url,title,date,year,month,party,chamber,state,member_name,bioguide_id,domain,scraper,source,date_source,text,has_text,collected_at,updated_at https://bost.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/get-latest-southern-illinois-flooding-here,"Get the Latest on the Southern Illinois Flooding, HERE.",2015-12-30,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,IL,Mike Bost,B001295,bost.house.gov,,,legacy,"Because I want to do everything I can to provide Southern Illinoisans with the resources they need should this flood damage or destroy property, I am providing residents with the following links for up-to-date information concerning the Flood of 2015. For a list of available Red Cross shelters should you need to evacuate your home or business, clickHERE. For a list of the latestroad closings throughout Southern Illinois, click HERE. Most importantly, please DO NOT attempt to drive your car into a high water area. We have already seen tragedy associated with residents trying to cross roadways in order to get to higher elevations. If you have any questions, please contact my office in Belleville at (618) 233-8026 or in Carbondale at (618) 457-5787. The most important thing you can do is pray for our residents, first responders and all those directly impacted by this flooding. Thank you. Mike. Our next stop was Alexander County where we talked to workers and local officials at the county highway garage in Olive Branch. I'm continuing our tour of areas in the 12th District most prone to flooding or that have already seen flooding. We're now in Grand Tower, one of the areas that may see some of the worst flooding, talking with residents and officials in that community. We've had wonderful response and communication from the Army Corps of Engineers. With me addressing questions from residents and officials in Grand Tower is Major General Michael Wehr. A critical part of getting needed information out to our residents is the local media and I thank them for doing, just that. Reporters from WSIL TV 3 and KFVS TV 12 were here, talking to residents and us about the latest flooding information to pass on to their viewers. Thank you for helping Southern Illinoisans stay informed! In Alton, dozens of volunteers helped place sandbags ahead of where water is expected to rise. Mayor Brant Walker told me flooding was expected in the basements of the downtown business district but they are preparing for the worst. We also met with officials from FEMA as we continue communication with all the federal, state and local agencies involved to work together in helping our Southern Illinoisans. As I continue to tour the areas of the District impacted by the flooding, I stopped in Alton to talk with Mayor Brant Walker. Alton is along the Mississippi River in Madison County and is about 15 miles north of St. Louis. It's been an amazing experience seeing Southern Illinoisans coming out to help their neighbors, even though many have never met. I was touched to see members of the Civic Memorial High School football team in Bethalto come to Alton to help fill sand bags. The Southern Illinois spirit is strong as we help each other! If you get a chance, please share this photo to let others know what these young men did for their community! Please continue to pray for all those impacted by this severe flooding from our residents to our local businesses and our first responders. The response of Southern Illinoisans to help their neighbors has been overwhelming. If you need to move to a shelter, here's a site that will provide you with that information. Just click on the state of Illinois and look to the right of the screen. It's there where you'll find the current list of shelters in Southern Illinois operated by the Red Cross. You can access that website, HERE. For the latest information on road closures, flood warnings and watches, you can go to a site maintained by the State of Illinois. It is updated on a regular basis. To find out more, click HERE.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://quigley.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/quigley-lee-baldwin-warren-respond-to-fda-policy-change-to-blood-donor,"Quigley, Lee, Baldwin, Warren Respond to FDA Policy Change to Blood Donor Deferral Policy for MSM",2015-12-22,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Mike Quigley,Q000023,quigley.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Yesterday, U.S. Representatives Mike Quigley (IL-05), Vice-Chair of the Congressional LGBT Equality Caucus, and Barbara Lee (CA-13) and U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) and Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) released the following statement regarding the Food and Drug Administrations (FDA) policy change of the blood donor deferral policy for men who have sex with men (MSM) from lifetime ban to one-year deferral: This past year, we saw tremendous progress for the LGBT community with the legalization of same sex marriage nationwide. Unfortunately, today's official policy change by the FDA on blood donations from men who have sex with men (MSM) from a lifetime ban to one-year deferral does not keep up with that same progress, said. Rep. Quigley. A time-based deferral focusing solely on men who have sex with men is still discriminatory and fails to exclude donors based on actual risk factors. However, I remain encouraged by the ongoing conversation to change this outdated policy. As the leader of the bipartisan, bicameral effort to reverse the FDAs discriminatory policy, I will continue to fight for a deferral policy based on behavioral risks, commensurate with the rest of the population and based on sound science, bringing equality for the LGBT community while still protecting the U.S. blood supply. I am encouraged that the FDA swiftly finalized this guidance to move forward and revise the discriminatory lifetime ban on blood donations. However, this is just the first step toward ending an outdated policy that is medically and scientifically unwarranted, said Senator Baldwin.This revision doesnt go far enough and I expect the FDA to maintain its commitment to work with stakeholders to develop better blood donor policies based on science. I will continue to push the Administration to move forward to achieve our ultimate goal of blood donation policies that are based on individual risk factors, that dont unfairly single out one group of individuals, and that allow all healthy Americans to donate. The FDAs long-overdue decision to overturn the lifetime ban on blood donations from men who have sex with men (MSM) is an important step forward, but a one-year deferral policy for all MSM remains discriminatory, said Senator Warren. The FDA says it will continue to reevaluate its policy, and the agency needs to commit to developing a risk-based framework for all blood donors that is based on current science. I will continue to press the agency to move in this direction in order to improve the safety and robustness of the blood supply. I applaud todays decision from the Food and Drug Administration to lift the discriminatory lifetime blood donation ban for members of the MSM community. However, the policy of one year deferral still maintains the long outdated policies concerning blood donations from the MSM community without scientific justification, said Rep. Lee. Blood and blood products are critical to the treatment of many medical conditions and blood supplies are chronically low, especially around the holidays. Our blood donation policies should be based on science, not fear. I have called and will continue to call for blood donation policies that are based on the best possible science, data and technical capacity to ensure public health. The previous lifetime ban on MSM donating blood was put in place during the rise of the AIDS epidemic in the 1980s, but is no longer scientifically justified with current blood screening technology. In 2010, the HHS Advisory Committee on Blood & Tissue Safety & Availability (ACBTSA) found the ban to be suboptimal and asked for re-evaluation of this policy. In response to a letter from legislators in 2013, HHS indicated that the Department will finish deliberations on a policy change to the blood ban by the end of 2014. In 2013, the American Medical Association (AMA) passed a resolution opposing the current lifetime ban as discriminatory and not based on sound science. Instead, the AMA supports new donation deferral policies that are based on an individuals level of risk. The blood banking community, including the American Red Cross and Americas Blood Centers, has also long-supported a change in policy. Reps. Quigley and Lee and Senators Warren and Baldwin have been bicameral leaders in the fight to change this outdated and discriminatory policy. This summer, along with 79 of their congressional colleagues, the members sent a letter to the FDA requesting that the FDA implement the one year deferral policy ""in a way that ensures that this is only a first step toward implementing a risk-based blood donation policy for MSM,"" and requests that the agency consider amending the draft guidance document to clarify the agency's policy regarding donations from transgender individuals, to clearly delink the establishment of the Transfusion Transmissible Infections Monitoring System from the change in the MSM blood donation policy, and to take action to reform and correct deficiencies in the Uniform Donor History Questionnaire.Last year in a letter to HHS Secretary Sylvia Burwell, the members, along with 75 of their colleagues, asked for additional information regarding the timeline for reversing the lifetime deferral policy, actions being taken to work towards a risk-based deferral policy, and plans for implementing the long-overdue blood safety surveillance system. Previously, they urged HHS Secretary Burwell to reevaluate the current discriminatory, inconsistent blood, organ and tissue donation policies for MSM. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://bost.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/find-out-more-about-2016-congressional-art-contest-here,Find out more about the 2016 Congressional Art Contest here!,2015-12-21,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,IL,Mike Bost,B001295,bost.house.gov,,,legacy,"I am writing to invite all high school students from Illinois 12th Congressional District to participate in the annual Congressional Art Competition. This year I am pleased to announce the theme for the 2016 Congressional Art Competition. It is, Southern Illinois: The Place I Call Home. As you know, the 12th Congressional District of Illinois is a unique part of America filled with memorable places, a diverse and hardworking workforce and families who take great pride in their heritage. I look forward to seeing this years submissions and learning why these young artists are proud to call Southern Illinois their home. Please watchthis videoto watch a preview of where the winning entry will be placed in the United States Capitol! Congressional Art Competition Rules and Regulations: All artwork must be two-dimensional. Each framed artwork can be no larger than 28 inches long, 28 inches wide and 4 inches deep. Artwork should not weigh more than 15 pounds. Accepted mediums for the two-dimensional artwork are as follows: Paintings: Oil, acrylics, watercolor, etc. Drawings: Colored pencil, pencil, ink, marker, pastels, charcoal Collages: Must be two dimensional Prints: Lithographs, silkscreen, block prints Mixed Media: Use of more than two mediums such as pencil, ink, watercolors, and computer-generated art photographs. Each entry must be original in concept, design and execution and may not violate U.S. copyright laws. Work must be in the original medium (not a scanned reproduction of a painting or drawing). A typed copy of the Student Information and Release Form signed by the teacher, a parent or guardian and the student must be securely attached to the back of the artwork to certify the originality of the piece. Please retain a copy for your records.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://lipinski.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=91&itemid=2876,Reps. Lipinski and King Secure Tax Benefit for Commuters Using Public Transportation,2015-12-21,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Daniel Lipinski,L000563,lipinski.house.gov,,,legacy,"Reps. Dan Lipinski (IL-3) and Peter Kings (NY-2) legislation that increases and permanently extends a tax benefit that helps people who use public transit has been signed into law as part of a larger tax package. This benefit helps more people use public transportation, eases congestion on the roads, supports the economy, and increases quality of life. The commuter tax benefit is essential to getting Americans to and from work each day, said Congressman Lipinski. Unfortunately, the benefit has not enjoyed permanent status and was reduced in 2014 from $235 to $130. Rep. Peter King and I have been pushing the Ways & Means committee all year to restore this benefit and make it permanent. Our most recent request was heeded and the benefit has been raised to provide parity with the parking benefit. With 2.7 million workers using the transit benefit to travel between home and work, Lipinski and King applaud Congress for taking action to ensure that riders of public transportation are provided with the same benefits as other commuters. The benefit encourages public transportation ridership, which helps get cars off the road, reduces overall emissions, and eliminates lost time and delays.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://lipinski.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=91&itemid=2874,Mount Greenwood Post Office Renamed in Honor of Fallen Chicago Firefighter Captain Herbie Johnson,2015-12-20,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Daniel Lipinski,L000563,lipinski.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Dan Lipinski (IL-3) was joined this afternoon by the family of Captain Herbie Johnson, Chicago 19thWard Alderman Matt OShea, and representatives from the Chicago Fire Department and U.S. Postal Service to officially rename Chicagos Mount Greenwood Post Office the Captain Herbert Johnson Memorial Post Office Building. The 32-year veteran of the Chicago Fire Department and resident of Chicagos Morgan Park community died on November 2, 2012, at the age of 54, while battling flames in the attic of a two-story home in Chicagos Englewood neighborhood. The name change was made possible through a bill authored by Lipinski. Herbie Johnson served heroically and selflessly, Rep. Lipinski said. Naming a postal facility honoring Captain Johnson is not just a tribute to him and his family, but to all first responders who bravely put their lives on the line every day, often for people they dont even know. I am proud and honored to have worked on this lasting tribute to someone who made the ultimate sacrifice protecting others from harm. An outgoing, caring, and dedicated public servant, Herbie Johnson was and is a hero. Captain Johnson learned public service from his family. Three of his brothers are Chicago police officers, a sister is a retired Chicago police officer, and another brother is a Chicago firefighter. He is survived by his wife of 28 years, Susan; two sons, Thomas and Michael; and daughter, Laurie. Over the years, Johnson served in almost every Chicago neighborhood as a firefighter. He taught over one thousand recruits as an instructor at the Robert J. Quinn Fire Academy. After the terrorist attacks on 9-11, he volunteered with the rescue efforts in New York City. In 2007, he received the states highest award for firefighters, the Illinois Medal of Honor, for rescuing several children from a burning apartment. Johnson was well liked throughout communities on Chicagos Southwest Side. Almost every year he drove the fire truck down Western Avenue for the South Side Irish St. Patricks Day Parade. He also was known to cook for various charity events and offer his time at a camp for young burn victims. Renaming this post office ensures that Captain Herbie Johnson, his family, and the sacrifices of all first responders will always be remembered and appreciated, and will hopefully serve as a powerful source of inspiration in the community, Lipinski stated.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://foster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/foster-votes-for-government-funding-package-that-will-grow-economy,"Foster Votes For Government Funding Package That Will Grow Economy, Invest in Education, Medicine, and Scientific R&D",2015-12-18,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Bill Foster,F000454,foster.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC Today, Congressman Bill Foster (IL-11) voted for the Omnibus Appropriations bill to fund the government through fiscal year 2016. While I am disappointed that House Republicans once again took our government to the brink, Im pleased that we were finally able to reach a reasonable, bipartisan agreement and avoid a government shutdown, said Foster. This bill includes increases in funding for several important priorities, including education, infrastructure, and medical research. I am especially pleased that this includes increased funding for scientific research and development. I would like to congratulate my colleagues negotiating the Omnibus for successfully defending the President's request for increased science funding rather than heeding Republican proposals for continued cuts to education and science, Foster added. However, the news isnt all good. The Tax Extenders bill passed by the House yesterday, a grab-bag of tax reductions without offsetting revenue, pushes trillions of dollars of new debt onto future generations and could require much deeper cuts in future years that will ultimately reduce and endanger research and education funding. Funding highlights from the bill include: Investing in Scientific Research and Development: Investing in scientific R&D is essential to maintaining our role as a world-leader in innovation. The bill includes funding for research at Argonne National lab, including: $1.8 billion in funding for the Office of Sciences Basic Energy Science account, $24.1 million for the Energy Innovation Hub for Batteries and Energy Storage, $20 million for Advanced Photon Source, and $621 million in funding for the Office of Sciences Advanced Scientific Computing Research account. The bill also supports research being conducted at Fermilab, including: $795 million in funding for the Office of Sciences High Energy Physics account, $26 million in funding for the Long Baseline Neutrino Experiment, and $40 million in funding for the Muon to Electron Experiment. Overall Education: The bill restores the $2.5 billion cut in education that the GOP had proposed and also makes critical additional investments of $1.4 billion above 2015, in such areas as Title I that serves 24 million at-risk students. Early Learning: Investing in Head Start produces results and this bill invests nearly $400 million more than the House GOP bill and nearly $600 million more than 2015 in this vital initiative. The bill also provides $250 million for Preschool Development Grants, assisting 18 states across the country. Medical Research: Medical research at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) has been underfunded for the last several years. This bill provides $32.1 billion for NIH, thats $900 million more than the House GOP bill and $2 billion more than 2015 for this life-saving research. Substance Abuse: More resources are needed to combat the growing substance abuse problems in our communities. The bill includes $3.8 billion for the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Agency (SAMHSA), which is $160 million more than 2015. Infrastructure: The crucial TIGER grants are being used across the country to repair infrastructure and contribute to economic growth. The House GOP bill had slashed TIGER grants by 80 percent, killing jobs, but this bill restores the funding to the 2015 level of $500 million. Law Enforcement: The bill provides $80 million for the Community Policing Initiative, including $22.5 million for body-worn cameras.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://gutierrez.house.gov/press-release/rep-guti%C3%A9rrez-today%E2%80%99s-omnibus-vote,Rep. Gutirrez on Puerto Rico and the Omnibus in English and Spanish,2015-12-18,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Luis Gutiérrez,G000535,gutierrez.house.gov,,,legacy,"Rep. Gutirrez on Puerto Rico andthe Omnibus in English and Spanish Rep. Gutirrez Sobre Puerto Rico yEl Presupuesto mnibus en Ingls y Espaol [ENGLISH BELOW] Washington, DC El viernes, el Congresista Luis V. Gutirrez (D-IL) habl con el Presidente de la Cmara de Representantes Paul Ryan (R-WI) y discutieron disposiciones para ayudar al pueblo de Puerto Rico a enfrentar la crisis financiera de la isla, tanto en el corto como a largo plazo. La siguiente es una declaracin del Representante Luis V. Gutirrez: Tuve una conversacin con el Presidente Ryan esta maana y me reiter que l se compromete a trabajar en un marco legislativo amplio de accin en el Ao Nuevo en el que los Republicanos tomarn todas las mejores ideas de Puerto Rico y considerarn de manera honesta y justa formas para reestructurar la deuda de Puerto Rico. Doy las gracias al Presidente de la Cmara por su atencin al pueblo de Puerto Rico y le deseo una Feliz Navidad con su familia. Sin embargo, no pude votar por el presupuesto general que fue considerado hoy, ya que no garantiz que los maestros estarn en las escuelas para los nios, que la polica estar en las calles protegiendo los barrios, y que los doctores y enfermeras estarn all para ayudar al pueblo de Puerto Rico. A pesar de las buenas intenciones expresadas por accin el prximo ao vot en contra del mnibus hoy y estoy seguro de que otros comprometidos con el pueblo de Puerto Rico hicieron lo mismo. El pueblo de Puerto Rico necesita gente que luche por ellos. Este voto es un momento revelador acerca quin est con ellos y quin no. Rep. Gutirrez representa al Cuarto Distrito de Illinois, es miembro del Comit Permanente Selecto de la Cmara sobre Inteligencia, es miembro del Comit Judicial y el Subcomit de Inmigracin y Seguridad Fronteriza, y el Subcomit de Crimen, Terrorismo, Seguridad Interna e Investigaciones. # # # Washington, DC On Friday, Rep. Luis V. Gutirrez (D-IL) spoke with Speaker of the House Paul Ryan (R-WI) and they discussed provisions to help the people of Puerto Rico cope with the Islands financial crisis both in the short- and long-run. The following is a statement by Rep. Luis V. Gutirrez: I had a conversation with Speaker Ryan this morning and he reiterated to me that he is committed to working on a comprehensive legislative framework for action in the New Year in which Republicans will take all the best ideas of Puerto Rico and consider in an honest and fair manner ways to restructure Puerto Ricos debt. I thank the Speaker for his attention to the people of Puerto Rico and wish him a Merry Christmas with his family. However, I did not vote for the omnibus budget today because it does not guarantee teachers will be in schools for the children, police will be on the streets protecting neighborhoods, and doctors and nurses will be there to help the people of Puerto Rico. Despite the good intentions expressed for action next year I will vote against the omnibus today and I expect others committed to the people of Puerto Rico will have done the same. The people of Puerto Rico need people to stand up for them. This vote is a telling moment about who stands with them and who does not. Rep. Gutirrez represents the Fourth District of Illinois, is a Member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, is a Member of the Judiciary Committee and the Subcommittee on Immigration and Border Security, and the Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, Homeland Security and Investigations.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://gutierrez.house.gov/press-release/rep-guti%C3%A9rrez-today%E2%80%99s-omnibus-vote-0,Rep. Gutirrez on Todays Omnibus Vote,2015-12-18,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Luis Gutiérrez,G000535,gutierrez.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC On Friday, Rep. Luis V. Gutirrez (D-IL) voted against passage of the omnibus government funding bill for 2016 saying it fell short of his expectations on a number of different fronts. He gave five specific reasons for his vote against the package. The following is a statement by Rep. Luis V. Gutirrez: I voted against the omnibus because the ban on crude oil exports should not have been lifted and only increases our reliance on fossil fuels. I believe in science and facts, so I take global warming seriously and think both parties in the U.S. Congress should as well. Despite intentions to enact policies to restructure Puerto Ricos debt next year, I voted against the omnibus because it does not guarantee schools, police, and hospitals will function for the U.S. citizens of Puerto Rico tomorrow and next week. It is a crisis that should have been addressed now, not next year. For 17 years we have prohibited research into gun violence, a self-defeating masquerade enforced by the gun lobby to keep our national head in the sand about the toll that guns take on society every year. It should have been stripped from this bill and was not. While I support the goal of sharing information between the private sector and the U.S. government to advance our national security goals, the cyber security act incorporated into the omnibus will fail to adequately provide safeguards to protect Americans private information and will lead to surveillance and searches without warrants. The H-2B visa provisions in the omnibus are piecemeal immigration changes that should not be legislated through the back door of an appropriations bill. Any immigration amendments should be debated in regular order with the rights of U.S. workers and the rights of immigrant workers considered simultaneously and given at least as much consideration as the desires of U.S. employers and this measure falls short. Rep. Gutirrez represents the Fourth District of Illinois, is a Member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, is a Member of the Judiciary Committee and the Subcommittee on Immigration and Border Security, and the Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, Homeland Security and Investigations. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://hultgren.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/hultgren-opposes-11-trillion-omnibus-spending-bill,Hultgren Opposes $1.1 Trillion Omnibus Spending Bill,2015-12-18,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,IL,Randy Hultgren,H001059,hultgren.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC U.S. Representative Randy Hultgren (IL-14) today released a statement after opposing the omnibus appropriations bill which increases spending from previous bills above $1 trillion: My constituents put their trust in me to cut the federal debt, spend money wisely and support legislation that creates opportunity for them to succeed. This bill fails to do that. While it includes some provisions I fought for and would like to see put into law, the positives dont outweigh the overwhelming long term negatives and the many important issues that were left unresolvedand I oppose it. On the positive side, I worked hard to get equitable transportation grant funding for suburban areas, urging Chairman Shuster to work to include it, and it was. It includes parts of my legislation, the Healthy Relationships Act of 2015, and doubles funding for the Sexual Risk Avoidance program, which has been a top priority of mine. It includes funding for the cleanup of contaminated sites, including the thorium contamination in West Chicago. It reforms the Visa Waiver Program to help prevent those who wish us harm from coming to our shores. However, we can get many of these policy provisions without spending well above previous spending caps for no discernible reason. Increasing the deficit by $57.6 billion without taking aim at our outrageously high debt is irresponsible. Our national debt cannot and should not take yet another hit. We shouldnt fund the rest of President Obamas agenda at the expense of future generations. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://kinzinger.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=399276,Kinzinger Statement on House Passage of the Consolidated Appropriations Act,2015-12-18,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,IL,Adam Kinzinger,K000378,kinzinger.house.gov,,,legacy,"Kinzinger Statement on House Passage of the Consolidated Appropriations Act f t # e Washington, December 18, 2015 Congressman Adam Kinzinger statement regarding House passage of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, also known as the Omnibus, which represents a bipartisan compromise that includes a significant number of wins for Republican priorities. share: f t WASHINGTON Congressman Adam Kinzinger (R-IL) released the following statement regarding House passage of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, also known as the Omnibus, which represents a bipartisan compromise that includes a significant number of wins for Republican priorities:The threat of large-scale terror attacks like Paris from happening on our shores is real. If we expect our military to be ready to confront this threat and do whatever is necessary to ensure we achieve our stated objective of eliminating ISIS once and for all, we must ensure they have the resources they need. Today the House passed a bill which does just that by fully funding our military, while also putting stricter security mechanisms in place to ensure terrorists arent able to exploit our countrys refugee process. Todays bill also includes several important provisions that will benefit all the people of Illinois, including lifting the ban on exporting oil and repealing the Country of Origin Labeling (COOL) requirements that would hurt our farmers, small businesses, and suppliers."" The Consolidated Appropriations Act: Repeals the antiquated oil export ban. This provision would end the 1975 ban on the export of American oil. Domestic energy production is booming in the United States, and lifting the ban will help create jobs, grow our economy, and promote greater exploration of our natural resources. Increases resources for our military. The arbitrary spending cuts in the sequester have depleted the resources our armed forces need to carry out their mission. This bill restores funding for our military to ensure our troops can confront todays challenges and defeat ISIL. Strengthens the Visa Waiver Program to protect the homeland. The Visa Waiver Program presents one of the most urgent threats to our homeland from radical Islamic terrorism. This agreement includes the House-passed bill to tighten the security requirements under the program. It would also deny visa waiver status to any individual who has traveled to certain terrorist hotspots, including Syria and Iraq, in the last five years. Prohibits new funding for Obamacare. The bill contains no new funding for Obamacare and continues to prevent a taxpayer bailout of Obamacares risk corridor program. Prevents the transfer of Guantanamo detainees to American soil. The bill prohibits funds from being used to transfer terrorist detainees from Guantanamo Bay to the United States, and prohibits the construction or acquisition of a facility in the U.S. to house detainees. Blocks EPA overreach. The bill contains no funding for new or expanded EPA programs, holding the agency to its lowest funding levels since 2008 and its lowest staffing levels since 1989. Reins in the IRS. The IRS continues to act with impunity against the interests of hardworking taxpayers. This bill freezes most IRS operations and maintains budget cuts necessary to ensure this agency roots out wasteful spending and redirects resources to serving the American people. In addition, the tax extenders package also includes a measure to prohibit the IRS from unfairly imposing the gift tax on contributions to non-profit groups, which have historically been exempt, to encourage donations to these important organizations. Maintains strong protections for life. This bill maintains important pro-life provisions, including the Hyde Amendment, and prohibits taxpayer funding for abortion. It also includes a new prohibition on gene editing and cuts funding for a program involved in abortion-related activities, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), by 7 percent. Honors our commitment to our veterans. This bill ensures our veterans receive their much-deserved health benefits, speeds up VA claims processing, prioritizes modernizing the VAs electronic health care record system, and tightens oversight of construction projects. Provides critical healthcare benefits for 9/11 first responders. More than 30,000 first responders continue to suffer from injuries or illnesses sustained during the 9/11 attacks. The bill contains a bipartisan measure to permanently reauthorize critical health care benefits for these brave men and womenand it does so in a fiscally responsible way. Repeals harmful labeling requirements on American meat. The bill repeals mandatory country-of-origin labeling (COOL) requirements, ensuring that our economy does not suffer more than $1 billion in trade penalties.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://quigley.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/quigley-statement-in-support-of-fiscal-year-2016-omnibus-appropriations,Quigley Statement in Support of Fiscal Year 2016 Omnibus Appropriations Act and Tax Extenders,2015-12-18,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Mike Quigley,Q000023,quigley.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Today, U.S. Representative Mike Quigley (IL-05) released the following statement in support of the Fiscal Year 2016 Omnibus Appropriations Act: I am proud to vote for the fiscal year 2016 omnibus, which provides much needed federal funding for my constituents in the Fifth District in the areas of transportation infrastructure, law enforcement and homeland security, environment, health and research, and much more. The bill contained a number of big wins including $50 million available through Core Capacity grants for the Chicago Transit Authoritys (CTA) modernization of the Red and Purple lines, $500 million available through Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER) grants for a variety of infrastructure projects in the Chicago area, and $187 million available through Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) grants for local communities to increase police officer hiring. By working together in a bipartisan way, Congress has averted a government shutdown, prevented the inclusion of numerous partisan policy riders, and avoided billions of dollars in harmful cuts in government services. Yesterday, I was proud to support the Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes Act, which makes permanent a number of vital tax credits and deductions, such as the research and development tax credit and the expanded child tax credit. These important tax provisions will put more money into the pockets of hard working, middle-class families and small businesses. Instead of having to worry each year if Congress will extend critical tax measures they have come to rely on, Americans will now have the clarity and certainty they need to plan for the future. For businesses, that means knowing they will have the capital to hire new workers and expand their operations. For families and individuals, that means knowing that they will have enough saved up to put their children through college or purchase a new home. Im pleased Congress was able to come together to pass these two crucial bills for the American people. Priority investments in the Fiscal Year 2016 Appropriations Act include the following: Renewable Energy:Provides a major boost to renewable energy by extending the wind Production Tax Credit for five years (through 2019), and extending the solar Investment Tax Credit for five years (through 2021), while phasing both credits down somewhat over time.Extending the solar tax credit is estimated to create 61,000 jobs in 2017 alone. It is also estimated that the wind industry will grow to over 100,000 jobs over four years with the renewed wind tax credit. Energy Efficiency and Clean Energy R&D:Provides an 8 percent increase over 2015 for R&D activities in the pursuit of new clean energy and energy efficiency technologies. Overall Education: The bill restores the $2.5 billion cut in education that the GOP had proposed and also makes critical additional investments of $1.4 billion above 2015, in such areas as Title I that serves 24 million at-risk students. Early Learning: Investing in Head Start produces results and this bill invests nearly $400 million more than the House GOP bill and nearly $600 million more than 2015 in this vital initiative.The bill also provides $250 million for Preschool Development Grants, assisting 18 states across the country. Medical Research:Medical research at NIH has been underfunded for the last several years.This bill provides $900 million more than the House GOP bill and $2 billion more than 2015 for this life-saving research. Infrastructure:The popular TIGER grants are being used across the country to repair infrastructure and contribute to economic growth. The House GOP bill had slashed TIGER grants by 80 percent, killing jobs, but this bill restores the funding to the 2015 level of $500 million. Law Enforcement: The bill provides $187 million for COPS hiring grants, $7 million above the 2015 level and $187 million above the House GOP bill, which had eliminated the hiring grants.The bill also provides $80 million for the Community Policing Initiative, including $22.5 million for body-worn cameras and $15 million for Byrne Criminal Justice Innovation grants, an increase over the House bill. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://rush.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rush-applauds-u-of-c-level-1-trauma-center-announcement,Rush Applauds U of C Level 1 Trauma Center Announcement,2015-12-18,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Bobby Rush,R000515,rush.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON U.S. Representative Bobby L. Rush (D-Ill.) released the following statement after the University of Chicago announced that it would add a Level 1 adult trauma care to its Hyde Park campus: I applaud University of Chicago Medical Center President Sharon O'Keefe, who has worked with me and kept me abreast of this important breakthrough for the residents of the south side of Chicago. This has been an important issue for me, in part because of the death of my son, Huey who had to be transported to Christ Hospital in Oak Lawn, although he was shot a half block from a southeast side Chicago hospital in 1999. Unfortunately, over 45 million Americans reside in Trauma Deserts and lack access to major trauma centers within the golden hour post injury when chances of survival are greatest (American Journal of Public Health Trauma Deserts). I am pleased to know that is now changing for my constituents in the 1st Congressional District. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://rush.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rush-statement-on-hr-2029-consolidated-appropriations-act-2016,"Rush Statement on H.R. 2029 -- Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2016",2015-12-18,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Bobby Rush,R000515,rush.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Today, U.S. Representative Bobby L. Rush (D-Ill.) joined 315 other Members of the House of Representatives in passing the omnibus bill that will fund the federal government until September 30, 2016. In October, Congress enacted a two-year budget deal that increased spending limits by $88 billion; a significant step away from the draconian cuts enacted by the Sequestration Act of 2014. This omnibus bill brings to fruition these increased spending limits that will impact the entire federal government. Key among these increases for the nation and the citizens of the 1st Congressional District are: Food Safety/Nutrition Programs $2.73 billion for the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which is $132 million more than the 2015 enacted level. $6.35 billion for Special Supplemental Nutrition for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), which is fully consistent with the current estimate of need. The Omnibus does not include proposed language preempting state laws on the labeling of genetically modified foods. Public Safety/Criminal Justice Programs $480 million for Violence Against Women Prevention and Prosecution programs which is $50 million more than the FY2015 level when adjusted for the inclusion of trafficking grants in this heading. $270.2 million for Juvenile Justice, which is $18.7 million more than the FY2015 level. Defense Spending $125 million for Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and Psychological Health research and $282 million for cancer research, $1.5 million more than FY2015. 1.3% pay raise for military personnel. $25 million for STARBASE, a STEM education program for fifth graders, the same as FY2015. Energy Programs $2.1 billion for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, which is $136 million more than the FY2015 enacted level. $206 million for activities to modernize the electricity grid, which is $59 million than the FY2015 enacted level. $3.4 billion for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), which is the same as the 2015 enacted level. Homeland Security $50 million in new funding to help state and local communities counter violent extremism and to help state and local law enforcement prepare for and respond to complex, coordinated terrorist attacks. Health Programs $2.8 billion for Child Care and Development Block Grants, which is $326 million more than the 2015 enacted level. $835 million for Seniors Nutrition programs, which is $20 million more than the 2015 enacted level. Education Programs $9.2 billion for Head Start, which is $570 million more than the 2015 enacted level. $22.5 billion for Pell Grants, which is the same as the 2015 enacted level. When combined with mandatory funding, these discretionary funds will enable the maximum grant to increase to an estimated $5,915, an increase of $140 in the 2016-2017 school year $11.9 billion for Special Education state grants (IDEA), which is $415 million more than the 2015 enacted level. $2.7 billion for WIOA Job Training Formula Grant program, which is $86 million more than the 2015 enacted level. $450 million for School Improvement Grants, which received $506 million in 2015. $250 million for Preschool Development Grants, which is the same as the FY2015 enacted level. $153 million for Math and Science Partnerships, which is the same as the FY2015 enacted level. Infrastructure Programs $500 million for National Infrastructure Investments (TIGER), which is equal to the 2015 enacted level. $50 million for Railroad Safety Grants, $25 million for rail infrastructure improvements and $25 million for positive train control grants. Housing Programs $17.7 billion for Section 8 Tenant Based Rental Assistance renewals, which is $195 million more than the 2015 enacted level and is sufficient to meet expected need based on updated estimates. $60 million for HUD-Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH), which is $15 million below the 2015 enacted level. $10.4 billion for Section 8 Project Based Rental Assistance renewals, which is $885 million more than the 2015 enacted level and is sufficient to meet expected need based on updated estimates. $4.5 billion for Public Housing Operating Fund, which is $60 million more than the 2015 enacted level. $125 million for Choice Neighborhoods Initiative, which is $45 million more than the 2015 enacted level. $3 billion for Community Development Block Grants (CDBG), which is equal to the 2015 enacted level $950 million for HOME Investment Partnerships, which is $50 million more than the 2015 enacted level. For more information on the bill see below: ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://bost.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/bost-votes-bipartisan-funding-bill,Bost Votes for Bipartisan Funding Bill,2015-12-18,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,IL,Mike Bost,B001295,bost.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today, Rep. Mike Bost (IL-12) voted for a year-end funding package that will keep the federal government operating for the next fiscal year. The bipartisan legislation which passed the House by an overwhelming 316-113 margin tightens restrictions on the Visa Waiver Program, funds national security priorities, extends vital tax relief, blocks EPA overreach, and lifts a 40-year-old ban on crude oil exports. While this legislation may not have included everything we wanted, it does make significant reforms that are win-wins for Southern Illinois, said Rep. Bost. Now that weve come together to provide long-term certainty for our military members, small businesses, and hardworking families in Southern Illinois, we can now redouble our efforts on the important initiatives that were not included in this bill and hopefully make progress there as well. 2016 Omnibus Appropriations Bill for Southern Illinois: Strengthening National Security: Strengthens national security by tightening requirements under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) and increases funds so that our troops have the resources they need to confront more radical and more complex enemies; and Ensures Scott Air Force Base and other military installations receive the funding they need to keep America safe. Spurring Economic Growth: Lifts the governments 40-year-old ban on crude oil exports which will encourage investment, spur innovation, at create jobs here at home; Permanently extends vital tax relief for Southern Illinoisans and allows for inflation in 2016; Prevents a taxpayer bailout of Obamacares risk corridors program and reduces Obamacare tax burdens on hardworking Americans; and Extends bonus depreciation treatment for property through 2019, which is extremely important for job creation and economic growth in the nations agricultural and manufacturing sectors. Reining In Executive Overreach: Stops the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) from suppressing free speech by interfering with the civic participation of non-profit organizations; and Rejects funding for new or expanded EPA programs that let top-down bureaucrats pick winners and losers and holds the agency to its lowest spending levels since 2008.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://rodneydavis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398887,Davis Votes to Fund Government and Strengthen National Defense,2015-12-18,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,IL,Rodney Davis,D000619,rodneydavis.house.gov,,,legacy,"U.S. Rep. Rodney Davis (R-Ill.) today released the following statement after the House passed a bill to fund the government through the next fiscal year and provide millions of Americans with tax relief:In an increasingly dangerous world, it is irresponsible for us to continue arbitrary sequester cuts which are depleting our military and failing to provide adequate resources for our armed forces to carry out their mission abroad. This bill strengthens our military and secures our visa waiver program to help prevent terrorists from entering our country. While I believe Congress must get out of the habit of passing massive, year-end spending bills and instead return to regular order where we can sensibly reduce spending, it is imperative that we adhere to our constitutional responsibility and fund the government. We cannot lose sight of the fact that Republicans in Congress have forced our government to be more fiscally responsible cutting $176 billion in discretionary spending since 2010 and making long-term, structural reforms to entitlement programs which drive our debt. This bill continues this commitment to reducing our nation's debt and puts us on track to save taxpayers $2 trillion in the coming years. Additionally, this agreement contains several priorities important to the 13th District including: Spending Reductions Continues the fiscal responsibility set under the Budget Control Act of 2011. Although this bill removes the arbitrary cuts made to our military under sequestration and instead provides the necessary funding to our troops, it continues to spend at levels set under the Budget Control Act by making significant reforms to mandatory spending. National Security Increases resources for our military. Restores necessary funding for our military to ensure our troops can confront today's challenges and defeat ISIL. Strengthens the Visa Waiver Program to protect the homeland. This agreement includes the House-passed bill (H.R. 158) to tighten the security requirements under the program and deny visa waiver status to any individual who has traveled to certain terrorist hotspots, including Syria, Iraq, and Iran, in the last five years. Additional funds for Boeing-made combat jets. The agreement provides additional funding for F/18 Super Hornets and E/A-18G Growlers built by Boeing in St. Louis area to aid in military defense. Prohibits transfer of Guantanamo Bay detainees. The agreement prohibits funds from being used to transfer terrorist detainees from Guantanamo Bay to the United States, and prohibits the construction or acquisition of a facility in the U.S. to house detainees. Work Colleges Helps students at Work Colleges like Blackburn College. The agreement includes H.R. 3409, the Work Colleges Tax Relief Act, legislation sponsored by Davis and Rep. Jason Smith (R-Mo.), to allow students to earn tax-free work based scholarships at Work Colleges. Obamacare Delays harmful Obamacare taxes. This agreement delays for two years the poorly designed Obamacare Cadillac taxa 40 percent excise tax on high cost employer health plans and the tax on medical devices which destroys jobs, hampers investment and innovation, and threatens the development of and access to medical technology that Americans relay on. Stops the Health Insurance Tax. The agreement puts a one-year moratorium on the Health Insurance Tax, which drives up health care premiums. Transportation Continues funding for TIGER grants critical for projects in Illinois. TIGER grants are competitive grants that have been used for major transportation projects in Illinois, including projects in Springfield, Normal, and Champaign in the 13th District. This agreement keeps in place $500 million for competitive grants used for infrastructure investments across the country. Eligible projects include highway, bridge, passenger and freight rail, transit and port projects. Increases funding and public-private partnership work on our waterways. This agreement includes more funding for the Army Corps to complete projects critical to improving the Mississippi and Illinois rivers. Additionally, it directs the Army Corp to start six new construction starts, and one must use the public-private partnership model, which is based on a provision authored by Davis the Water Resources Reform and Development Act of 2014. This agreement offers a cost effective and bipartisan solution to addressing our Nation's backlog of water infrastructure projects. Agriculture Repeals the Country of Origin Labeling (COOL) requirements. This agreement repeals the country-of-origin labeling rules for beef and pork. Back in June, the House overwhelmingly passed language to repeal mandatory COOL for products challenged by our trading partners. This provision puts us back in compliance with our World Trade Organization (WTO) obligations, avoid more than $1 billion retaliatory tariffs against U.S. exports from Canada and Mexico, and prevent damages to our relationships with two of our top trade partners. Makes critical tax credits for farmers permanent. This agreement makes Sect. 179, Small Business deduction for capital expenses, including farm equipment like tractors, permanent. This provision allows farmers and small businesses to write off capital purchases immediately. Provides more funding for vital agriculture research at land-grant universities such as the University of Illinois. Funding provided in this agreement to help stop and mitigate devastating crop diseases, improve food safety and water quality, and address issues related to drought, invasive species, and animal health. Energy Lifts the Oil Export Ban. The non-partisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO) estimates this will bring in an additional $1.4 billion over 10 years by incentivizing American energy producers to develop and export more of our nation's oil resources. Includes language seeks to stop an Obama Administration that would devastate Illinois coal and mining jobs across the country. This agreement requires the Office of Surface Mining (OSM) to work with states before finalizing the Stream Buffer Zone rule. This new rule would have a devastating impact on coal mining across this country. OSM's own analysis estimates that it will result in a loss of nearly 7,000, or nearly 9% of the more than 80,000 coal mining jobs in the United States. IRS Curtails IRS funding and authority. This agreement freezes most IRS operations and maintains budget cuts and prohibits the IRS from targeting groups based on their ideological beliefs. EPA Reins in the EPA. This agreement keeps the EPA at its lowest funding levels since 2008 and lowest staffing since 1989 and prevents funds for new or expanded regulatory programs. 9/11 First Responders Permanently reauthorizes the health care program for 9/11 first responders. This bill includes H.R. 1786, the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Reauthorization Act, which Davis is a cosponsor. Veterans Provides funding for the care our veterans need and deserve. This agreement provides funding to speed up VA claims processing, prioritizes modernizing the VA's electronic health care record system, and strengthens oversight of VA construction projects. Medical Research Increasing funding for life-saving medical research. This bill provides $32 billion for the National Institute for Health, which is an increase over FY 2015 funding levels",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-announces-illinois-priorities-included-in-omnibus-appropriations-bill-passed-by-congress,Durbin Announces Illinois Priorities Included in Omnibus Appropriations Bill Passed by Congress,2015-12-18,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.18.15 Durbin Announces Illinois Priorities Included in Omnibus Appropriations Bill Passed by Congress [WASHINGTON, D.C.] - U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced that the Consolidated and Further Appropriations Act of 2016 was passed by the Senate. The bill was passed by the House earlier today and will need to be signed by the President to become law. Thanks to the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2015, critical investments in the middle-class, our veterans, and the nations infrastructure and scientific research programs were part of todays Omnibus Appropriations bill, said Durbin. From important research at our national laboratories to highway construction projects throughout our state, this bill will create Illinois jobs and keep Americas economic growth on track. According to Durbin, the following projects, programs and provisions - listed with the cities, towns or regions they primarily impact - are beneficial to Illinois: Transportation, Housing and Urban Development Appropriations Department of Transportation TIGER Grant Program, Statewide / Nationwide: $500 million in nationwide funding for the Transportation Infrastructure Grants and Economic Reinvestment (TIGER) grant program allows local communities to apply directly to the DOT for funding of nationally significant transportation projects. This program is especially helpful to communities engaged in multimodal projects that improve connections to different transportation networks. Several projects have been funded under the TIGER grant program in Illinois including: The Normal Multimodal Transportation Center, the Peoria Warehouse District, the CREATE project and the Tri-City Port in Madison County Illinois. Amtrak, Statewide / Nationwide: $1.39 billion in nationwide funding for Amtrak. By providing adequate funding to Amtrak, more than 500 communities in 46 states across the country will continue to see improved passenger rail service. Highway Investments, Statewide / Nationwide: $42.4 billion in nationwide funding for the Federal Highway program. This funding is at the FAST Act fully authorized level. Federal funding comprises 80% of the funds included in the Illinois Department of Transportations multi-year highway improvement program. Transit Investments, Statewide / Nationwide: $9.3 billion in nationwide funding for formula funded accounts. This funding is at the FAST Act fully authorized level. Core Capacity Program, Chicago / Nationwide: $50 million for a competitive grant program Senator Durbin created as part of the Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act (MAP-21) which was signed into law in 2012. This program establishes a new category for capital investment projects by authorizing core capacity projects, like the planned rebuilding of the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA)s Red and Purple Lines. Airport Investments, Statewide / Nationwide: $3.35 billion in nationwide funding for capital investments grants at airports around the country. Federal aid funding supports airport improvement projects around the state of Illinois including the OHare Modernization Program at OHare International Airport, noise mitigation measures at Midway International Airport, runway improvements at Chicago / Rockford International Airport and Quad City International Airport and safety improvements at Peoria International Airport. FAA Emergency Response Review: $8.8 million in funding for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to implement the agencys review of security and emergency response times at air traffic control facilities following the fire incident at the Chicago Air Route Traffic Control Center in September 2014. Crude Transported by Rail, Nationwide: Funding is included to continue emergency preparedness grants for local communities; web-based training for first responders, and provides funding short line railroad safety. This legislation also requires the Transportation Secretary to finalize a rule on comprehensive oil spill response plans within a year. Rail Safety, Nationwide: $50 million for grants promoting rail safety which includes $25 million for Railroad Safety Infrastructure Improvement Grants; and $25 million for railroad safety technology grants (PTC). The legislation also increases highway-railroad grade crossings to $350 million, and funds a $6.5 million media campaign for highway-rail grade crossing safety. Department of Housing and Urban Development Homeless Assistance Grants, Statewide / Nationwide: $2.25 billion in nationwide funding to maintain services for those currently receiving homeless assistance and to promote communitywide commitment to the goal of ending homelessness. Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS, Statewide / Nationwide: $335 million in nationwide funding for the Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS (HOPWA) program which provides housing assistance and related supportive services to local units of government, States and non-profit organizations for projects that benefit low-income persons medically diagnosed with HIV/AIDS and their families. Community Development Block Grant, Statewide / Nationwide: $3 billion in nationwide funding for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program which provides annual grants to states and local governments to develop viable urban communities by providing decent housing and a suitable living environment and by expanding economic opportunities principally for low and moderate income persons. CDBG funding is an important tool for helping local governments to tackle serious challenges facing their communities. HOME Program, Statewide / Nationwide: $950 million in nationwide funding for the HOME program which helps to expand the supply of decent, affordable housing to low-income and very low-income families by providing grants to state and local governments to fund housing programs that meet local needs and priorities. HOME is the largest federal block grant to state and local governments designed exclusively to create affordable housing for low-income households. Energy and Water Appropriations Army Corps of Engineers Melvin Price Lock and Dam, Metro East: Report language was included to continue third party oversight of the Army Corps of Engineers while they work to fix the portions of the Wood River Levee that have been negatively impacted by a design deficiency in the construction of the Melvin Price Dam. Metro East Levees, Metro East: Report language was included calling for heightened cooperation by the Corps for the levee projects in Metro East, noting the non-Federal sponsors have raised sufficient cost-share. Wood River Levee, Wood River: $50,000 in funding to continue design and potentially construction of levee improvements to provide the authorized level of protection it provides during a flood. The project is located in the Mississippi River floodplain of Madison County, upstream of the city of East St. Louis. East St. Louis Levees, East St. Louis: $50,000 in funding for the design, construction and rehabilitation of levees that provide flood protection to 200,000 residents and over $1 billion in economic value. Calumet Harbor and River, Chicago: $4.506 million in funding for operations and maintenance of the Calumet Harbor breakwaters. Repairs to the navigation structures are critical for the safe towing of river barges between Calumet Harbor and three Indiana ports. An additional $300,000 was included for construction work at the Harbor. Carlyle Lake, Carlyle: $5.837 million in funding for operations and maintenance at Carlyle Lake, the largest man-made lake in Illinois, with over 26,000 acres of water and 11,000 acres of public land. Funding is needed to provide flood control, water quality control, and water supply to nearby communities as well as recreation and fish and wildlife conservation. The lake was critical to maintaining water levels on the Mississippi River during recent historic low water events. This project is situated in Clinton, Fayette, Bond, and Marion Counties. Chicago Harbor, Chicago: $3.735 million in funding for operation and maintenance of the Chicago Lock, used by commercial towboat and deep draft barges and well as government, passenger and recreational vessels. Chicago Ship and Sanitary Canal Aquatic Nuisance Species Barrier System, Chicago: $28 million in funding to continue operation of the barrier system to eliminate invasive aquatic nuisance species such as the Asian carp and to continue construction of permanent barriers. Farm Creek Reservoirs, East Peoria: $296,000 in funding for continued operation of two dry reservoirs along tributary streams of the Illinois River. This system provides necessary flood control for East Peoria. Illinois River Basin Restoration, Peoria: $400,000 in funding to continue planning and construction to restore and conserve the ecological integrity of the Illinois River, including the reduction of sediment delivery, restoring side channels and backwaters, restoring floodplain riparian and aquatic habitat and function, and improving water and sediment quality. Interbasin Control of Great Lakes-Mississippi River Aquatic Nuisance Species, Chicago: $500,000 in funding to continue a study, including consultations with appropriate Federal, State, local and non-governmental agencies, on the range of options and technologies to prevent the inter-basin transfer of aquatic nuisance species. Kaskaskia River Basin, Central Illinois: $4.148 million for restoring and preserving the natural watershed. This project serves navigation, recreation, fish and wildlife and habitat restoration functions. Lake Shelbyville, Shelbyville: $6.208 million in funding to provide dam maintenance, flood control, water supply, recreation, conservation of fish and wildlife, and water quality control and augment navigation flows downstream on the Kaskaskia River. McCook and Thornton Reservoirs, Chicago: $9 million in funding for continued construction of the McCook Reservoir in the Chicago Underflow Plan. This project benefits the City of Chicago and 36 suburban communities by reducing untreated sewage back flow into Lake Michigan and reducing basement flooding by protecting nearly 150,000 structures. Rend Lake, Rend Lake: $5.606 million in funding to provide flood control, water supply, recreation, conservation of fish and wildlife, and area redevelopment. This project is located near Benton, Illinois, in Franklin and Jefferson Counties. Upper Mississippi River Restoration, Western Illinois: $19.787 million in funding for continued ecosystem restoration along the Upper Mississippi River. Department of Energy Basic Energy Science, Argonne / Nationwide: $1.8 billion in funding for the Office of Sciences Basic Energy Science account which is Argonne National Laboratorys largest single-source funding source, and accounts for approximately 40 percent of the labs funding; Energy Innovation Hub for Batteries and Energy Storage, Argonne: $24.1 million for the Energy Innovation Hub for Batteries and Energy Storage. In November 2012, Argonne National Laboratory was selected to receive an award of up to $120 million over five years to create the Hub, also known as the Joint Center for Energy Storage Research (JCESR), which is a partnership including University of Chicago, the University of Illinois, the City of Chicago, and private firms and townships in Illinois. The project will establish Illinois as a leader in a multi-billion dollar, developing industry that has potential to stimulate substantial employment and economic growth. Advanced Photon Source Upgrade, Argonne / Nationwide: $20 million for Advanced Photon Source, a sophisticated x-ray beam that companies, universities, and other research institutions use to conduct break-through research to discover new energy materials, pharmaceuticals, and security infrastructure and transportation. Advanced Scientific Computing Research, Argonne / Nationwide: $621 million in funding for the Office of Sciences Advanced Scientific Computing Research account, which supports Argonnes National Laboratorys supercomputer initiatives including $77 million for the operations of Argonnes Leadership Computing Facility. High Energy Physics, Fermilab / Nationwide: $795 million in funding for the Office of Sciences High Energy Physics account which is the primary source of funding for Fermilab, and accounts for approximately 90 percent of the labs funding; Long Baseline Neutrino Experiment, Fermilab / Nationwide: $26 million in funding is included for the Long Baseline Neutrino Experiment, a primary focus at Fermilab.Research in neutrinos represents the next frontier of particle physics. The Muon to Electron Experiment, Fermilab / Nationwide: $40 million in funding is included for the Muon to Electron Experiment which could result in the development of a revolutionary technology in the field. Uranium & Thorium Cleanup, West Chicago: $32.9 million for the Department of Energys Title X program, which pays contractors to clean up legacy defense sites across the country, including the site in West Chicago. The Committee has also included language that directs the Department of Energy to provide funding for the program in future budgets. Homeland Security Appropriations Department of Homeland Security AFG & SAFER Grant Programs, Nationwide: $690 million in nationwide funding for the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program and the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) Program. The AFG Program seeks to strengthen the nations overall level of preparedness and ability to respond to fire and fire related hazards.Since 2001, the AFG has provided approximately $5.25 billion in federal funding to first-responder organizations across the country to help purchase response equipment, personal protective equipment, training, and vehicles. The SAFER program seeks to enhance a departments ability to maintain 24-hour staffing and ensures that the community has adequate protection from fire and fire-related hazards. Interior Appropriations Department of the Interior Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI), Great Lakes Region: $300 million in funding for the GLRI to support the inter-agency program to address issues affecting the Great Lakes, including invasive species and pollution. The bill also authorizes the GLRI for one year. Pullman National Monument, Chicago: $2.4 billion in funding for the National Park Service, including funding to support the newly designated Pullman National Monument in Chicago, Illinois and Honouliuli National Monument in Honolulu, Hawaii. Sewage Dumping in the Great Lakes, Great Lakes Region: Language in the legislation requires all water treatment systems with combined sewer overflow events that flow into the Great Lakes to report such flows into the surrounding states. The language also requires the offending system to work with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to find ways to prevent future overflows from occurring. In 2013, Durbin cosponsored legislation the Great Lakes Water Protection Act that would end sewage dumping in the Great Lakes by 2033. Aquatic Habitat and Species Conservation, Nationwide: $74.9 million in funding to encourage habitat and species conservation and restoration, as well as combat the spread of invasive species such as Asian carp and zebra mussels. This amount includes $7.9 million for Asian carp activities. Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Department of the Army Army Family Housing, Rock Island Arsenal: $29 million to construct 38 single family housing units at Rock Island Arsenal. These units will replace family housing units that have exceeded their useful and economic life. Without these new homes, service members relocating to the Arsenal would not be able to find adequate, affordable units within the housing market area. Army National Guard Firing Range, Sparta, Illinois: $1.9 million for a new firing range for the Illinois National Guard. The Guard currently lacks a facility for this type of small arms training in south central Illinois. Department of Veterans Affairs Medical & Prosthetic Research, Nationwide: $630.7 million investment in the Veterans Affairs Medical and Prosthetic research program which will help improve quality of life for veterans and quality of care. Senator Durbin included an amendment in the legislation which provided an increase in this funding to represent 5% plus inflation over last years levels. The increase is consistent with the goals set forward by Senator Durbins American Cures Act, which he introduced in January 2015. That legislation calls for consistent investment5% plus inflationover 10 years for NIH, CDC, VAs Medical and Prosthetic Research Program, and Defense Health Programs Caregivers Initiative, Nationwide: The legislation includes language to ensure there is a dedicated Caregivers coordinator at each VA health facility; encourage the VA to examine expansion of the program beyond the post-9/11 population; encourage the VA to engage with the Department of Defense about its caregivers program, to share best practices; and direct the VA to survey all VA caregivers to identify the number possession outstanding student loan debt and develop a plan to monitor the issue, including future data collection. Funding will be allocated through the legislation to expand benefits and services for caregivers to include health care and mental health services, training adapted to the veterans individual care needs, and a direct stipend payment. The Family Caregiver Program was created by a Durbin-authored provision in the Caregivers and Veterans Omnibus Health Services Act of 2009. These initiatives are leading to retention of better trained and more qualified caregivers, thus enhancing long-term care provided to veterans. Orthotics & Prosthetics Workforce Improve, Nationwide: Report language is included to require the VA to explore cost-effective opportunities to grow the orthotics and prosthetics workforce pipeline and report back to the Senate and House Appropriations Committees within 180-days of enactment.The language follows Durbin-authored legislation to enhance research in best practices and offer competitive grant funding to colleges and universities offering degree programs to train specialists in orthotic and prosthetic care. Reducing the Disability Claims Backlog, Nationwide: $2.7 billion in funding to the Veterans Benefits Administration which is a full funding of the agencys operations that include initiatives to address the backlog of disability claims such as the move from a paper-based claims process to a digital environment. This funding level represents $166 million more than fiscal year 2015 funding. Whistleblower Protections, Nationwide:The bill would close a loophole that harms VA personnel who have experienced whistleblower retaliation in the form of negative personnel evaluation, giving the U.S. Office of Special Counsel (OSC) the power to investigate these reviews as part of the potential retaliatory personnel actions that OSC currently has authority over. The bill would also require the VA to inform all employees of their rights with respect to reporting wrongdoings and whistleblower protections. Labor, Health and Human Services and Education Appropriations Department of Health and Human Services Opioid Abuse Prevention, Nationwide: $3.8 billion for Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) which includes $47 million directed to addressing the burgeoning epidemic of prescription drug and heroin overdose: $25 million an increase of $13 million for medication assisted treatment in high-risk states, $12 million for naloxone distribution in 10 states; and $10 million for prevention efforts in up to 20 states that will build awareness of prescription drugs. Childrens Hospitals Graduate Medical Education, Chicago / Nationwide: $295 million (an increase in $30 million over FY2015) in nationwide funding to childrens hospitals for residency programs that train the pediatric workforce. Childrens Memorial Hospital in Chicago, Illinois has previously benefitted from this program. Community Health Centers, Statewide / Nationwide: $5.1 billion for Community Health Centers nationwide. Department of Education Impact Aid, North Chicago / Nationwide: $1.3 billion in nationwide funding for Impact Aid, including $66 million for Federal property payments. This program provides assistance to school districts that have lost tax revenue due to tax-exempt federal properties or that experience increased expenditures due to the enrollment of federally connected children, such as those living on military installations. This funding is critical for school districts in Illinois such as the North Shore School District who enroll hundreds of children from nearby military installations. Pell Grant, Statewide / Nationwide: With funding under the bill, the maximum Pell grant for 2015-2016 is estimated to be $5,915. That is an increase of more than $100 over the previous year. Pell Grants help keep college within reach for millions of low income students each year, including nearly 400,000 Illinois students in 2011-12. Agriculture Appropriations Department of Agriculture Plant Health, Tree and Wood Pests, Statewide / Nationwide: $54 million to help identify and contain wood-boring pests threatening tree health across the country, 19 of which have been detected in the past decade, including the Emerald Ash Borer. Included in the funding are resources to identify and contain Emerald Ash Borer infestations and to increase public awareness of the threat in Illinois and 14 other states. Food and Drug Administration Food Safety Modernization Act Implementation, Nationwide: $104.5 million in funding for implementation of the Food Safety Modernization Act. This funding increase will allow FDA to improve compliance and inspection programs and allow FDA to invest in tools to significantly cut the time it takes to respond to complex food safety issues. Senator Durbins Food Safety Modernization Act was first introduced in 2008 and the bill was signed into law in January 2011. When the bill was introduced, 48 million Americans suffer from preventable foodborne illness each year. FDA is still in the process of implementing the improved requirements included in the bill. Financial Services and General Government Appropriations Consumer Product Safety Commission, Nationwide: $125 million in nationwide funding for the nations leading consumer protection watchdog in its work to protect the public from unreasonable risks of serious injury or death from thousands of types of consumer products. The bill also encourages the limitation and reduction of flame retardant chemicals. In 2012, the Commission released a study that indicates that flame retardant chemicals, as currently used in upholstered furniture foam, have no practical impact on flammability. In July 2012, Durbin chaired a hearing on the safety and effectiveness of flame retardant chemicals, following a Chicago Tribune four-part investigative report on flame retardant chemicals and furniture flammability standards which explored the role of Big Tobacco and their attempt to shift the focus from cigarettes as the cause of fire deaths. Chemical companies, which sought to preserve a lucrative market for their products, teamed with the tobacco industry and state fire marshals to steer policymakers away from developing fire-safe cigarette standards and toward rules requiring furniture flammability standards. Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFI), Nationwide: $233.5 million for the CDFI to promote access to capital and local economic growth in urban and rural low-income communities by providing seed money for community development projects in communities unserved or underserved by traditional financial institutions. Of this funding, $19 million was provided for the Bank Enterprise Award program, which provides a financial incentive to insured depository institutions to undertake community development financing activities. Commerce, Justice and Science Appropriations Department of Justice Thomson Prison, Quad Cities: Includes the full amount of capital and operating needs to continue the opening of the prison. The legislation gives the Bureau of Prisons $6.95 billion for salaries and expenses which is the funding necessary to allocate roughly $83 million requested for Thomson Prison. Preventing Gun Violence, Chicago / Statewide / Nationwide: $1.1 billion in nationwide funding to enhance efforts to protect our communities from gun violence. This includes $840 million, an increase of $42 million, for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives to enforce gun laws, trace crime guns, investigate illegal gun trafficking and keep schools safe. The bill also provides $114 million to the Federal Bureau of Investigation to run instant criminal background checks for gun purchases; provides $73 million in grants for states to improve submission of criminal and mental health records to the background check database; and provides $75 million for a comprehensive school safety initiative to help schools conduct safety assessments. Addressing the Heroin Crisis, Statewide / Nationwide: $7 million for a program within the Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) office for competitive grants to anti-heroin task forces. Second Chance Act Prisoner Reentry Programs, Chicago / Statewide / Nationwide: $68 million for prisoner reentry programs pursuant to the Second Chance Act of 2007, in addition to$27.5 million for criminal justice reform and recidivism reduction efforts. Prosecutor and Public Defender Student Loan Repayment, Nationwide: $2 million in funding to the John R. Justice student loan repayment program. The funding will be used to help prosecutor and public defender offices retain and attract talented attorneys by providing student loan repayment assistance to state and federal public defenders and state prosecutors who agree to remain in their positions for at least three years. The program was created by legislation that Durbin first introduced in 2003 and that was passed into law as part of the Higher Education Opportunity Act of 2008. Department of Commerce Economic Development Assistance Program, Nationwide: $222 million in nationwide funding for the Economic Development Assistance Program which provides crucial grants to states, localities, non-profit organizations and others to create jobs in economically challenged areas. The Economic Development Administration has long invested in a wide variety of construction and non-construction economic development tools from revolving loan funds to public infrastructure Defense Appropriations Department of Defense Humvee Ambulances, Quad Cities: $60 million for the production of Humvee ambulances at Rock Island Arsenal. Industrial Mobilization Capacity (IMC), Quad Cities: $145 million in funding for Industrial Mobilization Capacity (IMC) to help arsenals keep their work rates competitive. This funding helps Rock Island Arsenal and other arsenals compete more effectively for public-private partnerships and other business to help sustain capacity, cost efficiency and technical competence in peacetime, while preserving the ability to provide an effective and timely response to mobilizations, national defense contingency situations and other emergent requirements.Durbin included a similar provision in the FY14 & FY15 Department of Defense Appropriations Bills, which were both funded in the final legislation. Maintaining a Minimum Workload, Quad Cities: The legislation requires the Secretary of the Army to maintain a minimum workload at Rock Island Arsenal (and the arsenals in New York and Arkansas). The legislation also directs the Secretary of Defense to review opportunities within other services and the Defense Logistics Agency to maximize workloads at arsenals. Production of F/A-18s & E/A-18Gs, St. Louis Region: $1.01 billion in funding for the production of five F/A-18s ($350million) and seven E/A-18Gs ($660 million). The Navy has identified a need for additional F/A-18s and E/A-18Gs as part of its FY16 unfunded requests list, as well as an ongoing need for electronic attack capability. Production of F/A-18s and E/A-18Gs is based at Boeings St. Louis plant, which employs thousands of workers, including 2,000 from Illinois. In addition, the bill includes an additional $8 million for F-18 generator upgrades. Lovell Federal Health Care Center, North Chicago: $121 million to extend the DOD-VA pilot program at Lovell Federal Health Care Center for a fifth year. Since 1999, Durbin has played a major role in the development and implementation of the Lovell Federal Health Care Center, which serves as an integrated healthcare facility for both servicemembers and veterans in the North Chicago region. Illinois National Guard, Peoria: $33.2 million to accelerate nationwide engine upgrades and enhancements to C-130H aircraft, eight of which are flown by the 182nd Air National Guard wing based in Peoria, Illinois. These upgrades will reduce the need for repairs to the C-130H aircraft, and will also make them more powerful and energy efficient. Illinois National Guard, Rantoul: $5.207 million in funding for the National Guard Youth ChalleNGe Program. ChalleNGe academics including Lincoln's ChalleNGe Academy in Rantoul, Illinois give at-risk youths who have dropped out of high school a second chance at completing their education using a military model. Since its founding in 1993, 35 ChalleNGe academies across the country have graduated more than 120,000 participants. Ammunition Production, East Alton / Marion: The bill maintains funding for numerous ammunition lines including lines produced at Olin Brass in East Alton, Illinois and General Dynamics in Marion, Illinois which are critical to the safety of our troops overseas. Army Corps of Engineers, Champaign: The bill supports President Obamas budget request for the Army Corps of Engineers Research Center in Champaign, Illinois. The Construction Engineering Research Laboratory (CERL) concentrates on improving the design and effectiveness of Army installations and ranges, making them more resilient, efficient and affordable. CERL research and products also improve environmental sustainability while contributing to other Army Corps Research Center priorities. Orthotics and Prosthetics Outcomes Research, Nationwide: $10 million in funding for Department of Defense research into orthotics and prosthetics. Just as investing in basic and advanced science has paid great dividends, similar investments in medical research and battlefield medicine are saving more lives while improving care options and quality of life after injuries. This knowledge helps better inform treatment for everyone. Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-commends-president-for-commuting-sentences-of-95-nonviolent-drug-offenders,Durbin Commends President for Commuting Sentences of 95 Nonviolent Drug Offenders,2015-12-18,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.18.15 Durbin Commends President for Commuting Sentences of 95 Nonviolent Drug Offenders Durbin advocated for Illinois Alton Mills, among those to be released under new Department of Justice initiative [WASHINGTON, D.C.] U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL), sponsor of the Fair Sentencing Act and the Sentencing Reform and Corrections Act, commended President Obama today for commuting the sentences of 95 Americans, including Alton Mills and eight other Illinoisans. After learning of Mr. Mills story and meeting with his family and attorney, Durbin wrote President Obama in support of Mr. Mills petition for commutation of his sentence earlier this month. Mr. Mills has served 22 years of a mandatory life sentence for a nonviolent drug offense. An overlooked casualty in our war on drugs are the men and women who have been convicted under disproportionately harsh mandatory minimum sentencing laws. These people, like Illinoisan Alton Mills, are victims of some of the most egregious inequities in our criminal justice system, Durbin said. I am very glad to see President Obama take action today to give 95 Americans a second chance. As we move forward with criminal justice reform in Congress, I urge the President to continue using the clemency process to improve the fairness of our criminal justice system. Mr. Mills was convicted in 1994 for acting as a street-level courier in a crack cocaine conspiracy. At his sentencing, U.S. District Court Judge Marvin Aspen said if I were free to sentence [Mr. Mills] it would be something other than life. Like Durbin, Judge Aspen also wrote a letter supporting commutation of Mr. Mills sentence. While Congress must take action to reform our drug sentencing laws, Durbin has called on President Obama to use his pardon power to help those who are still serving lengthy sentences that are now widely recognized as unjust. In April, the Department of Justice announced a new Clemency Initiative for pardon petitioners who meet certain criteria, including non-violent low-level offenders who would likely receive a lower sentence if convicted of the same offense today.There has been a reduction in recent years in the number of Presidential pardons and commutations, despite an increase in requests that many attribute to lengthier federal drug sentences. Durbin has long championed efforts to address inequalities in the criminal justice system and mandatory minimum sentencing. In 2010, President Obama signed into law Durbins Fair Sentencing Act. The bipartisan bill to curtail the sentencing disparity between crack and powder cocaine marked the first time Congress has repealed a mandatory minimum since the Nixon administration. Durbin has since sponsored both the Smarter Sentencing Act and the Sentencing Reform and Corrections Act. The Sentencing Reform and Corrections Act, which was approved by the Senate Judiciary Committee earlier this year, grants judges greater sentencing flexibility for certain low-level drug offenders and establishes recidivism reduction programs, while targeting violent criminals. Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-joins-bipartisan-coalition-of-senators-hailing-passage-of-historic-chemical-safety-law,Durbin Joins Bipartisan Coalition of Senators Hailing Passage of Historic Chemical Safety Law,2015-12-18,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.18.15 Durbin Joins Bipartisan Coalition of Senators Hailing Passage of Historic Chemical Safety Law [WASHINGTON, D.C.] U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) today joined a bipartisan coalition of senators, led by U.S. Sens. Tom Udall (D-NM) and David Vitter (R-LA), in celebrating the Senate's historic passage of the Frank R. Lautenberg Chemical Safety for the 21st Century Act, a chemical safety reform bill to overhaul the nation's broken Toxic Substances Control Act of 1976 (TSCA). The bill passed the Senate last night by a unanimous voice vote and now has 61 bipartisan cosponsors. The 39-year-old TSCA is the last of the major environmental laws passed in the 1960s and '70s that has not yet been modernized. The bill must now be reconciled with the U.S. House of Representatives-passed legislation on the same issue. Passage of the bill was thanks to hard work from many senators. At a news conference this morning, Udall and Vitter thanked several partners who have worked hard to make the bill stronger and more bipartisan: Environment and Public Works Committee Chairman James Inhofe (R-Okla.) and Senators Tom Carper (D-DE), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Chris Coons (D-DE), Edward J. Markey (D-MA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI). Durbin said: I was drawn to this issue following a Chicago Tribune series in 2012 that revealed that flame retardant chemicals added to furniture and other household goods are useless and toxic for American families. I found, in talking with my colleagues, that there was very little we could do about it. For generations, a lot of Americans have been exposed to unsafe chemicals without knowing it and with no one to protect them. With the passage of this bill, we will change that. Udall said: ""After years of negotiations, collaboration and working with stakeholders across the country, we have made tremendous progress toward historic, bipartisan environmental reform. I want to thank Senator Vitter and our partners in the Senate who rolled up their sleeves and worked to make this day possible: Chairman Inhofe and Senator Carper; Senators Booker, Merkley and Whitehouse; and Senators Durbin and Markey; and Senator Coons. Everyone put partisanship aside in order to address the substance and make this bill better. As many as 1,500 new chemicals come on the market each year, but there is no cop on the beat making sure they're safe for consumers or our environment. This bill will require the EPA to test all of them, make sure theyre safe and put the focus where it ought to be on how these chemicals affect the most vulnerable in New Mexico and across the country. TSCA has been broken from the beginning. Thirty-nine years is too long to go without strong protections for Americans' health and safety. I look forward to working with members of the House on a final product that the president will sign so we can finally protect our children from dangerous chemicals."" Vitter said: Senator Tom Udall and I, along with our Democrat and Republican colleagues and countless stakeholders, have spent years at the negotiating table to arrive at the best possible compromise to reform our nations outdated chemical legislation and allow our industries to remain innovative leaders. Our work is not yet done, however. Im eager to continue the legislative process with our House colleagues early next year so that we can sign chemical safety reform into law. The bill is available HERE and a detailed summary is available HERE. The bill is named after the late Sen. Frank Lautenberg (D-N.J.), who worked for many years to reform the broken and outdated TSCA. It overhauls the law by requiring for the first time that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) review new and existing chemicals and regulate them based on the impact they would have on those individuals most at risk: infants, pregnant women, the elderly and chemical industry workers. The bill ensures chemical companies can no longer hide information on their products from public view, and it requires chemical companies to contribute significantly to the cost of regulation and ensure the EPA has the funds to do its job. In the 39 years since TSCA was enacted, the EPA has been able to restrict just five chemicals, and it has prevented only four chemicals from going to market out of the more than 23,000 new chemicals manufactured since 1976. Inhofe said: The Senate passage of the Frank R. Lautenberg Chemical Safety for the 21st Century Act is a historic, bipartisan victory that will protect both families and the environment as well as providing a workable regulatory framework for American businesses. This legislation would not have been possible without Bonnie Lautenberg and her unwavering commitment to her late husbands legacy. With the Senate unanimously agreeing to send this bill to the House, I look forward to working with my friends across the capitol to get meaningful TSCA reform to the Presidents desk and signed into law. Carper said: Bipartisanship is hard to come by in the Senate these days, especially on environmental issues, this is a historic step toward reforming our toxics laws to better serve both the public and businesses in Delaware and around the country. After too many years of failure, both sides of the aisle have worked together to compromise on policy, without ever compromising their principles. We all owe sincere thanks to Senator Udall for his leadership, determination, and tireless efforts alongside Senator Vitter and Senator Inhofe to produce this bipartisan piece of legislation. Together weve made it to first and goal, and I look forward to reconciling this bill with the House version and getting it across the finish line. Booker said: Frank Lautenberg would be proud of the Senates unanimous vote to approve the bill that bears his name, which brings us a step closer to the end of a long journey he started to strengthen the laws that help keep Americans safe from toxic chemicals. These changes are already decades overdue. The Senate and House need to now work together to quickly get this bill to the Presidents desk to be signed into law. Coons said: Since being elected to the Senate in 2010, I have heard from countless Delawareans researchers, nurses, parents, business owners about how ineffective the 1976 Toxic Substances Control Act is today, and how we can and must do better. Delaware is home to some of Americas leading chemical manufacturers, so my constituents and I see firsthand the detrimental impact of this outdated law on both communities and businesses. The reforms in this bill give critical authority to the Environmental Protection Agency to police dangerous chemicals, while providing regulatory certainty for the businesses whose innovations we depend on every day. Im particularly pleased that the bill includes a section that reflects my Sustainable Chemistry R&D Act, which will encourage the development and commercialization of new chemicals, materials, and processes that are better for the environment. Markey said: For too long, TSCA has been a statute that simply does not work and EPAs authority to regulate dangerous chemicals has been broken. The legislation to reform and update TSCA that unanimously passed the Senate represents the kind of bipartisan commitment, married with compromise, that yields important, long-lasting policy. Enormous credit is owed to the tremendous efforts made by Senators Udall, Vitter, and Inhofe and their staffs. I thank Senator Durbin for his partnership to strengthen this legislation and Senators Merkley, Whitehouse and Booker who worked to improve this bill. I stand ready to roll up my sleeves to work with the House to turn this bill into law and protect the health and safety of the American people. Merkley said: The passage of this bill is an enormous milestone on the path toward a safer, healthier future for our families. Its totally unacceptable that in the most powerful country on earth, our federal government has been powerless to protect us from incredibly damaging toxic chemicals in everyday products. Now, were taking action to change that. I was pleased to work with a bipartisan coalition to pass this bill in the Senate, and I look forward to working with our colleagues in the House to get a bill signed into law. Whitehouse said: Our main toxic chemicals law hasnt done nearly enough to protect Americans health and our environment. Its stuck states like Rhode Island with the difficult job of protecting the public from complicated chemicals and saddled businesses with a confusing patchwork of rules and regulations. This bill will provide consumers with confidence that the products they use are safe. It will also give more certainty to businesses. Im proud of the work weve done to craft this legislation and glad to see it advance.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://foster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/foster-votes-against-622-billion-in-new-government-debt,Foster Votes Against $622 Billion In New Government Debt,2015-12-17,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Bill Foster,F000454,foster.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC Today, Congressman Bill Foster (IL-11) voted against the Tax Extender package, an unfunded collection of tax breaks that would increase the deficit by $622 billion over the next ten years and an estimated $2 trillion over the next 20 years. The tax giveaways that so-called fiscal conservative Republicans insisted on inserting into this package would add $622 billion to our national debt over the next ten years, said Foster. While this bill contains positive elements such as making the R&D tax credit permanent, the fact that it is totally unpaid for means that we are borrowing from foreign countries to pay off special interests today, while forcing future tax increases or benefit cuts onto our children. We need responsible, comprehensive tax reform that will build on the economic progress we have made in the last seven years, but unfortunately, this isnt it. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://gutierrez.house.gov/press-release/rep-guti%C3%A9rrez-puerto-rico-english-and-spanish,Rep. Gutirrez on Puerto Rico in English and Spanish,2015-12-17,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Luis Gutiérrez,G000535,gutierrez.house.gov,,,legacy,"VIDEO: https://youtu.be/XfCRnLA_cUw Washington, DC On Thursday, Rep. Luis V. Gutirrez delivered brief remarks in English and Spanish on the floor of the House of Representatives on Puerto Rico and why he plans to vote against the omnibus government spending bill. Washington, DC El jueves, El Congresista Luis Gutirrez dio un breve discurso en ingls y en espaol desde la Cmara de Representantes sobre Puerto Rico y porque planea votar en contra del presupuesto mnibus del gobierno. Rep. Luis V. Gutirrez: Mr. Speaker: I cannot vote for the omnibus deal because it does not give the people of Puerto Rico some hope for a better future. The omnibus does not provide a path forward amid budget cuts, cuts in services, growing unemployment and the greedy banks and bond holders who demand more and more even as the people of Puerto Rico have less and less. Puerto Rico is a colony of the United States. Its sovereignty rests here in the Congress of the United States and we will not do anything to help them. Asi que maana le digo al pueblo de Puerto Rico, yo estar con ustedes. Votar en contra de este presupuesto porque si no hay escuelas en Puerto Rico, si no hay policas para defender a la gente en la calle, si no hay doctores o enfermeras para curar a los enfermos, tampoco habr un voto para este presupuesto hasta que haya justicia para el pueblo. Y le digo a todo Congresista que vota a favor de este presupuesto, que le niega un futuro a Puerto Rico y le traiciona al pueblo de Puerto Rico. Gracias. Translation of Spanish Portion: So tomorrow I tell the people of Puerto Rico, I will be with you. I will vote against this omnibus budget because if there are no schools in Puerto Rico, if there is no law enforcement to protect the people on the streets, if there are no doctors or nurses healing the sick, there wont be a vote on this budget until there is justice for the people. And I tell every Representative that votes in favor of this budget, you are denying a future for Puerto Rico and you are betraying the people of Puerto Rico. Thank you. Rep. Gutirrez represents the Fourth District of Illinois, is a Member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, is a Member of the Judiciary Committee and the Subcommittee on Immigration and Border Security, and the Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, Homeland Security and Investigations. Rep. Gutirrez representa al Cuarto Distrito de Illinois, es miembro del Comit Permanente Selecto de la Cmara sobre Inteligencia, es miembro del Comit Judicial y el Subcomit de Inmigracin y Seguridad Fronteriza, y el Subcomit de Crimen, Terrorismo, Seguridad Interna e Investigaciones. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://hultgren.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/house-passes-permanent-tax-relief-for-individuals-and-businesses,House Passes Permanent Tax Relief for Individuals and Businesses,2015-12-17,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,IL,Randy Hultgren,H001059,hultgren.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC U.S. Representative Randy Hultgren (IL-14) today supported House passage of the Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes (PATH) Act, a combination of permanent and temporary extensions of tax relief for American individuals and businesses. In addition, the legislation includes important reforms to rein in the IRs and prevent fraud and abuse in the tax system. Every December, Americans worry whether they will face staggering tax hikes that will harm their families and their businesses. The PATH Act creates certainty, helps grow the economy, reins in the IRS, and signals a path forward toward real tax reform, said Rep. Hultgren. The bill ensures our small business can continue to expense equipment purchases, and provides teachers tax relief when purchasing classroom items. As we celebrate the Christmas season, it encourages charitable giving. It prevents harmful taxes on medical devices, and ensures Chicagoland residents using public transit can receive the same benefits as those who drive. Overall, this bill includes many policies I have supported that will be beneficial to Illinois and the nation. I look forward to Speaker Ryan employing his expertise in tax policy to pursue comprehensive and lasting tax reform in the future. The PATH Act includes important permanent and short-term extensions, including: PERMANENT extensions of the following policies: R&D credit:With a permanent research credit, business would have greater certainty when committing to investments in research and development. Code section 179 expensing:Immediate expensing helps cyclical businesses, especially farms, to invest in new property and equipment in profitable years, which averages out against the leaner years when cash flow is not as available to make such investments. State and local sales tax deduction Charitable Tax Policies, including The Fighting Hunger Incentive Act, The Permanent IRA Charitable Contribution Act, and The Conservation Easement Incentive Act of 2015. Active financing exemption 15-year recovery for leasehold and restaurant improvements Charitable contributions of S corporations 5-year recognition period for S corporation built-in-gains Deduction for teacher classroom expenses Temporary American Opportunity Tax Credit (a credit for qualified education expenses paid for an eligible student for the first four years of higher education) is made permanent Temporary changes to the Earned Income Tax Credit (reducing marriage penalties and assisting families with three or more children) are made permanent Temporary expansions of the Child Tax Credit (expanding refundability for low-wage workers) are made permanent 100 percent exclusion for small business stock Mass transit parity Employer wage credit for active duty military (includes expansion for all employers) Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (9% credit made permanent and military housing allowance) FIVE-YEAR extensions of the following policies: Bonus depreciation (50% for 2015-17, 40% in 2018, 30% in 2019) International tax relief: Controlled foreign corporation look-through rule The New Markets Tax Credit The Work Opportunity Tax Credit TWO-YEAR extensions of the following policies: Exclusion of discharged mortgage debt relief from gross income (modified) Mortgage insurance premiums treated as qualified residence interest Above the line deduction for qualified tuition and related expenses Indian Employment Tax Credit Railroad Track Maintenance Credit (modified) Mine Rescue Team Training Credit Qualified Zone Academy Bonds Race horses: 3-year recovery period Motorsports complexes; 7-year recovery period Accelerated depreciation for business property on Indian reservations (modified) Election to expense mine safety equipment Film and television expensing (modified) Section 199 deduction for activities in Puerto Rico Empowerment Zone tax incentives (modified) Temporary increase in rum cover over American Samoa economic development credit Nonbusiness energy property credit Alternative fuel vehicle refueling property credit 2-wheeled plug-in electric motor credit Second generation biofuel producer credit Biodiesel and renewable diesel incentives credit Indian Coal Production Tax Credit (modified) Credit for facilities producing energy from certain renewable resources Credit for energy-efficient new homes Special allowance for second generation biofuel plant property Energy efficient commercial buildings deduction Special rule for sales or dispositions to implement FERC or State electric restructuring policy for qualified electric utilities Credits relating to alternative fuels Credit for new qualified fuel cell motor vehicles Medical device tax moratorium ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://hultgren.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/hultgren-honors-mchenry-army-pilot-kevin-weiss-killed-in-training,"Hultgren Honors McHenry Army Pilot Kevin Weiss, Killed in Training",2015-12-17,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,IL,Randy Hultgren,H001059,hultgren.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC U.S. Representative Randy Hultgren (IL-14) today honored Chief Warrant Officer 2 Kevin Mose Weiss of McHenry County on the House floor who was killed in a helicopter training accident on December 2nd. (Click picture for video) Rep. Hultgren delivered the following prepared remarks: I rise today to honor Chief Warrant Officer 2 Kevin Mose Weiss of McHenry County, a U.S. Army helicopter pilot who lost his life in service to our nation. Returning to duty just after Thanksgiving, Weiss and his co-pilot were flying a routine training exercise out of Fort Campbell in Kentucky on December 2nd when the helicopter they were piloting went down, killing both men in the crash. Weiss dreamed of joining his WWII veteran grandfather in flying as a pilot for his country, and was known by his grandfathers nickname, Mose. Weiss was an avid outdoorsman and served our nation overseas, flying a tour of duty in Afghanistan and earning numerous commendations and decorations. Growing up through McHenry public schools, homeschooling, and then Christian Liberty Academy, Weiss met his wife, Beth, through the youth program, Awana. Weiss leaves behind his wife and two children, Lucas and Susan, and extended family and friends. They remember him as brave from a young age, a shoulder to lean on in difficult times, and a caring and loving brother, husband and father. The family Christmas celebration will be muted this year, but we are forever grateful for Moses service and sacrifice. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://kinzinger.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=399274,Congressman Adam Kinzinger Holds Agriculture Advisory Committee Meeting,2015-12-17,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,IL,Adam Kinzinger,K000378,kinzinger.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Adam Kinzinger (R-Channahon) held his semiannual meeting with the Illinois 16th District Agriculture Advisory Committee on Monday evening to discuss policy issues important to the agriculture community. The Committee was formed in 2013 as a proactive partnership to address agriculture issues on both the local and national level. Many topics were discussed including crop insurance, excessive government regulation, and healthcare. I always enjoy hosting these meetings with the Agriculture Advisory Committee and the discussion generated helps inform my decisions in Washington D.C., said Kinzinger. Agriculture is a major economic driver for the Illinois 16th Congressional District, and Washington needs to empower our agriculture community and allow them to do what they do best: produce food not only for the U.S. but also globally. Monty Whipple, LaSalle County Farm Bureau President, was present for the meeting. ""I really appreciate the Congressman's interest in the number one industry in Illinois, agriculture. He realizes the importance farming and agriculture play in the total United States economy, said Whipple. Congressman Kinzinger has represented rural America well, and maintains his desire to be on top of what needs to be done from a legislative perspective to help our American farmers and agri-businesses. He takes the personal time to relate to us on a one to one basis to learn firsthand of our issues."" Jim Schielein, another member of the Agriculture Advisory Committee and Lee County Farm Bureau member, was also present for Thursdays meeting. ""It is a joy to have a Congressman like Adamwho is truly willing to listen and understand the issues facing Agriculture and the entire 16th Congressional District. We talked through many issues in the time we were together."" At the end of the evening, the Will County Farm Bureau presented Congressman Kinzinger with their Agriculture Support Award for the work he has done to promote and protect Agriculture in the 16th District. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://kinzinger.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=399275,Kinzinger Votes to Prevent Tax Increase on Taxpayers and Small Businesses,2015-12-17,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,IL,Adam Kinzinger,K000378,kinzinger.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Adam Kinzinger (R-IL) applauded House passage of H.R. 2029, the Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes (PATH) Act, a tax extenders package that will have permanent effects. share: f t WASHINGTON Congressman Adam Kinzinger (R-IL) applauded House passage of H.R. 2029, the Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes (PATH) Act, a tax extenders package that will have permanent effects. The Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes Act makes permanent critical tax policies will provide significant tax relief not only for hardworking taxpayers, but for businesses and job creators right here in Illinois, said Congressman Kinzinger. More permanence in our tax code will ensure the predictability, clarity, and certainty that is necessary for employers to plan ahead, hire new workers, grow their businesses and invest in the communities. The provisions in this bill will prevent a significant immediate tax increase on millions of Americans. And in years to come, individual Americans and U.S. businesses will no longer have to worry if Congress will take action to extend important tax relief policies like allowing State sales tax deductions; providing small business tax relief - including increasedsmall business expensing; and offering incentives for innovation- including the research and development tax credit. Research and Development Credit: This bill permanently extends the research and development tax credit. Additionally, beginning in 2016, small businesses may claim credit against alternative minimum tax (AMT) liability and the credit can be utilized by startups against the employers payroll tax liability. Small Business Expensing: It permanently extends Section 179 of the tax code regarding the small business expensing limitation and phase-out amounts. Under this bill, they are set at $500,000 and $2 million respectively and indexes these limits to inflation. Without extension, the limits have fallen to $25,000 and $200,000 respectively. Commercial Building Depreciation: The bill provides a shorter recovery period for qualified leasehold property, qualified restaurant property, and qualified retail improvement property. It provides a 15-year straight-line cost recovery period for leasehold improvements, restaurant buildings and improvements, and retail improvements, rather than a 39-year period. Military Differential Pay: Expands and extends the 20-percent employer wage credit for employees called to active military duty. Beginning in 2016, all employers will be eligible.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://lahood.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/lahood-votes-prevent-tax-increase-hardworking-americans,LaHood Votes to Prevent Tax Increase on Hardworking Americans,2015-12-17,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,IL,Darin LaHood,L000585,lahood.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington D.C.Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-18) voted today in favor of theProtecting Americans from Tax Hikes (PATH) Act.This common sense legislation protects hard working families, farmers and small business owners from end of the year tax increases and provides them with more certainty when doing their taxes. This legislation will allow the residents of the 18th Congressional district to keep more of their hard earned money rather than sending it to Washington, D.C. This bi-partisan bill passed the House of Representatives 318 108. ThePATH Actis a perfect example of the House of Representatives working together to provide more certainty for individuals and businesses by preventing a significant tax increase on millions of hard working families and farmers. Additionally, this bill will help grow our economy by delivering direct tax relief to Americas job creators, providing businesses certainty in the tax code plan, hire employees, and grow their businesses. LaHood stated. Furthermore, we have a current tax code broken and no one can understand. This bill will serve as a catalyst for comprehensive tax reform leading into next yearsomething America is in dire need of. In addition to the two and five year extension of multiple tax provisions, this legislation provides a permanent extension of the following policies: R&D credit Provides businesses, like many here in Central & West Central Illinois, an incentive to invest in research and development which drives innovation and creates jobs of the future. Code section 179 expensing Allows for immediate expensing, particularly helpful to 18th District farmers and for small businesses who invest in new property and equipment, making larger purchases more cost effective by allowing them to be deducted from their taxes over a shorter period of time. State and local sales tax deductionallows individuals who itemize their deductions to deduct state and local sales taxes in lieu of state and local income taxes. Charitable Tax Policies Includes the ability for individuals 70 years and older to exclude, for tax purposes, qualified charitable distributions from an IRA account up to $100,000. The Illinois Farm Bureau thanks Rep. LaHood for casting a vote that moves us closer to accomplishing one of our longstanding priorities, permanent, inflation-adjusted Section 179 small business expensing, added Illinois Farm Bureau president, Richard Guebert, added. This bill will make permanent several key tax provisions for agriculture and ends the annual cycle of uncertainty that stifles economic growth.The five-year extension of bonus depreciation, and extension of biofuels tax credits will no doubt create and support jobs in Illinois. Further, thePATH Actincludes a series of reforms that have previously passed the House designed to rein in the power of the IRS. This includes prohibiting IRS employees from using personal e-mail accounts for official business, requiring IRS employees to respect the taxpayer bill of rights and allows for the termination of IRS employees who take politically motivated actions against taxpayers. ### Congressman Darin LaHood proudly serves the constituents of Illinois 18th Congressional District, consisting of more than 710,000 constituents across 19 counties throughout Central and West-Central Illinois. Darin was born and raised in Central Illinois and currently resides in the Peoria area with his wife, Kristen, and their three children. To schedule an interview with Congressman LaHood, please contact J.D. Dalfonso atj.dalfonso@mail.house.govor at (309) 231-5859",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/-durbin-omnibus-appropriations-bill-invests-500-million-in-priority-transportation-and-infrastructure-projects,Durbin: Omnibus Appropriations Bill Invests $500 Million in Priority Transportation & Infrastructure Projects,2015-12-17,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.17.15 Durbin: Omnibus Appropriations Bill Invests $500 Million in Priority Transportation & Infrastructure Projects Competitive TIGER Grant Program awarded Illinois projects $290 million in funding since 2009 [WASHINGTON, D.C.] U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) announced today that the Omnibus Appropriations bill for Fiscal Year 2016 includes $500 million for investments in priority transportation projects through the competitive TIGER (Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery) Grant Program. Illinois has been the second largest beneficiary of TIGER funding across the country, receiving nearly $290 million since the popular program was created in 2009. Illinois lies at the heart of our nations transportation network. Communities in our state from Chicago to Alton have seen the benefits of the TIGER Grant Program firsthand, said Durbin. As our infrastructure needs remain high, robust funding for the TIGER Grant Program will make much-needed investments in the highway, bridge, airport, rail, and port projects that are critical to our economic future and the safety of travelers throughout the country. The Department of Transportations TIGER grant program was originally created as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act in order to give local communities the chance to apply directly to the federal government for funding their highest priority transportation projects. The program invests in a variety of transportation modes, selects projects through a transparent, competitive and merit-based process, and requires the Secretary of Transportation to provide a full description of how applications will be evaluated. The grant program also ensures that projects across the country are funded, and includes several provisions to balance the needs of urban and rural areas. Demand for the program every year is dramatically higher than available funding. Illinois has received twice as much money through the competitive TIGER Grant Program than through traditional federal highway funds distributed by formula. Since the program was first established in 2009, Illinois has received nearly $290 million in TIGER funding to support critical transportation and infrastructure projects across the state including: the Warehouse District in Peoria, the Multimodal Facilities in Moline, Normal, Urbana, and Alton, the Chicago Lakefront Bridge in Bronzeville, and the CREATE project in Chicago. Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://gutierrez.house.gov/press-release/rep-guti%C3%A9rrez-puerto-rico-and-omnibus-government-funding-bill,Rep. Gutirrez on Puerto Rico and the Omnibus Government Funding Bill,2015-12-16,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Luis Gutiérrez,G000535,gutierrez.house.gov,,,legacy,"Anyone who votes for the omnibus is complicit in the economicand social tragedy headed Puerto Ricos way. Washington, DC On Wednesday, Rep. Luis V. Gutirrez (D-IL) met with Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi along with Members of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC), the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) and Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC) to discuss the omnibus government funding deal to be voted on in the House this week. In particular, Rep. Gutirrez discussed what is and is not in the omnibus package related to Puerto Ricos financial crisis. The Congressman thanked the Congressional Hispanic Caucus for standing up for Puerto Rico and raising the Islands financial crisis as a major issue missing from the omnibus negotiated by key Democratic Leaders with their Republican counterparts. Puerto Rico is a colony, the Congressman reminded his colleagues in the meeting. The sovereignty of the Puerto Rican people resides here in Congress and it is your responsibility whether you like it or not. I cannot face the people of Puerto Rico having voted for this bill because it should have included relief for Puerto Rico to keep schools, hospitals, and roads the basic functions of government open and functioning over the holidays and into next year, Said Rep. Gutirrez. No one in Congress is taking the situation in Puerto Rico seriously enough and anyone who votes for the omnibus is complicit in the economic and social tragedy headed Puerto Ricos way. Republicans dont care if Puerto Rico floats or sinks as long as the bond-holders get paid, the Congressman said. But I am disappointed that the issue has not risen to the level where Democrats are willing to throw down over it. So Puerto Rico continues to sink and needs either the dysfunctional Congress or the laissez-faire Obama Administration to take action. Rep. Gutirrez represents the Fourth District of Illinois, is a Member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, is a Member of the Judiciary Committee and the Subcommittee on Immigration and Border Security, and the Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, Homeland Security and Investigations. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://gutierrez.house.gov/press-release/rep-guti%C3%A9rrez-remarks-introduction-assault-weapons-ban-2015,Rep. Gutirrez Remarks on Introduction of Assault Weapons Ban of 2015,2015-12-16,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Luis Gutiérrez,G000535,gutierrez.house.gov,,,legacy,"How many children under 21 have we lost to guns in years sincethe Assault Weapons Ban of 1994 expired? Too many. In my cityof Chicago, we lose a classroom full of young people almost everymonth. Washington, DC On Wednesday, Rep. David Cicilline of Rhode Island introduced the Assault Weapons Ban of 2015, a bill to ban the sale, transfer, production, and importation of certain weapons and ammunition feeding devices. Rep. Luis V. Gutirrez is an original co-sponsor of the bill and has consistently supported such legislation from his earliest days in Congress. He voted for the assault weapons ban that was approved in 1994 and called for it to be strengthened, extended, and broadened in every Congress since then. The following are the remarks Rep. Gutirrez delivered at a press conference today in the Capitol marking the introduction of the Assault Weapons Ban of 2015: Remarks As Prepared for Delivery: Here is the story from Medill News Service, May 30, 2003: Two Chicago congressmen pressured House Speaker Dennis Hastert on Thursday to take a greater leadership role in renewing the federal law prohibiting assault weapons. ""The weapons that are banned under this legislation are the most deadly and dangerous types of guns on the market today,"" said U.S. Rep. Luis Gutierrez, D-Chicago. Such guns are ""weapons of choice in Chicago for drive-by shooters in my congressional district and in every congressional district across the city,"" he said. Thats what I said when I co-sponsored the Assault Weapons Ban and Law Enforcement Protection Act of 2003 a bill to extend and strengthen the 1994 Assault Weapons Ban. So more than a dozen years later, I am still fighting for an assault weapons ban a ban first implemented 21 years ago. I am not saying this to be nostalgic or to take a walk down memory lane. I say it because this place is so stuck so mired in partisanship and in entrenched lobbying groups like the NRA that we cannot even take action when everyone agrees. On immigration, on guns, on climate, on nothing. There is always one group who wants no action, who wants nothing to happen, who makes the other party so scared of taking any action that the Congressyear after year and decade after decadetakes no action. How many children under 21 have we lost to guns in years since the Assault Weapons Ban of 1994 expired? Too many. In my city of Chicago, we lose a classroom full of young people almost every month. And lets be clear, it is not all assault weapons, but that is part of it. It is not all crime guns the cheap guns that are brought into Chicago from Indiana, Wisconsin, Arkansas, and Mississippi to get around Chicagos stricter laws but that is part of it. And we all know that we are losing children young people at the hands of the police as Chicago grapples with use of force policies, transparency, and the basic trust needed between a community and its police force a fundamental building block of democracy and liberty which has failed us in Chicago dating all the way back to 1968. An assault weapons ban does not solve all these problems, but it helps. It does not take guns and bullets off of the streets completely, but it would help. In the end, until we as Americans begin to see children at Sandy Hook, at Red Hook, at Back of the Yards, and the Southside and South Central as our own children, our own children being slaughtered by guns, by each other, by police, by drugs, and by our indifference until that happens, we must keep raising our voice in their defense. Thank you. Rep. Gutirrez represents the Fourth District of Illinois, is a Member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, is a Member of the Judiciary Committee and the Subcommittee on Immigration and Border Security, and the Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, Homeland Security and Investigations. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://gutierrez.house.gov/press-release/rep-guti%C3%A9rrez-sobre-puerto-rico-y-el-%C3%B3mnibus-del-presupuesto-del-gobierno,Rep. Gutirrez Sobre Puerto Rico y el mnibus del Presupuesto del Gobierno,2015-12-16,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Luis Gutiérrez,G000535,gutierrez.house.gov,,,legacy,"Cualquier persona que vote por el mnibus es cmplice de la tragedia econmica y social dirigida hacia Puerto Rico. Washington, DC El mircoles, el congresista Luis V. Gutirrez (D-IL) se reuni con la lder Demcrata Nancy Pelosi, junto con miembros del Caucus Hispano del Congreso (CHC), el Caucus Afro-Americano del Congreso (CBC), y el Caucus del Congreso Asitico del Pacfico (CAPAC) a discutir el acuerdo de financiacin del gobierno mnibus que ser votado en la Cmara esta semana. En particular, el diputado Gutirrez discuti lo que hay - y no hay - en el paquete de mnibus en relacin con la crisis financiera de Puerto Rico. El congresista agradeci al Caucus Hispano del Congreso por su defensa de Puerto Rico ""Puerto Rico es una colonia"", el congresista les record a sus colegas en la reunin. ""La soberana del pueblo de Puerto Rico reside aqu en el Congreso y es su responsabilidad, le guste o no."" ""No puedo mirarle en los ojos a pueblo puertorriqueo y haber votado por este proyecto de ley, ya que debera haber incluido un alivio para Puerto Rico para mantener al da las escuelas, hospitales y seguridad pblica - las funciones bsicas de gobierno - abiertas y funcionando durante estas navidades y el ao que viene, dijo el representante Gutirrez. ""El Congreso no est tomando la situacin en Puerto Rico lo suficientemente en serio y cualquier persona que vote por el mnibus es cmplice de la tragedia econmica y social dirigida hacia Puerto Rico."" ""A los Republicanos no les importa si Puerto Rico flota o se hunde, siempre y cuando a los tenedores de bonos se les pague"", dijo el congresista. Pero estoy decepcionado de que el tema no se ha elevado hasta el nivel donde los Demcratas estn dispuestos a pelear. As que Puerto Rico sigue hundindose y necesita ya sea que este Congreso disfuncional o la administracin pasiva de Obama tome medidas"". Rep. Gutirrez representa al Cuarto Distrito de Illinois, es miembro del Comit Permanente Selecto de la Cmara sobre Inteligencia, es miembro del Comit Judicial y el Subcomit de Inmigracin y Seguridad Fronteriza, y el Subcomit de Crimen, Terrorismo, Seguridad Interna e Investigaciones. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://hultgren.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/administration-puts-in-place-herculean-hurdles-for-states-to-obtain-aca,Administration Puts in Place Herculean Hurdles for States to Obtain ACA Waivers,2015-12-16,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,IL,Randy Hultgren,H001059,hultgren.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC Today the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the U.S. Department of the Treasury revealed full details of the state waiver process under Section 1332 of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA). Unfortunately, the guidance builds in more barriers against state control and innovation. It maintains that states must jump through a series of legislative, budget, and coverage hoops to obtain a waiver and gives the administration significant arbitrary control to approve or deny state requests. Rep. Hultgren has introduced legislation, H.R. 3352, the State Health Care Options Act, to ease such hurdles and allow states to opt out of certain provisions of the law and pursue their own alternatives. Premiums in my home state of Illinois are expected to increase about 30 percent next year. Individuals and families are paying the price. They have limited choice of insurance providers and are facing unsustainably high monthly premiums and deductibles. ACA costs are through the roof and still rising. We must fix the situation now and stop playing politics, said Rep. Hultgren. This new guidance from the administration does nothing to allay my concerns about states inability to access ACA waivers as an important tool to innovate outside the federal governments constraints and reduce the cost of health insurance for my constituents. Most notably, the guidance reiterates that applying states must provide coverage at least as comprehensive and affordable as coverage offered under the ACA. Affordability is among the ACAs chief problems, and the laws restrictive coverage requirements all but guarantee that individuals, families, and employers are paying for coverage they do not want or need. That is why I introduced H.R. 3352, the State Health Care Options Act of 2015, said Rep. Hultgren. This legislation would give states real access to more comprehensive ACA waivers by streamlining application requirements and expanding the applicability of the waiver to the laws exchange requirements. My constituents need relief now. They shouldn't have to choose between health insurance coverage and putting food on the table and a roof over their heads. The administration is doubling down on an alreadyinaccessible andunworkable waiver that, if fixed, could be a parachute off the ACAs most burdensome provisions for states in need of better ideas, affordable markets, and more choice. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://hultgren.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/hultgren-raises-privacy-concerns-over-housing-data-collection,Hultgren Raises Privacy Concerns over Housing Data Collection,2015-12-16,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,IL,Randy Hultgren,H001059,hultgren.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC U.S. Representative Randy Hultgren (IL-14) today raised concerns with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureaus (CFPB) implementation of new reporting requirements under the Home Mortgage Disclosure Act (HMDA) during a hearing of the House Financial Services Committee Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations. (Click picture to watch video) I have been troubled by all of the stories I have heard about what happens when consumer financial information gets into the wrong hands, said Rep. Hultgren at the hearing. Our government should be held to the highest standard when it comes to protecting the personal information it holds on the American people. Dr. Mark Calabria, Director of Financial Regulation Studies at the Cato Institute, testified: Even before this [rule] from what was publicly available for HMDA, you could link to courthouse records and identify individuals with that data. This is a major crisis for the whole government, said Newt Gingrich, former Speaker of the House. In the coming months, Rep. Hultgren plans to introduce legislation to protect homebuyers personal information by requiring the Comptroller General of the United States to conduct a study to determine whether the data collected under the Home Mortgage Disclosure Act could present privacy issuers for borrowers. The Bureaus implementation of the Home Mortgage Disclosure Act should be added to the long list of examples of regulatory overreach by the most unaccountable financial regulator in history, said Rep. Hultgren. The Bureau claims its extensive data collection program is intended to protect consumers, but it overlooks the governments foremost responsibility of keeping Americans safe. They should take every possible measure to protect our financial information; the simplest way is to not demand it in the first place. The Home Mortgage Disclosure Act was enacted in 1975. With the passage of Dodd-Frank, the responsibility for collecting this information was transferred from the Federal Reserve to the CFPB. The Bureau finalized a regulation on October 15, 2015, putting in place new reporting requirements that exceed those mandated by the Dodd-Frank Act. HMDA data is anonymized by the CFPB before being published on the website of the Federal Financial Institutions Examination Council (FFIEC). Concerns have been raised as to how this data could be linked to other publicly available data sources to re-identify specific borrowers and their personally identifiable information. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://quigley.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/quigley-joins-fight-to-remove-weapons-of-war-from-our-communities,Quigley Joins Fight to Remove Weapons of War from Our Communities,2015-12-16,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Mike Quigley,Q000023,quigley.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Today, U.S. Representative Mike Quigley (IL-05) joined U.S. Rep. David N. Cicilline (RI-01) and other gun violence prevention advocates to introduce the Assault Weapons Ban of 2015, which prohibits the sale, transfer, production, and importation of new military-style weapons and high-capacity magazines. In the 10 years since the Assault Weapons Ban lapsed, these firearms were used in more than half of all mass shootings. The shooters in San Bernardino, Colorado Springs, Sandy Hook Elementary School, Aurora, and Roseburg, Oregon all had high-capacity weapons and ammunition. Congress cannot continue to stand by as these weapons of war are bought and sold freely, said Rep. Quigley. Im proud to be an original co-sponsor of the Assault Weapons Ban of 2015. It is time we enact laws that effectively address the publics safety and keep dangerous weapons out of the hands of dangerous people. The Assault Weapons Ban of 2015 will prohibit the sale, transfer, production, and importation of: Semi-automatic rifles and handguns with a military-style feature that can accept a detachable magazine; Semi-automatic rifles and handguns with a fixed magazine that can hold more than 10 rounds; Semi-automatic shotguns with a military-style feature; Any ammunition feeding device that can hold more than 10 rounds; And 157 specifically-named and listed firearms. The bill also sets new standards to prevent default proceeds the standard that allows firearms dealers to complete a sale if a buyers background check is not completed within three days. Under the proposed law, the background check period will be extended to 14 days for the sale or transfer of an existing assault weapon. If it is determined that a gun was sold to a prohibited individual, the FBI will be required to notify federal, state, and local law enforcement so the weapon can be retrieved as quickly as possible and the buyer can be held accountable for violating federal law. Rep. Quigley helped introduce the Assault Weapons Ban of 2015 at the U.S. Capitol Building. More than half of all mass shooters who killed four or more people used an assault weapon. Thats because the sole purpose of an assault weapon is to inflict as much damage as possible in as short an amount of time as possible, added Rep. Cicilline. This bill is an important first step that will restore some sanity to the way we treat guns in the United States. Assault weapons were used in attacks last month in San Bernardino and Colorado Springs. Shooters also used them to commit mass murder at Sandy Hook Elementary School, a movie theatre in Aurora, Colorado, and a community college in Roseburg, Oregon. When an assault weapon or a high-capacity magazine is used in a shooting, the number of victims who are killed increases by 63 percent. As a member of the House Appropriations Committee, Rep. Quigley hascalled on Congress to stand up to the gun lobbyin America. Most recently, he co-authored abipartisan background check billthat expands the existing background check system to cover all commercial firearm sales. He also introduced theGood Neighbor Gun Act, which would require the Department of Justice (DOJ) to establish a voluntary code of conduct for licensed gun dealers and create a national Good Neighbor certification for gun dealers who abide by a certain set of requirements. His signature legislation, theTRACE Act, cracks down on the illegal gun market by improving gun tracking data and provides law enforcement the tools it needs to enforce current gun laws. Rep. Quigley believesChicagos gun violence epidemic demands a federal response. He has led bills toincrease funding to public safety and combat gun violencein the Chicago area, and is an original sponsor of theBuyback Our Safety Actto bolster gun buyback initiatives. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://rodneydavis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398886,Davis Calls on President to Develop Strategy to Combat ISIS Use of Social Media,2015-12-16,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,IL,Rodney Davis,D000619,rodneydavis.house.gov,,,legacy,"U.S. Rep. Rodney Davis (R-Ill.) today released the following statement after the House passed H.R. 3654, the Combat Terrorist Use of Social Media Act:We need a comprehensive strategy to defeat ISIS and that includes combating their ability to recruit and radicalize followers online, said Davis. Terrorist groups are increasingly using social media sites such as Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube to fundraise and encourage lone wolf attacks on free societies throughout the world. We need a strategy to battle them not only on the ground but online as well. The use of social media by terrorists to encourage and recruit individuals to commit acts of terrorism has increased in recent years. In fact, a Brookings Institution report found that at least 46,000 Twitter accounts were used by ISIS supporters between October and November of 2014 and nearly 20 percent of those accounts designated English as their primary language. H.R. 3654 requires the president to report to Congress on the U.S. strategy to combat the use of social media by terrorists and terrorist organizations. The report must be presented within 90 days and must include the following: An evaluation of what role social media plays in radicalization in the U.S. and throughout the world; An analysis of how terrorists and terrorist organizations are using social media; A summary of the federal governments efforts to disrupt and counter terrorists use of social media, an evaluation of the success of such efforts, and recommendations for improvement; An analysis of how social media is being used for counter-radicalization and counter-propaganda; and, An overview of social media training available to law enforcement and intelligence personnel, as well as recommendations for improving or expanding these training opportunities. The House continues to pass measures to strengthen our national security and protect Americans here at home. Bills passed by the House to date include: H.R. 4038, the American Security Against Foreign Enemies (SAFE) Act, H.R. 158, the Visa Waiver Improvement and Terrorist Travel Protection Act, and H.R. 4239, the Tracking Foreign Fighters in Terrorist Safe Havens Act.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-bustos-continued-funding-for-prison-activation-in-omnibus-appropriations-bill-is-more-good-news-for-jobs-economic-development-in-the-quad-cities,"Durbin, Bustos: Continued Funding for Prison Activation in Omnibus Appropriations Bill is More Good News for Jobs, Economic Development in the Quad Cities",2015-12-16,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.16.15 Durbin, Bustos: Continued Funding for Prison Activation in Omnibus Appropriations Bill is More Good News for Jobs, Economic Development in the Quad Cities [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) and U.S. Representative Cheri Bustos (IL-17) today announced that the Omnibus Appropriations bill for Fiscal Year 2016 includes a level of funding for Bureau of Prisons that will allow for continued funding for the activation of the Thomson correctional facility in Thomson, Illinois. Though today’s bill does not detail how this funding will be spent, Durbin and Bustos expressed confidence that the funding for the Thomson facility’s activation remains a top priority for the Obama Administration.  The bill must now be voted on in both chambers and signed into law by President Obama.      “The funding levels in today’s legislation show Congress’ continued commitment to supporting the Bureau of Prisons operations at Thomson Correctional Center,” said Durbin.   “The activation of Thomson prison will not only help relieve overcrowding in America’s prison system, but it will also bring much-needed jobs and new economic opportunities to the surrounding communities.  I will continue to work with Congresswoman Bustos to make certain that future funding is available.  Every day the Obama Administration is making progress toward its goal of opening and operating the prison in a responsible and humane manner that protects the safety and rights of both staff and inmates.”     “By including funding that will allow for more than 200 hard working men and women at Thomson Correctional Center to keep doing their jobs, we're taking on the challenges facing our prison system while focusing on job creation in our community,” said Congresswoman Cheri Bustos. “While the inclusion of this funding is a step in the right direction, the full activation of Thomson will create over 1,000 jobs in our community while generating over $60 million worth of local economic activity, so our work is not finished.” Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-congress-agrees-to-fund-great-lakes-restoration-initiative-at-300-million-1215,Durbin: Congress Agrees to Fund Great Lakes Restoration Initiative at 300 Million,2015-12-16,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.16.15 Durbin: Congress Agrees to Fund Great Lakes Restoration Initiative at 300 Million Funding included in Omnibus Appropriations bill agreement introduced in the House of Representatives late last night [WASHINGTON, D.C.] - U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) today announced the inclusion of $300 million in funding for the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI) in the Omnibus Appropriations bill for Fiscal Year 2016 will support ongoing efforts to protect the Great Lakes including: combating invasive species, particularly Asian Carp; reducing and removing pollution, waste run-off and toxic chemicals; and restoring wetlands and other lakefront assets. The bill, which was introduced in the House late last night, must now be voted on by both the House and Senate and signed into law by President Obama. In Illinois, we treasure Lake Michigan from the drinking water it provides to millions of people, to the commerce and tourism it brings to the Chicago area, said Durbin. Todays bill will provide adequate funding for the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative to take on projects like the Waukegan Harbor cleanup completed last year and continue working to protect the lakes for generations to come. Initially funded with a $475 million appropriation in Fiscal Year 2010, the GLRI received $300 million in both Fiscal Years 2011, 2012, 2014 and 2015. Sequestration cut funding for the GLRI to $285 million in Fiscal Year 2013. As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Durbin has consistently worked to fully fund the GLRI. The GLRI, an inter-agency effort led by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, was created in 2009 to support ecological projects in the region. It has invested more than $70 million in 75 Illinois initiatives including the removal of toxic chemicals from Waukegan Harbor, green infrastructure projects like the Millennium Reserve near the Calumet River, and the restoration of 40 acres of land at Northerly Island. The GLRI also provides Illinois with $7 million per year to combat Asian carp through electronic barriers and commercial fishing. Several organizations, municipalities and universities in Illinois have received funding from the GLRI to survey beaches and coordinate electronic recycling efforts. Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-defense-appropriations-bill-invests-in-groundbreaking-research-and-protects-illinois-priorities,Durbin: Defense Appropriations Bill Invests in Groundbreaking Research & Protects Illinois Priorities,2015-12-16,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.16.15 Durbin: Defense Appropriations Bill Invests in Groundbreaking Research & Protects Illinois Priorities [WASHINGTON, D.C.] U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL), Vice Chairman of the Senate Defense Appropriations Subcommittee, announced today that the Fiscal Year (FY) 2016 Omnibus Appropriations Bill which provides $572.8 billion in funding for the military and intelligence community, our national security requirements and the daily needs of over two million active duty and reserve servicemembers funds Illinois defense installations and protects important Illinois priorities. The legislation was completed late last night and is expected to be voted on this week by both the Senate and the House of Representatives. Illinois has long taken a leadership role in our nations defense. Not only does our state claim three of our countrys most important and dynamic defense installations Rock Island Arsenal, Scott Air Force Base, and Naval Station Great Lakes we are also home to 13,000 National Guardsmen who serve throughout Illinois, Durbin said. As Vice Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Defense Subcommittee, I have worked with my colleagues to maintain our states leadership and to ensure that Illinois servicemembers, their families, and our military and civilian workforce have the support they need and deserve. Stronger Investments in Groundbreaking Research Continuing to invest in basic and advanced research and development is essential to maintaining our technological edge on the battlefield and enhancing our national security. The bill supports these efforts by increasing funding for basic research by 10% over FY2016 requested levels to $2.32 billion. Just as investing in basic and advanced science has paid great dividends, similar investments in medical research and battlefield medicine are saving more lives while improving care options and quality of life after injuries. This knowledge helps better inform treatment for everyone. Todays legislation supports these efforts by increasing funding for medical research at the Department of Defense by 7% over FY2015 enacted levels to $1.935 billion. Federal funding for research and development has been on a downward trend for the past several decades leading to a $1.5 trillion investment deficit that has forced a growing number of Americas best young researchers to take their talents to other industries and other countries. For several years, Senator Durbin has championed increased investment to reverse this trend. Durbin authored The American Innovation Act and The American Cures Act to set steady growth rates in federal appropriations for biomedical and scientific research conducted at the nations premier federal research agencies. Durbin has served on the House and Senate Appropriations Committees for 26 years. He assumed Chairmanship of the Defense Appropriations Subcommittee in 2013, taking over from his close friend and former Appropriations Committee Chairman, Daniel Inouye. In 2015, he became the Vice Chairman of the subcommittee after Republicans assumed leadership of the Senate. The FY16 Department of Defense Appropriations Act including funding for the following Illinois defense installations and priorities. Rock Island Arsenal The legislation provides $60 million for Humvee Ambulances and $100 million for Humvee modernization which helps meet a continuing Army need. It also includes $145 million in funding for Industrial Mobilization Capacity (IMC) to help arsenals keep their work rates competitive. This funding helps Rock Island Arsenal and other arsenals compete more effectively for public-private partnerships and other business to help sustain capacity, cost efficiency and technical competence in peacetime, while preserving the ability to provide an effective and timely response to mobilizations, national defense contingency situations and other emergent requirements.Durbin included a similar provision in the FY14 & FY15 Department of Defense Appropriations Bills, which were both funded in the final legislation. The FY16 Department of Defense Appropriations Bill requires the Secretary of the Army to maintain a minimum workload at Rock Island Arsenal (and the arsenals in New York and Arkansas). The legislation also directs the Secretary of Defense to review opportunities within other services and the Defense Logistics Agency to maximize workloads at arsenals. St. Louis Region The Navy has identified a need for additional F/A-18s and E/A-18Gs as part of its FY16 unfunded requests list, as well as an ongoing need for electronic attack capability. To meet that need, the FY16 Department of Defense Appropriations Bill includes $350 million in funding for five F/A-18s and $660 million in funding for seven E/A-18Gs. Production of F/A-18s and E/A-18Gs is based at Boeings St. Louis plant, which employs thousands of workers, including 2,000 from Illinois. In addition, the bill includes an additional $8 million for F-18 generator upgrades. Todays legislation also adds $300 million for R&D for the Navys Unmanned Carrier-Launched Airborne Surveillance and Strike (UCLASS) program, for which Boeing and several other companies are competing. Lovell Federal Health Care Center The legislation approved by the Senate Defense Appropriations Subcommittee today also fully funds President Obamas budget request $121 million through the Department of Defense to extend the DOD-VA pilot program at Lovell Federal Health Care Center for a fifth year. Since 1999, Durbin has played a major role in the development and implementation of the Lovell Federal Health Care Center, which serves as an integrated healthcare facility for both servicemembers and veterans in the North Chicago region. Illinois National Guard (Peoria & Rantoul) The FY15 Department of Defense Appropriations Bill provides an additional $33.2 million to accelerate nationwide engine upgrades and enhancements to C-130H aircraft, eight of which are flown by the 182nd Air National Guard wing based in Peoria, Illinois. These upgrades will reduce the need for repairs to the C-130H aircraft, and will also make them more powerful and energy efficient. The bill also provides an additional $5.207 million in funding for the National Guard Youth ChalleNGe Program. ChalleNGe academics including Lincoln's ChalleNGe Academy in Rantoul, Illinois give at-risk youths who have dropped out of high school a second chance at completing their education using a military model. Since its founding in 1993, 35 ChalleNGe academies across the country have graduated more than 120,000 participants. Ammunition Production in East Alton and Marion, Illinois The bill maintains funding for numerous ammunition lines including lines produced at Olin Brass in East Alton, Illinois and General Dynamics in Marion, Illinois which are critical to the safety of our troops overseas. Army Corps of Engineers, Champaign The bill supports President Obamas budget request for the Army Corps of Engineers Research Center in Champaign, Illinois. The Construction Engineering Research Laboratory (CERL) concentrates on improving the design and effectiveness of Army installations and ranges, making them more resilient, efficient and affordable. CERL research and products also improve environmental sustainability while contributing to other Army Corps Research Center priorities.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-omnibus-appropriations-bill-funds-innovation-and-research-at-argonne-national-lab_fermilab,Durbin: Omnibus Appropriations Bill Funds Innovation & Research At Argonne National Lab & Fermilab,2015-12-16,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.16.15 Durbin: Omnibus Appropriations Bill Funds Innovation & Research At Argonne National Lab & Fermilab Funding included in Omnibus Appropriations bill agreement that now goes to the House and Senate for a vote [WASHINGTON, D.C.] - U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) today announced the Omnibus Appropriations bill for Fiscal Year 2016, which was introduced late last night, preserves essential federal funding for scientific research and development programs that support work at both Argonne National Laboratory and Fermilab. Together, Argonne and Fermilab employ roughly 5,150 Illinoisans. The bill must now be voted on by both chambers of Congress and signed into law by President Obama. Todays legislation protects funding for the ongoing research at both Argonne National Lab and Fermilab, but we cant lose sight of the important role these labs play in keeping the United States competitive in this fast-paced global economy, said Durbin. Investing in their potential for scientific and technological innovation now will put our nation at the forefront of discovery in the future. The Omnibus Appropriations bill includes funding for the following energy research and development accounts that fund projects at Argonne National Laboratory and Fermilab: Argonne National Laboratory Basic Energy Science: $1.8 billion in funding for the Office of Sciences Basic Energy Science account which is Argonne National Laboratorys largest single-source funding source, and accounts for approximately 40 percent of the labs funding; Energy Innovation Hub for Batteries and Energy Storage: $24.1 million for the Energy Innovation Hub for Batteries and Energy Storage. In November 2012, Argonne National Laboratory was selected to receive an award of up to $120 million over five years to create the Hub, also known as the Joint Center for Energy Storage Research (JCESR), which is a partnership including University of Chicago, the University of Illinois, the City of Chicago, and private firms and townships in Illinois. The project will establish Illinois as a leader in a multi-billion dollar, developing industry that has potential to stimulate substantial employment and economic growth. Advanced Photon Source Upgrade: $20 million for Advanced Photon Source, a sophisticated x-ray beam that companies, universities, and other research institutions use to conduct break-through research to discover new energy materials, pharmaceuticals, and security infrastructure and transportation. Advanced Scientific Computing Research: $621 million in funding for the Office of Sciences Advanced Scientific Computing Research account, which supports Argonnes National Laboratorys supercomputer initiatives including $77 million for the operations of Argonnes Leadership Computing Facility. Argonne National Laboratory is one of the U.S. Department of Energy's largest research centers. It is also the nation's first national laboratory which houses basic and applied scientific research across a wide spectrum of disciplines, ranging from high-energy physics to climatology and biotechnology. Argonne employs roughly 3,400 people, including scientists and engineers. Fermilab High Energy Physics: $795 million in funding for the Office of Sciences High Energy Physics account which is the primary source of funding for Fermilab, and accounts for approximately 90 percent of the labs funding; Long Baseline Neutrino Experiment: $26 million in funding is included for the Long Baseline Neutrino Experiment, a primary focus at Fermilab.Research in neutrinos represents the next frontier of particle physics. The Muon to Electron Experiment: $40 million in funding is included for the Muon to Electron Experiment which could result in the development of a revolutionary technology in the field. Fermilab is the nations premier high-energy physics laboratory that employs over 1,750 people including physicists, engineers and computer professionals. The laboratory leads U.S. research into the fundamental nature of matter and energy. Fermilab is a world-leading laboratory in the study of neutrinos and very rare processes using existing and upgraded facilities. Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbins-cures-act-sets-standard-for-increased-biomedical-research-funding-in-omnibus,Durbin's Cures Act Sets Standard for Increased Biomedical Research Funding in Omnibus,2015-12-16,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.16.15 Durbin's Cures Act Sets Standard for Increased Biomedical Research Funding in Omnibus [WASHINGTON, D.C.] U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) announced today that the Omnibus Appropriations bill for Fiscal Year 2016 dramatically increases overall funding for breakthrough scientific and biomedical research based on targeted funding levels set by Durbins American Cures Act. In total, the bill includes nearly $42 billion in funding to support the research at the National Institutes of Health, the Centers for Disease Control, the Department of Defense Health Program, and the Veterans Medical & Prosthetics Research Program. With the support of robust, sustained federal funding, there is no limit to what science can do to prevent, treat and cure diseases like cancer and Alzheimers, Durbin said. The increase in funding for breakthrough research included in this bill is a down payment on that future. If we continue making those investments, well see our nations best and brightest researchers light up the scoreboard. The Omnibus Appropriations bill for Fiscal Year 2016 increases funding for cutting edge biomedical research conducted at the nations following premier federal research agencies: National Institutes of Health: $32.08 billion in funding; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: $7.23 billion in funding; In 2012, fifty-three percent of all funding for basic research came from the federal government. Yet as a percentage of the total federal budget, the federal government spends two-thirds less on research and development today than it did in 1965. At NIH the foremost biomedical research institute in the world the percentage of research grants that receive funding has declined almost every year for the past 10 years. The lack of funding has led to a $1.5 trillion investment deficit and a growing number of Americas best young researchers are taking their talents to other industries and other countries. For several years, Durbin has championed increased investment to reverse this trend. Durbin authored The American Innovation Act and The American Cures Act to set steady growth rates in federal appropriations for biomedical and scientific research conducted at the nations premier federal research agencies. The American Innovation Act would provide annual budget increases of 5 percent over and above inflation for cutting edge research at five important federal research agencies: The National Science Foundation, the Department of Energy Office of Science, the Department of Defense Science and Technology Programs, the National Institute of Standards and Technology Scientific and Technical Research, and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Science Directorate. More information on the bill is available here. TheAmerican Cures Act would set a steady growth rate in federal appropriations for biomedical research conducted at NIH, CDC, DHP, and the Veterans Medical & Prosthetics Research Program. Each year, the bill would increase funding for each agency and program at a rate of GDP-indexed inflation plus 5 percent. This steady, long-term investment would allow the agencies to plan and manage strategic growth while maximizing efficiencies. More information on the bill is available here. Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://hultgren.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/hultgren-renews-call-for-house-hearing-on-faa-air-traffic-control-hiring,Hultgren Renews Call for House Hearing on FAA Air Traffic Control Hiring Procedures and Cheating Scandal,2015-12-15,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,IL,Randy Hultgren,H001059,hultgren.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC U.S. Representative Randy Hultgren (IL-14) has led a letter along with Reps. Keith Rothfus (PA-12), Patrick Murphy (FL-18), Bill Johnson (OH-06), Austin Scott (GA-08) and Don Young (AK-At-large), urging the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure to host a hearing on questionable changes the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has made in their hiring process of air traffic controllers, and on an alleged cheating scandal involving FAA employees. Key individuals impacted by the cheating scandal report that, despite repeated attempts, FAA officials conducting an internal investigation did not return calls or set up interviews with them to hear their stories and uncover the truth. In a letter to Chairman Shuster and Ranking Member DeFazio, the Members wrote: Controversy surrounding the FAAs changes to the hiring process of air traffic controllers continues to warrant congressional inquirythere are strong indications that the plan hasresult[ed] in unjust economic injury to qualified candidates and the FAAs very own Collegiate Training Institutions, a historic source of producing qualified candidates. In addition, the letter highlights a behind-the-scenes media investigation into an alleged cheating scandal, revealing that the FAA or aviation-related employees may have assisted in giving potential air traffic controller recruits special access to answers on a key admissions test to help them gain jobs within the FAA. I am deeply disturbed that the FAA would conduct two interagency investigations in response to an alleged cheating scandal affecting thousands of applicants but still not ask the hard questions about the alleged cheating. This mess has gone far enough and the inexcusable lack of clear answers on any questions surrounding the implementation of the new hiring process is unacceptable. My colleagues and I remain adamant in our demand for a hearing to be held immediately to bring in those responsible for these changes, Rep. Hultgren stated. Visit here for the full letter: https://hultgren.house.gov/sites/hultgren.house.gov/files/2015-12-14_Letter_T%26I_Committee_Call_for_FAA_Hearing.pdf. Since December of 2014, Rep. Hultgren has called for FAA officials to appear before Congress to answer for their actions. A former member of the House Subcommittee on Aviation, he has urged the House to act on his legislation,H.R. 1964, the Air Traffic Controllers Hiring Act of 2015(previously known as the SAFE TOWERS Act), to reverse the effects of the FAAs policies and restore safety and confidence to air travel. In addition, Rep. Hultgren successfully passed an amendment to H.R. 2577, the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act of 2016, restricting funding for the use of the Biographical Assessment. The FAA is under fire following asix month investigationinto the agencys new hiring practices which for months Rep. Hultgren and his colleagues have argued caused the agency to pass over the most qualified air traffic controller candidates, such as experienced veterans, and have raised concerns of air travel safety. The investigation also uncovered the alleged cheating, which Rep. Hultgrenhas called out in the press. Illinois 14th Congressional District is home to the most air traffic controllers in Illinois. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://kinzinger.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=399270,Kinzinger Hosts Reception Honoring Military Academy Nominee from the Illinois 16th District,2015-12-15,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,IL,Adam Kinzinger,K000378,kinzinger.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Adam Kinzinger (R-Channahon) hosted his annual reception for high school students who received a nomination to attend the United States Service Academies. The reception was held at Rep. Kinzingers Ottawa District Office the evening of December 14th. Students wishing to attend one of the nations Service Academies must receive a nomination from either their Congressman, Senator, or the Vice President. Congressman Kinzinger provided 13 nominations to the Academies this year. Our nations service academies have the highest admissions standards and the nomination process is one of the first steps to becoming cadets or midshipmen. This process is very competitive and nominees must be academic leaders and leaders amongst their peers, said Congressman Kinzinger. As a Representative and a current member of the Air National Guard, I am honored to give nominations to these students, so they have the opportunity to become future leaders in our military. The nominees were selected based on their applications, test scores, extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation, and the specific requirements of each U.S. Service Academy. Potential nominees were also individually interviewed by Rep. Kinzinger. Each Service Academy will determine who will receive an appointment of admission. The majority of the nominees should receive notice of their admission by the Spring of 2016. 16th District Service Academy Nominees U.S. Military Academy at West Point, New York Drew Barto of Peru Joel Bottarini of Ottawa Seamus McGettigan of Ottawa Michael Stocksdale of Dixon Christian Zarnke of Rockford U.S. Air Force Academy at Colorado Springs, Colorado Hannah Cerny of Kingston Andrew Jepsen of Channahon Nicholas Kissick of Rockford Samuel Lesak of Streator Brendan Schoonover of South Beloit U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, Maryland Matthew Grushkin of Mazon Joseph McGraw of Rockford Christopher Pedersen of Malta ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-appeals-to-pope-francis-regarding-dominican-cardinals-hostile-statements-against-openly-gay-us-ambassador,Durbin Appeals to Pope Francis Regarding Dominican Cardinal's Hostile Statements Against Openly Gay U.S. Ambassador,2015-12-15,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.15.15 Durbin Appeals to Pope Francis Regarding Dominican Cardinal's Hostile Statements Against Openly Gay U.S. Ambassador WASHINGTONU.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) today sent a letter to Pope Francis regarding Cardinal Nicolas de Jesus Lopez Rodriguez of the Archdiocese of Santo Domingo in the Dominican Republic and the United States Ambassador to that country, Wally Brewster. Cardinal Rodriguez has been openly hostile in public remarks and even helped organize a protest against Ambassador Brewster, who is openly gay. The Churchs teachings on gay marriage are well known, but the Church also teaches us to show tolerance for those with different sexual orientations. The intolerant public statements of Cardinal Rodriguez are inconsistent with that clearly stated value. wrote Durbin. Since your selection as Pope, you have shared a message of compassion, tolerance, and love. I remember distinctly when you spoke to us at the joint session of Congress in September and reminded us of our responsibility to defend and preserve the dignity of your fellow citizens in the tireless and demanding pursuit of the common good. I accept that challenge and I am calling on you to ask nothing less of the hierarchy of the Church. Full text of Durbins letter: His Holiness, Pope Francis Apostolic Palace 00120 Vatican City December 15, 2015 Most Holy Father Pope Francis, Thank you for your recent visit to Washington and address to our Joint Session of Congress. Your visit and message had a profound impact on all of us. I write to you about a matter involving Cardinal Nicolas de Jesus Lopez Rodriguez of the Archdiocese of Santo Domingo in the Dominican Republic and the United States Ambassador to that country, Wally Brewster. Ambassador Brewster is from my state of Illinois and he is a personal friend. I supported President Obamas selection of Ambassador Brewster and he was sworn into his position in my Senate office. Ambassador Brewster is gay and was married under the laws of the United States to his partner, Bob Satawake. Even before Ambassador Brewsters arrival in Santo Domingo in 2013, Cardinal Rodriguez launched a personal attack against him with public statements quoted in the popular press. The Cardinal used the hateful slur faggot, which he continues to use to this day. In a recent interview Cardinal Rodriguez again described the Ambassador as a faggot and falsely claimed the Ambassador was setting out to promote faggotry in the Dominican Republic. The Cardinal described the Ambassador as a wife who should stick to housework. In the past the Cardinal and Dominican Church leaders even organized a Black Monday public protest against the Ambassador. Their action led to a counter-demonstration in support of the Ambassador and his partner. Despite these hateful words and personal attacks, Ambassador Brewster has worked to quiet the conflict between Church leaders and himself. His patience and professionalism in light of these mean-spirited attacks by the Cardinal demonstrate his personal commitment to his responsibility of representing the United States of America. The Churchs teachings on gay marriage are well known but the Church also teaches us to show tolerance for those with different sexual orientations. The intolerant public statements of Cardinal Rodriguez are inconsistent with that clearly stated value. Since your selection as Pope, you have shared a message of compassion, tolerance, and love. I remember distinctly when you spoke to us at the joint session of Congress in September and reminded us of our responsibility to defend and preserve the dignity of your fellow citizens in the tireless and demanding pursuit of the common good. I accept that challenge and I am calling on you to ask nothing less of the hierarchy of the Church. Sincerely, RICHARD J. DURBIN United States Senator Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://rush.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rush-statement-on-paris-climate-summit-agreement,Rush Statement on Paris Climate Summit Agreement,2015-12-14,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Bobby Rush,R000515,rush.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON U.S. Representative Bobby L. Rush (D-Ill.) released the following statement after delegates to the COP21 Paris Climate Summit announced a final agreement to limit carbon pollution and address the climate crisis: I commend President Obama, President Hollande, Secretary Kerry and the entire U.N. delegation on this historic international climate change agreement. The world has come together to put a halt to increasing global emissions and address the real effects of climate change. This will inspire future generations to care for our planet collectively and work cohesively with other nations. Cutting carbon pollution means bringing cleaner, more reliable energy. This can mean not only cutting pollution, but also saving families money on their energy bills. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-anti-muslim-bigotry-has-no-place-in-america,Durbin: Anti-Muslim Bigotry Has No Place in America,2015-12-14,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.14.15 Durbin: Anti-Muslim Bigotry Has No Place in America [WASHINGTON, D.C.] After attending an interfaith peace vigil last night at the Islamic Society of Springfield, U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) spoke on the Senate Floor today to commend Springfields faith and community leaders for joining together to speak out against inflammatory rhetoric directed at refugees and Muslims. In his remarks, Durbin also condemned a recent increase in hate crimes and other anti-Muslim bigotry and praised his Senate colleague, U.S. Senator Jeff Flake (R-AZ) for sharing a similar message of tolerance in his home state over the weekend. Last night in Springfield, Illinois a typical Midwestern American city there was a gathering of people from all across the city at 5:30 on a Sunday night. It was a gathering at the Islamic Society of Springfield, Durbin said. There was standing and sitting room only. It was a huge outpouring of support for our Muslim brothers and sisters in the Springfield community. There were representatives of virtually every religion present and many spoke. Rabbis, ministers, Catholic nuns and even a few elected officials. Trying let our friends know in the Muslim community that despite some of the things that have been said over the last few weeks by presidential candidates we, in fact, embrace them as part of the American family. Video of Durbins remarks is available here. Audio of Durbins remarks is available here. Footage of Durbins floor remarks is available for TV Stations using FTP in high definition here and in standard definition here. Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-failed-westwood-college-should-not-be-allowed-to-sell-campuses-to-other-for-profit-college-systems-under-investigation,Durbin: Failed Westwood College Should Not Be Allowed to Sell Campuses to Other For-Profit College Systems Under Investigation,2015-12-14,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.14.15 Durbin: Failed Westwood College Should Not Be Allowed to Sell Campuses to Other For-Profit College Systems Under Investigation [WASHINGTON, D.C.] U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) today called on the Department of Education to prevent failed Westwood College campuses including four in Illinois from being sold to other for-profit college systems that are under investigation by local, state or federal agencies. Recently, Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan settled a lawsuit with the company for $15 million after finding that Westwood was lying to students about its criminal justice program. As I understand it, Westwood will be teaching out and ending operations altogether at many of these campuses, including the four it operates in my home state of Illinois. At the same time, the company may be seeking to sell other campuses, which the Department would ultimately have to approve, Durbin wrote. With respect to the sale of Corinthian campuses, you assured me in writing that the Department will not approve a sale to another entity if that entity is currently under State and/or Federal investigation Today, I ask you to make that same commitment with respect to the potential sale of brands or campuses owned by Alta. The Department of Education should not allow these students to be put in jeopardy again. December 14, 2015 The Honorable Ted Mitchell Under Secretary U.S. Department of Education 400 Maryland Avenue, SW Washington, DC 20202 Dear Under Secretary Mitchell: I write today about the future of Westwood College and ask the Department of Education to take steps to protect students as the school ends operations. Westwood College, owned by Alta College, Incorporated, has been one of the most notorious bad actors in the for-profit college industry. The Colorado Attorney General found that Westwood misled prospective students through deceptive advertising. Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan recently settled a lawsuit with the company for $15 million. Attorney General Madigan found that Westwood was lying to students about their criminal justice program claiming students would be able to get good jobs, when in reality many employers did not recognize the degree. On November 12, Alta announced it was suspending enrollment at its Westwood College campuses nationwide. As I understand it, Westwood will be teaching out and ending operations altogether at many of these campuses, including the four it operates in my home state of Illinois. At the same time, the company may be seeking to sell other campuses, which the Department would ultimately have to approve. In August 2014, with respect to the sale of Corinthian campuses, you assured me in writing that the Department will not approve a sale to another entity if that entity is currently under State and/or Federal investigation Today, I ask you to make that same commitment with respect to the potential sale of brands or campuses owned by Alta. The Department of Education should not allow these students to be put in jeopardy again. I also ask the Department to require, as a condition of approving any sale of Altas Westwood or other campuses, that the new owner refrain from using in its enrollment agreements any mandatory arbitration clauses or other contractual barriers to students making claims against a school in a court of law. This will ensure that students can hold institutions directly accountable for any alleged misconduct, potentially obviating the need for victimized students to seek relief from the Department and the taxpayers. Thank you for your attention to this issue. I appreciate your prompt reply. Sincerely, Richard J. Durbin United States Senator Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-leads-illinois-members-in-registering-concern-with-oversight-agency-over-proposed-freight-merger,Durbin Leads Illinois Members in Registering Concern with Oversight Agency Over Proposed Freight Merger,2015-12-14,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.14.15 Durbin Leads Illinois Members in Registering Concern with Oversight Agency Over Proposed Freight Merger Members write to STB regarding the proposed CP-NS mergers potential impact on Chicago, Illinois rail network [WASHINGTON, D.C.] In response to a proposed merger between two of Illinois rail operators Canadian Pacific Railway (CP) and Norfolk Southern Corporation (NS) U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) led a letter to the Surface Transportation Board urging the agency to carefully consider the potential negative impact of the proposal on Illinois freight network. In their letter, the Members requested careful review of the possible effects of CPs proposed acquisition of NS on Illinois communities and businesses, particularly those in and around Chicago. We are writing to you regarding Canadian Pacific Railways proposal to acquire Norfolk Southern Corporation, a merger that could have significant implications to the freight network in Illinois and this country, the Members wrote. We are concerned about the effects of the proposed CP-NS merger on Chicago. We urge you to carefully review any plans submitted to the STB, and consider the potential negative impact of the proposal with respect to building a more efficient freight network in Chicago and comprehensively examine the economic effects of such a consolidation on local industries and jobs in the Chicago region. Todays letter was signed by U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL), U.S. Representative Dan Lipinski (D-IL), U.S. Representative Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), U.S. Representative Danny Davis (D-IL), U.S. Representative Mike Quigley (D-IL), U.S. Representative Bobby Rush (D-IL), U.S. Representative Cheri Bustos (D-IL), U.S. Representative Luis Gutirrez (D-IL), U.S. Representative Jan Schakowsky (D-IL), and U.S. Representative Bill Foster (D-IL). The full text of todays letter is available below. December 14, 2015 The Honorable Daniel R. Elliott III Chairman United States Surface Transportation Board 395 E Street, SW Washington, DC 20423-0001 The Honorable Ann D. Begeman Vice Chairman United States Surface Transportation Board 395 E Street, SW Washington, DC 20423-0001 The Honorable Deb Miller United States Surface Transportation Board 395 E Street, SW Washington, DC 20423-0001 Dear Chairman Elliott and Surface Transportation Board Members: We are writing to you regarding Canadian Pacific Railways (CP) proposal to acquire Norfolk Southern Corporation (NS), a merger that could have significant implications to the freight network in Illinois and this country. As the Surface Transportation Board (STB) knows, Illinois is home to all seven Class I railroads and has the second highest rate of employment in the rail industry nationally, with over 17,000 railroad employees and over 32,000 retirees, spouses, and survivors dependent on a robust and stable rail industry. The State of Illinois relies on a strong freight rail industry to drive not only our state economy but also the economy of the United States. Congress has provided the STB with the power to approve or disapprove mergers and acquisitions in the railroad industry. In approving a merger, the STB must assess, among other things, whether the proposed merger will serve the public interest, and whether it will benefit or harm competition among rail carriers. These are complicated questions that take time to resolve. To that end, we are concerned about the effects of the proposed CP-NS merger on Chicago. There are many questions about the details of CPs proposal as it relates to the public interest. Canadian Pacific has not detailed how it may route traffic through Chicago or other regions. First, we urge you to carefully review any plans submitted to the STB, and consider the potential negative impact of the proposal with respect to building a more efficient freight network in Chicago. If new routes are planned, it is critical that STB carefully and transparently examine the effect on communities along those new routes. Second, the STB should consider the economic impact on shipping in Illinois and the United States. Will the merger take business away from Illinois and the United States by diverting business to Canada? Third, CP is targeting $1.8 billion of synergies that would be achieved through headcount, locomotive fleet, a lower tax rate, and operations rationalization. We urge the STB to review and comprehensively examine the economic effects of such a consolidation on local industries and jobs in the Chicago region. If CP is proposing to cut costs on the backs of Illinois workers, the STB has a responsibility to evaluate and publicly disclose the details of such a proposal. During the STBs lengthy review process, it is critical that the STB ensure the independence of the two railroads contemplating a merger. In that regard, we have deep concern over public comments made by the CEO of CP, expressing his intent to immediately assume control of NS by taking over as the CEO of NS during the pendency of the STBs review process as a voting trust. It is directly contrary to the prohibition on unlawful control set forth in the STBs regulations and enshrined in federal law. Congress has given the STB the power to keep the best interest of consumers in mind when considering proposed mergers, especially an acquisition of this scale. Any attempt to circumvent the role of the STB and threaten the sovereignty of a competing railroad should be taken seriously. Thank you for your careful review of this matter.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-pays-tribute-to-fallen-chicago-firefighter-daniel-capuano-on-senate-floor,"Durbin Pays Tribute to Fallen Chicago Firefighter, Daniel Capuano, On Senate Floor",2015-12-14,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.14.15 Durbin Pays Tribute to Fallen Chicago Firefighter, Daniel Capuano, On Senate Floor [WASHINGTON, D.C.] U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) spoke on the Senate Floor today to honor the service and sacrifice of Chicago Firefighter Daniel Capuano, who died early this morning in a warehouse fire on the South Side of Chicago. Daniel Capuano went to work this morning, just like he has done every day for the past fifteen years ready to fight fires and save lives. Not many people can say theyve woken up every day ready to sacrifice their life to protect their community. But this morning, Daniel Capuano did just that, Durbin said. Daniels death is a devastating loss and serves as a reminder of the risks that our firefighters and first responders take every day for the livelihood of others. My condolences and prayers are with Daniels wife Julie; his three children Nicholas, Andrew, and Amanda; and his fellow firefighters. Daniel, youre a hero to me and to the people of Chicago and Illinois. There are no words to truly describe the sorrow for your loss. Video of Durbins remarks is available here. Audio of Durbins remarks is available here. Footage of Durbins floor remarks is available for TV Stations using FTP in high definition here and in standard definition here. Durbins remarks as prepared for delivery are available below: Remarks of U.S. Senator Dick Durbin Tribute to Chicago Firefighter Daniel Capuano December 14, 2015 It is with a heavy heart that I rise today to speak about the loss of one of the bravest men in the Chicago Fire Department, Daniel Capuano. Daniel Capuano went to work this morning, just like he has done every day for the past fifteen years ready to fight fires and save lives. Not many people can say theyve woken up every day ready to sacrifice their life to protect their community. But this morning, Daniel Capuano did just that. At 2:40am today, Daniel Capuano and his fellow firefighters contacted about a warehouse fire on the 9200-block of South Baltimore Avenue on the South side of Chicago. Daniel and the other firefighters were immediately dispatched to the scene to respond to the situation. The warehouse was undergoing construction and because of that, there were reports of holes in the floors of the building. When they got there, they saw billowing smoke coming out of the vacant three-story warehouse. Firefighter Capuano and his team moved cautiously through the second floor of the warehouse in search for the cause of the fire. But the heavy, thick smoke made it nearly impossible to see causing Capuano to fall through an elevator shaft from the second floor of the building to the basement. His fellow firefighters were able to find him right way and get him on an ambulance to a nearby hospital. But sadly, it was too late. By the time he arrived he was already in serious condition. And at 4:25am this morning, Daniel Capuano was pronounced dead from trauma. It is times like these that we are reminded of just how dangerous the job that these men and women do every day really is. Daniel Capuano spent his entire career putting the safety of his community before his own. For fifteen years, he served the Chicago Fire Department combating and eliminating fires while pulling others to safety. And before that, he served as a firefighter in Evergreen Park, a southwest suburb of Chicago. Daniel is a true hero who made the ultimate sacrifice to make the residents of his community and neighborhood safe. Daniels death is a devastating loss and serves as a reminder of the risks that our firefighters and first responders take every day for the livelihood of others. My condolences and prayers are with Daniels wife Julie; his three children Nicholas, Andrew, and Amanda; and his fellow firefighters. Daniel, you are a hero to me and to the people of Illinois. There are no words to truly describe the sorrow for your loss, and I cannot thank you enough for your commitment to our people.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-statement-on-historic-paris-climate-agreement,Durbin Statement on Historic Paris Climate Agreement,2015-12-13,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.13.15 Durbin Statement on Historic Paris Climate Agreement SPRINGFIELDU.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) released the following statement after the President announced that a historic deal to combat climate change had been reached tonight in Paris: This is a momentous agreement for all of us here on planet Earth, but even more importantly for our children and our childrens children. The threats posed by climate change have been linked to drought, food shortages, severe and dangerous storms, poverty, and even terrorism. Committing to reducing carbon emissions isnt just a environmental or humanitarian imperativeits a national security imperative too. I commend our U.S. negotiators and representatives from all countries who came together to achieve this landmark agreement. This is a big step toward making our world a better place. Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://quigley.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/quigley-statement-in-support-of-cop21-agreement,Quigley Statement in Support of COP21 Agreement,2015-12-12,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Mike Quigley,Q000023,quigley.house.gov,,,legacy,"CHICAGO Today, U.S. Representative Mike Quigley (IL-05), a member of the Sustainable Energy and Environment Coalition, released the following statement in response to the Paris Conference of Parties (COP21) Agreement: Today marks a historic step in the global fight against climate change. For the first time, we have an ambitious, durable climate regime that applies to all countries, focuses both on reducing greenhouse gas emissions and building resilience, includes strong accountability measures, and ensures ongoing financial and technical assistance to those countries in need. I applaud all of those involved in the negotiation process, especially President Obama, Secretary of State John Kerry, and Todd Stern, lead negotiator for the U.S., for their courage and vision. Under this agreement, all countries will communicate their climate and targets every five years, ensuring progress and accountability. Each target will be expected to go further than the last, reflecting the highest possible goals for each country. It also sets a goal of keeping warming well below two degrees Celsius and sets an ambitious vision to go even further than that in the future. All 196 parties from the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) worked together to make an agreement that is fit for 2020 and beyond, serving not just this generation but also countless generations to come. We recognize that this deal is not a silver-bullet solution to what is a massive global challenge, but we have put ourselves on the right path with an agreement that is forward-looking, dynamic, and durable. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://foster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/foster-chaffetz-send-bipartisan-letter-urging-speaker-ryan-to-restore,"Foster, Chaffetz Send Bipartisan Letter Urging Speaker Ryan to Restore Office of Technology Assessment",2015-12-11,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Bill Foster,F000454,foster.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC Today, Representatives Bill Foster (IL-11), Jason Chaffetz (R-UT) and 13 Members of Congress sent a bipartisan letter to Speaker Ryan asking for his support for the Office of Technology Assessment (OTA). Congress created the OTA in 1972 to provide Congress with nonpartisan analysis of scientific and technical issues, but closed when it was defunded in 1995. A copy of the letter is available here. So much of what we consider before Congress today has complex, technical components that deserve complex, technical analyses. We may have deep philosophical differences over issues, and that debate is important, but if were not starting on sound technical and scientific footing, then its all just tilting at windmills. Restoring the Office of Technology Assessment will bring a much needed dose of logic and reason to Congress, said Foster. The letter says: The OTA's 24-year body of work encompasses some 750 reports and assessments on issues as far ranging as arms control to shale technologies to bioterrorism. These reports contributed to the security and economic growth of our nation by providing timely and forward-looking analysis of technological threats and opportunities. The expertise provided by the OTA saved taxpayers billions of dollars by identifying cost-effective areas for future investment, and avoiding wasted money on technologies and policies that did not and could not work. As technology continues to advance and budgets continue to shrink, this kind of trustworthy, non-partisan analysis is no less necessary today than when the OTA was first started 43 years ago. As technology continues to develop and spread at an increasingly rapid pace and our partisan divide seems to grow deeper, Congress needs this now more than ever. We urge you to support funding to reinstate Office of Technology Assessment to once again give legislators access to the non-partisan technical expertise we need to make prudent policy decisions. The bipartisan letter was signed by 15 Members of Congress, including: Jason Chaffetz (R-UT), John Conyers (D-MI), Jim Costa (D-CA), Suzan DelBene (D-WA), Donna F. Edwards (D-MD), Elizabeth Esty (D-CT), Blake Farenthold (R-TX), Alan Grayson (D-FL), Mike Honda (D-CA), Zoe Lofgren (D-CA), Alan Lowenthal (D-CA), Jim McDermott (D-WA), Jim McGovern (D-MA), Mark Takano (D-CA). ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://hultgren.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/hultgren-statement-on-iex-application-to-be-sec-registered-exchange,Hultgren Statement on IEX Application to be SEC Registered Exchange,2015-12-11,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,IL,Randy Hultgren,H001059,hultgren.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC U.S. Representative Randy Hultgren (IL-14) today released a statement on IEXs Form 1 Application seeking registration with the Securities and Exchange Commission as a national securities exchange: I am a champion of new technology and innovation. When considering the registration of new exchanges, the SEC must ensure our equity market structure puts investors first and maintains a transparent and fair system for all players. It is important the Commission use a judicious process and consider questions and concerns raised by all market participants before approving a new trading approach with a so-called speed bump that could broadly impact market structure and yield lasting implications for investors. I applaud IEX for thinking outside the box and putting on the table a new approach that could lead to more efficient order execution for all. New technology can equal more complexity. The SEC must be very thorough in its review. On September 22, 2015, IEXs application was made public for a 45-day public comment period. The SEC review period concludes at the end of this year and is subject to potential extension. Rep. Hultgren is a member of the House Financial Services Committee and the Subcommittee on Capital Markets and Government Sponsored Enterprises, which has jurisdiction over the Securities and Exchange Commission. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://kinzinger.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=399267,Congressman Kinzinger Applauds Enactment of Civil Nuclear Cooperation Agreement between United States and the Republic of Korea,2015-12-11,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,IL,Adam Kinzinger,K000378,kinzinger.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Kinzinger Applauds Enactment of Civil Nuclear Cooperation Agreement between United States and the Republic of Korea f t # e Washington, December 11, 2015 Congressman Adam Kinzinger (R-IL) praised the enactment of a new civil nuclear cooperation between the United States and the Republic of Korea (ROK). Commonly known as a 123 Agreement, the agreement ensures the ROK will adhere to and promote U.S. nonproliferation goals while supporting the significant and growing civil nuclear industry in the ROK. share: f t WASHINGTON - Congressman Adam Kinzinger (R-IL) praised the enactment of a new civil nuclear cooperation between the United States and the Republic of Korea (ROK). Commonly known as a 123 Agreement, the agreement ensures the ROK will adhere to and promote U.S. nonproliferation goals while supporting the significant and growing civil nuclear industry in the ROK. The enactment of the 123 Agreement is just the latest example of how strong a partner the Republic of Korea has become for the United States, said Congressman Kinzinger. The US-Korea bilateral relationship already includes the U.S.-Republic of Korea Free Trade Agreement (KORUS FTA) and our deep military cooperation on the Korean Peninsula, and this civil nuclear agreement further cements that alliance. The 123 Agreement will also boost the U.S. nuclear industry as Korea will be able to more easily export nuclear technology that includes American components. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-calls-on-gov-rauner-to-take-state-action-to-close-loophole-that-allows-suspected-terrorists-to-buy-guns,Durbin Calls on Gov. Rauner to Take State Action to Close Loophole That Allows Suspected Terrorists to Buy Guns,2015-12-11,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.11.15 Durbin Calls on Gov. Rauner to Take State Action to Close Loophole That Allows Suspected Terrorists to Buy Guns SPRINGFIELDU.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) today sent a letter calling on Illinois Governor Bruce Rauner to take action at the state level to close a dangerous loophole in law that allows suspected terrorists to purchase guns in Illinois: The horrific terror attacks in Paris, Colorado Springs, and San Bernardino have given new urgency to the need to close dangerous loopholes in our laws that allow would-be terrorists to buy guns. The highest priority for both the Governor and I is to keep Illinoisans safe, but Republicans in Congress continue to block even the most common sense anti-terror measures. Gun owners and non-gun owners alike can agree that keeping guns out of the hands of suspected terrorists is the right thing to do. I call on Governor Rauner to work with our state legislature to close this loophole. Americas response to these terror attacks should be to take the fight to ISIS abroad and strengthen our national security at home, not go after the children and families fleeing ISIS terrorism themselves. I wont rest until we bring some sanity back to our federal gun laws, but Governor Rauner is in a position to take swift action to protect lives in our state. I hope he will. Yesterday, Connecticut Governor Dannel P. Malloy announced that would sign a first-in-the-nation executive order, pending federal approval,to ban those on government watch lists from buying guns in his state. Full text of Durbins letter to Governor Rauner: December 11, 2015 The Honorable Bruce Rauner Office of the Governor 207 State House Springfield, IL 62706 Dear Governor Rauner, The recent attacks in Paris, Colorado Springs and San Bernardino have highlighted the vulnerability of our communities to acts of terror perpetrated with firearms. These mass killings have given new urgency to the need to close dangerous loopholes in our laws that allow known or suspected terrorists to buy guns. I am working to pass legislation to close this terror gap on a federal level, but prompt action should also be taken in Illinois to prevent known or suspected terrorists from using a FOID (Firearm Owners Identification) card to buy guns. I urge you to do all within your power to close the terror gap on the state level in Illinois. Gun owners and non-gun owners alike agree that keeping guns out of the hands of known and suspected terrorists is common sense. This can also be done consistent with the U.S. and Illinois Constitutions and our commitment to due process. Federal terror gap legislation contains significant procedural protections to ensure that any person mistakenly included on a prohibited gun buyer list can challenge that listing both administratively and in court and be removed from the list. With these protections in place, a person mistakenly included on the list would only experience the temporary inconvenience of a delay in buying a gun while it is confirmed that the person is not involved in terrorist activity. Similar protections can be applied on the state level. You and I agree on the need to keep Illinoisans safe from acts of terror, and I hope we can work to swiftly close the terror gap on both the state and federal levels. Addressing this vulnerability will make our communities safer. Thank you for your attention to this matter. Sincerely, RICHARD J. DURBIN United States Senator Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-meets-with-local-education-leaders-to-discuss-overhaul-of-no-child-left-behind,Durbin Meets with Local Education Leaders to Discuss Overhaul of No Child Left Behind,2015-12-11,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.11.15 Durbin Meets with Local Education Leaders to Discuss Overhaul of No Child Left Behind New law reauthorizes the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, provides greater flexibility to states, invests in early childhood education SPRINGFIELD, IL A day after President Obama signed the bipartisan Every Student Succeeds Act, U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) today met with Springfield Public Schools Superintendent Jennifer Gill, representatives from the Illinois Education Association and Illinois Federation of Teachers, and other educators to discuss the new education law that will overhaul No Child Left Behind. The Every Student Succeeds Act provides a more flexible approach to student testing and school accountability. This bill is more directly tied to the future prosperity of the United States than virtually any other issue we face here in Congress. It will decide whether our children and grandchildren receive the quality education they deserve from preschool to high school and beyond, said Durbin. The Every Student Succeeds Act makes important improvements to our elementary and secondary education system. I was pleased to vote in favor of a bill to give parents, teachers, and principals in Springfield and across Illinois a replacement to No Child Left Behind. The Every Student Succeeds Act gives states greater flexibility in developing plans that ensure all students graduate from high school prepared for postsecondary education or the workforce. States are required to set academic standards, measure achievement, and hold themselves accountable, but there are important federal guard rails to protect minorities and underperforming students. The law will preserve annual assessments but reduce the reliance on the often ineffective and high-stakes testing. Schools that are performing in the bottom 5%, according to a states accountability system, and schools with less than 67% of their students graduating, are required to make changes designed to improve performance, but those changes will be up to the states and districts to decide. The Every Student Succeeds Act also includes a grant program to provide funding for states to improve coordination, quality, and access for early childhood education which is critical to making sure every child has a strong start in life. Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-approves-bill-to-child-proof-liquid-nicotine-bottles,Senate Approves Bill to Child-Proof Liquid Nicotine Bottles,2015-12-11,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.11.15 Senate Approves Bill to Child-Proof Liquid Nicotine Bottles Legislation proposed after spike in poisoning reports [WASHINGON, D.C.] The Senate last night approved a measure to require manufacturers to put child-proof caps on the small bottles of liquid nicotine available for purchase in stores across the country. Its the first time the Senate has taken up and passed a bill aimed at regulating liquid nicotine used in e-cigarettes and other vaping devices. There is a word for the toxic candy-flavored liquids found in electronic cigarettes: poison. Just this week, a study found that a chemical found in many e-cigarettes is linked to the devastating respiratory disease known as popcorn lung. Protecting our nations children from exposure to poison is basic common sense, especially when it can have dangerous and fatal consequences like liquid nicotine, U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) said. Just a small amount of this stuff can seriously injure or even kill a small child, said U.S. Senator Bill Nelson (D-FL), who authored the legislation. Making these bottles child-proof is just common sense. This legislation would require child-resistant packaging for any liquid nicotine vial sold in the United States. Durbin and Nelson first introduced the bill last year after increased reports of children falling ill, and in at least one case, dying from liquid nicotine poisoning. It was approved by the Senate Commerce Committee, but never made it to the full Senate for a vote. The lawmakers introduced it again this year, vowing to push even harder for its passage. Liquid nicotine, sold in concentrated form for use in e-cigarettes, often comes in brightly-colored, easy-to-open vials with enticing flavors such as Fruity Loops, Peppermint Patty, and Gummi Bear. According to the American Association of Poison Control Centers, a single teaspoon of this product could kill a small child. Calls to poison control centers for liquid nicotine exposure have spiked in recent years, according to the AAPCC, going up from just one call per month in September 2010 to 318 calls per month in March of this year. Many of these calls involved children five years old or younger The Senate approved the bill by unanimous consent late yesterday. It now goes to the House for final passage. Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://foster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/foster-rohrabacher-send-bipartisan-letter-urging-girl-scouts-to-support,"Foster, Rohrabacher Send Bipartisan Letter Urging Girl Scouts To Support STEM",2015-12-10,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Bill Foster,F000454,foster.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC Today, Representatives Bill Foster (D-IL) and Dana Rohrabacher (R-CA) sent a bipartisan letter highlighting efforts to encourage girls to develop skills in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). Recently, theGirl Scouts of Orange County STEM Consortiumcreated the My STEM Life badge to encourage girls to consider careers in STEM. Foster, Rohrabacher and others wrote to Girl Scouts CEO Anna Maria Chvez urging the Scouts to adopt the badge nationally. Its wonderful to see this effort to encourage girls to consider STEM careers, said Foster. As a father, I encouraged my daughter to explore STEM subjects, and will never forget the first time she used a vertical milling machine to engineer her own creation. We all need to do more to encourage girls to explore STEM and remind them that their possibilities are limitless. Girls are not seeing a long term path in STEM, yet projections indicate that STEM jobs will grow 17% by 2018, compared with less than 10% growth for non-STEM jobs. We need more women entering STEM professions so we can fill key positions and maintain global competitiveness. Studies show that girls lose or gain interest, skill and confidence in STEM by eighth grade, so its critical that we reach them early. Girl Scouts of Orange Countys new My STEM Life badge introduces middle school girls to STEM in engaging ways they relate to and connects them to dynamic STEM role models, inspiring them to pursue their STEM education, said Nancy Nygren, CEO, Girl Scouts of Orange County. The group encouraged the Girl Scouts to adopt the My STEM Life badge nationally, saying: Girl Scouts of the USA has a long and proud legacy of empowering girls to become effective leaders in their families and communities. With badges in everything from first aid to entrepreneurship and even public policy, we hope that Girl Scout troops around the country will also encourage girls to pursue their interest in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) by creating a badge like the My STEM Life badge. Although women fill close to half of all jobs in the U.S. economy, we know they fill less than 25 percent of the jobs in STEM fields. Encouraging girls to consider pursuing a career in STEM will only not benefit those girls personally and professionally, it will also help move our economy forward as they use their skills to cure diseases, explain the mysteries of the universe, or keep our country safe. Full text of the letter is available here. The letter was signed by Science, Space, and Technology Committee Chairman Lamar Smith (R-TX), Ranking Member Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-TX), as well as Representatives Cheri Bustos (D-IL), Don Beyer (D-VA), Katherine Clark (D-MA), Barbara Comstock (R-VA), Steve Cohen (D-TN), Bob Dold (R-IL), Donna F. Edwards (D-MD), Alan Grayson (D-FL), Michael M. Honda (D-CA), Randy Hultgren (R-IL), Gregory W. Meeks (D-NY), Paul Tonko (D-NY), and Mimi Walters (R-CA). ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://rush.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rush-supports-labor-strike-in-alsip,Rush Supports Labor Strike in Alsip,2015-12-10,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Bobby Rush,R000515,rush.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Today, U.S. Representative Bobby L. Rush (D-Ill.) announced his strong support for Teamsters Local 727 in their unfair labor practice strike against Coca-Cola Refreshments in Niles, IL and at the Alsip, IL facility in his congressional district. The full text of the letter is below:",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://gutierrez.house.gov/press-release/congressional-hispanic-caucus-evenwel-v-abbott,Congressional Hispanic Caucus on Evenwel v. Abbott,2015-12-09,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Luis Gutiérrez,G000535,gutierrez.house.gov,,,legacy,"CHC ON EVENWEL V. ABBOTT Washington, D.C. Today, Congressional Hispanic Caucus Members released the following statements on the Evenwel v. Abbott. The Supreme Court heard oral arguments for the case today and CHC Members led a press conference outside the Court earlier this morning. Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20), Congressman Ruben Gallego (AZ-07), and Thomas Saenz from the Mexican American Legal Defense Fund (MALDEF) spoke on the devastating effects the case would have on the Latino community. In Evenwel v. Abbott, the Supreme Court will determine whether voting districts should continue to be drawn by using census population data, which include noncitizen immigrants, or whether the system should be changed to count only citizens eligible to vote, as conservative challengers are seeking. The case would have enormous implications for the Latino community and Latino representatives at every level of government. CHC Chairwoman Linda T. Snchez: Evenwel v. Abbott is an attempt to erase the Latino community off the map. At 55%, Latinos stand to be the most affected ironically at a time when our community is growing. Less representation would mean fewer resources for already marginalized communities. The case before us goes against the Equal Protection Clause of the Constitution and simply doesnt make sense. The Congressional Hispanic Caucus will not stand for these radical attempts to undermine Latinos. Congressman Joaquin Castro: This case is an affront to our democracy. It sends a message to millions of Americans in this country that they dont count. We should encourage folks to participate in the electoral process, not strip them of their representation. Those pushing this case support changes that contradict the Constitution and the spirit of our democratic process. Everyone counts in this nation, and our election laws should reflect that. Congressman Ruben Gallego: This case was brought up because the American electorate is changing, and a growing Latino population is changing what we know about American politics. This case is an attempt by those who feel threatened to erase the Latino community off the map and it puts our communitys policy priorities at risk. The concept of one-man, one-vote is an American ideal that has been enshrined now for nearly 150 years. For the Supreme Court or any group to arbitrarily try to wipe that away overnight goes against the core tenants of American democracy. Congressman Jos Serrano: Evenwel vs. Abbott seeks to make invisible millions of individuals in the legislative redistricting and democratic process including taxpayers that contribute to our economy, young people that represent our future generations, and minorities that are an integral part of our communities. Every person living in America deserves to be counted, to be represented, and to be served in our democracy, even if they are not eligible and registered to vote. The court should uphold these principles, and reject arguments that would have a devastating effect on the Latino community after all the progress we have made in recent years. Congressman Luis Gutirrez: Our political system should respond to the many, not the few. The principle of one person, one vote has served this country well and in the modern era, we should not make fundamental political and governance decisions based on race, ethnicity, age, or immigration status. It is simply the wrong direction to go. Congresswoman Lucille Roybal-Allard: If the Supreme Court rules broadly for the plaintiff in Evenwel v. Abbott, it would have devastating effects for Latino communities across the country, especially in my home state of California. My Los Angeles-area district has the largest percentage of Latinos in the country, and is already in dire need of more federal resources. If voter registration were used to redraw district lines, Californias 40th District would be further stretched to include an additional 150,000 people at the minimum. For too many districts, the precedent set by the Evenwel v. Abbott decision has the potential to seriously set back our political systems ability to represent all members of our society. Congresswoman Nydia M. Velzquez: Non-voters like children have a vital stake in how their government is run, but this case would essentially tell them their voices do not matter and they do not count. The Court should reject this brazen effort to undo fifty years of progress toward equality at the ballot box. Congressman Ral M. Grijalva: American democracy belongs to everyone who calls this country home. Drawing lines for elected office based upon voter participation is a blatant and shameful attempt to disenfranchise and deny representation within our communities. Our nation learned first-hand that democracy for some is not democracy at all. The Evenwel case is an attempt to repeat that mistake, and I urge the Supreme Court to reject it outright. Congressman Ben Ray Lujn: This case is an attempt to manipulate the redistricting process by denying representation to millions of Americans. Determining electoral districts on the basis of registered voters rather than the total population excludes non-voters, including children, and undermines our commitment to equal treatment for all people. Every person deserves to be represented by their elected leaders. CHC press conference outside the Supreme Court this morning. From left to right: MALDEFs Thomas Saenz, Congressman Ruben Gallego, and Congressman Joaquin Castro. #### The Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC), founded in December 1976, is organized as a Congressional Member organization, governed under the Rules of the U.S. House of Representatives. The CHC is dedicated to voicing and advancing, through the legislative process, issues affecting Hispanics in the United States, Puerto Rico and U.S. Territories.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://gutierrez.house.gov/press-release/congressional-immigration-leaders-and-children-call-ending-family-detention-%E2%80%9C-wish,Congressional Immigration Leaders and Children Call for Ending Family Detention as A Wish for the Holidays,2015-12-09,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Luis Gutiérrez,G000535,gutierrez.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressional Immigration Leaders and Children Call for Ending Family Detention as A Wish for the Holidays Capitol Hill Press Conference Exhibited Childrens Letters to Families in ICE Custody Washington, DC This afternoon, the Congressional Womens Working Group on Immigration Reform and We Belong Together were joined by children at a Capitol Hill press conference to call for an end to Americas family detention system. Nine members of Congress spoke out about the need to end family detention, including Congresswoman Lucille Roybal-Allard (CA-40), chair of the Congressional Womens Working Group on Immigration Reform; Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren (CA-19); Congressman Luis Gutirrez (IL-04); Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (WA-01); Congresswoman Grace Meng (NY-06); Congresswoman Norma Torres (CA-35); Congresswoman Linda Snchez (CA-38); Congresswoman Dina Titus (NV-01); and Congresswoman Judy Chu (CA-27). The press conference also featured Caritza and Alejandro, a mother and her five-year-old son who were previously held at the Dilley detention facility in Texas. They described the reasons for fleeing their home countryand their experience in detention. In addition, the event displayed enlargements of handwritten letters that elementary school-aged children have written for delivery to children who will spend this holiday season inside detention facilities. The childrens letters, which are part of We Belong Togethers A Wish for the Holidays letter-writing campaign, express the childrens holiday wish that the families in detention be released. Noe, Fiorella, and Yazareth, children who wrote letters to families in detention, also appeared at the press conference, and Noe and Fiorella read their letters aloud. Other speakers included Sameera Hafiz, policy director at We Belong Together, and Wendy Cervantes, vice president of immigration and child rights at First Focus, a childrens advocacy organization. While some changes have been made to improve conditions at these centers and reduce the length of detention, the fact is they remain jail-like settings, said Congresswoman Roybal-Allard. Detention of children is cruel and misguided, and the suffering and negative impact on these young developing minds is unacceptable. I echo the wish of the children here today to call for an end to family detention. We are a country of laws and a country of compassion. And it is that compassion that must be reflected in how we treat immigrant women and children who have sacrificed so much to escape violence and abuse. I will continue to fight with my colleagues for accountability in detention and for swift processing of families through Immigration and Customs Enforcement so these women and children can be placed in less restrictive settings as they await the adjudication of their cases. We have made some progress over the past couple of years, but we have not achieved our goal of stopping the practice of holding moms and kids in detention when there are more efficient, cost-effective, and humane ways to handle them, said Congressman Gutirrez. People seeking asylum, fleeing violence in Central America or fleeing systematic oppression anywhere in the world, we are fighting for the government to treat families and moms and children with respect, to use tax-money as efficiently as possible, and to end the practice of family detention. Its shameful that children will be spending the holidays in detention centers across the United States. I urge us all to remember the harrowing journey many took to come here seeking safety and pray that we stop tearing families apart, said Congresswoman DelBene. This is just one facet of our deeply flawed and broken immigration system that Congress has a moral obligation to address. This is an issue that is close to my heart, said Congresswoman Meng. I represent parts of Queens, NY and more than half of my constituents are foreign-born. Ive had parents come and talk to me about the difficulties of separation when their kids are in other countries. Ive had children whose parents are held in detention speak of their anguish over their fear of never seeing their loved ones again. Families belong together. We are here today because we want the release of mothers and their children from detention facilities. Our wish for the Holidays is for the Administration to release mothers and children from detention. It is the right thing to do. As a mother and as an immigrant who came to this country as a child, I join my colleagues in urging the administration to put an end to family detention, said Congresswoman Torres. We have more cost-effective and humane tools at our disposal to release families while ensuring they continue through the legal process. Its time to put an end to family detention for good. I cannot accept that this country puts innocent women and children into detention facilities that resemble the cruelty of Japanese incarceration, said Congresswoman Chu. And worse, as a psychologist, I know that any amount of time in detention risks harming childrens development and retraumatizing women fleeing violence. I was so moved to hear these childrens stories today and will not forget their pleas as we continue our fight to end family detention once and for all. There are so many organizations that are fighting to close these detention centers and I just ask God that they achieve that, said Caritza, the mother detained with her five-year-old son at Dilley. The kids hate to be locked up. My son would ask, When can we leave? When can we leave? The bottom line is that we know family detention is a dangerous policy that directly harms children. The research consistently shows that children who are detained even for a short period of time face risks to their overall development, including long-term psychological trauma and declining health, said Ms. Cervantes. No child should have to spend the holidays behind bars, and we urge the Administration to grant the wish of every child in who wrote a letter as part of this campaign by ending family detention once and for all. I remain concerned about the troublesome confinement conditions, the breaches of due process and the serious physical and mental health costs imposed on women and their children during their time in these family detention centers. These practices are simply inconsistent with our nations values and our laws, said Congresswoman Barbara Lee (CA-13). As we work to end these detentions, Congress must go even further. We must pass bipartisan comprehensive immigration reform to fix our broken system that cruelly tears families apart. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://gutierrez.house.gov/press-release/reps-kelly-and-guti%C3%A9rrez-invite-attorney-general-lynch-chicago-part-cpd-investigation,Reps. Kelly and Gutirrez Invite Attorney General Lynch to Chicago as Part of CPD Investigation,2015-12-09,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Luis Gutiérrez,G000535,gutierrez.house.gov,,,legacy,"Reps. Kelly and Gutirrez Invite Attorney GeneralLynch to Chicago as Part of CPD Investigation We are certain that this investigation will be vital to rebuilding trust and fosteringsafetyand the people of Chicago should partake in this process. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 9, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Representative Robin Kelly and Representative Luis V. Gutirrez sent a letter to Attorney General Loretta Lynch inviting her to visit Chicago as part of the investigation she has launched into the patterns and practices of the Chicago Police Department (CPD) in the wake of Laquan McDonalds murder by a Chicago police officer. They asked that the Attorney General meet with constituents and talk to stakeholders in each Congressional District in the City. The AG ought to visit personally and see the neighborhoods and talk with people in all of Chicagos diverse communities because we all interact with police and need to know they can be trusted, Rep. Gutirrez said. Ultimately, this is about building confidence in the police and getting them to work with the communities they protect and patrol. A visit from the Attorney General to meet with key stakeholders and constituents will signal to Chicagoans that the Department of Justice is making progress, Congresswoman Kelly said. People on the streets need to see that something is being done to help rebuild trust in law enforcement. When he was Attorney General, Eric Holder visited Ferguson, Missouri as part of his inquiry into civil rights, police practices, and local government issues after Michael Brown was killed by local police. The two Congressional Representatives hope Attorney General Lynch will make a similar visit to Chicago to hear directly from Chicagoans and examine issues personally. Rep. Kelly stated, Loretta Lynch has spent her entire professional life diligently working to bridge the divide between law enforcement and the communities they serve. I have full confidence that Attorney General Lynch actively leading the charge will allow for a robust investigation that is restorative for all of Chicago. I am confident the Attorney General and her staff are going to conduct a thorough and fair investigation, Rep. Gutirrez said, but one important step towards healing and restoring trust will be her personal involvement. Both Members of Congress pledged to cooperate with and monitor the Attorney Generals investigation and help her in any way possible. A copy of the letter from Reps. Kelly and Gutirrez to Attorney General Lynch is here: LINK (pdf). # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://bost.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/bost-urges-no-action-proposed-floodway-project,Bost Urges No Action on Proposed Floodway Project,2015-12-09,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,IL,Mike Bost,B001295,bost.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.This week, Rep. Mike Bost (IL-12) sent a letter to the Assistant Secretary of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers urging a halt to the potential construction of the St. Johns Bayou and New Madrid Floodway project in Missouri. Concerns have been raised that the Missouri project could increase flood risk on the Illinois side of the river, particularly in the city of Cairo. I believe that construction of the St. Johns Bayou project could further complicate the U.S. Army Corps decision-making on a potential future activation of the floodway, especially during rapidly unfolding emergencies like the Flood of 2011, said Rep. Bost. The New Madrid Floodway was authorized and constructed to reduce water levels during periods of extreme flows down the Mississippi River and the overall system should be managed by primarily for that purpose. For this reason, I urge you to consider a recommendation of no action on the construction project. The Army Corps of Engineers is in the process of completing a Final Environmental Impact Statement on the proposed project that will determine the agencys next course of action, such as whether to not to move forward with construction.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://bost.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/bost-votes-tighten-visa-security,Bost Votes to Tighten Visa Security,2015-12-09,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,IL,Mike Bost,B001295,bost.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.On Tuesday, Rep. Mike Bost (IL-12) voted to strengthen the security of the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) by supporting the bipartisan Visa Waiver Improvement and Terrorist Travel Prevention Act (H.R. 158). In a world that seemingly grows less safe by the day, this legislation addresses the vulnerabilities of the Visa Waiver Program by putting in place stronger security measures, said Rep. Bost. The bill requires participating countries to provide counterterrorism information and other critical intelligence for those who have traveled to terrorist hotspots, like Iraq and Syria. This is a common sense step forward in keeping American families safe. In order to address these vulnerabilities, the Visa Waiver Improvement and Terrorist Travel Prevention Act of 2015 will: Give the Secretary of Homeland Security the authority to suspend a countrys participation in the program if they fail to share counterterrorism information with the U.S.; Deny Visa Waiver Program status to those citizens from participating countries that have traveled to certain terrorist hotspots since 2011; Require all Visa Waiver Program countries use fraud resistant e-passports; and Allow for the suspension of high-risk countries.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://lipinski.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=91&itemid=2866,Rep. Lipinski Introduces Legislation to Protect Airline Passengers,2015-12-09,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Daniel Lipinski,L000563,lipinski.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Dan Lipinski (IL-3) has introduced the Comfortable and Fair Flights Act of 2015 to ensure that airline passengers have some basic rights and protections when traveling on commercial airlines. More and more, when airline passengers get on a flight they expect to suffer from uncomfortable conditions; as a frequent flyer I understand this, said Rep. Lipinski. One thing they should never have to worry about is access to a bathroom. Unfortunately, commercial flights are not required to depart with a functioning bathroom, sometimes forcing passengers to endure a trip without this basic necessity. Moreover, as ancillary fees continue to grow, the specter of an in-flight bathroom fee continues to loom in the background since first being broached in 2010. Additionally, many of us are all too familiar with paying baggage fees and have come to accept them as part of the flying experience. While lost and delayed baggage rates are declining, passengers who suffer from this inconvenience do so without the right to a refund, even after hours or days of delay. Simply put, if you pay for a service, you should get that service promptly or get your money back. Lipinskis Comfortable and Fair Flights Act of 2015 would remedy these issues with three straightforward provisions. First, if the bathrooms on an aircraft are not functioning properly before departure, passengers would have the option to change their flight plans without incurring a change fee. Second, no commercial airline would be permitted to charge a fee for lavatory use. Third, airlines would be required to refund bag fees to passengers who have had the arrival of their bags delayed by two or more hours. These are all common sense provisions that will help protect the consumer rights of passengers, stated Lipinski.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20160907044013/http://robinkelly.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/why-going-to-the-dentist-is-so-hard-for-the-elderly,Why going to the dentist is so hard for the elderly,2015-12-09,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Robin Kelly,K000385,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Kankakee City Hall 304 South Indiana Avenue lower level Kankakee, IL 60901 The office is located in Kankakee City Hall, on the lower level, at 304 South Indiana Avenue. It will be open on the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Constituents can receive assistance with Social Security and Veterans Administration claims and other issues involving federal agencies as well as get information on federal grants and programs. To schedule an appointment at the Kankakee office, please call (708) 679-0078.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20160907081110/http://robinkelly.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/defective-or-not-the-government-cant-recall-your-gun,"Defective or not, the government can't recall your gun",2015-12-09,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Robin Kelly,K000385,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Kankakee City Hall 304 South Indiana Avenue lower level Kankakee, IL 60901 The office is located in Kankakee City Hall, on the lower level, at 304 South Indiana Avenue. It will be open on the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Constituents can receive assistance with Social Security and Veterans Administration claims and other issues involving federal agencies as well as get information on federal grants and programs. To schedule an appointment at the Kankakee office, please call (708) 679-0078.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-announces-new-cybersucirty-team-to-be-headquartered-in-illinois,Durbin Announces New Cybersucirty Team to be Headquartered in Illinois,2015-12-09,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.09.15 Durbin Announces New Cybersucirty Team to be Headquartered in Illinois [WASHINGTON, DC] U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL), Vice Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Defense Subcommittee, announced today that the Illinois National Guard will be leading a new cyber protection team. The 39-person unit will be a joint mission with the Wisconsin National Guard and headquartered in Illinois. This new squadron gives the Illinois National Guard a leading role in supporting our national cybersecurity operations, which are critically important to our homeland security efforts, Durbin said. As Vice Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Defense Subcommittee, I am always proud to see Illinois defense installations play such an important and dynamic part of our nations defense. In meetings throughout the year with Secretary of the Army John McHugh, Army Chief of Staff Ray Odierno, Chief of the National Guard Bureau General Frank Grass, and others, Durbin has advocated for expanding Illinois role in cybersecurity defense operations. In 2014, Durbin announced the addition of two new cyber protection squadrons at Scott Air Force Base. As the Vice Chairman of the Senate Defense Appropriations Subcommittee, which oversees discretionary spending for our nations Armed Forces, Durbin has taken a leading role in helping maintain Illinois leadership in national defense, and in supporting Illinois defense installations including Scott Air Force Base, the Rock Island Arsenal, and Naval Station Great Lakes. Durbin also continues to lead bipartisan efforts among Illinois Congressional Delegation in pressing the Air Force and the Air National Guard to identify a new flying mission for the 183rd Fighter Wing in Springfield, Illinois. Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-applauds-passage-of-bill-that-promotes-student-success-and-replaces-no-child-left-behind,Durbin Applauds Passage of Bill that Promotes Student Success & Replaces No Child Left Behind,2015-12-09,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.09.15 Durbin Applauds Passage of Bill that Promotes Student Success & Replaces No Child Left Behind Legislation to reauthorize the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, invests in early childhood education and ensures districts like North Chicago can continue to qualify for essential Impact Aid funding [WASHINGTON, D.C.] U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) today applauded Senate passage of the bipartisan Every Student Succeeds Act Conference Report a bill to reauthorize the Elementary and Secondary Education Act and replace No Child Left Behind. The legislation passed the House of Representatives last week and will now go to President Obama for his signature. This bill is more directly tied to the future prosperity of the United States than virtually any other issue we face here in Congress. It will decide whether our children and grandchildren receive the quality education they deserve from preschool to high school and beyond, said Durbin. The Every Student Succeeds Act makes important improvements to our elementary and secondary education system. I was pleased to vote in favor of a bill to give parents, teachers, and principals back in Illinois a replacement to No Child Left Behind. The Every Student Succeeds Act updates the Impact Aid programs in a way that ensures districts like North Chicago, home to the Great Lakes Naval Base, continues to qualify for much needed assistance. The Every Student Succeeds Act includes a grant program to provide funding for states to improve coordination, quality, and access for early childhood education which is critical to making sure every child has a strong start in life. Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://foster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/foster-61-house-members-launch-call-to-fund-iaea-iranian-inspections,"Foster, 61 House Members Launch Call To Fund IAEA Iranian Inspections",2015-12-08,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Bill Foster,F000454,foster.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC Today, Representative Bill Foster (IL-11) sent a letter signed by 61 Members of Congress urging the House Appropriations Committee to ensure robust funding for the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). The IAEA is the organization tasked with verifying that states comply with their commitments under the Non-Proliferation Treaty and other non-proliferation agreements. The IAEA is responsible for ensuring successful implementation of the nuclear agreement negotiated with Iran earlier this year. A copy of the letter is available here. Ensuring that the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has sufficient funding is essential to the successful implementation of the Iranian nuclear agreement, and to our national security, said Foster. As we begin to develop and debate the Fiscal Year 2016 Omnibus Appropriations bill, we must ensure that the IAEA has the necessary funding to successfully carry out its duties. On October 18, 2015, the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) with Iran was formally adopted and the process of implementation began. As a result of the continuing costs of implementing monitoring and verification under the JCPOA, Director-General Yukiya Amano stated that the agency would require an additional $10.6 million annually. Although this is a shared cost among all member states, Congress has a responsibility to ensure that the IAEA is set up for success. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://hultgren.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/hultgren-religious-freedom-is-fundamental-to-our-founding-and-our,Hultgren: Religious Freedom is Fundamental to Our Founding and Our Constitution,2015-12-08,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,IL,Randy Hultgren,H001059,hultgren.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC U.S. Representative Randy Hultgren (IL-14), Executive-Committee Member of the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission and Commissioner on the Helsinki Commission, today released a statement on the ongoing discussion surrounding national security and the importance of defending the freedom of religion: In recent days, legitimate fears of national security have strayed into proposals that violate one of our most fundamental constitutional principles: freedom of religion. This foundational freedom protected by our Constitution is the basis of our society and inherent to human dignity. Singling out any faith community for the actions of extremists is not conservative, it is hostile to our founding, it would never pass Congress and it is a distraction from our efforts to truly increase the security of our nation. Terrorism must be fought head-on with strong but smart and constitutional methods. We must refocus our efforts on finding and plugging the gaps in our security measures, while ensuring we remain a refuge for those fleeing persecution of all kinds. As an Executive-Committee Member of the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission, Commissioner on the Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe (Helsinki Commission) and Commissioner on the Congressional-Executive Commission on China, Rep. Hultgren has fought repeatedly to defend the freedom of religion and belief, including: In his latest effort to tighten national security, today Rep. Hultgren supported House passage of H.R. 158, the Visa Waver Program Improvement and Terrorist Travel Prevention Act, which closes gaps and adds additional layers of protection to the program. Click here to learn more. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://hultgren.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/hultgren-votes-to-reform-visa-waiver-program-as-responsible-security-measure,Hultgren Votes to Reform Visa Waiver Program as Responsible Security Measure,2015-12-08,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,IL,Randy Hultgren,H001059,hultgren.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC U.S. Representative Randy Hultgren (IL-14) today supported House passage (407 to 19) of H.R. 158, the Visa Waver Program Improvement and Terrorist Travel Prevention Act. The bill closes gaps and adds additional layers of protection to the program. For years, our Visa Waiver Program has allowed U.S. citizens and our key trade and tourism partners to enjoy ease of travel, contributing to economic growth and improved international relations. However, recent events have exposed vulnerabilities in the program, including failures in the sharing of counterterrorism intelligence in a timely manner, said Rep. Hultgren. This reform legislation is a responsible way to target our security weaknesses while respecting our nations fundamental principles that have made it a beacon of hope. Created in 1986, the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) allows more than 20 million people annually from 38 participating countries, ranging from Australia to the United Kingdom, to more easily travel to the United States for up to 90 days. Instead of going to a U.S. consulate or embassy, citizens of participating countries must provide detailed background information that is then screened against U.S. security systems. It is estimated that approximately 5,000 Europeans have traveled to Syria and Iraq to join ISIS, many of whom are from countries that participate in the VWP. Yet, many of these countries fail to provide the U.S. intelligence community with critical information needed to ensure those traveling under the VWP are not a threat to the United States. In order to address these vulnerabilities, the Visa Waiver Improvement and Terrorist Travel Prevention Act of 2015: Gives the Secretary of Homeland Security the authority to suspend a countrys participation in the program if they fail to share counterterrorism information with the United States. Denies Visa Waiver Program status to those citizens from participating countries that have traveled to certain terrorist hotspots since 2011. Requires all Visa Waiver Program countries use fraud resistant e-passports. Allows for the suspension of high-risk countries. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://kinzinger.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=399266,Kinzinger Votes to Reform Visa Waiver Program,2015-12-08,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,IL,Adam Kinzinger,K000378,kinzinger.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Adam Kinzinger voted for H.R. 158, the Visa Waiver Improvement and Terrorist Travel Prevention Act. The bipartisan legislation makes reforms to the Visa Waiver Program in light of recent terrorist attacks and concerns that security gaps in the program could make it easier for foreign fighters and terrorists to enter the United States. share: f t Congressman Adam Kinzinger voted for H.R. 158, the Visa Waiver Improvement and Terrorist Travel Prevention Act. The bipartisan legislation makes reforms to the Visa Waiver Program in light of recent terrorist attacks and concerns that security gaps in the program could make it easier for foreign fighters and terrorists to enter the United States. Having fought against radical Islamic terrorism during tours of duty in Iraq and Afghanistan, keeping Americans safe from harm continues to be my top priority in Congress. said Congressman Kinzinger. The bipartisan legislation will help close security gaps in the Visa Waiver Program and enforce stricter guidelines for individuals and countries to participate, further preventing terrorists from exploiting this program to harm Americans. Created in 1986, the Visa Waiver Program allows more than 20 million people annually from 38 participating countries to more easily travel to the U.S. for up to 90 days. It is estimated that approximately 5,000 Europeans have traveled to Syria and Iraq to join ISIS, many of whom are from countries that participate in the Visa Waiver Program. Many of these countries fail to provide the U.S. intelligence community with critical information needed to ensure those traveling under the Visa Waiver Program are not a threat to the United States. In order to address these vulnerabilities, the H.R. 158, the Visa Waiver Improvement and Terrorist Travel Prevention Act of 2015: Gives the Secretary of Homeland Security the authority to suspend a countrys participation in the program if they fail to share counterterrorism information with the U.S. Denies Visa Waiver Program status to those citizens from participating countries that have traveled to certain terrorist hotspots since 2011 Requires all Visa Waiver Program countries use fraud resistant e-passports Allows for the suspension of high-risk countries ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://quigley.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/quigley-continues-to-support-syrian-refugee-resettlement,Quigley Continues to Support Syrian Refugee Resettlement,2015-12-08,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Mike Quigley,Q000023,quigley.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON U.S. Representative Mike Quigley (IL-05), a member of theHouse Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence (HPSCI), showed support for the continued acceptance of Syrian and Iraqi refugees by signing on to three separate letters that reject attempts to use critical year-end spending legislation to block the acceptance of refugees and encourage additional funding specific to refugee resettlement in order to make the processing of refugee applications more efficient. Americans are understandably concerned about their safety following the recent devastating terrorist attacks in Paris and mass shooting in San Bernardino, California. But as President Obama stressed in is his speech to the nation Sunday night, we cannot betray our values and turn against one another by letting this fight be defined as a war between America and Islam, said Rep. Quigley. In response to the growing threat, we must ensure that our screening procedures for anyone coming to this country, including refugees, are as strong and secure as possible. That is why I am calling for additional funding in the omnibus specific to refugee resettlement. However, I will continue to urge my colleagues to keep controversial changes to the refugee screening and resettlement policies out of the omnibus. It is neither the time nor the place to insert broad changes to the program where they cannot be properly debated or amended. And as the president said, it is the responsibility of Muslims around the world to root out misguided ideas that lead to radicalization, just as it is the responsibility of all Americans of every faith to reject discrimination. Rep. Quigley signed onto a letter led by Rep. John Delaney (MD-06) to the Chairs and Ranking Members of the House and Senate Appropriations Committees to encourage additional funding specific to refugee resettlement. The U.S. has a thorough system in place for screening the refugees and additional funding would help make the processing of refugee applications even more secure. Programs that need additional funding include the Department of States Bureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration, the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Refugee Resettlement, and the Department of Homeland Securitys U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. RepQuigley signed onto a similar letter led by Rep. Juan Vargas (CA-51) to House Appropriations Committee Chairman Hal Rogers (KY-05) and Ranking Member Nita Lowey (NY-17) to provide sufficient funding to meet the needs of refugee assistance and resettlement programs for FY16. Finally, Rep. Quigley joined a letter with Rep. Jared Polis (CO-02) opposing controversial riders regarding Syrian refugees in FY16 omnibus. The letter points out that adding policy changes to the year-end spending bill would eliminate the opportunity to properly debate or amend the language. In September, Rep. Quigley joined with 70 House colleagues in urging President Obama to resettle at least 100,000 refugees from the ongoing conflict in Syria. He also joined 54 House members in urging the president to call for international negotiations to bring an end to the conflict in Syria. As a member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence (HPSCI), Rep. Quigley believes government has both the capability and responsibility to play a crucial role in protecting our nations security and protecting the civil liberties of its citizens. He continues to build a record as an advocate for public safety and national security issues, a guardian of civil liberties, and a champion of government transparency and accountability. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://rodneydavis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398883,Davis Votes to Strengthen National Security,2015-12-08,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,IL,Rodney Davis,D000619,rodneydavis.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC U.S. Rep. Rodney Davis (R-Ill.) tonight released the following statement after the House passed H.R. 158, the Visa Waiver Improvement and Terrorist Travel Prevention Act by a bipartisan vote of 407-19. H.R. 158 requires dual nationals and individuals who have traveled since March 2011 to countries of concern and State Sponsors of Terrorism including Iraq, Syria, and Iran to obtain a visa before coming to the U.S. This is the second bill passed by the House to responsibly prevent terrorists from entering the U.S.The fundamental role of government is to protect the people it represents and Americans deserve to know that we are doing everything we can to keep them safe, said Davis. This bill helps prevent terrorists from being able to travel to the U.S. by securing the visa waiver program. The House will continue to pass laws to responsibly strengthen our national security but only our commander in chief can provide the leadership necessary to destroy ISIS. We need a comprehensive strategy to defeat these terrorists who seek to harm Americans. The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) allows more than 20 million people annually from 38 participating countries, including France, Britain, and Germany, to more easily travel to the U.S. for up to 90 days. Instead of going to a U.S. consulate or embassy, citizens of participating countries must provide detailed background information that is then screened against U.S. security systems. But many of these countries fail to provide critical information needed to ensure those traveling under the VWP are not a threat. It is estimated that approximately 5,000 Europeans have traveled to Syria and Iraq to join ISIS, many are from countries that participate in the VWP. In order to address these vulnerabilities, H.R. 158 makes the following changes to the VWP: Gives the Secretary of Homeland Security the authority to suspend a countrys participation in the program if they fail to share counterterrorism information with the U.S. Denies Visa Waiver Program status to those citizens from participating countries that have traveled to certain terrorist hotspots since 2011 Requires all Visa Waiver Program countries use fraud resistant e-passports Allows for the suspension of high-risk countries Last month, the House passed the American Security Against Foreign Enemies (SAFE) Act to ensure comprehensive background checks are conducted on every Syrian and Iraqi refugee seeking admittance into the U.S. The SAFE Act requires the FBI director to certify the background investigation of each refugee and then the secretary of homeland security, the FBI director, and the director of national intelligence must all certify to Congress that each refugee is not a security threat before they can be admitted to the U.S.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-inflammatory-hateful-rhetoric-does-not-reflect-who-we-are-as-americans,"Durbin: Inflammatory, Hateful Rhetoric Does Not Reflect Who We Are as Americans",2015-12-08,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.08.15 Durbin: Inflammatory, Hateful Rhetoric Does Not Reflect Who We Are as Americans Senator, Illinois Methodist Bishop Sally Dyck, and others reject efforts to exclude all Muslim immigrants [WASHINGTON, DC] Amid statements and inflammatory rhetoric that unfairly vilify billions of Muslims, U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) spoke on the Senate Floor today to call for thoughtfulness and tolerance that reflect the fundamental values of this country. Today, Durbin was also joined by Bishop Sally Dyck of the Northern Illinois Conference of the United Methodist Church at a press conference to speak out against inflammatory rhetoric directed at refugees and Muslims. Ive met some of these refugees in the City of Chicago. Some of them waited up to two years after they were being investigated and interviewed and fingerprinted before they could come to the United States. They come here simply to start a new life in a safe place and to raise their children. It really is what motivated people across the span of history to come to this great nation, and these refugees are no different, Durbin said. The fact that the Republicans would start by excluding refugees and now Mr. Trump is taking it to the extreme of excluding people of a religious faith the Muslim religion is an indication of a conversation in American politics which needs to stop. We need to reflect once again on the fundamental principles of this question and the fundamental values of this country as well. Video of Durbins remarks on the Senate Floor is available here. Audio of Durbins remarks on the Senate Floor is available here. Footage of Durbin remarks on the Senate Floor is available for TV Stations using FTP in high definition here and in standard definition here. Today, Durbin joined U.S. Senators Pat Leahy (D-VT) and Tim Kaine (D-VA) and a coalition of national faith leaders from across the religious spectrum, including Bishop Sally Dyck of the Northern Illinois Conference of the United Methodist Church, to call for smart, moral policymaking over reactionary fear-mongering. Video of Durbins remarks is available here. Video of Bishop Dycks remarks is available here. Durbin recently met with Syrian refugees who have resettled in Chicago, as well as representatives from Chicagos Syrian community and local relief agencies. Durbin has also called on Governor Bruce Rauner to drop his opposition to resettling Syrian refugees in Illinois and to meet with the Syrian refugee families in the state. Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-meets-with-amtrak-board-member-tom-carper-to-discuss-passenger-rail-in-illinois,Durbin Meets with Amtrak Board Member Tom Carper to Discuss Passenger Rail in Illinois,2015-12-08,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.08.15 Durbin Meets with Amtrak Board Member Tom Carper to Discuss Passenger Rail in Illinois [WASHINGTON, D.C.] Following Congressional passage of a four-year reauthorization of Amtrak, U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) met today with former Mayor of Macomb, Illinois and current member of the Amtrak Board of Directors, Tom Carper, to discuss the importance of Illinois passenger rail network. A photo of todays meeting is available here. As a longtime Amtrak Board Member and the former Mayor of Macomb, which sits along Amtraks Illinois Zephyr and Carl Sandburg lines, Tom Carper in one of Illinois passenger rails strongest allies, Durbin said. Congress must also do its part by providing Amtrak with the resources it needs to continue modernizing our transportation system and creating jobs. Amtrak operates 56 trains a day in Illinois, and ridership in Illinois is up 18 percent over the past five years. Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/icymi-durbin-challenges-for-profit-colleges-to-explain-why-they-account-for-40-of-student-loan-defaults-by-only-educate-10-of-students,ICYMI: Durbin Challenges For-Profit Colleges to Explain Why They Account for 40% of Student Loan Defaults by Only Educate 10% of Students,2015-12-08,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.08.15 ICYMI: Durbin Challenges For-Profit Colleges to Explain Why They Account for 40% of Student Loan Defaults by Only Educate 10% of Students Durbin was also critical of Republican attempts to shield for-profit colleges from the Education Departments Gainful Employment Rule [WASHINGTON, D.C.] In a speech on the Senate floor today, U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) challenged the for-profit college industry to explain how they can account for 40% of student loan defaults but only educate 10% of students and only 20% of federal student aid. The Department of Education has developed responsible criteria for determining whether career education programs adequately prepare their students for gainful employment as is required by law. The Gainful Employment Rule ensures that students who graduate from a covered program of study are able to get a job that allows them to manage the student debt they take on in the process, said Durbin. How can Republicans in Congress block implementation of this commonsense rule in the wake of what weve just seen with Corinthian? Click on the video below to watch Senator Durbins speech in full on his YouTube page. Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://gutierrez.house.gov/press-release/rep-guti%C3%A9rrez-welcomes-doj-investigation,Rep. Gutirrez Welcomes DOJ Investigation,2015-12-07,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Luis Gutiérrez,G000535,gutierrez.house.gov,,,legacy,"It is a vital step in making surewe prevent more murders and violence in Chicago. Washington, DC On Monday, the Department of Justice announced it was opening an investigation into the Chicago Police Department (CPD) after the murder of Laquan McDonald, a Chicago teenager shot by a CPD officer more than a year ago. Congressman Luis V. Gutirrez, who was among those who requested the investigation, said he was pleased with the news. The following is a statement from the Congressman: Anybody who has seen the videotape of Laquan McDonald being shot and killed can see that current practices of the Chicago Police Department need review both internally and externally. But even before the videotape was released, having grown up in the city of Chicago, I knew there were long-term issues of trust, accountability, use of force, and secrecy that have frayed the bonds between the CPD and the communities they are sworn to protect and serve. Last week I joined Senator Dick Durbin, Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan, the ACLU, and others in calling for the Department of Justice to investigate the Chicago Police Department to ensure that their policies and practices are in line with federal law and the Constitution. I think every level of government involved in the Laquan McDonald murder deserves investigation and accountability and the broader issues of transparency, trust, and community oversight must be examined. These are issues both the Justice Department and the newly-appointed commission working with former Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick will be looking at. It is a vital step in making sure we prevent more murders and violence in Chicago. Last week, Rep. Gutirrez wrote to Attorney General Loretta Lynch asking for such an investigation. His letter is here: (pdf) Rep. Gutirrez represents the Fourth District of Illinois, is a Member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, is a Member of the Judiciary Committee and the Subcommittee on Immigration and Border Security, and the Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, Homeland Security and Investigations. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://hultgren.house.gov/newsroom/in-the-news/anderson-road-extension-bridge-now-open-in-elburn,"Anderson Road extension, bridge now open in Elburn",2015-12-07,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,IL,Randy Hultgren,H001059,hultgren.house.gov,,,legacy,"ELBURN A large red, white and blue ribbon was stretched across Anderson Road on Monday morning, held by officials who also carried pairs of scissors. The scene was the grand finale to the opening ceremony to mark the opening of the Anderson Road extension, which includes a bridge to cross over the Union Pacific tracks on the south side of town. Elburn officials were joined by those from Kane County, Kaneland School District 302 and Illinois and federal government at the ceremony, which took place at the intersection of Anderson Road and Prairie Valley Street, just east of Kaneland John Stewart Elementary School. Fifth-graders from the school sang the national anthem at the beginning of the ceremony. By 10:35 a.m., after speeches from Elburn Village President Dave Anderson, Kane County Board Chairman Chris Lauzen, Kane County Board member Drew Frasz and U.S. Rep. Randy Hultgren, R-Plano, the extension was open. Featuring a 45 mph speed limit, the extension allows traffic south through Keslinger Road, with access to the Metra station in Elburn. Noting the children who performed at the ceremony, Lauzen pointed out that ""by the time these children are our ages, they will already have a half-century of using this bridge."" The bridge crossing allows drivers to travel from Route 38 to Keslinger Road without having to wait for a train. In the past, officials have pointed to a study that showed 105 trains per day passed through the village.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://robinkelly.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-kelly-statement-on-the-inclusion-of-the-kelly-amendment-to,"Congresswoman Kelly Statement on the inclusion of the Kelly Amendment to S. 1177, the Every Student Succeeds Act",2015-12-07,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Robin Kelly,K000385,robinkelly.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congress recently passed legislation which included an amendment offered by Congresswoman Robin Kelly (IL-02) promoting adult literacy and financial literacy in communities across the country. Kellys proposal ensured that Family Engagement in Education Programs covered under S. 1177, the Every Student Succeeds Act conduct adult and financial literacy in order to engage families and improve academic outcomes for students. Im proud that my colleagues were able to come together to replace No Child Left Behind, an outdated education law that no longer reflects todays education needs. With the passage of this crucial bill, our schools will have the data and resources they need to ensure that all students can receive a well-rounded, comprehensive education. The passage of the Every Student Succeeds Act isnt just a win for our youth, but for adults as well. Im glad that my colleagues recognized the importance of adult literacy and financial literacy by keeping my amendment in the final conference bill. With more than 30 million American adults who have a hard time reading and millions more currently struggling with basic financial literacy, this is an issue that we need to address immediately. My amendment ensures that we dont forget about adult education in our first comprehensive education bill since 2001. The Every Student Succeeds Act is a Reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act. The bill passed the House in a 359-64 vote.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://robinkelly.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-kelly-supports-civil-rights-investigation-into-chicago,Congresswoman Kelly Supports Civil Rights Investigation into Chicago Police Department,2015-12-07,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Robin Kelly,K000385,robinkelly.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congresswoman Robin Kelly issued the following statement regarding the Department of Justices decision to investigate the Chicago Police in the wake of the Laquan McDonald Case: I applaud U.S. Attorney General Loretta Lynchs decision to investigate the processes and procedures of the Chicago Police Department to get at the heart of the lingering questions raised not only by the fatal police shooting of Laquan McDonald, but by past incidents involving CPD officers that have eroded public trust in the department. The McDonald case is emblematic of a larger, pervasive problem with policing in America. From Ferguson to Cleveland, from Baltimore to New York City, we have seen example after example of police interactions resulting in the wrongful death of a person of color. The pain of these killings for the victims families and the communities at large is then compounded by the evasive and circuitous actions of law enforcement and local officials designed to frustrate justice. This now predictable pattern has fostered deep mistrust and fear of law enforcement in communities of color, undermining the many good police officers who serve honorably every day and erecting a barrier between the police and the community that jeopardizes public safety. I believe this examination is essential to establishing a national standard for effective policing in communities of color. It is also a vital step in restoring the publics trust in law enforcement by helping to create a fairer, more equitable system of justice for all Americans. Congresswoman Robin Kelly is Vice Chair of the House Democratic Caucus Gun Violence Prevention Task Force.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://rush.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rush-statement-on-doj-investigation-of-cpd,Rush Statement on DOJ investigation of CPD,2015-12-07,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Bobby Rush,R000515,rush.house.gov,,,legacy,"CHICAGO Today, U.S. Representative Bobby L. Rush (D-Ill.) released the following statement after U.S. Attorney General Loretta Lynch announced that the United States Department of Justice (DOJ) will investigate the Chicago Police Department (CPD). The DOJ investigation comes after the release of a CPD dash cam video showing the shooting death of Laquan McDonald: Finally, we have just received official word that our pleas, petitions and prayers have been honored. The welcome news that the U.S. Justice Department will finally investigate the patterns and practices of the Chicago Police Department gives us hope. We fully expect that that the systemic problems that have caused deep-seated mistrust between minority citizens of this city and the Chicago Police Department will come to a screeching halt. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/citing-recent-outrageous-examples-durbin-calls-on-ftc-to-review-sharp-spikes-in-drug-pricing,"Citing Recent Outrageous Examples, Durbin Calls on FTC to Review Sharp Spikes in Drug Pricing",2015-12-07,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.07.15 Citing Recent Outrageous Examples, Durbin Calls on FTC to Review Sharp Spikes in Drug Pricing Senator also says FTC should scrutinize mergers and acquisitions for their potential impact on drug pricing decisions [WASHINGTON, D.C.] In a meeting today with the Chairwoman of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) called on the agency to make a timely review of any reported sharp spike in drug pricing such as a 100% or more manufacturer price increase within a short time period to determine if any anticompetitive actions have taken place. Citing FTCs authority to review and block pharmaceutical mergers if there is risk of diminished competition, Durbin also urged Chairwoman Edith Ramirez to carefully scrutinize mergers and acquisitions for their potential impact on drug pricing decisions. Access to prescription drugs is a life or death matter for many Americans, said Durbin. Sudden, unexplained price spikes could put people at risk of losing access to these essential medications. Pharmaceutical companies have a right to make a reasonable profit, but they also have a responsibility to play by the rules and be responsible market participants. If they are not, the federal government should step in and investigate. There have been a number of recent examples of brand name and generic drug companies rapidly raising the price of prescription drugs. Confusion, anger, and calls for a regulatory response have come after price spikes on the following drugs: Isuprel & Nitropress: It was reported that prices of Isuprel and Nitropress both used by cardiac patients immediately rose by 525% and 212% respectively after the two drugs were acquired by Valeant Pharmaceuticals from Marathon Pharmaceuticals in February 2015. Glumetza: It was reported that in 2015, the price of Glumetza rose by 550% over the course of 2015. Its price for 90 tablets increased from $896 in Jan. 2013 to $10,020 as of July 31. Daraprim: In August 2015, it was reported that the price of the prescription drug Daraprim used to treat toxoplasmosis in AIDS patients immediately rose from $13.50 to $750 a tablet after the drug was acquired by Turing Pharmaceuticals. Cycloserine: In August 2015, it was reported that the price of Cycloserine used to treat multidrug-resistant tuberculosis immediately rose $500 to $10,800 for 30 capsules after the drug was acquired by Rodelis Therapeutics from the Purdue Research Foundation. After public outcry, Rodelis agreed to return the drug to the Foundation in September, 2015, who is now charging $1,050 for 30 capsules. Vimovo: It was reported that the price of Vimovo a pain reliever immediately rose by 597% after the drug was acquired by Horizon Pharma from AstraZeneca in 2013. Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-congress-must-close-dangerous-loopholes-to-reduce-horrific-gun-violence,Durbin: Congress Must Close Dangerous Loopholes to Reduce Horrific Gun Violence,2015-12-07,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.07.15 Durbin: Congress Must Close Dangerous Loopholes to Reduce Horrific Gun Violence [WASHINGTON, DC] In the wake of both recent mass shooting tragedies and the daily toll of gun violence across the America, U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) spoke on the Senate Floor today to call for commonsense reforms to close loopholes in gun laws. During his remarks, Durbin discussed the proliferation of crime guns trafficked into Chicago from outside the city, where less stringent gun regulations make it easier to purchase firearms. Cant we agree even among those people who own guns, who value them, who use them for sport, hunting or self-defense cant we agree that keeping guns out of the hands of convicted felons and mentally unstable people is the starting point? They did a review of the crime guns that were seized at the highest crime areas in the City of Chicago. And they found out that 40 percent of the guns used in the commission of crime in some of the deadliest precincts of Chicago came from Northwest Indiana gun shows. Why? Well, because you dont go through a background check if you buy from certain people at a gun show. And when they say, well, you know, its a shame they have so much gun violence in Chicago because you know they have some of the strictest laws on the books. Well, those strict laws dont apply when you cross the state line to Indiana. And sadly, those strict laws dont apply as they should across the United States. Video of Durbins remarks on the Senate Floor is available here. Audio of Durbins remarks on the Senate Floor is available here. Footage of Durbin remarks on the Senate Floor is available for TV Stations using FTP in high definition here and in standard definition here. Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-on-doj-investigation-this-is-an-opportunity-not-a-penalty,"Durbin on DOJ Investigation: This is an Opportunity, Not a Penalty",2015-12-07,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.07.15 Durbin on DOJ Investigation: This is an Opportunity, Not a Penalty WASHINGTONU.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) released the following statement after Attorney General Loretta Lynch announced a Department of Justice Civil Rights Division investigation of the Chicago Police Department (CPD)s policies and practices.Durbin asked for the investigation Thursday in a letter that can be found HERE. The overwhelming majority of our law enforcement officers do the right thing every day, and many risk their lives doing it. This investigation shouldnt be viewed as a penalty, but rather as an opportunity. An impartial investigation can help identify those areas where the CPD has fallen short and guide the Department onto a better course. These investigations in other major cities have led to critical reforms that improve the safety of police and the communities they serve.These reforms coordinated with the Justice Department are currently underway in cities like Seattle; Pittsburgh; Cleveland; Albuquerque; New Orleans; and Portland, Oregon. To take just one example, an investigation of the Seattle Police Department found that officers had used force in 70% of encounters with people with mental illness. Since a consent decree was entered, officers have used force in less than 2% of encounters with people with mental illness.And all serious uses of force are now being investigated by a specialized review team, resulting in improvements to tactics, training and policy. Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://rodneydavis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398877,Davis Statement on Presidents Oval Office Address to the Nation,2015-12-06,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,IL,Rodney Davis,D000619,rodneydavis.house.gov,,,legacy,"Davis Statement on Presidents Oval Office Address to the Nation f t # e Washington, D.C., December 6, 2015 U.S. Rep. Rodney Davis (R-Ill.) tonight released the following statement after President Obama addressed the nation from the Oval Office:""First and foremost, my thoughts and prayers continue to be with the people impacted by the terrible tragedy in San Bernardino, California. This act of terror was yet another horrific reminder of the need to destroy ISIS. Tonight, I had hoped to hear of a stronger, more comprehensive strategy to defeat ISIS because despite the president's claim that ISIS has been contained, it is clear their reach and influence is growing. But unfortunately, what we heard tonight was much of the same. Not only do we need a plan to destroy them abroad but we also must take additional steps to protect Americans here at home. The House has passed legislation to prevent ISIS from infiltrating the refugee program and this week we will act on legislation to secure our visa-waiver program."" Last month, the House passed the American Security Against Foreign Enemies (SAFE) Act to ensure comprehensive background checks are conducted on every Syrian and Iraqi refugee seeking admittance into the U.S. The SAFE Act requires the FBI director to certify the background investigation of each refugee and then the secretary of homeland security, the FBI director, and the director of national intelligence must all certify to Congress that each refugee is not a security threat before they can be admitted to the U.S. This week, the House will vote on the Visa Waiver Improvement and Terrorist Travel Prevention Act of 2015, which requires dual nationals and individuals who have traveled since March 2011 to certain countries of concern and State Sponsors of Terrorism including Iraq, Syria, and Iran to obtain a visa before coming to the U.S. f t # e",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-schakowsky-quigley-urge-illinoisans-to-get-covered-before-aca-enrollment-deadline,"Durbin, Schakowsky, Quigley Urge Illinoisans to Get Covered Before ACA Enrollment Deadline",2015-12-06,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.06.15 Durbin, Schakowsky, Quigley Urge Illinoisans to Get Covered Before ACA Enrollment Deadline CHICAGO With an important Affordable Care Act deadline less than two weeks away, U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL), U.S. Representatives Jan Schakowsky (D-IL-09) and Mike Quigley (D-IL-05), and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Region V Director Kathleen Falk today urged the remaining uninsured and those wishing to re-enroll to take action before the December 15th deadline in order to get health care coverage that starts in January. Open enrollment for 2016 coverage runs from November 1, 2015 to January 31, 2016, but for coverage to start January 1, people must sign up by December 15th. Illinoisans can enroll by visiting GetCoveredIllinois.gov, calling 866-311-1119 or attending upcoming local events where trained professionals will be offering free and confidential assistance. The Affordable Care Act has addressed some of the most glaring gaps in Americas healthcare system. It helps Illinoisans who are self-employed, starting a business, between jobs, or recently out of school get the health care security they deserve, Durbin said. Picking the right health insurance for you and your family can be difficult. But it isnt impossible, and there are people to help you. Im happy to be here today to encourage people in Illinois to take advantage of all the ACA has to offer and sign up now for affordable health care coverage for next year. Over 17 million Americans are already enjoying the benefits of affordable, quality health care coverage, said Rep. Schakowsky. It is vital that all Americans who don't have healthcare coverage sign up and get covered, andthat those already in the Exchange shop to make sure that they are in a plan that includes their doctors. Before Congress passed the Affordable Care Act, premiums were rising three times faster than wages, the rising costs of health care were hurting small businesses, and Americas were denied coverage because of preexisting conditions. But now, thanks to the ACA, all Americans have access to affordable health insurance, said Rep. Quigley. Tremendous progress was made in the Latino community specifically, as 4.2 million Latinos gained health care coverage under ACA. Im proud to join my colleagues Senator Durbin and Congresswoman Schakowsky to ensure that all Chicagoans sign up for the early deadline to ensure coverage by January 1st. We are working hard to make it easier to get covered in fact, you can even do so on your cell phone!but it takes the hard work of leaders and partners in the community to get the word out, said Falk. That is why we are so grateful for the leadership and efforts of Senator Durbin, Congresswoman Schakowsky, and Congressman Quigley. More than 800,000 people in Illinois now have health insurance through the Marketplace or Medicaid. About 240,000 of those people who purchased a plan through GetCoveredIllinois.gov receive a subsidy to help pay for that coverage. Of the remaining uninsured who qualify for the Marketplace, more than 7 out of 10 are employed. Almost 40 percent of the uninsured are earning between 139 and 250 percent of the poverty levelwhich is about 30 to 60 thousand dollars a year for a family of four. In addition, almost half are between the ages of 18 and 34. Many plans have changed significantly for 2016 so consumers are encouraged to check out the plans online or through a navigator to make sure they're enrolled in the plan that best meets their budget and health needs. More than half of Illinoisans will be able to buy a plan for $75 or less a month in premiums after tax credits, and over 9 out of 10 returning Illinoisans could save an average of $1,030 annually in premiums (before tax credits) for a plan in the same level of coverage by returning to shop. -30-? Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-statement-on-president-obamas-address-to-the-nation,Durbin Statement on President Obama's Address to the Nation,2015-12-06,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.06.15 Durbin Statement on President Obama's Address to the Nation WASHINGTONU.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) released the following statement on President Obamas address to the nation from the Oval Office: The world has witnessed acts of evil in the past several weeks, from Beirut and Paris to Colorado Springs and San Bernardino. As the President said tonight, in our darkest moments, when innocent civilians are gunned down in horrific massacres, it is how we respond, how we band together to fight terror itself that defines who we are as Americans. The threat from terrorism is real, but we will overcome it. The President outlined a plan to combat ISIL in the Middle East without getting American forces mired in a new, protracted ground war. He called on Congress to again vote on legislation to prohibit suspected terrorists from purchasing firearms in this country, and I will continue to push for that until we close this dangerous loophole. He challenged Congress to tighten vulnerabilities in the Visa Waiver Program. And finally, the President called on Congress to vote on a new authorization on the use of military force to combat ISIL. I support him in that. There may be a tendency to panic after these attacksbut oftentimes our first reactions are overreactions. Make no mistake: that is precisely what terrorists want. They commit these atrocities to disrupt our lives, make us look over our shoulders, and to turn neighbor against neighbor in fear. We cannot allow the United States to fall into that trap. America has a proud history of responding to tragedy with compassion for those impacted, and steady resolve to prevent future attacks. We must continue it in defiance of this evil. Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-lake-county-community-leaders-discuss-initiatives-to-combat-heroin-epidemic,"Durbin, Lake County Community Leaders Discuss Initiatives to Combat Heroin Epidemic",2015-12-04,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.04.15 Durbin, Lake County Community Leaders Discuss Initiatives to Combat Heroin Epidemic [LIBERTYVILLE, IL] As heroin overdose deaths rise in Illinois and across the country,U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) today met with members of the Lake County Opioid Initiative to discuss overdose-prevention and treatment strategies. Durbinalso discussedrecently co-sponsored bills to expand treatment for heroin addiction and expand access to naloxone - a drug that counters the effects of an opioid overdose - and other drug prevention programs that have been proven to save lives. Communities across the nation, and here in Illinois, are waking up to an epidemic of prescription opioid abuse, compounded only by the torrent of cheap heroin coming from Mexico. Lake County is no exception, Durbin said. With heroin and opioid use on the rise, we should be doing everything we can to give first-responders access to life-saving drugs likenaloxone. I will continue to work to ensure that community groups and first responders on the front lines have the resources they need to prevent more individuals from falling victim to opioid abuse. Since 1999, the number of drug overdose deaths in the United States has more than doubled, and in most states the number now exceeds the number of traffic-related deaths.Drug overdose deaths are now the leading cause of preventable injury death, resulting in nearly 44,000 deaths each year, with most involving either prescription opioids or heroin. In Illinois, there were 1,652 overdose deaths in 2014 an increase of nearly 29 percent since 2010. In Lake County 39 people died from heroin related overdose in 2011, 48 in 2012, 23 in 2013, 38 in 2014, and 29 in 2015 as of November 1. In June, Durbin introduced the Overdose Prevention Act which aims to decrease the rate of drug overdose deaths by improving access to naloxone. The bill would provide funding to community-based organizations to purchase and distribute naloxone, and carry out overdose prevention activities, such as educating prescribers and pharmacists or training first responders. In November, the FDA approved a new even easier to use naloxone nasal spray. According to the Lake County Opioid Initiative, more than 40 lives have been saved by naloxone in Lake County since first responders started carrying it in 2014. Naloxone has no side effects or potential for abuse, and is widely recognized as an important tool to help prevent drug overdose deaths, but many communities struggle to get naloxone to those on the front lines who need it most. The Centers for Disease Control earlier this year published an analysis showing that between 1996 and 2014, more than 150,000 laypersons at risk of witnessing an overdose were trained in administering naloxone and saved more than 26,000 lives across the country. Thousands of these reversals were in Illinois. Durbin has also cosponsored legislation to lift the cap on the number of patients physicians can treat using medication assisted therapies. Illinois ranked first in the U.S. for its decline in treatment capacity between 2007 and 2012, and had the lowest rate of state-funded treatment compared to other Midwestern states. The Recovery Enhancement for Addiction Treatment Act (TREAT Act) would not only lift the federal limits on the number of patients a doctor can treat with methadone, but it would also enable nurse practitioners and physicians assistants trained in addiction medicine to treat patients with medication assisted therapies. Following the introduction of the bill, the U.S.Department of Health and Human Services announced that it will revise regulations related to the prescribing of buprenorphine to expand access to medication-assisted treatment. In October President Obama announced new federal, state, local and private sector efforts to address both the prescription drug and heroin abuse epidemics. These include revising regulations that cap the number of patients a doctor may treat at one time with buprenorphine, thus expanding access to medication-assisted treatment for opioid use. The administration is working to double the number of physicians certified to prescribe buprenorphine as treatment for opioid use, from 30,000 to 60,000 over the next three years. Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://foster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/foster-announces-over-32-million-for-early-education-in-joliet,Foster Announces Over $3.2 million for Early Education in Joliet,2015-12-03,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Bill Foster,F000454,foster.house.gov,,,legacy,"Joliet, IL Today, Congressman Bill Foster announced that over $3.2 million in grant funding from the Department of Health and Human Services will be awarded to Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Joliet, Inc., for the continuation of the organizations Head Start and Early Head Start programs that serve 750 families in the Joliet Area. Making sure our children have access to learning opportunities in the years before traditional education begins should be a top priority, Foster said. Children enrolled in Head Start and Early Head Start will be better prepared for kindergarten and are more likely to be successful down the road. We are very happy and delighted that we received this second year of funding, said Kathy Fudge-White, Director of Early Childhood Services Division, Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Joliet. We look forward to providing services on behalf of children and families who are in need of comprehensive services in Will County. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://foster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/foster-takano-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-establish-national-3d,"Foster, Takano Introduce Bipartisan legislation To Establish National 3D Printing Day",2015-12-03,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Bill Foster,F000454,foster.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DCToday, Representatives Bill Foster (IL-11) and Mark Takano (CA-41) introduced a bipartisan House resolution to establish December 3rd as national 3D Printing Day. Text of the resolution is available here. The pair also introduced the legislation in the 113th Congress. Advances in 3D printing are creating unprecedented opportunities for entrepreneurs and manufactures to develop new products and bring ideas to life. From bio-technology, to food production, to advanced manufacturing, 3D printing is creating endless opportunities for innovation. Its critical that we continue to develop this technology and recognize its importance in the modern economy, said Foster. Developments in the 3D printing industry are being led by American entrepreneurs, and were just beginning to realize the impact this technology will have on our lives. Soon well see 3D printers in classrooms, at the office and in our homes, completely altering how we interact with the global supply chain. Im proud to be the only member of Congress to house a 3D printer in my office. We should promote this technology widely to increase opportunities for innovation, said Takano. By enabling rapid production of previously impossible, innovative products, 3D printing has the potential to spawn thousands of new businesses in the U.S. and give domestic companies an edge in global markets. The Department of Energy estimates that 3D printing can save 50% of energy use compared to more traditional manufacturing processes. Foster and Takano introduced this resolution to honor innovative technologies, such as 3D printing, that have the potential to jump-start advanced manufacturing in the United States. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://foster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/foster-votes-for-five-year-transportation-bill,Foster Votes For Five-Year Transportation Bill,2015-12-03,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Bill Foster,F000454,foster.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC Today, Representative Bill Foster (IL-11) voted for the conference report on Fixing Americas Surface Transportation Act. The act is the first long-term transportation bill passed by Congress in over a decade and will fund transportation projects for the next five years. The measure, which authorizes $281 billion in funding, will now go to the Senate for a final vote. While Foster voted for the measure, he expressed disappointment that the final bill did not include the Foster Payer Statement Amendment that was included in the original House bill. I am glad that Congress was finally able to pass a long-term transportation bill, said Foster. This will give our local governments and businesses the certainty they need to make long-term investments. However, I am disappointed that the Payer State amendment passed by the House was removed during conference with the Senate, Foster added. Many states are getting out of the Federal Highway Trust Fund several times more than they pay into it, while payer states like Illinois, New York, Florida, New Jersey, California, Michigan, Colorado, and others, are getting rooked. My amendment would have shone a light on this massive redistribution of wealth from one state to another. Fosters amendment would require the Department of Transportation to calculate in each year, how much each state receives from the Highway Trust Fund. The report would also include an accounting of how much revenue each state put into the Highway Trust Fund through both the gas tax and related contributions, and contributions including funds transferred from general revenue. More information on the amendment is available here. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://hultgren.house.gov/newsroom/in-the-news/op-ed-children-deserve-a-targeted-compassionate-approach-to-health-care,"Op-ed: Children deserve a targeted, compassionate approach to health care",2015-12-03,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,IL,Randy Hultgren,H001059,hultgren.house.gov,,,legacy,"This summer an energetic 4-year-old from Illinois named Charlie and his parents came to my Washington, D.C. office to talk about Charlies rare brain disorder and the intricacies of his treatment plan and recovery. Children in Illinois like Charlie and others across the country with complex medical conditions often require care from multiple specialists, for multiple years. These childrens lives become even more complex when limited access to the specialists they need force them to bounce from state to state for care. Managing these medical visits and treatments is time consuming, and in most cases, its parents who bear the responsibility of navigating confusing treatment plans and coordinating care and health coverage across different state programs. Furthermore, the inefficiencies and redundancies in medical care come with a significant cost. While only 6 percent of children on Medicaid have complex medical conditions, they receive 40 percent of Medicaids spending on children. I support the Advancing Care for Exceptional Kids Act of 2015 (H.R. 546), or ACE Kids, because it is designed to make the lives of these precious kids and their families easier while also reducing the financial burden on Medicaid. ACE Kids gives states the option to create a Medicaid Childrens Care Coordination (MCCC) program, which will allow for the establishment of networks to coordinate care and share data among medical facilities, even in different states. This will ensure children with complex health problems are getting the care they require, in a way that is patient-centered and properly coordinated to improve health, eliminate redundancy and reduce costsan estimated $13 billion in its first 10 years. The ACE Kids Act, if passed, will not act as a directive from the federal government. This bill is another step in the movement toward state autonomy in health care. Through ACE Kids, states like Illinois will have the option to create an MCCC system optimized to work best for the children who live there. Participation in ACE Kids is optional not only for states, but also for families and for providers, so the bill improves freedom of choice for everyone involved. Our childrenCharlie and the millions like himdeserve a targeted, compassionate approach to their health care that removes barriers, streamlines services, and drives down costs for their families and the states in which they live. The ACE Kids Act can help get us there, and I urge my colleagues to support this bill. Randy Hultgren represents Illinois 14th Congressional District and is member of the Science, Space and Technology Committee.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://hultgren.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/hultgren-supports-final-highway-bill,Hultgren Supports Final Highway Bill,2015-12-03,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,IL,Randy Hultgren,H001059,hultgren.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC U.S. Representative Randy Hultgren (IL-14) today supported House passage (359-65) of the Conference Report to H.R. 22, the Fixing Americas Surface Transportation (FAST) Act, a five-year highway and transit bill produced by both Houses of Congress. For a full summary of the bill and Rep. Hultgrens leadership on the issue, including securing key commitments from Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman Shuster regarding funding for suburban areas, please click here. Like the version that the House passed last month, this bicameral legislation puts the needs of our communities and our country's long-term competitiveness first. Without a strong and sustainable infrastructure of roads, bridges and highways, we will continue to lose ground as our population continues to grow and businesses look for cost-effective and reliable modes of transport. Illinois is a key beneficiary of this long-term bill which will allow our local communities to plan years down the road for much-needed projects, said Rep. Hultgren. I look forward to the President signing this bicameral, bipartisan and fiscally responsible legislation to upgrade our regional transportation hub, and the entire nation. The last time a highway bill lasting longer than two years made it to the president's desk was 2005. According to the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), Illinois stands to benefit from the FAST Act: Estimated Highway Apportionments by state: Illinois Rank = #6 FY 16-20 Total = $7,530,044,230 FY 16-20 Average Annual = $1,506,008,846 Illinois % of Total = 3.63% Estimated Transit Apportionments by state: Illinois Rank = #4 FY 16-20 Total = $2,987,521,165 FY 16-20 Average Annual = 597,504,233 Illinois % of Total = 6.44% ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://kinzinger.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=399265,Kinzinger Priorities Pass House,2015-12-03,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,IL,Adam Kinzinger,K000378,kinzinger.house.gov,,,legacy,"The House of Representatives passed two major pieces of legislation that include several of Congressman Adam Kinzingers initiatives to protect Illinois consumers, increase American energy security, reduce government waste, and ensure the viability of Illinois agriculture. share: f t WASHINGTON Today, the House of Representatives passed two major pieces of legislation that include several of Congressman Adam Kinzingers initiatives to protect Illinois consumers, increase American energy security, reduce government waste, and ensure the viability of Illinois agriculture.I am extremely pleased that today, Congress came together to pass real, bipartisan solutions that will positively impact the lives of families in Illinois 16th district and across the country, said Rep. Kinzinger. Todays legislative victories include energy efficiency measures that will reduce energy costs for families, businesses and government. Also included is the reauthorization of the Export Import Bank, which is a vital tool that will give job creators the certainty they need to hire Illinois workers and assist them in competing in the global marketplace. A long term highway bill will ensure the safety and reliability of our roads and bridges on which Illinois families and our economy rely. The significance of these legislative accomplishments cannot be overstated and I look forward to the President signing these critical bills into law. The North American Energy Security & Infrastructure Act will help reform and transform our energy policy nationwide. Congressman Kinzinger, a member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee and Co-Chair of the House Energy Savings Performance Caucus, authored or coauthored several provisions of the legislation, including: Legislation that takes a step in the right direction in demonstrating the benefits of thermal insulation by starting with the federal government. A bipartisan, commonsense solution that is guaranteed to help end wasteful spending on inefficient energy programs by encouraging and expanding the use of Energy Savings Performance Contracts (ESPCs) in federal government buildings. ESPCs are innovative public-private partnerships in which private companies use their own money and resources to make energy-efficiency upgrades to federal buildings Legislation that puts the federal government in the drivers seat by directing the Office of Management and Budget to develop a strategy for purchasing, maintaining, and using energy efficient products and plans for federal data centers. A bill which authorizes funding for a pilot program to increase the effectiveness of water distribution networks by using less energy to deliver better quality water. As the first long-term surface transportation bill in ten years, the Fixing Americas Surface Transportation (FAST) Act is a five-year, fully paid-for surface transportation reauthorization of federal highway, transit, highway safety, motor carrier safety, hazardous materials, and passenger rail programs. This legislation includes: Congressman Kinzingers legislation that ensures Illinois workers and businesses are able to compete and succeed in the global marketplace by reforming and reauthorizing the Export-Import Bank of the United States. A provision Congressman Kinzinger fought for that ensures that crop insurance continues to be available, affordable, and accessible to Illinois farmers. A modified version of Congressman Kinzingers amendment to protect consumers, support small business, and improve vehicle safety for families.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://quigley.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/quigley-statement-on-passage-of-elementary-and-secondary-education-act,Quigley Statement on Passage of Elementary and Secondary Education Act Reauthorization,2015-12-03,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Mike Quigley,Q000023,quigley.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Yesterday, U.S. Representative Mike Quigley (IL-05) released the following statement in response to the passage of the bipartisan reauthorization bill for the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, which included Rep. Quigleys amendment to maintain certification requirements for educational staff: Passage of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act reauthorization is good news for students, parents, and teachers across the country.The agreement includes strong federal safeguards to ensure all students have access to a quality education, expands access to preschool, reduces dependence on high-stakes testing, and much more. I am also pleased that the final bill included the amendment I offered in February, which maintains certification requirements for educational staff, or paraprofessionals. Paraprofessionals offer critical support with teaching instruction and student learning assistance, especially in overcrowded and special needs classrooms. I am glad Congress recognized the vital role these individuals play in the classroom and decided to continue the maintenance of certification to rightly equip these professionals with the skills needed to continue their work. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://rodneydavis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398876,Davis Applauds Passage of Five-Year Highway Bill,2015-12-03,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,IL,Rodney Davis,D000619,rodneydavis.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC U.S. Rep. Rodney Davis (R-Ill.), a member of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, today released the following statement after the House overwhelmingly passed a five-year highway bill by a vote of 359-65. The conference report for H.R. 22, the Fixing Americas Surface Transportation (FAST) Act of 2015, authorizes and funds surface transportation programs for five years. This is the first long-term surface transportation bill in nearly a decade. I ran for Congress on the promise of governing and passing a long-term highway bill to fix our roads and bridges, said Davis. Today I was proud to vote for a bipartisan bill that makes critical policy changes and provides five years of certainty for Illinois and our local governments. I want to thank Chairman Shuster for his leadership and the work of my all of my colleagues to move this important legislation forward. Congress has a constitutional responsibility to provide for our nations roads and bridges. We must continue to build on this weeks success and use this time to find innovative funding solutions that will support a 21st Century transportation system. Davis spoke in support of this bill during debate on the House floor today. Click here to download and view his speech. The Senate is expected to pass H.R. 22 and the president is expected to sign it this week. Under the FAST Act, Illinois will receive roughly $7.5 billion ($1.5 billion per year) in federal highway funding, a $668 million or 2.8 percent increase from the MAP-21 average annual formula apportionment. For transit, Illinois share is $3 billion over five years ($600 million per year), the states highest level since 2006. Additionally, this bill provides more local control by increasing the share of Surface Transportation Program (STP) funding that is suballocated to metropolitan areas by 1 percent per year, starting at 51 percent in FY16 and going up to 55 percent by 2020. Meaning local governments in Illinois will collectively see a $25 million increase of suballocated funds over the life of the bill. While this bill takes modest steps toward increasing local control of transportation funds, I believe there is still room for improvement, said Davis. I will continue to fight to give our communities, and particularly smaller communities, a greater voice in how transportation dollars are spent. Davis has spearheaded reforms that increase local control of transportation funds provided to states with his bill the Innovation in Surface Transportation Act. The final bill includes several amendments authored by Davis including: Language to provide important relief to independent welders working in the pipeline industry who use their personal vehicle on the job. Clarifying existing law as it relates to the type of freight auto-haulers can carry on backhaul trips after they deliver their vehicles to car dealerships. Provisions encouraging states to use new assessment tools to identify mental health issues, substance abuse issues, and recidivism risks that will help identify underlying causes for repeat DUI behavior. Additional highlights of the bill include: Streamlines the environmental review and permitting process, accelerating project delivery. Establishes a National Surface Transportation and Innovative Finance Bureau intended to provide assistance to state, local and private partners as they move various transportation projects forward. Creates a Nationally Significant Freight and Highway Projects Program to help improve the movement of goods across the country. Promotes the deployment of transportation technologies that will enhance the surface transportation system by reducing congestion and increasing efficiency. Additionally, this bill includes the House passed passenger rail bill among other things, specifically, this bill reauthorizes grant programs that can be used to relocate passenger and freight rail lines. Click here for more information about H.R. 749, the Passenger Rail Reform and Investment Act of 2015.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://bost.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-bost-votes-maximize-america-s-energy-potential,Rep. Bost Votes to Maximize Americas Energy Potential,2015-12-03,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,IL,Mike Bost,B001295,bost.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.Today, Rep. Mike Bost (IL-12) voted for H.R. 8the North American Energy Security and Infrastructure Actwhich will maximize Americas energy potential to make our energy infrastructure more resilient and create jobs. This legislation will update and modernize outdated policies and focus on todays energy abundance in places like Southern Illinois and locations all over the United States, said Rep. Bost. But we need to modernize the energy infrastructure by making it easier for the private sector to invest in new energy projects by cutting down on government red tape and regulations, which are slowing down the permitting process. H.R. 8 is a Broad Energy Bill that Seeks to Maximize Americas Energy Potential by: Modernizing Energy Infrastructure: focus on the transmission, distribution, and storage of energy to ensure we have the necessary infrastructure to meet todays modern energy challenges. It also cuts down on government red tape to open doors for the private sector to invest in new energy projects, creating jobs. Protecting the Electricity System: ensure the electric grid is secure, resilient, and reliable. Strengthening Energy Security and Diplomacy: take important steps to strengthen partnerships with our allies and reform the approval process for energy exports. Improving Energy Efficiency and Government Accountability: promote simple and affordable methods to address energy demand and lower electric bills while reducing government waste.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://lahood.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/lahood-votes-bipartisan-transportation-agreement,LaHood Votes for Bipartisan Transportation Agreement,2015-12-03,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,IL,Darin LaHood,L000585,lahood.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington D.C.Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-18) voted today in favor of H.R. 22, theFixing Americas Surface Transportation(FAST) Act, which garnered bipartisan support, passing the House with a vote of 314-55. The five-year, fully-funded legislation is the result of a House-Senate Conference Committee, to whichRep. LaHood was appointedto serveon. Together the conferees negotiated difference between House and Senate versions of the legislation and produced a bill that will improve the nations surface transportation infrastructure, including our roads, bridges, transit systems, and rail transportation network. The bill reforms and strengthens transportation programs, refocuses on national priorities, provides long-term certainty and more flexibility for states and local governments, streamlines project approval processes, and maintains a strong commitment to safety. After years of short-term legislative patches, I was pleased to see the long-term FAST Act pass swiftly through the House. H.R. 22 will finally provide the 18th District and our cities and states with the tools and resources they need to plan and strategically execute transportation projects with certainty and predictability, Congressman LaHood said. This bill provides an effective, efficient, and accountable approach to transportation policy which is vital, given that our transportation infrastructure network is the backbone of our economy. We applaud the conference committee for their good work in completing this important legislation, added Doug Oberhelman, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Caterpillar Inc. and Chair of the Business Roundtable infrastructure initiative. We urge theSenate to pass, and the President to sign, this legislation as quickly as possible so we can get moving to invest in and rebuild our nations critical infrastructure assets. Congressman LaHood onC-SPAN Washington Journalthis morning discussing the FAST Act TheFixing Americas Surface Transportation(FAST) Actreauthorizes federal surface transportation programs through Fiscal Year 2020.This comprehensive legislation achieves long-term certainty and provides significant flexibility for state and local governments, speeds up the project approval process while improving safety. The FAST Act is fully paid for and ensures fiscal responsibility without raising taxes. ### Congressman Darin LaHood proudly serves the constituents of Illinois 18th Congressional District, consisting of more than 710,000 constituents across 19 counties throughout Central and West-Central Illinois. Darin was born and raised in Central Illinois and currently resides in the Peoria area with his wife, Kristen, and their three children. To schedule an interview with Congressman LaHood, please contact J.D. Dalfonso atj.dalfonso@mail.house.govor at (309) 231-5859",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://rodneydavis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398875,Davis Votes to Put Education Decisions Back in the Hands of Parents and Local Educators,2015-12-03,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,IL,Rodney Davis,D000619,rodneydavis.house.gov,,,legacy,"U.S. Rep. Rodney Davis (R-Ill.) today released the following statement after the House passed the conference report to S. 1177, the Every Student Succeeds Act, which reforms No Child Left Behind and returns critical education decisions back to our local educators. This bill includes language in H.R. 5, the Student Success Act, which passed the House earlier this year.What works for one school in Chicago may not work for another in Taylorville, Illinois, said Davis. Our parents and local educators know what works best for their students and should have the ability to adapt accordingly. This long-awaited bill to reform No Child Left Behind reduces the federal footprint in our schools and puts our local educators back in charge. The Every Student Succeeds Act provides schools with more flexibility, repeals ineffective programs, and allows schools to reduce testing requirements while providing parents with an opportunity to exempt their children from excessive testing. S. 1177, the Every Student Succeeds Act, is the first reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) since No Child Left Behind which expired in 2007. The Senate is expected to pass this bill as early as next week and the president is expected to sign thereafter. Highlights of the bill include: Reauthorizes programs through 2020 Restricts the Department of Education (ED) from imposing requirements on states and schools through waivers and executive action Prohibits the ED from incentivizing states from adoption Common Core standards Repeals the Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) performance measurement system Eliminates 49 ineffective and duplicative programs Allows parents to opt their child out of the annual assessment if state law permits without impacting the 95 percent assessment requirement if the state chooses Empowers parents by ensuring thorough and transparent reporting on state and district report cards Increases flexibility in funding so local educators can use funds for the programs that work for their school",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-blumenthal-statement-on-ed-decision-to-grant-relief-to-over-1300-students-following-collapse-of-corinthian-colleges,"Durbin, Blumenthal Statement on ED Decision to Grant Relief to Over 1,300 Students Following Collapse of Corinthian Colleges",2015-12-03,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.03.15 Durbin, Blumenthal Statement on ED Decision to Grant Relief to Over 1,300 Students Following Collapse of Corinthian Colleges [WASHINGTON, D.C.] U.S. Senators Dick Durbin (D-IL) and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) today called the Department of Educations approval of more than $28 million in federal student loan debt relief of 1,312 students of former Heald College which was part of the collapsed Corinthian Colleges, Inc. system evidence of progress for students. To accompany todays relief, the Department of Treasury issued guidance that ensures federal debt relief for Corinthian students will not be considered taxable income. We appreciate todays assurance from the Department of Treasury that Corinthian students will not face a tax bill for federal student loan debt relief. Anything else would be unfair, said the Senators. The Department of Educations approval of relief today is welcome news for some 1,300 former Heald students, but there are thousands more across the country who deserve the same relief. We encourage the Department to step up the pace and scope of its Corinthian debt relief efforts to give those students the relief they deserve under the law now. The Senators have been calling for federal student loan relief for Corinthian students since the company collapsed more than a year ago. Durbin and Blumenthal joined 16 other Senators earlier this month in a LETTER urging the Department of Education (ED) to grant immediate, class-wide relief to former Corinthian Colleges, Inc. students following a recent federal district court ruling that the for-profit college chain broke federal consumer protection laws. Their letter came after a federal judge for the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois issued a default judgment against Corinthian Colleges, finding that it violated the Consumer Financial Protection Act of 2010 (CFPA) ban on deceptive practices by misrepresenting job prospects and career services available to students to induce them into taking on debt. The company then engaged in predatory collections practices that directly interfered with the educational services for which students were paying. -30- Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-congress-sends-long-term-transportation-bill-to-president,Durbin: Congress Sends Long-Term Transportation Bill to President,2015-12-03,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.03.15 Durbin: Congress Sends Long-Term Transportation Bill to President Legislation includes reauthorization of the Export-Import Bank which Senator says is key tool for Illinois businesses [WASHINGTON, D.C.] U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) hailed Congressional passage of legislation that will authorize and fund transportation programs for the next 5 years and reauthorize the Export-Import Bank. Durbin who was a member of the Conference Committee tasked with finding a compromise between the House and Senate versions of the transportation bill said that the Fixing Americas Surface Transportation (FAST) Act will provide the certainty that businesses and state governments, like Illinois, need to plan critical infrastructure projects, create good-paying jobs and support Illinois businesses. On passage of the FAST Act, Durbin said: This is a strong bipartisan bill that reauthorizes our nation's transportation programs and gives state and local agencies certainty in planning for the next five years. As a member of the House-Senate Conference Committee, I was glad to be at the table working to protect Illinois important, job-creating infrastructure priorities. Amtrak President & CEO Joe Boardman said: We appreciate the hard work and strong bipartisan support from the leadership of the Committees of jurisdiction in moving forward this transportation legislation. We thank Sen. Durbin and all of Congress for recognizing Amtrak as a vital mode of transportation and including Amtrak in the Surface Transportation Bill for the first time in history. The continued steady demand of ridership and expansion of service clearly demonstrates the need for critical investment in passenger rail. Additional information on Illinois transportation priorities included in the FAST Act can be found on Senator Durbins WEBSITE. On reauthorization of the Export-Import Bank, Durbin said: This reauthorization of the Export-Import Bank is long overdue. I am glad to see it was included in todays legislation. As businesses grow and expand, they often look to foreign markets where U.S. goods and services are in high demand. The Export-Import Bank the primary tool supporting U.S. exports helps at least 100 Illinois companies, more than 80 of which are small businesses. The Export-Import Bank is a key tool that thousands of businesses including 3,340 small businesses across the country rely on to access new markets, boost international sales, and succeed in the global economy. Every $1 billion in new exports sales supports 6,000 additional jobs. These transactions support $27.4 billion in exports and 164,000 American jobs all while returning $7 billion to the U.S. Treasury over the last 20 years. Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z