were required to submit an essay, test scores, an application, letters of recommendation, transcripts, and complete a panel interview in order to be considered.
 
	It takes hard work, intelligence and determination to meet the high entrance standards of our nations Service Academies, traits that are critical for success as a leader in the Armed Forces. To earn a nomination, these students have met or exceeded these high standards and demonstrated a true passion to serve our country, said Tipton. On behalf of the 3rd Congressional District I commend these exceptional students for their selflessness and dedication, and wish them well in what will no doubt be a very bright future.
 
Tipton called to personally notify each student of the nomination(s) last week.
Congressman Tiptons Academy Nominations for Colorados 3rd Congressional District: 
U.S. Air Force Academy
 *Alexandre Basagoita, Monte Vista, Sargent HS, currently attending Adams State University
	Kobi Betts, Pueblo, Pueblo Central HS
	*Kyle Cox, Montrose, Montrose HS
	Jonathan Hints, Pueblo, Pueblo West HS, graduated 2012, currently active duty AF
	Lydia Knutson, Cedaredge, Cedaredge HS
	Jessica Tuttle, Glenwood Springs, Glenwood Springs HS
	Natasha Weimer, Grand Junction, currently attending Northwestern Prep School
	Noah Smith, Pueblo, Pueblo South HS
	*Kamren McKee, Fruita, Fruita Monument HS
	Mary Hood, Alamosa, Sargent HS
 U.S. Naval Academy
 *Connor Frasier, Steamboat Springs, Steamboat Springs HS
	Samuel Samberson, Pueblo West, Pueblo West HS
	Jacob Crouch, Steamboat Springs, Steamboat Springs HS
	Nolan Butcher, Grand Junction, Hill School (boarding school in Pennsylvania)
	*Kyle Cox, Montrose, Montrose HS
	Michael Tucker, Silt, Coal Ridge HS
	*Aileen Ojeda, Pueblo, Centennial HS
	Joshua Hardin, Grand Junction, Hotchkiss HS Grad 2013, currently attending Colorado Mesa University
	Morgan Wright, Silverton, Ouray HS
	*Frankie Turner, Durango, Bayfield HS
 West Point
 *Alexandre Basagoita, Monte Vista, Sargent HS, currently attending Adams State University
	Allyson Ludewig, Gypsum, Eagle Valley HS
	*Aileen Ojeda, Pueblo, Centennial HS
	Carter Ortiz, Pueblo, Pueblo West HS
	*Kamren McKee, Fruita, Fruita Monument HS
	*Connor Frasier, Steamboat Springs, Steamboat Springs HS
	*Frankie Turner, Durango, Bayfield HS
	Silas Luke Stobbe, Grand Junction, Mesa Valley Community School
 U.S. Merchant Marine Academy
 Nathaniel Todd, Lewis, Life Independent School
	Kaleb Todd, Lewis, Life Independent School
 *Received nominations to multiple Service Academies
Students who are residents of Colorados 3rd Congressional District and are considering applying to a U.S. Service Academy can find more information on the nomination process at: https://tipton.house.gov/serving-you/military-academy-nominations
Nominations from previous years can be found here: 2012, 2013, 2014, and 2015.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://upton.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398562,Obama signs into law Uptons bill banning microbeads,2015-12-29,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,MI,Fred Upton,U000031,upton.house.gov,,,legacy,"President Barack Obama signed into law Monday a bill championed by southwest Michigan Congressman Fred Upton to phase out the production and sale of tiny bits of plastic called microbeads.
The Senate on Dec. 18 passed the bill by voice vote, and the House passed it earlier this month. The legislation was co-sponsored by Reps. Fred Upton, the St. Joseph Republican who heads the House Energy and Commerce Committee, and Frank Pallone, D-New Jersey.
Its a banner day for Lake Michigan and the Great Lakes -- we now have a bipartisan law on the books to cleanse dirty microbeads from all our nations waters, Upton said in a Monday statement. Microbeads may be tiny plastic, but they are wreaking big time havoc in our waters. We came together, Republicans and Democrats, and got the job done.
The Microbead-Free Waters Act would ban the manufacture of microbeads starting in July 2017, followed by a ban on manufacturing over-the-counter drugs and on sales of cosmetics with microbeads to start in July 2018. A ban on sales of over-the-counter drugs containing microbeads would begin July 2019.
The synthetic particles have been found in relatively high concentrations in the Great Lakes where they absorb pollutants, raising concern over their consumption by fish and other wildlife that could eventually enter the food chain.
The little pieces of plastic are often used as abrasive exfoliants in toothpastes and facial cleansers, ending up in waterways after they rinse down the drain and flow through the filtration systems at wastewater treatment plants.
At least nine states and numerous local jurisdictions already have bans on microbeads in personal-care products, creating a patchwork of differing laws on the synthetic particles.
Uptons bill on microbeads was one of several matters that Michigans Republican and Democratic leaders in Congress agreed they would push in a common agenda to maximize Michigans clout on Capitol Hill  a development that political experts declared was significant among the states. In May, Democratic Sens. Stabenow of Lansing and Gary Peters of Bloomfield Township introduced companion legislation to Uptons bill to ban the sale of synthetic plastic microbeads used in facial cleansers.
At a time when gaining widespread bipartisan consensus is anything but easy, I am especially glad my bill to cut down on unnecessary pollution and protect our waterways is finally law, said Pallone, the ranking member of the Energy and Commerce Committee and the bills co-sponsor.
Dan Wyant, director of the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, has called the rate of microplastic particles detected in Lakes Erie, Huron and Superior quite concerning at 43,000 per square kilometer because of their potential to enter the food stream. The rate was nearly 10 times higher in samples collected in Lake Erie downstream of two major Ohio cities, Wyant added.
Microbeads is a clear issue. It's a clear threat. And there's a clear, simple answer, and we support the phaseout of microbeads and a federal approach, he said in testimony before Upton's committee.
Via the Detroit News.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.cornyn.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?p=NewsReleases&ContentRecord_id=fe0df18f-629b-4ac5-9a86-f07f6cc5c5d1,"Cornyn Op-Ed: In 2015, New Senate Majority Delivered For The Nation",2015-12-29,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC Office  
                    517 Hart Senate Office Bldg.  
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http://www.hoeven.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ContentRecord_id=c1fa06b7-4190-45e9-bdd6-527bf391b571,"Hoeven: Senate Passes Measure to Update FAA Medical Certification, Protect Pilots' Due Process Rights",2015-12-29,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.29.15
			 Hoeven: Senate Passes Measure to Update FAA Medical Certification, Protect Pilots' Due Process Rights  
			
				
	
	
	
	
	 
	
	
			
		
	
	
	
		
		
		
		
		
		
		
		
		
		
		
		
			
		
        
				 Bill Supports General Aviation, Allows More Qualified Pilots to Continue Flying
			
			 WASHINGTON  Senator John Hoeven today announced that the Senate has passed the Pilots Bill of Rights II, a measure he cosponsored that updates the Federal Aviation Administrations (FAA) medical certification for most general aviation pilots, providing a safe and transparent process to help ensure more healthy, qualified and trained pilots can fly. The bill expands the 3rd class medical exemption for recreational pilots flying light sport aircraft and broadens the protections provided in the original Pilots Bill of Rights signed into law in 2012, which Hoeven also cosponsored.
General aviation is an important part of North Dakotas transportation infrastructure and economy, providing vital services across industries, Hoeven said. The FAAs current medical standards are outdated, costly to comply with, prevent healthy and skilled pilots from flying and do little to ensure the safe operation of general aviation aircraft. Our bill updates the FAAs medical exemption process to reflect real-world health care needs and risks, which will better serve our pilots, empower them to seek treatment for their medical conditions and enhance public safety.
The Pilots Bill of Rights II:
 
Expands the existing FAA exemption for a 3rd class medical certificate to include general aviation aircraft up to 6,000 pounds and raises altitude up to 18,000 feet.
Maintains safe aircraft operations by requiring an individual to take an online medical education course, complete the FAA medical evaluation process one time and maintain ongoing medical care, while also providing a checklist to guide discussion between pilots and their physicians during health examinations and maintaining the special issuance process for pilots diagnosed with mental health disorders, neurological disorders or cardiovascular conditions.
Expands the original Pilots Bill of Rights by explicitly stating that pilots facing investigation by the FAA may appeal to a district court and clarifies who bears the burden of proof.
Expedites updates to the FAAs Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) program to ensure pilots receive and can access important flight safety information in a timely and relevant manner.
 
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https://abraham.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/traffic-restricted-levee-abraham-gets-view-air,Traffic restricted on levee; Abraham gets view from air,2015-12-29,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,LA,Ralph Abraham,A000374,abraham.house.gov,,,legacy,"5th District U.S. Rep. Ralph Abraham, R-Alto, got a bird's-eye view of the rising river Tuesdayin a helicopter tour with Col. John Cross, commander of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' Vicksburg District.
""I'm very much concerned,"" Abraham said. ""From what I saw today there are many camps and houses in peril on the river side of the levee.""
Abraham expressed confidence in the corps' ability, citing its work during the Great Flood of 2011 when the Mississippi reached an all-time high of 57.1 feet at Vicksburg.
To read the full story, click here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://frelinghuysen.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=2&itemid=1144,Frelinghuysen marks the Centennial of the National Park Service,2015-12-29,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,NJ,Rodney Frelinghuysen,F000372,frelinghuysen.house.gov,,,legacy,"On August 25, 2016, the National Park Service will turn 100 years old!   In addition to some of the local sites mentioned below, the National Park Foundation and the National Park Service initiated the Find Your Park movement to encourage people to enjoy and support America's national parks. For more information, visit here:http://findyourpark.com/.   New Jersey's 11th Congressional District:  Morristown National Historical Park   New Jerseys 11thdistrict is fortunate to be the home of our nations oldest and most historic National Park, Morristown National Historical Park. Working with the Park Service and the Washington Association, Congressman Frelinghuysen has been leading the effort to secure dollars for the Park and to help renovate the museum. For more information on Morristown National Historical Park, please visit:http://www.nps.gov/morr/index.htm.  Thomas Edison National Historical Park  Located in West Orange, Thomas Edison National Historical Park includes Edisons former home and laboratory. The museum collection at the Park, the largest single body of Edison-related material, is estimated to number over 300,000 items, while the archives contain approximately five million documents.   For more information, visit their webpage:http://www.nps.gov/edis/index.htm.   The Crossroads of the American Revolution   Two hundred and thirty years ago New Jersey was at the crossroads of America's Revolutionary War. Today, there are nearly 300 sites in New Jersey with direct ties to the American Revolution. Among the landmarks areWashingtons Headquarters inMorristown, Jockey Hollow, the Old Trenton Barracks,the Dey Mansion inWayne,the Princeton, Monmouth, and Red Bank battlefields, andthe Great Falls of the Passaic. Congressman Frelinghuysen introduced H.R. 87, legislation to recognize the critical role our state played in the American Revolution. This legislation was included in the National Heritage Areas Act of 2005, which was signed into law on October 12, 2006. The Crossroads of the American Revolution National Heritage Area Act will raise the profile of New Jersey's historical importance.  For more information regarding the Crossroads of the American Revolution National Heritage Area, please visitwww.revolutionarynj.org/.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://hurd.house.gov/media-center/hurd-hill/hurd-hill-representing-you,Hurd on the Hill: Representing You,2015-12-29,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,TX,Will Hurd,H001073,hurd.house.gov,,,legacy,"Almost 12 months ago, I started a new job  representing you in Washington. Being an effective leader in D.C. is not easy, especially when you are battling a bureaucracy that is slow and inefficient. But when you work smarter and harder, and surround yourself with a dedicated team, it is amazing what can be accomplished.
The last time a representative from the 23rd Congressional District of Texas had legislation signed into law was 2007 -- a bill that renamed a post office. In 2015, sixty-seven bills became law and two of those are mine. Two additional bills that I introduced were also signed into law when they were added to other pieces of legislation. That means four of my bills have been signed into law, and my fifth one, The State and Local Cyber Protection Act, is on track to be sent to the Presidents desk in the New Year.
My bills have a direct impact on the 23rd Congressional District by protecting the paychecks of our brave Border Patrol Agents, giving small businesses and local governments greater access to resources for cyber protection, allowing Texas to invest in border infrastructure for trade and commerce, and keeping hackers out of our governments digital infrastructure.
However, not everything can be accomplished through introducing legislation. Sometimes working with my colleagues, state and federal agency heads, and local leaders is what makes something happen in our district. 
 Laughlin Air Force Base in Del Rio, received funding for a much-need security gate update and is on track to finally be able to fix their airfield runways so that a couple of inches of rain no longer brings pilot training to a halt.
	Socorro Road, stretching from Ysleta to San Elizario and Highway 132 & 173 in Devine are seeing more regular maintenance because of a call to the Texas Department of Transportation.
	The City of Alpine is moving forward to remediate wastewater infrastructure because of a call to TCEQ.
	The City of Hondo broke ground on a new vocational training facility due to a grant they received from the Economic Development Administration after receiving a letter from our office.
	San Antonio will soon boast a new Federal Courthouse and a National Guard Cyber Unit.
 Fighting for you in Washington is a job I take seriously. 
Beyond legislation and projects, directly helping constituents battle the bureaucracy is a huge focus for our office. We have opened over 560 cases so far this year for people across the district to advocate on their behalf to agencies such as the VA, Social Security, Medicare, the State Department, Department of Defense, and Customs and Border Protection. Not everyone has the time and resources to cut through the red tape and that is why we are here to help. If you need assistance, please contact us today through the website  hurd.house.gov/services/help-with-a-federal-agency
We have responded to over 76,000 letters, emails and voicemails from constituents with questions about legislation. And we have proactively reached out with additional information and updates through eNewsletters, mail and frequently scheduled telephone town halls. We have also held more than 200 meetings across the district, having at least one in every one of the 29 counties I represent. You can join in by emailing me at hurd.house.gov/contact or signing up for my eNewsletter at hurd.house.gov/contact/newsletter. I want to hear from you!
Thank you all for the privilege of being your representative in Washington, DC. It is not just my title; it is my job and one that I am humbled to do each day. It has been an amazing first year representing everyone in the 23rd Congressional District of Texas and I look forward to many more.
Wishing all of you a Prosperous and Happy New Year!
Hurd on the Hill: Representndote a ti
Es mi trabajo, y es mi honor
Hace doce meses, empec mi nuevo empleo  representndolos en Washington. Ser un lder efectivo en D.C. no es nada fcil, especialmente cuando enfrentas una burocracia que es lento e ineficiente. Pero cuando una trabaja ms duro y ms inteligentemente, y te rodeas con un equipo dedicado, es increble todo lo que uno puede lograr.
La ltima vez que un representante del Distrito Congresional 23 de Texas tuvo una legislacin firmado a ley era en el 2007  un proyecto de ley que renombro una oficina postal. En el 2015, sesenta y siete proyectos de ley fueron firmados a ley por el Presidente y dos de esos eran mos. Dos proyecto de leyes adicionales que yo introduje tambin fueron firmados a ley cuando fueron agregados a otras piezas de legislacin. Eso significa que cuatro de mis proyectos de ley fueron firmados a ley, y mi quinto, La Acta de Proteccin Ciberntica Local y Estatal, est en rumbo para el escritorio del Presidente para el ao nuevo.
Mis proyectos de ley impactan directamente al Distrito Congresional 23 al proteger los cheques de nuestros valientes agentes de la Patrulla Fronteriza, ofrecindoles a los negocios pequeos y a los gobiernos locales acceso a recursos para proteccin ciberntica, permitiendo que Texas invierta en la infraestructura fronteriza para intercambios y comercio, y manteniendo a los piratas informticos fuera de nuestra infraestructura digital del gobierno.
Sin embargo, no todo puede ser cumplido por medio de legislacin. A veces el trabajar con mis colegas, jefes de agencia en el nivel estatal y federal, y nuestros encargados locales es lo que realmente hace que cosas sucedan en nuestro distrito.
 La Base de la Fuerza Area Laughlin, recibi fondos para una muy necesitada actualizacin de una puerta de seguridad y est en camino para poder finalmente reparar sus pistas aerdromos para que unas pulgadas de lluvia ya no detenga el entrenamiento para pilotos.
	Socorro Road, que estira de Ysleta a San Elizario y Highway 132 y 173 en Devine estn recibiendo con ms frecuencia mantenimiento regular por una llamada hecha al Departamento de Transportacin de Texas.
	La ciudad de Alpine est avanzando en la rehabilitacin de la infraestructura de las aguas residuales por una llamada hecha al TCEQ.
	La cuidad de Hondo abri un nuevo centro de entrenamiento vocacional por un subsidio recibido por la administracin de desarrollo econmico despus de recibir una carta de nuestra oficina.
	San Antonio tendr muy pronto una nueva Corte Federal y una Unidad Ciberntica De la Guardia Nacional.
 Peleando por usted en Washington es un trabajo que tomo en serio.
Ms all de la legislacin y proyectos, el ayudar a constituyentes directamente batallar contra la burocracia es un gran enfoque de nuestra oficina. Hemos abierto ms de 560 casos hasta la fecha para personas a lo largo del distrito para abogar de su parte a agencias como l VA, Seguro Social, Medicare, el Departamento del Estado, el Departamento de Defensa, y la Aduana y Proteccin Fronteriza. No todos tienen el tiempo o los recursos para luchar en contra la burocracia, y es por eso que estamos aqu para ayudar. Si necesitan asistencia, por favor contctenos hoy por medio del sitio web  hurd.house.gov/services/help-with-a-federal-agency
Hemos respondido a ms de 76,000 letras, correo electrnico y correo de voz de constituyentes con preguntas sobre legislaciones. Tambin hemos comunicado activamente, proveyendo informacin adicional y mandando actualizaciones por medio de boletn electrnico, correo, y llamadas programadas al distrito. Hemos sostenido ms de 200 reuniones a lo largo del distrito, realizando al menos uno en cada de los 29 condados que represento. Pueden aadirse mandndome un correo electrnico a Hurd.house.gov/contact o suscribindose a mi boletn electrnico a Hurd.house.gov/contact/newsletter. Quiero escuchar de ti!
Gracias a todos ustedes por el privilegio de ser su representante en Washington, D.C. No es solo mi ttulo; es mi trabajo y uno que me siento honrado desempear cada da. Ha sido un ao asombroso representando a todos en el distrito Congresional 23 de Texas y espero con ansiedad representar a muchos ms.
Desendoles a todos un prspero Ao Nuevo!",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://lynnjenkins.house.gov/press-releases/administration-to-release-more-gtmo-detainees-in-january/,Administration To Release More GTMO Detainees In January,2015-12-29,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,KS,Lynn Jenkins,J000290,lynnjenkins.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – According to the Associated Press, the Administration will begin releasing the first of seventeen Guantanamo Bay (GTMO) detainees next week. Additionally, the article states that “the administration is continuing to pursue plans to find an alternate U.S.-based facility.” Upon hearing the news, Congresswoman Lynn Jenkins (KS-02) released the following statement:  “Once again, the Administration refuses to listen to Kansans and the American people. At my recent town hall in Leavenworth, Leavenworth County residents voiced their unanimous concerns and frustrations with the President’s plan to close the Guantanamo Bay detention center and transfer terrorists to the United States – possibly to the U.S. Disciplinary Barracks at Fort Leavenworth. It’s time for the President to drop this reckless campaign promise and instead focus on strengthening our national security.”  Items To Note:  Pentagon assessing Fort Leavenworth as possible site for Guantanamo transfers.   (Lubold, Gordon, The Wall Street Journal: Pentagon Assessing Fort Leavenworth as Possible Site for Guantanamo Transfers, 08/14/15)  Congresswoman Jenkins holds special town hall in Leavenworth on GTMO prisoner.   http://jenkins.house.gov/press-releases/jenkins-pompeo-host-special-town-hall-on-gtmo-prisoner-transfer/  Congresswoman Jenkins and Leavenworth May write editorial explaining their bipartisan opposition to the President’s plan to close GTMO.   http://journal.ijreview.com/2015/12/250687-why-we-dont-want-guantanamo-in-our-backyard/  President Obama signs NDAA barring transfer of GTMO detainees.   http://jenkins.house.gov/press-releases/president-obama-signs-ndaa-barring-transfer-of-gtmo-detainees1/  President Obama’s plan to close GTMO would cost as much as $600 million.   http://jenkins.house.gov/press-releases/jenkins-statement-on-pentagons-plan-to-close-guantanamo-bay-detention-center/",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/content/cornyn-op-ed-2015-new-senate-majority-delivered-nation,"Cornyn Op-Ed: In 2015, New Senate Majority Delivered For The Nation",2015-12-29,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) published the following op-ed on FoxNews.com recapping the Senate’s accomplishments in the first year of the new Republican Majority:
In 2015, New Senate Majority Delivered For The Nation
FoxNews.com
U.S. Senator John Cornyn
December 29, 2015
http://www.foxnews.com/opinion/2015/12/28/sen-john-cornyn-in-2015-new-senate-majority-delivered-for-nation.html
Congress is often characterized as a place of partisan bickering and gridlock—where debate and partisan rancor is widespread, but little is actually accomplished. Too often, this assessment has proven accurate. But last fall, the American people decided to change that, sending a Republican majority to the U.S. Senate. Since January, and under Republican leadership, the Senate has delivered on our promise to pass legislation to help American families, grow our economy, and keep us safe.
At the beginning of the 114th Congress, I introduced the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act—legislation aimed at defeating the scourge of human trafficking in this country. Human trafficking is a horrendous practice that, tragically, can be found in every state. Fortunately, members in both parties, and in both Chambers, understood the great need to urgently fight this reprehensible practice.
Legislators from across the political spectrum united under a common cause: to help victims of modern-day slavery recover and rebuild their lives. In the spring, the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act passed with 99 votes in the Senate, and paved the way for these brave survivors—some young children—to find a path to healing. It’s now the law of the land.
Congress also tackled major issues concerning our national security. This fall, both Chambers overwhelmingly passed the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The NDAA is integral to ensuring that our military is resourced, trained and ready for action when called upon.
And in the wake of several serious security breaches of federal government computer servers over the summer—and the brazen theft of the personal information of millions of Americans—the clear need for robust cyber security legislation became even more apparent. So, the Senate passed the Cyber Information Sharing Act to give the public and private sectors the tools to act more nimbly when attacks are detected.
We’ve also passed legislation to grow our economy not just for today, but for years down the road. In June, Congress passed Trade Promotion Authority (TPA) legislation. TPA is a blueprint for pending and future trade negotiations—one that ensures that American farmers, ranchers, and manufacturers get the best deal possible. By setting the ground rules on agreements with countries in Asia, Latin America, and Europe, TPA opens doors of opportunity to our country’s businesses around the world, and is essential to growing our economy.
But perhaps the most significant achievement was confronting entrenched policy problems that proved too divisive or complicated to tackle in the past.
In April, Congress came together to bring about much-needed reform to the payment system for doctors who treat Medicare patients. The legislation preserved seniors’ access to care, and ended years of uncertainty for physicians.
Congress also passed the first significant education reform since 2001. The Every Student Succeeds Act ensures that parents, teachers, and local school boards will hold the reins to their children’s education, not the federal government.
And for the first time in more than a decade, Congress passed a multi-year transportation bill—the result of hard work across party lines over the course of this year. Passage of this bill marked an end to years of short-term extensions, and will allow states the freedom and flexibility to plan for and deliver major transportation and infrastructure projects across the country. This will help make our nation’s transportation system safer and more efficient, and lays the groundwork for even greater economic growth.
Last fall, Republicans set the bar high for the new Senate majority. We pledged to get back to work, and to create and pass substantive pieces of legislation. We did that, and proved that inaction didn’t have to be the norm. Effective governance and principled leadership doesn’t shy away from confronting long-standing, seemingly intractable policy problems head-on.
As we look to the year ahead, our work is far from over. But by keeping the American people in the drivers’ seat, we will continue to deliver real solutions for our country.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-senate-passes-measure-to-update-faa-medical-certification-protect-pilots-due-process-rights,"Hoeven: Senate Passes Measure to Update FAA Medical Certification, Protect Pilots' Due Process Rights",2015-12-29,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.29.15
			 Hoeven: Senate Passes Measure to Update FAA Medical Certification, Protect Pilots' Due Process Rights  
			
				
	
	
	
	
	 
	
	
			
		
	
	
	
		
		
		
		
		
		
		
		
		
		
		
		
			
		
        
				 Bill Supports General Aviation, Allows More Qualified Pilots to Continue Flying
			
			 WASHINGTON  Senator John Hoeven today announced that the Senate has passed the Pilot's Bill of Rights II, a measure he cosponsored that updates the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) medical certification for most general aviation pilots, providing a safe and transparent process to help ensure more healthy, qualified and trained pilots can fly. The bill expands the 3rd class medical exemption for recreational pilots flying light sport aircraft and broadens the protections provided in the original Pilot's Bill of Rights signed into law in 2012, which Hoeven also cosponsored.
General aviation is an important part of North Dakota's transportation infrastructure and economy, providing vital services across industries, Hoeven said. The FAA's current medical standards are outdated, costly to comply with, prevent healthy and skilled pilots from flying and do little to ensure the safe operation of general aviation aircraft. Our bill updates the FAA's medical exemption process to reflect real-world health care needs and risks, which will better serve our pilots, empower them to seek treatment for their medical conditions and enhance public safety.
The Pilot's Bill of Rights II:
 
Expands the existing FAA exemption for a 3rd class medical certificate to include general aviation aircraft up to 6,000 pounds and raises altitude up to 18,000 feet.
Maintains safe aircraft operations by requiring an individual to take an online medical education course, complete the FAA medical evaluation process one time and maintain ongoing medical care, while also providing a checklist to guide discussion between pilots and their physicians during health examinations and maintaining the special issuance process for pilots diagnosed with mental health disorders, neurological disorders or cardiovascular conditions.
Expands the original Pilot's Bill of Rights by explicitly stating that pilots facing investigation by the FAA may appeal to a district court and clarifies who bears the burden of proof.
Expedites updates to the FAA's Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) program to ensure pilots receive and can access important flight safety information in a timely and relevant manner.
 
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https://www.paul.senate.gov/news/sen-rand-paul-holds-town-hall-paducah-performing-free-eye-surgeries,Sen. Rand Paul Holds Town Hall in Paducah Before Performing Free Eye Surgeries,2015-12-29,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,KY,Rand Paul,P000603,www.paul.senate.gov,,,legacy,"PADUCAH, KY  Today, U.S. Senator Rand Paul held a Town Hall in Paducah, Kentucky at the Paducah Chamber of Commerce Center. Before heading to the Ambulatory Surgery Center in Paducah to perform pro bono eye surgeries, Sen. Paul spoke with Kentuckians in attendance and took questions from the audience. Questions ranged from local issues to immigration to national defense.    Following the Town Hall, Sen. Paul performed pro bono eye surgeries with Dr. Barbara Bowers. Sen. Paul regularly performs free eye surgeries for charity, and since being elected to the Senate in 2010, he has continued to use his skills to help those in need.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.perdue.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-david-perdue-2015-a-year-in-photos,Senator David Perdue: 2015 A Year in Photos,2015-12-29,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,GA,David Perdue,P000612,www.perdue.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Skip to primary navigation Skip to content
		
		
	
	  
	    
	      
	      
	        
	       	
				
				
					
						
						
						
						
						
							
							
							
							
						
						
							
								
							
							
							
								
							
								
							
							
						
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https://zeldin.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/following-his-return-iraq-rep-zeldin-releases-statement-iraqi-military,"Following His Return from Iraq, Rep. Zeldin Releases Statement on Iraqi Military Recapturing Ramadi",2015-12-29,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,NY,Lee Zeldin,Z000017,zeldin.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Lee Zeldin (R, C  NY 1), Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, who just returned from a Christmas time Congressional Delegation (CODEL) visit to Iraq and Kuwait, released the following statement after the Iraqi military recaptured Ramadi from ISIS:
Recapturing Ramadi is a key strategic victory for Iraq and coalition forces. For Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi, U.S. Army Lieutenant General Sean McFarland, the Iraqi Counter Terrorism Service, and all others who played critical roles in this effort, this is a very positive development not just for Iraqi security, but for the security of the free world in the fight against ISIS. 
In Iraq, the United States and coalition partners clearly have a plan and that plan is moving in the right direction. Since the May 19th fall of Ramadi, there has been no loss of ground to ISIS for more than 48 hours. It is very tenuous though and with so much ground still to recapture, the reality remains that this could all pivot in the opposite direction in the blink of an eye. An intense battle for Mosul still awaits.
For ISIS, which has linked its efforts to establishing a caliphate, holding ground and expanding further is critical. That is a key reason why their loss of Ramadi is important. There is a possibility that within two to five years, the Iraqis will recapture all land in their country currently held by ISIS. That is far from certain, but for the first time in a long time, many are at least feeling momentum in the right direction.
Syria and Libya are a completely different story where there seems to be no plan to defeat ISIS, only to take out some of the bad guys and disrupt some of their command and control. That situation I fear is likely to get worse before it gets better and is a race against the clock. The best humanitarian victory that can be delivered for the Syrians is to wipe ISIS off the face of the earth and for the rest of the civil war to end. It is difficult to develop a plan for a post-Assad Syria if all of the people needed to run the country afterwards flee now with almost no possibility they will move back later. There is only so much patience before those capable of rebuilding Syria who still remain will also flee the country. This is an urgent crisis without a plan.
The United States has an important role to play in the mission to defeat ISIS, whether we want to or not. It is clear that in Iraq at least the strategy has evolved recently into one that is using more boots on the ground while approaching operations responsibly in a way to greatly mitigate the potential loss of American service members. There are still ways to improve the mission from intelligence collection to information operations (IO). On the IO front, despite all of the sacrifice made by the United States in Iraq, there is little to no gratitude for our efforts. We should consider additional ways to improve the message that is being disseminated to civilians so that they better understand history and current reality rather than just the version the Iranians are providing with their media propaganda throughout Iraq.
The Iran backing of Shia militia is a sustained issue. Right now, they are not targeting Americans, but in the past, they have killed and wounded U.S. service members and the threat of future violence is an impediment for mission accomplishment. There is a direct connection to the recently negotiated Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) between the P5+1. The leverage that brought the Iranians to the table was the sanctions relief and now those sanctions have been negotiated away without resolving so many other lingering issues such as state sponsored terrorism, efforts to overthrow foreign governments, illegal ballistic missile tests, and pledges of Death to America. America must come to the realization that we got played at the negotiating table and consider options to reconsider our unilateral concessions that negotiated away our leverage.
There are also major challenges still ahead for Prime Minister al-Abadi who appears to currently be leading better than his predecessor, former Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki. It is still uncertain whether Iraq has a stable future with the Kurds, Sunnis and Shia accepting the new form of government. Prime Minister al-Abadi seems to be working very hard to move the complex pieces in a direction where the coalition government would have its best chance for success. On the military front, the recapturing of Ramadi was a key victory for the Iraqi Counter Terrorism Service (CTS). The larger issue is the massive gap in readiness between CTS and the rest of the Iraqi Army, which lacks the will to defend the country. The CTS ranks need to grow without compromising quality in pursuit of quantity and/or the Iraqi Army needs to start showing up for work and shaping up to keep the nation secure.
Its a complex map in the Middle East with additional factors at play when you add in to the mix Turkey, Lebanon, Jordan, Israel, etc. As for Iraq specifically, the path forward is uncertain, but with victory in Ramadi, a plan that could potentially work, and momentum in the right direction, there is enough reason to not only praise a hard fought battle won, but to be a little more optimistic about the future. The strategy is evolving and victory no longer seems impossible.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://buchanan.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/buchanan-fights-save-florida-panther,Buchanan Fights to Save Florida Panther,2015-12-28,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,FL,Vern Buchanan,B001260,buchanan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Endangered Animal Needs a ""Safe Habitat"" To Survive  WASHINGTON U.S. Rep Vern Buchanan, R-FL, noting yet another panther death in southwest Florida, today called on the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to designate a critical habitat for the endangered animal. Wildlife officials said last week a 1-year-old Florida panther was killed by a vehicle, raising to 30 the number of automobile-related deaths in 2015. The Florida panther remains one of the most endangered mammals on earth, with fewer than 180 big cats alive today. The breeding population of Florida panthers is found only in the southern tip of the state. Each year, the Florida panther population continues to shrink in size as more big cats are hit and killed by cars because they lack a safe habitat, Buchanan said. Although these panthers are protected under the federal Endangered Species Act, they face extinction because they have no protected area to live and repopulate.  Earlier this month Buchanan and several other Florida congressmen sent a letter to President Obama requesting a safe habitat for the Florida panther. The letter highlighted the need for a safe environment that would preserve valuable environmental resources, such as wetlands, aquifer-recharge areas, drinking water supplies. We should not stand by and do nothing as yet another endangered species is wiped off the earth, Buchanan said. We dont get a second chance once a species becomes extinct. The panther was one of the original 14 mammals named to the endangered species list in 1967, but a critical habitat has never been established, even though one is required by the Endangered Species Act. Buchanan is a longtime advocate of the Endangered Species Act and has been recognized as a legislative leader by the U.S. Humane Society for his record on animal welfare issues.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://cole.house.gov/real-achievements,Real Achievements,2015-12-28,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,OK,Tom Cole,C001053,cole.house.gov,,,legacy,"Despite the commonly held opinion that this has been an unproductive Congress, I believe that this year lawmakers have proved that the federal government can function under regular order and responsibly get the work of the American people done. It is especially encouraging that, even in the era of divided government, there are a number of legislative achievements that can make all Americans rest assured that the work of the people, through their elected representatives, is indeed getting done.
Since this spring, lawmakers have been working on legislation to responsibly fund the government, and this year marked the first time since 2006 that all 12 spending bills were passed through the Appropriations Committee in both chambers. In the House of Representatives, six of those funding bills passed by bipartisan majority votes on the floor.
However, it wasnt until after a long negotiation between leaders in both chambers of Congress and in communication with the president that worry of another government shutdown was finally laid to rest. Guided by funding levels previously agreed to in the Bipartisan Budget Act and spending recommendations from the groundwork laid in the Appropriations subcommittees, the resulting omnibus legislation passed before Christmas represented an acceptable, albeit imperfect, compromise. Passed by a strong majority in Congress and signed by the president, it not only keeps the government open but it provides financial peace and much needed stability for a full fiscal year. It is important to note that more than 60 percent of the spending in the so-called omnibus bill went to fund the military and support our veterans.
During the same week that Congress passed vital legislation to fund the government, lawmakers also supported and the president signed into law a bill that permanently extends more than 20 temporary tax provisions. In addition to helping out individuals and job creators and boosting economic growth, the law also encourages comprehensive tax reform, reduces potential fraud and abuse within tax credit programs and seeks to further rein in the power of the IRS. This was a responsible, sensible measure than not only gives greater certainty to businesses as they make plans for investments and potential expansion, but also spares American taxpayers from burdensome and immediate tax increases. In the days ahead, it will certainly empower American job creators, benefit American workers and give the American economy the best chance to succeed.
Earlier this spring, I was pleased that Congress secured and the president signed into law some real entitlement reform through legislation that permanently replaced the Medicare Sustainable Growth Rate that had often short-changed Medicare reimbursements for doctors. Rather than relying on another temporary and expensive doc-fix solution, lawmakers offered an alternative to the broken payment model that properly compensates physicians and allows patients to receive the best possible care. The legislation also lowered Medicares unfunded liabilities by nearly $3 trillion.But even more recently, the budget deal passed in October included a provision that saved Social Security Disability payments from a nearly 20 percent cut and still lowered the long-term cost of the program.
Another landmark achievement during this Congress was passage of legislation to invest in our nations roads, bridges and rail. In fact, this Congress marked the first time since 2005 that a multi-year highway bill made it through both chambers and was signed into law by the president. At its core, the legislation showed commitment to a safe, efficient and well-maintained infrastructure. It will offer greater certainty to state and local projects, help move people and products and keep our economy strong and vibrant.
For the first time since 2002, Congress worked to improve the educational outlook for students across the entire nation through passage of legislation to reauthorize the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA). Specifically and most notably, the legislation that was signed into law by the president repealed No Child Left Behind (NCLB), which had excessively increased the federal governments role in K-12 education in every state in the country. Instead of an excessive federal role like that mandated by NCLB, the ESEA Conference Report ushers in an era that allows states and local education leaders to develop criteria and maintain responsibility for measuring the success of students and schools, address failures and fill learning gaps. It also prohibits a federal mandate requiring states to follow Common Core standards and protects private and home schools from needless federal interference.
This year, both chambers of Congress passed unquestionably bipartisan legislation to address human trafficking. In February, the House dedicated an entire week to consideration and passage of 12 bipartisan bills to improve enforcement of current law, ensure captors and those paying them are held accountable for their crimes, provide better recovery resources and encourage awareness training in communities. Later in the spring, both chambers passed the Justice for Victims of Human Trafficking Act of 2015, which was signed into law at the end of May.
Throughout the year, lawmakers acted in bipartisan cooperation to pass legislation that keeps the promises made to our veterans. The president signed into law the Clay Hunt Suicide Prevention for American Veterans Act and the Veterans Entrepreneurship Act of 2015. Other legislation passed included measures to reform mismanagement and address abuses at the Department of Veterans Affairs, improve veteran access to quality care, ensure veterans receive their earned benefits and help veterans succeed in the workforce following their military service.
In light of rising concerns about the threat posed by ISIL, lawmakers passed legislation directly in response to perceived holes in the system for bringing in refugees and weak spots in the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) for accepting visitors. Both bills were written and passed with the goal of strengthening the screening process and preventing terrorists from entering the United States under the ruse of a refugee or temporary visitor. I am pleased that the omnibus spending bill included the House-recommended changes to VWP in order to prevent acts of terrorism by visitors to the United States.
Finally, the House recently experienced a fresh change in leadership. After the retirement of Speaker John Boehner, I was very pleased that Paul Ryan was pressed into service by his colleagues and encouraged to take his place. Speaker Ryan is not only an accomplished legislator who has chaired two major committees and served as his party's nominee for Vice President, but he has also demonstrated the ability to effectively articulate a conservative vision that has the ability to attract support far beyond the Republican base.
While some of these things may not be earth-shaking achievements, they are certainly real achievements. Perhaps most importantly, its a testament that people of good will, even when they have sharp political differences, can still work together for the good of all Americans.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://foxx.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398788,Clemmons man inspires new legislation adopted by Congress,2015-12-28,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,NC,Virginia Foxx,F000450,foxx.house.gov,,,legacy,"It has taken nearly five years, but a Clemmons financial advisors idea to alter language on the federal IRA accounts was adopted by the U.S. House of Representatives last week.Shepherded through by U.S. Rep. Virginia Foxx, the bill streamlines SIMPLE IRA rollovers. Paul Johnson of Clemmons first brought it to her attention. Johnson said the process had given him some indication about how cumbersome the law making process can be. In some ways, I am glad bills take a while to get passed. I think my clients are going to be pleased that Congresswoman Foxx managed to get this bill passed. I faxed Senators Burr and Tillis last week, asking them to support the Senate version that included my bill, he said. With rare bipartisan support, the legislation corrects a technical limitation preventing the rollover of tax-deferred retirement funds into existing SIMPLE IRA accounts. When I received an email from Congresswoman Foxx policy advisor I was excited that my small idea for a bill was passed this month, said Johnson One of the best retirement plans for small businesses is the SIMPLE IRA. Owners can offer employees a way to save for retirement without all those fees in 401(k)s. My clients were frustrated when they could not roll their other retirement savings into their SIMPLE IRA and have just one account. I wondered if Congress could reverse the prohibition on employees to consolidate of other accounts into the SIMPLE IRA. My respect for Congresswoman Foxx led me to reach out to her. Five years ago, after her re-election in 2010, I sent a fax asking for a change in the law so that clients could consolidate. She met with me and replied that she would work on it. She and her staff spent over 35 hours researching the ERISA regulations, the history of the bill and wrote it. She had to get acceptance that it was revenue neutral and find a Democrat as a co-sponsor. She told me that she went to a Democrat from Massachusetts and asked for his co-sponsorship by saying I have a constituent who says this is important for his clients and I imagine there are advisors in your district with the same concerns. Thats all a lot of work! Congresswoman Foxx stayed with it when it couldnt get the light of day in the term of 2011 and 2012. I attempted to enlist help from my professional organization, NAIFA [National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors], but it was Foxx work that led to the co-sponsor. Ive been so happy for her work during the next five years. She kept her staff on it and even had to find a new co-sponsor when the previous one lost his re-election. She got the bill re-written two more times. She and her policy advisor stayed in touch with me over these five years. I know that many of my clients will be happy to roll their other retirement accounts into the SIMPLE IRA instead of just having a Rollover IRA. The language is part of the Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes Act, which provides permanent tax relief for American families, college students, charities, small businesses and enterprises on the forefront of innovation. Individuals should be able to consolidate their retirement funds in a way that best meets their needs, and Im pleased this legislation includes language that will simplify retirement planning and ensure a complex tax code does not prevent sensible financial planning decisions, said Foxx. This legislation is an important first step on the long road to ensuring our tax system works for Americans, not against them. SIMPLE IRAs face a 25 percent early withdrawal penalty during the first two years of their existence compared to 10 percent for other IRAs. In order to prevent account holders from unknowingly rolling their IRA funds into SIMPLE IRAs and being surprised by an increased early withdrawal penalty, current law prohibits rolling funds over into a SIMPLE IRA from other retirement accounts. However, SIMPLE IRAs have the same early withdrawal penalty as other IRAs after that initial two-year period, and consumers and financial planners have struggled with the rollover restrictions as they attempt to consolidate accounts. Foxxs language allows for rollovers into SIMPLE IRA accounts that have met the two-year threshold. By making a number of temporary tax provisions permanent, the Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes Act delivers certainty to American taxpayers and makes it easier for employers to plan ahead, hire new workers, grow their businesses and invest in their communities. http://www.clemmonscourier.net/2015/12/28/clemmons-man-inspires-new-legislation-adopted-by-congress/",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://peteking.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/rep-king-says-us-airstrikes-haven-t-weakened-isis,Rep. King says US airstrikes havent weakened ISIS,2015-12-28,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,NY,Peter King,K000210,peteking.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON  Rep. Peter King said the leader of ISIS is likely correct to conclude the barrage of US-led airstrikes have failed to weaken the terror group.
Unfortunately, overall, hes probably right, King (R-NY) told Fox News Sunday, referring to Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, the self-proclaimed ISIS leader who said the months-long air campaign had failed and ISIS was expanding and getting stronger.
After 15, 16 months of air attacks by the US, its had really minimal impact on ISIS, said King, a member of the House Homeland Security Committee.
He added: ISIS, I believe, is stronger than it was 16 months ago. They certainly have a larger land mass under their control. Theres no doubt ISIS is planning increased attacks against the US.
He also called for stepped up surveillance of the Muslim community and said federal authorities should be allowed to infiltrate mosques.
They can cry all they want, the fact is thats where the threat is coming from, King said.
We are kidding ourselves [with] blind political correctness.
Muslim American leaders gathered in Washington last week to condemn the terrorist attacks and pledged to do more to root out radicalization, educate the public and condemn anti-Muslim rhetoric, exacerbated by Donald Trumps plan to ban-Muslims from entering the US.
But King accused the Muslim community of more often than not failing to alert authorities of someone suspicious.
On Long Island, here, where youve had people in mosques who have spoken radically, who spoke of their intentions to be involved in jihad, it was never told to the police, King said.
There was one imam New York police confided in about a suspected bomb plot, King said, but he alerted the father of the subway bomber who was planning attacks in September 2009.
He was the one guy they trusted and he tipped off the enemy, King said. A guy who was coming to New York to kills thousands of New Yorkers.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://peteking.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/rep-peter-king-says-air-strikes-against-isis-are-not-enough-recommends,"Rep. Peter King says air strikes against ISIS are not enough, recommends monitoring Muslim communities",2015-12-28,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,NY,Peter King,K000210,peteking.house.gov,,,legacy,"What doesnt kill ISIS makes it stronger.
That was the message Sunday from Rep. Peter King, who said that the Islamic States leader, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, was telling the truth when he said the U.S. and Russia had done little to halt his army of bloodthirsty militants.
Unfortunately overall he is probably right that after 15 months of, 16 months of air attacks by the U.S., its had really minimal impact on ISIS, considering how long those attacks have been going on, King said on Fox News Sunday.
The comments come a day after the 24-minute recording from Baghdadi surfaced. In the recording Baghdadi urged his soldiers to be patient because you are on the right path.
The U.S.-led alliance does not scare us... nor do they scatter our resolve because we are the victors in any event, he said.
Baghdadi declared that the caliphate in Syria and Iraq was doing well despite an international alliance against it that includes Saudi Arabia.
America and its allies dream of destroying the caliphate through their proxies and henchmen, and whenever an alliance of theirs fails or a tail is cut, they hasten to establish another, Baghdadi said.
The Republican Congressman from Long Island reiterated that the best way to prevent further ISIS attacks in the U.S. was more surveillance of Muslim communities. Critics say the controversial move would further dissuade law-abiding people from contacting the authorities for fear of being suspected of becoming radicalized.
This is nothing against Muslims, but the fact is that is where the threat is coming from. And we are kidding ourselves. We have this blind political correctness, which makes no sense, King said.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://royce.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=397861,These are the 10 most effective lawmakers in the U.S. Congress,2015-12-28,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,CA,Edward Royce,R000487,royce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Public approval of Congress is near historic lows. Journalists, scholars, and presidential candidates regularly express frustration with Congresss inability to get anything done. So which members of the U.S. House are skilled at overcoming gridlock and successfully making laws?Building on our existing research on legislative effectiveness in the United States Congress, we have updated our Legislative Effectiveness Scores (LES) to include those House members who served in the 113th Congress (2013-14). As described in our recently published book, the Legislative Effectiveness Score is constructed to measure how successful a given representative is at moving his or her own legislative agenda items (meaning, sponsored bills) through different stages of the legislative process, where each of those bills is also coded for its substantive significance. The specific formula for the LES can be found here. Drawing on these updated scores, the following tables identify the five most effective representatives from the Republican and Democratic Parties, respectively. Most Effective Republican Representatives (Name/State and District)  
Dave Camp (MI-4)  
Darrell Issa (CA-49)  
Ed Royce (CA-39)  
Doc Hastings (WA-4)  
Don Young (AK) Most Effective Democratic Representatives (Name/State and District)  
Earl Blumenauer (OR-3)  
Richard Nolan (MN-8)  
Elijah Cummings (MD-7)  
Kurt Schrader (OR-5)  
Derek Kilmer (WA-6) All of them except Camp and Hastings are now serving in the current 114th Congress. Our research suggests that effective lawmakers in one Congress are more likely to produce landmark laws in the next.  
Given the success of these representatives, should we be optimistic that the current Congress can tackle major issues? On the Republican side, we see that these most-effective representatives have introduced many bills (H.R.s) into the House. Despite an arguably contentious environment, they have had a good deal of success. Issa, for example, sponsored the FOIA Act (H.R. 653) and the First Responders Passport Act of 2015 (H.R. 3750), both of which were acted upon in committee (with hearings and amendments considered) and have been ordered to be reported from committee (moving toward a vote of the full House).  

Royce has seen nine of the 18 House bills that he sponsored treated substantively, with such actions as committee markups and hearings. His Global Anti-Poaching Act (H.R. 2494) passed the House and is currently being considered in the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. His Hizballah International Financing Prevention Act of 2015 (H.R. 2297) passed the House and also recently passed the Senate (with amendment). As he has in previous Congresses, Young continues to be a strong advocate for his home state of Alaska, the beneficiary of almost all of the more than 40 bills that he has introduced into the 114th Congress. Two of these bills, H.R. 336 and H.R. 1335, have already passed the House and have been referred to the relevant Senate committees for consideration. Several others have been the focus of various committee and subcommittee markups and hearings. Since the Democrats are in the minority, the five highly effective Democratic representatives have been less successful in moving bills forward. But even they have made headway. For example, the Tribal Coastal Resilience Act (H.R. 2719), sponsored by Kilmer, has been the subject of subcommittee hearings. More impressively, the Federal Employee Antidiscrimination Act of 2015 (H.R. 1557), sponsored by Cummings, unanimously passed the House and has been making progress in the Senate. In these bills, Congress is tackling important local, national, and international issues. Their success tells us that even in these contentious times, members of both parties can move bills forward, especially when they adopt the habits of highly effective lawmakers.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://toomey.senate.gov?p=news&id=1661,Toomey's Take: Working Together for PA,2015-12-28,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,PA,Patrick Toomey,T000461,toomey.senate.gov,,,legacy,"When I travel across the Commonwealth, host public town halls or telephone town halls, or sit down with constituents for a cup of coffee, I often hear complaints about how partisan Washington has become and how little is being done in Congress to help Pennsylvania.  I, too, get frustrated when partisanship gets in the way of legislating. And while the Senate has rolled up its sleeves and passed more bills in 2015 than in recent years, I understand why many Pennsylvanians feel this way.  Fortunately, partisanship and gridlock do not have to stop Washington from doing business. As Senator Bob Casey and I have shown, bipartisanship and cooperation can work and produce real results.  So let me discuss one example of this cooperation: federal judges.  Pennsylvania has three federal judicial districts and is covered by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit. When vacancies occur in the district courts, Senator Casey and I vet and recommend candidates whom the president will then typically nominate. For vacancies on the U.S. Court of Appeals, Third Circuit, the White House, Senator Casey, and I collaborate on a suitable nominee.    When I took office in 2011, Pennsylvania had a number of vacancies on the federal bench. At the time, the federal courthouses in Easton, Reading, and Williamsport all lacked a sitting federal district judge. The Erie courthouse currently lacks a federal district judge as well. Clearly, Pennsylvania not only needed more federal judges, but also needed these judges to be more geographically dispersed across the state so all Pennsylvanians could access justice conveniently.  That is why Senator Casey and I, along with the White House, have worked on a bipartisan basis to fill judicial vacancies. In fact, since 2011, Senator Casey and I have vetted, recommended, and confirmed 14 U.S. District Court judges and one judge for the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit - with the result that during this time, Pennsylvania has had more federal judges confirmed than any other state except California and New York. And Easton, Reading, and Williamsport now have sitting federal district judges working in each of their federal courthouses.  There is a lot of work required to recommend and confirm each judge. Senator Casey and I established bipartisan panels in each federal judicial district. These experienced, knowledgeable panels vet and interview district judge applicants and then make recommendations to Senator Casey and me. We then review these recommendations, conduct our own interviews, and then agree on which finalists to submit to the White House. The White House then carries out its own background investigation. If everything checks out, the president nominates our recommended candidates. The Senate Judiciary Committee then reviews the nominees, conducts yet another background investigation, and, barring any disqualifying discoveries, approves them so they can then receive a confirmation vote in the full Senate.  This is a time consuming process, but it has been working for Pennsylvania - including this very month.  On December 9th, the Senate agreed to schedule a confirmation vote for Judge Luis Felipe Restrepo for a vacancy on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit. That same day, four federal district judge nominees for Pennsylvania - including one to fill the vacant courthouse in Erie - received a hearing at the Senate Judiciary Committee and are one step closer to getting confirmed.  If all five of these nominations are approved by the Senate, and I am confident they will be, Senator Casey and I will have worked together to confirm a total of 20 judges to Pennsylvania's federal courts - significant progress for our state. It is an accomplishment that not only helps Pennsylvania, but it also shows what can be achieved when two senators from opposite parties rise above the gridlock and partisanship to put their constituents first.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsletter?ContentRecord_id=71aa088b-e534-4a9c-8baf-1519ba7ab6bc,Kansas Common Sense: Kansas Listening Tour Continues,2015-12-28,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,KS,Jerry Moran,M000934,www.moran.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Hello,
Welcome to Kansas Common Sense. I hope you and your family are enjoying this holiday season. Robba and I enjoyed a peaceful Christmas with our family and we wish you and yours a very Happy New Year. In January, my colleagues and I return to Capitol Hill and I am hopeful 2016 will be a year where Congress can work together for the well-being of our nation. I look forward to advocating for pro-growth policies that create jobs and more economic opportunity for every American, while protecting the freedoms guaranteed by our Constitution.
Thank you for your continued interest in receiving my weekly newsletter. Please feel free to forward it on to your family and friends if it would interest them.
Kansas Listening Tour ContinuesThis week, I continued my Kansas Listening Tour and kicked off the last of several stops around Kansas Ill be making in 2015 with a visit to Barnes. It was good to be in Washington County rather than Washington, D.C. The issues I focus on and work I do in Washington are significantly based on the conversations I have with Kansans. I have several more visits scheduled after Christmas including stops in Udall, Wellington, Clearwater, Haven, Hillsboro and Hill City. You can visit my website to learn more about these and other upcoming Kansas Listening Tour stops in your community. I hope youll come out and visit with me.
On Monday, I headed Barnes, where around 30 town hall attendees came to Our Daily Bread Bake Shoppe to share concerns on a number of topics including the veterans health care, the farm economy, gun control, and the recent omnibus spending legislation. Thanks again to all the folks who came out and shared a dose of Kansas common sense, and to the folks at Our Daily Bread Bake Shoppe for coordinating and hosting my visit.

Celebrating the Life of Bob KrauseLast Monday, Robba and I attended funeral services for Bob Krause who will be remembered for his more than 20 years of leadership at KansState University. Bobs efforts to attract new development projects like the National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility to K-State will have a lasting impact on not only the university, but also the Manhattan community and state of Kansas for years to come. Especially during this holiday season, we're keeping his wife Marty and their daughters in our thoughts and prayers.
Thanks to Fall/Winter 2015 InternsMy own interest in public service was sparked by an internship for Kansas First District Congressman Keith Sebelius in 1974. As an intern, I had the chance to learn firsthand how a Congressional office operates and how the legislative process works.
I am proud to be able to offer this same opportunity in my Senate office today where I have interns year-round who have a unique opportunity to work closely with my staff on behalf of Kansas. Thanks to the fall/winter 2015 interns  Drake Williams of Overland Park; University of Kansas, and Rachel Gordon of Phillipsburg; Pepperdine University  for all of your hard work. I wish you the best of luck as you pursue your dreams and begin your careers.

Applications are already being accepted for internships in my Washington, D.C., office for the summer 2016 term. Congressional internships are open to qualified undergraduate and graduate students who have an interest in public service and have achieved academic excellence.
Senate Incoming Email DisruptionOn Tuesday, December 22, several incoming emails failed to reach my office due to a Senate power outage. Your thoughts and concerns are very important to me. If you tried to email my office, subscribe to this newsletter, or have yourself removed from our outreach list on the morning of Dec. 22, please resubmit your request.
Honored to Serve You in WashingtonIt is an honor to serve you in Washington, D.C. Thank you to the many Kansans who have been calling and writing in to share their thoughts and opinions on the issues our state and country face. I appreciate the words of Kansans, whether in the form of a form of letter, a Facebook comment or a phone call, who wish to make their voice heard.
Please let me know how I can be of assistance. You can contact me by email by clicking here. You can also click here to contact me through one of my Kansas offices or my Washington, D.C., office.
Very truly yours,
Jerry",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://costello.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/costello-announces-congressional-app-challenge,Costello Announces Congressional App Challenge,2015-12-28,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,PA,Ryan Costello,C001106,costello.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC Today, Congressman Ryan Costello (PA-06) announced that his office is now accepting entries for the Congressional App Challenge. The contest, open to high school students in Pennsylvanias Sixth Congressional District, encourages students to program and design their own original applications, known as apps, for electronic devices. Sponsored by the Internet Education Foundation, the challenge offers PA-06 high school students the opportunity to showcase their creativity and programming abilities to a national audience and make contact with potential future high-tech employers.Entries will be accepteduntil January 15, 2016.
In an effort to promote creativity and encourage students to hone their coding expertise, I have launched the Congressional App Challenge, said Congressman Costello. Its my hope that the contest will pose a fun challenge for students involved in STEM-based education and stay ahead of the evolving technology. Maybe well see a PA-06 student create the next Instagram or Snapchat app that will take our culture by storm!
Congressman Costello is a member of the Congressional Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) and the Congressional Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math (STEAM) caucuses.
Rules of Entry
Contestants will be judged on creativity, user experience, and an understanding of coding and programming skills. Participants must be 13 years of age or older and reside in or attend school in Pennsylvanias Sixth Congressional District. Teams of no more than four students are welcome.
The winning student or teams app in each congressional district will be featured on the U.S. House of Representatives website (www.house.gov), and displayed in an exhibit in the U.S. Capitol. The apps will be judged by a panel selected by the Congressmans office and winners will be announcedon February 22, 2016.
For more information on rules and entry requirements, interested students may contact Congressman Costellos Washington, DC office at(202) 225-4315or visit www.challenge.gov/challenge/congressional-app-challenge-pa-06-rep-costello/.For information about the Internet Education Foundation, please visithttps://www.neted.org.

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https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-congratulates-stephen-reynolds-of-missoula-on-naval-academy-appointment,Daines Congratulates Stephen Reynolds of Missoula on Naval Academy Appointment,2015-12-28,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,MT,Steve Daines,D000618,www.daines.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.28.15
			 Daines Congratulates Stephen Reynolds of Missoula on Naval Academy Appointment 
			
			WASHINGTON, D.C.  Senator Steve Daines today congratulated Missoula student Stephen Reynolds on his appointment to the United States Naval Academy.
Reynolds, a senior at Sentinel High School in Missoula, received a nomination to the Naval and Air Force Academies from Daines earlier this month. Reynolds is currently the student body class president, captain of the varsity football team as well as member of both the National Honor Society and Key Club.
Stephen Reynolds is a hardworking student excelling both inside and outside of the classroom who exemplifies the best of our state's commitment to service, Daines stated. I am proud to congratulate Steve on his extensive accomplishments in high school and looking forward to watching him become a future leader in the Navy.
The United States Naval Academy is located in Annapolis, Maryland.
Montana students interested in applying to any of our nation's service academy can find more information by visiting Daines' website at:http://www.daines.senate.gov/serving-you/for-students/academy-nominations.

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https://www.mccain.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=37b2bec3-08f3-44bc-bfe1-c05a15e0de93,STATEMENT BY SENATOR JOHN McCAIN ON JAPAN & REPUBLIC OF KOREAS AGREEMENT REGARDING COMFORT WOMEN,2015-12-28,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,AZ,John McCain,M000303,www.mccain.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.  U.S. Senator John McCain (R-AZ), Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement on the agreement reached by Japan and the Republic of Korea regarding wartime comfort women:
Today's landmark agreement between Japan and the Republic of Korea regarding the comfort woman issue is a testament to the leadership and vision of Prime Minister Abe and President Park. I truly hope this agreement will mark a new era between Tokyo and Seoul based not on the burdens of history but on the shared goal of forging a more stable, peaceful, and prosperous future for the Asia-Pacific region. A Japan and ROK that are more unified bilateral partners and trilateral allies with the United States represents a powerful force for freedom in the world that we should welcome in these perilous and unpredictable times. I congratulate both governments on finalizing this historic deal and look forward to realizing its benefits in the years ahead.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.mccain.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=4193375b-dae1-48f9-8ede-cdfbbd5607b7,STATEMENT BY SASC CHAIRMAN JOHN McCAIN ON IRAQI FORCES RETAKING RAMADI FROM ISIL,2015-12-28,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,AZ,John McCain,M000303,www.mccain.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.  U.S. Senator John McCain (R-AZ), Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement on reports that Iraqi forces have retaken the city center of Ramadi from the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL):
The liberation of the city center of Ramadi is a major milestone in the fight against ISIL, a significant achievement for the Iraqi Security Forces, and a tribute to the tireless efforts of U.S. and coalition forces who have enabled this victory. The recent capture of Tishreen Dam by opposition forces in Syria, similarly supported by U.S. and coalition forces, also represents a meaningful setback for ISIL.
However, no one should understate how much work remains and how much more difficult that work will be than liberating Ramadi. The black flags of ISIL still fly over Mosul, Raqqa, and other key parts of Iraq and Syria. This threat is also metastasizing across the Middle East, North Africa, and South Asia. And it now poses a more direct threat than ever to our homeland and that of our allies, as we have seen in recent terrorist attacks in San Bernardino, Paris, Beirut, Ankara, and the downing of a Russian airliner over Sinai.
For recent gains to endure, the ground that has been cleared in Iraq and Syria must now be held so ISIL cannot return. At the same time, the liberation of ISIL's strongholds in Iraq and Syria are essential to eliminating its ability to recruit and radicalize, but our commanders estimate that Mosul will not be retaken by the end of next year, and there is currently no local ground force in Syria that is both capable and willing to retake Raqqa, nor is one likely to emerge in the foreseeable future. These efforts must be part of a comprehensive regional strategy to counter ISIL wherever it seeks to expand and make inroads.
If our goal truly is to destroy ISIL in the near future, rather than kick the can down the road for others to deal with, the United States must play a far more active role than we are now, especially in supporting local Sunni Arab forces to take the fight to ISIL themselves. More than anything, this requires the President to speak clearly to the American people about the nature of the threat we are facing, what it will take to succeed, and have the resolve to see it through. So long as this President is unwilling or incapable of exercising this leadership, the threat we face will only grow.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.sullivan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sullivan-commends-leaders-of-republic-of-korea-and-japan-on-comfort-women-settlement,Sullivan Commends Leaders of Republic of Korea and Japan on Comfort Women Settlement,2015-12-28,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,AK,Dan Sullivan,S001198,www.sullivan.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.28.15
			 Sullivan Commends Leaders of Republic of Korea and Japan on Comfort Women' Settlement 
			
			WASHINGTON, D.C--Senator Dan Sullivan (R-AK) released the following statement on the settlement of the dispute between the Republic of Korea and Japan over World War II-era Comfort Women.
I commend the leaders of both the Republic of Korea and Japan for directly addressing the painful and difficult issue of Comfort Women' during World War II and the involvement and responsibility of Japan's military. This agreement should further help healing and reconciliation between two of our most important allies in the Asia Pacific and hasten trilateral cooperation on a variety of security, economic and humanitarian issues among our three countries.
Senator Sullivan sits on the Senate Armed Services Committee. As part of his duties on that committee, he has traveled to the Asia Pacific twice in the last year and has met with numerous senior government officials in the region.
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http://cole.house.gov/joint-op-ed-tulsa-world-lifting-ban-crude-oil-exports-starts-new-chapter-oklahoma,Joint Op-Ed in Tulsa World: Lifting ban on crude oil exports starts new chapter for Oklahoma,2015-12-27,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,OK,Tom Cole,C001053,cole.house.gov,,,legacy,"Tulsa World - By U.S. Senators Jim Inhofe & James Lankford and Congressmen Frank Lucas, Tom Cole, Markwayne Mullin & Steve Russell
Revenue in Oklahoma is down by 12 percent. We face a $900.8 million shortfall going into 2016. Our state Secretary of Finance has said we are facing the biggest fiscal challenge since the 2008 recession, and our state education agencies have been told to prepare for large, across-the-board budget cuts midway through the school year substantially due to unreasonably restricting our own access to the international market.
On top of all of this, a report from Oklahoma State University shows our state could lose more than 20,000 jobs through 2016 as a result of our unstable energy market.
One immediate way we can fix the problem is by ending the 40-year-old relic that has been dictating our national energy policy.
Most people might not know that it has been illegal for the U.S. to sell crude oil around the world. This outdated law has hurt our state and its families and businesses that are already struggling to get by.
This is why we have been fighting for a change.
We have been fighting to give jobs back to Oklahomas oil patch workers, to keep gasoline prices low, and to make sure the United States and our allies are not held hostage by countries that use energy as a political weapon.
We won this fight to lift the ban on exporting U.S. crude oil in the year-end funding bill.
Lifting the ban means creating 1 million jobs across nearly all 50 states. It means more revenue for Oklahoma. It means six new downstream jobs for every 10 new energy jobs, from manufacturing to information technology.
Lifting the ban on crude oil exports means maintaining the low prices we see at the gasoline pumps and disposable money families can put in savings or back into our economy. It means freedom from dangerous cartels across the Middle East that threaten our security and our way of life.
Lifting the ban on crude oil exports is about our kids future. It is a new opportunity for the entrepreneur down the street, motivation for the student thinking about an apprenticeship in our energy economy and security for the parents who are worried about their jobs.
The new year is a turning point. One of the final budgets under this president is behind us. Now we have an opportunity to move beyond this administrations heavy hand and bring Oklahomas values back to our federal government.
As your voice in Congress, we will always fight for our families, our jobs, our values and our freedom.
Online: Tulsa World",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://byrne.house.gov/media-center/columns/looking-back-on-2015,Looking Back on 2015,2015-12-27,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,AL,Bradley Byrne,B001289,byrne.house.gov,,,legacy,"2015 was packed full of major developments for Southwest Alabama. As the year draws to a close, I thought it would be a good time to review some of the highlights.
One of the first votes the House of Representatives took in 2015 was on my bill to repeal Obamacare in its entirety and instead move forward with patient-centered healthcare reform that isnt run by the federal government. My bill passed the House by a vote of 296 to 186.
Also in February, I introduced the Real Choice for Veterans Act to help increase veteran access to private health care. The bloated VA bureaucracy is failing too many of our veterans, and I believe we shouldnt require veterans to remain stuck in this failed system. Its time we let veterans seek medical care from doctors and hospitals in their local communities.
In March, I hosted a Leadership Workshop in Mobile for over 500 area high school students. South Alabama head football coach Joey Jones served as our keynote speaker, and I held a town hall meeting to take questions from the students. It was a huge success.
Also in the spring, I introduced legislation designed to reduce the size of the federal government and cut down on unnecessary government bureaucracy. My bill, known as the Sunset Act, would require most federal agencies to be reviewed and reauthorized once every ten years. If Congress fails to authorize an agency, they would cease to exist. This would make government more efficient and accountable.
In June, the House passed a bill that included three of my reforms designed to get a longer Red Snapper season for our fishermen. My provisions would repeal the inflexible quotas, extend state water boundaries for each Gulf state to nine nautical miles, and remove data collection and stock assessments from federal control. I was proud to get these important provisions passed through the House.
In August, I traveled to Israel to visit with our strongest allies in the Middle East. We talked a lot about the Iran Nuclear Agreement and the harmful impact it would have on Israel and the world. When I returned to Washington, I voted to stop the deal from taking effect.
Also in August, I held a Conservative Solutions Town Hall Tour to listen to your concerns and ideas. I held over 15 town hall meetings with stops in all six counties that make up Alabamas First Congressional District. Thanks to all those who came out!
This fall, I was pleased to see the National Defense Authorization Act signed into law. As a member of the House Armed Services Committee, I worked hard to ensure the bill included authorization to build additional navy ships at the Austal shipyard in Mobile. I remain so impressed by the work done by the men and women who work at our shipyard.
And in December, Congress finally agreed on a long-term highway bill. This is the first highway bill lasting longer than two years since 2005. Having a long-term highway bill in place will allow us to move forward with important highway projects like the I-10 bridge in Mobile, Highway 98 in Mobile County, and Highway 45 in Washington County.
All told, in 2015 my office responded to over16,000 pieces of mail, held over 25 town hall meetings in person, over the phone, and online, took part in over 160 events throughout Southwest Alabama, and assisted over 1,000 constituents who were having issues with a federal agency.
We made significant progress in 2015, but more work certainly remains. Im committed to continuing to fight for our areas priorities in Congress and pushing for a smaller, more accountable federal government.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cruz.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=2566,Sen. Cruz: Prayers for Victims of Severe Weather in Texas,2015-12-27,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,TX,Ted Cruz,C001098,www.cruz.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) today released the following statement on the devastating storms and tornadoes in North Texas yesterday that killed at least 11 people and damaged more than 600 buildings:
Yesterday evening, horrific storms and tornadoes hit the state of Texas. Tragically, lives were lost, many were injured, and still many more left homeless. While the damage is great, our perseverance is greater. At times like these, we all come together to help one another. The Red Cross and first responders in the area have acted swiftly to tend to those in need. Heidi and I ask that you join us in keeping the victims of this tragedy in your hearts and prayers, and we encourage you to lend a hand to those affected as storms continue throughout the day.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/in-the-news/joint-op-ed-in-tulsa-world-lifting-ban-on-crude-oil-exports-starts-new-chapter-for-oklahoma,Joint Op-Ed in Tulsa World: Lifting ban on crude oil exports starts new chapter for Oklahoma,2015-12-27,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,OK,James Lankford,L000575,www.lankford.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.27.15
			 Joint Op-Ed in Tulsa World: Lifting ban on crude oil exports starts new chapter for Oklahoma 
			
			Revenue in Oklahoma is down by 12 percent. We face a $900.8 million shortfall going into 2016. Our state Secretary of Finance has said we are facing the biggest fiscal challenge since the 2008 recession, and our state education agencies have been told to prepare for large, across-the-board budget cuts midway through the school year.
On top of all of this, a report from Oklahoma State University shows our state could lose more than 20,000 jobs through 2016 as a result of our unstable energy market.
One immediate way we can fix the problem is by ending the 40-year-old relic that has been dictating our national energy policy.
Most people might not know that it has been illegal for the U.S. to sell crude oil around the world. This outdated law has hurt our state and its families and businesses that are already struggling to get by.
This is why we have been fighting for a change.
We have been fighting to give jobs back to Oklahoma's oil patch workers, to keep gasoline prices low, and to make sure the United States and our allies are not held hostage by countries that use energy as a political weapon.
We won this fight to lift the ban on exporting U.S. crude oil in the year-end funding bill.
Lifting the ban means creating 1 million jobs across nearly all 50 states. It means more revenue for Oklahoma. It means six new downstream jobs for every 10 new energy jobs, from manufacturing to information technology.
Lifting the ban on crude oil exports means maintaining the low prices we see at the gasoline pumps and disposable money families can put in savings or back into our economy. It means freedom from dangerous cartels across the Middle East that threaten our security and our way of life.
Lifting the ban on crude oil exports is about our kids' future. It is a new opportunity for the entrepreneur down the street, motivation for the student thinking about an apprenticeship in our energy economy and security for the parents who are worried about their jobs.
The New Year is a turning point. One of the final budgets under this president is behind us. Now we have an opportunity to move beyond this administration's heavy hand and bring Oklahoma's values back to our federal government.
As your voice in Congress, we will always fight for our families, our jobs, our values and our freedom.
###
			
			
				  
				    By:
				    U.S. Senators James Lankford and Jim Inhofe, and U.S. Representatives Frank Lucas, Tom Cole, Markwayne Mullin and Steve Russell Sunday
			
			
				  
				Source:
				
					
				
				Tulsa World
				
					
				
			
		
		
	
	  

	
	
	
	
	 
		
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https://zeldin.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-lee-zeldin-spends-christmas-us-troops-iraq-and-kuwait,Rep. Lee Zeldin Spends Christmas with U.S. Troops in Iraq and Kuwait,2015-12-27,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,NY,Lee Zeldin,Z000017,zeldin.house.gov,,,legacy,"Patchogue, NY - Congressman Lee Zeldin (R, C - NY-1), member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, returned Saturday, December 26, from a bipartisan Congressional Delegation (CODEL) visit that he led to the Middle East. Also participating in Congressman Zeldins CODEL were Congressmen David G. Valadao (R - CA-21) and David Cicilline (D  RI-1). During the visit, Congressman Zeldin made stops in Iraq, Kuwait, Jordan and Qatar.
Congressman Zeldin said, ""I was honored to lead a bipartisan CODEL to the Middle East over Christmas. The briefings with top military and diplomatic leadership, who are front in center in the fight against ISIS, served to update me on the latest developments in the coalition's efforts. I also had an opportunity to personally thank many of our service members in Iraq and Kuwait who are currently deployed and missing Christmas away from their families this holiday season.""
""It is great to be back home from the Middle East,"" Congressman Zeldin continued. ""The briefings were so informative. The good news is that things are moving a little better in Iraq now and there is a plan being executed in a positive direction. It is very tenuous though and could turn in the opposite direction quickly. The bad news is that things are a lot worse in Syria and Libya and there really isn't much of a plan at all.""
Congressman Zeldin concluded, ""I'll be looking forward to spending the next 24 hours digesting the detailed info from the various discussions, reflecting on the entire trip and reporting back on what I can. It is a complicated map in the Middle East, and unfortunately believing that none of it has anything to do with us is absolutely not an option. Naivety, weakness and a lack of leadership would prove very costly with the road ahead. The next step forward in American foreign policy must be the right move and it must be a move that plans from victory backwards and considers what moves six, seven and eight down the road should look like. There sure is quite a lot for me to think about the rest of this weekend and beyond. It's not as easy as the U.S. just 'mowing the grass' and killing everyone and it's also not as easy as doing nothing and letting them all kill each other."" Pictures from the CODEL are below. Congressman Zeldin speaking to 82nd Airborne Division Paratroopers in Iraq just following their Christmas morning run: Congressmen Zeldin and Valadao in Amman, Jordan: Congressmen Zeldin and Valadao meeting at the U.S. Embassy in Kuwait with U.S. Ambassador to Kuwait Douglas Silliman: Congressman Zeldin speaking with Army Colonels about military operations in Iraq and Syria: Congressman Zeldin speaking with LTG Sean McFarland (Commanding General of Combined Joint Task Force- Operation Inherent Resolve), Deputy Chief of Mission Jonathan Cohen (Office of the U.S. Ambassador to Iraq), and MG Richard Clark (Commanding General, 82nd Airborne Division) about military operations in Iraq and Syria:",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://zeldin.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-zeldins-christmas-day-greeting-middle-east,Rep. Zeldin's Christmas Day Greeting From the Middle East,2015-12-27,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,NY,Lee Zeldin,Z000017,zeldin.house.gov,,,legacy,"Baghdad, Iraq - Congressman Lee Zeldin (R, C - NY-1), member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, released the following Christmas Day greeting while currently leading a Congressional Delegation (CODEL) visit to the Middle East:
""As a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, I'm currently leading a Congressional Delegation visit to the Middle East. For some of our service members I have met, this is their first deployment and first Christmas away from home. For others, this is their 6th deployment and sacrificing so much time away from family for so many holidays is certainly not easy.
During my visit, which has included stops in Iraq, Kuwait and Jordan, I've had several meetings with top military and diplomatic leadership as well as many small group conversations over meals with our deployed service members from New York and around the country.
It is such a privilege to personally let each and every one of them know just how much a very grateful nation thinks about them during these deployments and prays constantly for their safe return. This holiday season, Americans at home and abroad are seeking time for reflection and family. From the Middle East, I want to wish all Long Islanders back home who I am so honored to represent a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://noem.house.gov/index.cfm/in-the-news?ContentRecord_id=00E0793D-B932-4CB5-9A22-1DBE40C9E8B6,"Meet The Lawmakers Who Sleep, Shower, Work  All On Capitol Hill",2015-12-26,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,SD,Kristi Noem,N000184,noem.house.gov,,,legacy,"NPR 
	When South Dakota Republican Kristi Noem was looking for a new office at the beginning of this Congress, she knew she'd need one thing in particular: closet space.
Noem is one of dozens of lawmakers who, by day, work in the office buildings on the House side of the U.S. Capitol and, by night, live in them.
""There's storage in this room here for my blankets and pillows,"" Noem told NPR in a recent tour of her office in the Rayburn building.
These lawmakers say office living has some political benefit, but it's mainly a good way to save a buck in Washington.
Noem sleeps on a pullout in her office. She described her morning routine this way:
""There's a gym in the basement, so I get up in the morning and go down to the member's gym and work out with a group of people,"" she said. ""And then I go to the women's gym and shower and put my makeup on and stuff and come back up here and get dressed.""
Sleeping in the office is not without some hazards, Noem said. One night in her old office, she was working late on her laptop when an unwelcome visitor arrived.
A mouse.
Noem is a farmer and a rancher, but she freaked out. She called a male staffer back to the office to help catch the mouse. They couldn't find it, so for her peace of mind, she had him duct tape the bottom of her office door ""so that it wouldn't come in while I was sleeping,"" she said.
The most prominent member of this ""Couch Caucus""? Newly minted House Speaker Paul Ryan, who's been sleeping in his office for years.
The Wisconsin Republican told CNN's Dana Bash in a recent interview that he would keep doing it even if he is, now, second in line to the presidency.
""I'm just a normal guy,"" Ryan said.
""But normal guys don't sleep in their offices!"" Bash replied.
Maybe it's not normal, but there are no rules against it.
There's also no official data on how many do it. Lawmakers estimate, though, that at least 40 House members sleep in their offices.
""I think there's more than you might expect,"" said Rep. Andy Barr, R-Ky., who sleeps on a futon in his office. ""There's quite a few of us, particularly the younger members with young families back home in our districts. There's quite a few  men and women.""
Noem is one of very few women who sleep in their office. Most of them are Republican men.
It's good politics, particularly among conservatives, to make it known back home they're not getting too comfortable in Washington. When Republican Bill Huizenga was campaigning for the Michigan seat vacated by Republican Rep. Pete Hoekstra, for example, voters wanted to know three things, Huizenga told NPR.
""People would ask me: What am I going to do about spending, what am I going to do about Obamacare and am I sleeping on my couch like Pete,"" he said.
The transition was easy for Huizenga because, as he quipped, ""I'm a cheap Dutchman.""
A handful of Democrats sleep in their offices, too, though Illinois Congressman Mike Quigley said he's not trying to make a political statement.
""It's not something I'm thrilled about,"" he said. ""It's just circumstances.""
Quigley started sleeping in his office, in part, to save money to put his two daughters through college. Every lawmaker NPR interviewed said saving money was the main reason they do it.
Members of Congress make $174,000 a year, but maintaining a residence in the neighborhoods around the U.S. Capitol can easily cost approximately $2,000 a month. That's a waste of money, these members said, if you're only staying in Washington a few nights a week  and keeping a house in your home state.
""Next year's schedule for the House activities? We're here 83 nights. So you're paying rent in a very expensive neighborhood for 282 nights you're not here,"" Quigley said.
Since next year is an election year, lawmakers will spend even less time in Washington, so sleeping in the office is not just practical, but maybe, also good politics.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.blunt.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ContentRecord_id=cf8021b5-1538-40ea-ba15-80bae616757a,Senator Blunt Comments on Passing of Missouri Senator Emory Melton,2015-12-26,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,MO,Roy Blunt,B000575,www.blunt.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC  U.S. Senator Roy Blunt (Mo.)released the following statement today on the passing of former Missouri State Senator Emory Melton. Senator Melton was a lifelong resident of Barry County, Missouri and served in the Missouri Senate from 1972 until 1996.
""Senator Melton faithfully served Missouri in the statehouse for over 20 years and he is someone most everyone admired, including me. Emory's advice was valued, his friendship could be counted on, and his example was always good.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://flores.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398743,Waco Tribune: Flores honors Army vet with commendation,2015-12-25,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,TX,Bill Flores,F000461,flores.house.gov,,,legacy,"Retired U.S. Army Col. Jon Ker, of Valley Mills, received a 2015 Congressional Veterans Commendation from U.S. Rep. Bill Flores. He was one of several veterans honored who live in the 17th Congressional District served by Flores.
Ker served in the U.S. Army for nearly 40 years. He served with the 5th Special Forces Group in Vietnam in 1969 at the Dak Seang and Ben Het Special Forces camps in the Tri-border area where Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos converge.
He fought throughout the siege at Ben Het, which at the time was the second-longest battle of the war. He earned a Bronze Star, among other commendations, during his combat duty in Vietnam.
In 2003, he volunteered to deploy to Iraq with the 5th Special Forces Group, and part of his job was to work on the capture of Iraqi President Saddam Hussein. After his capture, one of the men in Kers group drove Saddams car to the U.S. safe house.
To read full article click here",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://harper.house.gov/enewsletters/merry-christmas-and-happy-new-year,Merry Christmas and Happy New Year,2015-12-25,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,MS,Gregg Harper,H001045,harper.house.gov,,,legacy,"Merry Christmas and Happy New Year                  
            
            
                                
                    Dear Friend,
As we celebrate the birth of our Lord Jesus, let us remember that the holiday season is also about family and the love we share for each other. Its about gathering together to share in the traditions that we hold dear, not only as a family or a community, but as a nation. As we do that, let us not forget to expressour gratitude to the men and women who serve or have served our country in the protection of our freedoms.
And as we celebrate the most important reasonthe Christ child who was born in a stable and brought forgiveness and peace, take a moment to helpthepeople around you who may be having a difficult time and please extend your generosity.
Scripture reminds us in 1 John 4:9, In this way the love of God was revealed to us; God sent his only Son into the world so that we might have life through him.
I, along with Sidney, Livingston, Maggie, and my Congressional staff, wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
God Bless,  
  
Gregg Harper  
Member of Congress
                
                
                    Posted: 
                    December 25, 2015",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.isakson.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/opinions-and-speeches?ContentRecord_id=aa2f9920-76e0-4096-8448-125658ccdc3b,"VA improved, but has long way to go",2015-12-25,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,GA,Johnny Isakson,I000055,www.isakson.senate.gov,,,legacy,"By U.S. Senator Johnny Isakson 
	
	
		
		As published in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Last year, we all watched with horror as a devastating scandal unfolded at the Department of Veterans Affairs. Veterans around the country were dying as they waited for care. The resulting investigation revealed more tragedies, seemingly every day. As a Senate, we came together to pass the Veterans Access, Choice and Accountability Act of 2014 to give veterans the access they needed to quality health care and to begin to clean up an agency in total disarray.
When I took over as chairman of the Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs at the beginning of this year, almost a year after the scandal broke, I dedicated my service as chairman to 1st Lt. Noah Harris of Georgia, who died in Iraq in 2005. His motto was, I do what I can. I promised to do everything I could to help the brave men and women who served our country like Noah. Im proud to report the committee and Senate have been working together to do what we can to serve our veterans  and were seeing results.
At the beginning of this year, I laid out five broad goals for the committee to pursue during my time as chairman: Overseeing the implementation of the Veterans Choice Program, improving the experience of service members transitioning from active duty to veteran status, protecting victims of military sexual trauma, combating veteran homelessness, and ensuring the VA provides access to mental health care for veterans.
The largest undertaking we have had as a committee has been holding the scandal-plagued VA accountable through our critical oversight. So far, we have held committee oversight hearings to address all five of these goals.
This year, we left the comfort of the U.S. Capitol and brought our committees oversight directly to the VA to hear firsthand from the leadership and rank-and-file employees what actions theyre taking on behalf of our veterans. We have traveled to Denver to address the rampant mismanagement of the construction of the VA medical center there. We went to Gainesville, Ga., and Eagle River, Alaska, to look at the implementation of the Veterans Choice Program. Recently, we went to Phoenix to assess the aftermath of the wait time scandal.
We take our responsibility to hold the VA accountable very seriously, and I look forward to more committee oversight hearings and visits next year, particularly to address the VAs information and technology strategy and to examine the departments backlog of disability appeals.
As the most bipartisan committee in the Senate, our members have worked together to craft meaningful legislation that will have a huge impact on the lives of veterans across the country.
The first thing the Senate did this year was pass the Clay Hunt Suicide Prevention for American Veterans Act, a bill Im particularly proud of because it addresses the terrible problem of suicide among veterans.
Weve passed numerous provisions to improve the Veterans Choice Program so that qualified veterans have more access to care outside the VA. To cut down on the bureaucracy that has plagued the department, we required the VA to develop a plan to consolidate all non-VA health care options into one Choice Program. Implementing this plan will be one of my top priorities next year.
Following the mismanagement and billion-dollar cost overruns at the Denver VA hospital, we also took action to reform the VAs construction programs so that magnitude of waste of taxpayer dollars does not happen again.
All of these important provisions have been signed into law and are already having a positive impact on the lives of our veterans. And at the committee level, we have passed legislation that goes even further to hold bad actors at the VA appropriately accountable, as well as to improve veterans health care and benefits, which I strongly encourage the Senate to pass when we return next year.
While negative headlines about the Department of Veterans Affairs have continued through the year, theres another side to the story, and that is what our committee and Congress has been doing to help veterans. Im the first to admit there is still much more work to be done, but weve been working hard to begin making the necessary changes to ensure veterans will be well-served moving forward.
Im proud of the work the Senate has done, and Im committed to keep working hard next year so veterans get the care and services they deserve.
U.S. Sen. Johnny Isakson, R-Ga., is chairman of the Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://hensarling.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/wsj-consumer-watchdog-pushed-discrimination-case-on-vulnerable-firm-report,WSJ: Consumer Watchdog Pushed Discrimination Case on Vulnerable Firm: Report,2015-12-24,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,TX,Jeb Hensarling,H001036,hensarling.house.gov,,,legacy,"Republicans say Consumer Financial Protection Bureau targeted Ally on likelihood of settlement to gain restructuring approval 
WASHINGTONWhen federal regulators launched a crackdown on alleged discrimination in auto lending two years ago, they knew their methodology would be questioned. But they calculated they could secure a market-shaping settlement by going after a company unlikely to fight the charges because it needed to avoid a complaint to clinch government approval for a broader restructuring.
That is the conclusion of a report, based on internal documents and emails written by the staff of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, releasedTuesdayby congressional Republicans who have long criticized the discrimination probe.
Some of the claims being made in this case present issuesthat would pose litigation risks, CFPB staff members wrote in one 2013 memo addressed tothe bureaus director, Richard Cordray,which was included in the report.
But such concerns, the officials said in the same 23-page document, would be offset by the likelihood of a settlement by the target company,Ally FinancialInc.Ally may have a powerful incentive to settle the entire matter quickly without engaging in protracted litigation, the agencys lawyers wrote, noting that the companys failure to secure approval to become a holdingcompany would force it to divest itself of key businesses, primarily its insurance subsidiaries.
The document showed Mr. Cordray approved the staffs report by signing his initials.
Samuel Gilford, a CFPB spokesman, said the bureau wasnt able to comment immediately, adding that it hadnt had the time to review the report or verify the authenticity of the accompanying documents.
The CFPBs goal has been, and continues to be, the elimination of illegal discrimination, he said, adding that the bureau will fairly and consistently enforce the related law to ensure borrowers harmed by discrimination receive the relief they deserve.
The $98 million settlementwith Ally was the governments biggest case involving alleged discrimination in the auto-loan market and the first case for the CFPB in the industry. The regulators accused the auto lender, formerly known as GMAC, of offering a pricing system that resulted in 235,000 minority borrowers being charged higher interest rates than white customers by auto dealers.
The agencys campaign to pursue auto lenders has set off fury among industry officials and many lawmakers. They have two main complaints: The CFPBs foray into the industry despite its lack of authority over auto dealers; and the methodology used to measure the extent of discrimination based on guesswork, rather than concrete data.Proponents of the action say the CFPB has shed light on questionable industry practices previously unknown to the public and succeeded in reaching settlements worth over $200 million.
Identifying racial bias in auto lending has proved a challenge for the CFPB, as auto-loan applicants, unlike mortgage borrowers, dont have to disclose their race or ethnicity. So the CFPB used a proxy method where they looked at applicants names and locations to make educated guesses about what their races were.
The report was put together by the Republican majority staff of the House Financial Services Committee, which has led the political charge by conservatives trying to defang the CFPB, created by the 2010 Dodd-Frank Act following the financial crisis. The report was released days after the House passed legislation that would rescind the bureaus 2013 guidance aimed at protecting minority borrowers from being charged higher rates by auto dealers. The bill received bipartisan support, with 88 Democrats joining 244 Republicans.
An Ally spokeswoman said, It is a very comprehensive report, and we decline to comment further.
Part of the 54-page document prepared by the Financial Services Committee examines the December 2013 deal that the CFPB and Justice Department reached with Ally, in whichthe company agreed to settle the allegations of discrimination without admitting or denying wrongdoing.
Offering a rare look into regulators tactics for a major enforcement case, the report cites, among other things, the 23-page memorandumaddressed to Mr. Cordray anddatedOct. 7,2013, from staff members of the bureaus Office of Enforcement and Office of Fair Lending, including Patrice Ficklin, assistant director of fair lending and equal opportunity.
The staffers identified Ally as one of the largest auto loan lendersin the U.S. that was in the end stages of a major reorganization. They explained the company hoped to exit from the government control it was put under during the financial crisis and was trying to raise capital through an initial public offering.
To do so, Ally, which had been hit by the subprime crisis, needed to receive approval from the Federal Reserveand FederalDeposit Insurance Corp. to convert to a holding company and maintain key business units.
Ally may be strongly inclined to reach a timely and robust resolution of this matter if it can potentially result in (Allys) successfully converting to a financial holding company, the CFPB lawyers wrote.
They explained to Mr. Cordray that the Fed had indicated that a finding of a fair-lending violation would most likely result in the denial of holding company status. They added the Fed had also suggested that if Ally took prompt and robust corrective action, that would be taken into consideration.
The FDIC, the lawyers said, had also indicated a similar intent in awarding a rating needed for Ally to convert to a new status.
Five days before its deadline to achieve financial holding company status, Ally on Dec. 20, 2013, signed a settlement with the CFPB and Justice Department. On Dec. 23, the company said the Fed approved its application to become a financial holding company.
In essence, settlement of the Bureaus fair lending investigation was a prerequisite for Allys status change, the House Republicans report said.
Ally isnt the only company that has settled with the CFPB cases over alleged violations offair-lending rules. In September this year, Hudson City Bancorp. Inc.reached a settlementover allegations thatthe New Jersey bank withheld mortgages from minority borrowers. Days later, the bank received regulatory approval onits long-awaited merger withM&T BankCorp., announced more than three years earlier.
Beginning with its settlement with Ally, its first case in the auto lending industry, the CFPB has reached agreements worth more than $200 millionwith several other auto financing companies.The cases center on the dealer markup, which allows car dealers to add or subtract a few percentage points to the interest rates borrowers pay. Regulators say that dealers have been charging higher markups for minority borrowers than for their nonminority counterparts.
Corrections & Amplifications
The document showed Richard Cordray approved the staffs report by signing his initials. An earlier version of the online article incorrectly stated the document showed no evidence of Mr. Cordray approving the report.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://jasonsmith.house.gov/media-center/weekly-capitol-report/capitol-report-protecting-farm-family,Capitol Report: Protecting Farm & Family,2015-12-24,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,MO,Jason Smith,S001195,jasonsmith.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Jason Smith Capitol Report:Protecting Farm & Family
This past week Congress completed its legislative work for the calendar year. While much of what was jammed through Congress in the 11thhour represented more of the same in Washington; there was one piece of legislation which will provide large scale tax relief to American families, farmers and business owners, which I was proud to support, the Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes Act.
As a Member of the Ways & Means Committee, the Committee with jurisdiction over all federal taxation issues, I helped author one provision in particular  making permanentsection 179 expensing levels. Section 179 of the U.S. Tax Code allows small businesses, farmers, and small manufacturers to immediately expense the purchase of certain equipment. Had we not taken action, come January 1st, the tax rate on that equipment would have increased by almost 2000%!
Since 2003, section 179 expensing levels have been extended on a temporary, uncertain, ad-hoc basis on ten different occasions  usually for one or two years at best. That type of tax code policy does nothing to allow farmers and business owners to plan for the future. Without certainty on what their tax rates, folks cant manage their farm or business properly nor know how much they will have to expand, invest and grow their operation. The more certainty congress can provide about long term tax rates, the more farmers and businesses can help our economy and create new jobs.
This is a major step to give farmers more peace of mind for the long term while also providing for a major reduction in taxes. Without this action, taxes would have gone up on the very farmers that keep our rural economy moving. Making this provision permanent finally ends the charade of temporary extensions and patches of U.S. tax code policy. Working on and advancing major wins like this for the farmers of Missouri was the exact reason I fought to get on the Ways & Means Committee. We are finally allowing farmers, manufactures and small business owners to plan financially for the long term so they can help grow their farm or business here in America.
Additionally, permanently extending section 179 helps provide the framework and path forward for large scale U.S. tax code overhaul in 2016 and 2017. As a Member of the House Ways & Means Committee, I have been focused on reducing the complex and cumbersome tax code facing families and employers. Simply put, we need to replace our current 75,000 page tax code with a simpler, fairer and flatter system, one which helps rural families and farmers, while getting the IRS out of their lives.
We should be looking for ways to help our farmers and families, not make running a farm or family more difficult. By providing this permanent tax relief we finally took a step in that direction. There is no better way to grow our economy than establishing a less burdensome and less costly tax code, which allows you to keep more of your hard earned money. As your voice in Washington I will continue to advocate for needed relief from unnecessary regulations, out of control spending, and a punitive tax code.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://lance.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/lance-christmas-greeting,Lance Christmas Greeting,2015-12-24,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,NJ,Leonard Lance,L000567,lance.house.gov,,,legacy,"FLEMINGTON, N.J. --- Congressman Leonard Lance (NJ-07) today released the following Christmas greeting:

May the birth of the Savior remind all peoples of the true meaning of Christmas:Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men. 

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. May God be with our men and women in the military, especially those who are in distant lands, this holiday season.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://luetkemeyer.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398663,Blaine's Bulletin: Looking Back on 2015,2015-12-24,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,MO,Blaine Luetkemeyer,L000569,luetkemeyer.house.gov,,,legacy,"Looking back on 2015, I am reminded what an honor it is to serve as your voice in Congress. This year has proved to be another year of battles between Congress and the Administration but it has also been one in which several issues facing the 3rd District were tackled and I am proud of what has been accomplished. 
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      Looking back on 2015, I am reminded what an honor it is to serve as your voice in Congress. This year has proved to be another year of battles between Congress and the Administration but it has also been one in which several issues facing the 3rd District were tackled and I am proud of what has been accomplished. 
This year, Congress passed and the president signed into law, the first long-term transportation legislation in a decade. This fully-funded legislation will help sustain and improve our nations highways, bridges, and railroads. In addition, Congress passed and the president signed into law, legislation that repeals No Child Left Behind. What this means is that Common Core will be kept out of schools, it will reduce the federal role in K-12 education, and it will restore local control and empower parents. The Wall Street Journal wrote this legislation is a bipartisan compromise from the House and Senate represents the largest devolution of federal control to the states in a quarter century.
On a more personal note, I was honored to assist in the naming of the Cedar Hill Post Office after one of our 3rd Districts very own heroes. In June, the president signed into law legislation to designate the facility of the United States Postal Service in Cedar Hill as the Sergeant First Class William B. Woods, Jr. Post Office. It was very moving at the dedication ceremony to be alongside Sergeant Woods friends and family. Another humbling moment for me was having the honor to go to the White House with former Labadie resident, Elsie Shemin Roth, to receive the Medal of Honor on behalf of her father. The official awards ceremony was a culmination of years of work and it was an honor to hear Elsie tell her story of how she worked so long to receive this honor for her fathers courageous and selfless acts of valor during World War I.
At the beginning of the year, I was named the Chairman of the Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance on the House Financial Services Committee. And with that committee assignment, I knew I wanted to draft legislation that would bring reform and change to U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). My comprehensive bill, the Housing Opportunity Through Modernization Act, lays the groundwork to institute reforms to the programs and processes at HUD. This legislation not only saves taxpayers dollars but it streamlines regulatory burdens and overhauls inefficient policies and regulations. My legislation has passed in the House Financial Services Committee and it is my hope it will be on the House floor early next year.
These examples only scratched at the surface of what took place in 2015. I look forward to getting back to work in 2016 so the House can continue to pass legislation that is important to Americans across the country.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://morgangriffith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398506,Congressman Griffith's Special Edition E-Newsletter 12.24.15,2015-12-24,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,VA,Morgan Griffith,G000568,morgangriffith.house.gov,,,legacy,"Till ringing, singing on its way. The world revolved from night to day.
This time of year, I am often reminded of the great carol, I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day. After suffering through years of great despair following the tragic loss of his wife and the injury of his son Charles in the War Between the States, American poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow wroteChristmas Bells, the basis for the carolI Heard the Bells on Christmas Day.
This carol tells of its narrator's despair that ""hate is strong and mocks the song of peace on earth, good will to men,"" until on Christmas Day when he hears the ringing of the bells , which celebrate the power of faith and offer great hope.
I heard the bells on Christmas day
Their old familiar carols play,
And wild and sweet the words repeat
Of peace on earth, good will to men.
And thought how, as the day had come,
The belfries of all Christendom
Had rolled along the unbroken song
Of peace on earth, good will to men.
Till ringing, singing on its way,
The world revolved from night to day,
A voice, a chime, a chant sublime
Of peace on earth, good-will to men.
And in despair I bowed my head
There is no peace on earth, I said,
For hate is strong and mocks the song
Of peace on earth, good well to men.

Then pealed the bells more loud and deep:
""God is not dead; nor doth he sleep!
The Wrong shall fail,
The Right prevail,
With peace on earth, good will to men!""
This meaningful, moving carol was the result of Longfellow having faced the blues, something many experience this time of year. If you know someone of suffering from the blues, consider reaching out to them. All can benefit from and appreciate the importance of community, caring, and giving.
A hopeful message to remember: And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord (Luke 2:10-11).
From my family to yours, best wishes for a safe and merry Christmas.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.murkowski.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=3f088632-4cfd-4ab4-83be-1c2f79ca168b,Murkowski Wishes Alaskans a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays,2015-12-24,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,AK,Lisa Murkowski,M001153,www.murkowski.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.24.15
			 Murkowski Wishes Alaskans a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays 
			
			Today U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski shared her thoughts with Alaskans this holiday season: 
The end of the year is often regarded as a time of celebration, a time of hope, and a time of reflection. And as we gather with our family and friends this year, I encourage you to cherish those you love, and give thanks for that which we hold most dear. Lets also make time to think about the achievements and progress in the past year, and resolve to build upon them. As Alaskans we are blessed with incredible resources; an abundant land and a spirit of ingenuity not least among them. Let us count them among our blessings as we spend time with our loved ones this holiday season.

(Click image to watch video.)
This time of year is also the season of giving, and while we tend to get caught in the rush of Christmas shopping and holiday parties, let us not forget those in need and make volunteering a year-round tradition. Alaskans know that the smallest gesture or gift can make a world of difference, and we can all find a way to make a difference in our community. 
And finally, let us not forget the men and women who serve to protect our country all over the world, many of whom are unable to spend the holidays with their families. To all of our service members and their families, their loved ones: we thank you for your service and all that you do for our nation.
I wish you and your family the very best. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays.
			
			
			
		
		
		
	
    
    
	
	
    
	
	
	
		
	
    
	
     
	
 
	
    
    
		
		
		
		
		
		
		
		
		
		
		  
		
	
	  

	
	
	
	
	 
		
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https://www.burr.senate.gov/press/releases/senators-burr-and-tillis-recap-north-carolina-military-and-veterans-related-legislative-and-policy-gains-for-2015,Senators Burr and Tillis Recap North Carolina Military and Veterans Related Legislative and Policy Gains for 2015,2015-12-24,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,NC,Richard Burr,B001135,www.burr.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.24.15
			 Senators Burr and Tillis Recap North Carolina Military and Veterans Related Legislative and Policy Gains for 2015 
			
			WASHINGTON  Senators Richard Burr (R-NC) and Thom Tillis (R-NC) today recapped the significant gains for veterans, military bases and the military organizations that call North Carolina home. Senators Burr and Tillis worked over the year to secure critical military upgrades that will ensure that America and the state remain prepared amid growing terrorist threats, as well as important legislation for veterans who have suffered from exposure to toxic chemicals at both Camp Lejeune and aboard C-123s in Vietnam. Additionally, all North Carolina military installations are scheduled to receive significant infrastructure upgrades as a result of legislation passed in 2015.
""2015 represented a number of legislative gains for both military installations and organizations in North Carolina, as well as national gains for veterans and active duty personnel,"" said Senator Burr. ""Senator Tillis and I worked together to maintain North Carolina's status as a premier military hub by successfully securing additional capabilities at Seymour Johnson Air Base (NC) as well as the preservation of the 440th Airlift Wing at Fort Bragg (NC). It's critical for both North Carolina and the country to continue to support our Special Operations Forces, given the current terrorist threats to both the homeland and our allies overseas. Additionally, I continued to fight for justice on issues such as those affected by the contaminated water at Camp Lejeune (NC) and those vets across the country who were finally granted disability status from illnesses caused by Agent Orange exposure in C-123s planes over Vietnam and afterwards. The Military Sex Offender Reporting Act of 2015 was signed into law this year and closed a loophole that predators have used to evade law enforcement detection for years. 2015 was a productive year for our efforts to make a difference in NC and nationally and I'm proud of our accomplishments.""
Senator Burr and I worked hard this past year to preserve and strengthen North Carolinas rich military tradition and advocate on behalf of the more than 800,000 North Carolinians who have honorably served our nation, said Senator Tillis. We fought against the Pentagons strategically flawed attempt to shutter the 440th Airlift Wing at Pope Airfield, and I was proud to join Jerry Ensminger, Senator Burr, and the Camp Lejeune Community Assistance Panel in the successful effort to pressure the VA to provide a level of justice for the victims of toxic water contamination at Camp Lejeune. While 2015 resulted in several key victories for our states military and veteran communities, there is still more to be done, and I look forward to continue working with Senator Burr and the rest of the North Carolina Congressional delegation to deliver more results for our great state.
Accomplishments
Camp Lejeune (NC):
In 2015, after sustained Congressional pressure from both Tillis and Burr, the Department of Veterans Affairs announced that victims of Camp Lejeunes poisoned water who are diagnosed with one or more of eight illnesses will be granted disability status.
Description: The Department of Veterans Affairs initially refused to acknowledge that exposure to toxic chemicals in Camp Lejeunes water from 1953-1987 caused a number of serious illnesses that in some cases led to death. In 2012, the President signed Senator Burrs bill to require veterans and their families access to VA healthcare if they were stationed at the base and fell ill as a result. In 2015, the VA has expanded presumption to include disability compensation for eight conditions. The reversal demonstrates a major policy shift and a significant victory for victims of toxic exposure for decades at Camp Lejeune.
440th Airlift Wing:
Senators Burr and Tillis have engaged the various military services to ensure North Carolinas military readiness by maintaining the 440th Airlift Wing. The Senators introduced and passed an amendment requiring the Air Force to validate its plan to close the 440th Airlift Wing with the Army.
Description: The legislation postponed Air Force action to September 30th, 2016 and permits the Air Force to continue only after it validates its plan with the supported commanders. Air Force is implementing a plan to consolidate its C-130 fleet and reduce its overall number of C-130H. Under the current plan, the Air Force wants to deactivate the 440th Airlift Wing, a reserve airlift unit comprised of approximately 1300 personnel stationed at Pope Army Airfield. The Air Force contends it can support Fort Bragg from remote airbases; Army commanders contend it is logistically unfeasible and the 440th fulfills the most pressing training requirements of the global reaction force.
Seymour Johnson Air Force Base KC-46A Tanker:
Seymour Johnson was recently selected as the preferred alternative for the basing of the KC-46A tanker fleet over three other states. Seymour Johnson is currently undergoing an environmental study prior to the decision being final.
Description: Sens. Burr, Tillis and other members of Congress have advocated for Seymour Johnson as an ideal location for this new tanker fleet, which will be the first on the East Coast and an important element of military readiness. This preliminary study is an indicator that the Air Force is serious about basing the tanker fleet at Seymour Johnson.
Military Sex Offender Reporting Act of 2015:
Signed into law in June of 2015.
Description: The Military Sex Offender Reporting Act of 2015 (MSORA), introduced by Senator Burr, requires the Department of Defense to directly report sex offenders convicted or punished under article 47 of the Uniform Military Code of Justice (UCMJ) to the National Sex Offender Registry (NSOR) administered by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Dru Sjodin National Sex Offender Public Website. Previously, sex offenders convicted under UCMJ were required to self-report to a local jurisdiction upon their release. A Department of Defense Inspector General report issued in 2014 revealed an estimated 242 of 1,312 released sex offenders failed to self-report under the previous law. Given the significant DOD communities in 2015, under these new laws, communities can be fully aware of former offenders in their neighborhood.
C-123 Toxic Exposure to Agent Orange:
Department of Veteran Affairs extended presumptive condition status for Agent Orange exposure to veterans serving on C123K aircraft after Vietnam.
Description: The VAs reversal of position came after four years of Congressional pressure and multiple medical studies. The latest Institute of Medicines report on Post-Vietnam Dioxin Exposure in Agent Orange-Contaminated C-123 Aircraft left the VA with little choice but to begin approving claims after sustained pressure from Congress. Senator Burr first began pressing for answers in 2011.
The Omnibus Bill passed by the House and Senate includes a number of important military construction projects for North Carolina.
Navy Procurement
 
6 additional F-35B for Marine Corps aviation.
 
Air Force Procurement
 
KC-46A  Tankers to be stationed at Seymour Johnson.
C-130H Modernization  Air National Guard. Improvements to include 145th Airlift Wing in Charlotte, NC
 
 
Engine Modifications - $33,200,000
8 Blade Propellers - $10,000,000
In flight prop balancing - $1,500,000
Electronic Propeller Control System - $13,500,000
Avionics upgrades - $70,000,000
 
Army National Guard
 
Apache Helicopters  Sec. 8120 prohibits any funds from being used to transfer more than the previously agreed upon 48 Apache helicopters from the National Guard to the active Army prior to June 30, 2016.
 
Military Construction
North Carolina will receive $412 million in specified Military Construction.
Approved projects include:
 
Camp Lejeune: 2nd Radio Battalion Complex Operations Consolidation, Simulator Integration/Range Control Facility, Special Operations Combat Service Support Facility, Special Operations Marine Battalion Company/Team Facilities
Cherry Point Marine Corps Air Station: KC 130J Enlisted Air Crew Trainer Facility, Unmanned Aircraft System Facilities
New River: Operational Trainer Facility, Radar Air Traffic Control Facility Addition
Seymour Johnson AFB: Air Traffic Control Tower/Base Ops Facility
Fort Bragg: Butner Elementary School Replacement, SOF 21 STS Operations Facility, Special Operations Battalion Operations Facility, Special Operations Indoor Range, Special Operations Intelligence Training Center, Special Operations Special Tactics Facility
Charlotte/Douglas IAP: Replace C-130 Squadron Operations Facility
 
			
			
			
		
		
	
	  

	
	
	
	
	 
		
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https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release_full.cfm?id=361829,"Senator Mike Crapo Delivers the Republican 
Christmas Address",2015-12-24,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,ID,Michael Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,,,legacy,"December 24, 2015
			 Senator Mike Crapo Delivers the Republican Christmas Address 
			
			
  'We all know people in our communities who are making good things happen. They reach out to those who are hurting, shelter those without and demonstrate examples of selfless service throughout our great nation. Many devote countless hours to lessening the burdens of others. To all those giving Americans serving others, please know that you are setting lasting examples.'

WASHINGTON, D.C. - In the Weekly Republican Address, Sen. Mike Crapo of Idaho delivers a holiday message that recognizes the importance of service to others and thanks the men and women who strive to keep our nation and its citizens safe, both at home and abroad. 'Thank you, to all our first responders and law enforcement officers who serve in the face of evil,"" says Crapo. ""And to the men and women of our military, many of whom are far from home right now missing their families and the joys of this holiday season, we thank you.' 
Video of Crapo's remarks is available here.
A full transcript of the address follows:
""Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays. I am Mike Crapo and I represent the people of the great state of Idaho in the United States Senate.
""This season is a time to gather with loved ones and celebrate the birth of our savior, Jesus Christ. An important part of Christmas is remembering our Father's love. God loved us so very much that He sent His Son to earth so that we may better understand that love.
""As we love and care for our families, strive to protect them, and always no matter how grown our children get, long for what is best for them, we can start to grasp the magnitude of God's love and reflect it not only throughout the Christmas season, but also every day. For many families, this time of year is when children learn charity and service to others, and realize that giving to others, is always more important than receiving.
""For those of different faiths, including those who choose not to observe a higher power or any religious faith, this season is observed with many different traditions. The season is a reminder of one of our greatest American values ensured by our Constitution: the freedom of religion. Many families spend the holidays volunteering to serve others in our communities. The diversity of our celebration is part of the magic of Christmas. It brings people together in so many different ways, especially in service to others.
""We all know people in our communities who are making good things happen. They reach out to those who are hurting, shelter those without and demonstrate examples of selfless service throughout our great nation. Many devote countless hours to lessening the burdens of others. To all those giving Americans serving others, please know that you are setting lasting examples. Acts as seemingly small as caring words or holding a door generate a current of kindness. Thank you, for the love and kindness you share. 
""As we gather together with our loved ones this Christmas, let us not forget to take time to enjoy the little and the big things more: The joy in the eyes of children; the laughs of friends and family; the snow covered trees; the food on our tables; clean water and heat-and all the many other blessings we have as Americans.
""This year, we have witnessed both abroad and at home the real threats to our way of life. Yet in the face of these unspeakable acts of terror, men and women still selflessly volunteer themselves to defend families, neighbors, communities and our nation. Thank you, to all our first responders and law enforcement officers who serve in the face of evil. And to the men and women of our military, many of whom are far from home right now missing their families and the joys of this holiday season, we thank you. Your sacrifice and dedication to your country is a debt we can never fully repay. The men and women of our military routinely give so much of themselves so that the rest of us, as a nation, can remain free. And to the families, the many military families across this country, who set an extra place at their tables in honor of a loved one deployed in the service of our nation, we thank you. You too bear the cost of our freedoms and protection of Americans at home and abroad.
""For many, 2015 has been a year of great challenges and impactful events. The terrorist attacks and the continued struggle of millions across America and around the world are a glaring reminder that we cannot take our well-being for granted. As this year draws to a close, I hope that those who have struggled will find optimism in the dawn of a new year. These challenges will unite us and our compassion will match our strength.
""We live in a beautiful world with some very dark corners. I pray that more light can be shed into the dark corners throughout this Christmas season and the year ahead and that God's love can be felt and reflected in every corner of our hearts, of our country and the world.
""God bless you all and Merry Christmas.""
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https://www.gardner.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/gardner-wishes-coloradans-a-merry-christmas,Gardner Wishes Coloradans a Merry Christmas,2015-12-24,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,CO,Cory Gardner,G000562,www.gardner.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington U.S. Senator Cory Gardner (R-CO) released the following statement marking Christmas:
Jaime and Iwish all Coloradans andAmericans across the countrya Merry Christmas on this joyous day. We are so blessed to live in thegreatest nation on Earth,and it is important to take this time toreflect on all that we have to be thankful for andto spend time with family and friends.
Iwant to recognize the men and women in uniformwhohave made enormous sacrifices to keep our country safe. Many of our servicemembers areaway from their families this Christmas, and it is important to remember theirdedication to this great nation. I thank them for their service and pray for their safety.
Merry Christmas and happy New Year.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murkowski.senate.gov/press/release/murkowski-wishes-alaskans-a-merry-christmas-and-happy-holidays,Murkowski Wishes Alaskans a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays,2015-12-24,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,AK,Lisa Murkowski,M001153,www.murkowski.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.24.15
			 Murkowski Wishes Alaskans a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays 
			
			Today U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski shared her thoughts with Alaskans this holiday season: 
The end of the year is often regarded as a time of celebration, a time of hope, and a time of reflection. And as we gather with our family and friends this year, I encourage you to cherish those you love, and give thanks for that which we hold most dear. Let's also make time to think about the achievements and progress in the past year, and resolve to build upon them. As Alaskans we are blessed with incredible resources; an abundant land and a spirit of ingenuity not least among them. Let us count them among our blessings as we spend time with our loved ones this holiday season.

(Click image to watch video.)
This time of year is also the season of giving, and while we tend to get caught in the rush of Christmas shopping and holiday parties, let us not forget those in need and make volunteering a year-round tradition. Alaskans know that the smallest gesture or gift can make a world of difference, and we can all find a way to make a difference in our community. 
And finally, let us not forget the men and women who serve to protect our country all over the world, many of whom are unable to spend the holidays with their families. To all of our service members and their families, their loved ones: we thank you for your service and all that you do for our nation.
I wish you and your family the very best. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays.
			
			
			
		
		
		
	
    
    
	
	
    
	
	
	
		
	
    
	
     
	
 
	
    
    
		
		
		
		
		
		
		
		
		
		
		  
		
	
	  

	
	
	
	
	 
		
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https://www.paul.senate.gov/news/dr-mrs-rand-paul%E2%80%99s-christmas-message,Dr. & Mrs. Rand Pauls Christmas Message,2015-12-24,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,KY,Rand Paul,P000603,www.paul.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Rand Paul and his wife, Kelley Paul, delivered the following message in celebration of Christmas and the holiday season. The video and transcript can be found below.
CLICK HERE TO WATCH DR. AND MRS. RAND PAUL'S CHRISTMAS MESSAGE


TRANSCRIPT
Merry Christmas!As families come together this time of year to give thanks and rejoice in the holiday season, Kelley andI would like to offer our very best wishesto the hard-working families in Kentucky, and across this great nation.

With the Christmas season upon us,let us pause for a moment and remember our brave men and women serving our country and protecting our freedom at home and abroad. We thank you and your families for all the sacrifices you make. 

We would also like to extend our prayers and wishes to the families across the Commonwealth of Kentucky  from the horse farms to the coal mines, from the family-owned small businesses to the factories creating products shared worldwide. Your hard work makes the Bluegrass State proud.

May your holiday be filled with love and your New Year rich with God's blessings.

From our families to yours, merry Christmas and happy holidays!

###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398636,"<span class=""kicker"">Asbury Park Press article</span>'WWII veteran finally receives his medals'",2015-12-23,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,NJ,Christopher Smith,S000522,chrissmith.house.gov,,,legacy,"BY DAN RADEL, ASBURY PARK PRESS STAFF WRITER  At 90 years old, Alfred Caponigro has received many gifts -- but this year, his familygavehim one of the greatest presentsthey could his long-lostservice medals.
The World War IIveteran is battling cancerbut no one couldtell that from the joy on his face when he wassurrounded in hishome by his family members Tuesday night -- and his long-delayed gift.
""I think there's27 grandchildren and 25 great-great children, or it's the other way,"" jokedhis daughter Elena Mazza, about their very large Italian-American family.
The medals arrived byspecial delivery fromRep.Chris Smith (R-N.J.) who came bearingtheeight medals and ribbons thatCaponigro earned but never collected for hisservice to the country.
""It is witha sincere gesture of gratitude that I give you these. You earned them. You are the greatest generation,"" Smith said, sitting next toCaponigro in hisliving room, the two gentlemen clasped in a handshake.
For a short moment the veteran was teary eyed.

Caponigro was born in Montclair on June 21,1925,a first-generation Italian-American. His parents came to the United States fromLacedonia, Italy when they were teenagers.




When he was 17 he joined the U.S. Navy with the help of his parent's signature because he was too young to enlist without their consent.



""I thought it was the right thing to do,"" he said.
He was a part of the D-Day invasion,what Smith called the ""decisive battle ofWorld War II."" He lost his hearing during the battle and suffered another injury to his hand went he got hit byshrapnel. For the rest of his life he wore hearing aids.
""The sky was blacked out from the planes,"" Caponigro recalled of the D-Day.
It did not stop him from raising seven children or making a career at DuMont Laboratories, before taking a job at Fort Monmouth for the U.S. Department of Defense.
""My grandmother who passed away a couple of years ago started the exercise of trying to retrieve medals and accommodations he might have earned as a result of his service,"" said his grandson Robert Williams. ""My grandfather didn't ask for any of this. If you ask him what his legacy is, itwould be his children,his grand-children and his great grandchildren.""
One of the medals Caponigro received was the French Legion of Honor,the highest honor France bestows on non-French citizens Smith said.
Caponigro was also awarded the World War II Victory Medal, the American Campaign Medal, European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, Honorable Service Ribbon, Navy Honorable Discharge Label, and the N.J. Distinguished Service Medal.
Even Caponigro's great grandchildren understood the importance of the medals he finally received.
""Poppy is a good man. He helps others. During the war there was a big bomb and he lost his hearing.One time he was at our school because it was Veteran's Day,"" offered his 7-year old great granddaughter Marissa Williams. This article originally ran on Dec. 23, 2015 on Page one of the Asbury Park Press., and can be could online at:
http://www.app.com/story/news/local/eatontown-asbury-park/2015/12/22/wwii-vet-receives-medals-death-bed-chris-smith/77749008/",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398637,"<span class=""kicker"">***Ocean Twp. vet, 90, never received medals after the war***</span>Monmouth Co. World War II Vet Presented Medals for Service",2015-12-23,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,NJ,Christopher Smith,S000522,chrissmith.house.gov,,,legacy,"U.S. Congressman Chris Smith (NJ-04) presented long-overdue medals to Alfred Caponigro of Ocean Township, Monmouth County, on Dec. 22, nearly 73 years to the day after the veteran enlisted in the U.S. Navy.

  Mr. Caponigro enlisted Dec. 28, 1942, and fought in the Battle of Normandy on D-Day and the days afterward off Utah Beach on the coastal patrol vessel PC 1176, the sister ship of which was sunk during the battle. During his service, he became deaf and was discharged with a 100 percent disability rating by the Navy.  In front of many of the veterans seven children, 25 grandchildren and 27 great-grandchildren and other friends and family at the veterans home, Smith presented Mr. Caponigro with:

 
    World War II Victory Medal
    American Campaign Medal
    European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal
    Combat Action Ribbon
    Honorable Service Lapel
    Navy Honorable Discharge Lapel
    NJ State Distinguished Service Medal
 
Smith also presented him with the French Legion of Honor, the highest honor France bestows on non-French citizens. Smith asked the French Consulate in New York to expedite the medal. Smith sent a letter to the National Archives National Person Records Center requesting the medals be issued. The Navy approved the medals and Smith received the medals in November.

 It is witha sincere gesture of gratitude that I give you these, said Smith, who was the chairman of the Veterans Committee in the House of Representatives for four years. You earned them. You are the greatest generation. 

 A humble man, Mr. Caponigro said he would not accept medals after the war because of all of the other Americans who didnt make it back, or who lost limbs and other injuries. His family, in particular his grandson Bob Williams, encouraged him to seek the medals for the familys history, and he contacted Smiths office in September for assistance.

 Smith has written 13 bills that have been enacted into law to assist veterans.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://hunter.house.gov/press-release/reps-hunter-kinzinger-commend-air-force-decision-miley-gate-controversy,Reps. Hunter & Kinzinger commend Air Force decision in Miley-Gate controversy,2015-12-23,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,CA,Duncan Hunter,H001048,hunter.house.gov,,,legacy,"Reps. Hunter &amp; Kinzinger commend Air Force decision in Miley-Gate controversy               
                  
      
                                                  
                  
        
        
        
        
  
    
    
    Washington, DC--The Air Force today informed several of its instructor pilots involved in the Laughlin texting controversyreferred to as Miley-Gatethat their aeronautical orders will be immediately reinstated. U.S. Representatives Duncan Hunter (CA-50) and Adam Kinzinger (IL-16) intervened in the case, after learning that several instructor pilots were wrongfully accused and punished for illegal drug use due to suggestive personal text messages that were recovered during an unrelated investigation. It was determined, through a review process ordered by the Air Force Chief of Staff, that allegations of drug use are unsubstantiated.
Representatives Hunter and Kinzinger made the following statement after their respective conversations with the Air Force Chief of Staff this morning:
While its our belief that the initial action taken against the pilots by the Air Force was unjust, we have been impressed with the seriousness and speed by which these cases have been corrected. Overall, we are content with the outcome and commend the Air Force for doing the right thing. General Welsh demonstrated quality leadership and sound judgment throughout this processand we are grateful for his personal attention to these cases.  
We do remain concerned, however, with the parts of the military justice system that seem to permit the unjustified seizure and misrepresentation of personal text messagesand we intend to address this issue. Its important that this doesnt happen again.
We wish the pilots all the best in their flying careers and thank them for their service.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kevinmccarthy.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/mccathy-congress-leaders-tell-administration-to-follow-the-visa-waiver,"McCarthy, Congressional Leaders Tell Administration to Follow the Visa Waiver Program Law",2015-12-23,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,CA,Kevin McCarthy,M001165,kevinmccarthy.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.  Congressman Kevin McCarthy released the following statement on a letter sent by Congressional leaders urging the Administration to follow the new visa waiver program law in regards to Iran:
As I have stated before, Secretary Kerrys concerning letter to Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif implying that the Administration could choose to exempt those who travel to and from Iran from the new visa waiver program requirements goes against Congresss express intent and the spirit of the law. 
""The Administration was an active participant in discussions when Congress drafted the visa waiver program legislation and it knows full well that those who travel to and from Iran cannot be granted a blanket exception from the law. Several House chairmen and I sent a letter to Secretaries Kerry and Johnson underscoring the meaning of the law and Congresss concern over Secretary Kerrys letter. There is no ambiguity. The Administration should follow the law as written and agreed to.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://lamborn.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1454,Christmas 2015 Statement,2015-12-23,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,CO,Doug Lamborn,L000564,lamborn.house.gov,,,legacy,"Christmas 2015 Statement 
   
    
       
      
  
    
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        Colorado Springs,
        December 23, 2015
      
       
    
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
    
      
      
      Christmas is a blessed time of year. During this marvelous season, we celebrate the birth of Christ and spend time with friends, family, and loved ones gathered around hearth and home. As we reflect on the year gone by and the days to come, let us be thankful for our blessings, mindful of the needs of the less fortunate, and conscious of the challenges ahead. I wish you a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
- Congressman Doug Lamborn (CO-05)
    
  
  
  
    
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http://noem.house.gov/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=4A7F5015-BC3F-4DB7-96C5-A36AF5180EFF,Weekly Column: Learning Something from Yesterday,2015-12-23,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,SD,Kristi Noem,N000184,noem.house.gov,,,legacy,"It has been an honor to serve you again this year. As we prepare to start 2016, I couldnt help but reflect on what a year it has been.
I started 2015 with an appointment to the historic House Ways and Means Committee, which handles all tax, trade and economic growth policies. As the first South Dakotan to serve on this committee, its been a tremendous opportunity to make sure our priorities and values are reflected in the nations largest debates.
Just days into the new year, the House passed the Keystone XL Pipeline Act with bipartisan support. This bill would have allowed work to begin. While Republicans and Democrats in the Senate also agreed to the legislation, the President vetoed it. In doing so, he deprived South Dakota of good jobs, millions of dollars in revenue for cash-strapped counties, and congestion relief for the roads and rails.
This was one of the first of more than 300 bills the House would pass throughout 2015. We also voted on a permanent repeal of the death tax, a bill to hold sanctuary cities accountable, and measures to rein in federal regulators. Although none of these items on our conservative agenda received the Presidents signature, there were a handful of areas where we found common ground with members from both parties.

Over the last few years, Ive advocated for legislation to combat human trafficking. On May 29, we earned a major victory when the President signed our bipartisan Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act, which included provisions I wrote with the needs of South Dakota and our children in mind.

We also passed a bipartisan Trade Promotion Authority bill, which put tools in place to hold the Obama administration accountable for meeting the trade objectives set by Congress. This legislation is already making an impact. Because of it, the public has full access to the pending Trans Pacific Partnership before Congress can act on it. That gives everyone time to review it and make sure its a good deal for America.
After more than 13 years under No Child Left Behind, Congress also overhauled our federal education policy, finally getting us away from the federal government micromanaging local classrooms. In the bill, we gave states more flexibility, empowered parents, modernized the Impact Aid program, and stopped the federal government from pressuring schools into adopting specific academic standards, like Common Core.
Additionally, I helped drive forward the first long-term highway bill in a decade to make sure South Dakota farmers, businesses and families would continue to have access to a safe and reliable infrastructure. With 80,000 miles of roadway, 6,000 bridges, and thousands of miles of railways in South Dakota, it was critical that we give state and local governments more certainty, control and flexibility when addressing infrastructure problems. The Fixing Americas Surface Transportation Act accomplished that.

Finally, we passed legislation to protect hardworking South Dakotans from pending tax hikes. In the package, we made improvements to 529 college savings plans, offered a permanent deduction for certain classroom expenses teachers take on, and permanently extended Section 179, which is important to many farmers and ranchers. The package also included an extension of the biodiesel tax credit through 2016 and stopped Obamacares medical device tax from taking effect until at least 2017.
Beyond legislative initiatives, Im proud of the personal impact our office has made in the lives of many South Dakotans. Weve assisted more than 600 constituents who faced problems when trying to adopt a child, pay their taxes, receive veterans or Medicare benefits, and more. Weve also been able to show more than 130 South Dakota groups around the U.S. Capitol and made more than 170,000 calls to constituents to make sure you knew what I was doing.
There is much more to be done, but as John Wayne said, Tomorrow hopes we have learned something from yesterday.
Thank you for the opportunity to serve South Dakota. Have a happy New Year!",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://reichert.house.gov/press-release/rep-reicherts-statement-states-early-release-prisoners,Rep. Reichert's Statement on State's Early Release of Prisoners,2015-12-23,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,WA,Dave Reichert,R000578,reichert.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today, Congressman Dave Reichert (R-WA) made the following statement in response to Gov. Jay Inslee's announcement that the Washington State Department of Corrections has mistakenly released thousands of prisoners early over the past thirteen years: Yesterdays news of yet another mishap by the Department of Corrections is as disturbing as it is infuriating. Over the past several months I have heard from folks throughout Washington state who are deeply concerned and baffled by the decisions coming out of Olympia.
Over the summer I was notified by victims of one of the most heinous crimes in Washingtons history that the Indeterminate Sentence Review Board was considering the early release of Timothy Pauley, a man serving three life sentences for a triple homicide in 1980. As one of the detectives who carried the bodies of his victims out of the building where he and his accomplice tortured and killed three people and left two more for dead, I can attest to it being one of the worst crime scenes weve ever processed. Unfortunately, it appears the ISRB believes 35 years in prison will suffice for the three life sentences he was given.
Numerous people including victims, lawyers, and King County Prosecuting Attorney, Dan Satterberg have called into question the method used to calculate Pauleys minimum sentence. We now know it is not only Pauleys sentence but thousands of others that have been miscalculated by the DOC. Ultimately those questions were ignored, and the ISRB is moving forward with a hearing on Pauleys release on January 5th, less than two weeks from today. Whats worse, Pauleys victims and their families were given little-to-no notice of previous hearings or decisions, and the Governor has refused to meet with them.
We also learned this summer that the DOC, again without notifying the victims families, moved the Green River Killer, Gary Ridgway from isolation in the Walla Walla State Penitentiary to a prison in Colorado where he would be able to mingle with the general population. Only after public outcry was the most prolific serial killer in U.S. history returned to solitary confinement in Washington. In total, the move cost taxpayers $40,000.
Now we have been told that the DOC has been miscalculating sentences for 13 years. Even more upsetting is that they have known about the error since 2012 and, until yesterday, have not bothered to address it or inform victims, law enforcement or the public. This is unacceptable. Our communities and the first responders dedicated to protecting them deserve better. We need to know who these 3,200 criminals are; what crimes they were convicted of and ultimately granted early release for; and exactly how the state is going to ensure this mass injustice is resolved.
Yesterdays announcement and the recent actions of the DOC are not isolated incidents; they are part of a much larger problem. In the eyes of the state, victims of crimes and their families are taking a back seat to the criminals who have caused them so much pain. The DOC, through its incompetence and the decisions by its ISRB, has shown it is more interested in reducing the sentences lawfully handed down by judges than ensuring justice is served.

###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://williams.house.gov/media-center/columns/looking-back-with-thanks-and-ahead-with-hope,Looking Back with Thanks and Ahead with Hope,2015-12-23,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,TX,Roger Williams,W000816,williams.house.gov,,,legacy,"As we approach the new year, it is a great time to reflect on 2015. While the past year has brought much frustration and disappointment from Washington, it is the Texas spirit of resolve, determination and willingness to confront challenges head-on that give me hope for the future.  
	  
	November marked six years since the unspeakable tragedy that occurred at Fort Hood. This year we were finally able to get the Obama Administration to admit the events that transpired on that fateful day were an act of terrorism and not workplace violence.  
	  
	In April, I attended an emotional ceremony at the Great Place where soldiers and their civilian counterparts received their Purple Hearts and Defense of Freedom medals that were so rightfully deserved. Although we will mourn this day every year, we can go forth knowing that these brave men and women were at last appropriately honored after making the ultimate sacrifice. But the spirit of resolve and determination neither starts nor ends at Fort Hood.  
	  
	Earlier this year, Texas was in the midst of the most extreme drought in recent memory. But in a cruel twist of fate, we got too much of what we so desperately needed. While many communities statewide were severely impacted by the flooding, some of the worst damage occurred in the southern portion of the 25th district.  
	  
	In what should have been another kickoff to summer marked by barbeques and baseball, many will instead remember this past Memorial Day weekend as the time when the rising waters of the Blanco River ripped through properties and devastated families. As I said at the time, the strong Texas spirit of resolve proved more powerful than Mother Natures fury.  
	  
	Sure enough, the people of Wimberley took care of each other, looked out for their own and pushed forward. Remarkably, one month later, local news stations declared Wimberley was open for business. Today, flattened foundations along the river bring back painful memories, but open signs in restaurants and shops remind us that our willpower rose higher than the floodwaters.  
	  
	That same individualism remains true when our nation is faced with a threat that our president refuses to identify  radical Islamist extremism. In July, Muhammad Youssef Abdulazeez killed four marines and a sailor when he fired upon two military installations in Tennessee. Inaction from our commander-in-chief prompted Texans to stand watch at military recruiting offices in Cleburne. The group appropriately named themselves Operation Hero Guard.  
	  
	Our military holds a special place in my heart. Their selfless devotion to our country is admirable and their humility is something we can all learn from. We are lucky to have such fine men and women in our state, and I am lucky to have them in our district.  
	  
	In April, I had the pleasure of meeting Richard Overton, the oldest living combat veteran in America. He resides in the same house he purchased when he returned to Austin after World War II. At 109 years old, he is full of life and laughter. During my visit to Fort Hood in April, I was reunited with Sgt. Alonzo Lunsford who was my guest to the State of the Union two years ago. Sgt. Lunsford was shot seven times during the terrorist attack on Fort Hood. He is an inspiration to me, and I am proud to call him my friend.  
	  
	So while I share much disagreement with this current administration and am far too often appalled by its tactics and agenda, I remind myself of my duty to look out for the best interests of the wonderful Texans whom I have the pleasure of serving. Have a very Merry Christmas and a safe and happy new year.  
	  
	- Congressman Roger Williams  
	  
	Congressman Williams (R  Austin) represents the 25th congressional district of Texas. Williams serves on the Financial Services Committee and is the chairman of the House Conservatives Fund.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.hoeven.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ContentRecord_id=e9274571-c7e2-47c5-afbb-8c23e8915779,Hoeven Holds Meeting with Minot Leaders to Plan Next Steps for Comprehensive Flood Protection,2015-12-23,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.23.15
			 Hoeven Holds Meeting with Minot Leaders to Plan Next Steps for Comprehensive Flood Protection  
			
				
	
	
	
	
	 
	
	
			
		
	
	
	
		
		
		
		
		
		
		
		
		
		
		
		
			
		
        
				 Year-End Funding Bill Provides Provisions for Flood Protection, Minot Air Force Base, Tax Relief
			
			 MINOT, N.D. Senator John Hoeven today hosted a meeting with state and local officials to plan the steps going forward for building comprehensive flood protection for Minot and the region. The senator outlined key provisions in the year-end funding legislation Congress passed last week that will support their efforts. In addition, he outlined provisions in the measure to support Minot Air Force Base and provide tax relief for farmers, ranchers and small businesses.
In the year-end funding legislation we passed last week, we secured authorization and funding for new project studies, which are essential for communities like Minot that are working to advance a comprehensive flood protection project, Hoeven said. The legislation also includes priorities that will strengthen national security, including provisions for Minot Air Force Base, which hosts two legs of the nations nuclear triad. The measure also provides real tax relief for farmers, ranchers and small businesses, who will now be able to expense equipment and repairs at the current limit because weve worked to make Section 179 permanent.
 
Permanent Flood Protection  As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Hoeven worked to include critical authorization and funding for new project starts and construction in the FY 2016 budget. The measure provides nearly $690 million more than the Army Corps of Engineers proposed budget for new studies and construction activity that will help to advance the permanent flood protection project in the Minot region. Hoeven worked on the Appropriations Committee to include language in the FY 2016 Energy and Water funding bill, which has now been included in the year-end legislation. Specifically, the legislation will:
 
 
Provide permission for the Corps to begin studies of new permanent flood protection projects, which is vital for communities like Minot, as well as the Souris River basin, to build comprehensive flood protection.
Help communities in N.D. build permanent flood protection projects with an emphasis on public private partnerships (P3).
Include additional funding for FEMAs flood mapping activities. It directs FEMA to take local communities flood protection projects into consideration when mapping flood hazards and to coordinate the mapping process with the phases of large projects.
The measure provides an additional $165 million above the FY 2015 level for flood mitigation programs and boosts the Flood Hazard Mapping and Risk Analysis Program by $66 million, from $124 million to $190 million and the Pre-Disaster Mitigation (PDM) Grant Program to $100 million.
 
 
Support for Minot Air Force Base  The year-end appropriations measure prioritizes the need for a strong military strengthening the nations nuclear triad of bombers, land-based and submarine-based missiles.
 
 
Cruise Missile Warhead  Includes full funding, $195 million, to refurbish the warhead that will go on the new Air Force long range standoff (LRSO) cruise missile.
Nuclear Force Structure  Includes language Hoeven authored that directs the Department of Defense (DoD) to maintain U.S. nuclear forces at the levels agreed to in the New START Treaty, rather than reduce them, as the administration has proposed.
Minuteman III Replacement  $75 million for the next generation intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), which will replace the current Minuteman III.
B-52 Modernization  $225.4 million to modernize the B-52, including programs to improve its communications equipment and upgrade the internal bomb bay.
 
 
Tax Relief  The measure provides more than $680 billion in tax relief, including permanently extending the Section 179 limitation, the number one priority for farmers, ranchers and small businesses.
 
 
Section 179 and Bonus Depreciation  Permanently extends Section 179 with the $500,000 limitation, a provision of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) tax code that allows farmers, ranchers and small businesses to expense the purchase of equipment. In addition, it extends the bonus depreciation allowance for five years.
Prevents the Implementation of Obamacare Taxes  Includes regulatory relief from Obamacares costly and burdensome mandates, including a two-year delay of the tax on businesses that pay their employees health care plans, a two-year delay of the Medical Device Tax and a one-year delay of the Health Insurance Tax (HIT) paid by insurance companies. It also eliminates funding for the Independent Payment Advisory Board (IPAB). 
Low Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC)  LIHTC is a dollar-for-dollar tax credit for private investments made for the construction or rehabilitation of affordable housing are distributed to states and developers compete for the credits. The N.D. Housing Finance Agency uses the credits with state programs to address North Dakotas housing challenges.
 
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http://www.hoeven.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/public-events?ContentRecord_id=f82d6e14-722a-47c2-8df3-127831553205,Minot Flood Protection Public Meeting,2015-12-23,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Event 
	
	
	
	

	
			
		
		
		
			
				
				December 23 2015 11:00 AM
				
					
					On Wednesday, Hoeven will hold a meeting at Minot City Hall to outline the year-end funding bill that passed the Senate earlier today. The legislation includes nearly $690 million more than the Army Corps of Engineers proposed budget for construction and authorizes new studies and construction activity that will help to advance flood protection projects in both the Fargo-Moorhead and the Minot regions.
WHEN: Wednesday, December 23
11:00 a.m. CT
WHERE: Minot City Hall
 515 2nd Avenue SW  Minot",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.murkowski.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=48a4d17f-a610-48cd-af6e-36966ba25449,"Two Years Later, Still No Help for King Cove",2015-12-23,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,AK,Lisa Murkowski,M001153,www.murkowski.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.23.15
			 Two Years Later, Still No Help for King Cove 
			
				
	
	
	
	
	 
	
	
			
		
	
	
	
		
		
		
		
		
		
		
		
		
		
		
		
			
		
        
				 Obama Administration Has Failed to Act Despite 38 More Medevacs
			
			 U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, today issued the following statement to mark the two-year anniversary of the Obama administrations heartless rejection of a short, life-saving road for the isolated village of King Cove, Alaska.
I will never understand how the administration made its initial decision, or why it has continued to fail the people of King Cove ever since. Instead of protecting human lives, the administration has only managed to waste scarce resources on a shallow study of inferior alternatives.
King Cove has endured at least 38 more medevacs over the past two years, including 14 that required the men and women of the Coast Guard to risk their own lives in terrible conditions. The worst part is, if King Cove were a foreign village claiming it was threatened by climate change, the administration would be scrambling to send millions of taxpayer dollars its way.
It has been two years to date since I got the call from Secretary Jewell rejecting this life-saving road and the good people of this isolated community deserve better. And I will keep fighting, every day, to protect their health and safety. This is a matter of life and death that has led to far too much needless suffering. I will never give up, and I will work harder than ever in 2016 to finally secure a life-saving road for King Cove.
In 2009, Murkowski won congressional and presidential approval of a nearly 300:1 land exchange needed to facilitate a narrow, gravel, non-commercial, 10-mile-long road through a small sliver of the Izembek National Wildlife Refuge. The road would provide emergency medical transportation out of King Cove during frequently extreme weather conditions by linking the village to the all-weather runway in nearby Cold Bay.
The Department of the Interior formally denied the life-saving road on December 23, 2013. The decision has left local residents fearful that they will be unable to reach proper medical care in emergency circumstances. In the absence of a road, some patients needing medevac have been forced to wait hours or even overnight until help could safely arrive to transport them.
More information about King Coves need for a life-saving road is available on the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committees website.
			
			
			
		
		
		
	
    
    
	
	
    
	
	
	
		
	
    
	
     
	
 
	
    
    
		
		
		
		
		
		
		
		
		
		
		  
		
	
	  

	
	
	
	
	 
		
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https://blum.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=459,Rep. Blum Announces Service Academy Nominations,2015-12-23,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,IA,Rod Blum,B001294,blum.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today, Congressman Rod Blum announced he has nominated 16 Iowa students to be considered for appointments to United States Service Academies.

It is a privilege for me to nominate these 16 students for service in the United States Military, said Congressman Blum. Their willingness to serve our great nation in our armed forces is truly appreciated by the entire First District and I wish them the best as they take the next step on their journey.

For more information on the process for Service Academy Nominations please visit Congressman Blums website.

Below is a full list of the students nominated by Congressman Blum.

United States Naval Academy

Gabrielle Tath, St Donatus

Evan Boss, Central City

Finbar Berry, Cedar Rapids

Andrew Segalla, Bellevue

Rizwan Sidhu, Cedar Rapids

John Taylor, Cedar Rapids

Garrett Dunn, State Center

Patrick Ramirez, State Center

Daniel Holt, Marion

Alexander Hepperle, West Union

Joseph Zasadny, Walker

Thomas Treptau, Lansing

 

United States Military Academy

Finbar Berry, Cedar Rapids

Jonas Mason, Cedar Rapids

Christian Flege, Waverly

Garrett Dunn, State Center

Patrick Ramirez, State Center

Samuel Pisney, Cedar Rapids

Joseph Zasadny, Walker

Zachary Gilbert, Cedar Rapids

 

United States Air Force Academy

Samuel Pisney, Cedar Rapids

Daniel Holt, Marion

Thomas Treptau, Lansing

Finbar Berry, Cedar Rapids

Patrick Ramirez, State Center

Rod Blum is the Republican Congressman in Iowas 1st District. He is a member of the Budget and Oversight &amp; Government Reform Committees.

###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://comstock.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/ashburn-patch-loudoun-county-host-dea-exhibit,Ashburn Patch: Loudoun County to Host DEA Exhibit,2015-12-23,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,VA,Barbara Comstock,C001105,comstock.house.gov,,,legacy,"The national touring exhibit Drugs: Costs and Consequences opens on January 12, 2016 at 750 Miller Drive, SE, Suite F-1 in Leesburg, Virginia, and will be open Tuesday through Saturday, 10 AM to 5 PM, free of charge, until September 10, according to a Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) announcement. 
Read more at the Ashburn Patch here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z