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://morgangriffith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=399069,Congressman Griffith's Weekly E-Newsletter 12.31.18,2018-12-31,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,VA,Morgan Griffith,G000568,morgangriffith.house.gov,,,legacy,"The year 1619 does not loom as large in American memory as some others from our colonial experience. When thinking of those early times of English settlement in North America, 1607, the year Jamestown was founded, and 1620, when the Pilgrims landed in what is now Massachusetts, are more likely to come to mind.
Yet the events of 1619 had a profound impact. They are worth remembering as we enter 2019 and mark the passage of 400 years.
One of them was a great stain: the beginning of slavery in English North America, with the first record of enslaved Africans arriving in Jamestown. While slavery ended with the Thirteenth Amendment passed by a Republican Congress in 1865 and subsequently ratified by the states, its effects still linger.
Another event marked a major shift in the culture of Jamestown: the first large-scale recruitment of women to the colony. While some women had arrived earlier, the settlement retained the overall character of the soldiers and adventurers who had first established it. The Virginia Company's recruitment of about 90 women introduced families into the social fabric of the colony and gave it longer-term prospects.
A third event was one of our Commonwealth's signal contributions to the American story.
In a church in Jamestown on July 30, the Governor, four councilors, and 22 burgesses representing the colony's jurisdictions gathered. They reviewed the laws imposed by the Virginia Company and its charter, regulated commerce and settler conduct, and heard grievances from the colonists.
That first session lasted less than a week, adjourning on August 4 due to the summer heat, but it was the beginning of what is today the House of Delegates, the oldest elected legislative body to have continuously met in the world.
I say continuously met as, although the Parliament of the United Kingdom has older roots than our House of Delegates (the rules of that first Assembly were modeled on English parliamentary procedure), during the rule of Oliver Cromwell in the 1650s Parliament was dissolved and substituted with the appointed Barebones Parliament and the Protectorate Parliaments.
Other legislative bodies had appointed members, but from the start, the House of Delegates was elected by at least a portion of its constituents. In the case of the first session, the male freeholders and tenants of the jurisdictions chose the burgesses.
Even if you take out continuously-serving and elected, Virginia's House of Delegates, which was subsequently confirmed in a charter by King James I a couple of years later, is without dispute the oldest legislative body in the New World.
The establishment of representative government in Virginia charted a path for what would become the thirteen British colonies. It was followed by the Mayflower Compact of 1620, in which the Pilgrims organized themselves as a self-governing body. Colonies that followed set up their own institutions for representative government. Instead of the mother country, the colonists exercised control over their own affairs to a large extent.
Because Virginia had a lot of practice with representative government, our Commonwealth was ready to lead when the colonies sought independence. Virginia's governing documents and laws, including the Declaration of Rights and the Statute for Religious Freedom, would shape foundations of the new republic such as the Bill of Rights.
Among the Founders who served in the House of Burgesses or, as it became known after declaring independence from Britain, the House of Delegates were George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, Patrick Henry, George Mason, and James Monroe.
As we begin the new year, think about what was happening in Virginia 400 years ago. That span of time may be hard to fathom, but what happened that year still shapes us.
Slavery's introduction reminds us that human beings are capable of great cruelty to each other. The birth of representative government in the New World was a great accomplishment of humanity. It started the process toward our current republic based on democratic principles. The legislative process ultimately abolished slavery through the Thirteenth Amendment and guaranteed the right to vote for women through the Nineteenth Amendment, showing that our nation is always capable of improving.
The events of 1619 resonate down to our own time.
While 2019 is not as likely to have the historical significance of 1619, I hope it will be a happy and prosperous year for us all.
If you have questions, concerns, or comments, feel free to contact my office. You can call my Abingdon office at 276-525-1405 or my Christiansburg office at 540-381-5671. To reach my office via email, please visit my website at www.morgangriffith.house.gov. Also on my website is the latest material from my office, including information on votes recently taken on the floor of the House of Representatives.
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https://abraham.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/first-look-2019-elections,A First Look at the 2019 Elections,2018-12-31,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,LA,Ralph Abraham,A000374,abraham.house.gov,,,legacy,"Louisiana: Can John Bel Edwards overcome his state's partisanship?
Louisiana is arguably a step beyond Kentucky in its political evolution. It has a Democratic governor largely thanks to a Republican incumbent who screwed up even more egregiously than Matt Bevin: former wiz kid, congressman, and failed presidential candidate Bobby Jindal. Edwards, who was a Democratic leader in the state legislature, also benefited from a moderate-to-conservative ideological profile and a weakened opponent. That was U.S. Senator David Vitter, whoseadmitted patronage of a prostituteback in the day came up again and again as he struggled to beat other Republicans for a clear shot at Edwards in a runoff under the state's jungle primary system.
Edwards's best reelection break was the decision by U.S. Senator John Kennedy todeclinea much-rumored race for governor. Northern LouisianacongressmanRalph Abrahamquicklyjumped into the ringalong with self-funding businessman Eddie Rispone, and state treasurer John Schroder is also mulling a candidacy. As of October, Morning Consult showed Edwards with a good-but-not-greatapproval ratioof 47/34. Like Bevin, Edwards is rated amodest favoritebyCook Political Report. But with Bobby Jindal gone and partisan polarization on the steady rise, it could be close. And you have to figure Donald Trump will intervene early and often in the state he carried by nearly 20 points in 2016.
To read the full story, click here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://abraham.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/stephanie-grace-2019s-big-questions-including-some-are-already-answered,"Stephanie Grace: 2019's big questions, including some that are already answered",2018-12-31,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,LA,Ralph Abraham,A000374,abraham.house.gov,,,legacy,"In some ways, this year's New Year's prediction column is pretty painless to write, because 2018 ended with some big questions about the future already answered.
No,U.S. Sen. John Kennedywill not challenge Gov. John Bel Edwards for reelection, and nor will any other Republican who can match the incumbent's high profile. So 2019's marquee election starts off with a genuine stature gap between the Democratic Edwards and his currently announced Republican challengers, U.S. Rep. Ralph Abraham and Baton Rouge businessman Eddie Rispone (Edwards was just as unknown when he ran the first time, but there was no incumbent, which makes all the difference).
To read the full story, click here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns-and-op-eds/end-old-congress-beginning-new-year,"COLUMN: End of Old Congress, Beginning of New Year",2018-12-31,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,,,legacy,"As 2018 comes to a close, so does the 115th Congress. It is an honor to represent the diverse interests of the Fourth Congressional District, and I am especially proud of the accomplishments we achieved that will improve the quality of life in Central Washington.
One year after Congress passed historic tax relief for American taxpayers, we are seeing results in the form of higher paychecks, improved employee benefits, and growing small businesses. We are making it easier for Americans to save for their futures and encouraging innovation. I have heard stories from people across the Fourth District who are using their tax cuts and extra take-home pay to reinvest in our local communities. With the lowest unemployment rate in decades and hundreds of thousands of jobs being created each month, our country has a bright economic future.
One of the biggest economic drivers in our state is agriculture. As a farmer, I know first-hand the difficulties farmers and ranchers face in Central Washington, from scarce water resources and labor shortages to international trade and crop insurance. While there is still a lot of work left to be done, I have worked diligently with my colleagues and the Trump Administration to address each of these issues. I am pleased that Congress delivered on one of the most important pieces of agricultural legislation: the Farm Bill. The Farm Bill is only reauthorized every five years, but I am proud to have demonstrated its importance to Washington's unique agriculture industry by bringing numerous influential policymakers to meet with Central Washington farmers, including U.S. Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue, House Agriculture Committee Chairman Mike Conaway, Agriculture Subcommittee on Research Chairman Rodney Davis, and U.S. Agriculture Undersecretary Bill Northey. This bill will give farmers and ranchers the certainty they deserve and provide a safety net for the men and women in Washington state and across the country who produce the food that feeds America and the world.
Ensuring food security is one of the most important steps we can take to protect our communities, but Congress also took steps to alleviate the grief and pain caused by the growing opioid epidemic. I voted to support over 50 pieces of legislation that aim to prevent addiction and overdose, increase treatment options and alternative pain-management therapies, and give law enforcement agencies better tools to keep these dangerous drugs off the streets and out of our country. I was deeply moved to hear the personal stories from constituents affected by the opioid crisis at a symposium in Moses Lake, and I will continue to work on your behalf to stop these drugs from ravaging our communities.
While these pieces of legislation will do great things for Americans across the country, my proudest accomplishment is ensuring that our local voices are heard and that local heroes are honored. This year, my staff and I responded to over 13,000 phone calls, letters, and e-mails and assisted almost 400 constituents who were having trouble with a federal agency. When I learned that Sergeant Dietrich Schmieman of Richland was tragically killed in a military plane crash, I worked with his family to rename a Post Office in his honor. Working on the Appropriations Committee, I included language to ensure adequate funding for the Hanford cleanup and agricultural research and to prevent the privatization of the Bonneville Power Administration.
As we enter the 116th Congress and the New Year, the work is far from over. I look forward to making more progress on Central Washington's priorities.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://stefanik.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/stefanik-announces-maddie-anderson-serve-communications-director,Stefanik Announces Maddie Anderson to Serve as Communications Director,2018-12-31,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,NY,Elise Stefanik,S001196,stefanik.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC  Today, Congresswoman Elise Stefanik (R-NY-21) announced that Maddie Anderson will serve as Communications Director and media contact for the 116th Congress beginning on January 3rd, 2019.
""I am excited to announce that Maddie Anderson will be joining my team as Communications Director, said Congresswoman Stefanik. Maddie's myriad of experience in the political arena will bring a unique perspective to our office. Her work ethic and expertise will be pivotal in communicating the results our office is delivering for the 21st District.""
Maddie Anderson is from Annapolis, Maryland. Most recently, she served as the Southeast and Midwest Regional Press Secretary for the National Republican Congressional Committee. Prior to the NRCC, she served as Congressman Brian Mast's (FL-18) Communications Director for his 2016 campaign. Maddie Anderson also worked on Carlos Beruff's (R-FL) 2016 Senate race, and for Governor Bobby Jindal's (R-LA) presidential campaign in Iowa in 2015.
I'm thrilled to be joining Congresswoman Stefanik's office in the New Year, said Ms. Maddie Anderson. Congresswoman Stefanik's work ethic is unmatched, and I look forward to helping her bring meaningful, bipartisan results to New York's 21st District. I am eager to get to work.
Ms. Anderson will be replacing Deputy Chief of Staff and Communications Director, Tom Flanagin, who has accepted a position in the private sector.
I thank Tom for his four years of tireless work on behalf of our district, said Congresswoman Stefanik. Tom is a tremendous talent, and my office has greatly benefited from his creativity, drive and counsel. I know he will continue to do great things in his next position.
Maddie Anderson begins on January 3rd, 2019. In the meantime, please include stefanik.press@mail.house.gov and tom.flanagin@mail.house.gov on any press inquiries.
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https://woodall.house.gov/media-center/e-newsletter-archive/washington-watch-123118,Washington Watch - 12/31/18,2018-12-31,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,GA,Rob Woodall,W000810,woodall.house.gov,,,legacy,"PRESERVING OUR NATION'S FOOD STAMP PROGRAM FOR THOSE IN NEED
Under the direction of President Trump, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is working on regulations that would increase the solvency of one of our nation's most important social safety net programs, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), also commonly referred to as food stamps. SNAP benefits, which are intended to be used by those who are struggling to support themselves, including poverty-stricken parents and their children, the elderly, and the disabled, are too often being used by those who would otherwise not qualify for open-ended support, namely able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWDs) who are age 18-49.
Currently, ABAWDs are required to work or receive workforce training for a minimum of 20 hours per week if they want to receive SNAP benefits beyond 3 months in a given three-year period. However, states are given the discretion to waive that requirement for certain areas within their jurisdictions, which incentivizes millions of ABAWDs to stay out of the workforce. In fact, by some estimates, nearly 2.8 million ABAWDs are receiving food stamps, but aren't working. This waiver does a disservice to both ABAWDs and the folks who desperately need the SNAP support, not to mention the fact that this also contributes to our nation's historically low productivity rate and record high job openings. That's why I'm so pleased that USDA Secretary Sonny Perdue is going to work hard within his agency to ensure that ABAWDs who could and should look for work, are encouraged to do so. The success in our food stamp program is not measured in the number of individuals we keep as beneficiaries, but the number of folks we have helped get back on their feet to support themselves.

TRUMP ADMINISTRATION MOVES TO PROTECT 340B HOSPITALS AND HEALTH CARE PROVIDERS
In addition to the many steps the Trump Administration has taken to advance America's agricultural backbone, President Trump, with the help of Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services' Administrator Seema Verma and Department of Health and Human Services' Secretary Alex Azar, has had tremendous success on the regulatory front when it comes to delivering common-sense and long overdue solutions to better our nation's health care system. From proposals to drive down prescription drug prices, to allowing states to operate their insurance markets with more flexibility, to increasing choice and competition for consumers, I have repeatedly expressed my support for the Administration's use of the regulatory tools at its disposal to bring solutions to our friends and neighbors.
That said, I want to take this opportunity to share with you a more recent regulatory action taken by the Department of Health and Human Services that will surely work to ensure that drug makers are held accountable for overcharging hospitals that participate in the 340B drug pricing program. For those not familiar with the 340B program, it's a federal program that requires pharmaceutical companies to provide outpatient drugs to certain covered entities, most notably safety-net hospitals and care providers that serve a high percentage of low-income patients, like Grady Hospital for instance, at discounted prices. The 340B program enjoys bipartisan support in Congress and has been wildly successful in not only helping our most vulnerable hospitals keep up with rising prescription drug prices, but also allowing these entities to stretch already scarce federal resources so that they can provide more care to additional patients. In fact, the Department of Health and Human Services' Health Resources and Services Administration estimated that covered entities saved $3.8 billion on outpatient drugs through the program in fiscal year 2013, and $4.5 billion in fiscal year 2014.
However, as much as our safety net hospitals rely on this crucial program, the program's integrity has been susceptible to bad actors ever since its inception in 1992. As such, while there's still much work to be done on the legislative front to protect and bolster the 340B program's integrity, and I certainly hope that the 116th Congress will work across the aisle to deliver much needed clarity and protection, I am pleased that the Administration has moved forward with finalizing the date in which pharmaceutical companies can begin to be held accountable for intentional wrongdoing. I believe such bold action is a step in the right direction.

HOUSE PASSES MORE BIPARTISAN BILLS DURING SPENDING NEGOTIATIONS 
Amid the speculation and concern over the partial government shutdown, we in the House of Representatives rolled up our sleeves and continued working to deliver good public policy as the President and congressional leaders continued negotiating over the handful of remaining spending bills. We passed legislation to further crack down on human trafficking, to ensure the most vulnerable young girls in our society have access to educational opportunities, and to allow a process for more stakeholders to review key documents in cold case investigations that the FBI hasn't been able to solve. All of these bills were crafted with input from both Republicans and Democrats and were passed with overwhelming bipartisan majorities. A final bipartisan bill I want to highlight is the Foundations for Evidence-Based Policymaking Act. Previously, we empaneled a cross section of experts to determine how Congress, in conjunction with executive agencies, could make better use of the reams of available data relating to federal programs designed to lift families out of poverty and into opportunity. Rather than measure success based on how many dollars are being spent, our goal is to measure success based on how many lives are changed for the better. Many of their recommendations were included in this new legislation, which will give Congress and the American people a whole new set of tools to examine these federal programs and discover where we can make improvements that further results rather than red tape.

SECOND ROUND OF RELIEF FOR AMERICAN FARMERS
Earlier this month, President Trump announced additional relief for farmers negatively affected by retaliatory tariffs as the Administration continues to iron out the details on new trade agreements with our neighbors abroad. This round of direct payments to farmers is intended to supplement the relief offered to farmers over the summer as a bridge during ongoing trade negotiations. Payments are being offered to almond, cotton, corn, dairy, hog, sorghum, soybean, sweet cherry, and wheat producers, many of whom are located right here in Georgia where agriculture is our number one industry.
Talks looked promising after President Trump met with Chinese President Xi Jinping at the G20 Summit in Argentina, after which President Trump announced a delay in planned tariffs on Chinese goods and a tentative deal for China to resume purchasing American goods. While the short-term effects of renegotiation may not be ideal, maintaining the status quo was no longer an option. I am optimistic that President Trump will deliver better and fairer trade deals for American farmers and businesses, and ones that our international partners will see as mutually beneficial.

LOCAL PARENT STARTS NON-PROFIT ADDRESSING FOOD INSECURITY IN GWINNETT SCHOOLS
We are doers here in the Seventh District of Georgia. It's easy to talk about making a difference, but it takes a special kind of person to take the action needed to make the difference. Here at home we have example after example of folks doing just that: identifying a need and going about creating a way to address that need. It's inspiring every time. One of those examples is Alessandra Ferrara-Miller, a Suwanee resident, who had a realization when visiting her daughter's school for lunch. She had heard stories of children whose parents struggled to pay for school lunches, consequently leaving the students in a spot no child should have to endure. She looked around the cafeteria and knew similar situations existed for those in that room and school. She then set about doing something about it. She created and established All for Lunch, a non-profit organization intended to pay the school lunch accounts of those in need, and recently had the opportunity to present her first checks to certain Gwinnett County Schools!
I feel so much pride in who we are as a community and the example we set. In every way, we set a standard of care and excellence that warms the heart and changes lives. It's all a byproduct of who we are as individuals, families, communities, businesses, and more. Our values and the way we live out those values sets us apart. It's not something we do once a year or just during a certain season. Throughout the year, on a daily basis, remarkable things are happening and I am so thankful to all of those like Alessandra who simply won't accept anything less than improving the life of a neighbor. I can't think of a better message to take into the New Year!

CHAPTER 1030 VIETNAM VETERANS OF AMERICA IN CUMMING SELECTS VETERAN(S) OF THE YEAR
Settling on the most exemplary of our veterans in any given category is a very difficult task, so I can't say I fault the folks over at Chapter 1030 Vietnam Veterans of America for selecting two Veterans of the Year! Our veterans are special people. Service is a part of their character, and so often they continue to give to their communities in not just one, but so many ways. These two gentlemen were recognized for the work they're doing with Chapter 1030 to assist the homeless veteran population in Atlanta and North Georgia, and I'm grateful for their commitment to their brothers and sisters who have worn the uniform. If you'd like to learn more about how Chapter 1030 is making a difference across the region, you can visit their website and find information on upcoming events as well as some of their history. Congratulations once again to Tom Kirby and Steve Masak, and most of all, thank you both for all you continue to do for our community!

HAPPY NEW YEAR; WELCOME TO THE 116TH CONGRESS
With 2018 coming to a close and the new year beginning soon, we all naturally take time to pause and reflect. This is a time to be thankful for friends and family, to reflect on our lives and all that transpired in 2018, and to set new goals for 2019. And in this time, we in Congress must do the same as we look back at all we have achieved and all that we still have left to do. While I am optimistic that when the 116th Congress begins on January 3rd that we will continue to make targeted efforts to address some of our nation's most pressing issues, including infrastructure reform, healthcare reform, and tackling our national debt, I can't pretend that addressing these challenges will be easy in a divided Congress. In fact, I know that it will be hard work. However, I know my colleagues and I are up to the task. As we have proven in these past two years, the most successful legislation has come from collaborative discussions from leaders and individuals back home and from all political persuasions, and I look forward to building on those efforts to better serve our state and our community in the years to come. With that said, I want to wish you all a Happy New Year!
Sincerely,    
	Rob Woodall  
	Member of Congress",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.boozman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2018/12/in-support-of-border-funding,In Support of Border Funding,2018-12-31,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,AR,John Boozman,B001236,www.boozman.senate.gov,,,legacy,"As a member of the Senate Border Security and Enforcement First Immigration Caucus I am actively fighting for funding to protect our borders. National security is the federal government's number one responsibility and we must allocate resources in support of border protection that accurately reflect this priority. I supported the president's budget request for border security funding in the Senate Committee on Appropriations Fiscal Year 2019 Homeland Security bill and I will continue to advocate for increased resources for manpower and infrastructure in order to reduce illegal border crossings.
There is no doubt we have a border crisis that is escalating. Department of Homeland Security data shows that apprehensions along our southern border have nearly doubled in the past year. It is in our national interest to take necessary steps to provide the tools our Customs and Border Patrol (CPB) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers on the frontlines need to control our porous border and protect our communities and themselves as they carry out this important mission.
I've seen firsthand the challenges our interdiction agents face. In September, I visited the southwest border in California and Texas to see how we can improve policies to better control illegal immigration, human trafficking and drug smuggling. The need for more infrastructureincluding roads for access, electronic devices for surveillance and fencing for deterrencewas echoed at each stop. We heard how border security upgrades improved community safety. Increased federal investment is necessary to achieve this on a larger scale.
Constructing a strong border security system coupled with enforcement of our immigration laws is a deterrent to those who seek to illegally enter our country. This is the first step to reforming our immigration system. We are a nation of immigrants and we can be proud of our history of welcoming and naturalizing those who follow the proper, legal process. We naturalize more new citizens annually than the rest of the world combined. We can maintain this guiding principle and continue its success by ensuring that individuals and families who wish to immigrate to the United States do so by obeying our laws.
Every day CBP, ICE and Coast Guard personnel put their lives on the line to enforce our laws, protect our borders and prevent drug smugglers from entering our country. Increasing funding in order to improve border security is a reasonable request. I agree with the president's call for increased resources to defend our borders  a request that the House of Representatives recently supported. I am hopeful we can find a solution that expands investments in border security and funds the government.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2018/12/morris-county-listening-tour-council-grove,"Morris County Listening Tour, Council Grove",2018-12-31,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,KS,Jerry Moran,M000934,www.moran.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Tour Stops 
						
							
						
					
					
					
						 
							
							
								
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		MORRIS COUNTYMonday, December 31Main StreetCouncil Grove",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.portman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=5B40E031-7D99-4928-A429-EA175ECD458A,President Signs Into Law Portmans Bipartisan Bill to Protect Surviving Military Spouses,2018-12-31,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,OH,Rob Portman,P000449,www.portman.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Legislation Will Allow Spouses of Deceased Servicemembers to Break Jointly Held Residential Leases Without Penalty
WASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senator Rob Portman (R-OH) today announced that President Trump signed into law his bipartisan Gold Star Spouses Leasing Relief Act. The legislation, which was originally introduced in the House of Representatives by Reps. Brad Wenstrup (R-OH) and Cheri Bustos (D-IL), would modify the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) to allow a widow or widower of a servicemember who died while in military service (i.e., a Gold Star spouse) to terminate a jointly held residential lease, without penalty, within one year of the servicemember's death. This protection will also extend to the widow or widower of a member of the National Guard or Reserve whose death occurred while on active duty orders. 
I applaud the president for signing this measure into law to ensure that grieving military spouse dealing with the death of their loved one on active duty are able to end their lease without paying high termination fees, said Senator Portman. This law, with the support of numerous veterans groups and the Department of Defense, is a common-sense fix for Gold Star spouses.
When a servicemember receives military orders, his or her spouse is often required to relocate and then sign a lease for a house, apartment, or other dwelling. But when the servicemember dies during military service, the surviving spouse may be forced to pay off the remainder of that residential lease even though the couple only entered into that contract to accommodate the servicemember's assignment. Under the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA), active duty servicemembers may cancel agreements such as home or apartment rental contracts when they are deployed or relocated. However, these protections do not explicitly apply to Gold Star spouses who are in these agreements jointly with a servicemember who died while in military service.
The Gold Star Spouses Leasing Relief Act is also supported by The American Legion, Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS), and the National Military Family Association (NMFA).
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http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=401638,On the Ruling in the Case of Igor Bitkov,2018-12-30,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,NJ,Christopher Smith,S000522,chrissmith.house.gov,,,legacy,"Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ), chair of the House Subcommittee on Global Human Rights, issued the following statement on the court order for the release of Igor Bitkov: ""I welcome the news that a court in Guatemala on Friday ordered Igor Bitkov released, sentencing him to time served.  I fully expect that the release of his wife and daughter, Irina and Anastasia, will likewise be forthcoming.
""That said, the original prosecution and jailing of the Bitkovs orchestrated by the Russian government in collusion with an out-of-control UN 'anti-corruption' entity, CICIG  was a farce.
""There needs to be accountability. While it is up to the Guatemalans to address the flaws in the Guatemalan justice system that this case laid bare  such as the extensive use of pretrial detention  there are individuals in our State Department who turned a blind eye to the abuses of CICIG, an entity which we fund. This is especially egregious given the role played by Russian government actors. I renew my call for the State Department's Inspector General, as well as independent investigative journalists, to examine this thoroughly.
""The role of the Putin government in the prosecution underscores the stakes for the Bitkov family, whose plight was the subject of a hearing I chaired in April. While Friday's decision is good news, they remain in peril.Under no circumstances can they be returned to Russia. Theymust be given asylum, if not in Guatemala, then in a third country.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://byrne.house.gov/media-center/columns/2018-year-in-review,2018: Year in Review,2018-12-30,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,AL,Bradley Byrne,B001289,byrne.house.gov,,,legacy,"2018 was a landmark year in many ways for Alabama and the United States. From defense funding to town halls, agriculture to Red Snapper, there was much to celebrate this year and much to anticipate in the next. Join me as we take a look back at the past year.
I kicked things off in January by celebrating my 100th Town Hall Meeting in Grove Hill. I always enjoy meeting the folks in our area and hearing about the issues that matter most to them. This year, I hosted 25 town hall meetings throughout Southwest Alabama.
We made realstrides in 2018 when it comes to our national defense, including passing much needed funding for Alabama's many defense priorities. I was proud to vote in favor of a funding bill that allows for the construction of three Littoral Combat Ships (LCS) and one Expeditionary Fast Transport (EPF), which are built by Austal USA in Mobile. This funding helps us move toward a 355-ship Navy.
This marked the first time in ten years that we were able to fully fund our military on time, and in a bipartisan way. We funded critical Alabama defense priorities like the Austal shipyard; additional UH-60M Black Hawk, Lakota, and Apache helicopters, which are critical to the Army aviation mission at Fort Rucker in the Wiregrass; $22.4 million went to the Stryker Upgrade program, which supports the work at the Anniston Army Depot; and we increased funding to address cyber threats to our missile defense systems, which is critical to Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville.
This year, we were able to celebrate great developments for our local fishermen and coastal communities. In April, a 47-day Red Snapper season for recreational fishermen was announced. And just this December, NOAA Fisheries published a new rule to increase the annual catch limits and annual catch targets for the Red Snapper fishery in the Gulf of Mexico. These latest numbers further drive us forward in the fight for greater state control over the Red Snapper fishery.
Thanks to bipartisan reforms to our career and technical education programs, we are better able to give students tangible skills that help them succeed in real-world careers. In July, the House passed the Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act, which made reforms to the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Act to ensure more Americans enter the workforce with the skills they need.
In 2018, we made real progress on infrastructure. We passed critical legislation to support our nation's water infrastructure, including the Port of Mobile. We are also closer than ever before to building the I-10 Bridge.
And lastly, we were able to reach a bipartisan agreement on the 2018 Farm Bill to benefit our farmers and foresters in Alabama. The Farm Bill will allow for improved crop protections and loan options for farmers, incentivize rural development, support animal disease prevention and management, and will continue our nation's commitment to agriculture and farmers. I am especially pleased to see the substantial resources provided to improve rural broadband access to communities.
The many victories we were able to secure for the American people cannot be condensed into this brief article, but rest assured that this year, Alabama and the America are better off for the accomplishments made by the 115th Congress.
The next year will bring many changes with the Democrat majority in the House, but my New Year's Resolution is simple: I will continue to fight for the people of Alabama each and every day.
From all of my staff, my family, and myself, we wish you a Happy New Year!",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://turner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/turner-on-federal-employee-pay-increase,TURNER on Federal Employee Pay Increase,2018-12-30,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,OH,Michael Turner,T000463,turner.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Mike Turner (OH-10) released the following statement after President Trump signed an executive order cancelling the pay increase expected for civilian federal workers in 2019:
As I advocated in August, Congress must reject the President's imprudent decision to cancel the pay increase for our valuable federal civilian employees. Congress still has the ability to override this executive order as we work to end the partial government shutdown. I will continue to fight to retain the federal civilian employee pay increase that was promised to our government's dedicated public servants.
The Dayton region is home to over 15,000 federal civilian employees, including more than 12,000 at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base.
When this executive order was first threatened, Congressman Turner strongly opposed it and advocated overriding it to Congressional leadership.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://scalise.house.gov/press-release/scalise-confirms-fema-reverses-course-nfip-policies-will-be-written-effective,"Scalise Confirms that FEMA Reverses Course, NFIP Policies Will be Written Effective Immediately",2018-12-29,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,LA,Steve Scalise,S001176,scalise.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.House Majority Whip Steve Scalise (R-La.) released the following statement after receiving FEMA's new guidance restoring the ability of the National Flood Insurance Program to write and renew flood insurance policies during the government shutdown:
I'm glad after speaking with OMB and FEMA yesterday that they have decided to reverse course and allow flood insurance policies to continue as usual. While it's frustrating that they did not follow Congressional intent from the beginning, I'm glad they were willing to work with me on reversing their initial decision. Iwill work with the Administration on passing a long-term reauthorization of the flood insurance program.Millions of families in Louisiana and across the country rely on this program, and we need to give them the assurances and peace of mind they deserve.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://turner.house.gov/2018/12/turner-on-federal-employee-pay-increase,TURNER on Federal Employee Pay Increase,2018-12-29,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,OH,Michael R. Turner,T000463,turner.house.gov,turner,https://turner.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,,0,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z
https://www.alexander.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsarticles?ContentRecord_id=6393F1C3-85F1-4E2E-AE1F-9167144E2017,Washington Post: Alexander seeks to stay the course of bipartisanship in his final Senate stretch,2018-12-29,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,TN,Lamar Alexander,A000360,www.alexander.senate.gov,,,legacy,"In baseball, .400 puts you in the Hall of Fame. Alexander declined to single out any colleagues who stayed too long in the Senate, but it's clear that had an impact on his decision.
 
Thad Cochran (R-Miss.) won a seventh Senate term in 2014, at the age of 77, and earlier this year had to retire amid a physical and mental decline. Sen. Orrin G. Hatch (R-Utah) won a seventh term in 2012, at 78, and decided to retire this year. Lately he has struggled to articulate some points, leading to staff statements more fully describing his thoughts.
 
Alexander, in fine health, did not want to risk tainting his reputation. Another term was an eight-year commitment, he said  two years to run for reelection and six years to serve out the term. At that point, he would be 86.
 
He has known McConnell for decades, but he only hinted to the leader months ago that he would likely retire. The two men did not seek each other's advice about their own futures.
 
It's such a personal decision, Alexander said.
 
As of now, McConnell, 76, is running hard for a seventh term  which would end when he is 84.
 
Alexander wasn't afraid of a challenge from a hard-line conservative in a GOP primary. I actually like defeating evil forces where I can find them in politics, Alexander said.
 
That's about as intemperate as Alexander will ever sound, which makes him an outlier in this political era of shouting into the winds of cable news and social media. But that style has made him indispensable inside the Senate, where some things have not changed.
 
It's still based on relationships, he said.
 
Alexander, a former Tennessee governor who twice ran for president, built strong enough relationships early in his Senate career to climb to the No. 3 post in leadership.
 
But he voluntarily jumped off the leadership ladder in 2012 so that he could refashion himself as an across-the-aisle dealmaker. He worked with Schumer on easing the cumbersome process for confirming presidential nominees and then spent the past four years chairing the Senate's Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee.
There, he racked up a series of big legislative wins with a Democratic partner, Sen. Patty Murray of Washington. The duo rewrote elementary and high school education laws, won approval for a major medical research bill, and crafted a massive package to fight opioid abuse.
Alexander remains optimistic because of these accomplishments. He had his staff print Split Screen TV cards: One side has a picture of Supreme Court Justice Brett M. Kavanaugh and the timeline of his bitter confirmation process, the other a list of bipartisan bills that won approval over those five weeks. The list includes a bill protecting songwriters' rights that is near and dear to the classic and country pianist's heart.
This is where you find me, Alexander said, pointing to the side with accomplishments. That's why I'm not in the news all the time. I'm not over here, I'm over here.
But the Kavanaugh confirmation consumed American politics and drowned out public recognition of Alexander's bipartisan work.
Just as those hearings started in September, Sen. Jon Kyl (R-Ariz.) returned as an interim replacement for the late senator John McCain.
It's like I'm parachuting into a war zone, Kyl, who had served three terms in the Senate and then retired at the end of 2012, said in a recent interview.
He said the Senate is very different than it was just six years ago. Experiences like the Kavanaugh confirmation and now the partial government shutdown make it harder for people like Alexander to do their work.
Each time that it happens, it's a little harder to bounce back, Kyl said.
Alexander has two years to prove Kyl wrong.
While overcoming a tough primary challenge in 2014, Alexander told the story of two famous Tennesseans who went to Texas to fight for independence: Davy Crockett and Sam Houston.
Crockett is celebrated for his bravery at the Alamo, but Mexican troops slaughtered those Texans. Houston retreated to higher ground and later defeated Antonio Lpez de Santa Anna's army and won independence for Texas.
Alexander has Houston's walking stick hanging in his office. He wants Republicans to think more like the first governor of Texas and less like Crockett.
He's just not sure which side will win in the long run.
Crockett and Houston were both brave. Houston was more judicious, he said, pausing to consider the metaphor. Although, Crockett's more celebrated really among popular culture.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://burgess.house.gov/blog/?postid=398897,Burgess Releases 2018 Year End Report,2018-12-28,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,TX,Michael Burgess,B001248,burgess.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.  Congressman Michael C. Burgess, M.D. (R-TX), Chairman of the Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health, released the following statement after publishing his 2018 Year End Report detailing key accomplishments and services for the 26th District.   
            
            I began the 115th Congress with high expectations for what we could accomplish for North Texans. As this term concludes, it is clear we have achieved important legislative victories and made significant strides in areas where work remains. From committee hearings to town halls, case work to media interviews, I am committed to serving the 26th District to the best of my ability. As a Member of Congress, I have always made communicating with constituents one of my top priorities, and this annual report is one way I share my work on behalf of the 26th District of Texas. I hope North Texans review it and let me know how I can best serve them and their families as we look ahead to 2019. 
            
            During 2018, Dr. Burgess: 
             Authored and introduced 18 bills 
             Hosted or attended more than 430 meetings 
             Gave 80+ interviews 
             Resolved 434 cases with federal agencies on behalf of constituents
             Received and responded to more than 50,000 pieces of correspondence 
             Honored 19 student constituents entering the U.S. Service Academies
             Traveled more than 6,000 miles in North Texas
            For more, please read the complete 2018 Year End Report. 
            
            ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=401633,"<span class=""kicker"">Washington Post op-ed by U.S. Congressman Chris Smith</span>'The World Must Stand Against China's War on Religion'",2018-12-28,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,NJ,Christopher Smith,S000522,chrissmith.house.gov,,,legacy,"Chris Smith, a Republican, represents New Jersey in the U.S. House of Representatives.
Mihrigul Tursunsaid she pleaded with God to end her life as her Chinese jailers increased the electrical currents coursing through her body. Tursun, aMuslim Uighurwhose escape led her to the United States in September, broke down weeping at a Nov. 28congressional hearing as sherecounted her experiencein one of China's infamouspoliticalre-educationcenters.  

It is an appalling story but one that is all too familiar as existential threats to religious freedom rise in President Xi Jinping's China. The world can't ignore what's happening there. We must all stand up and oppose these human rights violations.  

The ruling Chinese Communist Party has undertaken the most comprehensive attempt to manipulate and control  or destroy  religious communities since Chairman Mao Zedong made the eradication of religion a goal of his disastrousCultural Revolutionhalf a century ago. Now Xi, apparently fearing the power of independent religious belief as a challenge to the Communist Party's legitimacy, is trying to radically transform religion into the party's servant, employing a draconian policy known assinicization.
Under sinicization, all religions and believers must comport with and aggressively promote communist ideology  or else.  

To drive home the point, religious believers of every persuasion areharassed, arrested, jailed or tortured. Only the compliant are left relatively unscathed.
Bibles are burned,churches destroyed,crosses set ablaze atop church steeplesand now, under Xi, religious leaders are required to installfacial-recognition camerasin their places of worship. New regulations expand restrictions on religious expressiononlineandprohibit those under age 18 from attending services.  

Government officials are also reportedlyrewritingreligious texts  including the Bible  that remove content unwanted by the atheist Communist Party, and have launched afive-year sinicization planfor Chinese Protestant Christians.
These efforts have taken a staggering human toll. In recent months, more than 1 million Uighurs and other Muslims in the Xinjiang Uighur Autonomous Region have been detained, tortured and forced to renounce their faith. The U.S. government is investigating recentreportsthat ethnic minorities in internment camps are being forced to produce goods bound for the United States.  

Yet, despite this anti-religion campaign, the Vatican has shown a disturbing lack of alarm concerning these threats and, instead, appears to be seeking a form of accommodation. In September, Vatican officials signed a provisional agreement that essentially ceded to the Chinese government the power to choose  subject to papal review  every candidate for bishop in China, which has an estimated 10 million to 12 million Catholics.  

Cardinal Joseph Zen Ze-kiun, a retired bishop of Hong Kong, in Septembercalled the deala complete surrender by the Vatican and an incredible betrayal of the faith.  

At a congressional hearing I chaired in September, Tom Farr, president of the Religious Freedom Institute,testifiedthat the government-controlled body charged with carrying out the policy, the Catholic Patriotic Association, had drafted an implementation document containing the following passage: The Church will regard promotion and education on core values of socialism as a basic requirement for adhering to the Sinicization of Catholicism. It will guide clerics and Catholics to foster and maintain correct views on history and the nation.  

One can hope that Beijing has made concessions to the church that have yet to be revealed.Initial reports are less than promising. Since the agreement was reached, underground priests have been detained,Marian shrines destroyed, pilgrimage sites closed, youth programs shuttered, and priests required to attend reeducation sessions in at least one province.  

The Vatican should reconsider its arrangement with the Chinese government. But what can be done more generally in response to Xi's war on religion? The United States and several European countries have condemned it, but any nation that values freedom of religion should unite in denouncing China's treatment of Muslim Uighurs, Christians, Tibetan Buddhists and Falun Gong practitioners. In particular, Muslim-majority countries, strangely muted regarding the persecution of Muslim Uighurs, must protest these abuses even at the risk of endangering the benefits from China's Belt and Roadinfrastructure projects.  

Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) and I have urged the Trump administration to use Global Magnitsky Act sanctions to target Chinese officials responsible for egregious human rights abuses. We have sought expanded export controls for police surveillance products and sanctions against businesses profiting from the forced labor or detention of Uighurs. We have also introduced the bipartisanUyghur Human Rights Policy Act of 2018to provide the administration with new tools to comprehensively address the abuse.  

The United States must lead the way in letting the Chinese Communist Party know that taking a hammer and sickle to the cross and enslaving more than 1 million Uighurs in an effort to erase their religion and culture are destructive, shameful acts that will not be tolerated by the community of nations.  

This op-ed was originally published in the Washington Post in print on December 28, 2018 and online on December 27, 2018, and can be found online here:  
https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/the-world-must-stand-against-chinas-war-on-religion/2018/12/27/115685aa-0a0f-11e9-85b6-41c0fe0c5b8f_story.html?utm_term=.1db8061bbc3c",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://abraham.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/letters-garret-graves-leads-saltwater-anglers-victory,Letters: Garret Graves leads saltwater anglers to victory,2018-12-28,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,LA,Ralph Abraham,A000374,abraham.house.gov,,,legacy,"As saltwater anglers in Sportsman's Paradise, we are blessed with abundant fisheries resources off our coast. Today, we are grateful to our members of Congress who understand the value of America's fisheries and the public's access to those resources.
On Dec. 19, Congress passed legislation known as the Modern Fish Act (S. 1520) to improve the way recreational fisheries are managed in federal waters nine to 200 nautical miles off Louisiana's coast. The Modern Fish Act, championed by its lead sponsors, U.S. Rep. Garret Graves R-Baton Rouge, and U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Mississippi, now heads to the White House for President Donald Trump's signature.
As we head into the new year, anglers from coast to coast to coast can be proud of what the Modern Fish Act means for the future of recreational fishing. We are now on a path to better, more modern management and improved data collection on angler effort and harvest. Ultimately, these updates should help avoid the abrupt closures and inconsistent fishing regulations that have been plaguing many federally-managed recreational fisheries in the last several years.
I would like to thank Graves and his colleagues from Louisiana's congressional delegation in particular, Modern Fish Act co-sponsors U.S. Sens Bill Cassidy and John Kennedy and U.S. Reps. Clay Higgins,Ralph Abrahamand Mike Johnson who stood up for Louisiana's 400,000 saltwater anglers on Capitol Hill and demanded that we have a seat at the table of fisheries management.
To read the full story, click here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://adriansmith.house.gov/newsroom/columns/looking-back-2018,Looking Back at 2018,2018-12-28,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,,,legacy,"2018 has been a productive year. The economic benefits of tax reform are on display throughout the country with businesses expanding and jobs being created all around us. While there is much left to be done, I'd like to discuss a few of our proudest accomplishments from the past year.
During the week before Christmas, the Senate passed my bill to help our agricultural producers in the Northport Irrigation District. Once signed into law, this bill will allow individual land owners to repay their portion of federal irrigation infrastructure loans instead of paying only the interest as they have for decades. I was pleased to see the House pass it earlier this year and I thank Senator Fischer for her diligent efforts to shepherd it through the Senate.
Earlier in December, President Trump issued a new rule to supplant President Obama's vastly overreaching WOTUS rule which threatened the productivity of our farmers and ranchers. When President Obama's EPA first issued the rule, I introduced a joint resolution to repeal it under the Congressional Review Act (CRA) which easily passed both the House and Senate and forced a veto by President Obama. I appreciate President Trump's efforts to shield our agricultural producers from overregulation and I look forward to putting this problem behind us for good.
President Trump also recently notified Congress of his intent to negotiate a trade agreement to reduce tariffs and other trade barriers between the United States and Japan. I have long called for such negotiations, including through a House resolution I introduced last year, and I look forward to the 116th Congress when I will take over as co-Chair of the U.S. Japan Congressional Caucus. Through this position, I hope to strengthen our ties with Japanese leaders and build support a mutually beneficial agreement between our two nations.
Among our other accomplishments was an amendment to the FAA's reauthorization bill which will allow several of Nebraska's airports to continue receiving safety improvement funding. Many of our airports were hurt by pilot shortages likely brought on by increased pilot regulations which caused them to fall below the traffic threshold required for federal safety funding. Enplanements have already begun to increase under new carriers, and my initiative will help to bridge the gap as Nebraska airports rebounds from this setback.
Last year's tax reform package was a great accomplishment and I was able to address a number of Nebraska concerns in it, such as maintaining full property tax deductions for agricultural land. This year we were able to ensure the equitable treatment of cooperatives and private grain elevators and buyers under the new tax code by eliminating the Grain Glitch. Nebraska's farmers and ranchers deserve to see the same benefits as other businesses under tax reform.
Overall, it was a very productive year, but there is still much to be done to resolve our current trade disputes and level the playing field for our agricultural producers as well as the Nebraska business sector as a whole. I appreciate President Trump's leadership on many of these issues and look forward to the many things we can accomplish moving forward.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://bacon.house.gov/media/press-releases/bacon-voices-support-district-court-judge-nominee-buescher,Bacon Voices Support for District Court Judge Nominee Buescher,2018-12-28,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,,,legacy,"OMAHA, NE- Congressman Don Bacon (NE-02) today expressed support for Brian Buescher of Omaha, who has been nominated by the President to serve as a U.S. District Court Judge in Nebraska. He also expressed disappointment in two U.S. Senators for their religious discrimination shown in their questioning:
Brian Buescher is a distinguished civic leader and accomplished attorney here in Omaha and has the outstanding judicial temperament needed to serve on the court. Recent questioning from two Democratic Senators on his affiliations with the Catholic Church and Knights of Columbus are out of line and against the spirit of the founding of this nation. We should never have a religious test as a qualification or disqualification to become a judge. Further, our First Amendment right to exercise our faith freely is core to the character of our country. Brian Buescher should be confirmed, and we should rebuke Senators Mazie Hurino of Hawaii and Kamala Harris of California for their disturbing questioning that smells and looks like anti-religious bigotry.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://chriscollins.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/collins-bill-renaming-post-office-in-honor-of-staff-sergeant-alexandria,Collins Bill Renaming Post Office In Honor Of Staff Sergeant Alexandria Gleason-Morrow Becomes Law,2018-12-28,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,NY,Chris Collins,C001092,chriscollins.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC Today legislation sponsored by Congressman Chris Collins (NY-27) to rename the U.S. Post Office in Dansville, New York after Staff Sergeant Alexandria Gleason-Morrow officially became law. SSgt Gleason-Morrow was a Dansville native who was killed in the line of duty March 22, 2017 while serving in Jordan.

I am honored that President Trump signed this piece of legislation honoring Staff Sergeant Gleason-Morrow,said Congressman Collins.Staff Sergeant Gleason-Morrow was a true American hero that represented the very best of the Dansville community. Renaming this post office after her stands as a lasting tribute to her bravery, heroism and sacrifice for our country.

SSgt. Gleason-Morrow enlisted into the United States Air Force after graduating from Dansville Senior High School. She attended the Air Force's Aircraft Armament Technical School after basic training, and was assigned to the 366th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron at Mountain Home Air Force Base in Idaho. SSgt. Gleason-Morrow was deployed to Jordan during the Operation Inherent Resolve, and died from non-combat related injuries while performing maintenance duties on a fighter aircraft.

Alexandria Mae Gleason-Morrow was a great American that loved her country and put her life on the line to defend us all,said StephanieGleason, mother of SSgt Gleason-Morrow.She was a top notch airwoman that gave her all, and never accepted anything but perfection. She taught those around her to become the best person they could possibly be. Alex was the best daughter, granddaughter, sister, mother, wife and friend to us all.

Gleason added:To say I feel a little overwhelmed is an understatement. To know that so many people still remember Alex and care about our family is heartwarming. All I can say is thank you  this honor has truly made our Christmas and New Year brighter.
SSgt Gleason was posthumously honored by her comrades when she was named the first Senior Airman team chief for the 389th Thunderbolts Aircraft Unit, a subdivision of the 366th Squadron.

SSgt Gleason-Morrow is survived by her mother, Stephanie Gleason, four siblings, two beautiful daughters, and her husband.

The Collins legislation renames the U.S. postal facility located at116 Main Street in Dansville, the Staff Sergeant Alexandria Gleason-Morrow Post Office.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cole-appointed-ranking-member-house-rules-committee,Cole Appointed Ranking Member of House Rules Committee,2018-12-28,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,OK,Tom Cole,C001053,cole.house.gov,,,legacy,"Norman, OK  Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after he was appointed by Republican Leader Kevin McCarthy to serve as Ranking Member of the House Rules Committee in the 116th Congress. Ranking Member is the top Republican leadership position on this important panel. Before consideration on the House floor, every piece of legislation must first pass through the Rules Committee.
Going into the new Congress, I am honored to serve as Ranking Member of the House Rules Committee, said Cole. I am grateful to Leader McCarthy for appointing me to serve in this key role on behalf of House Republicans and entrusting me to lead. While divided government is challenging, the American people are still counting on Congress to govern. Without question, the Rules Committee is an essential piece in the process of fulfilling that duty effectively. In my new role, I look forward to continuing to serve on the Rules panel and working with my colleagues to ensure Republicans remain heard and influential.
Prior to this appointment, Cole has served numerous stints on the House Rules Committee. He first served as a member from 2004 to 2006; he was then reappointed in 2013 in the 113th Congress and has remained on the panel during each consecutive Congress. Since 2017, he has served as Vice Chairman of the committee.
# # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://garretgraves.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/letters-garret-graves-leads-saltwater-anglers-victory,Letters: Garret Graves leads saltwater anglers to victory,2018-12-28,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,LA,Garret Graves,G000577,garretgraves.house.gov,,,legacy,"As saltwater anglers in Sportsman's Paradise, we are blessed with abundant fisheries resources off our coast. Today, we are grateful to our members of Congress who understand the value of America's fisheries and the public's access to those resources.
On Dec. 19, Congress passed legislation known as the Modern Fish Act (S. 1520) to improve the way recreational fisheries are managed in federal waters nine to 200 nautical miles off Louisiana's coast. The Modern Fish Act, championed by its lead sponsors, U.S. Rep. Garret Graves R-Baton Rouge, and U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Mississippi, now heads to the White House for President Donald Trump's signature.
This historic, bipartisan vote on the Modern Fish Act marks the first time a sport-fishing-focused bill has ever passed out of Congress and takes important steps toward updating the way recreational fisheries are managed at the federal level. America's federal fisheries have for decades been managed by policies designed to manage commercial fishing. Therefore, one of America's favorite pastimes often fell victim to regulations never suited to the nature of our sport.
As we head into the new year, anglers from coast to coast to coast can be proud of what the Modern Fish Act means for the future of recreational fishing. We are now on a path to better, more modern management and improved data collection on angler effort and harvest. Ultimately, these updates should help avoid the abrupt closures and inconsistent fishing regulations that have been plaguing many federally-managed recreational fisheries in the last several years.
I would like to thank Graves and his colleagues from Louisiana's congressional delegation in particular, Modern Fish Act co-sponsors U.S. Sens Bill Cassidy and John Kennedy and U.S. Reps. Clay Higgins, Ralph Abraham and Mike Johnson who stood up for Louisiana's 400,000 saltwater anglers on Capitol Hill and demanded that we have a seat at the table of fisheries management.
Jeff Angers
president, Center for Sportfishing Policy
Baton Rouge",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://jones.house.gov/press-release/jones-calls-fiscally-responsible-wall-funding-plan,JONES CALLS FOR FISCALLY RESPONSIBLE WALL FUNDING PLAN,2018-12-28,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,NC,Walter Jones,J000255,jones.house.gov,,,legacy,"GREENVILLE, NC  As portions of the federal government remain shuttered over a standoff between the president and Congress regarding funding for the wall, Congressman Walter B. Jones (NC-3) reminded all parties that increases in federal spending, including expenditures for the wall, should not be paid for by raising the debt.
Whatever compromise is reached, it should be paid for without adding to the deficit or the debt, said Congressman Jones. America's national debt is nearly $22 trillion. Next year our annual deficit is projected to top $1 trillion. We can't afford to keep financing the provision of government services by borrowing more and more money. It's morally irresponsible and it's got to stop.
Improving security on the southern border is essential, and we need a fiscally responsible plan to pay for it, Jones continued. If Mexico isn't going to be made to pay for a wall, that means funds must be found internally. Options could include cutting other wasteful federal spending. Foreign aid and the war in Afghanistan would be good places to start. As a wealthy man, the president might consider pledging some of his own funds as well. Whatever it takes, just so long as we don't add to the debt that is bankrupting our great country.
Congressman Jones is a leader in the fight to cut wasteful spending and balance the budget. He has consistently voted against increasing the debt limit, and over the past 14 years, he is the only member of Congress to vote against every bloated federal budget. 
For additional information, please contact Congressman Walter Jones' office at (202) 225-3415.

###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://peteking.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/congressman-king-time-for-us-to-recognize-israeli-sovereignty-over-golan,Congressman King: Time for U.S. to recognize Israeli sovereignty over Golan Heights,2018-12-28,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,NY,Peter King,K000210,peteking.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Pete King Statement:
""To reaffirm our commitment to Israel and opposition to Iran expansion &amp; aggression, it is time for the United States to recognize Israeli sovereignty over Golan Heights. Essential to Israeli security, regional stability and U.S. national interest.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://toomey.senate.gov?p=news&id=2320,"Toomey in Today's Morning Call: Even with Divided Congress, Opportunities Exist for Bipartisan Legislation",2018-12-28,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,PA,Patrick Toomey,T000461,toomey.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Allentown, Pa. - In an op-ed published in today's Morning Call, U.S. Senator Pat Toomey (R-Pa.) details his legislative priorities for the coming legislative session and what he believes can be accomplished under divided government.
Topics include, but are not limited to, making permanent the expiring provisions of tax reform, strengthening firearm background checks, expanding opportunities for international trade, and a federal infrastructure improvement measure.
Senator Toomey's op-ed is provided below and available here.
Your View: Even with divided Congress, opportunities exist for bipartisan legislationMorning Call  By Senator Pat Toomey   December 28, 2018
In January, Americans will send a divided government to Washington. As we consider our legislative agenda for the next Congress, our first rule should be: Do no harm.
The American economy is the strongest we've seen in decades. Economic growth has accelerated, unemployment is at 3.7 percent, middle-class wages are finally rising, and for the first time there are more job openings than there are people looking for a job.
This is largely due to historic tax reform and regulatory relief that has been enacted over the past two years. We should make the expiring provisions of tax reform permanent and continue the regulatory reforms that helped get us here.
Another important opportunity is meaningful entitlement reform. Our structural deficits and accumulating debt will, at some point, undermine economic growth and our standard of living if uncorrected. The three big entitlement programs - Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid - are the root cause of our fiscal problems.
Successful reforms in the past were achieved when members of both parties were willing to take political risks together. I have no illusions that this will be easy - or likely. But Congress owes the American people a government that is fiscally stable.
Areas where we have better odds of making real progress include keeping guns out of the hands of criminals and the dangerously mentally ill; expanding opportunities for international trade; lowering the cost of health care; fighting opioid abuse; and modernizing the nation's aging infrastructure.
Law-abiding citizens have a constitutional right to own and use firearms. I'm a gun owner and take my son shooting. A brief background check to prevent the purchase of a gun by someone who has forfeited their right to own a gun, such as a convicted felon or dangerously mentally ill person, does not violate anyone's Second Amendment rights.
A silver lining of Democratic control of the House is that they may pass background check legislation. This could boost momentum for Senate passage of my bill, which I wrote with Sen. Joe Manchin (D-W.V.), to extend background checks to cover all commercial sales, including those made at gun shows and online. Congress should finally come together and enact our bill.
On trade, the president's policies have been mixed. He's been mistaken to propose restricting trade between the United States, Mexico and Canada - our largest trading partners - but right to point out the egregious theft of intellectual property by China.
On balance, international trade is very good for Pennsylvania. The livelihoods of 1.6 million Pennsylvanians depend on trade, and workers in export-based manufacturing jobs are paid, on average, 18 percent more than other workers. Congress should correct the president's misguided actions, and affirm his constructive trade policy.
Health care may seem like an unlikely area for cooperation with divided government, but the high cost of care for American families provides powerful motivation. We need legislation to improve cost and quality transparency for consumers, enhance choices, and lower prices across the entire sector.
Congress should also be able to build on the recent bipartisan efforts to combat the opioid epidemic. For starters, we can do more to reduce the flow of lethal fentanyl into the United States from other countries and encourage further reductions in opioid prescriptions.
Lastly, there is bipartisan agreement that our infrastructure needs improvement. Updating our infrastructure is about more than fixing congested roads and aging bridges. It's also about our airports, locks, dams, dredging, access to broadband, and transporting the vast natural gas reserves that are transforming Pennsylvania into a leading energy producer and exporter. If crafted responsibly, an infrastructure bill can facilitate more, and sustained, economic growth.
The biggest political dynamic at play in 2019 is how willing the newly elected Democratic House majority and President Trump are to work together. The Senate will continue confirming the president's executive branch and judicial nominees.
I stand ready to work with my House and Senate colleagues, regardless of party affiliation, to make progress on these and other important priorities for our commonwealth and nation.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.alexander.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=A7D3A133-078D-4BAC-B9AA-278F4DBC74B9,Alexander: Mercury Rule Has Kept Tennessees Air Clean,2018-12-28,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,TN,Lamar Alexander,A000360,www.alexander.senate.gov,,,legacy,"MARYVILLE, Tenn.,December 28,2018 United States Senator Lamar Alexander (R-Tenn.) today said the Mercury Rule is important to help keep Tennessee's air clean.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today released a proposed rule to revise regulations related to the Mercury Rule.
Ever since being elected to the Senate, I have worked to clean up our aircleaner air means better jobs as well as better health for Tennesseans,Alexander said.The Mercury Rule, which was finalized in 2012, required utilities to install pollution control equipment to reduce emissions of mercury and hazardous air pollutants in order to keep our air, waters and streams cleanwhich has been good for our state and its economy. I will review the Trump Administration's proposed rule in the coming weeks to determine its potential impact on Tennessee.
The Mercury and Air Toxics Standards (the Mercury Rule) was finalized in February 2012 to reduce emissions of toxic air pollutants from power plants. In June 2012, Alexandervoted to supportthe Mercury Rule on the Senate floor.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.boozman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2018/12/tb-p-sen-boozman-says-work-being-done-to-protect-election-integrity,TB&P: Provision in new Farm Bill could help Arkansas farmers sell crops in Cuba,2018-12-28,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,AR,John Boozman,B001236,www.boozman.senate.gov,,,legacy,"In the News 
			
				
					
				
			
			
			
			
				



	
		

















	
	
	
	
	
	
	
		
		The newly minted Farm Bill contains a provision that will allow U.S. agricultural producers to use federal market promotion dollars for exports to Cuba.
Full story:https://talkbusiness.net/2018/12/provision-in-new-farm-bill-could-help-arkansas-farmers-sell-crops-in-cuba/",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/video-capito-looks-back-at-2018,VIDEO: Capito Looks Back at 2018,2018-12-28,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,WV,Shelley Capito,C001047,www.capito.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.28.18
			 VIDEO: Capito Looks Back at 2018 
			
			CHARLESTON, W.Va.  U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) today released a video highlighting various events from 2018 and her work for West Virginians during the past year.

Click here or the image above to watch the video.

# # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-announces-fema-will-correct-error-resume-sales-of-new-flood-insurance-policies,"Cassidy Announces FEMA Will Correct Error, Resume Sales of New Flood Insurance Policies",2018-12-28,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.28.18
			 Cassidy Announces FEMA Will Correct Error, Resume Sales of New Flood Insurance Policies 
			
			WASHINGTONU.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), released the following statement announcing that in response to his letter to FEMA Administrator Brock Long, the agency will reverse its decision to suspend sales of new flood insurance (NFIP) policies during the partial government shutdown.
FEMA's initial NFIP guidance made no sense, and I'm happy to announce they are heeding my direction and will start selling new flood insurance policies again. It's unfortunate so many people were inconvenienced due to FEMA's error, but I'm glad they are correcting it so home sales in limbo can proceed, said Dr. Cassidy. Now if only Nancy Pelosi, Chuck Schumer and other Washington Democrats will also listen to common sense, we can pass a bill to secure the border and end this partial government shutdown.

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		    	Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins%E2%80%99-statement-members-coast-guard-affected-partial-government-shutdown,Senator Collins Statement on Members of Coast Guard Affected by Partial Government Shutdown,2018-12-28,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,ME,Susan Collins,C001035,www.collins.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Newsroom 
                
    
    
      
      
  
        
                         Senator Collins' Statement on Members of Coast Guard Affected by Partial Government Shutdown 
                   
      
                              
  
    
        
      Posted Fri, 12/28/2018 - 16:49    
    
    
    
  Washington, D.C.U.S. Senator Susan Collins issued this statement today regarding a separate payroll system that will prevent active-duty members of the Coast Guard from receiving pay for pre-shutdown work unless action is taken:

Most federal employees will receive their scheduled paychecks today, but that is not the case for 42,000 Coast Guard members, who will not be paid for pre-shutdown work because they are under a different pay system.This is not fair. I called the White House to urge an immediate fix.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.corker.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-list?ContentRecord_id=DBFE6666-2B3C-4EFD-A346-21293A6E0C8C,Corker Announces Portman Will Lead Congressional Efforts to End Modern Slavery Worldwide,2018-12-28,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,TN,Bob Corker,C001071,www.corker.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON  As his time in Congress comes to a close, U.S. Senator Bob Corker (R-Tenn.), chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, today announced that Senator Rob Portman (R-Ohio) will take the helm of congressional efforts to combat modern slavery and human trafficking worldwide.
For years, Senator Portman has been a champion in Congress in the fight against human trafficking here at home, and I can think of no one better to take up the mantle in the global fight against this scourge on humanity as I depart the Senate, said Corker. With passage of the End Modern Slavery Initiative Act and launch of the Global Fund to End Modern Slavery, we have made great progress in this fight, but much more work remains. While I plan to continue to play a role in this fight as a private citizen, I am incredibly grateful that Rob has agreed to take the helm in Congress to ensure this important work continues as we strive to end modern slavery once and for all.
I am honored that Senator Corker has entrusted me with this role and I want to thank him for his tireless and courageous efforts to combat this horrific crime around the globe, said Portman. Over the past decade we have made progress but there is much more to do both in the U.S. and in other countries to help end this scourge once and for all.
BACKGROUND:
More than 27 million people are enslaved around the world, more than at any time in history. While U.S. government agencies and non-profit organizations have taken significant steps to end this scourge on humanity, much more work remains. Recognizing the United States could not meet this challenge alone, three years ago, Senator Corker proposed a bold, bipartisan initiative to end modern slavery and human trafficking worldwide.
Not unlike the role PEPFAR has played in fighting AIDS across the globe, the End Modern Slavery Initiative Act was designed to leverage limited foreign aid dollars and galvanize tremendous support and investment from the public sector, philanthropic organizations, and the private sector to focus resources responsibly where the crime is most prevalent. With broad support from countless individuals, organizations, and faith-based institutions, authorizing legislation for the End Modern Slavery Initiative was included in the National Defense Authorization Act of 2017 (NDAA), which overwhelmingly passed the Senate on December 8, 2016 and was signed into law by the president soon after.
Passage led to the creation of the Global Fund to End Modern Slavery (GFEMS), a non-profit, grant-making foundation in the District of Columbia that is funding programs and projects outside of the United States that will:
 
Contribute to the freeing and sustainable recovery of victims of modern slavery, prevent individuals from being enslaved, and enforce laws to punish individual and corporate perpetrators of modern slavery;
Set clear, defined goals and outcomes that can be empirically measured; and
Seek to achieve a measurable 50 percent reduction of modern slavery in the areas the foundation operates.
 
The foundation seeks to raise $1.5 billion over the next decade, more than 80 percent of which will come through matching funds from the private sector and foreign governments. To date, more than $105 million has been contributed to the fund, including:
 
$46 million from the U.S. State Department (September 14, 2017)
$25 million from the United Kingdom (September 19, 2017)
$25 million from a private donor
$11.6 million from Norway (December 18, 2018)
 
Progress of the fund's success will be tracked against baseline data with a goal of achieving a 50 percent reduction in modern slavery in the areas where the fund is working. Projects that fail to meet goals will be suspended or terminated. The foundation is required to comply with the Government Accountability Office's mandate to conduct financial audits and program evaluations.
During his time in the Senate, Portman has authored six federal anti-trafficking laws designed to better serve victims and help law enforcement end this crime  including most recently the Stop Enabling Sex Traffickers Act (SESTA). The law, which President Trump signed on April 11, 2018, is helping to curb the explosion of online sex trafficking and give victims the tools they need to hold accountable websites that knowingly facilitate the trafficking of women and children online.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-marks-policy-oversight-accomplishments-115th-congress,"Grassley Marks Policy, Oversight Accomplishments of the 115th Congress",2018-12-28,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,IA,Charles Grassley,G000386,www.grassley.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON  Sen. Chuck Grassley of Iowa marked a series of policy and oversight accomplishments in the 115th Congress. Serving the people of Iowa as their United States Senator is my first priority and it's an honor that I take seriously, Grassley said. As chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee and through my extensive oversight efforts, my work focuses on making government more transparent, efficient and accountable to Iowans and all Americans.  Grassley holds at least one question-and-answer session in each of Iowa's 99 counties every year to hear concerns and answer questions on any subject fromIowans. In 2018, Grassleycompletedhisannual county meetings for the 38th year in a row. Grassley holdsmeetings in a variety of settingsto ensure that a broad cross-section of Iowans can participate, includingbusinesses, schools,townmeetings andfactory floors. Although the setting may differ from county to county, the format is the same: Iowans set the agenda.  In addition to his annual meetings, Grassley attended or convened a variety of events and forums, including:  In 2018, Grassley created a social media series called #CornWatch that gave followers an insider look at farming operations and tracked the progression of the corn crop grown on the Grassley family farm in New Hartford, Iowa from planting through harvest.  When the Senate is in session, Grassley sets aside eight 15-minute meetings everyMondaythroughThursdayto meet with Iowans in Washington, D.C., including advocacy groups, associations, chambers of commerce and local business leaders, students and families. During the 115th Congress, Grassley metwith more than 2,000 groups of Iowans visiting the nation's capital and discussed a variety of policy issues affecting Iowans such as trade, tax reform and health care. Grassley also joined 26 Iowa schoolsfor Q&amp;As via video conferencing and, as an avid fan of Iowa universities, attended dozens of sporting events.  Highlights of Grassley's legislative and oversight work follow here:  Agriculture:  As the senior senator of one of the top agricultural states in the country, Grassley has been an outspoken advocate for farmers and Rural America. He has consistently called for a new Farm Bill that would include commonsense reforms to ensure federal assistance only goes to farmers who truly need it instead of millionaire non-farmers gaming the system.  Grassley, along with Sen. Debbie Stabenow of Michigan, raised concerns with the U.S. Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency over potentially wasteful payouts made to the estates of deceases farmers.  Grassley was also a leading supporter for the confirmation of Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Bill Northey to be Undersecretary for Farm Production and Conservations at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Grassley introduced Northey at his nomination hearing, praised his qualifications and congratulated him at his long-overdue confirmation.  Grassley joined fellow Iowa Sen. Joni Ernst in introducing the Give Our Resources the Opportunity to Work (GROW) Act of 2018, which was largely enacted in the 2018 Farm Bill. It refocuses conservation spending on marginal cropland to benefit soil health, water quality and wildlife habitat. It also protects rural economies and ensures greater farmland access for beginning and young farmers.  Grassley and Ernst, along with other members of the Senate Agriculture Committee, urged the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) to review the proposed purchase of National Beef Packing Co. by a Brazilian meat company.  During the fall of 2017, Grassley reintroduced theFamily Farmer Bankruptcy Clarification Act of 2017to reverse a Supreme Court ruling (Hall v. United States) that made it harder for family farmers to reorganize their finances after declaring bankruptcy. The bill was included as part of the supplemental appropriations package and was signed into law by President Trump.  Also in 2017, the USDA withdrew two rules related to thePackers and Stockyards Act, commonly referred to as the GIPSA rules. As the only two farmers currently serving in the U.S. Senate, Grassley, along with Sen. Jon Tester of Montana,wrote a letterto USDA Secretary Sonny Perdue to express their disagreement over the agency's decision to withdraw these rules. Grassley also offered legislation toamend thePackers and Stockyards Actto make it unlawful for a packer to own, feed or control livestock intended for slaughter.  Grassley introduced theFood Security is National Security Act of 2017, which would give top U.S. agriculture and food officials permanent representation on CFIUS. It would also include new agriculture and food-related criteria for CFIUS to consider when reviewing transactions that could result in control of a U.S. business by a foreign company, ensuring the U.S. has the tools and people it needs to safeguard the nation's food security, food safety, biosecurity and bring security to Iowa farmers and the U.S. farm sector as a whole.  As a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, Grassleywrote a letterto the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) requesting an update of its 2013 report on farm program eligibility in advance of the Farm Bill. In 2014, Grassley led an effort to fix loopholes that allowed farmers to exploit the system by using non-farming family members to receive additional subsidies from the government. Both chambers of Congress passed his bipartisan amendment that included reforms to farm program eligibility, but the amendment was significantly watered down during conference and ultimatelybecame lawas part of the 2014 Farm Bill. In 2018, Grassley introduced the same payment limit loophole amendment, but again it was left out of the final text of the Farm Bill.  Antitrust:  In his capacity as Senate Judiciary chairman, Grassley, along with House Judiciary Chairman Bob Goodlatte of Virginia, requested input from the Justice Department's (DOJ) antitrust division on a proposal to hold the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) members accountable for antitrust violations. In aletterto Assistant Attorney General Makan Delrahim, the lawmakers touted the bicameral, bipartisan support for theNo Oil Producing and Exporting Cartels Act, or NOPEC, which Grassley introduced.  Grassley and Goodlatte also sent a letter to President Trump regarding the impact of foreign antitrust enforcement on American citizens and businesses abroad. In the letter, they requested the President establish a White House Working Group on International Competition to coordinate international competition and trade policy with the United States. They also requested the development of a comprehensive and consistent strategy to address misuse of foreign competition law by foreign governments.  In a letter to Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Chairman Joseph Simons, Grassley requested the FTC conduct an assessment of recent and ongoing consolidation in the pharmaceutical supply chain and its potential impact on prescription drug prices for American consumers. Grassley also called on the DOJ's antitrust divisionto conduct a vigorous review of the proposed mergers of Cigna Corp. with Express Scripts Holding Co., and CVS Health Corp. with Aetna Inc. due to the potential influence the mergers could have on the price of prescription drugs.  Grassley also sent a letter to Chairman Simons requesting the FTC conduct an assessment of potentially anticompetitive contracting practices between insurers and hospital systems in the United States deliberately designed to prevent consumers' access to quality, lower cost care.  The Senate passed Grassley'sCriminal Antitrust Anti-Retaliation Act, which would extend whistleblower protections for employees who provide information to the DOJ related to criminal antitrust violations. This is part of Grassley's decades-long effort to protect and empower whistleblowers. The legislation passed the Senate the past two congresses, but has not been taken up by the House of Representatives.  Grassley and Goodlatte called on the DOJ and FTC to work with the U.S. Trade Representative to make strong competition provisions a central part of upcoming trade negotiations.In their 2017letter, Grassley and Goodlatte encouraged the federal antitrust agencies to include a competition chapter in the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) to establish a high standard for competition chapters in future trade negotiations.  Criminal Justice Reform:  As chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, Grassley, along with Sens. Dick Durbin of Illinois, Mike Lee of Utah, Corey Booker of New Jersey, Lindsey Graham of South Carolina and Sheldon Whitehouse of Rhode Island, introduced the bipartisan First Step Act. The legislation  the most significant criminal justice reform effort in a generation  passed the House and the Senate and was signed into law by President Trump, will reduce recidivism, promote public safety and improve fairness in sentencing of federal crimes.  Grassley, along with a bipartisan group of senators, reintroducedthe landmarkSentencing Reform and Corrections Act of 2017, which would recalibrate prison sentences for nonviolent drug offenders, target violent and career criminals and save taxpayer dollars.The bill would allow increased judicial discretion at sentencing for offenders with minimal criminal histories and help inmates successfully re-enter society. It would also tighten penalties for violent criminals and preserve key prosecutorial tools for law enforcement. The legislation advanced out of the Senate Judiciary Committee in early 2018 with broad support.  Defense Oversight:  Grassley's extensive oversight work throughout his career has included a dogged pursuit for answers from the Pentagon over decades of wasteful spending and its inability to produce a clean financial audit.  Grassley has repeatedly pressed Secretary of Defense James Mattis to follow through on his commitment to end waste, fraud and abuse at the Department of Defense (DOD). Along with Sens. Mike Enzi of Wyoming, Bernie Sanders of Vermont and Ron Wyden of Oregon, Grassley requested the GAO conduct an independent review of the reasons behind DOD's failure to acquire modern financial information technology systems capable of generating reliable information and supporting credible financial statements.  In the fall of 2018, the Pentagon released the results of a full financial audit, showing it failed to produce a clean audit. Grassley commented on those results, saying that they were disappointing but not surprising.  The results of the audit follow multiple calls from Grassley for the DOD to make the changes necessary to pass a full financial audit. In early 2018, Grassley received the results of an audit he requested in 2016 along with then-Sen. Kelly Ayotte of New Hampshire, from the Office of the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR). The results were alarming, showing poor recordkeeping, lack of mission, poor planning and incomplete projects, among other dissatisfactory conclusions. One example of note is the $43 million DOD spent on a gas station in Afghanistan.  Throughout 2018, Grassley engaged repeatedly with DOD leaders, including Principal Deputy Inspector General Glenn A. Fine and Secretary of the Air Force Dr. Heather Wilson, seeking answers as to why the department was wasting $14,000 of taxpayer dollars on individual toilet seat covers and $1,280 on individual water-heating cups  an expense that totaled nearly $326,785 over three years. After Grassley's inquiry, the Air Force stopped purchasing the exorbitantly-priced cups. It still has not provided a complete response for its purchasing of $14,000 individual toilet seat covers.  Grassley raised questions about a DOD Inspector General (IG) audit report on TRICARE overpayments. The report cited improper payments of up to $81.2 million made by the Defense Health Agency (DHA) to TRICARE providers in 2015 and 2016. Despite providing a number of pointed questions aimed at getting to the bottom of these overpayments, Fine side-stepped providing detailed and specific answers in his responseletterto Grassley. In fact, the letter did not include a timetable requested for recovering the TRICARE overpayments, it did not acknowledge accountability for the overpayments and did not recommend solutions to ensure accountability moving forward. DOD currently estimates that it would cost $182 million of taxpayer money to recover the improper payments.  Grassley also pressed Mattis to review which employees were responsible for wasting at least $64.8 million on a plane intended for counter-narcotics work in Afghanistan that never flew a single such mission and was later put up for auction.  DOJ/ FBI:  As a watchdog of the federal bureaucracy, Grassley continues staunch oversight of the Justice Department the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) in 2017. He also built upon longstanding efforts to protect whistleblowers bypressingthe FBI to explain why it has failed to update its whistleblower policies, employee trainings and internal communications to comply with theFederal Bureau of Investigation Whistleblower Protection Enhancement Act(FBI WPEA).  Grassley introduced the new protections last congress to bring FBI whistleblower policies in line with those at other federal agencies. The bipartisan bill was signed into law on December 16, 2016. Grassley alsopressedthe DOJ regarding the FBI's implementation of whistleblower protections. In a letter to DOJ, Grassley outlined a series of concerns about whistleblower protections that have gone unaddressed despite government reports drawing attention to these problems and recommending changes.  Grassleycalled onthe FBI to explain its advance knowledge and any plan to thwart a 2015 terrorist attack in Garland, Texas, andpressedfor answers on how an FBI translator wasreportedlyable to travel to Syria and marry the ISIS operative whom she was supposed to be investigating.  With Whitehouse and Sens. Dianne Feinstein of California and John Cornyn of Texas, Grassley introduced theCombating Money Laundering, Terrorist Financing, and Counterfeiting Act of 2017. The legislation would modernize and strengthen criminal laws againstmoney laundering, update criminal money laundering and counterfeiting statutes and promote transparency in the U.S. financial system.  Grassley and Feinstein also introduced theStrengthening State and Local Cyber Crime Fighting Act of 2017.The legislation wouldauthorize for the first time the National Computer Forensics Institute (NCFI), which provides law enforcement with techniques and best practices for handling digital forensics evidence.  Grassley introduced theLawsuit Abuse Reduction Act,legislation that would put in place stricter rules todeter harmful, abusive and frivolous litigation.  Drug Prices:  Grassley continued to be a leader in the fight to decrease prescription drug costs during the 115th Congress. Along with Durbin, Grassley introduced an amendment, which passed the Senate, to bolster efforts by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to require pharmaceutical companies todisclose prescription list drug pricesin television ads.  Grassley introduced the Right Rebate Act of 2018 with Wyden. The legislation will close a loophole in Medicaid that has allowed pharmaceutical manufacturers to misclassify their drugs and overcharge taxpayers by billions of dollars and provide HHS with additional authorities to ensure drugs are properly classified. Grassley first became aware of the issue during the Obama administration when Iowans regularly contacted him regarding the exorbitantly high cost of the anti-allergy EpiPen device.  Grassley applauded the approval of the first generic version of the EpiPen, an emergency auto-injector of epinephrine used to treat severe, life-threatening allergic reactions. Grassley has been a critic of EpiPen's high cost. After conducting years-long oversight of the issue, Grassley learned that Mylan, EpiPen's distributor, classified its popular anti-allergy medicine as a generic instead of as a brand name product in the Medicaid Drug Rebate Program (MDRP). That incorrect classification allowed Mylan to pay smaller rebates to States and government programs, such as the MDRP.Grassley's investigation also found that the HHS and the HHS Inspector General (IG) did not have adequate authorities to properly oversee the MDRP and ensure drugs were properly classified. The costly practices were confirmed by the HHS IG when it found, at Grassley's request that taxpayers may have overpaid for the EpiPen by as much as $1.27 billion over 10 years. The IG also found that additional drugs could be misclassified.The costly practices were confirmed by the government's internal watchdog when it found that taxpayers may have overpaid for the EpiPen by as much as$1.27 billionover 10 years.  Grassley continuallypressedfor the accurate classification of prescription drugs under the MDRP. Hesought answersfrom the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) on whether it sought to recoup tax dollars overpaid for EpiPens from Mylan. He sent a follow-upletterafter receiving no response from CMS, reiterating his initial request for information. Grassley continued pressing for answers when news broke that EpiPen maker Mylan was in discussions with the DOJ to settle a case and repay the taxpayers for over-charging for EpiPen. Grassley sent a letter to then-President-elect Trump urging appropriate classification under the Medicaid Drug Rebate Program. That letter is availablehere.Grassley also sent a letter to the outgoing Administration on the issue, which is availablehere. His Oct. 3, 2016 letter to the prior administration on the EpiPen misclassification is availablehere. When the DOJ and EpiPen maker Mylan settled its case over the drug's misclassification, Grassley issued astatement of disappointment, saying it shortchanged taxpayers.  On behalf of Iowans, Grassley alsowroteto Iowa Attorney General Tom Miller seeking clarification regarding his office's ability to determine the value of reimbursement to the state necessary to make Iowa whole from EpiPen's apparent misclassification. A few months later, Grassley followed up with anotherletterseeking additional details and accompanying documentation regarding the state's receiving $1.5 million as part of a DOJ settlement with Mylan.  In his capacity as Senate Judiciary chairman, Grassley shepherded the bipartisan Creating and Restoring Equal Access to Equivalent Samples (CREATES) Act through the committee. The legislation, cosponsored by Grassley, would combat anticompetitive practices used by some brand-name pharmaceutical and biologic companies to block lower-cost generic drugs from entering the market.  Grassley introduced the Ensuring the Value of the 340B Program Act to increase transparency in a targeted way into the 340B program, which was created by Congress in theVeterans Health Care Act of 1992and allows hospitals and other health care entities to receive discounted prices on prescription drugs and biologics from drug manufacturers. By law, these drug manufacturers must offer 340B discounts to covered entities in order to participate in the Medicaid program. The statute does not require hospitals to track or report savings or how they are used, however. It also doesn't require hospitals to report the level of charity care they provide to patients. The lack of reporting requirements have resulted in a lack of transparency in this program. This legislation addresses the problem by requiring participating hospitals to report the total acquisition costs for drugs collected through the 340B program, as well as revenues received from all third party payers for those same drugs.  With Ernst and Sen. Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut, Grassley introduced the bipartisan Access to Increased Drug Disposal (AIDD) Act of 2018. The legislation is designed to increase participation in the federal prescription drug take-back programs to help combat prescription drug abuse and the growing opioid epidemic.  Grassley pushed back on prescription drug price discrepancies between the United States and other countries, saying there's no reason that Americans should pay more than anyone else for exactly the same medications.  An advocate for the importation of prescription drugs from Canada, Grassley, along with the late Sen. John McCain of Arizona and Sen. Amy Klobuchar of Minnesotaurgedthen-Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Tom Price to use his statutory authority to fast track the importation of prescription drugs from Canada under certain circumstances as a remedy to recent drastic drug price increases in the United States. Earlier this year, HHS announced it would create a task force to explore prescription drug importation as a way to reduce drug prices in the United States.  At the start of the Congress, Grassley cosponsored the bipartisanPreserve Access to Affordable GenericsAct, which would crack down on anti-competitive agreements between branded and generic companies to postpone entry of generic drugs in the marketplace. These pay-off settlements delay consumer access to generic drugs, which can be as much as 90 percent cheaper than brand-name drugs. The legislation would stop these anti-competitive pay-off agreements to keep more affordable generic equivalents off the market and make sure consumers have access to the cost saving generics they need.  In April, 2017, Grassleyaskedhealth insurer CareFirst to explain an apparent practice of charging customers more for receiving a brand name prescription drug than a generic drug when the insurer's own doctors explicitly prescribed the brand name drug for medical reasons. Grassley also noted due process concerns about this potential practice if the insurer was not complying with its own policies. He also wrote aletterto Kalo Pharmaceuticals, the maker of epinephrine injector Auvi-Q, to explain its pricing, including which entities in the health care system will pay the cited price of $4,500 for a two-pack when consumers without insurance will pay $360 for the product. Grassley said the pricing of Auvi-Q appears to draw parallels with concern about EpiPen's pricing structure.  Education:  As part of his extensive oversight work, Grassley sought answers from then-U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions on whether the DOJ has made efforts to look into Confucius Institutes. These institutes are controlled by the government of China and exist within colleges and universities under the guise of teaching Chinese language, culture in history, but too often their activities are political in nature and intended to influence American policy and public opinion.  Grassley sent a letter to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Director Dr. Francis S. Collins seeking information about the vetting processes in place at NIH regarding foreign researchers and public grants and the steps NIH has taken to ensure the integrity of taxpayer funded research. Grassley cited a case from 2013 in which foreign researchers were charged with conspiring to steal research funded by a multi-million dollar NIH grant for the benefit of a Chinese governmental entity and a direct competitor of the American university where the research was conducted.  Grassley sent a letter to then-DHS Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen asking for information on the Student and Exchange Visitor Program that allows private institutions to manage visas for foreign students seeking enrollment in a U.S.-based school with limited oversight. The program creates a perverse incentive for the foreign students, the schools that recruit them and the employers that hire them, all of whom benefit from the program at the expense of American workers and taxpayers. There is no cap for the number of foreign students who can enroll in the program.  Grassley also introduced a series of bills aimed at providing students and their families a better idea of the true costs of higher education and giving them the tools needed to make informed decisions based on tuition costs, financial aid and loan and repayment options.  TheNet Price Calculator Improvement Actwould improve the effectiveness and access to net price calculators, tools that provide students with early, individualized estimates of higher education costs and financial aid figures before they decide where to apply.  TheUnderstanding the True Cost of College Actwould create a universal financial aid award letter so that students could easily compare financial aid packages between schools. It would clarify what financial aid families would receive from a school and create standard terms for the aid offered so that students could accurately compare offers from different schools.  TheKnow Before You Owe Federal Student Loan Actwould increase the amount of information students receive about federal student loans, including their potential ability to repay, before rather than after signing up for tens of thousands of dollars in debt to Uncle Sam.  Grassley cosponsored the Teachers Are Leaders Act, which would create partnerships between colleges and high-need schools to develop and support innovative teacher leader roles, which would support efforts already underway in Iowa.  Additionally, Grassley and fellow legislators have worked with federal agencies to clarify that nonprofit lenders, including state-run or state-chartered organizations, can use tax-exempt bonds for student loan refinancing, which will expand the number of options for those seeking to refinance federal student loans. Along with 14 fellow senators, Grassleyurgedthe Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and Treasury Department to make technical clarifications to rules on refinancing options for student debt.  Grassley also offered a resolution designating March 3, 2017 as""National Speech and Debate Education Day,"" which passed the Senate by unanimous consent.  Grassley also offered a resolution designating the week beginning October 15, 2017, as ""National Character Counts Week,"" which passed the Senate with unanimous consent.  Energy:  As a champion of renewable fuels and an all-of-the-above American energy policy, Grassley continued his extensive work to enact responsible energy policies during the 115th Congress.  Grassley has been a leader in the effort to allow the sale of year-round E15. After regular correspondence with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and meetings at the White House, President Trump announced in October 2018 that he has instructed the EPA to begin the process of allowing year-round use of E15.  Grassley has also led the fight to maintain a strong Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS). He led efforts to put pressure on the EPA to stop issuing hardship waivers to obligated refiners as well as make the waiver process more transparent and highlight the importance of the RFS to President Trump.  In November 2018, the EPA announced its 2019 renewable volume obligations (RVOs) under the RFS. Grassley applauded the increases projections and noted them as a bright spot in the agricultural economy and for farmers after regularly underwhelming and often disappointing news from then-EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt.  Prior to the Administration taking action on E15, Grassley, along with Sens. Deb Fischer of Nebraska and Joe Donnelly of Indiana, introduced the Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act, which would extend the Reid Vapor Pressure (RVP) waiver to ethanol blends above 10 percent, increasing market opportunities for higher blends of ethanol. It would also allow retailers to sell E15 and other higher-ethanol/gasoline fuel blends year-round.  Much of Grassley's energy agenda focused on the RFS. Grassley worked extensively with Senate colleagues, President Trump and the EPA to find ways forward on renewable energies and fulfill congressional intent on the RFS.  Under new proposed rules, America's commitment to biofuels would have been decreased,resulting in less renewable fuels being blended. In aletter, Grassley and a bipartisan group of 23 senators urged President Trumpto maintain the point of obligation under the RFS and reject changes that would upend the current successful system. In November 2017, EPA announced it would maintain the point of obligation.  Grassley also sent aletterto Pruitt asking him to supporta strong RFS as the agency worked toward finalizing its rule on biofuels volume requirements for 2018 under the RFS. The letter urged the continued implementation of the RFS as intended by Congress and the release of a strong final rule that would give consumers more choices at the pump, strengthen the economy and make the country more secure.  Grassley continued to put pressure on the EPA by joining Sens. Heidi Heitkamp of North Dakota, Roy Blunt of Missouri, Patty Murray of Washington and a bipartisan group of 29 senators in aletterurging the agency to increase its proposed 2019 RVOs for biodiesel. The move would encourage growth in the industry and diversity in the nation's energy supply.  Grassleyraised concernstoEnergy Secretary Rick Perry regarding a study he directed that appeared geared toward undermining the wind energy industry. The study was meant to explore issues central to protecting the long-term reliability of the electricity grid, including an investigation of market-distorting federal policies that create acute and chronic problems for maintaining adequate baseload generation and have impacted reliable generators of all types. Grassley asked a series of questions about the study, including which organizations that analyze grid reliability and security would be involved, whether a contractor would conduct it, the cost to taxpayers and whether stakeholders would be able to comment on a draft.  Grassley and other Midwestern senatorsreceived several assurancesin a letterfrom Pruitt ensuring that the EPA would not follow through on a proposal that would have undermined the integrity of the RFS. The letter from Pruitt can be foundhere.This came after Grassley led several letters and meetings on the issue.   Grassley led a bipartisan group of senatorsurgingU.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer to work with the Brazilian government to end a recently reinstated 20 percent tariff on ethanol imports in excess of 600 million liters (158 million gallons) annually. The United States is the primary exporter of ethanol into Brazil. U.S. producers called Brazil's tariff plan a trade barrier that threatens over $750 million in U.S. exports and American jobs.  Grassley was presented with the 2018 Fueling Growth award by Growth Energy for his strong support and consistent work on behalf of ethanol.  Grassley was presented with the 2018 American Wind Energy Association's U.S. Wind Champion award by the American Wind Energy Association for his support for wind energy technologies.  Grassley was presented with the 2018 Innovator in Biotechnology award by the Biotechnology Innovation Organization, recognizing his contributions to the biotechnology industries.  Federal Judiciary:  Grassley presided over a historic number of federal judicial confirmations during the 115th Congress, including the confirmation of two Supreme Court justices. As Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, Grassley rigorously vetted and reviewed judicial nominations to ensure our federal judges will interpret and apply the law as written, not legislate from the bench based on policy preferences. President Trump has endeavored to nominate constitutionalist and textualist judges who understand the role of the judiciary in our constitutional system. Under Grassley's leadership, the committee oversaw the confirmation of a record 30 circuit court judges, which is the most circuit court confirmations in the first two years of any presidency in history. These confirmations will have an important impact on our country not just for this Congress or presidency, but for decades to come.  Foster youth, adoption, missing children, families and elder care:  Throughout his career, Grassley has been a staunch advocate for children and families. He continued his work on these issues in the 115th Congress by introducing a number of bills aimed at protecting special needs children, preventing elder abuse, encouraging elder independence and funding programs to improve family health.  Grassley and Klobuchar introduced Kevin and Avonte's Law, named in honor of two boys with autism who perished after wandering from safety. This bipartisan bill unanimously passed the Senate and later was enacted as part of an omnibus spending measure. The legislation will help families locate missing loved ones with Alzheimer's disease, Autism and related conditions. It would also support training for caregivers to prevent and respond to instances of wandering.  Grassley, along with Feinstein, Klobuchar and Sens. Orrin Hatch of Utah and Rob Portman of Ohio, introduced the bipartisan Missing Children's Assistance Act of 2018, which would make resources available for the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) to continue its fight against child abduction and exploitation. The bill became law in October of 2018.  Grassley and Feinstein pressed Sessions to enforce the International Parental Kidnapping Crime Act and ensure all American children are returned to the United States after international parental child abduction. Grassley and Feinstein, along with Sens. Ted Cruz of Texas and Bob Menendez of New Jersey, introduced a bipartisan resolution designating the month of April as International Parental Child Abduction Month, which passed the Senate.  Grassley, along with Sen. Tim Kaine of Virginia, led a bipartisan group of senators in sending a letter to Assistant Secretary for Family Support Lynn Johnson, urging her to implement recommendations from a recent HHS IG report that would help foster children who appear to be overprescribed psychotropic medications.  Along with Stabenow and Sens. Michael Bennet of Colorado and Todd Young of Indiana, Grassley sent a letter to HHS Secretary Alex Azar asking him to ensure that the implementation of theFamily First Prevention Services Act(FFPSA) will help older youth avoid foster care entry or re-entry, and successfully transition out of care.  Grassley, along with Menendez, introduced the bipartisanBuilding Capacity for Family Focused Residential Treatment Act, a grant program to help child welfare agencies, treatment centers or non-profit organizations establish evidence-based, family-focused residential treatment programs. This legislation was signed into law as part of a package of bills to help alleviate the opioid crisis.  Grassley continued his aggressive oversight of elder care in nursing homes. After the death of an elderly woman in Buffalo Center, Iowa, reportedly due to neglect by nursing home staff, Grassley repeatedly sought answers from CMS Administrator Seema Verma about the agency's oversight efforts of nursing homes.  Grassley introduced theStrong Families Act of 2017,legislation which would re-authorize the Maternal, Infant and Early Childhood Home Visiting Program, a program that provides grants to states, territories and tribal entities to develop and implement evidence-based, voluntary programs to improve maternal and child health, prevent child abuse and promote child development and school readiness.  A strong advocate for fostering and adoption programs, Grassley introduced theFoster Youth Independence Act of 2017,which allows states to provide assistance and services under the John H. Chafee Foster Care Independence Program to young adults who have aged out of foster care until the age of 23. This bill was signed into law as part of the Family First Prevention Services Act.   Grassley also introduced theFostering Stable Housing Opportunities Act of 2017,legislation which would grantpriority preference for federal housing assistance to foster youth who are aging out of care and allow youth in foster care to apply for housing assistance at the age of 16, prior to aging out.  Focusing on the health and well-being of America's senior citizens, Grassley introduced theCommunity-based Independence for Seniors Act, legislation that would allow older Americans to receive individualized care that would help them continue to stay in their own homes rather than nursing homes.  Grassley also introduced theElder Abuse Prevention and Prosecution Act, which became law. The law enhances enforcement against perpetrators of crimes targeting senior citizens. Specifically, it increases training for federal investigators and prosecutors and calls for the designation of at least one prosecutor in each federal judicial district who will be tasked with handling cases of elder abuse.It also ensures that the FTC's Bureau of Consumer Protection and the DOJ will both have an elder justice coordinator and increases penalties for perpetrators.  Grassleysought informationfrom a Florida assisted living facility about criminal charges filed against an employee who allegedly violated the privacy of two residents using Snapchat. The case is one of the latest examples of exploitive videos or photos involving elder care facilities on Snapchat, Instagram and Facebook.  Along with Ernst, Grassley sent aletterto the DOJ asking for an explanation regarding penalties against an Iowa nursing home that was ordered closed and to pay $100,000 to federal taxpayers over grossly substandard care that was essentially without value. Grassley and Ernst said the Abbey of Le Mars was on a federal watch list for two years during the Obama administration because of concerns about care.  Grassley also offered a resolutionrecognizing National Foster Care Month as an opportunity to raise awareness about the challenges of children in the foster-care system, and encourage Congress to implement policies to improve the lives of children in the foster-care system. It passed the Senate with unanimous consent.  Good Government and Transparency:  Grassley introduced theAmerican Red Cross Transparency Act of 2017, bipartisan, bicameral legislation that would give the Government Accountability Office complete access to American Red Cross records for oversight purposes. The bill also responds to concerns that the Red Cross tried to quash a GAO review of its practices, successfully limiting the scope of the review.  In his continuing effort to drain the swamp, Grassley excoriated the Office of Legal Counsel (OLC)in its attempt to insulate unelected government bureaucrats from questions by the people's elected representatives in Congress and called on President Trump to rescind the OLC opinion. In hisletter, Grassley laid out the constitutional case for every member of Congress to exercise their powers of inquiry and oversight of the executive bureaucracy, regardless of committee membership or chairmanship. He emphasized the importance of oversight and inquiry regardless of partisan affiliation. In response to his inquiry, the White House has committed to voluntarily answer all congressional inquiries, not just those from committee chairmen.  GrassleyurgedtheOffice of Management and Budget (OMB) Director Mick Mulvaney to ensure that any executive branch ethics pledge waivers granted by the Trump administration are immediately provided to the U.S. Office of Government Ethics (OGE) and made publicly available. Grassley made asimilar requestof the Obama administration in 2009.Those waivers were ultimately published on OGE's website following Grassley's request.  Grassley also sent letters to HHS, Mattis and Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross regarding issues relating to wasteful government spending by bureaucrats and government efficiency and accountability.  Grassley introduced theSunshine for Regulatory Decrees and Settlements Act of 2017,legislation which would end the practice of creating new federal red tape outside of the public rulemaking process, shine a light on sue-and-settle litigation and restore the transparency, public scrutiny and judicial review protections of the rulemaking process.  Grassley also introduced the bipartisanCameras in the Courtroom Act of 2017, whichwould require the Supreme Court to permit television coverage of all open sessions of the Court. The legislation allows the Court to restrict cameras only if it decides, by a majority vote that televised proceedings would constitute a violation of the due process rights of one or more of the parties before the Court.  Grassley offered two resolutions pertaining to classified documents about the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, which were being held by the National Archives and Records Administration. The first urged the National Archives and Records Administration to publicly release records detailing the assassination, the second commending the National Archives and Records Administration and its staff for working to comply with the President John F. Kennedy Assassination Records Collection Act of 1992 and release all records related to the assassination.  Gun Violence:  As chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, Grassley has worked to find solutions to prevent gun violence at schools. Grassley is a strong supporter of Second Amendment rights, but has continued to be a leader in the effort to keep guns out of the hands of criminals and dangerous people. Grassley held a hearing entitled See Something, Say Something in the aftermath of the Parkland Shooting to discuss legislative steps to improve school safety.  In addition, in the aftermath of the Las Vegas and Sutherland Springs shootings, Grassley held a hearing entitled Firearm Accessory Regulation and Enforcing Federal and State Reporting to the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS). Grassley also supported the Administration's regulatory effort to restrict the sale of bump stock devises such as those used in the Las Vegas shooting.  With Hatch and a group of bipartisan senators, Grassley introduced the Students, Teachers, and Officers Preventing (STOP) School Violence Act of 2018. The legislation funds school security improvements and invests in early intervention and prevention programs to stop school violence before it happens. Grassley successfully negotiated with appropriators and the White House to make sure that this program received the funding it deserved and fought for its inclusion in the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2018, which the President signed into law in March of 2018.  Along with Cruz, Grassley reintroduced the Protecting Communities and Preserving the Second Amendment Act of 2018. The legislation improves school safety and prevents guns from falling into the wrong hands by ensuring that relevant agencies and institutions accurately submit records to the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS). Grassley also cosponsored Cornyn's bill, the Fix NICS Act of 2017, which gives incentives for state and federal government agencies to improve their reporting into the NICS system. The legislation was signed into law in March of 2018.  Grassley joined Sen. Lamar Alexander of Tennessee and a group of senators in introducing the School Safety &amp; Mental Health Services Improvement Act. The legislation would allow 100,000 public schools to improve school safety by using federal dollars for school counselors, alarm systems, security cameras and crisis intervention training.   Grassley introduced the EAGLES Act, along with Hatch and Sen. Marco Rubio of Florida, to expand the U.S. Secret Service's National Threat Assessment Center to help communities proactively mitigate threats of violence at schools by establishing a national program on targeted school violence prevention and providing additional resources to expand research and training on a national scale. The bill also requires Secret Service to develop an expansion plan and to provide periodic progress reports to Congress.  Grassley pressed the FBI, Facebook and Google Inc., which owns YouTube, to explain why warnings about threats by the man who later carried out the Parkland shooting did not result in preventative action.  Health care   Grassley signed on to the bipartisan Facilitating Accessible Resources for Mental Health and Encouraging Rural Solutions For Immediate Response to Stressful Times (FARMERS FIRST) Act, legislation introduced Ernst and Sen. Tammy Baldwin of Wisconsin that would provide the nation's agricultural community with critical mental health support and resources.  Grassley introduced the bipartisan Accelerating Access to Kids Care Act with Bennet. The legislation, would provide an optional service for families of children with complex medical needs that would improve the coordination of their care across multiple health care providers. Grassley and Bennet, along with Portman, Blunt, Murray, Brown and Sens. Kamala Harris of California, Bill Nelson of Florida and Cory Gardner of Colorado, also reintroduced the Advancing Care for Exceptional (ACE) Kids Act. The legislation will improve health care delivery for children with complex medical needs by streamlining the credentialing process, in Medicaid, for certain pediatric health care providers, across state lines.  Grassley joined Sen. Thom Tillis of North Carolina in introducing theEnsuring Coverage for Patients with Pre-Existing Conditions Act, legislation that would guarantee Americans have health care coverage, regardless of their health status or pre-existing conditions.  After the outbreak of a mysterious, polio-like illness, Grassley joined Ernst, Klobuchar and Sen. Tina Smith of Minnesota in sending a letter to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) urging them to investigate and respond to recent cases.  Along with Hatch, Grassley requested specific information from the IRS regarding their oversight activities of nonprofit hospitals after media reports brought forward questions about whether some nonprofit hospitals were meeting the criteria for tax-exempt status, serving their communities appropriately and serving individuals in need regardless of ability to pay.  Grassley joined Sen. Bill Cassidy of Louisiana and a bipartisan group of senators of the bipartisan Senate health care price transparency working group, in releasing draft legislation called the Protecting Patients from Surprise Medical Bills Act, which aims to protect patients from surprise medical bills. The draft bill is intended to jumpstart discussions in Congress about how to best stop the use of balanced billing to charge patients for emergency treatment or treatment provided by an out-of-network provider at an in-network facility.  With Warren, Grassley introduced theOver-the-Counter Hearing Aid Act, which became law as part of the FDA Reauthorization Act. The bipartisan measure requires the FDA to write regulations ensuring that the new category of over-the-counter hearing aids meets the same high standards for safety, consumer labeling and manufacturing protections as all medical devices, providing consumers the option of an FDA-regulated device at lower cost.  Along with Brown and Sen. Bob Casey of Pennsylvania, Grassley reintroduced thePharmacy and Medically Underserved Areas Enhancement Act, bipartisan legislation which would encourage pharmacists to serve older Americans in communities lacking easy access to doctors or where pharmacists are more convenient to visit for certain services than doctors.  Grassley also reintroduced theProvider Payment Sunshine Act, legislation that would require drug companies and medical device makers to publicly disclose their payments to nurse practitioners and physician assistants for promotional talks, consulting and other interactions. The disclosures already apply to doctors, dentists, chiropractors, optometrists and podiatrists under thePhysician Payment Sunshine Act, co-authored by Grassley and enacted in 2010.  Along with Klobuchar, Grassley introduced theReducing Drug Waste Act of 2017,bipartisan legislation which wouldrequire the FDA to coordinate with CMS to develop a joint action plan to reduce waste generated by single use drug vials and better manage costs with respect to drug vial sizes and other drug delivery systems, such as eye-drops.  In his continued support for rural health care, Grassley introduced theRural Hospital Access Act of 2017,which would permanently extend key Medicare rural hospital programs critical to five Iowa hospitals and many others around the country. He also reintroduced theRural Emergency Acute Care Hospital (REACH) Act, which would help rural hospitals stay open while meeting the needs of rural residents for emergency room care and outpatient services.  Grassley, along with Sen. Mark Warner of Virginia, reintroduced theMedicare Orthotics and Prosthetics Improvement Act, bipartisan legislation that would apply accreditation and other standards for orthotics and prosthetics, such as prosthetic limbs, under Medicare, helping to guarantee access to quality products for beneficiaries.  Housing:  Grassleycontinued hisoversightof TARP's Hardest Hit Fund (HHF), a $9.6 billion program that began in 2010 to help homeowners who suffered during the housing crisis.Wasteful spending of these funds by state agencies persisted unchecked for many years of the Obama administration, and the need for accountability remains. In a continuation of Grassley's request to audit state agency expenses, the Special Inspector General for the Troubled Asset Relief Program (SIGTARP) isreviewingstate agency spending on travel, conferences and other administrative spending. Grassley alsopressedthe Treasury Department on why it has recovered only one percent $113,592 of $11 million  wasted on restaurant meals, employee gifts and a $500-per-month company Mercedes from the HHF.  Grassleyaskedthe Buffalo Municipal Housing Authority and newly-confirmed Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Ben Carson to explain potentially excessive travel and conference expenses by the housing authority, including that the executive director reportedly has spent 158 days over four years attending conferences.Grassley alsocalled onthe HUD OIG to complete its investigation into the mismanagement at the Alexander County Housing Authority (ACHA) in Cairo, Illinois, and make its findings public.  Grassley met with Carson prior to his confirmation, at which time he raised concerns about millions of dollars of wasteful spending at HUD. In an effort to assist public housing authorities (PHAs), the federal government allows PHAs to establish nonprofit affiliates through which development activities are conducted. However, PHAs throughout the country often use taxpayer dollars to fund personal priorities and feather their own nests rather than to provide safe, affordable housing for those in need.  Grassleywroteto Carson concerning the agency's two failed projects to update its financial management system. HUD spent 14 years and more than $131 million only to pull the plug on both projects prior to completion.  Illegal and illicit drugs:  Congress passed and President Trump signed into law the SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Act, which included seven separate bills approved earlier this year by the Senate Judiciary Committee under Chairman Grassley's leadership, including:  The Access to Increased Drug Disposal Act of 2018, which will encourage increased participation of authorized collectors in drug take back programs by awarding grants to states. It will focus particular attention on states within the lowest quartile of participation in take back programs.  The Opioid Quota Reform Act, which will empower the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to consider additional factors when setting annual quotas for opioid drug production in the United States. Currently, DEA can only consider past sales and estimated demand. This bill allows the agency to take into account diversion, abuse, overdose deaths and public health impacts when setting quotas.  The Substance Abuse Prevention Act, which will reauthorize the Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP), keeping the Drug-Free Communities (DFC) and High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA) programs within that office. It will also boost public awareness of opioid and heroin addiction as authorized under theComprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act(CARA), provide resources for families to stay together when one is battling substance abuse and require the attorney general and HHS to complete a plan for educating and training health care providers in best practices for prescribing controlled substances.  The Synthetic Abuse and Labeling of Toxic Substances Act of 2017, which will close a legal loophole that inhibits the prosecution of opioid analogue traffickers by clarifying when a controlled substance analogue is or is not intended for human consumption.  The Using Data to Prevent Opioid Diversion Act of 2018, which will require DEA to use anonymized data to track and prevent the diversion of prescription opioids into illegal sales. The data will be available to registrants, and will include the total number of distributors serving a single pharmacy or practitioner and the total number of opioid pills distributed to a single pharmacy or practitioner.  The Preventing Drug Diversion Act of 2018, which will amend the Controlled Substances Act to define suspicious order and will require registrants to design a system to identify suspicious orders, and notify DEA of those orders.  The Eliminating Kickbacks in Recovery Act of 2018, which will prohibit sober home and substance abuse treatment centers, as well as their employees, from receiving or providing kickbacks for patient referrals. While this bill was referred to but not voted on in committee, Grassley worked closely with its lead sponsor Rubio, during its formulation and helped shepherd it into the final package passed by the Senate.  Grassley introduced the bipartisan Addiction Treatment Quality Improvement Act with Warner and Nelson. The legislation would require CMS to work with a coalition of health care providers to identify quality measures to be used to assess the effectiveness of substance use disorder treatment programs.  Along with Brown and Blumenthal, Grassley introduced the bipartisan Fighting the Opioid Epidemic with Sunshine Act, which would increase transparency in the prescription drug payment process by requiring drug companies and medical device makers to publicly disclose the same payments made to nurse practitioners and physician assistants for promotional talks, consulting, and other interactions.  Grassley continued to raise awareness about the flow of fentanyl into the United States from China as part of Congress's larger effort to curb the opioid epidemic. Grassley also applauded President Trump's 2018 agreement with Chinese President Xi to have the Chinese government crack-down on this issue and help stem the flow of the deadly drug into the United States.  Along with Feinstein, Grassley re-introduced theProtecting Kids from Candy-Flavored Drugs Act, legislation that would increase the criminal penalties for marketing candy-flavored drugs to appeal to children.It would provide an enhanced penalty when a person manufactures, creates, distributes, dispenses or possesses with intent to distribute a controlled substance combined with a beverage or candy product, marketed or packaged to appear similar to a beverage or candy product, or modified by flavoring or coloring to appear similar to a candy or beverage product.  Grassley and Feinstein also introduced theStop the Importation and Trafficking of Synthetic Analogues (SITSA) Act of 2017,which would allow substances that are substantially similar to controlled drugs to be rapidly regulated without additional time-consuming testing and analysis. Grassley also led a group of senators in a call for the Trump administration to prioritize the Office of National Drug Control Policy in the Fiscal Year 2018 budget. Thelettercited the previous success of the office in preventing use of illicit drugs in American communities. This important effort has only increased in light of the ongoing opioid epidemic across the country.  As part of that ongoing effort to fight opioid abuse, Grassley joined a bipartisan group of legislators in aletterto Sessions asking him to provide Congress with information detailing how the DOJ is supporting and prioritizing forensic science service providers across the nation as part of a broader approach to combat the opioid epidemic.  Along with Ernst, Grassleyurgedthe Office of National Drug Control Policy to include an evaluation of drug take back programs in the final report of the President's Commission on Combatting Opioid Abuse, correcting a shortcoming in the interim report. At Grassley and Ernst's request, the GAO is studying the DEA's implementation of the law allowing local pharmacies to accept unused controlled substances for public convenience, amid concerns that regulations present barriers to participation.  Infrastructure:  Grassley has been a vocal advocate for disaster relief funding on behalf of Cedar Rapids since the floods in 2008. Grassley, along with Ernst and Congressman Rod Blum,pressedthe Army Corps of Engineers for answers on funding for the project after regular delays by the Army Corps of Engineers. In June of 2018, the Army Corps of Engineers announced its plans to move forward with disaster recovery efforts in Cedar Rapids. A history of Grassley's efforts on this issue is available here.  Grassley, a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee and lifelong family farmer, joined Blunt and Baldwin in sending a letter to Mulvaney urging the Administration to include sufficient funding in its fiscal year 2019 budget request to continue preconstruction engineering and design for the Navigation and Ecosystem Sustainability Program (NESP). Grassley worked with a bipartisan group of Senators to get the NESP Program, a multi-purpose program aimed at upgrading critical Upper Mississippi River System navigation lock and dam infrastructure and providing an integrated approach to addressing Mississippi River ecosystem restoration, authorized in the Water Resources Development Act of 2007.Grassley has advocated for funding to improve Iowa's aging waterways for more than a decade.Grassley also joined Durbin in sending a bipartisan letter to James of the Army Corps of Engineers urging it to provide sufficient funding for NESP for fiscal year 2019 while ensuring the timely completion of the project's economic update funded by the fiscal year 2018 work plan.  Immigration and Visas:  Grassley called on the Trump administration to seek an agreement with Mexico to assist in accommodating a steady stream of migrants traveling through Mexico seeking asylum. The senators noted acknowledgements by Obama administration officials that potential security threats are exploiting immigration vulnerabilities to enter the United States. An agreement was announced in December 2018. Grassley also called for briefings from the Departments of State and Homeland Security on potential national security threats relating to the migrant caravan.  Grassley and a group of senators introduced the Keep Families Together and Enforce the Law Act, which would require that children and their parents remain together during immigration or asylum legal proceedings. Grassley advocated for the repealing of the Flores v. Reno settlement in order to stop family separations at the border and hosted a Judiciary member briefing on family reunification. Along with Feinstein, Grassley also sought an investigation into allegations of sexual, physical and emotional abuse at U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and HHS detention facilities charged with holding unauthorized immigrants.  Grassley, along with Ernst, Cornyn, Tillis, Cotton and Sens. David Perdue of Georgia and James Lankford of Oklahoma, introduced the Secure and Succeed Act, which would appropriate $25 billion for real border security such as physical and virtual fencing, radar and other technologies. It would provide for additional personnel for border control and ends key loopholes in current law that allow dangerous criminals to enter our country.It would also prospectively limit family-based immigration to the nuclear family and reallocates the Diversity Visa lottery, while grandfathering in all pending family-based visa applications in order to reward those who chose to follow the law and immigrate legally.  Grassley sought information on a number of cases in which illegal activity was conducted by someone in the United States illegally. Grassley wrote to Nielsen seeking details on a man and 13 year-old girl who were apprehended by Customs and Border Patrol after illegally crossing the southern border. After the man fraudulently claimed the young girl as his daughter, both were released under conditions that they maintain contact with federal officials as an alternative to detention (ATD). The girl was later found to have been sexually abused.  In a letter to then-Homeland Security Secretary John Kelly, Grassley asked how a man illegally in the country with a long, violent criminal record and multiple encounters with immigration officials could be allowed not only to remain in the country, but also be granted a work permit. The man, Armando Rodrigo Garcia-Ramirez, waschargedin the murder of his 15-year-old stepdaughter, who was nine months pregnant with their second child. Grassley also requested the records of two teens who entered the country illegally and were charged with brutal raping a high school classmate, as well as information about the criminal and immigration history of an unauthorized immigrant who nearly killed a 6-year-old child while drunk driving.  Grassley and Sen. Jeanne Shaheen of New Hampshire requested the reauthorization of the Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) program for Afghans who have supported U.S. military or diplomatic efforts in Afghanistan, asking leaders of the Senate Appropriations Committee to include language in a forthcoming appropriations package that would allow for an additional 4,000 visas.  Grassley reintroduced theTaking Action Against Drunk Drivers Act, legislation that would require federal immigration authorities to take action against undocumented immigrants arrested for driving under the influence. Grassley first introduced the bill followingseveral tragediesinvolving immigrants who were arrested for drunk driving, including one incident that claimed the life of 21-year-old Iowan Sarah Root.  In 2017, Grassley introduced theSecurity, Enforcement, and Compassion United in Reform Efforts, (SECURE) Act, legislation which would protect and provide certainty to DACA recipients, and improve the lawful immigration system by targeting illegal immigration and criminal aliens. The bill contains provisions from several immigration proposals, including Durbin's bipartisan BRIDGE Act, which would protect DACA recipients from deportation.  Grassley reintroduced the Accountability Through Electronic Verification Act, which would permanently authorize and require employers to use the E-Verify program, an Internet-based system that assists employers in determining the eligibility of employees to work in the United States.   Grassley wrote oversight letters to Lighthizer, Kelly, then-Secretary of State Rex Tillerson,acting director of Homeland Security Elaine Duke, the Department of Labor (DOL) and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce on a wide range of issues related to visas and immigration. Several letters focused on obtaining information regarding theDiversity Visa program,the process by which DHS reviews theTemporary Protected Status(TPS) designation, and theO visa program. Grassley also raised questions about theForeign Agents Registration Act(FARA) andH-2Bforeign worker andEB-5investor visa programs.  Juvenile Justice:  Grassley introduced the Juvenile Justice Delinquency Prevention Reauthorization Act of 2017 to improve protections for minors who come into contact with the justice system and led the bicameral negotiations that resulted in the final version of the legislation. The final version, the Juvenile Justice Reform Act of 2018, is now headed President Trump to be signed into law after passing both chambers unanimously earlier this month. Its passage represents the first time in 16 years that Congress has reauthorized this federal grant program.  Law enforcement:  In honor of the service and sacrifice made by the men and women in law enforcement, Grassley introduced a resolution designating the week of May 15 through May 21, 2017, as ""National Police Week,"" which passed the Senate with unanimous consent.  ThePublic Safety Officers' Benefits Improvement Act, which became law in June 2017, helps families of fallen first responders receive the survivor benefits they'd been promised. Congress established the Public Safety Officers' Benefits Program in 1976 to provide death benefits to survivors of officers who die in the line of duty. Grassley's oversight revealed, however, that many of these survivors were waiting years to receive their benefits. His legislation will reduce this wait time and provide greater accountability in the process.  Thousands of U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) officers tasked with h",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2018/12/concordia-blade-empire,Concordia Blade-Empire: Moran offers support for Concordia's IAP grant application,2018-12-28,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,KS,Jerry Moran,M000934,www.moran.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Moran offers support for Concordia's IAP grant applicationConcordia Blade-Empire  Friday, December 28
Offering his support for Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Airport Improvement Grant application submitted by the city of Concordia, U.S. Senator Jerry Moran visited Blosser Municipal Airport on Thursday to gather information on the proposed project.  The city, in October 2018, submitted the grant application to the FAA seeking funds to construct a new runway east of the existing runway and an estimated cost of $6.5 million. There is no local match necessary for the grant. The United State Congress authorized an additional $1 billion for the Airport Improvement Program (IAP). Pleasing to me is that it is a priority program for rural communities. That doesn't happen very often in Washington D.C. Moran (R-Kansas) said.  About $200 million has been awarded for 37 projects, and there is a total of $11 billion in applications. There are currently eight applications in Kansas pending, and Moran is expecting the decision to be made on the Concordia application in the first half of 2020. I want to be in position to be helpful to this community as this grant application makes its way across the desks of the people at the FAA, Moran said. Steve Richard, who serves on the Airport Advisory Board, said that the current runway, which is 3,600 feet long, was constructed in 1984. Richard said that the Airport Master Plan was updated in 2013. An environmental impact study for a longer runway was done and land was acquired. The Master Plan, which included a 4,800 foot runway, was signed off on by the FAA. When this program came down for the billion dollars we all had a smile on our faces, and said we have a shovel ready project, lets do it, Richard said. When approached on the project, the FAA determined a longer runway wasn't need. Moran asked Brad Waller, branch manager for Bensch in Manhattan, why if the longer runway was in the Master Plan, the FAA now says it is not needed. Really its a change over in personnel, Waller said, It was approved in 2018 as a 4,800-foot runway. Waller said that one of the drivers for the longer runway in 2013 was the proposed construction of a new hospital located near the airport. That hospital was going to have direct runway access and direct taxiing access for Life Flight, for physicians to come in and out of the hospital on a weekly, monthly basis, Waller said. A bond election to fund the construction of the new hospital did not pass. When that didn't pass then we went back to the drawing board and kind of let that go, because it was the catalyst for the funding, Waller said.  Moran asked if the FAA in Kansas City supports the plan for the new runway, but just not lengthened. They support it as an airport reconstruction project, Waller said, The question is going to be, hopefully if it gets funded, what is that ultimate length is going to be. Waller also said that the width of the runway is also a consideration. The current runway is 60-feet wide, and the new runway would be 75-feet wide. The length will be what the length is. We are going to fight for as long as we can, but we really want to get that 75-foot width, Waller said.  JP Metzler of RMA Engineering, Inc., which has an office located on the airport, said that his company has three planes and would like to go to (Beechcraft) King Air. The problem is we can't go to those King Airs until we get a longer strip, for safety issues, Metzler said.  CloudCorp executive director Ashley Hutchinson told Moran that there were letters signed by people who said they would land bigger aircraft at the airport if they had the opportunity to. Since RMA has come in we have had a few businesses interested in expanding out here. So that is the next step for us to really grow, Hutchinson said. Waller said that by constructing the new runway to the east of the existing one, it opens up room for development. Right now there is not really room for development or expansion of a business, or hangers or what have you. Once you move that, and you get your safety zones cleared up, it is going to open up a lot of space for businesses and development, Waller said. Moran said that what was being highlighted to him was the necessity for a longer runway, or a wider runway. If you could load me up on the information you have about if you build it what will come, I am happy to make that case to folks in Kansas City, Moran said. Moran said that there has to be some way that the FAA understand that you can't just look at what it is today. Why are we expanding an airport? Because of growth that will occur, Moran said, That is common sense. There can't be a policy that says it just has to be here before you can decide if we can expand your airport. Click here to read more.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.portman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=E70E4FEC-11D1-420A-AB6A-D3EBA9E5C201,Corker Announces Portman Will Lead Congressional Efforts to End Modern Slavery Worldwide,2018-12-28,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,OH,Rob Portman,P000449,www.portman.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.  As his time in Congress comes to a close, U.S. Senator Bob Corker (R-Tenn.), chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, today announced that Senator Rob Portman (R-Ohio) will take the helm of congressional efforts to combat modern slavery and human trafficking worldwide.
For years, Senator Portman has been a champion in Congress in the fight against human trafficking here at home, and I can think of no one better to take up the mantle in the global fight against this scourge on humanity as I depart the Senate, said Corker. With passage of the End Modern Slavery Initiative Act and launch of the Global Fund to End Modern Slavery, we have made great progress in this fight, but much more work remains. While I plan to continue to play a role in this fight as a private citizen, I am incredibly grateful that Rob has agreed to take the helm in Congress to ensure this important work continues as we strive to end modern slavery once and for all.
I am honored that Senator Corker has entrusted me with this role and I want to thank him for his tireless and courageous efforts to combat this horrific crime around the globe, said Portman. Over the past decade we have made progress but there is much more to do both in the U.S. and in other countries to help end this scourge once and for all.
BACKGROUND:

More than 27 million people are enslaved around the world, more than at any time in history. While U.S. government agencies and non-profit organizations have taken significant steps to end this scourge on humanity, much more work remains. Recognizing the United States could not meet this challenge alone, three years ago, Senator Corker proposed a bold, bipartisan initiative to end modern slavery and human trafficking worldwide.

Not unlike the role PEPFAR has played in fighting AIDS across the globe, the End Modern Slavery Initiative Act was designed to leverage limited foreign aid dollars and galvanize tremendous support and investment from the public sector, philanthropic organizations, and the private sector to focus resources responsibly where the crime is most prevalent. With broad support from countless individuals, organizations, and faith-based institutions, authorizing legislation for the End Modern Slavery Initiative was included in the National Defense Authorization Act of 2017 (NDAA), which overwhelmingly passed the Senate on December 8, 2016 and was signed into law by the president soon after.
Passage led to the creation of the Global Fund to End Modern Slavery (GFEMS), a non-profit, grant-making foundation in the District of Columbia that is funding programs and projects outside of the United States that will
 
Contribute to the freeing and sustainable recovery of victims of modern slavery, prevent individuals from being enslaved, and enforce laws to punish individual and corporate perpetrators of modern slavery;
Set clear, defined goals and outcomes that can be empirically measured; and
Seek to achieve a measurable 50 percent reduction of modern slavery in the areas the foundation operates.
 

The foundation seeks to raise $1.5 billion over the next decade, more than 80 percent of which will come through matching funds from the private sector and foreign governments. To date, more than $105 million has been contributed to the fund, including:
 
$46 million from the U.S. State Department (September 14, 2017)
$25 million from the United Kingdom (September 19, 2017)
$25 million from a private donor
$11.6 million from Norway (December 18, 2018)
 

Progress of the fund's success will be tracked against baseline data with a goal of achieving a 50 percent reduction in modern slavery in the areas where the fund is working. Projects that fail to meet goals will be suspended or terminated. The foundation is required to comply with the Government Accountability Office's mandate to conduct financial audits and program evaluations.
During his time in the Senate, Portman has authored six federal anti-trafficking laws designed to better serve victims and help law enforcement end this crime  including most recently the Stop Enabling Sex Traffickers Act (SESTA). The law, which President Trump signed on April 11, 2018, is helping to curb the explosion of online sex trafficking and give victims the tools they need to hold accountable websites that knowingly facilitate the trafficking of women and children online.
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https://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=2109DD93-364B-4502-AA5E-5393E3C20EEC,Rubio Applauds Administration Decision To Reverse DHS Guidance On The NFIP During Government Shutdown,2018-12-28,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,FL,Marco Rubio,R000595,www.rubio.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Press Releases 
						
							
						
					
					
					
						 
							
							
								
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		Miami, FL  Today,U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) released a statement applauding the decision by the administration to reverse new guidance issued by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) that prevents the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) from writing or renewing National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) policies during the current government shutdown. Yesterday, Rubio urged the Office of Budget Management (OMB) to reverse this decision.I am glad to see commonsense prevail in Washington. When Congress passed legislation last week to keep the NFIP operating until June 2019, our intent was clear. I thank the administration for reversing DHS actions and ensuring Floridians can continue to obtain and maintain flood insurance. I look forward to working with my colleagues to secure a long-term reauthorization of the program and much-needed reforms.Timeline of Rubio's Efforts on the National Flood Insurance Program

December 27, 2018  Rubio Urges OMB To Reverse DHS Guidance On The NFIP During Government Shutdown
December 21, 2018  Rubio Welcomes Passage of Bill To Extend National Flood Insurance Program
November 28, 2018Rubio Comments on NFIP Reauthorization
November 15, 2018 Rubio Introduces Bill to Reauthorize National Flood Insurance Program for Six Months
July 31, 2018 Rubio Comments on Senate Reauthorization of National Flood Insurance Program
July 25, 2018 Rubio on National Flood Insurance Program: We Should Not Hold Floridians Hostage
July 18, 2018 Rubio Video Statement: We need to extend NFIP now or it will be a disaster for Florida
July 18, 2018 Rubio in Tampa Bay Times: Congress Needs Long-Term Solution for Flood Insurance Program
June 21, 2018 Rubio Secures Funding for FEMA Pre-disaster Mitigation and Flood Hazard Mapping and Risk Analysis Programs in Appropriations Bill
June 13, 2017 Rubio, Menendez, Colleagues Lead Bipartisan Flood Insurance Reform Bill
June 13, 2017 Rubio in Wall Street Journal: A bipartisan plan for Flood Insurance
February 28, 2017 Rubio Meets with Florida Legislative Leaders to Discuss Federal-State Issues, Including The National Flood Insurance Program",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=808C44EE-A98D-4A86-AEE7-4EDA81F930B6,"Rubio to Release Report, Hold Press Conference on 2018 Accomplishments",2018-12-28,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,FL,Marco Rubio,R000595,www.rubio.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Press Releases 
						
							
						
					
					
					
						 
							
							
								
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		Miami, FL Today, U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) will release a report called Fighting for Florida detailing his legislative accomplishments during the 115th Congress. Rubio's remarks at Florida International University are open to the press and will be live streamed here at 10:00 am EST.The 15-page report, accompanied by a four and a half minute video, highlights Rubio's legislative accomplishments and provides a look at his behind the scenes efforts to influence policy in Washington. Last year, a non-partisan analysis ranked Rubio 4th out of 100 Senators for the number of bills he wrote that became law. That same analysis ranked Rubio 5th overall in Senate leadership and 6th in bipartisan support for his bills. Overall, more than two dozen bills Rubio introduced or served as the lead Republican sponsor became law over the past two years.One of my highest priorities continues to be ensuring that my staff and I are available to help Floridians with whatever federal assistance they may need,Rubio said. We have also accomplished some incredible policy victories over the last two years for Florida and for our nation.Landmark Laws: A few of the dozens of new laws are truly landmark accomplishments for Florida and the nation. In 2017, Rubio's Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Actbecame law. That same year, he successfully expanded the size of the Child Tax Credit from $1,000 to $2,000 per child, and for the first time made the first $1,400 refundable against an individual's payroll taxes. This year, Rubio secured congressional authorization and funding to construct the Everglades Agricultural Area (EAA) Storage Reservoir to reduce Lake Okeechobee discharges to coastal communities.Leading during Crisis: From harmful algal blooms and devastating hurricanes to drug overdoses and unthinkable shootings, Florida experienced significant challenges over the past two years. In the aftermath of the 2018 Valentine's Day massacre of 17 people in Parkland, Florida, Rubio helped push through theStudent, Teachers and Officers Preventing (STOP) School Violence Actand theFix NICS Act. He also introduced the bipartisanExtreme Risk Protection Order and Violence Prevention Actto encourage other states to adopt red flags similar to Florida's new law. Rubio has also secured funding to research and correct the harmful algal blooms that disrupt Florida. He has also fought for Americans in Florida and Puerto Rico in the aftermath of hurricanes Irma, Marie and Michael.Putting Florida First: Rubio's visit to sober homes neighborhoods in Broward County, Florida and meetings with local officials led to the introduction of theEliminating Kickbacks in Recovery Act and Sober Home Fraud Detection Actas part of the landmark opioid bill signed into law this year. He passed theSpurring Business in Communities Actand theSeniors Tax Simplification Act, secured funding for military construction and fought for residents in public housing.Safe and Strong America: Leveraging his position on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, and his role as chair of the Congressional-Executive Commission on China (CECC), Rubio highlighted human rights abuses around the world, including in China, Nicaragua and Venezuela. HisDefending Elections from Threats by Establishing Redlines(DETER) Actprovided the framework for the administration's executive order on foreign election interference. Similarly, Rubio'sCuban Military Transparency Actwas basis for executive orders to prevent financial compensation to the Cuban military and entities associated with the regime's military.DownloadsFighting for Florida: Legislative Accomplishments Report, 2017  2018",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.wicker.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/weekly-report?ContentRecord_id=CC7140F4-12EB-4D1B-B0FB-F86F31DDFED3,Wicker Hopeful About Reforms in FIRST STEP Act,2018-12-28,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,MS,Roger Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,,,legacy,"A few weeks ago, I joined President Trump in Gulfport for a roundtable discussion on prison reform. Then, on December 18, I voted for the federal legislation discussed at that meeting, the FIRST STEP Act. This important bill does as its name implies, taking a constructive step to fix our criminal justice system while strengthening law and order over the long term.
It was encouraging to see Democrats and Republicans rally around the legislation, which earned the support of the Trump Administration and a wide range of outside groups. One of the bill's primary objectives is to reverse the problem of recidivism  when offenders are rearrested after their release. Studies have shown that rearrests happen for nearly half of federal prisoners.
Preventing Future Crime
The FIRST STEP Act seeks to break this cycle of incarceration by encouraging prisoners to participate in programs that have been shown to reduce recidivism. These programs are potentially life-changing for participants. They also offer benefits to society as a whole, preventing future crime and prison overcrowding  not to mention the associated financial burdens that crime and incarceration put on taxpayers. The programs can also provide educational opportunities and vocational training, readying inmates to find a job when they leave prison.
The job environment that prisoners face after their release matters to their successful transition back into society. Today's thriving economy has created more jobs and an attractive market for job seekers. Job programs in prison could help lower the high unemployment that currently exists among working-age men with a criminal history. In the end, employers would have more skilled applicants to fill available positions and our economy's productivity would remain strong.
Sensible Adjustments to Sentencing Rules
Another important reform in the bill is the slight modifications it makes to current sentencing rules for nonviolent prisoners. Moreover, it empowers judges to decide appropriate sentences rather than forcing them to apply mandatory ones. As the son of a circuit judge, I appreciate the bill's attention to the critical role that judges play in determining a fair punishment. Another provision provides inmates the opportunity to participate in programs to demonstrate good behavior and potentially earn earlier release.
In addition, the FIRST STEP Act addresses the controversial three strike rule that was implemented during the Clinton Administration. Although intended to deter crime, it often left those with only minor drug-related offenses facing lifetime prison sentences. Minority communities, in particular, have been disproportionately affected. The FIRST STEP Act reduces these life sentences for nonviolent drug offenders to 25 years.
A federal law to reform the criminal justice system will not transform every prison in the United States, since many more prisoners are incarcerated in our state prisons than in our federal ones. However, the FIRST STEP Act is a starting point for constructive dialogue across party lines that recognizes the power of redemption and policies that can help encourage it. Above all else, these discussions should prioritize the safety and well-being of our communities and our nation.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://burgess.house.gov/blog/?postid=398894,"Burgess Urges Senate to Fund Border Security, End Shutdown",2018-12-27,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,TX,Michael Burgess,B001248,burgess.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.  Congressman Michael C. Burgess, M.D. (R-TX), Chairman of the Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health, released the following statement on the current government shutdown. 

The defense of our nation must be Congress' first priority. Period. I urge the Senate to join the House and pass H.R. 695, the Further Continuing Appropriations Act, 2019, which includes President Trump's requested funding to build an effective wall on our southern border and protect the American people. Any vote against this funding is not only a vote for this unnecessary government shutdown, but also a direct vote against secure borders and national security. 
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http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=401632,Protecting Taxpayers and Encouraging Charitable Giving: the Charitable Giving Tax Deduction Act,2018-12-27,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,NJ,Christopher Smith,S000522,chrissmith.house.gov,,,legacy,"Amid fresh reports that charitable giving could drop precipitously for 2018 because of the changes to the tax law, Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) is calling attention to a bipartisan remedy he proposed this year and will reintroduce at the beginning of the 116th Congress. 
Smith's Charitable Giving Tax Deduction Act would allow taxpayers to write off charitable donations to organizations that volunteer and assist those in need, whether or not they choose to itemize on their taxes.  

Charitable organizationsincluding homeless shelters, soup kitchens, after-school programs, churches and synagoguesdepend upon the generosity of many American taxpayers to continue serving those most in need. Yet with last year's changes to the tax law many charities are facing the unintended consequences of the new policywhat could be a steep drop in donations. Just yesterday, USA Today reported concerns of organizations that say charitable giving in this year alone could decline by as much as $20 billion, Smith said.  

My legislation would help remedy this problem, allowing all those who wish to donate to charity to do so whether or not they itemize, thus protecting taxpayers while encouraging continued support for groups assisting the vulnerable among us, Smith said. I plan to reintroduce this legislation in the coming Congress and look forward to its bipartisan support and swift passage.  

Studies including the American Enterprise Institute's Charitable Giving and the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act report predicted that charitable giving would significantly decline in 2018, due to an increase in the standard deduction in the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act which would result in many taxpayers no longer choosing to itemize on their taxes, which would include being able to write off charitable donations.  

In May of 2018, Rep. Smith introduced HR 5771, the bipartisan Charitable Giving Tax Deduction Actwhich he plans to reintroduce in the 116th Congress. The legislation would make charitable tax deductions universal and above-the-line, providing maximum relief for those looking to donate to tax-exempt charitable organizations. The amount of charitable contributions would not be capped under the legislation.  

Smith's 2018 bill has cosponsors from both parties as well as support from a consortium of charitable and faith-based organizations and philanthropic networks.  

The AEI report estimated that provisions like those in Smith's bill, HR 5771which allowed taxpayers who took the standard deduction to also be able to deduct their charitable contributionscould boost charitable giving by $21.5 billion, offsetting the estimated charitable giving shortfall by several billion dollars.  

Charitable organizations that supported Smith's legislation included Agudath Israel of America, the Orthodox Union, the New Jersey Catholic Conference, United Way Worldwide, the Animal Welfare Institute, the Council on Foundations, the National Association of Charitable Gift Planners, the Faith &amp; Giving Coalition, the American Littoral Society, the New Jersey YMCA State Alliance, the Alliance for Charitable Reform, Independent Sector, and the Humane Society Legislative Fund.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://abraham.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/lanny-keller-beware-conventional-wisdom-louisiana-governors-race,Rep. Ralph Abraham holds fundraiser for gubernatorial campaign tonight to beef up his war chest,2018-12-27,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,LA,Ralph Abraham,A000374,abraham.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman and gubernatorial candidate Ralph Abraham holds a fundraiser in Monroe tonight to beef up his campaign war chest, as he attempts to catch up to the at least five million dollars in campaign funds reported by the Edwards re-election campaign earlier this year.
ULM Poli Sci Professor Joshua Stockley says he'll need a lot of cash on hand, because this race will be remarkably expensive.
Former U.S Senator Vitter raised about 11-million in an unsuccessful campaign against Governor Edwards, so he's going to need at least ten million dollars.
Baton Rouge businessman and fellow Republican Eddie Rispone has also pledge five million of his own dollars for his own campaign.
Abraham has served for four years in Congress, likely making quite a few deep pocketed contacts. Stockley says there's a few industries that tend to come in handy for Louisiana Republicans looking to raise campaign funds.
To read the full story, click here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://joyce.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=25&itemid=377,Joyce Issues Statement on Partial Government Shutdown,2018-12-27,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,OH,Dave Joyce,J000295,joyce.house.gov,,,legacy,"How to use: Insert &lt;span class=""EXACT_VALUE_LABEL_AS_ENTERED_BELOW""&gt;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/span&gt; where you'd like the value to be populated.  Non-breaking space within span tags - &amp;nbsp; - is required for WYSIWYG.     Label (no spaces or special characters)   Value   Comments (optional)    repName  John Smith      helpWithFedAgencyAddress  Haverhill District Office 1234 S. Courthouse Haverhill, CA 35602      district  21st District of California      academyUSCitizenDate  July 1, 2012      academyAgeDate  July 1, 2012      academyApplicationDueDate  October 20, 2012      repStateABBR  AZ      repDistrict  1      repState  Arizona      repDistrictText  1st      repPhoto        SponsoredBills  Sponsored Bills      CoSponsoredBills  Co-Sponsored Bills",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://susanwbrooks.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/brooks-bipartisan-environmental-protection-bill-signed-into-law,Brooks bipartisan environmental protection bill signed into law,2018-12-27,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,IN,Susan Brooks,B001284,susanwbrooks.house.gov,,,legacy,"President Donald Trump has signed into law H.R. 1733 to direct the Secretary of Energy to review and update a report on the energy and environmental benefits of the re-refining of used lubricating oil, a bipartisan bill introduced by Congresswoman Susan W. Brooks (R-Ind.-05), which passed the House on Dec. 12 and the Senate on Dec. 20.
Our country is already re-refining lubricated oil through a process that rids the oil of harmful contaminants and restores the oil to its original effectiveness, said Brooks. I am proud the president signed this bipartisan bill into law because having an up-to-date report of the energy and environmental benefits of re-refined lubricating oil will help Congress work with the private sector in order to ensure we are responsibly and safely helping to reduce waste and benefit American consumers while protecting the environment.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://williams.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/nations-oldest-wwii-veteran-dies-in-austin-at-112,Nation's Oldest WWII Veteran Dies In Austin At 112,2018-12-27,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,TX,Roger Williams,W000816,williams.house.gov,,,legacy,"AUSTIN, TEXAS Richard Arvin Overton, the nation's oldest living war veteran  and the oldest man in the U.S.  died Thursday in Austin at the age of 112 after a bout with pneumonia.
Born near Bastrop, Texas, on May 11, 1906, Overton served a three-year stint in the U.S. Army during World War II. He fought in the 1887th Engineer Aviation Battalion during WWII, serving as a corporal in the South Pacific. Overton joined his all-black military unit in 1942, and became a skilled sharpshooter.
After the war, Overton built a home in East Austin where he a neighborhood fixture usually out on his front porch puffing on a cigar while holding court as admirers spontaneously dropped by to meet him. ""His front porch is his everything,"" VolmaOverton, his septuagenarian cousin who helped care for him, once told the Washington Post. ""It's his throne.
In interviews with myriad media outlets, Overton spoke of his fondness for cigars in which he indulged daily  sometimes up to 12 smokes a day, he would note unabashedly. In interviews, he often credited his love of stogies, along with a splash of whiskey in his morning coffee and a steady diet of fried catfish and ice cream as secrets to his longevity. He also expressed a fondness for Dr. Pepper.
He outlived two wives and close family members, and received countless honors and accolades along the way  including a 2013 visit to the White House where he met President Barack Obama as a relative youngster of 107. He met Obama at the White House for breakfast ahead of a Veterans Day ceremony at the National Cemetery where he was honored.
""His service on the battlefield was not always matched by the respect that he deserved at home,"" Obama said at the time. ""But this veteran held his head high.""
Overton earlier this year came close to losing his home in East Austin  once an enclave largely inhabited by a black and Latino working class that's been swept over by gentrification for the better part of a decade or so as an influx of younger residents are lured to trendy restaurants and bars and plentiful luxury apartments where single-family homes once stood. Gentrification-fueled spikes in property taxes threatened to render Overton unable to afford staying in his home, and he faced the likelihood of spending his final years in a nursing home.
But in a sign of the depth of affection residents of Austin  and admirers far beyond the city limits  had for Overton, a GoFundMe campaign designed to keep him at his home ultimately would raise more than $450,000 for 24-hour-a-day home care.
From near and far, people expressed their condolences late Thursday as news of Overton's death spread. Gov. Greg Abbott called the late veteran ""...an American icon and a Texas legend"" in a prepared statement, adding his and his wife's voice in expressing sympathies.
""With his quick wit and kind spirit, he touched the lives of so many, and I am deeply honored to have known him. Richard Overton made us proud to be Texans and proud to be Americans. We can never repay Richard Overton for his service to our nation and for his lasting impact on the Lone Star State. On behalf of Texas, Cecilia and I offer our thoughts and prayers to his family and friends.""
U.S. Rep. Roger Williams, representative for Texas's 25th congressional district, also issued a statement in reaction to Overton's passing: ""I join the Austin community and the entire country in mourning the loss of a great man, and our nation's oldest veteran, Mr. Richard Overton. Throughout my time in Congress, I have had the honor of getting to know Mr. Overton very well  sitting on his porch and listening to him tell stories are memories I will never forget. I am thankful for his service to our country, and I am eternally grateful to have had him in my life as a friend and role model. I will miss him dearly and will continue to pray for his family during this difficult time.""
State Rep. Lloyd Doggett of the 35 District of Texas, added his voice via Twitter: ""Saluting Richard Overton for his service, spirit, and longevity. One of the last of our World War II vets has passed away at age 112. Pleased that he could share so many honors late in life, including, here, my getting the healing garden at our veterans clinic named in his honor.""
The U.S. Army paid tribute via social media as well: ""Today we mourn not just a hero, but a legend. The oldest American #WWII Veteran, Richard Overton, died at the age of 112. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Overton family. He was a hero to us all. May you rest in peace Sir.""
In its own dispatch announcing the death, the venerable Stars and Stripes newspaper put Overton's long life in historical perspective: ""Richard Overton, the oldest-living veteran, was born on May 11, 1906, the same year as the first wireless radio broadcast, and a year before Oklahoma became a state. He died Thursday at the age of 112.""
In 2015, Austin filmakers Rocky Conly and Matt Cooper made a short film about Overton. In the opening moments of the film, the then-109-year-old Overton noted with palpable drive he had just had his driver's license renewed.
""I still walk, I still talk and I still drive,"" he said. ""Yeah, I've had a lot of people say God kept you here to help others. But I don't know why he kept me here. I can't tell you.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://williams.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/oldest-living-wwii-veteran-dies-in-texas,Oldest living WWII veteran dies in Texas,2018-12-27,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,TX,Roger Williams,W000816,williams.house.gov,,,legacy,"AUSTIN, Texas (AP) - A family member says the nation's oldest World War II veteran who was also believed to be oldest living man in the U.S. has died in Texas.
Shirley Overton, whose husband was Richard's cousin, says the Army veteran died Thursday evening at a rehab facility in Austin.
Overton had been recently hospitalized with pneumonia.
Overton was in his 30s when he volunteered for the Army and was at Pearl Harbor just after the Japanese attack in 1941.
He once said that one secret to his long life was smoking cigars and drinking whiskey, which he often was found doing on the porch of his Austin home.
In 2013, he was honored by former President Barack Obama at a Veterans Day ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery.
U.S. Rep. Roger Williams, R-Texas, issued a statement expressing sympathy to Overton's family.
Throughout my time in Congress, I have had the honor of getting to know Mr. Overton very well - sitting on his porch and listening to him tell stories are memories I will never forget. I am thankful for his service to our country, and I am eternally grateful to have had him in my life as a friend and role model. I will miss him dearly and will continue to pray for his family during this difficult time.
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott called Overton ""an American icon and a Texas legend.""
""With his quick wit and kind spirit he touched the lives of so many, and I am deeply honored to have known him. Richard Overton made us proud to be Texans and proud to be Americans. We can never repay Richard Overton for his service to our nation and for his lasting impact on the Lone Star State,"" he said.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://williams.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/reactions-to-the-passing-of-richard-overton-recall-a-texas-legend,Reactions to the passing of Richard Overton recall a 'Texas legend',2018-12-27,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,TX,Roger Williams,W000816,williams.house.gov,,,legacy,"AUSTIN (KXAN)  Shortly after the news of World War II veteran Richard Overton's death, condolences and memories came pouring in from around Texas and the nation.
Overton's cousin, VolmaOverton Jr., said the family will miss the funny 112-year-old and that his memory will keep them going.
""We are truly blessed for everyone who has shown support and prayers, everyone who was encouraging to him and our family,"" Volma Overton Jr. said. ""We are so thankful.""
People gathered at a mural on 12th and Chicon Streets that depicts Overton. They sang songs in his honor and did two his favorite things: drank whiskey and smoked cigars.
Gov. Greg Abbott called Richard Overton an ""American icon and a Texas legend,"" in a statement.
""With his quick wit and kind spirit he touched the lives of so many, and I am deeply honored to have known him,"" Abbott wrote. ""Richard Overton made us proud to be Texans and proud to be Americans. We can never repay Richard Overton for his service to our nation and for his lasting impact on the Lone Star State.""
People, including Rep. LloydDoggett, shared photos of the veteran and remembered his ""service, spirit and longevity.""
Rep. Roger Williams said he had the honor of knowing Overton well and will miss him dearly.
""Sitting on his porch and listening to him tell stories are memories I will never forget,"" Williams wrote. ""I am thankful for his service to our country, and I am eternally grateful to have had him in my life as a friend and role model.""
Rep. Will Hurdshared a quote of Overton's that said ""You don't know when you get here. You don't know when you go. It's in God's hands. Hurd added that ""Our words will never be enough to fully show our gratitude for your selfless service. Fair winds and following seas, my friend.""
A Twitter account called EverythingTXshared a picture of the born-and-raised Texansmoking his signature cigar that he claimed helped him live a long life.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://williams.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-williams-statement-on-the-passing-of-richard-overton,Rep. Williams Statement on the Passing of Richard Overton,2018-12-27,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,TX,Roger Williams,W000816,williams.house.gov,williams,https://williams.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"AUSTIN, TEXAS – Congressman Roger Williams (R – Austin) released the following statement on the passing of the nation's oldest World War II veteran and Austin-resident, Richard Overton:

""I join the Austin community and the entire country in mourning the loss of a great man, and our nation's oldest veteran, Mr. Richard Overton,"" said Rep. Williams. ""Throughout my time in Congress, I have had the honor of getting to know Mr. Overton very well - sitting on his porch and listening to him tell stories are memories I will never forget. I am thankful for his service to our country, and I am eternally grateful to have had him in my life as a friend and role model. I will miss him dearly and will continue to pray for his family during this difficult time.""

# # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T23:11:43Z
https://woodall.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/senate-fails-pass-government-funding-border-security-measure,"Senate Fails to Pass Government Funding, Border Security Measure",2018-12-27,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,GA,Rob Woodall,W000810,woodall.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC  The House has approved of a funding measure for the remaining federal agencies and departments not previously funded during the annual appropriation process, while also allocating more than $5 billion in funding for border security and barrier construction. U.S. Representative Rob Woodall voted in favor of the measure. The Senate has been unsuccessful in passing the measure, resulting in a partial federal government shutdown as of December 22.
This year, Congress  along with President Trump's Administration  made great strides in completing the appropriations process in a timely manner, and as a result, approximately 75% of funding has already been granted, but there is more work to do, said Woodall. The measure approved by the House addresses those shortfalls as well as provides the crucial resources requested by the White House to secure our southern border. The safety and security of the American people isn't a partisan issue, and it shouldn't be handled as such. I regret the decision of Senate Democrats, but am committed to finding a solution that maintains government operation while also investing the necessary resources in our southern border enhancements.
Congressman Woodall represents the Seventh Congressional District of Georgia , which includes significant portions of Forsyth and Gwinnett counties, and currently serves as Chairman of the Rules Subcommittee on Legislative and Budget Process, as well as serving on the Transportation &amp; Infrastructure Committee, and Budget Committee. 
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-statement-passing-john-c-culver,Grassley Statement on the Passing of John C. Culver,2018-12-27,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,IA,Charles Grassley,G000386,www.grassley.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON  U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley of Iowa today released the following statement regarding the passing of former U.S. Sen. John C. Culver of Iowa. My wife Barbara and I were sorry to hear about Senator Culver's passing. He served his country in the Marine Corps and continued his devotion to public service throughout his life, representing Iowa in both chambers of Congress for 16 years Senator Culver was a tough competitor. He was proud of his record and defended it, not sacrificing his stands for political expediency, and that deserves to be recognized. Personally, I'll never forget his grace and good wishes after the election of 1980 and when we would cross paths over time afterward. My thoughts are with his friends and family as I join all Iowans in mourning the loss of a devoted public servant. -30-",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-statement-after-minnesota-dnr-issues-permit-for-permanent-flood-protection-in-red-river-valley,Hoeven Statement After Minnesota DNR Issues Permit for Permanent Flood Protection in Red River Valley,2018-12-27,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.27.18
			 Hoeven Statement After Minnesota DNR Issues Permit for Permanent Flood Protection in Red River Valley 
			
				
	
	
	
	
	 
	
	
			
		
	
	
	
		
		
		
		
		
		
		
		
		
		
		
		
			
		
        
				 Hoeven: The Red River Valley Needs Permanent Flood Protection
			
			 WASHINGTON  Senator John Hoeven released the following statement today after the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) issued a permit for comprehensive flood protection in the Red River Valley. The permit advances Route B, which incorporates the changes recommended by the joint task force convened by Governors Doug Burgum and Mark Dayton.
Residents and businesses in the Fargo-Moorhead region need the certainty and security that comes with permanent flood protection,said Hoeven. Today's permit from the Minnesota DNR is an important step that will enable this vital project to advance and is necessary to address the injunction on the project. Getting this permit is necessary as we work to secure additional federal funding for this infrastructure project. 
As a member of the Senate Energy and Water Development Appropriations Committee, Hoeven is working to maintain strong support for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' construction account and secure project funding in the coming years. This follows the increased funding Hoeven secured in Fiscal Year (FY) 2019 for the Corps' construction efforts, which helped ensure the Corps included $35 million for construction of flood protection in the Fargo-Moorhead region in its FY2019 work plan.
Hoeven secured provisions in this year's WRDA legislation and the FY2019 Energy and Water funding bill, both of which were signed into law this fall, to move forward with flood protection projects in North Dakota and throughout the country.
WATER RESOURCES DEVELOPMENT ACT
 
Resolves easement issue to enable Route B: Hoeven includedhis provision to resolve easements on land purchased with Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) funding. The senator's provision grants the authority needed to implement Route B, the changes recommended by the joint task force convened by Governors Doug Burgum and Mark Dayton.
 
FISCAL YEAR 2019 ENERGY AND WATER FUNDING BILL
 
Increases the Corps' construction accountby $150 million to ensure priorities like flood protection in the Red River Valley continue to receive funding.
Implements the Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) Programto provide states and local governments with low-cost, flexible funding sources when building water infrastructure.

The legislation directs the Corps to complete a detailed plan for implementing WIFIA and provides up to $6 million tosupport WIFIA program implementation. This aligns with Hoeven's legislationto extend the WIFIA program.

Ensures fair treatment of P3projectsand others that use alternative financing methods during the Corps' cost-benefit analysis, including flood protection in the Fargo-Moorhead region.

The bill requires the Corps to develop a policy on how it will evaluate P3s and incorporate them into its budget.
Hoeven also helped advance a provision in the Senate-passed Financial Services and General Government funding bill ensuring the Corps can fund P3s.

 
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https://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=3F68D8C5-269B-4B2D-AB4A-57B36A95778B,Rubio Urges OMB To Reverse DHS Guidance On The NFIP During Government Shutdown,2018-12-27,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,FL,Marco Rubio,R000595,www.rubio.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Press Releases 
						
							
						
					
					
					
						 
							
							
								
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		Miami, FL  Today,U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) released a statement following a decision by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to issue new guidance that prevents the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) from writing or renewing National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) policies during the current government shutdown.Last week, I was proud to work with my colleagues to secure a six month extension of the NFIP to ensure that Floridians were able to maintain access to a program so vital to our state. However, I have been informed that DHS has now issued new guidance that prevents FEMA from writing or renewing policies during the current government shutdown. I strongly disagree with this guidance as it incorrectly interprets congressional intent demonstrated last week with Congress passing legislation to keep the program operating until June 2019.I am asking OMB to reverse DHS actions and ensure Floridians can continue to obtain and maintain flood insurance.Timeline of Rubio's Efforts on the National Flood Insurance Program

December 21, 2018  Rubio Welcomes Passage of Bill To Extend National Flood Insurance Program
November 28, 2018Rubio Comments on NFIP Reauthorization
November 15, 2018 Rubio Introduces Bill to Reauthorize National Flood Insurance Program for Six Months
July 31, 2018 Rubio Comments on Senate Reauthorization of National Flood Insurance Program
July 25, 2018 Rubio on National Flood Insurance Program: We Should Not Hold Floridians Hostage
July 18, 2018 Rubio Video Statement: We need to extend NFIP now or it will be a disaster for Florida
July 18, 2018 Rubio in Tampa Bay Times: Congress Needs Long-Term Solution for Flood Insurance Program
June 21, 2018 Rubio Secures Funding for FEMA Pre-disaster Mitigation and Flood Hazard Mapping and Risk Analysis Programs in Appropriations Bill
June 13, 2017 Rubio, Menendez, Colleagues Lead Bipartisan Flood Insurance Reform Bill
June 13, 2017 Rubio in Wall Street Journal: A bipartisan plan for Flood Insurance
February 28, 2017 Rubio Meets with Florida Legislative Leaders to Discuss Federal-State Issues, Including The National Flood Insurance Program",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://dougcollins.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/collins-statement-improving-border-safety,Collins Statement on Improving Border Safety,2018-12-26,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,GA,Doug Collins,C001093,dougcollins.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTONRep. Doug Collins (R-Ga.) released the following statementconcerning safety at America's southern border.
Every parent's heart shudders when we learn of the deaths of seven- and eight-year-old children. This month's tragedies require us to search out what contributed to this loss of innocent life and how we can prioritize safety at the southern border. The dangers presented by the hostile terrain surrounding much of our border with Mexico and the coyotes and traffickers who victimize men, women, and children in those areas are well documented. Despite this, America's own legal loopholes put adults in a difficult situation by incentivizing them to risk their own safety and the safety of children on these dangerous treks.
Customs and Border Protection's officers and agents should and do deliver medical and humanitarian care to those in their custody, and they should be commended for doing this faithfully, even as each day stretches their resources further.
It remains Congress' responsibility to ensure that our laws support the CBP in their work and promote immigration processes that are fair, efficient and compassionate. People seeking to enter the United States should have every reason to believe that their best hope of entry is the safe, legal route. Unfortunately, several of our laws currently reward choices that endanger people, and children in particular. This reality is confusing, disturbing and unacceptable. The new year brings lawmakers the chance to improve our statutes so that they better reflect the value of all human life instead of incentivizing adults to put young lives at riskI hope we come together to take that opportunity.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://gianforte.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/dasinger-receives-honor-gianforte,Dasinger receives honor from Gianforte,2018-12-26,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,MT,Greg Gianforte,G000584,gianforte.house.gov,,,legacy,"U.S. Rep. Greg Gianforte, R-Mont., recognized Katie Dasinger of Sidney with his Spirit of Montana commendation for her leadership, commitment to promoting community service, and efforts to develop young professionals.
Dasinger is founder and president of Sidney Young Professionals, a group focused on community service as well as personal and professional development. The organization regularly organizes entrepreneurship panels, roundtable discussions, public forums, training programs, and tours of local businesses.
Gianforte's Spirit of Montana is a weekly recognition of Montanans for their accomplishments, dedication, or service. Gianforte highlights the recipient in the U.S. House of Representatives and personally contacts the honorees. Gianforte encourages anyone to nominate Montanans for the Spirit of Montana award by contacting his office at 202-225-3211 or by e-mail at https://gianforte.house.gov/contact/email.
(Click here to read the full story)",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://gianforte.house.gov/media-center/newsletters/update-new-farm-bill-law,UPDATE: New Farm Bill is law,2018-12-26,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,MT,Greg Gianforte,G000584,gianforte.house.gov,,,legacy,"1419 Longworth HOB

Washington, DC 20515

  Phone: (202) 225-3211  
	Fax: (202) 225-5687",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://radewagen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/aumua-amata-visited-us-troops-middle-east-christmas-day,Aumua Amata Visited U.S. Troops in Middle East on Christmas Day,2018-12-26,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,AS,Amata Radewagen,R000600,radewagen.house.gov,,,legacy,"Middle EastCongresswoman Aumua Amata was humbled and delighted to spend Christmas Day with U.S. troops in the Middle East. She was thrilled to greet a large number of troops from American Samoa, sing LotaNuu together, and then the Members of Congress had the opportunity to help serve a Christmas meal to hundreds of U.S. service men and women. What an honor to see our troops on Christmas Day and their spirit as they serve our nation in the Middle East, said Aumua Amata. It's so special to say thank you' in person to the men and women of our Armed Forces, and let them know that many people back home are thinking of them in this season. I will be sending more details of this Christmas visit, but for now, the U.S. forces in the Middle East send Christmas and holiday greetings to all!
Congresswoman Amata with troops at Camp Arifjan in Kuwait

Congresswoman Amata had the opportunity to seea large group of Samoan constituents at Camp Arifjan in Kuwait, including some who just completed their service in Afghanistan or Iraq. She spoke with them, and was happy to remind them that many people at home are thinking of them, before they sang LotaNuu together. Congresswoman Amata is part of a Congressional Delegation (CODEL) led by Rep. Lee Zeldin (R-NY), that has become a Christmas tradition. In addition to Rep. Amata and Rep. Zeldin, the bipartisan CODEL includes Rep. Filemon Vela (D-TX) and Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA). The CODEL had a packed Christmas Day schedule in the Middle East visiting troops and seeing firsthand some of their activities in the service of the country, before flying on to their next stop at another military installation to see more troops.

###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://zeldin.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-zeldin-visits-troops-middle-east-4th-straight-christmas,Rep. Zeldin Visits Troops in Middle East for 4th Straight Christmas,2018-12-26,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,NY,Lee Zeldin,Z000017,zeldin.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Zeldin delivered chocolate chip cookies from Tate's Bake Shop; based in New York's First Congressional District, to deployed constituents from Orient, Riverhead and elsewhere.
MIDDLE EAST - Congressman Lee Zeldin (R, NY-1) spent Christmas again in the Middle East visiting U.S. troops deployed in the CENTCOM Area of Operations and participating in several high level diplomatic and military meetings in addition to several other troop engagements, including serving lunch and dinner to the troops at three separate bases. Every Christmas since coming to Congress, Congressman Zeldin has led a Congressional Delegation (CODEL) of Members of Congress to the Middle East. This year, he is joined by Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R, PA-1), Rep. Filemon Vela (D, TX-34) and Rep. Aumua Amata Coleman Radewagen (R-AS).
Spending Christmas away from their families isn't easy, and for many of our servicemen and women this isn't the first holiday season away from home, said Congressman Zeldin. It is an honor to be able to personally thank them for their service, let them know how much they are appreciated and how many Americans are thinking of them, praying for them and immensely grateful for their service.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=401636,"<span class=""kicker"">NJ.com article on 3 Smith bills signed into law</span>'These N.J. lawmakers saw their bills become law before Congress adjourned'",2018-12-25,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,NJ,Christopher Smith,S000522,chrissmith.house.gov,,,legacy,"By Johathan Salant of the Star Ledger/NJ.comIn the closing days of the 115th Congress, as lawmakers prepared to go home for Christmas, they passed dozens of bills as final deals were cut and language was tweaked to ensure passage.
Even as he negotiated with congressional leaders over legislation to keep parts of the federal government open past Friday, PresidentDonald Trumpaffixed pen to paper and signed several measures into law.
Whiletalks broke downand the parts of the governmentclosed for the third timeunder Trump's watch, Congress and the president did see other measures become law.
Dozens of lawmakers who did not seek re-election or were defeated in November skipped those votes, but not the four New Jersey Republicans who willno longer be in officecome January.
Outgoing Reps. Frank LoBiondo, R-2nd Dist., Tom MacArthur, R-3rd Dist., Leonard Lance, R-7th Dist., and Rodney Frelinghuysen, R-11th Dist,, were there for every vote.

Here are some bills sponsored by N.J. lawmakers that became law in the closing days of the congressional session.






  
Fighting human trafficking



Rep. Chris Smith, who in January will be the only Republican among New Jersey's 12 House members, ended his tenure in the majority by seeing three bills signed into law by Trump this month.
The first, the Frederick Douglass Trafficking Victims Prevention and Protection Reauthorization Act, wouldrenew and strengthen effortsto stop human trafficking. The bill earmarked $430 million over four years for programs such as teaching airline employees and federal officials how to detect trafficking and coordinating international efforts to address the problem.
The bill was named for Frederick Douglass, the former slave who became an abolitionist. Douglass' great-great-great grandson, Kenneth Morris Jr., was at the press conference when Smith announced the legislation. There also was money set aside in the trafficking legislation to fundInternational Megan's Law, which President Barack Obama signed in February 2016.  

The law requires the Departments of Homeland Security and Justice to inform foreign governmentswhen registered sex offenders are visitingtheir countries,andto receive information when sex offenders travel to the U.S.
Smith sponsored that bill, too. It was named for Megan Kanka,7, of Hamilton in Smith's district. She wassexually assaulted and killedin 1994 by a convicted sex offender who lived across the street.The original Megan's Law passed by the New Jersey legislature required the residents to be told when a sex offender moved into their neighborhood.
Extending federal flood insurance

Unable to make changes to the expiringfederal flood insurance program, Congress simply voted to extend the current program until May 31. The president signed the bill on Friday.
U.S. Sen. Robert Menendez, D-N.J., was the lead Democratic sponsor of the extension,
Before passing a simple extension, the House defeated legislation sponsored by MacArthur to allow private companies who already write federal policies to also offer their own insurance to customers. While that policy had been put in place by the Trump administration, congressional Democrats didn't want to write it into law. The vote was 148 in favor and 226 against.
Reps. Frank Pallone Jr., D-6th Dist., and Bill Pascrell Jr., D-9th Dist., called the bill ""a last-minute attempt by Republicans to give an early Christmas gift to private insurance companies, including those who have taken advantage of our constituents.""
As was the case with the Republican farm bill that imposednew rules on food stamp recipientsandthe GOP tax billthat curbed the federal deduction for state and local taxes, MacArthur was the only one of the state's 12 House members to vote yes on his flood insurance measure.
He then moved that the House take up the simple extension, which passed, 315-48, with all 12 New Jersey representatives voting yes. Funding the 9/11 memorials  

The U.S. House cleared legislation providing federal funding to maintain the memorials erected at the sites of the worst terrorist attack in U.S. history. The bill awaits Trump's signature.  

MacArthur's9/11 Memorial Actwouldauthorizeup to $25 million a year in federal grants for the memorialsat Ground Zero in New York, the Pentagon, and the Pennsylvania site whereUnited Airlines Flight 93 was forced down by its passengers.
""This law will providestable funding for the security and operation of this vital memorial so that future generations may safely visit the site and never forgetthe 3,000 Americans we lost,"" MacArthur said. ""It is our solemn duty to honor the fallen and protect the living.""
It had originally passed the House by voice vote shortly after the the 17th anniversaryof 9/11.Senators made some minor changes and passed its version without opposition.
Then the House gave final approval by 371-3 on Friday,the 30th anniversaryof another terrorist attack, the bombing of Pan Am Flight 103.
Researching sickle cell disease
  
Trump signed legislation that would allow the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to provide funding to state and local agencies to collect information on sickle cell disease and develop ways to better screen for and treat it.  

The Sickle Cell Disease and Other Heritable Blood Disorders Research, Surveillance, Prevention, and Treatment Act was sponsored by U.S. Sen. Cory Booker, D-N.J., and Tim Scott, R-S.C.
Sickle cell disease consists of rare red blood cell disorders that can cause pain, infections, organ damage and stroke. An estimated 100,000 Americans are afflicted with the disease, 90 percent of them African-American.
""Research and treatment efforts for sickle cell disease lags behind that of other chronic illnesses, even though it is the most common inherited blood disorder in our country,"" Booker said.
Researching traumatic brain injury

The measure was sponsored by Pascrell, chair and co-founder of theCongressional Brain Injury Task Force.
""This critical funding will help federal agencies, states, and local providers continue to conduct breakthrough research, while providing support to service members on and off the battlefield, athletes on the ball field, and patients and families across the country who are living with brain injuries,"" Pascrell said.


Tacking AIDS worldwide
  
Congress approved a five year $30 billion extension of a federally funded program designed to fight AIDS worldwide was signed into law by Trump.  



Smith sponsored the extension of the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief.
""Each year we are closer and closer to achieving an AIDS-free world and an AIDS-free generation,"" Smith said.
The program has saved an estimated 16 million lives, Smith said.  







Paying tribute
  
Congresspaid tributeto one of its own by naming its bill that funds and makes changes toCoast Guard operations the Frank LoBiondo Coast Guard Authorization Act  







The measure authorized fundingfor Coast Guard operations and construction for this year and next. Trump signed it into law Dec. 4.





Protecting victims of genocide





Smith had a third bill signed into law, theIraq and Syria Genocide Relief and Accountability Act,which he introducedin response to mass killings of minorities, including Christians and Yazidis,by the Islamic State terrorist group, also known as ISIS.
The new law allows the federal government to fund religious and other groups that provide humanitarian assistance to survivors, identify threats of violence against members of minority groups, and support investigations of war crimes against them.
""When genocide or other atrocity crimes are perpetrated, the United States should direct some of its humanitarian, stabilization, and recovery aid to enable these groups to survive -- especially when they are minorities whose existence as a people is at-risk,"" Smith said.

  
This story in its original form was posted Dec. 25, 2018 and can be read online at:https://www.nj.com/expo/news/erry-2018/12/49fec061901454/these-nj-lawmakers-saw-their-b.html",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://lamborn.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2532,Merry Christmas from Congressman Lamborn and Family,2018-12-25,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,CO,Doug Lamborn,L000564,lamborn.house.gov,,,legacy,"Merry Christmas from Congressman Lamborn and Family 
   
    
       
      
  
    
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      Colorado Springs, CO - Congressman Doug Lamborn (CO-05) issued the following statement: 
""The Christmas season is a time of year that's particularly filled with joy, hope, and love. As we enjoy Christmas Day, I want to take a moment to wish you a happy and safe holiday. I'm grateful for the honor to represent Colorado's Fifth Congressional District. I'm blessed to enjoy Christmas with my family, and I hope are as well."" 
""For unto us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace."" Isaiah 9:6
    
  
  
  
    
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https://www.alexander.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=2E35F537-A1A1-4900-A804-1A8F0004AB12,"Alexander: Shutdown Is a Failure of Negotiators, Both Democrat and Republican",2018-12-25,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,TN,Lamar Alexander,A000360,www.alexander.senate.gov,,,legacy,"A government shutdown should be as off limits in budget negotiations as chemical weapons are inwarfare.- Lamar Alexander
NASHVILLE, Tenn., December 25, 2018  United States Senator Lamar Alexander (R-Tenn.) today released the following statement:
I want to make sure Tennesseans know, as I have said from itsbeginning, that I believe there is no excuse whatsoever for this partial government shutdown.When the government shut down under President Obama, I said that I was elected to make the government work for taxpayers, not to shut it down.The same is true under President Trump.This shutdown wastes taxpayer dollars, adds uncertainty to the economy and hurts small businesses around our national parks. A government shutdown should be as off limits inbudget negotiations as chemical weapons are inwarfare.This shutdown is a failure by negotiators, both Democrat and Republican,and will produce a success for no one.
On December 22, as the federal government was being partially shut down, Sen. Alexander said:
Senator Lamar Alexander Statement on Partial Government Shutdown
WASHINGTON,December 22, 2018 United States Senator Lamar Alexander (R-Tenn.) today released the following statement on the partial government shutdown:
There is no excuse for even a short-term, partial government shutdown. Shutting down the government should be as off limits to budget negotiations as chemical weapons are to warfare. I was not for a government shutdown under President Obama. I'm not for a government shutdown under President Trump.
I was not elected to shut down the government, I was elected to make it work for taxpayers.This is a complete failure of negotiations and a success for no one.
In 2015, when the government was shut down under President Obama, Sen. Alexander said:
Shutting the government down as a way of expressing opposition to Planned Parenthood or any other contentious issue is not the right thing to do. The U.S. Congress is in the business of dealing with contentious issues. If we shut down the government every time a contentious issue came up, the government would never be open. We were not elected to shut down the government. We were elected to make the government work for the benefit of taxpayers who sent us here.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.ernst.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/in-the-news?ContentRecord_id=9759FB17-E646-49B6-AB0A-3B655C2A4EE4,"Radio Iowa: Ernst touts Pentagon requirement to track, treat soldiers brain injuries",2018-12-25,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,IA,Joni Ernst,E000295,www.ernst.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Republican Senator Joni Ernst, a combat veteran, says one of her top legislative accomplishments this past year was a collaboration with one of the Senate's most liberal Democrats.
That measure in the National Defense Authorization Act to raise awareness and to treat traumatic brain injury, that was done with my colleague Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts, Ernst says.
The legislation directs the military to take steps to track, treat and prevent brain injuries among soldiers. The Pentagon is now required to include information about recognizing brain injuries in its regular training sessions for soldiers.
That's one that was very important to me and we were able to see that through to fruition, Ernst says.
Ernst has collaborated with other Democratic senators on military matters. In 2015, for example, Ernst and California Democrat Barbara Boxer sponsored legislation signed by President Obama that allowed female pilots from World War II to be buried at Arlington National Cemetery. In 2019, Ernst will for the first time be serving in a politically-divided legislative branch.
It can be painted as very difficult and in some circumstances it will be difficult having a divided congress with Democrats taking majority in the House of Representatives, Ernst says, but, at the same time, there is still opportunity and a lot of the work that I do here in the United States Senate is done in a bipartisan manner.
In August, Ernst and a Democratic senator from Delaware cosponsored legislation designed to help military veterans get college credit for their military training.
Click here to read the full story from Radio Iowa.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://zeldin.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-zeldin-sends-christmas-greetings-while-visiting-us-troops-middle,Rep. Zeldin Sends Christmas Greetings While Visiting US Troops in the Middle East,2018-12-25,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,NY,Lee Zeldin,Z000017,zeldin.house.gov,,,legacy,"Photos from Congressman Zeldin's previous CODELs he led to Iraq and Afghanistan.
MIDDLE EAST - Congressman Lee Zeldin (R, NY-1) is spending Christmas today in the Middle East visiting U.S. troops deployed in the CENTCOM Area of Operations. Every Christmas since coming to Congress, Congressman Zeldin has led a Congressional Delegation (CODEL) of Members of Congress to the Middle East. This year, he is joined by Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R, PA-1), Rep. Filemon Vela (D, TX-34) and Rep. Aumua Amata Coleman Radewagen (R-AS).
Merry Christmas from the Middle East! It's been an honor to visit our troops deployed here every Christmas since coming to Congress; a tradition continuing again today, said Congressman Zeldin. I'm so grateful of these men and women who defend our freedoms and sacrifice so much. From my family to yours, have a blessed and safe holiday.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/building-safer-communities,Building Safer Communities,2018-12-24,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,OK,Tom Cole,C001053,cole.house.gov,,,legacy,"While negotiations to fully fund the government unfortunately remain underway in the Senate, I am pleased to report that lawmakers in both chambers of Congress did recently complete work on bipartisan legislation to improve the federal justice system. Already signed into law by the president and focused on building safer communities, the FIRST STEP Act ushers in common sense solutions to discourage repeat criminal offenders and ensure fair sentencing.
One of the key reforms included in the comprehensive law is aimed at identifying which federal prisoners might be capable and deserving of a second chance. This is accomplished through a new system to assess the risk and needs of each federal prisoner and help set them on the fairest and most appropriate rehabilitation path forward. To be sure, this does not mean that dangerous and violent criminals are able to walk free or serve less time for their crimes. Rather, the FIRST STEP Act seeks to keep prisoners from ending up behind bars again for the same crimes after returning to society. Further, it seeks to equip and encourage those who want to change while they serve their time.
With the goal of reducing recidivism, the legislation reauthorizes several programs from the Second Chance Act of 2007. This includes educational and job training programs with proven results. The legislation also encourages prisoner participation in some faith-based programs.
Along with programming to help prisoners from falling back on past behavior, the FIRST STEP Act makes some small changes to current sentencing laws. For example, the legislation addresses outdated sentences now considered too harsh under the Fair Sentencing Act. Again, this does not mean that sentences are reduced for dangerous, violent and high-risk criminals or repeat offenders and career criminals.
While the FIRST STEP Act specifically deals with the federal correctional system, the changes will undoubtedly make a difference in the total population of incarcerated personsthat is, prisoners serving time in either a local, state or federal facility. In Oklahoma, the rate of incarceration is particularly troubling. According to the latest report from the U.S. Bureau of Justice Statistics, Oklahoma's incarceration rate in 2016 was the second highest in the nation.
Without question, Congress and the Administration delivered a historic legislative achievement with the FIRST STEP Act. It rightly focuses on the population of low-level, non-violent federal prisoners already on track to eventually be released and paves a better way for them to become productive members of society. Indeed, this fair yet compassionate legislation affirms that lives can be redeemed. Along with those across the political spectrum and various coalitions that even include members of law enforcement, I am proud to have supported this important legislation.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://davidyoung.house.gov/media-center/weeklyreport/115th-congress,The 115th Congress,2018-12-24,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,IA,David Young,Y000066,davidyoung.house.gov,,,legacy,"The 115thCongress has been productive and I spent it working to deliver solutions to the issues facing Iowans. I've worked to make sure our countryand her people aresafe, Iowans have economic security and the ability to plan for the future, to protect our environment,and to ensure the liberties and freedoms laid out in our Constitution are protected.
As a largely agriculture state, Iowanstake pride in their ability to feed and fuel the country.This Congress, I worked with my colleagues and the president to secure year-round E15sales so we bolster our rural economy, promote cleaner air, and reduce our dependence on foreign oil. In the recently passed Farm Bill, my bill, the WATER Act, was included in the final package signed into law. The WATER Act helps improve conservation practices by streamlining access to grant funding and establishing a publicly accessible database which shows how conservation practices work on different soils and topographies.
Iowans are also keeping more of their hard-earned money because of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. You know how to spend your money better than the federal governmentand I've heard from Iowans across the Third District who are using their bigger paychecks to pay for groceries, a vacation, student loans, or saving for the future. It's your money  you should decide how it's used.
Our economy continues to grow and we see the lowest unemployment rates in decades. There are more job openings than there are people looking for jobs. I've heard from business owners who say they have to turn down work because they don't have enough employees to get it all done.
We have started rebuilding our military after years of neglect. Our women and men in uniform need the resources to train, fight, win, and return home safely  and the 115thCongress started to deliver those resources.
We've invested in border security so we know who and what is coming into our country. A secure border will help stop criminals, drugs, illegal weapons, and human trafficking.
Another of my bills, the Rural Call Quality Act, was signed into law this Congress. This will help put an end to the dropped, looped, and poor quality calls many Iowans living in rural areas are experiencing.
In a bipartisan fashion, we passed the most comprehensive legislation to combat the opioid crisis in a generation. The opioid epidemic has impactedfamiliesfrom every walk of life and doesn'tdiscriminate. Our bipartisan work will combat the crisis by increasing treatment and prevention efforts, seeking alternative pain treatments, ensuring law enforcement can combat illegal drug flows in our communities, and stopping the flow of heroin, fentanyl, and other addictive drugs into our country.
These are just a few of the accomplishments of the 115th Congress and I was honored to carry your voices to Washington to seek solutions to the challenges Iowans are facing.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/breaking-fitzpatrick-spend-christmas-day-us-troops-middle-east,Breaking: Fitzpatrick to spend Christmas Day with U.S. Troops in the Middle-East,2018-12-24,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,PA,Brian Fitzpatrick,F000466,fitzpatrick.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DCCongressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-08) will spend Christmas Day visiting with U.S. Troops deployed to the Middle-East, who's missions include military operations in Syria and Iraq.
Fitzpatrick will be in various undisclosed locations in the CENTCOM AOR in the Middle-East, serving Christmas dinner to troops, receiving classified briefings from military generals regarding ongoing military operations, and spending time with Pennsylvania-based troops serving in all branches of the U.S. Military who are deployed to various Middle-East locations.
Congressman Fitzpatrick has made a commitment to spend every Christmas Day with our troops deployed oversees. Last year, Fitzpatrick spent Christmas Day with U.S. Troops in Afghanistan. In 2007-2008, while serving as an FBI Special Agent, Fitzpatrick was embedded with U.S. Special Forces in Iraq as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom.
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https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/senate-passes-fitzpatrick-cyberstalking-bill,Senate Passes Fitzpatrick Cyberstalking Bill,2018-12-24,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,PA,Brian Fitzpatrick,F000466,fitzpatrick.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DCCongressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-08) released a statement after the Senate passed on Saturday his Combat Online Predators Act [H.R. 4203], with an amendment:
We have no higher responsibility than to protect our kids. I'm pleased that the Senate has advanced the Combat Online Predators Act. We must do everything we can to forcefully respond to egregious instances of stalking and cyberstalking. This legislation, inspired by Erin and Madison Zezzo, ensures that, not only are we increasing penalties for cyberstalking crimes against minors, but we are also requiring federal law enforcement officials to evaluate and update practices to combat this dangerous harassment. I urge House leadership to immediately bring the Senate-passed bill up for a vote before the end of the Congress.
The Combat Online Predators Act provides enhanced criminal penalties for stalkers under Title 18 Section 2261 by up to five years if the victim is a minor. Furthermore, the legislation calls for the Attorney General and Department of Justice to produce an evaluation of Federal, State, and local efforts to enforce laws relating to stalking and identify and describe elements of these enforcement efforts that constitute best practices.
In April, the House overwhelming passed the bipartisan Combat Online Predators Act [H.R. 4203]. The Senate amended the bill to ensure that the enhanced penalties only apply to more serious cases of stalking.
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https://hill.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2454,"Hills Bill to Enhance Arkansass Flatside Wilderness Passes Senate, Heads to Presidents Desk",2018-12-24,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,AR,French Hill,H001072,hill.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON  Congressman French Hill (AR-02) released the following statement after his legislation to enhance Arkansas's wilderness area, the Flatside Wilderness Enhancement Act, passed the Senate and heads to the president's desk for his signature:  

Congressman Hill said: I'm pleased that my bill to enhance one of Arkansas's most unspoiled landscapes, Flatside Wilderness, has been sent to the president's desk. Arkansans and visitors, young and old, should enjoy more of Flatside Wilderness and all of its natural and wild qualities. Perry County in particular offers a very special and rare opportunity for people to support our wildlife and natural resources, while also boosting the state's economy. This addition is named for a tireless conservationist and advocate for Arkansas wilderness and my good friend, former Arkansas Congressman Ed Bethune. I appreciate Representative Bruce Westerman and Senator John Boozman for their efforts in helping me get my legislation to the finish line.  

Senator John Boozman said: This is welcome news for Arkansas outdoor enthusiasts. Protecting this land will support the beauty of the Natural State for future generations. Nobody has been a more fierce advocate for our state's natural resources than Ed Bethune so this is also a fitting tribute to his work in Congress. I appreciate my Senate colleagues for recognizing the importance of safeguarding this landscape.  

Background  

The Flatside Wilderness Enhancement Act, H.R. 5636, adds to the wilderness area approximately 640 acres of existing National Forest lands next to Forked Mountain which has been depicted as Recommended Wilderness Additions since 2005. These areas have been managed as wilderness land since that time. It will also name the 640-acre wilderness addition, Bethune Woods, in honor of former member of Congress from Arkansas, Ed Bethune, author of the House version of the 1984 Arkansas Wilderness Act.  

Additionally, Congressman Hill has proposed a U.S. Forest Service study of additional existing U.S. forest lands located in Perry County and adjacent to the Flatside Wilderness to determine their suitability for inclusion in the National Wilderness Preservation System.  

Clickhereto view the map of Flatside Wilderness.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns-and-op-eds/president-trump-signs-criminal-justice-reform-law,COLUMN: President Trump Signs Criminal Justice Reform into Law,2018-12-24,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,,,legacy,"Last week, Congress acted, and President Trump signed into law major criminal justice reform, the First Step Act. As the national crime rate declines, this legislation makes changes to reduce recidivism among federal prisoners, increase public safety, and save taxpayer dollars.
Earlier this year, President Trump said, I'm thrilled to announce my support for this bipartisan bill that will make our communities safer and give former inmates a second chance at life after they have served their time.And we're all better off when former inmates can receive and reenter society as law-abiding, productive citizens.And thanks to our booming economy, they now have a chance at more opportunities than they've ever had before. The President continued: the bill includes reasonable sentencing reforms while keeping dangerous and violent criminals off our streets.
President Trump pointed out the example of Alice Marie Johnson, a 63-year old grandmother who was sentenced to life in prison without eligibility for parole for a first-time, non-violent drug offense. Johnson has accepted responsibility for her crime and has already served 21 years in federal prison. She admitted that what she did was wrong and served adequate time in prison, even becoming an ordained minister and a mentor to other prisoners. The President served the cause of justice by commuting Johnson's sentence, saying, While this administration will always be very tough on crime, it believes that those who have paid their debt to society and worked hard to better themselves while in prison deserve a second chance. The First Step Act will treat non-violent offenses like Johnson's more fairly.
The bill gives judges more say in sentencing through targeted reforms including reducing the three-strike penalty for non-violent drug offenses from life imprisonment to 25 years. It creates a risk and needs assessment system that will ensure each prisoner's risk of re-offending is assessed while excluding violent and high risk criminals, including fentanyl traffickers, from using new time credits. It will encourage prisoners to participate in evidence-based programs to reduce recidivism.
The First Step Act ensures dangerous, violent criminals serve their time behind bars, preserving the maximum potential sentences for violent and career criminals. It also ensures courts cannot reduce mandatory minimum sentences of violent and serious criminals, and it provides courts the ability to lengthen sentences for deserving criminals.
The bipartisan legislation was supported by many diverse groups and was backed by the International Association of Chiefs of Police, the Fraternal Order of Police, Prison Fellowship, and the Faith and Freedom Coalition.
President Trump has said that Americans from across the political spectrum can unite around prison reform legislation that will reduce crime while giving our fellow citizens a chance at redemption.
The First Step Act is a breakthrough that will give Americans like Alice Marie Johnson a second chance.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://peteking.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/brentwood-post-office-renamed-in-honor-of-army-specialist-jose-ruiz,Brentwood Post Office Renamed In Honor of Army Specialist Jose Ruiz,2018-12-24,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,NY,Peter King,K000210,peteking.house.gov,,,legacy,"President Trump recently signed legislation which Congressman Pete King introduced renaming the Brentwood Post Office in honor of Army Specialist Jose Ruiz of Brentwood.
SPC Jose Ruiz was killed serving in Iraq on August 15, 2005.
Congressman King introduced this resolution to honor SPC Ruiz's memory &amp; sacrifice.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://susanwbrooks.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/signed-into-law-brooks-bipartisan-environmental-protection-bill,SIGNED INTO LAW: Brooks Bipartisan Environmental Protection Bill,2018-12-24,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,IN,Susan Brooks,B001284,susanwbrooks.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC  The President signed into law H.R. 1733, to direct the Secretary of Energy to review and update a report on the energy and environmental benefits of the re-refining of used lubricating oil, a bipartisan bill introduced by Congresswoman Susan W. Brooks (R-IN05), which passed by the House on December 12, 2017, andSenate on December 20, 2018.
Our country is already re-refining lubricated oil through a process that rids the oil of harmful contaminants and restores the oil to its original effectiveness, said Brooks. I am proud the President signed this bipartisan bill into law because having an up-to-date report of the energy and environmental benefits of re-refined lubricating oil will help Congress work with the private sector in order to ensure we are responsibly and safely helping to reduce waste and benefit American consumers while protecting the environment. 
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https://williams.house.gov/media-center/newsletters/come-and-read-it-report-66,Come and Read It Report,2018-12-24,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,TX,Roger Williams,W000816,williams.house.gov,,,legacy,"Dear Texans,
Merry Christmas and happy holidays to you and yours! With all the hustle and bustle during this time of year, it isoften easy to forgetwhat tomorrow is really all about - the birth of our Lord and savior, Jesus Christ.I hope this serves as a reminder to be kind to one another during the Christmas season and remember that there are many people who are unable to spend this time with loved ones. Iencourage you takea moment and think about the brave men and women in uniform, and our first responders,who cannot be with their families. They are spending today and tomorrow protecting this great nation so that all of you can enjoy time at home. Please join me in thanking them for their service, and praying for their safety, wherever they may be around the globe. 
Securing our Borders 
Last week, the Democrats once again chose to put open borders and illegal immigrants over the safety of American citizens. I joined many of my conservative colleagues in the House and proudly voted in favor of $5.7 billion in additional funding to defend and secure our southern border. I encourage our Senate counterparts to follow our lead and do the same. We must do everything in our power to protect thisnation, and we should not rest until it is properly done. I will continue to support President Trump and I will oppose any funding bill that does not fully fund his border request.
High School Football State Champions 
Congratulations to the Grandview High School Zebras, who took home the Class 3A Division I State Championship last week! They defeated the Malakoff Tigers 35-21 and all of us in Texas-25 couldn't be more proud. Great job boys!
I have included some articles and releases you may find interesting located on the right side of this newsletter. It is an honor and privilege to represent the people of Texas' 25th Congressional District and as always, please reach out to me with any issues and concerns that are important to you.
In God we trust, 
Roger Williams
Member of Congress",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://woodall.house.gov/media-center/e-newsletter-archive/washington-watch-122418,Washington Watch - 12/24/18,2018-12-24,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,GA,Rob Woodall,W000810,woodall.house.gov,,,legacy,"CONGRESS AND WHITE HOUSE STILL WORKING ON A PARTIAL GOVERNMENT FUNDING RESOLUTION
As I'm sure you all know by now, last week was quite interesting in Washington, D.C., and as a member of the House Rules Committee, I had a ringside seat to all that was happening. Months ago, the House and Senate began diligently working on the FY19 appropriations bills. And by the beginning of the fiscal year on October 1, 2018, we had passed into law 5 of the 12 annual spending bills, which account for roughly 75% of our total discretionary spending for the year. Since the end of September, we've been trying to find a compromise between the House, Senate, and White House on the remaining 25%, which includes money for border security, as most of you have probably heard. On Wednesday, the Senate passed a Continuing Resolution (CR) to fund those parts of the government still awaiting their yearly appropriation. In what is called a clean CR, the Senate simply kicked the can down the road to February 8, 2019, making no changes to any current funding streams and leaving necessary funding for border security off the table.
The House and the White House were unwilling to simply go-along to get-along with the fecklessness of the Senate, and I was proud to support an amended CR in the House on Thursday that provided roughly $5 billion for border security, and maybe more importantly, nearly $8 billionin disaster aid for those affected by this year's hurricanes, floods, wildfires, and volcanoes, including our farmers in middle and south Georgia who were ravaged by Hurricane Michael. That disaster aid goes to crop and livestock producers, emergency highway repairs, flood control and storm damage reduction projects, and wildfire suppression, to name a few. This is essential money for Georgia, which saw $2.5 billion in losses from Hurricane Michael, and what's more,the bill provideda block grant optionfor aid that would have given Georgia's Agriculture Commissioner the power and flexibilityto use federal dollars in the most efficient way possible for our state's farmers.
Unfortunately, the Senate once again took the easy road and refused to provide even $1 more for border security. Instead, the Senate has decided to recess until Thursday and begin working with the White House on a new measure that we all hope can get 60 votes in the Senate, be acceptable to the House, and be signed into law by the President.What this means for the American people, as you've probably heard on the news already,is that part of the government's operations will be temporarily closed. Of course, not everyone stops working. The Defense Department, Health and Human Services, Education, the VA, and the Department of Energy have already been funded, so their employees will continue working without interruption. And anyone in any other agency who is directly responsible for ensuring public health and safety will continue working without interruption. Yes, some federal employees will be furloughed for a short-time, but if you are one of those employees or know one of those individuals, please know that they -- and every other federal employee -- will certainly be paid for each hour of the shutdown that they worked or were supposed to be working once a new funding bill is passed.
Let me be perfectly clear; I did not want a shutdown, I was not advocating for a shutdown, but I also could not support abdicating our duty to fund the government and allow the reins of government to be handed over to Nancy Pelosi and Chuck Schumer without acting on President Trump's top legislative priority. I look forward to continuing the discussion about how we can appropriately fund the government and provide for our nation's border security in the days ahead, and I look forward to your counsel in this effort.

BIPARTISAN CRIMINAL JUSTICE REFORMBECOMES LAW 
One of the great legacies of our outgoing Governor Nathan Deal will be his successful reforming of our criminal justice system in Georgia. For years, our state has led a nationwide effort to better distinguish between dangerous criminals who must be removed from society and misguided men and women who have made mistakes, who have been trapped in circumstance, who may have lost hope, but who are willing to serve their time and prove that they deserve a second chance in life. I'm proud that Congress and President Trump have taken the lessons we've learned in Georgia to heart and passed a landmark criminal justice reform law that will apply those lessons throughout our federal criminal justice system. To be clear, this new law does not let criminals off the hook. For serious offenses, stiff penalties remain enshrined in law. But for nonviolent and low-level offenders, the First Step Act offers a lifeline for our sons and daughters, mothers and fathers, and neighbors in our community to right their wrongs and become contributing members of society. You can read a summary of this bill, which drew broad bipartisan support from faith leaders, law enforcement, governors, and attorneys general, by clicking here.

HOUSE ADVANCES PUBLIC HEALTH BILLS TO THE PRESIDENT'S DESK
Last week, both the House and Senate were busy pushing bipartisan bills through Congress that will surely work to make a difference in the lives of hundreds of thousands of Americans. While bills in myriad issue areas made their way from Capitol Hill to 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue for the President's signature, I want to take this opportunity to highlight some of the public health bills that I hope President Trump will swiftly sign into law.
Most notably, Congress passed S. 2076, the BOLD Infrastructure Act, which supports critical public health programs for Alzheimer's disease and related dementias and seeks to ensure that states and communities have the proper tools and public health infrastructure in place to adequately meet the demands that Alzheimer's disease will surely place on them in due time. In fact, it is estimated that 190,000 Georgians will be diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease in 2025  an increase of 50,000 individuals over a 7-year period. That's not to mention the 385,000 individuals in our state who have been identified by Georgia Memory Net as having self-reported cognitive impairment  80% of which have not yet been evaluated or treated. While I find that our great state of Georgia has already made significant investments to meet the demands of these terrible diseases, as Georgia is already home to five Memory Access Centers, I certainly understand that there is always an opportunity for us to do more and to do better when it comes to delivering solutions to individuals and families grappling with Alzheimer's  whether that entails bolstering early detection and assessment methods, improving care and education among providers who treat patients with Alzheimer's and related dementias, or working to accurately collect data from communities so that researchers can learn more about these diseases.
Moreover, I heard from many constituents over the course of the past year about how they believe the BOLD Act will work to improve the lives of their families and loved ones, and I am certainly grateful to each person who shared their support and very personal story with me. I truly believe the BOLD Act made it across the finish line here in Congress due to the many constituent advocates across the county who made it their mission, and I was proud to partner with them in making passage a reality.
In addition to the BOLD Act, the House passed the following public health bills that look to improve our communities:
 Senate Amendment to H.R. 1222, the Congenital Heart Futures Reauthorization Act of 2017, sponsored by Representative Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) reauthorizes congenital heart disease research as well as enhances surveillance activities at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC); and
	Senate Amendment to H.R. 6615, the Traumatic Brain Injury Program Reauthorization Act of 2018, sponsored by Representative Bill Pascrell (D-NJ) reauthorizes the CDC's Traumatic Brain Injury initiatives and would allow researchers to study how many people have sustained a brain injury, in turn, providing us with better insight to this problem that both young and old Americans face too often.
 CLICK HERE to read moreabout what the Alzheimer's Association had to say about the landmark BOLD Infrastructure Act. 

LOCAL MANUFACTURER LEADING THE WAY ON ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY 
In past newsletters, I've shared with you the great things happening in our local small business and manufacturing community, and Metcam is no stranger to that success! As of last week, though, they now have another accolade to their name by winning a Manufacturers of Distinction and Leadership Award in the environmental sustainability category for Forsyth County. In April, they'll have the opportunity to compete for the statewide award, and I feel good about their chances! You may recall that last year Metcam, Inc. was named Georgia's Small Manufacturer of the Year by Governor Deal.
I've been fortunate to visit their operation before and visit with their team. I can tell you that they take their commitment not only to their customers, but to the community in which they reside, very seriously. It doesn't surprise me at all that they continue to find success and lead on issues like environmental sustainability. It makes me so proud to see this kind of initiative here at home precisely because it was their own vision, action, and continued commitment that has produced these results. It wasn't a Washington mandate that was the driving force behind their business model, but rather their individual and team character. When I tell the story of the Seventh District to colleagues on Capitol Hill, it's one rife with examples like Metcam and so many others. That reality makes our collective voice so much stronger as we work to craft policies that partner with men and women like this to be successful. Thank you all for what you do, and please don't hesitate to contact me if I can be of assistance to you or your business.

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO YOU AND YOUR FAMILY! 
I know we all say it  but it's hard to believe Christmas is here once again already! While it may be hard to believe, it is exciting! Just a day away, families are making final preparations and maybe even making a last-minute gift run or two! There's no shortage of things to do before trips and visits commence  not to mention a new year to anticipate  but I hope you all have an opportunity to relax and enjoy this special holiday with your loved ones as well.
As we share time, meals, and presents with family and friends, I hope we'll remember those who are missing loved ones during the holiday as well. Whether military service members, first-responders, those who have lost someone, or whatever the circumstances may be, Christmas and the holiday season can also be a challenging time. Please join me in remembering those experiencing difficulty in your thoughts and prayers, and by reaching out to anyone you may encounter who needs a kind word or warm invitation.
Irrespective of how you celebrate, I wish you all a Merry Christmas! It is a time of hope and new beginnings, and I can't think of a more fitting message to precede the celebration of the New Year.
Sincerely,    
	Rob Woodall  
	Member of Congress",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.boozman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2018/12/adg-u-s-sen-john-boozman-seeks-answers-in-saudi-case,ADG: Bill expanding Arkansas wilderness on way to president,2018-12-24,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,AR,John Boozman,B001236,www.boozman.senate.gov,,,legacy,"In the News 
			
				
					
				
			
			
			
			
				



	
		

















	
	
	
	
	
	
	
		
		Legislation expanding Arkansas' Flatside Wilderness is headed to the White House, thanks to successful last-minute lobbying by U.S. Sen. John Boozman.
Full story (subscription required):https://www.nwaonline.com/news/2018/dec/24/wilderness-bill-on-way-to-president-201-1/",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/video-capito-wishes-west-virginians-happy-holidays-2018,VIDEO: Capito Wishes West Virginians Happy Holidays,2018-12-24,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,WV,Shelley Capito,C001047,www.capito.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.24.18
			 VIDEO: Capito Wishes West Virginians Happy Holidays 
			
			CHARLESTON, W.Va.  U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) today released a video message ahead of the Christmas and New Year holidays.

Click here or the image above to watch the video.Click here to download the video.
Full video transcript included below:
Hi everyone!
I dont know about you, but the holidays are always a reflective time for me.
A time to look back on the past year and count the extraordinary blessings in my life.
I am fortunate to have a supportive family around me, to have my health, to represent West Virginia in the United States Senate, to live in the greatest country in the world, and to be part of a state and a community that is as special and as full of promise as ours.
This holiday season, I wish you all the blessings of a peaceful and joyous Christmas.
Charlie and I, along with our entire familyincluding my grandchildrenhope that you and your loved ones have a very happy holiday season.
And best wishes for a healthy and prosperous 2019!
# # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cruz.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=4238,"Sen. Cruz: We Celebrate the Birth of Jesus Christ, Our Promised Savior",2018-12-24,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,TX,Ted Cruz,C001098,www.cruz.senate.gov,,,legacy,"HOUSTON, Texas  U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) issued the following statement in advance of Christmas Day:
In this season of hope, we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. The promised Savior, born in Bethlehem, came that we may know Him and his everlasting love and redemption.
Evidence of Christ's love can be found all across the Lone Star State. Just this week, high school students and others volunteered their time with Lubbock's Meals on Wheels to distribute more than 400 boxes of supplies for seniors. In Laredo, United Middle School students collected presents for children living at Casa De Misericordia, a shelter for survivors of domestic violence. And nearly 1,800 children in Georgetown received gifts from the Williamson County Sheriff's Office. All around us, there are stories of Texans sharing the joy of Christmas with their neighbors.
We also remember our servicemen and women who are spending the holiday season far away from home at sea or deployed in a foreign land. We pray for their safe return. And we remember their families, who sacrifice enormously for our great country.
Heidi and I wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas and a blessed New Year. May God continue to bless the great state of Texas and the United States of America.
Sen. Cruz also released a video wishing America's armed forces and their families a Merry Christmas, and thanking them for their service. The video is being played overseas on the American Forces Network. Watch the full video here. A transcript is below.
Hi, I want to take a moment to say thank you' for your dedicated service to our great country.
Y'all represent the finest qualities of the United States: service to others and sacrifice of self. The enormous sacrifices you and your family make each day in order to secure our freedoms don't go unnoticed. America owes you, your families, and the generations of great Americans who have answered the call to defend our country a debt that we can never fully repay.
As we prepare for a season of celebration, we are thinking of our servicemen and women who are spending the holidays far away from home, at sea, or deployed in a foreign land. We are praying for your safe return. Heidi and I want to wish every member of the armed forces and their families a very Merry Christmas, and a blessed New Year. May God bless America, and may God bless each and every one of you.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cruz.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=4239,"Sen. Cruz: 'Esta Navidad Celebramos El Nacimiento De Jesucristo, Nuestro Salvador Prometido'",2018-12-24,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,TX,Ted Cruz,C001098,www.cruz.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.  Hoy el Senador Ted Cruz (R-Texas) emiti la siguiente declaracin antes del Da de Navidad:
En esta temporada de esperanza, celebramos el nacimiento de Jesucristo. El Salvador prometido, nacido en Beln, vino para que podamos conocer su amor eterno y redencin.
La evidencia del amor de Cristo se puede encontrar en todo el estado de Texas. Justo esta semana, los estudiantes de secundaria y otros ofrecieron su tiempo en Lubbock distribuyendo ms de 400 cajas de suministros para personas mayores con la organizacion (can you add the o with the dash to organization) Meals on Wheels. En Laredo, los estudiantes de la escuela United Middle School recolectaron regalos para nios que viven en la Casa De Misericordia, un casa refugio para sobrevivientes de violencia domstica. Y casi 1,800 nios en Georgetown recibieron regalos de la Oficina del Sheriff del condado de Williamson. A nuestro alrededor, hay historias de Tejanos que comparten la alegra de Navidad con sus vecinos.
Tambin recordamos a nuestros soldados que estn pasando la temporada lejos de casa desplegados en una tierra extranjera. Oramos por su regreso seguro y recordamos a sus familias, que sacrifican enormemente por nuestro gran pas.
Heidi y yo le deseamos a usted y a su familia una Feliz Navidad y un Prospero Ao Nuevo. Que Dios contine bendiciendo el gran estado de Texas y los Estados Unidos de Amrica.
El Sen. Cruz tambin public un video en el cual le desea a las fuerzas armadas de los Estados Unidos y a sus familias una Feliz Navidad, y le da las gracias por su servicio. El video se esta transmitiendo en el American Forces Network. Usted puede ver el video completo aqu. La transcripcin est debajo.
Hola, quiero tomar un momento para decir gracias' por su servicio dedicado a nuestro gran pas.
Ustedes representan las mejores cualidades de los Estados Unidos: el servicio a los dems y el sacrificio de s mismo. Los enormes sacrificios que usted y su familia hacen cada da, a fin de asegurar nuestras libertades no pasan por desapercibidos. Amrica le debe a usted, sus familias y las generaciones de grandes Americanos que han contestado el llamada de defender nuestro pas. Es una deuda que nunca podremos totalmente pagar.
Mientras nos preparamos para una temporada de celebracin, estamos pensando en nuestros soldados que estn pasando la temporada lejos de casa, desplegadas en una tierra extranjera. Estamos orando por su regreso seguro. Heidi y yo queremos desearle a cada miembro de las fuerzas armadas y sus familias una muy Feliz Navidad y un Prospero Ao Nuevo. Que Dios bendiga a los Estados Unidos, y que Dios los bendiga a cada uno de ustedes.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.speaker.gov/video/merry-christmas-our-military,Merry Christmas to our Military,2018-12-24,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,WI,Paul Ryan,R000570,www.speaker.gov,,,legacy,"To all of our men and women around the world this holiday season, especially those of you from the great state of Wisconsin, I know it is said many times many ways: thank you for your service.
You and your families are never far from our thoughts. How blessed we are to live under the cover of your protection. Merry Christmas.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.wicker.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/weekly-report?ContentRecord_id=135BFAEF-486F-4F72-87D5-8B3714E56E3F,Wicker Reflects on Milestone Moments of This Congress,2018-12-24,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,MS,Roger Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,,,legacy,"A full year has passed since Congress enacted the most significant tax reform of the past 31 years, and its positive effects are still reverberating on the economy and on American lives.
The long-awaited overhaul of our outdated tax code was a milestone moment, leading to bigger paychecks, a simplified tax system, and new jobs. The bill created Opportunity Zones to help spur business investment in our country's most disadvantaged areas, and it incentivized employers to offer family and medical leave. American workers, families, and communities have all benefited from the law's provisions and the solid economic growth it has helped generate.
Comprehensive tax reform was hardly a one-hit wonder for this Congress. Many other significant legislative items have rounded out a notable and lengthy achievement list over the past two years. The most recent additions to that list are a prison reform bill to lower the recidivism rate among repeat offenders and a five-year farm bill to provide stability for our farmers. Here are a few other important highlights:
 
Rebuilding the military. After years of military cuts and the downsizing of our forces, Congress and the Trump Administration are restoring America's defense strength. For the first time in 10 years, Congress delivered a budget to the Pentagon on time, giving our military commanders certainty that they will have the resources to protect our national security interests. As a member of the Armed Services Committee, I was successful in getting the SHIPS Act passed to help initiate a buildup of our naval fleet. Congress also passed the VA MISSION Act to ensure that our veterans receive the benefits they deserve.
 
 
Fighting the opioid epidemic. The rampant abuse of opioids is killing Americans and destroying families at an alarming rate. It has become a national crisis deserving of a national response, which Congress provided with a thorough legislative package passed earlier this year. The new law recognizes the complexity of the problem and targets both the international shipping of these drugs into the country and the local tools needed by communities to help victims get the rehabilitation they need.
 
 
Reining in overregulation. Congress acted quickly to curb the unnecessary costs and burdens associated with many Obama-era regulations, repealing 16 of them using the Congressional Review Act. Congress also acted on a bipartisan basis to exempt community banks from the regulations intended for Wall Street banks after the 2008 financial crisis.
 
 
Transforming the judiciary. In keeping with its constitutional duty, the Senate has worked diligently to approve President Trump's nominees for our nation's courts. In just this Congress, we have confirmed two Supreme Court justices and 30 judges for our circuit courts. With these lifetime appointments, President Trump and a Republican-led Senate have helped ensure conservative voices are heard in our court system for years to come.
 
By August of last year, the 115th Congress had been recognized as one of the most productive Congresses of the past several years. I hope the next Congress follows in these footsteps, working efficiently to craft legislative solutions that can further enrich American lives.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://latta.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398974,Latta Continues Efforts to Improve Water Infrastructure,2018-12-23,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,OH,Robert Latta,L000566,latta.house.gov,,,legacy,"The U.S. House of Representatives and U.S. Senate have approved legislation, H.R. 7279, the Water Infrastructure Improvement Act, that includes a number of provisionsauthoredby Congressman Bob Latta (R-Bowling Green) earlier this Congress. Latta has worked for years on that legislation which provides communities more flexibility to comply with costly regulations on the nation's communities in regards to their wastewater infrastructure improvements. Congressman Latta was also successful in havingclean drinking water provisionssigned into law a few months ago.
There are billions of dollars' worth of water, wastewater, and stormwater infrastructure needs in Ohio, and it's critical to provide communities with the ability to meet their obligations in a more cost-effective manner, said Latta. This legislation is important because it allows municipalities and clean water utilities to decide how to best spend their limited financial resources. Integrated Planning allows communities to allocate funds in a targeted manner, focusing them on the most effective water quality improvements. Modernizing our water infrastructure is a critical issue in the Buckeye State and it's why I've led on efforts in Congress to improve both our wastewater and drinking water systems.
The legislation has the support of the National Association of Clean Water Agencies (NACWA).
Congressman Latta has remained a true leader throughout his time in Congress to ensure communities across Ohio are provided with the safe, reliable, and affordable public water services they need and deserve,said Adam Krantz, NACWA's Chief Executive Officer. His legislation and leadership to codify Integrated Planning into law will help further provide communities, both large and small, with the tools they need to meet the growing clean water challenges they face each day. NACWA greatly appreciates Congressman Latta's hard work and dedication on this strong bipartisan legislation and for his continued commitment to improving our nation's water and clean water infrastructure.
Under the Clean Water Act, municipalities on average are spending nearly 7% of their tax dollars on water and sewer systems. Even with that amount of taxpayer money, there is a need for approximately $300 billion for clean water infrastructure investments nationally. Many ratepayers are also seeing sewer rates increase at a rapid pace compared to inflation.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://abraham.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/political-foes-unite-cause,Political foes unite for cause,2018-12-23,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,LA,Ralph Abraham,A000374,abraham.house.gov,,,legacy,"President Trump and Congress haven't given us many reasons to be joyful during this Christmas season, but there is one major exception worthy of note. Thanks to a rare bipartisan effort, members of Congress by overwhelming margins in the U.S. House and Senate have approved major criminal justice reform legislation.
Criminal justice reform has had the support of widely divergent organizations. Among them are the conservative Koch Brothers' Americans for Prosperity organization and the liberal American Civil Liberties Union.
Groups of every political persuasion in Louisiana also supported this state's 2017 reform effort.
U.S. Sen. John Kennedy, R-La., and U.S Reps. Clay Higgins, R-Port Barre, andRalph Abraham, R-Alto, opposed the legislation. No surprises there. Kennedy has been a constant critic of Louisiana's reform effort and Democratic Gov. John Bel Edwards, who promoted criminal justice reform.
Kennedy had considered opposing Edwards in 2019, but changed his mind.Abrahamsaid he is running for governor. Like Kennedy,Abrahamapparently plans to use criminal justice reform against Edwards during the campaign. Higgins is a former law enforcement officer who takes a hard line on the issue.
To read the full story, click here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://byrne.house.gov/media-center/columns/christmas-traditions-old-and-new,Christmas Traditions Old and New,2018-12-23,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,AL,Bradley Byrne,B001289,byrne.house.gov,,,legacy,"I was recently asked what my favorite Christmas tradition is and found that a surprisingly hard question to answer.
It seems that nearly every moment is a tradition with my family, and that makes it hard to pick just one.
From making gumbo Christmas Eve morning to wrapping presents to gathering on Christmas Day, there are so many individual moments that add up to make the season special.
This year, we have added new traditions to our family's celebration with our grandchildren, MacGuire and Ann-Roberts. There was no greater scene of pure joy than when we picked out our Christmas tree with them, and then as they helped Rebecca and me decorate the tree.
After I thought more on my what favorite Christmas tradition is, I reflected on why we celebrate the Christmas season in the first place.
The church's liturgical calendar begins with the season of Advent. From the lighting of the first candle, the new year has begun, anticipating the birth of our Savior on Christmas. The entirety of the year depends upon the preparation for and celebration of the birth of Christ. Epiphany, Lent, and Easter all rely on that first candle's light proclaiming the coming of the Lord, wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.
Similar, yet still very different, to our holiday preparations today, there were many small moments that added up to the joy of that first Christmas night. From the angel proclaiming the news to Mary, Mary telling Joseph, and the long trek to Bethlehem, many small parts had to come together in the Town of David.
My favorite Christmas tradition is without a doubt going to church as a family on Christmas Eve and worshipping Jesus on his birth.
From the light of the first candle, all those in attendance on Christmas Eve light their own candles. No one person's candle could light the church, but together, we all fill the church with the soft amber glow.
In the same way, the good news of the birth of Christ cannot be proclaimed by one person alone. His light must be carried by millions, proclaiming His word and salvation.
After the readings, hymns, prayers, homily, and communion my favorite portion of the service occurs.
The first few bars of Silent Night are played, and the church joins in together with the choir. Slowly, all the lights in the church are extinguished, and we are left to sing the last verse in darkness.
The last line fades into the dark of the night, sleep in heavenly peace and all is still.
That moment of calm reflection on the entirety of the past year, the highs and lows, rejoicing and tears, makes one think of how truly blessed we are in our daily lives.
Those living in the darkness of fear, illness, poverty, or other challenges this year, I hope you take comfort this Christmas season in the words written in John 1:5, the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.
For my family, friends, and staff, I am thankful for the past year we have shared together and anticipate the joys of the next.
Andto the people of Southwest Alabama, I say thank you for your generosity, kindness, and prayers throughout the years. I look forward to hearing from you and serving you next year.
As you celebrate your favorite Christmas traditions this year, I hope you take a moment to give thanks for your blessings and remember the birth of our Savior.
From my family to yours, we wish you a very Merry Christmas!",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://hudson.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=25&itemid=1943,Hudson Statement on Schumer Shutdown,2018-12-23,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,NC,Richard Hudson,H001067,hudson.house.gov,,,legacy,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

	
		December 23, 2018

	
		
	
		Hudson Statement on Schumer Shutdown

	
		
	
		WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Representative Richard Hudson (NC-08) released the following statement after the Senate failed to act to avert a partial government shutdown and secure our border:
	
		
	
		It baffles me that Chuck Schumer and Washington Democrats yet again put partisanship over the American people, said Rep. Hudson. We have a crisis at our southern border, and I will continue to stand with President Trump to get the resources we need to secure our border and keep the American people safe.

	
		
	
		Earlier this year, Congress passed and President Donald Trump signed into law five of the 12 annual spending bills, funding the majority of the federal government for fiscal year 2019. This was a big deal and a huge priority for Rep. Hudson because it marked the first on-time annual funding bill for the Department of Defense in 22 years and included a well-deserved pay raise of 2.6% for our brave service members. Unfortunately, Democrats wouldn't come to the table and work with Republicans to improve border security  among many other issues  so Congress was forced to pass what's known as a continuing resolution (CR) that lasted until December for the remaining seven funding bills.
	
		
	
		The House of Representatives passed a reasonable bill on Thursday to fund the remaining government agencies and President Trump's requested $5.7 billion for border security. The Senate failed to act by the funding deadline.
	
		
	
		###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2018/12/ensuring-kansas-students-have-the-opportunity-to-be-our-nation-s-future-astronauts,Ensuring Kansas students have the opportunity to be our nations future astronauts,2018-12-23,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,KS,Jerry Moran,M000934,www.moran.senate.gov,,,legacy,"This op-ed ran inThe Wichita Eagleon December 23, 2018.
Fifty years ago, NASA's Apollo 8 mission sent humans around the moon for the very first time on Christmas Eve. One out of four people in the world watched as the crew broadcasted back to earth: Good night, good luck, a Merry Christmas, and God bless all of you, all of you on the good Earth.
And late last month, we all cheered with NASA's engineers as they celebrated NASA's most recent accomplishment, the touchdown of the InSight mission on Mars  the first time in six years we've landed spacecraft on the planet.
Today, I am on a mission to make certain children across America can inherit these same opportunities to explore our solar system and beyond.
As chairman of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies, which has jurisdiction over the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, providing strong support for NASA has been a priority, especially as it relates to programs meant to incentivize STEM education for the next generation.
Undoubtedly, employers increasingly desire that their employees hold and maintain a substantial degree of knowledge in the STEM fields.
In response to this mandate, my Senate subcommittee has produced an overwhelmingly bipartisan appropriations bill for the upcoming fiscal year that prioritizes education programs within NASA  not just in theory, but in actual dollars.
Included as part of NASA's budget is the Office of STEM Engagement, which seeks to provide superior learning tools to young Americans and classroom educators in an effort to increase K-12 involvement in STEM.
Additional programs incentivize and provide opportunities for young women and minority students to engage in STEM in even greater numbers than they do today. Further, an award utilizing the expertise of the Cosmosphere in Hutchinson will bring STEM experiences and learning directly to Kansas classrooms.
I recently hosted NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine and NASA astronaut Don Pettit for a day of activities in Wichita and Hutchinson, where they visited with more than 150 students, families and educators about NASA, space exploration and the importance of remaining curious.
The event confirmed what I know to be true: the idea of space travel is utterly captivating for students, and that astronauts, in particular, hold a special place in our hearts. To so many of us, NASA astronauts are genuine American heroes.
During a visit to Exploration Place, Pettit provided the audience with this advice: Find your frontier . . . and then the hard work begins. Now, you have to start doing something about your frontier. You've got to start exploring.
It strikes me as I drive across Kansas seeing highway and roadway signs declaring that any certain town is the hometown of an astronaut. This spring, Nick Hague from Hoxie will become the fourth Kansan ever to travel to space. He follows Steve Hawley of Ottawa, who flew five Space Shuttle missions, and astronauts Ron Evans of Topeka and Joe Engle of Abilene, who both flew on Apollo missions. And Kansas City, Kansas, native Capt. Edward Dwight became the first African American named to the astronaut program in 1963.
Kansans have always had a pioneering spirit, and I believe that many students in our Kansas classrooms right now are searching for their frontier, and will someday be our nation's scientists, engineers, mathematicians  even astronauts. My mission is to help students realize that no matter where you grow up, you can pursue any dream you can imagine.
I'm committed to helping make certain NASA continues to inspire our future innovators and has the tools it needs to recruit and retain top talent. Through my role as an appropriator, I will continue prioritizing and providing resources for forward-thinking and sensible programs to help young people in Kansas and across the country connect with NASA.
I am doing all that I can in Congress to help today's students prepare for the jobs of tomorrow  jobs that may just land on Mars.
Click here to read more.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murkowski.senate.gov/press/release/12/23/2018/murkowski-statement-on-partial-government-shutdown,Murkowski Statement on Partial Government Shutdown,2018-12-23,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,AK,Lisa Murkowski,M001153,www.murkowski.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.23.18
			 Murkowski Statement on Partial Government Shutdown 
			
			U.S. Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) issued the following statement on the current partial government shutdown:
Shutting down the government, even partially, is no way to govern. It is disruptive, harmful, wasteful, and could leave hundreds of thousands of federal employees and contractors without paychecks over Christmas, Senator Murkowski said. This year we worked hard to return to regular order in the appropriations process, voting bills out of committee and the Senate with strong bipartisan support. The Appropriations Committee did its work, but the votes are clearly not present in the Senate to provide $5 billion for the border wall and changing filibuster rules would only come back to haunt us in the future. We have to accept those realities and reopen the government as soon as possible. I remain committed to working with my colleagues on a solution to end this partial shutdown and fund the government.
Both chambers of Congress have approved, and the President has signed, five of the 12 appropriations bills for Fiscal Year 2019, which together account for approximately 75 percent of the federal budget. The bills not yet enacted are for Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies; Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies; Financial Services and General Government; Homeland Security; Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies; State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs; and Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies.
Impacts of the Partial Shutdown:
 
Programs that have been funded for the remainder of Fiscal Year 2019 will continue to operate. Examples include Veterans Affairs and Defense. 
Federal employees whose agency or program has not yet been funded for the remainder of Fiscal Year 2019 will be designated by their agency as essential or non-essential.
Only essential employeesgenerally those who do work related to life safety, property protection, health, emergency response, and other work as determined by their agencieswill be allowed to report for work. 
Those deemed non-essential are legally required to stay home and are put on unpaid furlough.
The Department of Homeland Security will be deemed essential, which means employees will work, but without pay. 
Airports will remain open and air traffic controllers and TSA officials will remain on the job. 
National Parks that require staff will be closed except for essential personnel.
 
Additional details on the effects of the government shutdown and frequently asked questions can be found on Senator Murkowski's website here.
			
			
			
		
		
		
	
    
    
	
	
    
	
	
	
		
	
    
	
     
	
 
	
    
    
		
		
		
		
		
		
		
		
		
		
			
		
		  
		
	
	  

	
	
	
	
	 
		
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https://www.perdue.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-david-perdue-this-is-the-second-schumer-shutdown-this-year,Senator David Perdue: This Is The Second Schumer Shutdown This Year,2018-12-23,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,GA,David Perdue,P000612,www.perdue.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Skip to primary navigation Skip to content
		
		
	
	  
	    
	      
	      
	        
	       	
				
				
					
						
						
						
						
						
							
							
							
							
						
						
							
								
							
							
							
								
							
								
							
							
						
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					  News",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://abraham.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/2019-governors-races-feature-endangered-species-conservative-dems,2019 governors races feature endangered species: Conservative Dems,2018-12-22,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,LA,Ralph Abraham,A000374,abraham.house.gov,,,legacy,"In Louisiana, GOP Rep. Ralph Abraham announced earlier this month that he will seek to take on Bel Edwards, joining a Republican field including Eddie Rispone, a Trump megadonor with a background in business rather than electoral politics. Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.) recently announced that he would not run.
Whoever Republicans select as their nominees in those states in 2019, Trump's standing will give a major boost to their campaigns. The same is expected for Bevin in Kentucky, said GOP strategist Ben Hartman, despite a sometimes-rocky first term for the governor.
""The president's popular there, as he should be, because of what he's done for the state, said Hartman, who advised Bevin in the past. And the governor is going to be popular there once people see what he's done in tandem with the president on economic issues.
Democrats know that success in 2019 will hinge on keeping national politics as far out of those states as possible.
The 2019 gubernatorial elections are really taking place in their own political universe, said Zac McCrary, a Democratic pollster. For Democrats to be competitive in those three states, they have to run much different races than Democrats in almost any different part of the country.
To read the full story, click here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://dougcollins.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/president-trump-signs-first-step-act-law,President Trump Signs First Step Act into Law,2018-12-22,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,GA,Doug Collins,C001093,dougcollins.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTONPresident Donald Trump has signed the First Step Act into law.
The bipartisan justice reform bill introduced by Reps. Doug Collins (R-Ga.) and Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) represents one of the most significant overhauls of the federal criminal justice system in a generation.Collins spoke with the president in the Oval Office about why this legislation is historic.
Background:
May 7, 2018:Collins introduces the First Step Actin the House.
May 22, 2018:TheHouse passes the First Step Actby a vote of 360-59.
December 18, 2018:The Senate passes an updated First Step Act.
December 20, 2018:The House passes the updated First Step Act,sending it to the president's desk.
December 21, 2018:President Trump signs the First Step Act into law.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://duffy.house.gov/media-center/enewsletters/saturday-snapshot,Saturday Snapshot,2018-12-22,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,WI,Sean Duffy,D000614,duffy.house.gov,,,legacy,"Dear Friends,
												There has been a lot going on in our neck of the woods of Wisconsin, and I wanted to take a moment to share some of the latest news with you!
												  Top Five In The Nation...Number One In Our Hearts
												There are a lot of reasons to be proud to be from Wisconsin; it's hands down the best place to work, raise a family, or vacation in the country. But we're also leaders when it comes to Christmas tree production! That means that Wisconsin continues to bring joy to families across the country this season.
												ClickHERE or the image below to celebrate Wisconsin's proud Christmas tree production!
												
												  Our Nation Deserves Border Security
												At my recent townhall meeting at Northcentral Technical College in Antigo, I discussed the need for our nation to have a secure border.
												There are too many families across our nation who have lost loved ones because of the meth and heroin that pours over our southern border. In fact, at a recent Law Enforcement Roundtable, Wisconsin law enforcement leaders told me that even though our state is more than 1,000 miles away from Mexico, more than 90% of the meth and heroin in our community can be traced back to Mexico. This is unacceptable. Click HERE to watch a short interview with Eau Claire's Channel 18 about the need for border security.
												
												  More Town Halls!
												Not only did we have a productive townhall meeting in Antigo, but it was great to chat with folks in Eagle River and Medford as well. It's important that we routinely get the opportunity to discuss the issues face to face.
												Click HERE or the image below to ""like"" and SHARE our recent town hall pics!
												
												  Spring Isn't THAT Far Off! Great Opportunity For College Students Or Recent Grads  Attention college students or recent grads: my Washington DC office is now accepting applications for Spring internships. It's a great way to serve your community and get involved in the political process.  
													  
													For more information on the internship, click HERE or the photo below. Also be sure to share these opportunities with any interested students!
												
												  Stay Connected On Social Media   
												Snapchat is a fun way to stay connected with what's going on in Wisconsin and Washington (and of course, find me on Facebook and Twitter- @RepSeanDuffy). Find my snapchat profile either by searching @RepSeanDuffy or use the Snapcode below!",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://duffy.house.gov/media-center/enewsletters/saturday-snapshot-0,Saturday Snapshot,2018-12-22,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,WI,Sean Duffy,D000614,duffy.house.gov,,,legacy,"Dear Friends,
												There has been a lot going on in our neck of the woods of Wisconsin, and I wanted to take a moment to share some of the latest news with you!
												  Top Five In The Nation...Number One In Our Hearts
												There are a lot of reasons to be proud to be from Wisconsin; it's hands down the best place to work, raise a family, or vacation in the country. But we're also leaders when it comes to Christmas tree production! That means that Wisconsin continues to bring joy to families across the country this season.
												ClickHERE or the image below to celebrate Wisconsin's proud Christmas tree production!
												
												  Our Nation Deserves Border Security
												At my recent townhall meeting at Northcentral Technical College in Antigo, I discussed the need for our nation to have a secure border.
												There are too many families across our nation who have lost loved ones because of the meth and heroin that pours over our southern border. In fact, at a recent Law Enforcement Roundtable, Wisconsin law enforcement leaders told me that even though our state is more than 1,000 miles away from Mexico, more than 90% of the meth and heroin in our community can be traced back to Mexico. This is unacceptable. Click HERE to watch a short interview with Eau Claire's Channel 18 about the need for border security.
												
												  More Town Halls!
												Not only did we have a productive townhall meeting in Antigo, but it was great to chat with folks in Eagle River and Medford as well. It's important that we routinely get the opportunity to discuss the issues face to face.
												Click HERE or the image below to ""like"" and SHARE our recent town hall pics!
												
												  Spring Isn't THAT Far Off! Great Opportunity For College Students Or Recent Grads  Attention college students or recent grads: my Washington DC office is now accepting applications for Spring internships. It's a great way to serve your community and get involved in the political process.  
													  
													For more information on the internship, click HERE or the photo below. Also be sure to share these opportunities with any interested students!
												
												  Stay Connected On Social Media   
												Snapchat is a fun way to stay connected with what's going on in Wisconsin and Washington (and of course, find me on Facebook and Twitter- @RepSeanDuffy). Find my snapchat profile either by searching @RepSeanDuffy or use the Snapcode below!",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/fitzpatrick-statement-government-shutdown-0,Fitzpatrick Statement on Government Shutdown,2018-12-22,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,PA,Brian Fitzpatrick,F000466,fitzpatrick.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DCCongressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-08) issued the following statement on the partial government shutdownincluding his intention to abide by his No Budget, No Pay proposal and reject a salary until a spending agreement is reached:
Government shutdowns are not an effective way to govern. They're costly, unnecessary, and demonstrate a failure to lead from both parties. While I strongly believe that we must secure our border and fix our broken immigration system, Congress had plenty of opportunities to act and failed each time. Earlier this year, I voted for a compromise bill that would have secured our borders and protected DACA recipients. Unfortunately, that measure failed to make it out of the House.
I have not, and will not, vote to shut down the government. It's the basic duty of Congress to fund the federal government. Shutdowns disrupt government services, compromise national security, and cause uncertainty for federal employees. Critical funding for programs like the Violence Against Women Act lapse. Congress should follow the way the American people run their businesses and manage their families: lead by example to build consensus and solve problems in a dignified, honorable manner.
I will be leading by example. I will not accept any pay during any government shutdown. I am not delaying my pay; I am sending it back to the United States Treasury. And I am not only encouraging, but I am urging, all my colleagues, both Republican and Democrat, to do the same. Let's send a message to the extreme partisans on both sides: do your job or don't get paid.
As we await action from the Senate, I remain willing to work with both sides to find solutions and keep the government open.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases/statement-fleischmann-government-shutdown,STATEMENT: Fleischmann on Government Shutdown,2018-12-22,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,TN,"Charles J. ""Chuck"" Fleischmann",F000459,fleischmann.house.gov,fleischmann,https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Chuck Fleischmann (TN-03) issued the following statement in response to the partial government shutdown:

""I will never be in favor of a government shutdown. The House took action to prevent a shutdown over border security, and it is a shame the Senate did not follow suit. As Members of Congress, we have a responsibility to fund the government and we also have a duty to protect the American people. These two priorities should never be contradictory to one another. The time is now for Senate Democrats to come to the table and provide the border security funding America needs.""

The following information is courtesy of the House Committee on Appropriations: The lapse in appropriations affects 25 percent of the federal government, including funding for the Departments of Agriculture, Commerce, Justice, Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, Interior, Treasury, State, and Homeland Security, as well as the Food and Drug Administration, the Environmental Protection Agency, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, the federal judiciary, and other related government programs.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T23:11:43Z
https://fortenberry.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/fortenberry-statement-budget-negotiations,Fortenberry Statement on Budget Negotiations,2018-12-22,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,NE,Jeff Fortenberry,F000449,fortenberry.house.gov,,,legacy,"Dec 13, 2018    
          Press Release    
    
          (Washington, D.C.)  Congressman Jeff Fortenberry (R-NE) made the following statement yesterday on the passage of the Farm Bill:    
  
      
    
          Dec 1, 2018    
          Press Release    
    
          President George H.W. Bush showed us the virtues of honor in office, dignity and formality. Hearing of his death, I reflected on the story of his dramatic rescue at sea after being shot down over the Pacific during WWII. His passing reminds us again of the Greatest Generation's...    
  
      
    
          Oct 17, 2018    
          Press Release    
    
          (Lincoln, NE) Congressman Jeff Fortenberry today provided the following statement after introducing a resolution in the House of Representatives for the development of a security plan for religious minorities in Northern Iraq:    
  
      
    
          Oct 15, 2018    
          Press Release    
    
          (Washington, D.C.) Last week, Congressman Jeff Fortenberry (NE-1) and Congresswoman Nita Lowey (NY-17) introduced thePalestinian Partnership Fund Act of 2018. This legislation builds bridges between Israelis and Palestinians, laying the groundwork for peace and prosperity...    
  
      
    
          Oct 3, 2018    
          Press Release    
    
          (Washington, D.C.)  Congressman Jeff Fortenberry (R-NE) today issued the following statement on the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA):
This reformed and renegotiated trade deal with Canada and Mexico appears to move us in the right direction, Fortenberry said. ...    
  
      
    
          Sep 18, 2018    
          Press Release    
    
          (Bellevue, NE, September 18, 2018)Today, in a ceremony at the Bellevue Public Schools Welcome Center, Congressman Jeff Fortenberry presented several outstanding Nebraska students with the prestigious Congressional Award.    
  
      
    
          Sep 10, 2018    
          Press Release    
    
          (Washington,DC,September 10, 2018)Members of the Nebraska Congressional delegation have urged leadership of the House and Senate Appropriations Committee on Defenseto adopt the Senate's language to fully fund the OC-135B Aircraft Replacement Programas part of their...    
  
      
    
          Sep 10, 2018    
          Press Release    
    
          (Washington,DC, September 10, 2018)I am pleased to report that as part of the fiscal 2019 Energy-Water, Military Construction-VA and Legislative Branch spending package, Congressional interns will now be paid in both the Senate and the House, Congressman Fortenberry said.    
  
      
    
          Aug 20, 2018    
          Press Release    
    
          (Lincoln, NE, August 20, 2018)-On Saturday, August 18, at 7:30 PM, Congressman Jeff Fortenberry (R-NE) spoke to an audience of over 300 about the plight of religious minorities in Northern Iraq at the 24thannual Go Big Red Night in the social hall of St.    
  
      
    
          Aug 3, 2018    
          Press Release    
    
          (Lincoln, NE)  Congressman Jeff Fortenberry spent the evening with the Yazidi community of Lincoln, America's largest, to commemorate the fourth anniversary of the Yazidi Genocide.
The Yazidis are an ancient ethno-religious people who primarily live in the Nineveh and Sinjar...",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://foxx.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=399434,Foxx Statement on Partial Government Shutdown,2018-12-22,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,NC,Virginia Foxx,F000450,foxx.house.gov,foxx,https://foxx.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Rep. Virginia Foxx (R-N.C.) released the following statement after the U.S. Senate failed to consider the House-passed continuing resolution funding the federal government by the December 21 deadline. The House passed its continuing resolution on Thursday, December 20, which included $5.7 billion for a border wall and fully funded the federal government through February 8, 2019.

“This shutdown was preventable, and it is a shame that a strong border securing our nation is no longer the bipartisan priority it once was. Under President Bush, the Secure Fence Act passed handily in the House and Senate, 283-138 and 80-19 respectively. Congress should not be divided on keeping the government open while fulfilling our duty to protect our nation. Nor should we allow politics to disrupt the services owed to American taxpayers. It is my intention to continue working with all parties interested in solutions to end this shutdown and make progress toward a border wall. I hope that Senate Democrats are willing to cooperate.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T23:11:43Z
https://gaetz.house.gov/media/press-releases/update-december-2018-partial-government-shutdown-information,***UPDATE: December 2018 Partial Government Shutdown Information,2018-12-22,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,FL,Matt Gaetz,G000578,gaetz.house.gov,,,legacy,"The Senate's refusal to pass a funding bill with border security funds make it look more and more like we are heading for a shutdown.
If this happens, it will only be a partial shutdown, because 3/4 of the government has already been funded.The Department of Defense has already been funded for the entire year, so military personnel and operations will be unaffected by the shutdown.
Several of you have contacted my office to ask about national parks, like Gulf Islands National Seashore.Unlike shutdowns in previous years, national parks are expected to remain OPEN though they will not be staffed by personnel, and the facilities (like restrooms and visitor centers) will be closed.
The House and Senate have both passed an extension of the National Flood Insurance Program until May 2019, so, pending President Trump's signature, flood insurance coverage will not lapse.
Here are how other agencies and departments will be affected (or not) by the shutdown:
 Mail will continue as usual
	Social Security checks will be mailed as usual
	Medicare and Medicaid coverage will continue like normal
	TSA agents will still work, and flights will stay on schedule
	HUD housing voucher payments will continue
	HUD grants will continue
	Ginnie Mae will continue to guarantee mortgage securities
	The Federal Housing Administration will slow its loan processing and approval; new loan applications may be paused
	EPA emergency cleanup projects will continue
	USDA will continue to inspect meat, poultry, and eggs
	Federal courts will remain open (for about three weeks, but by that point the shutdown should be resolved)
	Railroad inspectors will continue to work
	Amtrak will continue to run
	Highway toll booths, because they are primarily staffed by state employees, will continue normal operations
	My Congressional office will continue to process casework and constituent requests.
 For more information about national parks, seehereand here.
For more information about agencies affected by the shutdown, seehereandhere.
The House is scheduled to be in session tomorrow (Saturday, December 22)  though without further action from the Senate, we have nothing to vote on yet. Negotiations will likely continue quite late.
I will keep you posted as things develop, and for breaking updates, check my Facebook and Twitter!",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://gonzalez-colon.house.gov/media/press-releases/comisionada-residente-anuncia-elecci-n-de-la-laguna-de-condado-para-proyecto,Comisionada residente anuncia eleccin de la Laguna de Condado para proyecto piloto del Cuerpo de Ingenieros,2018-12-22,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,PR,Jenniffer González-Colón,G000582,gonzalez-colon.house.gov,,,legacy,"San Juan, Puerto Rico-La comisionada residente, Jenniffer Gonzlez Coln, anunci que el Cuerpo de Ingenieros de los Estados Unidos escogi el proyecto de dragado de la Laguna del Condado, como uno de los diez proyectos en toda la Nacin que recibir un 100 por ciento de financiamiento, dentro del plan piloto de uso beneficioso de material sacado del dragado.
Bajo la Seccin 1122 de la Ley para el Desarrollo de los Recursos de Aguas (WRDA, por sus siglas e ingls) del 2016, se le requiere al Cuerpo de Ingenieros del Ejrcito de los Estados Unidos (USACE, por sus siglas en ingls) que establezca un programa piloto para llevar acabo 10 proyectos para uso beneficioso del material que se extraiga del dragado efectuado.
Para este programa piloto, las diferentes regiones de USACE sometieron un total de 95 propuestas para ser evaluadas, siendo escogidas diez, entra laque se encuentra el proyecto de dragado de la Laguna del Condado en San Juan.
Parte del expreso Baldorioty de Castro, se construy sobre la Laguna del Condado y la parte del cuerpo de agua que se rellen ha causado problemas como inundaciones en la zona. Con este proyecto, en donde se trabajara en la depresin de ms de 40 pies de profundidad, se busca una mejor calidad del agua lo que ayudar a que crezcan yerbas marinas en el fondo y el material que se saque del dragado puede ser utilizado para la restauracin de playas.
Este propuesta ganadora, forma a su vezparte del Plan de Accin del Estuario de la Baha de San Juan.
Este ejercicio de usar material del dragado para otros usos se ha hecho anteriormente, pero era financiado parte con fondos estatales, la diferencia en esta ocasin es que ser sufragado totalmente con fondos federales.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://hartzler.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/hartzler-statement-lapse-appropriations-funding-department-homeland,Hartzler Statement on Lapse of Appropriations Funding for Department of Homeland Security and other Federal Agencies,2018-12-22,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,MO,Vicky Hartzler,H001053,hartzler.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.  Congresswoman Vicky Hartzler (MO-04) made the following statement regarding the lapse of appropriations funding for the Department of Homeland Security and other federal agencies:
On December 20th I voted for a continuing resolution to fund the entire government through February 7th, 2019. This measure added much needed border security funding for the Department of Homeland Security while also funding other select federal agencies. Unfortunately, the Senate did not reach the required sixty votes necessary to approve this measure, putting some government operations on hold until funding is approved.
I encourage Democrats in the Senate and in the House to support legislation that funds our government and prioritizes our security by increasing funding to protect our border, stop the flow of deadly drugs into our communities, and curb the stem of illegal immigration into our country. I stand by, ready to support such a measure and to urge them to come alongside us to protect our communities.

-30

For the latest official portrait of Congresswoman Hartzler, please click here. Interested members of the media may contact Anna Swick at anna.swick@mail.house.gov.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://lahood.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/lahood-s-legislation-honor-fallen-army-ranger-joshua-rodgers-signed-law,LaHoods Legislation to Honor Fallen Army Ranger Joshua Rodgers Signed into Law,2018-12-22,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,IL,Darin LaHood,L000585,lahood.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.Last night President Trump signed into law legislation introduced by Congressman Darin LaHood to rename a Bloomington-Normal, Illinois, U.S. post office in honor of U.S. Army Sergeant Joshua Rodgers. The bill, H.R. 4326, was unanimously passed in both the House of Representatives and the Senate and will rename the U.S. Post office at 200 West North Street in Normal, Illinois.

Sergeant Joshua Rodgers is an American hero and we will forever be indebted to him for his selfless service to our country. With President Trump's signature, Sergeant Rodgers' patriotism and sacrifice will forever be cemented in the Normal community. While we can never fully repay Josh for his service, this small step will ensure his bravery is never forgotten, stated Rep. Darin LaHood.

Sergeant Joshua Rodgers is a hometown hero and renaming this post office will make sure that his name and the sacrifice he made for us is remembered for generations to come, said Rep. Rodney Davis. It's because of men and women like Sergeant Rodgers who risk their lives in service to our country that we remain free. It is a privilege to be able to honor his life and service with this post office and I look forward to seeing the Sgt. Josh Rodgers Post Office in Normal soon.

Background:
On April 27, 2017, U.S. Army Sergeant Joshua Rodgers was killed in action supporting Operation Freedom's Sentinel in Afghanistan during a raid on the headquarters of ISIS emir Abdul Hasib. Rodgers received wounds in an hours-long firefight during his third tour of duty as a member of the elite special operations unit. The Bloomington native was 22 years old and already a decorated hero receiving numerous awards and medals, including the Army Achievement Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with Campaign Star, Army Service Ribbon, and the NATO Medal. He also received the Bronze Star with Valor and Purple Heart posthumously.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://lamborn.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2517,Congressman Lamborn's Statement on Partial Shut Down of the Government,2018-12-22,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,CO,Doug Lamborn,L000564,lamborn.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Lamborn's Statement on Partial Shut Down of the Government 
   
    
       
      
  
    
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      Washington D.C.  Congressman Doug Lamborn (CO-05) issued the following statement following the partial shutdown of the federal government:  

On Thursday, I voted to keep the government running and provide funding for our border security. On Friday, the Senate failed to act on that legislation. Securing our nation's borders should not be a partisan issue  yet  that's exactly what Chuck Schumer and Senate Democrats have made it. Now, hundreds of thousands of Americans will be without pay until Congress can resolve this issue. That's at least one reason why I will not be receiving my salary until a solution is finalized. I'll continue fighting for what's right and working to protect the American people.""
    
  
  
  
    
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https://roe.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398419,Roe Statement on Government Shutdown,2018-12-22,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,TN,Phil Roe,R000582,roe.house.gov,,,legacy,"Roe Statement on Government Shutdown  
   
    
       
      
  
    
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      WASHINGTON D.C.  Today, Rep. Phil Roe, M.D. (R-TN) released the following statement on the government shutdown:  

No one wants to see the government shut down. On Thursday, I proudly supported legislation to continue funding the remaining government agencies, provide an additional $5 billion to construct a wall at our southern border and provide $7.8 billion in disaster relief. The president's request for funding for a wall on our southern border is entirely reasonable and necessary for our security. I hope the Senate and House Democrats will work in good faith to come together with the president and work out their differences as soon as possible so we can end this shutdown.  

Note: Currently the government is partially funded through Fiscal Year 2019. Funding has already been signed into law through September 30, 2019 for the following departments: Department of Defense, Department of Health and Human Services, Department of Education, Department of Labor, Department of Energy, Legislative Branch, and Department of Veterans Affairs. The remaining departments and agencies were funded by a continuing resolution which expired at midnight on December 21.   
    
  
  
  
    
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https://toomey.senate.gov?p=news&id=2319,Toomey Statement on Government Funding Vote,2018-12-22,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,PA,Patrick Toomey,T000461,toomey.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. - U.S. Senator Pat Toomey (R-Pa.) issued the following statement regarding the government funding vote:
""This is a disappointing situation for all parties involved, especially for affected federal employees. However, there is a deal to be made, but as today's vote showed, it requires the White House to negotiate with the Senate Minority Leader. This should not be an impossible feat, given that Democrats have voted in the past for a wall. In 2013, every Senate Democrat supported legislation to spend $46 billion on border security and a wall. Now, many of these same lawmakers are balking about a bill that puts $5 billion toward border security. For that reason, I am hopeful this impasse can be resolved in short order.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://walker.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/president-trump-signs-walker-s-bill-end-taxpayer-funded-sexual,President Trump Signs Walkers Bill to End Taxpayer-Funded Sexual Harassment Settlements into Law,2018-12-22,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,NC,Mark Walker,W000819,walker.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.U.S. RepresentativeMarkWalker(R-N.C.) today released the following statement after President Donald J. Trump signed S.3749, the Congressional Accountability Act of 1995 Reform Act into law, legislation co-sponsored by Walker: ""The existence of a secret hush fund that uses taxpayer money to settle sexual misconduct from members of Congress highlights exactly why people don't trust Washington. That's why we are ending it. From now on, members of Congress will be held accountable for their misbehavior, just like every other American. This is a great start, but in the next Congress, I will be working to ensure more accountability for former members who continue to profit off their time in Congress, despite leaving due to such actions."" The Congressional Accountability Act of 1995 Reform Act was written following multiple Committee on House Administration hearings on the matter. As reported by USA Today: ""It holds lawmakers, including those who leave office, financially liable for settlements resulting from all types of harassment and retaliation, but doesn't cover discrimination claims. It also eliminates mandatory counseling, mediation and the 'cooling off'period victims are currently required to wait before filing a lawsuit or requesting an administrative hearing. ""The bill requires public reporting of settlements, including identifying lawmakers who are personally liable, and extends protections to include interns, fellows and other staff."" You can read the full text of the legislation here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z