url,title,date,year,month,party,chamber,state,member_name,bioguide_id,domain,scraper,source,date_source,text,has_text,collected_at,updated_at
http://renacci.house.gov/index.cfm/weekly-column?ContentRecord_id=34E3B324-91E0-4817-8044-4580889F62C0,Renacci Report: Looking Back At The Past Year In Washington,2014-12-31,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,OH,Jim Renacci,R000586,renacci.house.gov,,,legacy,"Looking Back At The Past Year In Washington
It is a great honor to serve you in the United States Congress. Though we have much work ahead of us, I want to take this opportunity to highlight my work on behalf of Ohio’s 16th District in Washington this past year.
Addressing The Problems At The VA
Like many living in Ohio’s 16th District, I was deeply troubled to learn of the systematic failures at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). We can and must be doing more to keep our promise to those who have served our country.
In July, the House passed the Veterans’ Access to Care through Choice, Accountability, and Transparency Act. Highlights from this legislation include providing $10 billion for veterans to seek private care at hospitals and clinics outside the VA, and $5 billion to allow the department to hire more doctors, nurses, and medical staff. It was signed into law on August 7, 2014.
Reducing the Negative Effects of the President’s Health Care Law
As I travel throughout Ohio’s 16th District, I continue to hear Ohioans speak of the negative effects of the President’s health care law. Whether it’s higher premiums or a small business grappling with the law’s employer mandate, the broken law’s unintended consequences are significant.
This past year, the House passed the Employee Health Care Protection Act. It allows American workers who receive coverage through their employer the opportunity to keep their health plans through 2019. Additionally, I introduced the Simplifying Technical Aspects Regarding Seasonality (STARS) Act to clarify the employer mandate’s seasonal worker exemption provision so that our small businesses can focus their resources on doing what they do best: create jobs.
Bringing Transparency to the Federal Government
In Washington, we know that our current path is unsustainable, but do we really know where we stand fiscally? The answer is that we don’t, thanks to the federal government’s incomplete financial statements.
That is why I introduced the Federal Financial Statement Transparency Act. This bill will encourage the federal government to clean up its balance sheet, lead to a more honest depiction of our nation’s finances, and ultimately allow Congress to balance the budget and more effectively address our growing debt.
Reining In The EPA
At a time when Americans are in need of a strong economic recovery, Ohio simply cannot afford to suffer more job losses as a result of this administration’s attack on coal and the affordable domestic energy that it creates. This abundant natural resource generates over 50 percent of our state’s electricity and the industry employs thousands of Ohioans.
I was proud to support the Preventing Government Waste and Protecting Coal Mining Jobs in America Act. Not only will this bill curb this administration’s wasteful spending, it also removes the threat of new job-crushing federal regulations.
Tax-Free Savings Accounts For Individuals With Disabilities
Many parents living in Ohio’s 16th District have expressed the challenges they face when it comes to covering the costs associated everyday living expenses for their children. The challenge is even greater for parents with a child who has a disability.
That is why I was a proud cosponsor of the Achieving a Better Life Experience Act (ABLE) Act, a bill that allows individuals with disabilities and their caregivers to set up tax-free savings accounts in order to save for their own costs of medical care, housing, transportation, and continued education. It passed the House in July and was signed into law earlier this month.
Creating Conditions For Economic Growth
Over the past several months, we have seen unemployment reports that show our labor force participation rate is the lowest it’s been in decades. We must be doing more to incite growth and innovation.
That is why the House passed the Jobs for America Act, a bill that changes federal law to improve the conditions necessary for economic growth. Additionally, I introduced the Flexibility to Promote Reemployment Act, a bill that increases states’ flexibility to help unemployed individuals find employment by reducing the unnecessary Washington red tape that continues to stand in the way of job growth.
These are just a few of the more than 300 House-passed bills that remain stalled in the Senate. Though gridlock in Washington is frustrating, I am more than hopeful that come January we can work together to advance these bipartisan solutions. As we enter 2015, I look forward to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to get our country back on the path to prosperity.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.portman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=7c9c5d64-d278-4768-8103-41babcfff4e0,Your Tax Dollars...Down the Drain: Over-Budget Project for an Already Cancelled Program,2014-12-30,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,OH,Rob Portman,P000449,www.portman.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Rob Portman (R-Ohio) today released the latest example in a monthly series highlighting Washington’s wasteful spending during a time of record debt:
It doesn't take a rocket scientist to figure out that it's wasteful to spend money building a facility that will never be used. It does take Washington to fund the construction anyway.
The Washington Post recently reported that, last June, NASA marked completion of a $350 million tower (“A-3”) built to test a cutting-edge rocket engine (“J-2X”) that would help send astronauts to the International Space Station, the moon, and even Mars. 
As part of President George W. Bush’s Constellation program in 2004, the J-2X engine would power the Ares I and Ares V rockets that would transport astronauts and cargo separately to their destinations. Since the engine would be ignited only after the rockets were already in space, A-3 was made to withstand the blast of a rocket engine and create a vacuum inside similar to the conditions in space.
The project was originally projected to cost $119 million and be finished by 2010. But in 2010, A-3 was well over-budget and behind schedule. After President Obama proposed abandoning the Constellation program, Congress ended funding for the Ares rockets and the J-2X engine – yet inexplicably reauthorized the final $100 million to complete A-3 despite no longer developing rockets that could use it.
This pushed the final cost to $349 million, or nearly triple the original estimate. And even after this additional spending, the A-3 vacuum is still not operational for testing, and would require as long as three more years of work to finish if NASA ever decides to use the tower for its original purpose. 
“This egregious example of spending shows that Washington continues to operate in its own vacuum, diverting $100 million additional taxpayer dollars into an over-budget project that had already been cancelled,” said Portman. “During a time of already limited resources, this is exactly the type of spending that must be eliminated in order to become responsible stewards of taxpayer dollars.”
As of now, the door is locked and the area shut down. A NASA tour guide tells visitors that the tower is ""just hanging out right now."" NASA has no existing rockets or plans for the future to develop a rocket that would need the tower to test.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://latta.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=397914,World War II Veteran to Receive French Legion of Honor,2014-12-29,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,OH,Robert Latta,L000566,latta.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Bob Latta (R-OH) will join with French Colonel Nicolas Auboin on January 5 at the Wyandot County Courthouse to present Fifth Congressional District of Ohio resident and World War II veteran, Clyde Shull, with the French Legion of Honor. The award is the highest accolade given by the French government and will be presented to Mr. Shull in recognition of his service during World War II. Mr. Shull was also recognized by French Ambassador François Delattre during his visit to Northwest Ohio earlier this year. 
“It is an honor to have been able to work with the French government to recognize Mr. Shull with this long-deserved decoration,” said Latta. “Mr. Shull exemplifies his generation and the monumental sacrifices they made during World War II, and in receiving the French Legion of Honor, he will be rightfully recognized for his service and dedication to our country.”
""Bestowing a Legion d'Honneur in the name of the President of the French Republic is always something special,"" said Colonel Auboin. ""The circumstances here and now are even more specific. Mr. Shull is awarded the highest French decoration in recognition of his sacrifice and his support to the liberation of France, as well as for his contribution to establishing a long lasting peace in Europe. Through him, the French government wants to address the message to an entire generation of World War II veterans and the United States of America that France will never forget what they did in 1944. France also wishes that through this ceremony, this example of dedication and service will be an example for generations to come.""
Media are invited to attend the event, but must RSVP to Sarah Criser. Details for the event include the following:
WHO: Congressman Bob Latta, French Colonel Nicolas Auboin and World War II Veteran Clyde Shull
WHAT: French Legion of Honor Presentation
WHEN: Monday, January 5, at 10 a.m.
WHERE: Wyandot County Courthouse, Common Pleas Courtroom, 109 S. Sandusky Avenue, Upper Sandusky, Ohio 43351
About Mr. Shull
Mr. Shull was drafted into the military on February 9, 1942, and was stationed at Fort Bragg in North Carolina. His service is the only time he has lived outside of what is today’s Fifth Congressional District of Ohio. He served in the Ninth Infantry Division, 34th Field Artillery Battalion – one of the first to go onshore in North Africa.
During the D-Day invasion, Mr. Shull landed on Utah Beach, from where he fought through France, Belgium and Germany. His division participated in eight major battles throughout the war.
Mr. Shull was honorably discharged on June 21, 1945, and has remained active in the veterans community ever since. He is one of American Legion Post 225’s oldest members and has held numerous positions within the Post, including Commander and Finance Officer. He also served for 40 years on the Post’s Honor Guard and continues to serve on the Wyandot County Veteran Service Commission, of which he was selected and appointed in August 1985.
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http://stivers.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398497,"With his star hitched to Boehner, Stivers on the rise",2014-12-27,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,OH,Steve Stivers,S001187,stivers.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON – When Rep. Steve Stivers begins his third term in the House next month, the Columbus Republican will have a new spot at the center of the legislative action.
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      WASHINGTON – When Rep. Steve Stivers begins his third term in the House next month, the Columbus Republican will have a new spot at the center of the legislative action.That's because GOP leaders, in a surprise move, awarded Stivers a seat on the powerful House Rules Committee in the 114th Congress. The panel sets the terms of debate for nearly every piece of legislation that goes to the House floor and decides which amendments, if any, will receive a vote. Also known as ""the speaker's committee,"" it's how the House speaker controls a bill's fate. Stivers' new assignment, announced in mid-December, comes after he was tapped for a second stint in the GOP leadership, as a deputy to House Majority Whip Steve Scalise, R-La. As a member of Scalise's ""whip team,"" Stivers is one of a half-dozen lawmakers charged with making sure GOP leaders have enough votes to get their legislative priorities passed in the House. The two positions will be ""a very powerful combination,"" said former GOP Rep. Deborah Pryce, who represented Ohio's 15th district for 16 years before retiring in 2009. Stivers, she said, will be ""right in the middle of everything."" Stivers said he had been pursuing a spot on the House Budget Committee but switched gears when House Speaker John Boehner, R-West Chester, asked him if he would fill an opening on the Rules Committee instead. ""It's a chance to really influence the process,"" said Stivers, a soldier who serves in the Ohio Army National Guard. He said he'll be involved in every major issue that comes before the House -- including health care, tax policy and national security. Others echoed that assessment and said Stivers' elevated role is a sign he's become one of Boehner's most trusted allies. ""It's a reflection of confidence from leadership,"" said Norman Ornstein, a congressional expert at the American Enterprise Institute, a centrist Washington think tank. Kara Hauck, a spokeswoman for Boehner, said he sees Stivers as a ""leader who works hard to get the job done, and the speaker looks forward to having him serve in this new role."" Stivers has long been on Boehner's radar. When Pryce announced her retirement in 2008, Boehner recruited Stivers, then a state lawmaker, to run for the open seat. Stivers narrowly lost narrowly lost that race to Democrat Mary Jo Kilroy. But he tried again in 2010, again at Boehner's urging, and won the rematch. Raised in Ripley, Stivers is a garrulous, well-liked lawmaker with a relatively moderate voting record. He earned a 57 percent conservative score in 2013 from the National Journal, a nonpartisan Washington magazine that analyzes key votes. Dubbed a ""rising GOP star"" by some political pundits, Stivers also has a reputation as a Boehner loyalist, sticking by the speaker as he dealt with conservative revolts and tea party attacks. Stivers voted with GOP leaders 92 percent of the time in the 113th Congress, according to an analysis by the Washington Post. Conservatives may not be so smitten with him. The Club for Growth, a right-leaning advocacy group, gave Stivers a 56 percent score for his votes in 2013. That's well below other central Ohio Republicans such as Jim Jordan, R-Urbana, who scored 97 percent. Club for Growth spokesman Barney Keller declined to comment on Stivers' votes or his leadership ties, saying his scorecard ""speaks for itself."" Given his long-time friendship with Boehner, it's no surprise Stivers is starting his third term with a seat at the leadership table. It comes at a critical moment for the GOP, with Boehner and other leaders desperate to prove they can govern and break the gridlock that has paralyzed Congress. ""I hope to be able to actually make a difference,"" said Stivers. ""It's been really frustrating to be in Congress the last four years."" In his role on the whip team, Stivers is charged with finding out how Republicans are going to vote on key bills and stamping out any opposition before the legislation hits the floor. ""He's one of the hardest workers I know,"" Scalise said. ""Steve is one of those guys, he sets his mind to it and goes and get things done. I've always wanted him on my team (for) anything I've done."" On the Rules Committee, Stivers faces a different challenge -- fielding pleas from colleagues for votes on their provisions. ""An awful lot of members from both parties who want amendments come to you, and you can help them or not help them,"" Ornstein said. At the same time, Stivers will be under pressure from GOP leaders who want to avoid contentious votes and drawn-out floor fights. Stivers said he's knows he'll face competing demands. He said he'll use the committee post to focus on ""what's right for the bill and what's right for America and what can pass.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://latta.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=397907,President Signs Lattas Propane Bill into Law,2014-12-23,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,OH,Robert Latta,L000566,latta.house.gov,,,legacy,"President Obama has signed bipartisan legislation sponsored by Congressman Bob Latta (R-OH), member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee’s Energy and Power Subcommittee, into law. H.R. 5705, the Propane Education and Research Enhancement Act, addresses some of the winter heating challenges experienced in Ohio and throughout the Midwest last year to prevent future propane price spikes.
“As we head into another winter, it is imperative that Americans across the country have access to heat,” said Latta. “Last year, we were faced with propane shortages that threatened the lives and livelihoods of many living in Ohio and throughout the Midwest. With the Propane Education and Research Enhancement Act now signed into law, the industry can help prevent future propane supply issues and price spikes, so residents are not negatively impacted.”  
The Propane Education and Research Enhancement Act of 2014 clarifies Congress’ intent in the Propane Education and Research Act (PERA), requiring the Department of Commerce to use proper data to calculate consumer prices. It would also allow the Propane Education and Research Council to improve training for distributors and consumers to help mitigate the negative effects of propane prices spikes.
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http://renacci.house.gov/index.cfm/weekly-column?ContentRecord_id=4F8CE8D1-C658-4D5B-85EE-802D3D97E5B3,Renacci Report: Working To Reduce The Negative Effects Of The Presidents Health Care Law,2014-12-23,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,OH,Jim Renacci,R000586,renacci.house.gov,,,legacy,"The open enrollment period for health care coverage in 2015 began in November, and with it came stories from people all across Ohio. Whether in Ohio’s 16th District or any other part of the state, the negative impact of the President’s health care law continues to be widespread.
Many are facing higher premiums and deductibles. People are losing access to their doctors whom they like and trust. Sadly, I have heard from people living in my district who have had their hours reduced at work due to the law’s employer mandates – turning full-time work into part-time work at a time when they can least afford it.
A small business owner from North Canton contacted me to inform me of the law’s negatives effects on his business. He said that if 75 percent of his eligible employees participate in the company’s health insurance plan, he will be put out of business within 3-6 months. Though he’s planning on growing his company, the 30-hour definition of full-time employment within the President’s health care law threatens the company’s very existence. A retired constituent told me that his monthly premiums have tripled and his deductible has doubled - forcing him to re-enter the workforce to cover the significant increase in his health care costs. A woman living in Massillon said that though she has insurance now, she can’t go to the doctor because she can’t afford her deductible. Another said that her health care costs are so high she is forced to choose whether to buy food or pay her utility bill to stay warm. People all across my district are growing more and more frustrated with the narrow networks and higher costs of their health care since the implementation of the law.
That is why we in the House of Representatives have worked to reduce this broken law’s harmful  effects. Earlier this month, we passed a continuing resolution-omnibus bill that reined in the President’s health care law by eliminating new funding for it. Additionally, it cut funding for the Independent Payment Advisory Board (IPAB) by $10 million. It also prevents a taxpayer bailout of the risk corridor program within the President’s health care law, and requires the Office of Inspector General (OIG) to report to Congress on improper payments of subsidies. 
As we approach the 114th Congress, I am hopeful that our work in the House will be matched by the newly Republican-controlled Senate. I expect us to work together on legislation that repeals the medical device tax, provides relief to Ohioans by repealing the individual mandate, and ensures patients and their families, not unelected bureaucrats, are in charge of their treatment decisions by repealing IPAB.
I have made clear that there are parts of the law that I support such as eliminating lifetime or annual spending caps on essential benefits, preventing insurers from unjustly cancelling policies, and closing the Medicare Part D “doughnut hole,” but this law does not effectively address any of the cost issues that already prevent Americans from seeking or receiving appropriate healthcare. We need to work toward real health care reform that protects the doctor-patient relationship and lowers costs while increasing choices. I look forward to building upon our work in the next Congress and working with the Senate to provide relief for Ohioans who are grappling with the consequences of the President’s failed health care law.
If our office can be of assistance to you, please don't hesitate to call us at our Wadsworth office: (330) 334-0040, Parma office: (440) 882-6779, or Washington office: (202) 225-3876. I also encourage you to visit our website at renacci.house.gov and subscribe to our  Facebook,  Twitter, and  YouTube pages to get the latest updates on my work in Washington and Ohio's 16th District.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.brown.senate.gov/newsroom/newsletters/happy-holidays,Happy Holidays,2014-12-23,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,OH,Sherrod Brown,B000944,www.brown.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Tuesday, December 23, 2014
			Connie and I wish you and your family a happy and healthy holiday season. As the year comes to a close and I reflect on my travels throughout Ohio, one common thread emerges: the compassion of Ohioans. Each week, I encounter Ohioans who volunteer to help others and improve their communities. Whether it’s sending care packages to our brave service members and their families, or shoveling snow for an older neighbor, service helps to strengthen our communities and to spread cheer – during the holiday season and beyond. As 2014 comes to an end, I would like to thank you for the honor of representing you in the U.S. Senate.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://stivers.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398487,Stivers Nominates Area Students to Military Academies,2014-12-22,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,OH,Steve Stivers,S001187,stivers.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON – Congressman Steve Stivers (R – OH) today announced his nomination of students from across Ohio’s 15th Congressional District to the United States military academies. Stivers nominated the following students:
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      WASHINGTON – Congressman Steve Stivers (R – OH) today announced his nomination of students from across Ohio’s 15th Congressional District to the United States military academies. Stivers nominated the following students:•    Lydia LaRue was nominated to West Point. LaRue attends Amanda Clearcreek High School and is the daughter of Dean and Wendy LaRue. •    John Lemaster was nominated to the United States Naval Academy, West Point, and the Air Force Academy.  Lemaster attends Amanda Clearcreek High School and is the son of Brent and Rosalinda Lemaster. •    Kristin Riggs received a nomination to West Point.  She attends Canal Winchester High School and is the daughter of Kent and Pam Riggs. •    Bryce Bailey received a nomination to the Air Force Academy. He graduated from Columbus Academy and currently attends the Air Force Academy Prep School and is the son of Shawn and Deborah Bailey. •    Benjamin Tobin was nominated to the United States Naval Academy, Merchant Marine Academy, West Point, and the Air Force Academy. He graduated from Fairfield Christian Academy and currently attends Ohio University.  He is the son of Michael and Resa Tobin.   •    Tazz Ashbaugh was nominated to the United States Naval Academy and the Air Force Academy. He attends Fairfield Union High School and is the son of Chad and Denese Ashbaugh.   •    Carlos Rodriguez received a nomination to West Point. He attends Fairfield Union High School and is the son of Carlos and Suzanne Rodriguez.  
    
•    Rachel Hawthorn was nominated to the United States Naval Academy and the Air Force Academy.  She attends Liberty Union High School and is the daughter of Marc and Lisa Hawthorn. •    Tearence Lane was nominated to the United States Naval Academy and the Air Force Academy.  He attends Pickerington Central High School and is the son of Dredrick and Stacey Lane. •    Matthew Musso was nominated to the United States Naval Academy and the Air Force Academy.  He attends Pickerington Central High School and is the son of Joseph and Rebecca Musso. •    Durkin Ross received a nomination to the Air Force Academy.  He graduated from Pickerington North High School and currently attends The Ohio State University and is the son of Donald and Lisa Ross. •    Eli Frazier received a nomination to West Point.  He attends William V. Fisher Catholic High School and is the son of David Frazier and Bridget Kuhn. •    Trevor Parker received nominations to the United States Naval Academy and West Point. Parker graduated from Hilliard Darby High School and currently attends Capital University and is the son of Jeffrey Parker and Michelle Rutledge-Parker. •    Benjamin Radcliff received nominations to West Point, the Naval Academy and the Air Force Academy. Parker attends Hilliard Darby High School and is the son of George and Dodie Radcliff. •    Brienne Walker was nominated to the Air Force Academy.  She attends Hilliard Bradley High School and is the daughter of Mark and Leslie Walker. •    Sarah Sprague was nominated to the United States Naval Academy.  She attends Hilliard Bradley High School and is the daughter of Wallace and Lisa Sprague. •    William Brooks received a nomination to the United States Naval Academy, West Point and  the Merchant Marine Academy.  He attends Logan High School and he is the son of Jason and Kristin Brooks. •    William Merrill received nominations to West Point and the United States Naval Academy.  He attends Logan Elm High School and is the son of Frank and Lisa Merrill. •    Caleb Welch was nominated to the United States Naval Academy, West Point and the Air Force Academy. He attends Teays Valley High School and is the son of Timothy and Kimberly Welch. •    Nicholas Klitzka was nominated to the United States Naval Academy, West Point and the Air Force Academy.  He attends William V. Fisher Catholic High School and is the son of Thomas and Patricia Klitzka. •    Daniel Hummer received a nomination to the United States Air Force Academy.  He graduated from Upper Arlington High School and currently attends the Air Force Academy Prep School.  He is the son of Mark and Jeanine Hummer. •    Brandon Jones was nominated to the United States Air Force Academy. Jones is a graduate of Upper Arlington High School and currently attends the Air Force Academy Prep School.  He is the son of John and April Jones. •    Coleson Carmell was nominated to the United States Naval Academy and the Air Force Academy. He attends Upper Arlington High school and is the son of Cavin Carmell and Melloni DeMuth. “It is an honor to nominate these outstanding students to  the U.S. military academies,” Stivers said.  “As a Colonel in the Ohio Army National Guard, I thank these students for their interest in serving our nation in such a meaningful and important way. I also would like to thank Ohio’s 15th District Academy Review Board for their thoughtful recommendations and assistance in interviewing the students.” In pursuit of a nomination to a U.S. military academy, students submit an application and are interviewed by Congressman Stivers’ Military Academy Review Board. The board evaluates the students on the basis of academic performance, leadership ability and community involvement. To receive a service academy nomination from Congressman Stivers, candidates must be an unmarried resident of Ohio’s 15th Congressional District, a United States citizen and between the ages of 17 and 23. Qualified persons interested in pursuing a nomination to one of the United States Service Academies should visit www.stivers.house.gov for more information, or contact Congressman Stivers’ Lancaster Office at (740) 654-2654. -30-",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://timryan.house.gov/press-release/congressman-tim-ryan-letter-tamarkin-company-and-teamsters-377,Congressman Tim Ryan Letter to Tamarkin Company and Teamsters 377,2014-12-22,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,OH,Tim Ryan,R000577,timryan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Tim Ryan issued the following letter, calling on The Tamarkin Company and Teamsters Local 377 to continue attempts to settle their labor dispute.
To Whom It May Concern,
I am calling on the management team at Tamarkin, a subsidiary of Giant Eagle, and members of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters Local 377, to quickly and efficiently  negotiate a fair resolution to the ongoing labor dispute. The result of an impasse is simply not in the best interests of the workers, the company or this community.
It is natural and understandable for each side to fight passionately for what they believe in, but common ground and compromise is required to reach a successful outcome. Both sides should be commended for their dedication and perseverance – too much time has been spent to end the process now. The negotiating process was created to prevent costly and unnecessary disruptions that benefit neither labor nor management. It also serves to maintain the fundamental dignity of working people, and provide the company with a skilled and stable workforce.
I am hopeful that both negotiating teams will return to a good faith bargaining process and reach a fair and equitable agreement for all sides. Concerted and continuing efforts to reach an agreement can be challenging but I believe we can come to an agreement before rash decisions are made.
Sincerely,
Tim Ryan
Member of Congress",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://timryan.house.gov/press-release/congressman-tim-ryan-statement-natural-gas-leak-monroe-county-ohio,"Congressman Tim Ryan Statement on Natural Gas Leak in Monroe County, Ohio",2014-12-22,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,OH,Tim Ryan,R000577,timryan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Tim Ryan issued the following statement and summary regarding this week’s natural gas leak in Monroe County:
“My thoughts and prayers go out to the families who were forced to evacuate their homes so close to the holidays as a result of the recent natural gas leak in Monroe County. I am extremely concerned with the frequency in which these accidents have occurred in Ohio this year, and even further disturbed by the slow response time in resolving these situations. It is clear that a more thorough, statewide policy needs to be put into place, along with the necessary funding, to more quickly address these kinds of accidents that are forcing Ohioans from their homes and causing potential damage to our air and water.
“Natural gas development can be a great economic driver for our State, but it must be done with the proper safety protocols, oversight, and preparation. As a member of the House Appropriations Committee, I welcome input from Governor Kasich if further federal funds or technical assistance are needed to bolster Ohio’s efforts in maintaining safety around the natural gas and oil development taking place throughout Ohio.”
Earlier this week, a leak at the Triad Hunter Stalder well pad near Sardis in Monroe County started leaking natural gas. On June 28th, a StatOil North America well pad in Clarington, Ohio leaked chemicals which caused a fire that sent twenty trucks into flames and burned for nearly a week. On May 4th, an oil and gas well in in Beverly, Ohio leaked approximately 1,600 gallons of oil and chemicals into a tributary of the Muskingum River. All three incidents resulted in evacuations of nearby residents.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://timryan.house.gov/press-release/congressman-tim-ryan-statement-omnibus-appropriations-bill,Congressman Tim Ryan Statement on Omnibus Appropriations Bill,2014-12-22,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,OH,Tim Ryan,R000577,timryan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington DC – Congressman Tim Ryan made the following statement tonight after he voted against the Omnibus Appropriations bill:
""This Appropriations bill is a hand- out to the big banks and opens the door for big money to further corrupt our political process all the while gutting the pensions of working class families. While I believe it is important to pass a long term government funding bill, I could not vote in favor of this package that includes so many toxic, partisan provisions. This legislation fails to include an extension of the Health Coverage Tax Credit (HCTC), which helped so many struggling families pay their health bills, including more than 20,000 Delphi salaried retirees. On top of that I am vehemently opposed to the last minute inclusion of language that severely cuts the pensions of retirees enrolled in multi-employer pension plans. These changes would slash the benefits of the hardworking men and women of my District and across the nation who are entitled to the retirement they were promised. 
""This legislation, if enacted, would also be one of the most corrupting campaign finance rules on our books by allowing individuals to contribute to each national party’s three committees a total of $1,555,200 per election cycle. We are continuing down a dangerous path when it comes to how our elections are paid for and how our democracy operates.  Furthermore, I cannot support the inclusion of language, written by Citi Group, that allows taxpayer-insured commercial banks to trade derivatives. Banks have the right to gamble with their own money, but the risk cannot be on the backs of the American taxpayers. I am disappointed that Congress could not compromise and pass a clean government funding bill. The American people deserve better.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://timryan.house.gov/press-release/tim-ryan-david-joyce-join-congressman-sensenbrenner-introduce-comprehensive,"Tim Ryan, David Joyce Join Congressman Sensenbrenner to Introduce Comprehensive Legislation Combating Drug Addiction",2014-12-22,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,OH,Tim Ryan,R000577,timryan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. – With increasing numbers of Americans falling victim to drug addiction and overdoses from heroin and opiates, Congressman Tim Ryan (D, OH-13) and Congressman David Joyce (R, OH-14) joined Congressman James Sensenbrenner (R, WI-5) in introducing bipartisan legislation that could help turn the tide in the struggle against this epidemic. The Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act of 2014 provides a series of incentives and resources designed to encourage states and local communities to advance a continuum of proven strategies to combat addiction. Among other things, the bill would expand prevention and education efforts— particularly aimed at teens, parents and other caretakers, and aging populations—to prevent the abuse of opioids and heroin and to promote treatment and recovery. It would also expand the availability of naloxone to law enforcement agencies and other first responders to help in the reversal of overdoses to save lives, and strengthen prescription drug monitoring programs to help states monitor and track prescription drug diversion. “There is no question that heroin and opiate addiction ruins lives, disrupts families and contributes to destabilizing our neighborhoods,” said Congressman Tim Ryan. “The provisions in this bill have already been shown to work, and will help us fight this epidemic by providing the tools needed by the law enforcement community and others to respond quickly and thoroughly. Since 2007, fatal drug overdoses have been the leading cause of accidental death in our state, and this bill will help reduce those numbers.” ""After 25 years as Geagua County prosecutor, I'm a firm advocate for this legislation because everyone will benefit by providing more tools for communities and agencies to combat this heroin epidemic,"" said Congressman David Joyce. The legislation is the companion to the Senate’s Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act, S. 2839, introduced in September 2014 by Senators Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Rob Portman (R-OH), Kelly Ayotte (R-NH), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Pat Leahy (D-VT). The legislation is supported by 93 organizations, including the National District Attorneys Association, the National Association of State Alcohol and Drug Abuse Directors (NASADAD), Faces and Voices of Recovery, the National Council for Behavioral Health, and the Major County Sheriffs’ Association, among others.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.brown.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/brown-inhofe-praise-signing-of-american-airlines-bill-into-law,"Brown, Inhofe Praise Signing of American Airlines Bill Into Law",2014-12-22,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,OH,Sherrod Brown,B000944,www.brown.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Monday, December 22, 2014
            
	
			
			WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-OH), chairman of the Senate Finance Subcommittee on Social Security, and U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-OK) released the following statements regarding legislation they sponsored being signed into law on Thursday. The bill would enable nearly 100,000 American Airline employees who received lump sum settlements as part of the airline’s 2011 bankruptcy to roll those awards into individual retirement accounts (IRA). Without a legislative fix, nearly 10,000 Ohio workers would be ineligible for the same tax benefits on savings plans that workers at United, Delta, Northwest, and U.S. Airways received.
“This is great news for the nearly 100,000 American Airlines employees who could have lost a significant portion of their retirement savings had action not been taken,” Brown said. “American Airlines employees should have the same deal as everyone else. This law ensures that. I thank Sen. Inhofe for his work on this important bill.”
“I applaud Congress for ending the year by providing American Airline employees with the opportunity to rebuild their future retirement without penalty from the federal government,” Inhofe said. “This new law extends equal treatment to American Airline employees as other airlines that filed for bankruptcy prior to 2007. American Airlines employees more than 5,800 Oklahomans, many of which will be able to benefit from this new law. I appreciate Sen. Brown for his work and support of this legislation.” 
Brown and Inhofe introduced S.2614 on July 16. The legislation first passed by unanimous consent in the U.S. Senate on Dec. 10, signaling strong bipartisan support for passage in Congress. All revenue bills must originate in the U.S. House of Representatives, so on Dec. 11 the House passed its companion legislation, H.R. 2591, and the U.S. Senate passed it on Dec. 13. 
The Worker, Retiree, and Employer Recovery Act of 2008 allowed employees of air service providers, who filed bankruptcy prior to 2007, to roll up to 90 percent of airline bankruptcy settlements into an individual retirement account without paying tax penalties through April 15, 2013.  American Airlines did not declare bankruptcy until Nov. 29, 2011, and had not yet emerged from bankruptcy by April 15, 2013. 
By making modifications to the Federal Aviation Modernization and Reform Act of 2012, H.R. 2591 affords American Airlines employees the option to roll over bankruptcy contributions into individual retirement accounts without tax penalties, which is the same treatment extended to employees of other domestic airlines that went bankrupt prior to 2008. 

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					Press Contact
					Meghan Dubyak/Lauren Kulik
(202) 224-3978",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.portman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/columns?ID=e32ba169-71fc-46e0-8de5-ad8da0354814,Weekly Column: Getting Things Done for Ohio in 2014,2014-12-22,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,OH,Rob Portman,P000449,www.portman.senate.gov,,,legacy,"This past week, I hosted one of our monthly telephone town hall meetings with thousands of Ohioans from all walks of life and also had an employee town hall in northeast Ohio with factory workers, administrative staff, and executives. There were lots of points of view but also a common thread to much of what I heard. Ohioans are tired of gridlock in Washington, and they want Congress to get things done that help them and their families.  I agree with them, and that's why I've worked again this past year with folks on both sides of the aisle to accomplish important things for the people of Ohio, even in a very partisan atmosphere.
Even in a Congress with so much gridlock, I have remained focused on solutions and addressing the issues I hear about from people all across Ohio—from protecting Lake Erie to helping people connect with jobs, to removing regulatory roadblocks for Ohio's small business owners struggling in a weak economy.
My top priority remains boosting the Ohio economy and creating an environment where new jobs can thrive. In the 113th Congress, I had 15 of my bills signed into law, as well as a number of amendments and resolutions. I also introduced 69 bills to help Ohio.
Among other accomplishments, I've successfully fought for Ohio workers who are being hurt by the unfair trade practices of our competitors around the world. For example, we were recently able to win a victory before the International Trade Commission to crack down on countries that illegally dump their steel in the U.S. market, hurting Ohio steel workers.
I've worked to ensure that all Ohioans have the skills they need to take advantage of the new jobs that are coming to our state. When I'm on the road in Ohio, I often hear that employers are having trouble finding workers with the skills needed to fill available jobs. That's why workforce training has been a major focus of mine, and I was pleased when major provisions of my CAREER Act were signed into law. These provisions will help train Ohioans for and connect them with good-paying jobs.
I'm also committed to making Washington do all that it can to ensure that your taxpayer dollars are not wasted. Earlier this year, my Digital Accountability and Transparency (DATA) Act was signed into law. The DATA Act allows taxpayers and lawmakers to track the dollars spent by federal agencies and more easily identify waste, fraud, and abuse in order to create a more efficient government. It expands the Federal Funding Accountability and Transparency Act to require full disclosure of all federal agency expenditures.
Closer to home, it's crucial that we're protecting Lake Erie and Ohio's other freshwater bodies for both their environmental and economic benefits to our state. I was pleased when my legislation to combat harmful algal blooms, the Harmful Algal Blooms and Hypoxia Research and Control Amendments Act, was signed into law.  I was able to create a specific section for the Great Lakes that will ensure federal agencies appropriately prioritize efforts to protect Lake Erie and other freshwaters.
Ohio plays a critical role in ensuring our national defense capabilities are second to none. This year's National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) includes several of my provisions to strengthen Ohio's military installations including my amendment to improve Wright Patt's Air Force Research Lab's ability to hire science, technology, engineering, and math bachelor's and master's degree students directly into the lab. As part of my ongoing efforts to support C-130 modernization, I co-sponsored an amendment to the NDAA that would allow the Air Force to use alternative programs and funding to modernize the C-130 aircraft fleet. The NDAA also provided critical funding for the Joint Systems Manufacturing Center in Lima, ensuring that the important national security work done at the plant can continue.
Finally, an important part of my job is to help Ohioans navigate their way through a vast federal bureaucracy. As a senator, I believe I was hired as an advocate for fellow Ohioans when they need assistance in their dealings with federal agencies. In 2014, our casework team worked on over 2,900 new cases for Ohioans who came to our office in need of aid. We were able to resolve over 74 percent of all of these cases favorably.
I'm proud of our record this past Congress, but I believe we can accomplish even more in the months to come with the new leadership of the Senate.  No matter what party is in charge or how divisive Washington can sometimes be, I will always put the needs of the men and women of Ohio first.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.portman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=7396c4fe-b38e-4df2-b169-8825c534c27e,"Despite Blocked Action in the Senate, Portman Delivers for Ohio in 2014",2014-12-22,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,OH,Rob Portman,P000449,www.portman.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. – Over the past months, Americans have made clear they are tired of partisan bickering and not getting anything done. I couldn’t agree more, which is why I’ve worked to break the gridlock and deliver results for Ohioans. I have remained focused on solutions and addressing the issues I hear about from people all across Ohio—from protecting Lake Erie to helping people connect with jobs to Ohio’s small business owners struggling in a weak economy. My efforts have focused on helping Ohioans, ensuring that our taxpayer dollars are spent wisely, promoting jobs and pro-growth policies, and protecting our national defense. While I am proud of our successes on behalf of Ohioans there is so much more work that needs to be done.
In the 113th Congress, I introduced 69 bills and 15 have been signed into law. 
Here is a rundown of some of our legislative accomplishments in 2014:
Fighting for Ohio’s Workers and Jobs
My top priority in the Senate continues to be boosting Ohio jobs and the economy. That’s why I’ve worked to combat unfair trade practices that hurt Ohio workers. We were able to achieve a success recently when the U.S. International Trade Commission ruled to crack down on countries that illegally dump their steel in the U.S. market, hurting Ohio steel manufacturers. This ruling came after I worked side-by-side with the United Steelworkers and a bipartisan coalition to protect oil country tubular goods being manufactured by hundreds of workers at the US Steel plant in Lorain.  In 2014, I also supported Ohio manufacturers of solar panels, tires, thermal paper, and rebar in the face of trade violations by their foreign competitors.  
When I’m on the road in Ohio, I often hear that employers are having trouble finding workers with the skills needed to fill available jobs. That’s why workforce training has been a major focus of mine and I was pleased when major provisions of my CAREER Act  were signed into law. These provisions will help train Ohioans for the jobs that are out there and connect unemployed Ohioans with good-paying jobs.
Boosting Ohio’s Resources
It’s crucial that we’re protecting Lake Erie and Ohio’s other fresh bodies of water for both their environmental and economic benefits to our state. That’s why I was pleased when my legislation to combat harmful algal blooms, the Harmful Algal Blooms and Hypoxia Research and Control Amendments Act, was signed into law. I was able to create a specific section for the Great Lakes that will ensure federal agencies appropriately prioritize efforts to protect Lake Erie and other freshwaters.
Additionally, my bill that makes technical corrections to External Power Supply (EPS) efficiency standards was signed into law. The bipartisan EPS Service Parts Act of 2014 extends current energy efficiency standards so manufacturers can continue to produce, distribute and service energy efficient EPS for older, out of production products, saving both consumers and manufacturers money.
Improving Government Efficiency and Transparency
I’ve continued my work to make the federal government more efficient and improve transparency through my Digital Accountability and Transparency (DATA) Act which was signed into law earlier this year. The DATA Act allows taxpayers and lawmakers to track the dollars spent by federal agencies and more easily identify waste, fraud, and abuse in order to create a more efficient government. It expands the Federal Funding Accountability and Transparency Act to require full disclosure of all federal agency expenditures.
I also led bipartisan legislation called the Security Clearance Oversight and Reform Enhancement (SCORE) Act which was signed into law. This law increases oversight over how the government conducts background investigations in an effort to fix faults in the system.
Additionally, I was able to pass my Smart Savings Act which will help ensure more federal employees have their retirement funds in an account that provides a larger nest egg and more security as they move towards retirement without increasing federal spending.
Protecting National Security and Ohio Military Installations
I was pleased that this year’s National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) includes several of my provisions to strengthen Ohio’s military installations including my amendment to improve Wright Patt’s Air Force Research Lab’s ability to hire science, technology, engineering, and math bachelor’s and master’s degree students directly into the lab.
As part of my ongoing efforts to support C-130 modernization, I co-sponsored an amendment to the NDAA with U.S. Senator Jon Tester (D-MT) that would allow the Air Force to use alternative programs and funding in addition to the Avionics Modernization Program (AMP) to modernize the C-130 aircraft fleet, with the intent of ensuring the aircraft receive necessary airspace compliance improvements. The language included in the compromise conference bill requires the Air Force to move forward with the AMP program, as I had previously advocated to the Armed Services Committee, while permitting the service to make these near-term airspace compliance improvements. This is an important step to keep these planes flying, while keeping on track with the long-term modernization needs of the fleet.
The NDAA also includes a provision requiring the Defense Department to examine the feasibility of providing mental health screenings for servicemembers prior to enlistment and discharge from service, a central component of bipartisan legislation I introduced called the Medical Evaluation Parity for Servicemembers (MEPS) Act. The NDDA requirement that the military examine this issue marks an important step towards developing a more comprehensive and holistic approach to mental health care in the military that ensures our men and women in uniform receive the care they deserve.
I am proud of my record defending America’s national security interests and core values abroad. In September, the Senate passed my resolution calling on the President to reaffirm America’s commitment to religious liberty by leading an international effort to provide safety for refugees fleeing persecution, ensuring timely processing of visa applications from religious minorities, and working with the Iraqi government to strengthen protections for religious minorities. The legislation, which had 44 bipartisan cosponsors, was supported by the Christian Coalition of America, the Ohio Christian Alliance and the American Center for Law and Justice. 
Honoring Those Who Serve
In an effort to honor those brave men and women who have served our country in World War II, I authored the World War II Memorial Prayer Act. This bill, which was signed into law shortly after D-Day of this year, directs the Secretary of the Interior to install a plaque or inscription at the National World War II Memorial in Washington, D.C. honoring the words that President Franklin D. Roosevelt prayed with the nation on June 6, 1944.
I also authored the Peace Corps Memorial Act which honors Americans who have volunteered to do humanitarian work through the Peace Corps. This legislation, which involves no public funding, was signed into law earlier this year.
This year’s NDAA includes language expanding the eligibility for the Purple Heart to include servicemembers killed or wounded in domestic acts of terrorism inspired by foreign terrorist groups. This would allow the victims of the 2009 Fort Hood shooting and their families to receive the honor and recognition they deserve. I have advocated for this policy change for some time and cosponsored the Honoring Fort Hood Heroes Act, which formed the legislative basis for the provision in the bill.   
I was joined by U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio) in the Senate and Representatives Pat Tiberi (OH-12) and Steve Stivers (OH-15) in the House in passing legislation to rename United States Postal Service facilities located in Central Ohio after fallen heroes from Ohio. H.R. 4919 will rename the United States Postal Service facility located at 715 Shawan Falls Drive in Dublin, Ohio, as the “Lance Corporal Wesley G. Davids and Captain Nicholas J. Rozanski Memorial Post Office” in honor of United States Marine Wesley G. Davids and United States Army National Guardsman Nicholas J. Rozanski. Additionally, my bill to designate the Lance Corporal Daniel Nathan Deyarmin, Jr., Post Office Building was signed into law.
Fighting Human Trafficking
As co-founder of the Senate Caucus to End Human Trafficking, I’ve continued my push to combat human trafficking through federal legislation.  We had a success when key provisions of my Child Sex Trafficking Data and Response Act were signed into law. These provisions require state child welfare workers to identify and document victims of sex trafficking within the child welfare system, which would help provide accurate statistics on these crimes for the first time.
Further, child welfare workers would also be required to immediately report information on missing and abducted children to law enforcement authorities for entry into the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) and to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC).
Additionally, I was able to pass an amendment to the Child Care Development Block Grant (CCDBG) Reauthorization that would protect children from violent criminals. This amendment ensures that a child care staff member convicted of a violent misdemeanor against a child or child pornography is ineligible for employment under CCDBG.
Empowering Local Communities
Through my Improving Trauma Care Act, I was also able to help modernize the federal definition of trauma by including burn injuries, therefore allowing hospitals to apply for funding made available under trauma and emergency care programs.
The Senate also passed a portion of my Propane Supply and Security Act which will allow Ohioans to be better prepared for potential propane shortages. Many Ohioans were affected by last winter’s shortage which caused a tremendous burden for those who rely on propane to heat their homes and Ohio livestock operations and I’m hopeful this legislation will prevent that from happening again.
Commonsense Conservation
In August, the Senate passed my endangered species semipostal stamp bill, the Multinational Species Conservation Funds Semipostal Stamp Act of 2013. This bipartisan legislation reauthorizes a special postage stamp to benefit conservation programs for six years at no cost to the taxpayer. The difference from this first-class stamp is transferred to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to benefit the Multinational Species Conservation Funds which covers tigers, rhinos, elephants, great apes and sea turtles.
Honoring Remarkable Ohioans
I recently announced with Sen. Brown and Rep. Tiberi that our legislation to award the Congressional Gold Medal to the “Golden Bear,” Ohio native Jack Nicklaus, in recognition of his service to the nation in promoting excellence, good sportsmanship, and philanthropy would become law. For over two centuries, Congress has awarded gold medals as an expression of public appreciation for the contributions of its most distinguished citizens.
Advocating On Behalf Of Ohioans, Helping Solve Problems, and Getting Results
Too often, citizens feel alone as they attempt to weave their way through a vast federal bureaucracy.  As a senator, I believe I was hired as an advocate for fellow Ohioans when they need assistance in their dealings with federal agencies.  In 2014, our casework team worked on over 2,900 new cases for Ohioans who came to our office in need of aid.  We were able to resolve over 74% of all of these cases favorably.
I am proud of our team, and wanted to share a few examples of the work we were able to do just this year:
 
 
A Cincinnati businessman was required to pay restitution to the Internal Revenue Service in 2012 in excess of $100,000 due to an oversight.  While payment was made in August of 2012, his attorney and accountant continued to run into roadblocks on having the payment applied to his account.  After reaching out to my office, we were able to quickly have the IRS identify the payment and properly credit his account, bringing to an end a two year frustration.
 
 
 
A Coshocton man who had his Social Security benefits terminated by error and placed his home in jeopardy reached out to our office for help.  My staff was quickly able to work with Social Security officials to identify the error and immediately have his benefits reinstated and check issued. 
 
 
 
A Westerville organization that provides a weekend food program for children in the Westerville City Schools and raises awareness of the hunger issue in the community wrote to our office for assistance in expediting their application for nonprofit status with the Internal Revenue Service.  My team was able to work with IRS officials to fast track the application and as a result, the organization was was eligible to compete for and was one of 40 organizations nationwide to receive a $25,000 grant.
 
 
 
A veteran who lost his construction business due to the economy and his wife developing cancer fell behind on payments on the home they chose to retire in.  The county veterans service office referred him to our office and we were able to help him navigate the application process for the Save A Dream program. He was approved and their home was saved.  
 
 
 
After a University of Cincinnati student was seriously injured in an off-campus robbery and hospitalized, my staff was able to work with the U.S. Consulate in India to immediately expedite visitors visas for his parents to travel to Cincinnati to be with their son.  
 
The letters I get back from Ohio families like these make this one of the most rewarding parts of the job:
""Your office is wonderful.  My case is very complex and unusual.  Nevertheless, your staff quickly grasped the complexities of my case and went to work to help me get my backpay/retroactive benefits.  Your staff showed such genuine care and concern and tremendous understanding about me and my case.""  M.D. - Cincinnati, Ohio
""With a great deal of enthusiasm and compliments, I am writing this letter to express my appreciation for your Columbus, Ohio office.  They exercised their position to cut through the red tape and what I viewed as incompetence at the IRS to get the job done!  I literally spent countless hours getting nowhere.  Your staff immediately set things in motion.  The display of professionalism, determination and direction to the IRS people ultimately brought resolution to this nightmare.  What rare and refreshing attributes.""   J.S. - Cincinnati, Ohio
""I want to take a moment to thank you and your staff from the bottom of my heart for your help.  I can honestly say that without your help that we would have lost our home without a doubt....If there is a heaven, you and your team have earned a place.""  B.O. - Fremont, Ohio
""My wife and I want to thank you and your staff for your help in resolving our issues regarding recovery of our 2011 and 2012 Medicare reimbursements.  We have now received refunds of all four charges.  We believe that it was only through your help and the help of your staff that we were able to accomplish this...Without your help and contacts within the Social Security bureaucracy, we doubt that we would have been able to finally receive our refunds."" J.M. - Sylvania, Ohio
""...You may think you just completed another request from a veteran, but that is an understatement.  I contacted Senator Portman's office because I had a difficult and almost impossible request. I knew that the only way I had any chance of making the correction in my military record was through the influence of my Senator and the effective work of his staff.  You accomplished that challenge.""  D.B. - Medina, Ohio
""I would like to express my gratitude to you and your staff for assisting Hathaway Brown School in securing the visas to India for the Harriet Mullin Barry India program.  Your staff is a testament to you and the Senate.  The girls recently returned from India and had an incredible time.""  J.V. - Shaker Heights, Ohio
""On behalf of my family and my mother, I would like to express the utmost sincere gratitude to your office, as well as to your dedicated and professional staff members for helping my family reunite this summer...Your immigration specialist was instrumental in helping my mom and I navigate through the complexities of the modern day international visa process, as well as addressing immigrant visa application related issues...we feel very blessed that among numerous political offices, there was one that actually treated us as important.""  S.K. - Cleveland, Ohio
 
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http://billjohnson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398361,Budget bill reflects the reality of divided government,2014-12-21,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,OH,Bill Johnson,J000292,billjohnson.house.gov,,,legacy,"There's been much written and discussed about the recently passed ""Omnibus"" spending bill - legislation that funds each of the federal agencies - approved by bipartisan majorities in both the House and Senate. Some of the criticism has been pointed and off-base. While far from perfect, the legislation reflects the reality of divided government, and takes positive steps toward making our federal government more fiscally responsible, effective, efficient and accountable to the American people.
The omnibus funds federal agencies through Sept. 30, with the exception of the Department of Homeland Security, which is funded only through February. Contrary to some reports, the bill does not fully fund the president's executive order to grant amnesty to millions of illegal immigrants. Funding for the president's actions comes through DHS, and the reason DHS is only funded for approximately 60 days (all the other agencies are funded through next September), is to enable the next Congress (taking office in January with a Republican Senate majority) to address President Obama's executive action on immigration - an action I believe was beyond his Constitutional power.
Two of the most important components of this legislation are that, first, it establishes the lowest federal discretionary spending level in five years. Second, it eliminates the federal mandate to implement Common Core, thereby returning important education decisions to states, local school authorities, teachers and parents. These are positive steps forward.
The legislation provides important resources to our military, including: a pay raise for our troops; upgrades to the Navy's submarine fleet; prohibits the release of Guantanamo detainees into the U.S.; funds the fight against Ebola; and, pays for our efforts to combat the ISIL terrorist group and contains support for Ukraine.
Some reports claim that the bill fully funds Obamacare. This is not true. In fact, the omnibus begins pushing back against Obamacare - an uphill climb given that the White House and the majority of the Senate are staunch supporters of it. For example, the ""Omnibus"" prohibits funds for Obamacare risk corridors, cuts the panel of Washington bureaucrats making medical decisions on the American people's behalf by $10 million, provides no new funding for Obamacare and requires the IRS to report to Congress on improper payments of Obamacare tax subsidies. I'll continue to fight to replace this costly, misguided law. In the meantime, this is progress.
The omnibus cuts the EPA's budget for the fifth year in a row - a 20 percent decrease since FY 2010. This takes the EPA to the lowest staffing levels since 1989, and will slow their efforts to destroy coal jobs and increase our energy costs. It also cuts the IRS by $345 million, which is $1.5 billion below the president's request for the agency. Are the cuts to either of these rogue agencies enough? No. Both need fundamental reform - from the ground up. But, living with the reality of divided government, these cuts represent steps in the right direction.
Having had careers in both the Air Force and the private sector before serving in the House, one of the most frustrating and eye-opening parts of my work on your behalf is dealing with entrenched Washington politicians - those dedicated to sacrificing the good at the altar of the perfect in an effort to make a name for themselves and protect their jobs. It's a practice that isn't compatible with a democratic republic, particularly one that has different parties in power that must work together to address the significant challenges that America faces.
I'm reminded of what Ronald Reagan said when he was criticized by some of his friends for finding common ground solutions during his presidency. Reagan said ""(they) thought that if I couldn't get everything I asked for, I should jump off the cliff with the flag flying - go down in flames. No, if I can get 70 or 80 percent of what I'm trying to get ... I'll take that and then continue to try to get the rest in the future.""
Washington, D.C., has been dysfunctional for a long time; and, as a result of gridlock-induced inaction, America faces many serious challenges that are lined up like planes on a runway: Getting our economy moving, eliminating crippling regulations, reforming our tax code, our $18 trillion national debt, improving our public education, ISIL, Russia, China - this list goes on and on. These are big issues, and no politician or political party has all the answers to resolving them. As Americans, we're all in this together, and we're going to have to work together to solve them.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://stivers.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398484,Stivers will serve on House Rules Committee next year,2014-12-19,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,OH,Steve Stivers,S001187,stivers.house.gov,,,legacy,"Stivers will serve on House Rules Committee next year 
   
    
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        Rep. Steve Stivers will serve on the House Committee on Rules during the next Congress, his office announced this week.
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      Rep. Steve Stivers will serve on the House Committee on Rules during the next Congress, his office announced this week.The Committee on Rules, one of the oldest standing House committees, is charged with determining which bills reach the House floor for a vote. The committee also determines how long and under what rules the full body of the House will debate each bill. The committee has been nicknamed ""The Speaker's Committee"" because it was chaired by the speaker through 1910 and is the primary means by which the speaker manages which bills go to the House Floor. “As a small businessman, Congressman Stivers brings a vast amount of experience to the Rules Committee, and I look forward to the work we will accomplish together,” said Rules Committee Chair Pete Sessions, R-Texas.  Stivers will continue to serve on the House Financial Services Committee.
    
  
  
  
    
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http://www.brown.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/brown-calls-on-cms-to-protect-seniors-by-preventing-them-from-losing-their-doctors,Brown Calls On CMS to Protect Seniors by Preventing Them from Losing Their Doctors,2014-12-19,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,OH,Sherrod Brown,B000944,www.brown.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Bipartisan, Bicameral Letter Urges Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Administrator to Provide Notice to Seniors about Changes in Networks and Plans While Ensuring Uninterrupted, High-Quality Care. Brown Introduced Legislation to Help Protect Medicare Patients by Ensuring a Patient Bill of Rights
				
			
			Friday, December 19, 2014
            
	
			
			WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-OH) calls for increased consumer protections in Medicare Advantage (MA) plans. In a letter to Marilyn Tavenner, Administrator for the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), Brown and 19 of his Congressional colleagues urged the agency to require MA plans to fix their provider networks before each annual open enrollment period to provide adequate notice to seniors about changes in networks and plans while ensuring uninterrupted, high-quality care.
“Over the last year, thousands of doctors and other providers have been removed without cause from MA plan networks, needlessly disrupting the care of seniors across the country,” Brown wrote. “This blatant bait and switch should not be allowed. Therefore we urge you to require that MA plans fix their provider networks in advance of the annual open enrollment period in your FY 2016 call letter. This will allow Medicare Advantage enrollees to select a plan with a provider network that meets their needs. It will also give MA enrollees security in knowing that their providers cannot be dropped from the network in between enrollment periods.”
In advance of next year’s open enrollment period, the lawmakers are urging CMS to fix their provider networks to ensure that when MA enrollees select a plan, they can be sure that their providers will not be dropped from their network in between enrollment periods.
In addition to Brown, the letter was signed by U.S. Sens. Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Rand Paul (R-KY), and U.S. Reps. Rosa DeLauro (D-CT-3), Steve Cohen (D-TN-9), Adam Schiff (D-CA-28), Lloyld Doggett (D-TX-35), Charles Rangel (D-NY-13), Keith Ellison (D-MN-5), Doris Matsui (D-CA-6), Barbara Lee (D-CA-13), Brian Higgins (D-NY-26), Chellie Pingree (D-ME-1), Lois Frankel (D-FL-22), Elizabeth Esty (D-CT-5), Joe Courtney (D-CT-2), Lujan Grisham (D-NM-1), and Mark Takano (D-CA-41). The letter has been endorsed by the American Medical Association.
The letter outlined several steps Tavenner could take to ensure additional beneficiary protections, including: a special enrollment period, more advance notice to enrollees about changes in their provider network, and up-to-date provider directories.
In response to stories from constituents about doctors being dropped from their MA plans in the middle of the year, Brown, Blumenthal, and DeLauro introduced the Medicare Advantage Participant Bill of Rights Act in June. This bill would require MA plans to finalize their provider networks 60 days before the annual open enrollment period begins to ensure that enrollees know what providers will be covered before they enroll in an MA plan. It would also prohibit plans from dropping doctors without cause outside of open enrollment, ensuring seniors would not have to worry about abruptly losing access to their doctors.
Full text of the today’s letter is below.





 
December 19, 2014
 
Marilyn Tavenner
Administrator for the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services 200 Independence Avenue, S.W.  Washington, D.C. 20201
Dear Administrator Tavenner:
We are writing to ask that you increase consumer protections in the Medicare Advantage (MA) plan offerings in the Fiscal Year 2016 Call Letter. Past Call Letters have reflected a willingness by Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to make changes to requirements regarding adequate notice to consumers about provider networks in these plans and offering better options for seniors who have had changes foisted on them mid-plan year. While we appreciate your attention to this matter, we believe much more must be done to provide potential enrollees with adequate information to make decisions about MA plans. 
Over the last year, thousands of doctors and other providers have been removed without cause from MA plan networks, needlessly disrupting the care of seniors across the country.  This blatant bait and switch should not be allowed.  Therefore we urge you to require that MA plans to fix their provider networks in advance of the annual open enrollment period in you FY 2016 call letter.  This will allow Medicare Advantage enrollees to select a plan with a provider network that meets their needs.  It will also give MA enrollees security in knowing that their providers cannot be dropped from the network in between enrollment periods. 
If MA Plans continue to be allowed to drop providers during the middle of the plan year, we have several suggestions that we believe are necessary to provide fairness to seniors and should be included in the 2016 Call Letter. 
Special Enrollment Periods.  We understand that Medicare traditionally provides services rather than access to specific providers; however, because the very nature of MA plans relies on the use of specific networks of providers within plans, CMS has a responsibility to ensure that enrollees will receive the plan as advertised.  If CMS continues to allow insurers to make changes to provider networks mid-plan year, the Agency must strengthen the Special Enrollment Period (SEP) for subscribers whose provider has been dropped, allowing them to change their plan. 
Criteria for Special Enrollment Periods.  CMS should define the “significant” provider changes that would make an enrollee eligible for a SEP in a way that reflects the needs of individuals, allowing  beneficiaries to change plans if their providers who were a part of the network when they signed up for a specific plan are no longer in-network. At the same time, we ask the agency to carefully monitor the use of such SEPs and any related marketing by health plans, to minimize gaming and other discriminatory practices. These policy changes will preserve beneficiary choice and minimize disruptions in care continuity. 
Notice to Enrollees.  Adequate notice is essential to making sure that seniors can make informed decisions about how to utilize Medicare to fit their needs.   CMS’ notice to enrollees through the Annual Notice of Change continues to inadequately inform enrollees about the status of provider networks and whether individual providers are still in-network. At a minimum, we urge CMS to adopt the proposal that was initially presented in last year’s draft Call Letter of notifying enrollees 60 days rather than 30 days before the open enrollment period of any changes to the provider network. 
Up to Date and Practical Directories.  CMS must ensure that provider directories, particularly those that are available online, are kept up to date and provide accurate information to enrollees on office addresses, specialty information, languages the providers speak, and whether providers are accepting new patients. Furthermore, CMS should make all provider directories more useable by linking them to the Plan Finder.
Network Standards.  Finally, CMS should consider applying network standards for other plans to MA plans. Requiring essential community providers would help ensure that provider networks are indeed adequate to meet the needs of enrollees. Most importantly, the CMS commitment to active annual review of Medicare-Medicaid Plans should be applied to all MA plans. The aggressive changes to plans that have affected our communities over the past few years are simply unacceptable. Additional oversight by CMS of plans that serve the Medicare population is vital to making sure that the plans that seniors select during open enrollment are not gutted by insurers at a time when seniors are left with no options or recourse.  
We look forward to working together with you on implementing these ideas and others that will better protect seniors. Thank you very much for your attention to this matter.                                       
 
Sincerely,
 








###
			
				
					Press Contact
					Meghan Dubyak/Lauren Kulik
(202) 224-3978",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://jordan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=397881,Jonathan Gruber and health care deception,2014-12-18,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,OH,Jim Jordan,J000289,jordan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Last week, Jonathan Gruber testified before Congress. He’s of course the MIT professor who, in a now-famous series of videos, called American voters stupid. Or, to state it plainly, he’s the guy who took your tax money and lied to you about Obamacare, and then when it became law he made fun of you and bragged about it.
Of course this is nothing new. In fact it’s just another sad chapter in the story of deception that surrounds the 2010 healthcare law. You might remember some of these statements: The Obama administration and its allies said that if you liked your health care plan, you could keep it. They said if you liked your doctor you could keep your doctor. You were told the Obamacare website would run smoothly and efficiently, and that it would be secure. And you were told that health insurance premiums for families would go down by an average of $2,500 annually.
Each of these statements proved to be false. PolitiFact named President Obama’s statement about keeping your healthcare plan as 2013’s lie of the year. And of course we know about the website and health care costs. Time has shown that the American people were deceived.
Democrat Elijah Cummings said Gruber’s statements were “unforced errors.” The American people have a different name for them: they call it lying. And the sad fact is, the lack of transparency continues. When Gruber was asked how much he was paid by state and federal taxpayers for his work on Obamacare and later for his help setting up state healthcare exchanges, he refused to give an answer. He takes your money, deceives you, insults your intelligence, and doesn’t have the decency to tell us how much he was paid.
And he’s not the only one who continues to deceive. On the heels of the Gruber videos came the revelation that the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) padded its Obamacare enrollment numbers with almost 400,000 dental plans to push the law’s enrollment numbers over the goal of seven million the first year.
Marilyn Tavenner, administrator of CMS, was also at the hearing. She told the committee that she hasn’t informed the millions of Americans who’ve enrolled in Obamacare that their premiums may increase dramatically and they may see a tax increase this summer. This is, of course, due to the case before the U.S. Supreme Court, King v. Burwell.
The question in King v. Burwell is whether citizens in states that have not set up a state exchange can still receive a federal tax subsidy. Gruber said on tape that the language in Obamacare does not allow it.
Regardless of what the Supreme Court decides, the next Congress must put in place a healthcare model that works. We need to send legislation to the White House that reduces oppressive federal mandates, increases American freedom and opportunity, and encourages economic growth.
The House of Representatives has already passed legislation that accomplishes this. Those bills are stuck in the Senate. Next year, a Republican-controlled Congress will finally be able to advance its solutions to the President’s desk. President Obama may veto such legislation due to his faith in big government to solve our nation’s problems. But the burden will rest on his shoulders, and his actions will frame the 2016 presidential election. That November, Gruber’s “stupid” American voters will have the chance to prove him wrong.
​This op-ed appeared in the Marysville Journal-Tribune​.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://latta.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=397906,Latta Statement on Changes in U.S. Policy Toward Cuba,2014-12-18,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,OH,Robert Latta,L000566,latta.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Bob Latta (R-OH) today issued the following statement regarding President Obama’s announcement of changes in U.S. policy toward Cuba:  
""While I am pleased Mr. Gross has been returned to his family, the President’s unilateral action has sent a dangerous message to the rest of the world that America will concede our principles,"" said Latta. ""By reversing 50 years of foreign policy in just one day, the President has made it more dangerous for Americans and weakened the United States’ standing. This reckless action will only embolden the Castro regime and place freedom and democracy farther out of reach for Cuba.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://stivers.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398476,Share Your Obamacare Story,2014-12-18,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,OH,Steve Stivers,S001187,stivers.house.gov,,,legacy,"I have heard from constituents across Ohio’s 15th Congressional District about the crippling effects of Obamacare. I would like to take this opportunity to share a few of those stories with you today.
          share:
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      I have heard from constituents across Ohio’s 15th Congressional District about the crippling effects of Obamacare. I would like to take this opportunity to share a few of those stories with you today.Recently, Dennis from Hilliard, Ohio, reached out to my office to convey his family’s struggles with Obamacare. Dennis health care costs have skyrocketed and he now will be paying about $1,400 per month for insurance for one of the cheapest plans available to him. Understandably, he is worried because making ends meet will become that much harder for his family. Mildred of Columbus, Ohio, another constituent and retired teacher’s aide, shared her story with me as well.  Before Obamacare was enacted she had excellent insurance from her employer, which covered her heart surgery and other health issues.  However, when Obamacare went into effect, she saw her premiums dramatically increase from $66.00 per month to $229.00 per month.  Unfortunately this was more than she could afford and was forced to make a choice—cancel her policy or pay her other living expenses.  Now that Mildred has no insurance she is worried about how she will afford another heart operation. Overall Ohio families have seen their coverage increase to an average of $372.70 per month—a 12.1 percent increase from last year. While, small businesses have had premiums increased by over 14 percent in the last year because of the health care law.    Stories and facts like these make it absolutely clear that this healthcare law is not working. That is why, I have voted over 50 times to defund or repeal Obamacare. I have also voted in support of the “Keep Your Health Plan Act” to allow Americans to keep their health insurance plans that are currently available on the individual market.  I also believe in common sense health care reforms that improve accessibility, while lowering health care costs across the board, such as: tort reform, providing flexibility by expanding health savings accounts, and promoting healthier lifestyle choices.   I value the feedback from constituents like Dennis and Mildred, and that is why I also want to hear from you. You can share your thoughts with me by visiting my website and taking “Share Your Obamacare Story” survey at the bottom of the home page of my website (www.stivers.house.gov).    As always if you have any questions about the health care law, or any other federal issues, please feel free to contact my office in Washington, D.C. at (202) 225-2015, in Hilliard at (614) 771-4968, in Lancaster at (740) 654-2654, or in Wilmington at (937) 283-7049. -30-",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://tiberi.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=394717,IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: WASHINGTON POST EDITORIAL:,2014-12-18,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,OH,Pat Tiberi,T000462,tiberi.house.gov,,,legacy,"IN RECENT months, the outlook for the Castro regime in Cuba was growing steadily darker. The modest reforms it adopted in recent years to improve abysmal economic conditions had stalled, due to the regime’s refusal to allow Cubans greater freedoms. Worse, the accelerating economic collapse of Venezuela meant that the huge subsidies that have kept the Castros afloat for the past decade were in peril. A growing number of Cubans were demanding basic human rights, such as freedom of speech and assembly.
On Wednesday, the Castros suddenly obtained a comprehensive bailout — from the Obama administration. President Obama granted the regime everything on its wish list that was within his power to grant; a full lifting of the trade embargo requires congressional action. Full diplomatic relations will be established, Cuba’s place on the list of terrorism sponsors reviewed and restrictions lifted on U.S. investment and most travel to Cuba. That liberalization will provide Havana with a fresh source of desperately needed hard currency and eliminate U.S. leverage for political reforms.
As part of the bargain, Havana released Alan Gross, a U.S. Agency for International Development contractor who was unjustly imprisoned five years ago for trying to help Cuban Jews. Also freed was an unidentified U.S. intelligence agent in Cuba — as were three Cuban spies who had been convicted of operations in Florida that led to Cuba’s 1996 shoot down of a plane carrying anti-Castro activists. While Mr. Obama sought to portray Mr. Gross’s release as unrelated to the spy swap, there can be no question that Cuba’s hard-line intelligence apparatus obtained exactly what it sought when it made Mr. Gross a de facto hostage.
No wonder Yoani Sánchez, Cuba’s leading dissident blogger, concluded Wednesday that “Castroism has won” and predicted that for weeks Cubans will have to endure proclamations by the government that it is the “winner of its ultimate battle.”



Mr. Obama argued that his sweeping change of policy was overdue because the strategy of isolating the Communist regime “has had little effect.” In fact, Cuba has been marginalized in the Americas for decades, and the regime has been deprived of financial resources it could have used to spread its malignant influence in the region, as Venezuela has done. That the embargo has not succeeded in destroying communism does not explain why all sanctions should be lifted without any meaningful political concessions by Cuba.


U.S. officials said the regime agreed to release 53 political prisoners and allow more access to the Internet. But Raúl Castro promised four years ago to release all political prisoners, so the White House has purchased the same horse already sold to the Vatican and Spain.
The administration says its move will transform relations with Latin America, but that is naive. Countries that previously demanded an end to U.S. sanctions on Cuba will not now look to Havana for reforms; instead, they will press the Obama administration not to sanction Venezuela. Mr. Obama says normalizing relations will allow the United States to be more effective in promoting political change in Cuba. That is contrary to U.S. experience with Communist regimes such as Vietnam, where normalization has led to no improvements on human rights in two decades. Moreover, nothing in Mr. Obama’s record of lukewarm and inconstant support for democratic change across the globe can give Ms. Sánchez and her fellow freedom fighters confidence in this promise.
The Vietnam outcome is what the Castros are counting on: a flood of U.S. tourists and business investment that will allow the regime to maintain its totalitarian system indefinitely. Mr. Obama may claim that he has dismantled a 50-year-old failed policy; what he has really done is give a 50-year-old failed regime a new lease on life.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://timryan.house.gov/press-release/congressmen-ryan-and-johnson-call-review-anti-dumping-and-countervailing-duty-cases,Congressmen Ryan and Johnson Call for Review of Anti-Dumping and Countervailing Duty Cases on Aluminum Extrusions from China,2014-12-18,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,OH,Tim Ryan,R000577,timryan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tim Ryan and Congressman Bill Johnson today urged the U.S. Commerce Department urging the Department to “effectively apply the U.S. trade remedy laws and fully enforce the antidumping (“AD”) and countervailing duty (“CVD”) orders on aluminum extrusions from China.” Joining Ryan and Johnson on the letter were Congressmen Pete Sessions (TX-32), Lynn Westmoreland (GA-3), Walter Jones (NC-3), Paul Tonko (NY-20) and Collin Peterson (MN-7), and Congresswomen Ann McLane Kuster (NH-2) and Diane Black (TN-6).                                                      
“Once again we are faced with the prospect of the Chinese taking advantage of American workers by importing aluminum products to the United States that have been subsidized by the Chinese government and once again I stand in opposition to allowing this to happen,” said Congressman Tim Ryan (OH-D). “The U.S. Commerce Department needs to ensure that not one more worker should lose their job or one more factory should close because of unfair Chinese imports.”
“It’s vital that we continue to protect American industries from unfair trade practices – Pennex Aluminum Company in Leetonia is just one of the companies that has been harmed by China’s imbalanced trade policies in the past.  This letter asks the Commerce Department to fully enforce U.S. Trade Remedy Laws to protect hard-working Americans in Eastern Ohio, and across the country, from trade manipulation by Chinese aluminum producers.  I’m proud to have joined Congressman Ryan in authoring this bipartisan letter,” said Congressman Bill Johnson (OH-R).
Aluminum extrusions are extruded metal profiles in nearly every shape and size used in virtually every type of industry in the United States.  Aluminum extrusions are incorporated into everything from computers, cars, appliances, doors, windows, and large scale commercial buildings.
In May 2011, the U.S. government imposed trade orders on Chinese products. However, the relief from this decision is currently at risk due to a number of recent determinations made by the Department of Commerce narrowing the scope of the orders and the Commerce’s continued reliance on the London Metals Exchange (“LME”) benchmark to calculate subsidies. This benchmark does not accurately reflect the actual price to obtain primary aluminum.
America’s aluminum extrusions industry, with $4.6 billion in sales in 2010, employs approximately 30,000 direct workers and hundreds of thousands of indirect workers, all of which benefit the economy of the United States and our communities.  The preservation of these jobs, which are vital to the stability and growth of this industry and important for American manufacturing, are endangered if the unfair trade practices of Chinese aluminum producers are not fully addressed. 
###
Text of letter follows:
December 11, 2014
Mr. Paul Piquado
	Assistant Secretary for Enforcement and Compliance
	U.S. Department of Commerce
	14th Street & Constitution Avenue, NW
	Washington, DC  20230
Dear Assistant Secretary Piquado: 
On behalf of our constituents in the domestic aluminum extrusions industry, we are writing to encourage the Department of Commerce (“Department”) to effectively apply the U.S. trade remedy laws and fully enforce the antidumping (“AD”) and countervailing duty (“CVD”) orders on aluminum extrusions from China. 
As the Department is aware, it was only a few years ago that the U.S. aluminum extrusions industry was on the verge of collapse. Dumped and subsidized aluminum extrusions from China were surging into the U.S. market at a rapid pace.  At its peak, Chinese producers of aluminum extrusions held 19 percent of what was a $5.4 billion dollar U.S. market, more than any other source of foreign imports combined. This wave of low priced imports crippled domestic production, reduced capacity, and caused mill closures and significant job loss. 
In response, the domestic industry petitioned the U.S. Government for relief under the U.S. trade remedy laws.  The Department properly concluded that Chinese producers were selling their aluminum extrusions in the U.S. market at dumping and subsidy margins of 33 percent and up to 374 percent, respectively.  This dumping and subsidization was found to be injuring U.S. producers and their workers.  As a result, in May 2011, the Department imposed trade orders on these Chinese products. 
Our constituents now inform us that this relief is at risk due to a number of recent determinations made by the Department regarding whether certain aluminum extrusions are covered under the scope of the AD and CVD orders. It is our understanding that the agency is increasingly and inappropriately narrowing the scope of the orders by excluding aluminum extrusions with incidental non-extruded parts from coverage.  This is contrary to the plain language of the scope, which clearly covers all aluminum extrusions whether fabricated and/or incorporated as parts into a subassembly with non-extruded parts.  We are concerned that any interpretation otherwise defeats the very purpose of the orders and threatens renewed harm to the domestic industry and its workers and threatens to allow what should otherwise be a limited exception to become the rule.
We have also been informed that in calculating the subsidy for the provision of primary aluminum for less than adequate remuneration, the Department inappropriately relied on a London Metals Exchange (“LME”) benchmark in its preliminary determination in the current administrative review of the CVD order.  Specifically, we understand that the Department’s regulations require that its benchmark reflect the price that a Chinese company would pay if it purchased primary aluminum on the global market.  However, the LME cash price selected by the Department does not reflect the full “all-in” price a purchaser would pay without the addition of regional premiums to take physical possession of the product. We also understand that the LME cash settlement price is largely based on distorted pricing for Chinese aluminum.  For these reasons, we are concerned that the Department’s continued reliance on an LME benchmark will, contrary to its statutory mandate, prevent the agency from calculating an accurate subsidy margin.
In closing, we appreciate the Department’s attention to these critical issues and are confident that the agency will take our concerns under serious consideration.  Successfully addressing these issues is vital to ensuring the continued health and viability of the domestic aluminum extrusions industry and its workers.
Respectfully submitted,
Congressman Tim Ryan
	Congressman Bill Johnson
	Congressman Pete Sessions
	Congresswoman Diane Black
	Congressman Lynn Westmoreland
	Congressman Walter Jones
	Congressman Paul Tonko
	Congressman Collin Peterson
	Congresswoman Ann Mclane Kuster",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://wenstrup.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398521,Local Congressmen Highlight LNG Connection to Region,2014-12-18,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,OH,Brad Wenstrup,W000815,wenstrup.house.gov,,,legacy,"An announced $1 billion service agreement with GE for the nation’s first Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) export facility in over 40 years, permitted to deliver natural gas to non-free trade agreement nations, is being touted by southwest Ohio’s congressional delegation as further evidence of the positive local impacts resulting from the nation’s energy revolution. 
General Electric (GE) Oil & Gas and Cheniere Energy announced a 20-plus year, $1 billion services and maintenance agreement for the Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) non-FTA export facility. GE will supply parts and provide maintenance, including Cincinnati-based technical support, for the Sabine Pass facility located in Louisiana. Previous investments at the Louisiana facility include GE gas turbines manufactured in Ohio. The Cheniere facility is one of the largest customers of turbines manufactured from the Cincinnati area this year.   
The local congressional delegation, including Congressmen John Boehner (OH-08), Brad Wenstrup (OH-02), Steve Chabot (OH-01) and Mike Turner (OH-10), point to LNG export legislation that passed the House of Representatives this summer as the next step towards American energy leadership. The Domestic Prosperity and Global Freedom Act would expedite the federal permitting process for LNG export facilities, boosting the domestic economy and providing more secure energy options for U.S. allies abroad.
Congressman John Boehner (R – West Chester): ""This isn't just great news for Southwest Ohio and the hardworking folks at GE; it's great news for the entire country. Republicans will continue to push a true all-of-the-above energy strategy that creates jobs here at home and encourages investment in America's vast natural resources.""
Congressman Brad Wenstrup (R – Cincinnati): “This latest development builds on Cincinnati’s role in our nation’s energy revolution. Energy development means new, good-paying jobs across the board, from drilling to manufacturing to transportation. Unfortunately, the federal government is stalling our energy development, denying hardworking Americans the work they’re ready to do.  Accelerated energy development, including more LNG export facilities, directly expands our economic opportunities and workforce right here in Ohio.”
Congressman Steve Chabot (R - Cincinnati): “This announcement is great news for the local economy, and it underscores another tangible benefit of a sound national energy policy that promotes domestic energy production.  Not only do consumers enjoy lower energy prices, but increased domestic production spurs economic growth and job creation across the country, and right here in Cincinnati.”
Congressman Mike Turner (R - Dayton): “This agreement recognizes the innovative work taking place at GE and is a true testament to the quality of their workforce.”
 
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.brown.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/following-fda-warning-on-the-dangers-of-powdered-caffeine-brown-calls-for-swift-action-to-ban-sale-of-powdered-caffeine,"Following FDA Warning on the Dangers of Powdered Caffeine, Brown Calls for Swift Action to Ban Sale of Powdered Caffeine",2014-12-18,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,OH,Sherrod Brown,B000944,www.brown.senate.gov,,,legacy,"The Parents of Logan Stiner – an 18-Year-Old Northeast Ohio High School Senior Who Died After Ingesting Too Much Caffeine – Met with Brown and Officials from the FDA in Washington Last Week
				
			
			Thursday, December 18, 2014
            
	
			
			WASHINGTON, D.C. – Following a warning from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on the dangers of powdered caffeine, U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-OH) is calling for swift action to immediately ban the retail sale of the lethal product. Last week, Brown met with the parents of Logan Stiner, a senior at Keystone High School in LaGrange, who died just three days before his high school graduation after ingesting too much powdered caffeine. During their trip to Washington, D.C., the Stiners also met with FDA officials, which prompted this week’s warning on the FDA website.
“The FDA’s warning signals the serious threat posed by powdered caffeine,” Brown said. “But a message on the FDA’s website won’t prevent teenagers from buying and using this lethal powder. While it’s too late to save Logan Stiner, the FDA must immediately ban the retail sale of powdered caffeine before more lives are lost.”
During the meeting with Brown and U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) in Washington, the Stiner family joined the parents of Wade Sweatt – a 24-year-old Georgia resident who also died after ingesting caffeine powder – and advocates from the Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI) to deliver a citizen petition urging the FDA to ban the sale of powdered caffeine.
There have been at least two deaths from powdered caffeine. In Ohio alone, more than 200 people have been admitted to the hospital for caffeine overdoses, including five life-threatening cases. According to the FDA, a single teaspoon of pure caffeine is roughly equivalent to the amount in 25 cups of coffee – more than six times the recommended daily amount of caffeine for an adult. Although the FDA has alerted consumers to the dangers of powdered caffeine on its website, these products remain on the shelves and available online without any sort of regulation, warnings, or protections.
In October, Brown joined Stiner’s parents in calling on the FDA to ban the sale of this lethal substance. Brown and Blumenthal sent a letter to FDA Commissioner Margaret Hamburg on October 23.
###
			
				
					Press Contact
					Meghan Dubyak/Lauren Kulik
(202) 224-3978",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.brown.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/president-signs-browns-legislation-on-sudden-unexpected-infant-and-child-deaths,President Signs Brown's Legislation on Sudden Unexpected Infant and Child Deaths,2014-12-18,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,OH,Sherrod Brown,B000944,www.brown.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Senate and House Passed Brown’s Bipartisan Legislation to Improve Data Collection and Surveillance of Stillbirths and Sudden Unexpected Deaths in Infants and Children to Improve Prevention Efforts
				
			
			Thursday, December 18, 2014
            
	
			
			WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, President Obama signed legislation authored by U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-OH) that would help doctors and researchers better understand the causes of stillbirths, Sudden Unexpected Infant Deaths (SUID), and Sudden Unexplained Deaths in Childhood (SUDC).
“I am honored to join the countless families and advocates in Ohio who have fought – in the midst of unspeakable grief – to advance this bill,” Brown said. “But the fight isn’t over – there are still too many lives cut short and too many families left with questions. Our nation’s infant mortality rate is too high; we must pursue every avenue to prevent the tragedies that take the lives of children and babies.”
The Sudden Unexpected Death Data Enhancement and Awareness Act will enhance the current system used to report on infant and childhood deaths so that patterns become clear and we can better prevent these deaths. Originally introduced by the late Sen. Frank Lautenberg (D-NJ), Brown took up the legislation and re-introduced the bill in the Senate with Sen. Kelly Ayotte (R-NH), and U.S. Rep. Frank Pallone Jr (D-NJ-6) introduced the House bill. 
This legislation will build on existing activities at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to improve upon the quality and consistency of data collected during death scene investigations and autopsies to better inform prevention and intervention efforts related to stillbirths, SUID, and SUDC. This collaboration with the states to enhance current methods of data collection across existing surveillance systems will enable doctors and researchers to better track and prevent these tragic losses. In addition, the legislation requires the Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to disseminate information related to stillbirths, SUID, and SUDC to educate the public, health care providers, and other stakeholders involved in investigating the deaths of infants and young children so that everyone is on the same page.
This bipartisan, bicameral legislation is supported by more than 25 local, state, and national organizations, including the Children’s Hospital Association, the International Association of Coroners and Medical Examiners, the National Association of Police Organizations, Inc., the Ohio Hospital Association, and Ohio Public Health Association.
Brown released a county-by-county map detailing infant mortality rates in Ohio, which ranks worst in the nation for African American infant mortality and 48th in the nation across all births. In 2012, 1,047 Ohio babies died before their first birthday. Each year, there are more than 25,000 stillbirths in the United States. Many of these deaths are the result of birth defects, umbilical cord problems, chronic conditions of the mother, or infections. However, there is no known cause for as many as half of all stillbirths, leaving thousands of parents without any explanation for these deaths. In addition, there are more than 4,600 sudden unexpected infant deaths each year and another 200 children between the ages of one and four who die without any clear cause for their death.
  
###
			
				
					Press Contact
					Meghan Dubyak/Lauren Kulik
(202) 224-3978",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.brown.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/president-signs-into-law-new-bipartisan-bill-authored-by-brown-to-streamline-regulations-for-insurers_-like-columbus-nationwide-insurance,President Signs into Law New Bipartisan Bill Authored by Brown to Streamline Regulations for Insurers - Like Columbus' Nationwide Insurance,2014-12-18,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,OH,Sherrod Brown,B000944,www.brown.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Bill Cleared House by Unanimous Consent in December and Passed Senate in June
				
			
			Thursday, December 18, 2014
            
	
			
			WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, President Obama signed into law a new bipartisan bill authored by U.S. Sens. Susan Collins (R-ME), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), and Mike Johanns (R-NE). The law clarifies a provision in the 2010 Dodd-Frank law that streamlines regulations for insurers. The bill, which passed the Senate in June and the House in December, provides the Federal Reserve the authority to differentiate between banks and insurance companies when setting capital standards.
“This law illustrates what can be done when Congress works together,” Brown said. “This commonsense fix ensures that traditional life, property, and casualty insurance are not regulated in a way that makes sense for banks but not insurers. I applaud the President for signing this bill into law, and my colleagues Senators Collins and Johanns for their leadership.”
Specifically, the Insurance Capital Standards Clarification Act of 2014 would:
 
Add language to Section 171 of Dodd-Frank to clarify that, in establishing minimum capital requirements for holding companies on a consolidated basis, the Federal Reserve is not required to include insurers to the extent they are engaged in activities regulated as insurance at the state level;
Provide a mechanism for the Federal Reserve, acting in consultation with the appropriate state insurance authority, to provide similar treatment for foreign insurance entities within a U.S. holding company where that entity does not itself do business in the United States; and
Limit the ability of the Federal Reserve to require insurers which file holding company financial statements using Statutory Accounting Principles to instead prepare their financial statements using Generally Accepting Accounting Principles. 
 
###
			
				
					Press Contact
					Meghan Dubyak/Ben Famous
(202) 224-3978",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.brown.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/sens-brown-and-portman-announce-senate-passage-of-resolution-to-honor-ohioan-olympian-and-civil-rights-icon-jesse-owens,"Sens. Brown and Portman Announce Senate Passage of Resolution to Honor Ohioan, Olympian, and Civil Rights Icon Jesse Owens",2014-12-18,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,OH,Sherrod Brown,B000944,www.brown.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Brown’s and Portman’s Senate Resolution Honors Jesse Owens for Contributions to Athletics and Civil Rights, Humanitarian Efforts 
				
			
			Thursday, December 18, 2014
            
	
			
			WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Sens. Sherrod Brown (D-OH) and Rob Portman (R-OH) announced the passage of a Senate Resolution to honor Ohioan Jesse Owens. The resolution, introduced by Brown and co-sponsored by Portman, recognizes Owens – one of the greatest athletes and Olympians in world history, and a civil rights icon who singlehandedly discredited false theories of racial superiority at the 1936 Berlin Games.
“The legacy of Ohioan Jesse Owens will stand the test of time,” Brown said. “As an athlete, he won world records and Olympic gold medals while dominating his sport as few ever have or ever will. He became a global icon when – at the 1936 Berlin Games – he discredited the theory that the Aryan race was superior to others. And he concluded his life as an ambassador to the United States and an ambassador to the poor. But to achieve each, Mr. Owens had to endure hatred and bigotry from outside agitators and even the school and country he competed for and represented. For these efforts, he made Ohio, the United States, and the world a better place.”
“I am pleased that the United States Senate has chosen to honor the life and legacy of Jesse Owens. This Ohioan inspired a nation, stood up to tyranny, and helped advance the cause of racial equality through not only his athletic prowess, but the content of his character,” Portman said. “In the 1936 Olympics, his four gold medals exposed the lie at the heart of Nazism and made him an American hero.”
At the age of nine, Owens moved from Alabama to Cleveland, Ohio where he excelled as a track and field star – breaking two junior high school world records, and setting two and tying another high school world record. While a student and athlete at The Ohio State University, Owens could not live on campus due to a lack of housing for black students, and could not stay at the same hotels or eat at the same restaurants as his white teammates. But Owens endured and, at the 1935 Big Ten Conference Track and Field Championships, he set three world records and tied another—in a 45 minute span and with an injured back. Owens’ most enduring legacy, however, was embarrassing the Nazi regime that hosted the 1936 Berlin Olympics by winning four gold medals, discrediting the false theory that racial disparity determined athletic achievement. Despite these accomplishments, Owens was neither recognized by Presidents Franklin D. Roosevelt or Harry S. Truman. He was, however, named Ambassador of Sport by President Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1955, during which he advocated for social and economic justice.    
Brown’s and Portman’s resolution can be read in its entirety HERE:

###
			
				
					Press Contact
					Meghan Dubyak/Lauren Kulik (Brown) 202-224-3978
Caitlin Conant/Michael Haidet (Portman) 202-224-5190",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://kaptur.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kaptur-announces-doe-grants-two-northeast-ohio-organizations,Kaptur Announces DOE Grants for Two Northeast Ohio Organizations,2014-12-18,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,OH,Marcy Kaptur,K000009,kaptur.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. (Dec. 18, 2014)  Congresswoman Kaptur announced that the U.S. Department of Energy today selected two Northeast Ohio organizations to promote the development of energy from hydrogen and fuel cells. Congresswoman Kaptur, ranking member on the Energy and Water Subcommittee of House Appropriations, said the Cleveland-based Westside Industrial Retention & Expansion Network (WIRE-net) has been awarded $695,000 and Ohio Fuel Cell Coalition, headquartered at Lorain County Community College (LCCC), $450,000 through the federal Clean Energy Manufacturing Initiative. The only other project that the Energy Department announced was the Virginia Clean Cities Initiative at James Madison University in Harrisonburg, Va. WIRE-net and the Fuel Cell Coalition are pushing the edge of the envelope on manufacturing competitiveness for hydrogen and fuel cells, said Congresswoman Kaptur. The bottom line is competitiveness in a tough global marketplace, said Kaptur. The strategy behind the Clean Energy Manufacturing Initiative is to leverage our manufacturing know-how with supply chain innovations. This is how Make in America will help our nation achieve energy independence. With its federal award, WIRE-net will complete a detailed manufacturing analysis of fuel cell systems, both automotive and stationary, along with high-pressure hydrogen storage systems and fuel cell subsystems and components. The analysis will span systems and components manufactured in the U.S., Europe and Asia to identify best current manufacturing processes, key factors that determine competitiveness, and potential ways to cut costs. WIRE-net is a manufacturing consortium serving businesses in Cuyahoga, Lorain, Lake, Medina, Geauga, Portage and Summit counties. The Ohio Fuel Cell Coalition, based at LCCC, will develop a robust supply chain model for fuel cell and hydrogen storage systems that will accelerate mass production while also reducing cost and improving performance and durability. The Coalition will establish an integrated network of four Regional Technical Exchange Centers to increase communication between original equipment manufacturers and component suppliers. It will also establish a nationwide database, accessible on the web, that will contain input from manufacturers and suppliers as well as a supplier contact list. The Coalition consists of industry, academic and government leaders with the goal of positioning Northeast Ohio as a global leader in fuel cell technology. Congresswoman Kaptur said the Department of Energy under Secretary Ernest Moniz is focused on creating a dynamic supply chain that will allow technologies to grow. The two Ohio projects, she said, will support activities to develop and expand the domestic supply chain of components and systems to manufacture and scale up hydrogen and fuel cell systems in the United States.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://kaptur.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kaptur-welcomes-additional-glri-funding-combat-harmful-algal-blooms,Kaptur Welcomes Additional GLRI Funding to Combat Harmful Algal Blooms,2014-12-18,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,OH,Marcy Kaptur,K000009,kaptur.house.gov,,,legacy,"TOLEDO (Dec. 18, 2014)  Congresswoman Kaptur, ranking member on the House Appropriations Energy and Water Subcommittee, welcomed the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency decision to commit an additional $3.1 million in federal funding to combat harmful algal blooms in Lake Erie.

	

	The additional funding comes on top of $8.6 million that was made available to state agencies in Ohio, Michigan and Indiana last October.

	

	The conditions that caused the Toledo water crisis last August have not changed materially, Kaptur said. The algae season is over, but the threat remains, so we have to be vigilant about protecting our community and saving Lake Erie.

	

	U.S. Rep. John Dingell (D-Michigan) called the algal blooms in Lake Erie an environmental crisis that deserves our attention  I'm happy to see this additional funding made available.

	

	The USEPA said it will direct $3.1 million from the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI) to three other federal agencies and the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development to expand efforts to reduce phosphorus runoff into Lake Erie. The EPA said it was making the funding available now so that priority projects can be implemented prior to the 2015 algae season.

	

	The new grantees include:
 
		National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration ($1 million) and the U.S. Geological Survey ($900,000) to improve harmful algal bloom forecasting and water quality testing.
	
		The Natural Resources and Conservation Service, an arm of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, approximately $1 million to encourage farmers in the Western Lake Erie Basin to adopt conservation practices; and
	
		The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (approximately $197,000) to improve nutrient management on Michigan farms.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://wenstrup.house.gov/updates/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398521,Local Congressmen Highlight LNG Connection to Region,2014-12-18,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,OH,Brad Wenstrup,W000815,wenstrup.house.gov,,,legacy,"An announced $1 billion service agreement with GE for the nation's first Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) export facility in over 40 years, permitted to deliver natural gas to non-free trade agreement nations, is being touted by southwest Ohio's congressional delegation as further evidence of the positive local impacts resulting from the nation's energy revolution. 
General Electric (GE) Oil & Gas and Cheniere Energy announced a 20-plus year, $1 billion services and maintenance agreement for the Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) non-FTA export facility. GE will supply parts and provide maintenance, including Cincinnati-based technical support, for the Sabine Pass facility located in Louisiana. Previous investments at the Louisiana facility include GE gas turbines manufactured in Ohio. The Cheniere facility is one of the largest customers of turbines manufactured from the Cincinnati area this year. 
The local congressional delegation, including Congressmen John Boehner (OH-08), Brad Wenstrup (OH-02), Steve Chabot (OH-01) and Mike Turner (OH-10), point to LNG export legislation that passed the House of Representatives this summer as the next step towards American energy leadership. The Domestic Prosperity and Global Freedom Act would expedite the federal permitting process for LNG export facilities, boosting the domestic economy and providing more secure energy options for U.S. allies abroad.
Congressman John Boehner (R  West Chester): ""This isn't just great news for Southwest Ohio and the hardworking folks at GE; it's great news for the entire country. Republicans will continue to push a true all-of-the-above energy strategy that creates jobs here at home and encourages investment in America's vast natural resources.""
Congressman Brad Wenstrup (R  Cincinnati): This latest development builds on Cincinnati's role in our nation's energy revolution. Energy development means new, good-paying jobs across the board, from drilling to manufacturing to transportation. Unfortunately, the federal government is stalling our energy development, denying hardworking Americans the work they're ready to do. Accelerated energy development, including more LNG export facilities, directly expands our economic opportunities and workforce right here in Ohio.
Congressman Steve Chabot (R - Cincinnati): This announcement is great news for the local economy, and it underscores another tangible benefit of a sound national energy policy that promotes domestic energy production. Not only do consumers enjoy lower energy prices, but increased domestic production spurs economic growth and job creation across the country, and right here in Cincinnati.
Congressman Mike Turner (R - Dayton): This agreement recognizes the innovative work taking place at GE and is a true testament to the quality of their workforce.

###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.portman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=ad10e282-772d-4731-9ae3-d690202c615f,Portman Applauds Signing of Ukraine Freedom Support Act,2014-12-18,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,OH,Rob Portman,P000449,www.portman.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Rob Portman (R-Ohio) today applauded President Obama’s signing of the Ukraine Freedom Support Act into law, authorizing lethal U.S. military assistance to Ukraine. Portman was an early cosponsor of the legislation, introduced by Foreign Relations Committee Chairman Robert Menendez (D-N.J.) and Ranking Member Bob Corker (R-TN), which authorizes the President to provide the Ukrainian military with both lethal and non-lethal defensive military assistance. It also authorizes enhanced sanctions against the Russian energy and defense sectors and expands U.S. efforts to counter Russian propaganda in countries of the former Soviet Union. The Ukraine Freedom Support Act passed both the House and the Senate last week.  
“While I applaud the President for signing this bill into law, I urge him to utilize the tools it gives him to support Ukraine and deter Russian aggression,” Portman said. “In particular, I look forward to hearing from the President how he intends to provide the additional lethal and non-lethal defensive military assistance the law authorizes.”
Military assistance authorized in the bill includes, but is not limited to, anti-tank and anti-armor weapons; crew weapons and ammunition; counter-artillery radars; fire control and guidance equipment; surveillance drones; and secure command and communications equipment. The President is also required to provide a report to Congress detailing the military assistance to be provided.
Portman has repeatedly called for the United States to provide defensive lethal assistance to Ukraine. Recently, Portman spoke on the Senate floor about the importance of U.S. support for Ukraine and the need to increase U.S. military assistance, including the specific weapons systems authorized in the legislation. A link to the video and excerpts can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.portman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=cb5d5f73-0786-4ee7-ae47-e9a79ee4b050,"Portman and Brown Announce Senate Passage of Resolution to Honor Ohioan, Olympian, and Civil Rights Icon Jesse Owens",2014-12-18,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,OH,Rob Portman,P000449,www.portman.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senators Rob Portman (R-Ohio) and Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio) announced the passage of a Senate Resolution to honor Ohioan Jesse Owens. The resolution recognizes Owens – one of the greatest athletes and Olympians in world history, and a civil rights icon who singlehandedly discredited false theories of racial superiority at the 1936 Berlin Games.
“I am pleased that the United States Senate has chosen to honor the life and legacy of Jesse Owens. This Ohioan inspired a nation, stood up to tyranny, and helped advance the cause of racial equality through not only his athletic prowess, but the content of his character,” Portman said. “In the 1936 Olympics, his four gold medals exposed the lie at the heart of Nazism and made him an American hero.”
“The legacy of Ohioan Jesse Owens will stand the test of time,” Brown said. “As an athlete, he won world records and Olympic gold medals while dominating his sport as few ever have or ever will. He became a global icon when – at the 1936 Berlin Games – he discredited the theory that the Aryan race was superior to others. And he concluded his life as an ambassador to the United States and an ambassador to the poor. But to achieve each, Mr. Owens had to endure hatred and bigotry from outside agitators and even the school and country he competed for and represented. For these efforts, he made Ohio, the United States, and the world a better place.”
At the age of nine, Owens moved from Alabama to Cleveland, Ohio where he excelled as a track and field star – breaking two junior high school world records, and setting two and tying another high school world record. While a student and athlete at The Ohio State University, Owens could not live on campus due to a lack of housing for black students, and could not stay at the same hotels or eat at the same restaurants as his white teammates. But Owens endured and, at the 1935 Big Ten Conference Track and Field Championships, he set three world records and tied another—in a 45 minute span and with an injured back. Owens’ most enduring legacy, however, was embarrassing the Nazi regime that hosted the 1936 Berlin Olympics by winning four gold medals, discrediting the false theory that racial disparity determined athletic achievement. Despite these accomplishments, Owens was neither recognized by Presidents Franklin D. Roosevelt or Harry S. Truman. He was, however, named Ambassador of Sport by President Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1955, during which he advocated for social and economic justice.   
Portman and Brown’s resolution can be read in its entirety here.
 
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://billjohnson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398351,Ohio GOP Delegation Releases Obamacare Horror Stories From Ohio,2014-12-17,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,OH,Bill Johnson,J000292,billjohnson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Speaker John Boehner  (OH-08) and Representatives Bill Johnson( R-Marietta), Steve Chabot (OH-01), Brad Wenstrup (OH-02), Jim Jordan (OH-04), Bob Latta (OH-05), Bob Gibbs (OH-07), Mike Turner (OH-10), Pat Tiberi (OH-12), Dave Joyce (OH-14), Steve Stivers (OH-15), and Jim Renacci (OH-16) today released the following statement reacting to their constituents’ experiences with open enrollment and the Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) downgrade of projected enrollees.  The delegation is encouraging constituents to continue the conversation by using the “hashtags” #ObamaCare #StoriesFromOhio on social media platforms, such as Twitter and Facebook.
“All across Ohio, the harmful effects of the president’s health care law continue to be widespread. Premiums and deductibles are rising, plans are being cancelled, people are losing access to their doctors, and small businesses have been forced to reduce employee hours in order to comply with the law’s mandates – turning full-time work into part-time work for too many.  
“The president’s Department of Health and Human Services recently reduced its estimate for projected enrollees, acknowledging the same lack of confidence Ohioans have expressed in the product it’s selling.
“We've heard from a great many of our constituents who have shared their stories, and that is why we will continue to fight to repeal and replace this broken system with real health care solutions that will lead to lower costs and more choices.”
Following are testimonials from Ohioans throughout the state:
  ""We have a ten-year-old daughter with cerebral palsy and a seizure disorder. We are already feeling the effects of Obamacare, with our current insurance company limiting therapy visits…and informing us that her current drugs may not be covered starting in January. I believe health care reform is needed. However, government-controlled healthcare is not the answer. Health care needs to be patient-and-doctor centered, with competition allowed across state lines for insurance companies.”
–Carol, Mason, OH
 
“Our premiums are jumping by 18 percent for 2015 and because of Obamacare; we will lose our plan in 2016. We are a healthy family of three, and have had no significant claims. I worry that next year, my family and I will be facing even higher deductibles, out of pocket costs, and premiums for a plan that doesn’t meet our needs.”
–Mike, Cincinnati, OH 
   
“My company had insurance that our employees liked, but costs rose rapidly when Washington started discussing the Affordable Care Act.  After Obamacare was passed I hoped that the prices would stabilize, but unfortunately we are still facing huge increases this year.  We now have insurance through a new company that got its start with Obamacare but we are very unhappy.  Our new plan has altered our prescription coverage so that some employees must pay hundreds of dollars out-of-pocket for prescriptions that were previously covered with reasonable co-pays.  Everyone should be able to sit down with their own doctor and decide what treatment is best.”
– Dan, Business owner in Ohio’s 4th District
   
""I am very disappointed with the Affordable Care Act. I just had to change my insurance policy through work because my premium would have gone up by $1300/year. I liked my policy. I wanted to keep my policy. I was told that I could keep it if I liked it. But it was not supposed to go up in cost. The ACA was supposed to save us $2500 not increase costs by $1300.”
- Resident of Ohio’s 5th District, Perrysburg, OH
 
“Our medical insurance premium costs went from $235 per month to $520 per month…President Obama promised that people would not have to choose between quality medical care and the basic essentials of life… I think that this system and the president have greatly failed me and many Americans in what was promised. I go to bed at night wondering how I am going to pay the increase in the medical insurance premiums as well as the increases in the out of pocket medical expenses we now face.”
– Alice, Dennison, OH
 
""Since I was a sophomore I had been working two jobs at Miami University to help pay for my education. When I received a letter over the summer saying that I would no longer be able to work more than thirty hours a week because of a new ObamaCare requirement, I was forced to give up one of my jobs. This is happening to students all over the country due to the reckless requirements written into the President's health care law. At a time when education is so expensive in the United States, these work hour requirements are hurting hardworking students.""
-Carolyn Turner, Daughter of Congressman Mike Turner, Dayton, OH
 
“My insurance has increased over $100 a month. My daughter is not covered because I cannot afford it, plus Medicaid has not gotten back to me about her (she has a disability). My deductible is $2500, which I have to pay before anything is covered! I cannot even afford to go to doctor and my employer said it is because of ObamaCare. There are no extras, just basic coverage. I hope nothing major happens to me and my family!”
– Sherrie, Hartville, OH
 
""I found out today our premium is going up again this year another 35 percent. We also have a $7,000 dollar deductible... It really angers me. We pay our taxes, we pay our bills. We try to do the right thing … As things stand right now, with increasing cost of living, [stagnant] wages, and increasing health care costs, I don't know how we are going to remain financially solvent and also have any kind of quality of life. For a health care law that was intended to help people, it sure seems that the ones who are being hurt are those who have worked hard to make a living for themselves.”
-Jamey, Piqua, OH
   
""My premiums rose 25 percent this year and will rise 25 percent again next year. It’s not just my premiums that are increasing; my out-pocket-expenses went from copays to a 20 percent cost-share, as well. Obamacare certainly hasn’t made healthcare more affordable for me.”
– Nancy, Central Ohio
 
“I had the same health insurance plan since 2007, one that was affordable and the right plan for me. Six months ago, I got a letter from my insurance company telling me that because of ObamaCare, they were no longer offering the plan I had been on for seven years. After struggling to find a new plan, my new monthly premium is now doubled from $425 to over $900.""
– Jeff, Hudson, OH
   
“My name is Mildred and I retired as a teacher's aide. I now live in my daughter's home. As a retiree from the Ohio School system, I used to have a good health care plan which has covered a heart surgery in addition to other health needs.  When ObamaCare started I received a notice that my premium would increase from $66.00 to $299.00 per month.  That new amount was way more than my meager pension.  I had no choice but to cancel my policy.  My doctors tell me that I will eventually need another heart operation.  I don't know what I will do.”
– Mildred, Columbus, OH
   
“I own a small business and employ close to 1,000 people, of which 700 should be eligible for insurance. If 75 percent of those eligible participate, I will be put out of business within 3-6 months. Though I am planning to hire and expand, the 30-hour definition of full-time employment within Obamacare threatens our very existence. I urge Congress to apply the traditional 40-hour definition of full-time employment to the health care law in order to provide me with the certainty I need to grow my company and create jobs.”
– Jim, North Canton, OH
 ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://jordan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=397880,Ohio GOP delegation releases ObamaCare horror stories from Ohio,2014-12-17,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,OH,Jim Jordan,J000289,jordan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Boehner VIDEO: A Message on ObamaCare from a Mom in Piqua
Speaker John Boehner  (OH-08) and Representatives Steve Chabot (OH-01), Brad Wenstrup (OH-02), Jim Jordan (OH-04), Bob Latta (OH-05), Bill Johnson (OH-06), Bob Gibbs (OH-07), Mike Turner (OH-10), Pat Tiberi (OH-12), Dave Joyce (OH-14), Steve Stivers (OH-15), and Jim Renacci (OH-16) today released the following statement reacting to their constituents’ experiences with open enrollment and the Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) downgrade of projected enrollees.  The delegation is encouraging constituents to continue the conversation by using the “hashtags” #ObamaCare #StoriesFromOhio on social media platforms, such as Twitter and Facebook.
“All across Ohio, the harmful effects of the president’s health care law continue to be widespread. Premiums and deductibles are rising, plans are being cancelled, people are losing access to their doctors, and small businesses have been forced to reduce employee hours in order to comply with the law’s mandates – turning full-time work into part-time work for too many. 
“The president’s Department of Health and Human Services recently reduced its estimate for projected enrollees, acknowledging the same lack of confidence Ohioans have expressed in the product it’s selling.
“We've heard from a great many of our constituents who have shared their stories, and that is why we will continue to fight to repeal and replace this broken system with real health care solutions that will lead to lower costs and more choices.”
Following are testimonials from Ohioans throughout the state:
“We have a ten-year-old daughter with cerebral palsy and a seizure disorder. We are already feeling the effects of Obamacare, with our current insurance company limiting therapy visits…and informing us that her current drugs may not be covered starting in January. I believe health care reform is needed. However, government-controlled healthcare is not the answer. Health care needs to be patient-and-doctor centered, with competition allowed across state lines for insurance companies.”
– Carol, Mason, OH
“Our premiums are jumping by 18 percent for 2015 and because of Obamacare; we will lose our plan in 2016. We are a healthy family of three, and have had no significant claims. I worry that next year, my family and I will be facing even higher deductibles, out of pocket costs, and premiums for a plan that doesn’t meet our needs.” 
– Mike, Cincinnati, OH
“My company had insurance that our employees liked, but costs rose rapidly when Washington started discussing the Affordable Care Act.  After Obamacare was passed I hoped that the prices would stabilize, but unfortunately we are still facing huge increases this year.  We now have insurance through a new company that got its start with Obamacare but we are very unhappy.  Our new plan has altered our prescription coverage so that some employees must pay hundreds of dollars out-of-pocket for prescriptions that were previously covered with reasonable co-pays.  Everyone should be able to sit down with their own doctor and decide what treatment is best.” 
– Dan, Business owner in Ohio’s 4th District
""I am very disappointed with the Affordable Care Act. I just had to change my insurance policy through work because my premium would have gone up by $1300/year. I liked my policy. I wanted to keep my policy. I was told that I could keep it if I liked it. But it was not supposed to go up in cost. The ACA was supposed to save us $2500 not increase costs by $1300.” 
– Resident of Ohio’s 5th District, Perrysburg, OH
“Our medical insurance premium costs went from $235 per month to $520 per month…President Obama promised that people would not have to choose between quality medical care and the basic essentials of life… I think that this system and the president have greatly failed me and many Americans in what was promised. I go to bed at night wondering how I am going to pay the increase in the medical insurance premiums as well as the increases in the out of pocket medical expenses we now face.”
– Alice, Dennison, OH
""Since I was a sophomore I had been working two jobs at Miami University to help pay for my education. When I received a letter over the summer saying that I would no longer be able to work more than thirty hours a week because of a new ObamaCare requirement, I was forced to give up one of my jobs. This is happening to students all over the country due to the reckless requirements written into the President's health care law. At a time when education is so expensive in the United States, these work hour requirements are hurting hardworking students.""
– Carolyn Turner, Daughter of Congressman Mike Turner, Dayton, OH
“My insurance has increased over $100 a month. My daughter is not covered because I cannot afford it, plus Medicaid has not gotten back to me about her (she has a disability). My deductible is $2500, which I have to pay before anything is covered! I cannot even afford to go to doctor and my employer said it is because of ObamaCare. There are no extras, just basic coverage. I hope nothing major happens to me and my family!” 
– Sherrie, Hartville, OH
""I found out today our premium is going up again this year another 35 percent. We also have a $7,000 dollar deductible... It really angers me. We pay our taxes, we pay our bills. We try to do the right thing … As things stand right now, with increasing cost of living, [stagnant] wages, and increasing health care costs, I don't know how we are going to remain financially solvent and also have any kind of quality of life. For a health care law that was intended to help people, it sure seems that the ones who are being hurt are those who have worked hard to make a living for themselves.”
-Jamey, Piqua, OH
""My premiums rose 25 percent this year and will rise 25 percent again next year. It’s not just my premiums that are increasing; my out-pocket-expenses went from copays to a 20 percent cost-share, as well. Obamacare certainly hasn’t made healthcare more affordable for me.” 
– Nancy, Central Ohio
“I had the same health insurance plan since 2007, one that was affordable and the right plan for me. Six months ago, I got a letter from my insurance company telling me that because of ObamaCare, they were no longer offering the plan I had been on for seven years. After struggling to find a new plan, my new monthly premium is now doubled from $425 to over $900."" 
– Jeff, Hudson, OH
“My name is Mildred and I retired as a teacher's aide. I now live in my daughter's home. As a retiree from the Ohio School system, I used to have a good health care plan which has covered a heart surgery in addition to other health needs.  When ObamaCare started I received a notice that my premium would increase from $66.00 to $299.00 per month.  That new amount was way more than my meager pension.  I had no choice but to cancel my policy.  My doctors tell me that I will eventually need another heart operation.  I don't know what I will do.” 
– Mildred, Columbus, OH
“I own a small business and employ close to 1,000 people, of which 700 should be eligible for insurance. If 75 percent of those eligible participate, I will be put out of business within 3-6 months. Though I am planning to hire and expand, the 30-hour definition of full-time employment within Obamacare threatens our very existence. I urge Congress to apply the traditional 40-hour definition of full-time employment to the health care law in order to provide me with the certainty I need to grow my company and create jobs.” 
– Jim, North Canton, OH
-30-",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://latta.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=397905,Ohio GOP Delegation Releases ObamaCare Horror Stories from Ohio,2014-12-17,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,OH,Robert Latta,L000566,latta.house.gov,,,legacy,"Speaker John Boehner  (OH-08) and Representatives Steve Chabot (OH-01), Brad Wenstrup (OH-02), Jim Jordan (OH-04), Bob Latta (OH-05), Bill Johnson (OH-06), Bob Gibbs (OH-07), Mike Turner (OH-10), Pat Tiberi (OH-12), Dave Joyce (OH-14), Steve Stivers (OH-15), and Jim Renacci (OH-16) today released the following statement reacting to their constituents’ experiences with open enrollment and the Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) downgrade of projected enrollees.  The delegation is encouraging constituents to continue the conversation by using the “hashtags” #ObamaCare #StoriesFromOhio on social media platforms, such as Twitter and Facebook.
“All across Ohio, the harmful effects of the president’s health care law continue to be widespread. Premiums and deductibles are rising, plans are being cancelled, people are losing access to their doctors, and small businesses have been forced to reduce employee hours in order to comply with the law’s mandates – turning full-time work into part-time work for too many.  
“The president’s Department of Health and Human Services recently reduced its estimate for projected enrollees, acknowledging the same lack of confidence Ohioans have expressed in the product it’s selling.
“We've heard from a great many of our constituents who have shared their stories, and that is why we will continue to fight to repeal and replace this broken system with real health care solutions that will lead to lower costs and more choices.”
Following are testimonials from Ohioans throughout the state:
 ""We have a ten-year-old daughter with cerebral palsy and a seizure disorder. We are already feeling the effects of Obamacare, with our current insurance company limiting therapy visits…and informing us that her current drugs may not be covered starting in January. I believe health care reform is needed. However, government-controlled health care is not the answer. Health care needs to be patient-and-doctor centered, with competition allowed across state lines for insurance companies.”
–Carol, Mason, OH
“Our premiums are jumping by 18 percent for 2015 and because of Obamacare; we will lose our plan in 2016. We are a healthy family of three, and have had no significant claims. I worry that next year, my family and I will be facing even higher deductibles, out of pocket costs, and premiums for a plan that doesn’t meet our needs.”
–Mike, Cincinnati, OH
“My company had insurance that our employees liked, but costs rose rapidly when Washington started discussing the Affordable Care Act.  After Obamacare was passed I hoped that the prices would stabilize, but unfortunately we are still facing huge increases this year.  We now have insurance through a new company that got its start with Obamacare but we are very unhappy.  Our new plan has altered our prescription coverage so that some employees must pay hundreds of dollars out-of-pocket for prescriptions that were previously covered with reasonable co-pays.  Everyone should be able to sit down with their own doctor and decide what treatment is best.”
– Dan, Business owner in Ohio’s 4th District
""I am very disappointed with the Affordable Care Act. I just had to change my insurance policy through work because my premium would have gone up by $1300/year. I liked my policy. I wanted to keep my policy. I was told that I could keep it if I liked it. But it was not supposed to go up in cost. The ACA was supposed to save us $2500 not increase costs by $1300.”
- Resident of Ohio’s 5th District, Perrysburg, OH 
“Our medical insurance premium costs went from $235 per month to $520 per month…President Obama promised that people would not have to choose between quality medical care and the basic essentials of life… I think that this system and the president have greatly failed me and many Americans in what was promised. I go to bed at night wondering how I am going to pay the increase in the medical insurance premiums as well as the increases in the out of pocket medical expenses we now face.”
– Alice, Dennison, OH
""Since I was a sophomore I had been working two jobs at Miami University to help pay for my education. When I received a letter over the summer saying that I would no longer be able to work more than thirty hours a week because of a new ObamaCare requirement, I was forced to give up one of my jobs. This is happening to students all over the country due to the reckless requirements written into the President's health care law. At a time when education is so expensive in the United States, these work hour requirements are hurting hardworking students.""
-Carolyn Turner, Daughter of Congressman Mike Turner, Dayton, OH
“My insurance has increased over $100 a month. My daughter is not covered because I cannot afford it, plus Medicaid has not gotten back to me about her (she has a disability). My deductible is $2500, which I have to pay before anything is covered! I cannot even afford to go to doctor and my employer said it is because of ObamaCare. There are no extras, just basic coverage. I hope nothing major happens to me and my family!”
– Sherrie, Hartville, OH
""I found out today our premium is going up again this year another 35 percent. We also have a $7,000 dollar deductible... It really angers me. We pay our taxes, we pay our bills. We try to do the right thing … As things stand right now, with increasing cost of living, [stagnant] wages, and increasing health care costs, I don't know how we are going to remain financially solvent and also have any kind of quality of life. For a health care law that was intended to help people, it sure seems that the ones who are being hurt are those who have worked hard to make a living for themselves.”
-Jamey, Piqua, OH
""My premiums rose 25 percent this year and will rise 25 percent again next year. It’s not just my premiums that are increasing; my out-pocket-expenses went from copays to a 20 percent cost-share, as well. Obamacare certainly hasn’t made healthcare more affordable for me.”
– Nancy, Central Ohio
“I had the same health insurance plan since 2007, one that was affordable and the right plan for me. Six months ago, I got a letter from my insurance company telling me that because of ObamaCare, they were no longer offering the plan I had been on for seven years. After struggling to find a new plan, my new monthly premium is now doubled from $425 to over $900.""
– Jeff, Hudson, OH
“My name is Mildred and I retired as a teacher's aide. I now live in my daughter's home. As a retiree from the Ohio School system, I used to have a good health care plan which has covered a heart surgery in addition to other health needs.  When ObamaCare started I received a notice that my premium would increase from $66.00 to $299.00 per month.  That new amount was way more than my meager pension.  I had no choice but to cancel my policy.  My doctors tell me that I will eventually need another heart operation.  I don't know what I will do.”
– Mildred, Columbus, OH
“I own a small business and employ close to 1,000 people, of which 700 should be eligible for insurance. If 75 percent of those eligible participate, I will be put out of business within 3-6 months. Though I am planning to hire and expand, the 30-hour definition of full-time employment within Obamacare threatens our very existence. I urge Congress to apply the traditional 40-hour definition of full-time employment to the health care law in order to provide me with the certainty I need to grow my company and create jobs.”
– Jim, North Canton, OH
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://renacci.house.gov/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=6110B3E7-D7D5-4D7D-B2C0-BD1BC490DE76,Ohio GOP Delegation Releases ObamaCare Horror Stories from Ohio,2014-12-17,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,OH,Jim Renacci,R000586,renacci.house.gov,,,legacy,"Speaker John Boehner (OH-08) and Representatives Steve Chabot (OH-01), Brad Wenstrup (OH-02), Jim Jordan (OH-04), Bob Latta (OH-05), Bill Johnson (OH-06), Bob Gibbs (OH-07), Mike Turner (OH-10), Pat Tiberi (OH-12), Dave Joyce (OH-14), Steve Stivers (OH-15), and Jim Renacci (OH-16) today released the following statement reacting to their constituents’ experiences with open enrollment and the Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) downgrade of projected enrollees. The delegation is encouraging constituents to continue the conversation by using the “hashtags” #ObamaCare #StoriesFromOhio on social media platforms, such as Twitter and Facebook.
“All across Ohio, the harmful effects of the president’s health care law continue to be widespread. Premiums and deductibles are rising, plans are being cancelled, people are losing access to their doctors, and small businesses have been forced to reduce employee hours in order to comply with the law’s mandates – turning full-time work into part-time work for too many.
“The president’s Department of Health and Human Services recently reduced its estimate for projected enrollees, acknowledging the same lack of confidence Ohioans have expressed in the product it’s selling.
“We've heard from a great many of our constituents who have shared their stories, and that is why we will continue to fight to repeal and replace this broken system with real health care solutions that will lead to lower costs and more choices.”
Following are testimonials from Ohioans throughout the state:
""We have a ten-year-old daughter with cerebral palsy and a seizure disorder. We are already feeling the effects of Obamacare, with our current insurance company limiting therapy visits…and informing us that her current drugs may not be covered starting in January. I believe health care reform is needed. However, government-controlled healthcare is not the answer. Health care needs to be patient-and-doctor centered, with competition allowed across state lines for insurance companies.”
–Carol, Mason, OH
“Our premiums are jumping by 18 percent for 2015 and because of Obamacare; we will lose our plan in 2016. We are a healthy family of three, and have had no significant claims. I worry that next year, my family and I will be facing even higher deductibles, out of pocket costs, and premiums for a plan that doesn’t meet our needs.”
–Mike, Cincinnati, OH
“My company had insurance that our employees liked, but costs rose rapidly when Washington started discussing the Affordable Care Act. After Obamacare was passed I hoped that the prices would stabilize, but unfortunately we are still facing huge increases this year. We now have insurance through a new company that got its start with Obamacare but we are very unhappy. Our new plan has altered our prescription coverage so that some employees must pay hundreds of dollars out-of-pocket for prescriptions that were previously covered with reasonable co-pays. Everyone should be able to sit down with their own doctor and decide what treatment is best.”
– Dan, Business owner in Ohio’s 4th District
""I am very disappointed with the Affordable Care Act. I just had to change my insurance policy through work because my premium would have gone up by $1300/year. I liked my policy. I wanted to keep my policy. I was told that I could keep it if I liked it. But it was not supposed to go up in cost. The ACA was supposed to save us $2500 not increase costs by $1300.”
- Resident of Ohio’s 5th District, Perrysburg, Ohio
“Our medical insurance premium costs went from $235 per month to $520 per month…President Obama promised that people would not have to choose between quality medical care and the basic essentials of life… I think that this system and the president have greatly failed me and many Americans in what was promised. I go to bed at night wondering how I am going to pay the increase in the medical insurance premiums as well as the increases in the out of pocket medical expenses we now face.”
– Alice, Dennison, OH
""Since I was a sophomore I had been working two jobs at Miami University to help pay for my education. When I received a letter over the summer saying that I would no longer be able to work more than thirty hours a week because of a new ObamaCare requirement, I was forced to give up one of my jobs. This is happening to students all over the country due to the reckless requirements written into the President's health care law. At a time when education is so expensive in the United States, these work hour requirements are hurting hardworking students.""
-Carolyn Turner, Daughter of Congressman Mike Turner, Dayton, OH
“My insurance has increased over $100 a month. My daughter is not covered because I cannot afford it, plus Medicaid has not gotten back to me about her (she has a disability). My deductible is $2500, which I have to pay before anything is covered! I cannot even afford to go to doctor and my employer said it is because of ObamaCare. There are no extras, just basic coverage. I hope nothing major happens to me and my family!”
– Sherrie, Hartville, OH
""I found out today our premium is going up again this year another 35 percent. We also have a $7,000 dollar deductible... It really angers me. We pay our taxes, we pay our bills. We try to do the right thing … As things stand right now, with increasing cost of living, [stagnant] wages, and increasing health care costs, I don't know how we are going to remain financially solvent and also have any kind of quality of life. For a health care law that was intended to help people, it sure seems that the ones who are being hurt are those who have worked hard to make a living for themselves.”
-Jamey, Piqua, OH
""My premiums rose 25 percent this year and will rise 25 percent again next year. It’s not just my premiums that are increasing; my out-pocket-expenses went from copays to a 20 percent cost-share, as well. Obamacare certainly hasn’t made healthcare more affordable for me.”
– Nancy, Central Ohio
“I had the same health insurance plan since 2007, one that was affordable and the right plan for me. Six months ago, I got a letter from my insurance company telling me that because of ObamaCare, they were no longer offering the plan I had been on for seven years. After struggling to find a new plan, my new monthly premium is now doubled from $425 to over $900.""
– Jeff, Hudson, OH
“My name is Mildred and I retired as a teacher's aide. I now live in my daughter's home. As a retiree from the Ohio School system, I used to have a good health care plan which has covered a heart surgery in addition to other health needs. When ObamaCare started I received a notice that my premium would increase from $66.00 to $299.00 per month. That new amount was way more than my meager pension. I had no choice but to cancel my policy. My doctors tell me that I will eventually need another heart operation. I don't know what I will do.”
– Mildred, Columbus, OH
“I own a small business and employ close to 1,000 people, of which 700 should be eligible for insurance. If 75 percent of those eligible participate, I will be put out of business within 3-6 months. Though I am planning to hire and expand, the 30-hour definition of full-time employment within Obamacare threatens our very existence. I urge Congress to apply the traditional 40-hour definition of full-time employment to the health care law in order to provide me with the certainty I need to grow my company and create jobs.”
– Jim, North Canton, Ohio",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://stivers.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398473,Ohio GOP Delegation Releases ObamaCare Horror Stories From Ohio,2014-12-17,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,OH,Steve Stivers,S001187,stivers.house.gov,,,legacy,"Ohio GOP Delegation Releases ObamaCare Horror Stories From Ohio
  
    
      
      
  
    
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        Washington,
        December 17, 2014
      
       
    
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
    
      
      
        WASHINGTON, DC - Speaker John Boehner  (OH-08) and Representatives Steve Chabot (OH-01), Brad Wenstrup (OH-02), Jim Jordan (OH-04), Bob Latta (OH-05), Bill Johnson (OH-06), Bob Gibbs (OH-07), Mike Turner (OH-10), Pat Tiberi (OH-12), Dave Joyce (OH-14), Steve Stivers (OH-15), and Jim Renacci (OH-16) today released the following statement reacting to their constituents’ experiences with open enrollment and the Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) downgrade of projected enrollees.  The delegation is encouraging constituents to continue the conversation by using the “hashtags” #ObamaCare #StoriesFromOhio on social media platforms, such as Twitter and Facebook.
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      WASHINGTON, DC - Speaker John Boehner  (OH-08) and Representatives Steve Chabot (OH-01), Brad Wenstrup (OH-02), Jim Jordan (OH-04), Bob Latta (OH-05), Bill Johnson (OH-06), Bob Gibbs (OH-07), Mike Turner (OH-10), Pat Tiberi (OH-12), Dave Joyce (OH-14), Steve Stivers (OH-15), and Jim Renacci (OH-16) today released the following statement reacting to their constituents’ experiences with open enrollment and the Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) downgrade of projected enrollees.  The delegation is encouraging constituents to continue the conversation by using the “hashtags” #ObamaCare #StoriesFromOhio on social media platforms, such as Twitter and Facebook.
 
“All across Ohio, the harmful effects of the president’s health care law continue to be widespread. Premiums and deductibles are rising, plans are being cancelled, people are losing access to their doctors, and small businesses have been forced to reduce employee hours in order to comply with the law’s mandates – turning full-time work into part-time work for too many.  
 
“The president’s Department of Health and Human Services recently reduced its estimate for projected enrollees, acknowledging the same lack of confidence Ohioans have expressed in the product it’s selling. 
 
“We've heard from a great many of our constituents who have shared their stories, and that is why we will continue to fight to repeal and replace this broken system with real health care solutions that will lead to lower costs and more choices.”
 
Following are testimonials from Ohioans throughout the state:“My name is Mildred and I retired as a teacher's aide. I now live in my daughter's home. As a retiree from the Ohio School system, I used to have a good health care plan which has covered a heart surgery in addition to other health needs.  When ObamaCare started I received a notice that my premium would increase from $66.00 to $299.00 per month.  That new amount was way more than my meager pension.  I had no choice but to cancel my policy.  My doctors tell me that I will eventually need another heart operation.  I don't know what I will do.” 
– Mildred, Columbus, OH
 
 ""We have a ten-year-old daughter with cerebral palsy and a seizure disorder. We are already feeling the effects of ObamaCare, with our current insurance company limiting therapy visits…and informing us that her current drugs may not be covered starting in January. I believe health care reform is needed. However, government-controlled healthcare is not the answer. Health care needs to be patient-and-doctor centered, with competition allowed across state lines for insurance companies.”
– Carol, Mason, OH
 
“Our premiums are jumping by 18 percent for 2015 and because of ObamaCare; we will lose our plan in 2016. We are a healthy family of three, and have had no significant claims. I worry that next year, my family and I will be facing even higher deductibles, out of pocket costs, and premiums for a plan that doesn’t meet our needs.” 
– Mike, Cincinnati, OH 
 
“My company had insurance that our employees liked, but costs rose rapidly when Washington started discussing the Affordable Care Act.  After ObamaCare was passed I hoped that the prices would stabilize, but unfortunately we are still facing huge increases this year.  We now have insurance through a new company that got its start with ObamaCare but we are very unhappy.  Our new plan has altered our prescription coverage so that some employees must pay hundreds of dollars out-of-pocket for prescriptions that were previously covered with reasonable co-pays.  Everyone should be able to sit down with their own doctor and decide what treatment is best.” 
– Dan, Business owner in Ohio’s 4th District
 
""I am very disappointed with the Affordable Care Act. I just had to change my insurance policy through work because my premium would have gone up by $1300/year. I liked my policy. I wanted to keep my policy. I was told that I could keep it if I liked it. But it was not supposed to go up in cost. The ACA was supposed to save us $2500 not increase costs by $1300.” 
- Resident of Ohio’s 5th District, Perrysburg, Ohio
 
“Our medical insurance premium costs went from $235 per month to $520 per month…President Obama promised that people would not have to choose between quality medical care and the basic essentials of life… I think that this system and the president have greatly failed me and many Americans in what was promised. I go to bed at night wondering how I am going to pay the increase in the medical insurance premiums as well as the increases in the out of pocket medical expenses we now face.”
– Alice, Dennison, OH
 
""Since I was a sophomore I had been working two jobs at Miami University to help pay for my education. When I received a letter over the summer saying that I would no longer be able to work more than thirty hours a week because of a new ObamaCare requirement, I was forced to give up one of my jobs. This is happening to students all over the country due to the reckless requirements written into the President's health care law. At a time when education is so expensive in the United States, these work hour requirements are hurting hardworking students.""
- Carolyn Turner, Daughter of Congressman Mike Turner, Dayton, OH
 
“My insurance has increased over $100 a month. My daughter is not covered because I cannot afford it, plus Medicaid has not gotten back to me about her (she has a disability). My deductible is $2500, which I have to pay before anything is covered! I cannot even afford to go to doctor and my employer said it is because of ObamaCare. There are no extras, just basic coverage. I hope nothing major happens to me and my family!” 
–  ​Sherrie, Hartville, OH
 
""I found out today our premium is going up again this year another 35 percent. We also have a $7,000 dollar deductible... It really angers me. We pay our taxes, we pay our bills. We try to do the right thing … As things stand right now, with increasing cost of living, [stagnant] wages, and increasing health care costs, I don't know how we are going to remain financially solvent and also have any kind of quality of life. For a health care law that was intended to help people, it sure seems that the ones who are being hurt are those who have worked hard to make a living for themselves.”
- Jamey, Piqua, OH
 
""My premiums rose 25 percent this year and will rise 25 percent again next year. It’s not just my premiums that are increasing; my out-pocket-expenses went from copays to a 20 percent cost-share, as well. ObamaCare certainly hasn’t made healthcare more affordable for me.” 
– Nancy, Central Ohio
 
“I had the same health insurance plan since 2007, one that was affordable and the right plan for me. Six months ago, I got a letter from my insurance company telling me that because of ObamaCare, they were no longer offering the plan I had been on for seven years. After struggling to find a new plan, my new monthly premium is now doubled from $425 to over $900."" 
– Jeff, Hudson, OH
 
 “I own a small business and employ close to 1,000 people, of which 700 should be eligible for insurance. If 75 percent of those eligible participate, I will be put out of business within 3-6 months. Though I am planning to hire and expand, the 30-hour definition of full-time employment within ObamaCare threatens our very existence. I urge Congress to apply the traditional 40-hour definition of full-time employment to the health care law in order to provide me with the certainty I need to grow my company and create jobs.” 
– Jim, North Canton, Ohio###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://stivers.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398475,Stivers Statement on Cuba,2014-12-17,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,OH,Steve Stivers,S001187,stivers.house.gov,,,legacy,"Stivers Statement on Cuba 
   
    
       
      
  
    
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        December 17, 2014
      
       
    
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
    
      
      
      WASHINGTON DC - The below statement can be attributed to Congressman Steve Stivers (R-OH).""I am happy for Alan Gross and his family. However, I worry that today's actions empower rogue states to capture American citizens and mistreat them.  ""I believe the President's proposal for normalizing diplomatic and trade relationships with a country that has a horrible human rights record sends the wrong message to the world. ""Every parent knows that if you reward bad behavior, you get more bad behavior."" ###
    
  
  
  
    
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http://stivers.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398483,FDA Policy Aims to Smooth Generic Access to Samples of Branded Drugs Subject to REMS Use Restrictions,2014-12-17,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,OH,Steve Stivers,S001187,stivers.house.gov,,,legacy,"In a draft guidance published December 4, 2014, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has attempted to remove, at least in part, a legal hurdle that had created challenges for generic drug companies: Acquiring the samples of brand name products required to perform the bioequivalence studies that are the linchpin to the generic drug approval process, as well as other analytical comparisons required for submission and approval of an Abbreviated New Drug Application (ANDA).
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      In a draft guidance published December 4, 2014, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has attempted to remove, at least in part, a legal hurdle that had created challenges for generic drug companies: Acquiring the samples of brand name products required to perform the bioequivalence studies that are the linchpin to the generic drug approval process, as well as other analytical comparisons required for submission and approval of an Abbreviated New Drug Application (ANDA).Background on REMS Programs and Their Impact on Generic Access to Innovator Product Samples FDA long has recognized that some drugs that pose significant benefit/risk issues that might otherwise keep them from being approved could come to the market if additional measures beyond those provided in the product labeling were implemented relative to the drug posing the questionable benefit/risk ratio. Thus, with drugs such as Accutane® and Thalomid®, both of which can cause birth defects, the agency and the drugs' sponsors entered into arrangements where, as a condition of approval, the sponsors agreed to certain measures such as requiring women of childbearing years to agree to a pregnancy test before initiating treatment and to use birth control while taking the drugs. Initially, these arrangements were not formally authorized by the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA), but the sponsors agreed to the risk management provisions in order to secure approval. In 2007, Congress passed the Food and Drug Administration Amendments Act (the 2007 Amendments), which formally gave FDA the power to require innovative drug sponsors to initiate such programs – called Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategies (REMS) when the agency believed the risk/benefit ratio required such measures. While many common REMS measures, such as medication guides and communication plans, do not directly impede access to the drug, the 2007 Amendments also gave FDA the power to require, in appropriate circumstances, that the innovator implement certain Elements To Assure Safe Use (ETASU)—such as the pregnancy test and contraception requirements already in place for Accutane®—for drugs that posed, in the agency's view, great enough risks that other measures were inadequate to ensure that the products could be safely used. In conjunction with giving FDA the power to require an ETASU, the 2007 Amendments also amended the FFDCA to render as misbranded any drug that was in violation of a REMS program measure such as ETASU requirements. An unintended consequence of approving a new drug application (NDA) for a drug with an ETASU program has been that, in many cases, generic firms seeking to acquire the samples of the NDA product found themselves unable to acquire the products from the holder of the NDA due to the ETASU restrictions. When pushed by generic firms to make samples of drugs subject to an ETASU available, holders of the approval for the brand NDA – referred to in the generic drug approval process as the ""reference listed drug"" (RLD) – have cited a number of grounds for why they should not be required to provide the samples to the generics, especially falling back on the assertion that they cannot legally provide the product under the REMS misbranding provisions of the FFDCA. Innovators also claimed that state tort law/products liability considerations also would expose them to liability by providing the samples to generic companies. What the Draft Guidance Provides In the draft guidance issued December 4, FDA created a mechanism for generic firms to request that FDA send a letter to the RLD holder of a drug subject to an ETASU. Before the letter can be sent to the RLD NDA holder, a generic firm will have to submit its bioequivalence protocol—including informed consent documents and other ""informational materials""—reflecting the required ETASU elements to the agency for review. If FDA agrees that the protocol does contain the required ETASU measures, the generic firm will also have to provide FDA with a completed ""disclosure authorization form"" before FDA can issue the letter to the RLD holder. In the letter to the RLD holder, FDA would inform the firm that the agency would not regard the innovator's provision of the samples of the RLD to the generic as a ""violation of REMS."" Specifically, the letter would state:     The Agency has determined that the protocols, informed consent documents, and informational materials contain safety protections comparable to those in the applicable REMS ETASU.     FDA will not consider it a violation of REMS for the RLD sponsor to provide the designated potential ANDA applicant (or its agent) a sufficient quantity of drug product to allow it to perform the testing necessary to support its ANDA and otherwise meet the requirements for ANDA approval. The guidance does not say how quickly FDA will respond to ANDA applicant requests for letters to the RLD holder of ETASU-restricted drugs. However, as the agency has a commitment to trying to secure the approval of ""first generics"" of previously sole source brand name products, FDA is likely to move fairly quickly on any requests made under the draft guidance. Will the Draft Guidance Really Generate Access to Innovator Samples Subject to ETASU? While the draft guidance would appear to remove one crucial element of innovator resistance to providing samples of the RLD to generic firms where an ETASU is in place, we expect that RLD holders will continue to resist making these products available. Indeed, several issues are not addressed by the draft guidance. First, from an administrative law perspective, the draft guidance, even if it was in final form, would not have the force and effect of a law, as it is neither a regulation nor a statute. FDA makes clear that guidance documents are neither binding on FDA nor on industry. In addition, the guidance expresses, as a matter of policy, FDA's decision to, in effect, exercise its ""enforcement discretion"" to not hold an innovator company in violation of the law if it distributes a product in a manner that is not fully consistent with an ETASU in order to make samples available to a generic firm. We expect that some innovators may assert that they still would be technically in violation of the FFDCA by deviating from a REMS program and decline to make samples available under that rationale. In addition, the draft guidance does not compel an innovator to provide the generic with samples. To date, this issue, which includes a focus on the non-FDA legal issue of whether a person can decline to do business with another person, has been the subject of litigation in several federal district courts. However, none of those lawsuits has resulted in a decision with any precedential value. Finally, innovator companies contend that, even with FDA's blessing as reflected in the draft guidance, the innovators would expose themselves to liability under various state products liability and tort principles if they were to provide samples of a drug subject to an ETASU to a generic firm. While a generic firm could agree to indemnify and hold harmless an innovator under such circumstances, absent a court finding that the innovator must deal with the generic and provide samples, we would expect that innovators continue to decline to make samples available for as long as they can continue to assert a colorable argument from both a legal and policy perspective that they are not required to share their product with the generic industry. Congress may eventually have to weigh in on this issue. Indeed, in September 2014, H.R. 5657, the Fair Access for Safety and Timely (FAST) Generics Act, was introduced by Reps. Steve Stivers (R-Ohio) and Peter Welch (D-Vt.). If enacted, the FAST Generics Act, among other things, actually would render misbranded any drug subject to a REMS if the NDA holder failed to supply samples of REMS-restricted RLD to an ANDA applicant or an applicant seeking to approval of a biosimilar under the Biosimilar Price Competition and Innovation Act of 2009. While it appears to enjoy bipartisan support, it remains to be seen how fast the FAST Generics Act moves through the halls of Congress.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.brown.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/bipartisan-group-of-senators-urge-commerce-department-to-stand-up-for-american-jobs-against-unfair-chinese-trade-practices,Bipartisan Group of Senators Urge Commerce Department to Stand Up for American Jobs Against Unfair Chinese Trade Practices,2014-12-17,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,OH,Sherrod Brown,B000944,www.brown.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Brown and Grassley Lead Bipartisan Group of Eight Senators in Calling on Administration to Ensure Level Playing Field for Aluminum Extrusion Manufacturers
				
			
			Wednesday, December 17, 2014
            
	
			
			WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, a bipartisan group of eight senators – led by U.S. Sens. Sherrod Brown (D-OH) and Chuck Grassley (R-IA) – sent a letter urging the U.S. Department of Commerce to stand up for American jobs in the aluminum extrusion industry that are threatened by unfair Chinese trade practices. The letter to Commerce Assistant Secretary for Enforcement and Compliance Paul Piquado, was signed by Brown and Grassley along with U.S. Sens. Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Tom Harkin (D-IA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Al Franken (D-MN), Ron Wyden (D-OR), and Thad Cochran (R-MS). It called on the Administration to ensure a level playing field for aluminum extrusion manufacturers.
“When countries like China dump their products in the U.S. market, it threatens American jobs and our workers’ ability to compete,” Brown said. “Ohio companies deserve a fair chance in the marketplace and the Commerce Department owes workers a full and fair investigation. That’s why I’m urging the Administration to address any harm caused to American businesses and workers.”
“Trade laws are meant to enforce fairness for all partners,” Grassley said.  “The Administration should use the most accurate data available to help ensure U.S. companies aren’t facing harm from unfair Chinese trade practices.”
The Commerce Department is currently conducting an administrative review of the antidumping (AD) and countervailing duty (CVD) orders against Chinese imports of aluminum extrusions. These orders are critical to stopping the flood of unfairly-traded imports. While this review is underway, Brown and the senators are urging the Commerce Department to work with the domestic industry to ensure the scope of the AD and CVD orders provides adequate relief to American companies and prevents evasion of the orders.  Additionally, the letter urges the Commerce Department to reevaluate data used in the administrative review of the CVD order. The original determinations used pricing data from the London Metals Exchange (LME) that did not accurately reflect the full price of aluminum in the global market.
Full text of the letter is below and here.

December 17, 2014

The Honorable Paul Piquado
Assistant Secretary for Enforcement and Compliance
U.S. Department of Commerce
14th Street & Constitution Ave, NW
Washington, D.C. 20230
 
Dear Assistant Secretary Piquado:
We are writing to express our strong support for the domestic aluminum extrusions industry and the importance of maintaining strong antidumping (AD) and countervailing duty (CVD) orders against Chinese imports.  The AD and CVD orders have been critical to stopping the flood of unfairly traded imports, but the Department of Commerce’s recent decisions narrowing the scope of the orders and its use of skewed data in the current CVD administrative review could undermine the effectiveness of the orders. 
The AD and CVD orders against Chinese aluminum extrusions have stopped the flood of unfairly traded imports that brought the domestic sector to the brink of collapse in 2010.  By 2009, Chinese extrusions accounted for 19 percent of the U.S. market, but as a result of the orders, that market share dropped to less than one percent in 2013.  Without the duties on Chinese imports, the U.S. sector would face more mill closures and job losses. 
We understand that the scope of the orders has been challenging for the Department of Commerce to implement, but we ask that you work with the aluminum extrusions industry to develop a scope that is workable for American suppliers and the Department.  Specifically, we urge you to focus on the way you define “final finished products.”  The Department should not allow Chinese producers to evade the AD and CVD orders by adding an inconsequential component to a covered extruded aluminum product. 
In addition, we are concerned that the Department of Commerce used inaccurate data from the London Metals Exchange (LME) in their preliminary determination in the current administrative review of the CVD order.   Any LME pricing data must include the additional regional premiums consumers are required to pay to obtain the primary aluminum.  Without including the additional warehouse extraction fees, the LME data will not accurately reflect the price a purchaser would pay for the aluminum in the global market and will distort the outcome of the administrative review. 
We ask you to work with the domestic industry on both the scope and the LME data issues to ensure the domestic industry can compete on a level playing field. 
Sincerely,

###
			
				
					Press Contact
					Meghan Dubyak/Lauren Kulik (Brown) 202-224-3978
Jill Gerber (Grassley) 202-224-6522",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.brown.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/brown-portman-announce-senate-passage-of-resolution-marking-the-100th-anniversary-of-the-extinction-of-the-passenger-pigeon,"Brown, Portman Announce Senate Passage of Resolution Marking the 100th Anniversary of the Extinction of the Passenger Pigeon",2014-12-17,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,OH,Sherrod Brown,B000944,www.brown.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Cincinnati Zoo Was Home To Martha, the Last Known Passenger Pigeon, Who Died September 1, 1914
				
			
			Wednesday, December 17, 2014
            
	
			
			WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Sens. Sherrod Brown (D-OH) and Rob Portman (R-OH) announced Senate passage of a resolution calling attention to the 100th anniversary of the extinction of the last known passenger pigeon. The resolution passed the Senate by unanimous consent.
“Once the world’s most abundant bird, the passenger pigeon is now extinct – illustrating the need for increased awareness and efforts to protect biodiversity among species,” Brown said. “As our world continues to feel the effects of global warming and climate change, more species will continue to be threatened. That’s why we must prioritize conservation and sustainability to help prevent other plants or animals from suffering the same fate as the passenger pigeon.”
“One hundred years ago, Americans across the eastern United States could have looked up into the sky and seen it filled with passenger pigeons,” Portman said. “Now they are extinct after being the victim of overhunting and habitat destruction. The loss of this species is one of the greatest examples of what can happen if we are not committed to conserving our wildlife. We must learn from their example, and I am proud that this Resolution brings light to this important issue.”
“As Director of the Cincinnati Zoo, I was heartened to learn that the United States Senate has passed a resolution on the 100th Anniversary of the extinction of the passenger pigeon.  Martha, the very last of her species, died at the Cincinnati Zoo in 1914, and has since served as an alarm call for more thoughtful use and protection of our natural resources,” Thane Maynard, Executive Director of the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden said. “With the extinction of the passenger pigeon for an example, American conservation efforts have long lead the way in wildlife conservation, resulting in the comeback of many species, including the bald eagle, American alligator, peregrine falcon, California condor, gray whale, and gray wolf.  My thanks go out to Ohio Senators Sherrod Brown and Rob Portman for putting forth this important resolution calling attention to the value of conservation and sustainability.”
According to Smithsonian Magazine, the passenger pigeon was once believed to constitute 25 to 40 percent of the total bird population of the United States.  However, due to human pressures, the species was pushed to extinction in the early 1900s. The last known individual passenger pigeon, named Martha, died at the Cincinnati Zoological Gardens in 1914.  
###
			
				
					Press Contact
					Meghan Dubyak/Ben Famous (Brown) 202-224-3978
Caitlin Conant/Michael Haidet (Portman) 202-224-5190",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.brown.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/brown-urges-commerce-department-to-stand-up-against-unfair-chinese-trade-practices-protect-jobs-at-sidneys-sapa-extrusions,"Brown Urges Commerce Department to Stand Up Against Unfair Chinese Trade Practices, Protect Jobs at Sidney's Sapa Extrusions",2014-12-17,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,OH,Sherrod Brown,B000944,www.brown.senate.gov,,,legacy,"During Administrative Review, Brown Calls on the Commerce Department to Use Accurate Data, Ensure Duties Cover Aluminum Extrusion Products
				
			
			Wednesday, December 17, 2014
            
	
			
			WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-OH) led a bipartisan group of eight senators in a letter urging the U.S. Department of Commerce to stand up for Shelby County jobs – like those at Sapa Extrusions – against unfair Chinese trade practices in the aluminum extrusion industry.
“When countries like China dump their products in the U.S. market, it threatens Ohio jobs and our workers’ ability to compete,” Brown said. “Ohio companies like Sapa Extrusions in Sidney deserve a fair chance in the marketplace and the Commerce Department owes workers a full and fair investigation. That’s why I’m urging the Administration to address any harm caused to American businesses and workers.”
In a letter to Commerce Assistant Secretary for Enforcement and Compliance Paul Piquado, Brown called on the Administration to ensure a level playing field for aluminum extrusion manufacturers.
The Commerce Department is currently conducting an administrative review of the antidumping (AD) and countervailing duty (CVD) orders against Chinese imports of aluminum extrusions.  These orders are critical to stopping the flood of unfairly-traded imports. While this review is underway, Brown and the senators are urging the Commerce Department to work with the domestic industry to ensure the scope of the AD and CVD orders provides adequate relief to American companies and prevents evasion of the orders.  Additionally, the letter urges the Commerce Department to reevaluate data used in the administrative review of the CVD order. The original determinations used pricing data from the London Metals Exchange (LME) that did not accurately reflect the full price of aluminum in the global market.
Full text of the letter is below.
December 17, 2014
The Honorable Paul Piquado
Assistant Secretary for Enforcement and Compliance
U.S. Department of Commerce
14th Street & Constitution Ave, NW
Washington, D.C. 20230
 
Dear Assistant Secretary Piquado:
We are writing to express our strong support for the domestic aluminum extrusions industry and the importance of maintaining strong antidumping (AD) and countervailing duty (CVD) orders against Chinese imports.  The AD and CVD orders have been critical to stopping the flood of unfairly traded imports, but the Department of Commerce’s recent decisions narrowing the scope of the orders and its use of skewed data in the current CVD administrative review could undermine the effectiveness of the orders. 
The AD and CVD orders against Chinese aluminum extrusions have stopped the flood of unfairly traded imports that brought the domestic sector to the brink of collapse in 2010.  By 2009, Chinese extrusions accounted for 19 percent of the U.S. market, but as a result of the orders, that market share dropped to less than one percent in 2013.  Without the duties on Chinese imports, the U.S. sector would face more mill closures and job losses. 
We understand that the scope of the orders has been challenging for the Department of Commerce to implement, but we ask that you work with the aluminum extrusions industry to develop a scope that is workable for American suppliers and the Department.  Specifically, we urge you to focus on the way you define “final finished products.”  The Department should not allow Chinese producers to evade the AD and CVD orders by adding an inconsequential component to a covered extruded aluminum product. 
In addition, we are concerned that the Department of Commerce used inaccurate data from the London Metals Exchange (LME) in their preliminary determination in the current administrative review of the CVD order.   Any LME pricing data must include the additional regional premiums consumers are required to pay to obtain the primary aluminum.  Without including the additional warehouse extraction fees, the LME data will not accurately reflect the price a purchaser would pay for the aluminum in the global market and will distort the outcome of the administrative review. 
We ask you to work with the domestic industry on both the scope and the LME data issues to ensure the domestic industry can compete on a level playing field. 
 
###
			
				
					Press Contact
					Meghan Dubyak/Ben Famous
(202) 224-3978",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.brown.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/brown-urges-commerce-department-to-stand-up-against-unfair-chinese-trade-practices-protect-jobs-at-trentons-magnode-corporation,"Brown Urges Commerce Department to Stand Up Against Unfair Chinese Trade Practices, Protect Jobs at Trenton's Magnode Corporation",2014-12-17,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,OH,Sherrod Brown,B000944,www.brown.senate.gov,,,legacy,"During Administrative Review, Brown Calls on the Commerce Department to Use Accurate Data, Ensure Duties Cover Aluminum Extrusion Products
				
			
			Wednesday, December 17, 2014
            
	
			
			WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-OH) led a bipartisan group of eight senators in a letter urging the U.S. Department of Commerce to stand up for Butler County jobs – like those at Magnode Corporation – against unfair Chinese trade practices in the aluminum extrusion industry.
“When countries like China dump their products in the U.S. market, it threatens Ohio jobs and our workers’ ability to compete,” Brown said. “Ohio companies like Magnode Corporation in Trenton deserve a fair chance in the marketplace and the Commerce Department owes workers a full and fair investigation. That’s why I’m urging the Administration to address any harm caused to American businesses and workers.”
In a letter to Commerce Assistant Secretary for Enforcement and Compliance Paul Piquado, Brown called on the Administration to ensure a level playing field for aluminum extrusion manufacturers.
The Commerce Department is currently conducting an administrative review of the antidumping (AD) and countervailing duty (CVD) orders against Chinese imports of aluminum extrusions.  These orders are critical to stopping the flood of unfairly-traded imports. While this review is underway, Brown and the senators are urging the Commerce Department to work with the domestic industry to ensure the scope of the AD and CVD orders provides adequate relief to American companies and prevents evasion of the orders.  Additionally, the letter urges the Commerce Department to reevaluate data used in the administrative review of the CVD order. The original determinations used pricing data from the London Metals Exchange (LME) that did not accurately reflect the full price of aluminum in the global market.
Full text of the letter is below.
December 17, 2014
The Honorable Paul Piquado
Assistant Secretary for Enforcement and Compliance
U.S. Department of Commerce
14th Street & Constitution Ave, NW
Washington, D.C. 20230
 
Dear Assistant Secretary Piquado:
We are writing to express our strong support for the domestic aluminum extrusions industry and the importance of maintaining strong antidumping (AD) and countervailing duty (CVD) orders against Chinese imports.  The AD and CVD orders have been critical to stopping the flood of unfairly traded imports, but the Department of Commerce’s recent decisions narrowing the scope of the orders and its use of skewed data in the current CVD administrative review could undermine the effectiveness of the orders. 
The AD and CVD orders against Chinese aluminum extrusions have stopped the flood of unfairly traded imports that brought the domestic sector to the brink of collapse in 2010.  By 2009, Chinese extrusions accounted for 19 percent of the U.S. market, but as a result of the orders, that market share dropped to less than one percent in 2013.  Without the duties on Chinese imports, the U.S. sector would face more mill closures and job losses. 
We understand that the scope of the orders has been challenging for the Department of Commerce to implement, but we ask that you work with the aluminum extrusions industry to develop a scope that is workable for American suppliers and the Department.  Specifically, we urge you to focus on the way you define “final finished products.”  The Department should not allow Chinese producers to evade the AD and CVD orders by adding an inconsequential component to a covered extruded aluminum product. 
In addition, we are concerned that the Department of Commerce used inaccurate data from the London Metals Exchange (LME) in their preliminary determination in the current administrative review of the CVD order.   Any LME pricing data must include the additional regional premiums consumers are required to pay to obtain the primary aluminum.  Without including the additional warehouse extraction fees, the LME data will not accurately reflect the price a purchaser would pay for the aluminum in the global market and will distort the outcome of the administrative review. 
We ask you to work with the domestic industry on both the scope and the LME data issues to ensure the domestic industry can compete on a level playing field.  
###
			
				
					Press Contact
					Meghan Dubyak/Ben Famous
(202) 224-3978",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.brown.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/brown-urges-commerce-department-to-stand-up-for-mahoning-valley-jobs-against-unfair-chinese-trade-practices,Brown Urges Commerce Department to Stand Up for Mahoning Valley Jobs Against Unfair Chinese Trade Practices,2014-12-17,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,OH,Sherrod Brown,B000944,www.brown.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Brown Leads Bipartisan Group of Eight Senators in Calling on Administration to Ensure Level Playing Field for Mahoning Valley Companies, like Aerolite Extrusion Company, Astro Shapes Inc., General Extrusions, Inc., and Pennex Aluminum Company LLC
				
			
			Wednesday, December 17, 2014
            
	
			
			WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-OH) led a bipartisan group of eight senators in a letter urging the U.S. Department of Commerce to stand up for Mahoning Valley jobs in the aluminum extrusion industry that are threatened by unfair Chinese trade practices.
“When countries like China dump their products in the U.S. market, it threatens Mahoning Valley jobs and our workers’ ability to compete,” Brown said. “Ohio companies deserve a fair chance in the marketplace and the Commerce Department owes workers a full and fair investigation. That’s why I’m urging the Administration to address any harm caused to American businesses and workers.”
In a letter to Commerce Assistant Secretary for Enforcement and Compliance Paul Piquado, Brown and U.S. Sens. Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Tom Harkin (D-IA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Al Franken (D-MN), Ron Wyden (D-OR), and Thad Cochran (R-MS) called on the Administration to ensure a level playing field for aluminum extrusion manufacturers, like Aerolite Extrusion Company and General Extrusions, Inc. in Youngstown, Astro Shapes Inc. in Struthers, and Pennex Aluminum Company LLC in Leetonia.
The Commerce Department is currently conducting an administrative review of the antidumping (AD) and countervailing duty (CVD) orders against Chinese imports of aluminum extrusions. These orders are critical to stopping the flood of unfairly-traded imports. While this review is underway, Brown and the senators are urging the Commerce Department to work with the domestic industry to ensure the scope of the AD and CVD orders provides adequate relief to American companies and prevents evasion of the orders.  Additionally, the letter urges the Commerce Department to reevaluate data used in the administrative review of the CVD order. The original determinations used pricing data from the London Metals Exchange (LME) that did not accurately reflect the full price of aluminum in the global market.
Full text of the letter is below and here.
December 17, 2014
The Honorable Paul Piquado
Assistant Secretary for Enforcement and Compliance
U.S. Department of Commerce
14th Street & Constitution Ave, NW
Washington, D.C. 20230

Dear Assistant Secretary Piquado:
We are writing to express our strong support for the domestic aluminum extrusions industry and the importance of maintaining strong antidumping (AD) and countervailing duty (CVD) orders against Chinese imports.  The AD and CVD orders have been critical to stopping the flood of unfairly traded imports, but the Department of Commerce’s recent decisions narrowing the scope of the orders and its use of skewed data in the current CVD administrative review could undermine the effectiveness of the orders. 
The AD and CVD orders against Chinese aluminum extrusions have stopped the flood of unfairly traded imports that brought the domestic sector to the brink of collapse in 2010.  By 2009, Chinese extrusions accounted for 19 percent of the U.S. market, but as a result of the orders, that market share dropped to less than one percent in 2013.  Without the duties on Chinese imports, the U.S. sector would face more mill closures and job losses. 
We understand that the scope of the orders has been challenging for the Department of Commerce to implement, but we ask that you work with the aluminum extrusions industry to develop a scope that is workable for American suppliers and the Department.  Specifically, we urge you to focus on the way you define “final finished products.”  The Department should not allow Chinese producers to evade the AD and CVD orders by adding an inconsequential component to a covered extruded aluminum product. 
In addition, we are concerned that the Department of Commerce used inaccurate data from the London Metals Exchange (LME) in their preliminary determination in the current administrative review of the CVD order.   Any LME pricing data must include the additional regional premiums consumers are required to pay to obtain the primary aluminum.  Without including the additional warehouse extraction fees, the LME data will not accurately reflect the price a purchaser would pay for the aluminum in the global market and will distort the outcome of the administrative review. 
We ask you to work with the domestic industry on both the scope and the LME data issues to ensure the domestic industry can compete on a level playing field. 
Sincerely,
###
			
				
					Press Contact
					Meghan Dubyak/Lauren Kulik
(202) 224-3978",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.brown.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/sen-brown-announces-275000-in-new-federal-funds-to-improve-wastewater-collection-in-scioto-county,"Sen. Brown Announces $275,000 in New Federal Funds to Improve Wastewater Collection in Scioto County",2014-12-17,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,OH,Sherrod Brown,B000944,www.brown.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Brown Author of Legislation to Help Communities Fund Wastewater System Renovations
				
			
			Wednesday, December 17, 2014
            
	
			
			WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-OH) – a senior member of the Senate Agriculture Committee – announced that the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) awarded $275,000 to the Scioto County Commission to help build a new wastewater collection system. The project, funded through the Rural Development Grant program, will serve 275 Eden Park users who currently utilize failing wastewater collection systems.
“Ohio’s rural communities and small towns face a heavy burden when financing infrastructure projects,” Brown said. “This federal investment will lead to more reliable service for residents and cleaner waterways for Scioto County. Projects like this help boost the economy and make the region more competitive.”
Brown is working to help communities around Ohio struggling to afford costly but necessary renovations to sewer systems. Last week, he introduced the Clean Water Compliance and Affordability Act to help communities make renovations to outdated sewer systems, while improving water quality and keeping rates affordable for residents and small business.
Brown is the first Ohioan to serve on the Senate Agriculture Committee in more than 40 years. In 2014, he was part of the Senate Farm Bill Conference Committee that successfully negotiated a five-year farm bill that had been stalled for more than three years. Brown supported a strong Rural Development title in the 2014 Farm Bill to encourage economic development and increased infrastructure investment in rural communities. During Senate consideration of the farm bill, Brown sponsored an amendment to support rural development, which cleared the Senate with bipartisan support by a vote of 55-44. Brown’s amendment would fund critical U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development programs that help Ohio communities update wastewater and sewer infrastructure systems, provide access to capital for Ohio agricultural producers and small businesses, and provide technical assistance to beginning farmers and ranchers.
###
			
				
					Press Contact
					Meghan Dubyak/Ben Famous
202-224-3978",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.brown.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/sen-brown-announces-450000-in-new-federal-funds-to-improve-wastewater-collection-in-montgomery-county,"Sen. Brown Announces $450,000 in New Federal Funds to Improve Wastewater Collection in Montgomery County",2014-12-17,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,OH,Sherrod Brown,B000944,www.brown.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Brown Author of Legislation to Help Communities Fund Wastewater System Renovations
				
			
			Wednesday, December 17, 2014
            
	
			
			WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-OH) – a senior member of the Senate Agriculture Committee – announced that the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) awarded $450,000 to the Montgomery County Board of Commissioners to help build a new wastewater collection system for the Village of Phillipsburg. The project, funded through the Rural Development Grant program, will serve 268 users who currently utilize failing wastewater collection systems. The new collection system will transport wastewater from the Village to Dayton for treatment.
“Ohio’s rural communities and small towns face a heavy burden when financing infrastructure projects,” Brown said. “This federal investment will lead to more reliable service for residents and cleaner waterways for Phillipsburg. Projects like this help boost the economy and make the region more competitive.”
Brown is working to help communities around Ohio struggling to afford costly but necessary renovations to sewer systems. Last week, he introduced the Clean Water Compliance and Affordability Act to help communities make renovations to outdated sewer systems, while improving water quality and keeping rates affordable for residents and small business.
Brown is the first Ohioan to serve on the Senate Agriculture Committee in more than 40 years. In 2014, he was part of the Senate Farm Bill Conference Committee that successfully negotiated a five-year farm bill that had been stalled for more than three years. Brown supported a strong Rural Development title in the 2014 Farm Bill to encourage economic development and increased infrastructure investment in rural communities. During Senate consideration of the farm bill, Brown sponsored an amendment to support rural development, which cleared the Senate with bipartisan support by a vote of 55-44. Brown’s amendment would fund critical U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development programs that help Ohio communities update wastewater and sewer infrastructure systems, provide access to capital for Ohio agricultural producers and small businesses, and provide technical assistance to beginning farmers and ranchers.
 
###
			
				
					Press Contact
					Meghan Dubyak/Ben Famous
202-224-3978",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://jordan.house.gov/media/press-releases/ohio-gop-delegation-releases-obamacare-horror-stories-ohio,Ohio GOP delegation releases ObamaCare horror stories from Ohio,2014-12-17,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,OH,Jim Jordan,J000289,jordan.house.gov,jordan,https://jordan.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Boehner VIDEO: A Message on ObamaCare from a Mom in Piqua

Speaker John Boehner (OH-08) and Representatives Steve Chabot (OH-01), Brad Wenstrup (OH-02), Jim Jordan (OH-04), Bob Latta (OH-05), Bill Johnson (OH-06), Bob Gibbs (OH-07), Mike Turner (OH-10), Pat Tiberi (OH-12), Dave Joyce (OH-14), Steve Stivers (OH-15), and Jim Renacci (OH-16) today released the following statement reacting to their constituents' experiences with open enrollment and the Department of Health and Human Services' (HHS) downgrade of projected enrollees. The delegation is encouraging constituents to continue the conversation by using the ""hashtags"" #ObamaCare #StoriesFromOhio on social media platforms, such as Twitter and Facebook.

""All across Ohio, the harmful effects of the president's health care law continue to be widespread. Premiums and deductibles are rising, plans are being cancelled, people are losing access to their doctors, and small businesses have been forced to reduce employee hours in order to comply with the law's mandates – turning full-time work into part-time work for too many.

""The president's Department of Health and Human Services recently reduced its estimate for projected enrollees, acknowledging the same lack of confidence Ohioans have expressed in the product it's selling.

""We've heard from a great many of our constituents who have shared their stories, and that is why we will continue to fight to repeal and replace this broken system with real health care solutions that will lead to lower costs and more choices.""

Following are testimonials from Ohioans throughout the state:

""We have a ten-year-old daughter with cerebral palsy and a seizure disorder. We are already feeling the effects of Obamacare, with our current insurance company limiting therapy visits…and informing us that her current drugs may not be covered starting in January. I believe health care reform is needed. However, government-controlled healthcare is not the answer. Health care needs to be patient-and-doctor centered, with competition allowed across state lines for insurance companies.""

– Carol, Mason, OH

""Our premiums are jumping by 18 percent for 2015 and because of Obamacare; we will lose our plan in 2016. We are a healthy family of three, and have had no significant claims. I worry that next year, my family and I will be facing even higher deductibles, out of pocket costs, and premiums for a plan that doesn't meet our needs.""

– Mike, Cincinnati, OH

""My company had insurance that our employees liked, but costs rose rapidly when Washington started discussing the Affordable Care Act. After Obamacare was passed I hoped that the prices would stabilize, but unfortunately we are still facing huge increases this year. We now have insurance through a new company that got its start with Obamacare but we are very unhappy. Our new plan has altered our prescription coverage so that some employees must pay hundreds of dollars out-of-pocket for prescriptions that were previously covered with reasonable co-pays. Everyone should be able to sit down with their own doctor and decide what treatment is best.""

– Dan, Business owner in Ohio's 4th District

""I am very disappointed with the Affordable Care Act. I just had to change my insurance policy through work because my premium would have gone up by $1300/year. I liked my policy. I wanted to keep my policy. I was told that I could keep it if I liked it. But it was not supposed to go up in cost. The ACA was supposed to save us $2500 not increase costs by $1300.""

– Resident of Ohio's 5th District, Perrysburg, OH

""Our medical insurance premium costs went from $235 per month to $520 per month…President Obama promised that people would not have to choose between quality medical care and the basic essentials of life… I think that this system and the president have greatly failed me and many Americans in what was promised. I go to bed at night wondering how I am going to pay the increase in the medical insurance premiums as well as the increases in the out of pocket medical expenses we now face.""

– Alice, Dennison, OH

""Since I was a sophomore I had been working two jobs at Miami University to help pay for my education. When I received a letter over the summer saying that I would no longer be able to work more than thirty hours a week because of a new ObamaCare requirement, I was forced to give up one of my jobs. This is happening to students all over the country due to the reckless requirements written into the President's health care law. At a time when education is so expensive in the United States, these work hour requirements are hurting hardworking students.""

– Carolyn Turner, Daughter of Congressman Mike Turner, Dayton, OH

""My insurance has increased over $100 a month. My daughter is not covered because I cannot afford it, plus Medicaid has not gotten back to me about her (she has a disability). My deductible is $2500, which I have to pay before anything is covered! I cannot even afford to go to doctor and my employer said it is because of ObamaCare. There are no extras, just basic coverage. I hope nothing major happens to me and my family!""

– Sherrie, Hartville, OH

""I found out today our premium is going up again this year another 35 percent. We also have a $7,000 dollar deductible... It really angers me. We pay our taxes, we pay our bills. We try to do the right thing … As things stand right now, with increasing cost of living, [stagnant] wages, and increasing health care costs, I don't know how we are going to remain financially solvent and also have any kind of quality of life. For a health care law that was intended to help people, it sure seems that the ones who are being hurt are those who have worked hard to make a living for themselves.""

-Jamey, Piqua, OH

""My premiums rose 25 percent this year and will rise 25 percent again next year. It's not just my premiums that are increasing; my out-pocket-expenses went from copays to a 20 percent cost-share, as well. Obamacare certainly hasn't made healthcare more affordable for me.""

– Nancy, Central Ohio

""I had the same health insurance plan since 2007, one that was affordable and the right plan for me. Six months ago, I got a letter from my insurance company telling me that because of ObamaCare, they were no longer offering the plan I had been on for seven years. After struggling to find a new plan, my new monthly premium is now doubled from $425 to over $900.""

– Jeff, Hudson, OH

""My name is Mildred and I retired as a teacher's aide. I now live in my daughter's home. As a retiree from the Ohio School system, I used to have a good health care plan which has covered a heart surgery in addition to other health needs. When ObamaCare started I received a notice that my premium would increase from $66.00 to $299.00 per month. That new amount was way more than my meager pension. I had no choice but to cancel my policy. My doctors tell me that I will eventually need another heart operation. I don't know what I will do.""

– Mildred, Columbus, OH

""I own a small business and employ close to 1,000 people, of which 700 should be eligible for insurance. If 75 percent of those eligible participate, I will be put out of business within 3-6 months. Though I am planning to hire and expand, the 30-hour definition of full-time employment within Obamacare threatens our very existence. I urge Congress to apply the traditional 40-hour definition of full-time employment to the health care law in order to provide me with the certainty I need to grow my company and create jobs.""

– Jim, North Canton, OH

-30-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T22:44:12Z
https://kaptur.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kaptur-opposed-dodd-frank-rider-during-appropriations-markup,Kaptur Opposed Dodd-Frank Rider During Appropriations Markup,2014-12-17,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,OH,Marcy Kaptur,K000009,kaptur.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON- During a June markup of the Financial Services  
	appropriations bill, Congresswoman Kaptur stood out as one of three  
	members to oppose a controversial amendment by Kansas Republican Kevin  
	Yoder.  
	  
	The controversial Yoder rider to the omnibus spending bill eliminates  
	the requirement for banks to separate trades of financial derivatives  
	from traditional banking activity, which is insured by public dollars  
	through the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. Trading in  
	derivatives such as credit-default swaps contributed to the 2008  
	financial collapse.  
	  
	Here is Kaptur's full statement that was made in the subcommittee  
	markup six months ago:  
	  
	""I rise in opposition to the gentleman's amendment. I'm not sure 100%  
	of the Members of this Committee fully comprehend everything that is  
	being included and excluded in the gentleman's amendment. So for  
	example, if I'm on the proper amendment, you distinguish between  
	insured depository institutions and changing the language to  
	covered depository institutions. What is the full implication of the  
	substitution of those words? Who does it include, who does it exclude?  
	  
	 You talk about bona fide hedging and traditional bank activities.  
	One of the ways we got into trouble in this country was in moving away  
	from true commodities markets to financially transacting false money.  
	That's what happened in 2000 when traditional banking was thrown out.  
	And so I find it very interesting what the gentleman is trying to do  
	here on an appropriations bill.  
	  
	""I'd like to know who is really behind this. Who has enough power to  
	try to bring this before this Committee? And I have some imaginations  
	on who that might be.  
	  
	""When the traditional manner of handling real money and commodities  
	was thrown out in 2000, it was done in a bill that came here in a  
	conference report--and most members didn't even know what they were  
	voting on. And then 2008 happened just a few years after that.  
	  
	""Our country got in trouble when we started financializing the value  
	of true commodities. If you look at the price of oil today, you'll  
	find that a good 40-70 bucks of a barrel is actually not true value.  
	It is merely what Wall Street has done to create false value and is  
	causing consumers to pay so much more per gallon for every gallon of  
	gasoline that they buy. There is something really striking that has  
	happened in the last decade in terms of the way that we use to value  
	real money and real commodities inside this country.  
	  
	""I think what the gentleman is trying to do is really dangerous and it  
	doesn't belong in this Committee. I urge my colleagues to vote  
	strongly no against this amendment.  
	  
	""And ask yourself the question (of) who is really trying to do this on  
	an appropriations bill?""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.portman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=794fd9ef-9e5d-4082-91b7-70e4476b1bfb,Portman Congratulates Toledo Jeep Assembly on Milestone,2014-12-17,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,OH,Rob Portman,P000449,www.portman.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Rob Portman (R-Ohio) congratulated the Toledo Jeep Assembly Complex and the UAW on the announcement that they will likely reach 500,000 Jeeps manufactured this year sometime this week:
“Congratulations to the Toledo Jeep Complex, the UAW, and all Toledo Jeep employees on their hard work to reach this impressive milestone,” Portman stated. “Jane and I are proud Cherokee owners as we purchased one earlier this year and appreciate all of the good work being done by those at the Toledo plant and around Ohio. As co-chair of the Senate Auto Caucus, I’ll continue to work to promote policies that help the auto industry grow and thrive.”
Portman serves as co-chair of the Senate Auto Caucus.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://jordan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=397879,Jordan to chair Oversight subcommittee on health care administration,2014-12-16,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,OH,Jim Jordan,J000289,jordan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Incoming Oversight and Government Reform Committee Chairman Jason Chaffetz announced today that Congressman Jim Jordan (R-Urbana) will chair the OGR subcommittee on Health Care, Benefits and Administrative Rules.
Of the announcement Rep. Jordan said:
“I am honored to again serve the American people and my district as a subcommittee chairman on the Oversight and Government Reform Committee. Uncovering and investigating government abuse has been my passion in Congress. I look forward to highlighting areas of waste and abuse, and ensuring that the federal government works for the American people, and not the other way around.”
Rep. Jordan is a Member of the House Judiciary Committee and the Select Committee on Benghazi.
-30-",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://renacci.house.gov/index.cfm/weekly-column?ContentRecord_id=EA2E9978-113F-4446-8082-BCA746FF6E48,A Measure To Provide Stability And Certainty To Americans,2014-12-16,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,OH,Jim Renacci,R000586,renacci.house.gov,,,legacy,"This past week, the House of Representatives and the United States Senate came together to pass the FY 2015 Appropriations Omnibus Bill, or a bill more commonly known as the “CRomnibus.” Included in the package were measures that heard more than 80 hours of debate as well as more than 400 amendments that were considered on the House floor.
We had two choices this past Thursday evening. The first option was to pass a two-month continuing resolution that would have given President Obama full authority to execute his immigration plan and eliminate all of the House’s appropriations work. The second option was to pass the cromnibus, which included 11 of the 12 appropriations bills, and only funds Homeland Security, where immigration enforcement is funded, for 90 days.
If we passed a two-month continuing resolution, the government would have likely had to operate off of short-term patches through next September. The cromnibus funds the government through the fiscal year and is the best course of action to address the President’s executive overreach, which will be revisited in the New Year once we have a Republican majority in the Senate. There is no question that a long-term spending measure that reins in executive overreach was the better option over continuing down the path of stop-gap bills. For these reasons, I supported it.
Though the cromnibus is far from perfect, it includes several items that are not only good for Northeast Ohioans, but Americans everywhere. For example, it benefits Northeast Ohioans by providing funding for the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative and an anti-heroin task force to combat the growing problem in our region and across the country. The measure reduces funding for the IRS and EPA, and provides funding to address the VA backlog and appeals. I was also proud to support a pay raise for military service members. Additionally, it eliminates new funding for the President’s health care law, and cuts IPAB funding by $10 million. It also prevents a taxpayer bailout of the risk corridor program within the President’s health care law, and requires the Office of Inspector General (OIG) to report to Congress on improper payments of Obamacare subsidies.
I was pleased to see Congress come together to find a bipartisan solution that will provide the certainty Americans need to plan for their futures. The package was sent to President Obama over the weekend, and I look forward to seeing him sign this legislation into law.
If you have any questions or if our office can be of assistance to you, please don't hesitate to call us at our Wadsworth office: (330) 334-0040, Parma office: (440) 882-6779, or Washington office: (202) 225-3876. I also encourage you to visit our website at renacci.house.gov and subscribe to our Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube pages to get the latest updates on my work in Washington and Ohio's 16th District.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.brown.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/brown-wicker-urge-state-department-to-protect-religious-minorities-in-iraq-syria,"Brown, Wicker Urge State Department to Protect Religious Minorities in Iraq, Syria",2014-12-16,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,OH,Sherrod Brown,B000944,www.brown.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Tuesday, December 16, 2014
            
	
			
			
			
				
					Press Contact
					WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Sens. Sherrod Brown (D-OH) and Roger Wicker (R-MS) led a bipartisan letter to U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry urging the State Department to take immediate action to protect religious minorities in Iraq and Syria. The letter was co-signed by U.S. Sens. Dan Coats (R-IN), Jim Inhofe (R-OK), Mark Kirk (R-IL), Carl Levin (D-MI), Rob Portman (R-OH), Marco Rubio (R-FL), and John Thune, (R-SD).
“We have an obligation to stand up for human rights,",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://jordan.house.gov/media/press-releases/jordan-chair-oversight-subcommittee-health-care-administration,Jordan to chair Oversight subcommittee on health care administration,2014-12-16,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,OH,Jim Jordan,J000289,jordan.house.gov,jordan,https://jordan.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Incoming Oversight and Government Reform Committee Chairman Jason Chaffetz announced today that Congressman Jim Jordan (R-Urbana) will chair the OGR subcommittee on Health Care, Benefits and Administrative Rules.

Of the announcement Rep. Jordan said:

""I am honored to again serve the American people and my district as a subcommittee chairman on the Oversight and Government Reform Committee. Uncovering and investigating government abuse has been my passion in Congress. I look forward to highlighting areas of waste and abuse, and ensuring that the federal government works for the American people, and not the other way around.""

Rep. Jordan is a Member of the House Judiciary Committee and the Select Committee on Benghazi.

-30-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T22:44:12Z
https://www.portman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=97a52f2e-528b-4e71-bfcd-25763ff49d28,Portman Calls on Administration to Protect Syrian and Iraqi Religious Minorities,2014-12-16,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,OH,Rob Portman,P000449,www.portman.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Rob Portman (R-Ohio) today joined a bipartisan effort calling on Secretary of State John Kerry to assist religious minorities facing persecution in Syria and Iraq, such as Christians and Yazidis, to find refuge in the United States. He also urged the State Department to provide these minorities with better access to U.S. humanitarian aid. The letter was led by U.S. Senators Roger Wicker (R-Miss.) and Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio).
“The United States must stand up for religious freedom not only at home, but also in regions of the world experiencing turmoil like the Middle East,” Portman stated. “It’s critical we send a clear message that we will not tolerate targeted violence against Christians or any other religious minorities in Iraq and Syria and that those engaging in these brutal acts must be stopped.”
The Senators’ letter specifically calls for “the creation of a Priority 2 (P-2) group under the United States Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP) for religious minorities from Iraq and Syria.”
This new classification would provide a process for Christians, Druze, Yazidis, and others to be considered for resettlement in the United States. In the past, this designation has been used for groups of humanitarian concern, including religious minorities from the former Soviet Union, Cuba, and Iran.
Earlier this year, Portman introduced a resolution condemning the violence and persecution of Iraqi Christians and other religious minorities by the Islamic State in Iraq, which passed the Senate in September. The resolution also urges the President to reaffirm America’s commitment to religious liberty by helping to create safe zones for refugees fleeing persecution, ensuring timely processing of visa applications from religious minorities, and working with the Iraqi government to ensure the rights of religious minorities are protected.  
 The full text of the letter can be found below.
December 16, 2014
The Honorable John F. Kerry
Secretary of State
2201 C Street NW
Washington, D.C. 20520
Dear Secretary Kerry,
We write to encourage you to take expeditious action to protect Christians and other vulnerable religious minorities from the unprecedented level of violence in Iraq and Syria. 
The creation of a Priority 2 (P-2) group under the United States Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP) for religious minorities from Iraq and Syria would provide a structured process for Christians, Alawites, Druze, Yazidis, and others to be considered for resettlement in the United States. This designation has been used for groups of humanitarian concern, including religious minorities from the former Soviet Union, Cuba, and Iran.  Although the Administration has announced that it will create more places for Syrian refugees, we have not stated that religious minorities such as Christians will be considered for admission to the United States.
Religious minorities also have difficulty accessing humanitarian assistance due to the hostility and discrimination that they face from other citizens, including other refugees.  The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights has acknowledged that religious minorities avoid camps for this reason. As such, we encourage you to direct the U.S. Agency for International Development to ensure that religious minorities have sufficient access to the nearly $2 billion in aid that the United States has pledged for humanitarian relief efforts in Iraq and Syria.
Religious cleansing has reached historic levels in the Middle East.  Since the beginning of the civil war in Syria in 2011, President Bashar al-Assad, Syrian rebels, and terrorist groups have targeted religious minorities for violence.  In Iraq, Christians, Yazidis, and Mandeans have lived in fear of terrorist groups for the last decade.  Now, the brutal Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) has openly vowed to end the existence of religious minorities in the Middle East. Accordingly, we urge you to act swiftly to help protect religious minorities in Iraq and Syria. 
Thank you for your consideration.
 
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.portman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=9d3099c7-0ba5-468a-b280-4ba6b04c249f,"Portman, Tester Background Check Bill Cleared by Senate",2014-12-16,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,OH,Rob Portman,P000449,www.portman.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. – The Senate this week passed U.S. Senators Rob Portman (R-Ohio) and Jon Tester’s (D-Mont.) bipartisan bill to crack down on bad behavior in the nation’s security clearance process.
Portman and Tester’s Security Clearance Accountability, Reform and Enhancement (SCARE) Act increases accountability and transparency in the security clearance process. The bill prohibits contractors and federal employees found to have compromised the integrity of a background investigation from performing background investigations from that point forward. 
The Senators said the approval of the SCARE Act would go a long way toward strengthening the nation’s security clearance process and making the country safer.
“This commonsense bill will allow us to hold accountable those involved in conducting security clearance investigations and start to get our arms around the issue of how many people really need a clearance.  Both of these things are critical to ensuring that we have a clearance process that is efficient and effective,” said Portman. “I’m pleased it has passed the Senate and look forward to working with our colleagues in the House of Representatives to put this into law.”
“People who have compromised background investigations shouldn’t be part of the process,” Tester said.  “When our national security is at stake, we need workers committed to doing the job right, not cutting corners.  With the Washington Navy Yard shooting still on our minds, these changes will ensure we have a security clearance process capable of protecting our nation and our interests.”
Portman and Tester’s legislation also forces the government to update its policy determining which positions require a security clearance, something Tester has been pushing since last year after it was revealed that nearly five million people have been granted access to our nation’s most sensitive information, including 1.4 million with a top secret security clearance.  
Along with a bipartisan group of Senators, Portman and Tester originally introduced the measures after Edward Snowden, a former government contractor, publicly revealed classified information in June 2013.  The Navy Yard shooting in Washington, D.C. in September 2013 further revealed significant lapses in the background investigation process for security clearances.
The provisions in the SCARE Act stem from a hearing Tester and Portman held last year that revealed a lack of oversight and accountability is wasting taxpayer dollars and jeopardizes the security of our nation’s most sensitive information.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.portman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=d734f04e-c5b1-49c2-bde7-1d2ef314be8e,Portman Statement on Tax Extenders Package,2014-12-16,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,OH,Rob Portman,P000449,www.portman.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Rob Portman (R-Ohio) today released the following statement on his vote against the tax extenders package:      “I was disappointed that we couldn’t come to a longer-term extenders agreement. By the time the bill gets to the President’s desk, we’ll essentially be extending these provisions for 15 days and by the time we come back into session, the provisions will all have expired.      “Further, I believe that we missed a great opportunity to make a few of the key expiring provisions permanent.  Permanency for provisions like the R&D tax credit and expensing for small businesses would have given businesses the certainty they need to grow and create jobs, something that’s crucial in our recovering economy.  The bill that passed the Senate today leaves families and businesses in limbo over what exactly their tax bill will be for another year.     “I was particularly disappointed the bill did not include an extension of the Health Coverage Tax Credit (HCTC), which is vitally important to thousands of Delphi salaried retirees, USW retirees, and UAW retirees in Ohio and throughout the country.  The provision didn’t make it into the final package despite my efforts along with others to successfully add it into the Senate’s bill last spring. The fight isn’t over.  Moving forward, I’ll keep working with impacted Delphi retirees in Youngstown, Dayton and beyond, and will continue to work on a path forward to help these retirees regain the financial security the government took away from them.     “A bright spot in the package was the inclusion of the ABLE Act.  Families with children with disabilities often face overwhelming expenses which can prohibit them from attaining opportunities that contribute to a meaningful and fulfilling life. The ABLE Act, which I cosponsored, will allow families who have a child with a disability to save for their long-term care through 529-style savings accounts. The ABLE Act is a crucial step to enable individuals with disabilities to save for the future and opens new opportunities for them to live a fulfilling life.”     Earlier this year, the Senate Finance Committee passed an amendment sponsored by Portman and U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio) that would extend the HCTC for retirees who lost their healthcare coverage—in addition to their pensions and other benefits—when the companies for which they worked either entered into bankruptcy or moved operations overseas. The amendment was passed during the Senate Finance Committee’s consideration of a tax extenders passage.      The senators recently urged their colleagues to support the extension of HCTC in a letter which can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://billjohnson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398349,Johnson & Tonko Statement on House and Senate Passage of the Anti-Doping Agency Reauthorization Act,2014-12-15,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,OH,Bill Johnson,J000292,billjohnson.house.gov,,,legacy,"""S. 2338 reauthorizes the USADA to ensure that the agency continues testing for performance enhancing drugs, sanctions those who cheat, educates young athletes, and develops new testing for performance enhancing drugs.""
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      Representative Bill Johnson (R-Marietta) & Representative Paul Tonko (D-NY) issued the following statement after the House and Senate passed S. 2338, the United States Anti-Doping Agency Reauthorization Act.  Both Representative Johnson and Representative Tonko introduced the companion bill (H.R.5614) in the House. “I’m thankful to have worked on this bipartisan legislation with Rep. Tonko.  It’s important that the United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) be reauthorized to ensure a level playing field for athletes to compete in the various sports organizations under its administration, and to continue its mission to educate America’s youth on the dangers of performance enhancing drugs.  I encourage President Obama to sign this legislation as soon as possible,” Bill Johnson said.  

“I am pleased that we were able to get this legislation passed and help our children's role models lead by example and live their lives with healthy bodies and minds. I thank Congressman Johnson for his leadership on this issue and I look forward to seeing this become law,” added Representative Tonko.  
 The USADA was first established in 2000 by the U.S. Olympic Committee to combat doping across the roughly 50 national sports organizations under its jurisdiction.  S. 2338 reauthorizes the USADA to ensure that the agency continues testing for performance enhancing drugs, sanctions those who cheat, educates young athletes, and develops new testing for performance enhancing drugs.  The legislation now heads to President Obama’s desk for his signature.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://billjohnson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398350,Bill Johnson Statement on the Ohio Sales Tax Holiday,2014-12-15,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,OH,Bill Johnson,J000292,billjohnson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Bill Johnson released the following statement after the Ohio General Assembly passed legislation establishing a sales tax holiday for three days next August geared towards consumers doing back-to-school shopping:
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      I was pleased to learn that the Ohio General Assembly passed legislation establishing a sales tax holiday for three days next August geared towards consumers doing back-to-school shopping. It is my understanding Gov. Kasich will sign the measure into law. Before I was elected to Congress, I built a grassroots coalition called the Ohio Sales Tax Reform Incentive (OSTRI), that first advocated for this legislation back in 2009. In my current position, I hear from constituents every day who are still over-taxed. This action will allow Ohioans to save more of their hard-earned money as they purchase essential back-to-school products for their family.  When consumers have additional buying power, it creates confidence, and is a form of private sector economic stimulus.  This measure helps keep retail revenue and jobs in Ohio, keeps Ohio consumers from crossing state lines to do their school shopping elsewhere, and it attracts consumers from neighboring states to do their back-to-school shipping in Ohio.  It’s a simple economic concept. This legislation is a win-win-win for Ohio consumers, retailers, and local and county governments.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kaptur.house.gov/index.php?option=com_contentview=articleid=3295:statement-by-congresswoman-kaptur-on-the-great-lakes-restoration-initiative-reauthorizationcatid=51:2015-press-releasesItemid=300260,Statement by Congresswoman Kaptur on the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative Reauthorization,2014-12-15,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,OH,Marcy Kaptur,K000009,kaptur.house.gov,,,legacy,"Marcy Kaptur is inviting parents, grandparents, caring adults, and youth from across Northern Ohio to participate in a new “Read to Succeed” challenge. “Read to Succeed” is an initiative to encourage children and adults to read together and in doing so, the community is ensuring that our youth are prepared to read.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://stivers.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398472,Stivers to Serve on House Rules and Financial Services Committees,2014-12-15,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,OH,Steve Stivers,S001187,stivers.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON – Rep. Steve Stivers (R-OH) today announced he was selected to serve on the House Committee on Rules in the 114th Congress.  Additionally, Stivers will continue to serve on the House Financial Services Committee.
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      WASHINGTON – Rep. Steve Stivers (R-OH) today announced he was selected to serve on the House Committee on Rules in the 114th Congress.  Additionally, Stivers will continue to serve on the House Financial Services Committee.“I appreciate the opportunity to be a Member of the Rules Committee and look forward to working with Chairman Sessions to shape American policy in the next Congress,” Stivers said.   The Committee on Rules was created on April 2, 1789, making it one of the oldest standing House committees.  Historically, the committee is often known as “The Speaker’s Committee” because it was chaired by the Speaker up until 1910 and is the means through which the Speaker of the House manages the House Floor.  The Committee on Rules is charged with determining which bills reach the House Floor for a vote.  The committee also determines how long and under what rules the full body of the House will debate each bill.  “As a fellow Eagle Scout and proud American, I am honored to have Congressman Steve Stivers serve on the Rules Committee for the 114th Congress. Congressman Stivers has bravely served our country for 29 years in the Army National Guard, having received the Bronze Star for his exceptional leadership and accomplishments during his time overseas. As a small businessman, Congressman Stivers brings a vast amount of experience to the Rules Committee, and I look forward to the work we will accomplish together,” said the Committee on Rules Chairman, Pete Sessions. Prior to serving in Congress, Stivers founded a small business focused on financial services. He also served in the Ohio Senate and before that worked in the private sector for the Ohio Company and Bank One, where he focused on encouraging economic development and job creation.  A career soldier, Stivers has served 29 years in the Ohio Army National Guard and currently holds the rank of Colonel. He served the United States overseas during Operation Iraqi Freedom in Kuwait, Iraq, Qatar and Djibouti where he led 400 soldiers and contractors and is proud that each and every one returned home safely to the United States.  Stivers received both his bachelor’s degree and his MBA from The Ohio State University and resides in Columbus with his wife, Karen, and children, Sarah and Sam.  -30-",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://timryan.house.gov/press-release/congressman-tim-ryan-featured-cbs-60-minutes-discuss-mindfulness,Congressman Tim Ryan Featured on CBS 60 Minutes to Discuss Mindfulness,2014-12-15,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,OH,Tim Ryan,R000577,timryan.house.gov,,,legacy,"“I was honored to be featured on 60 Minutes this week and have the opportunity to share how the practice of mindfulness has helped me personally and professionally. I am grateful that this segment highlights the work I am doing in Congress. These types of practices are helping veterans heal from the unbearable traumas of war, Marines increase their resiliency, and students increasing their focus and improving their behavior through more mental discipline and less stress,"" said Congressman Ryan. “There has been nothing more rewarding than seeing Veterans who were taking 10 or 12 prescription drugs and not sleeping through the night start a meditation practice. Many of them dramatically reduce their medication to one or two pills and start sleeping through the night. With 22 Veterans taking their own life each day in America, I am passionate about getting more of them access to these types of techniques. ""
""Scientific research of  mindfulness meditation has shown that after just eight weeks of practice it can reduce stress, depression and anxiety, while increasing awareness and focus.  These benefits are why it has been used by professional sports teams like the Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks and the multiple NBA champions Los Angeles Lakers and Chicago Bulls.  These types of Integrative Health/Mind Body techniques are successfully being used in world renowned institutions like the Cleveland Clinic, The Ohio State University and Yale University.  We also see these practices being taught in many Fortune 500 companies around the country from Silicon Valley to Wall Street. I am convinced that we can shift the current state of our country if we start developing the fundamentals necessary for success:  mental discipline, resiliency, grit and high levels of awareness of ourselves and others. Mindfulness practice cultivates all of these qualities.  I applaud Anderson Cooper and 60 Minutes for bringing attention to the important work being done in this field. It can transform our country into a calmer and kinder place for our children and all of our citizens.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://timryan.house.gov/press-release/congressman-tim-ryan-secures-10-million-ohio-based-military-additive-manufacturing,Congressman Tim Ryan Secures $10 Million for Ohio-Based Military Additive Manufacturing Program,2014-12-15,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,OH,Tim Ryan,R000577,timryan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington DC –  Congressman Tim Ryan secured $10 million in funding to create an additive manufacturing innovation research program based at Wright Patterson Air Force Base in Dayton, Ohio. The program will equip the United States Air Force with the technology and expertise to use 3D printing and other emerging manufacturing techniques to fabricate low-volume replacement parts for weapons systems at a lower cost than can be achieved through current defense procurement processes. Ohio is a leader in the field of additive manufacturing with Youngstown State University and the University of Dayton Research Institute already working together on ways to increase the use of additive manufacturing in the military. Northeast Ohio is also home to America Makes (formerly known as the National Additive Manufacturing Innovation Institute).
“I am proud to have secured funding for this important research that will ultimately grow high-paying manufacturing jobs in Ohio and across the United States while reducing costs for the Department of Defense. Additive manufacturing is transforming every sector of our national economy and this program further positions Ohio, which already has a successful additive manufacturing hub in Youngstown, as a leader in this arena,”said Congressman Ryan.
“We are pleased to be working with UDRI on this important research effort. Working together with our industrial partners and our colleagues at the Youngstown Business Incubator, our faculty has established a strong program that is creating new opportunities to utilize additive manufacturing for the production of parts to be used throughout the supply chain.  The Department of Defense initiative will further provide our students with a world class opportunity to be engaged in cutting edge research,” said Dr. Martin Abraham, Interim Provost at Youngstown State University.
“These funds will enable Youngstown State University and the University of Dayton Research Institute to work with the Air Force in applying our unique capabilities in advanced manufacturing technologies to improving fleet readiness and reducing maintenance costs,” said John Leland, Interim Vice President for Research at the University of Dayton.
Congressman Ryan, a member of the House Defense Subcommittee on Appropriations was able to obtain $10 million for the program in the Fiscal Year 2015 Defense Appropriations Bill, which passed the House Appropriations Committee in June of 2014 and was included in the recently passed Omnibus Appropriations bill.
The Omnibus Appropriations bill has been passed by the House of Representatives and the Senate and is expected to soon be signed by the President.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.portman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=84ad987f-3a5d-4d85-babe-ed56b5b16064,"Portman ""Smart Savings Act"" to Strengthen Retirement Headed to the President for",2014-12-15,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,OH,Rob Portman,P000449,www.portman.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Rob Portman (R-Ohio) announced that his legislation to help substantially increase financial returns for federal employees' retirement plans without increasing federal spending has passed both chambers of Congress and is now headed to the President for signature. Portman authored this legislation with Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.).
The Smart Savings Act would change the automatic enrollment for federal employees enrolling in the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) from the overly conservative ""G Fund"" to an age-appropriate, lifecycle ""L Fund"" with higher returns. Employees will retain their existing discretion to elect for more or less conservative investment options.
""I’m pleased this commonsense bill will now become law because it will help ensure that the default TSP enrollment option for federal employees provides a larger nest egg and more security as they move towards retirement,"" said Portman.Federal workers are given the option to invest in the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) as part of their retirement planning. Currently, new workers are automatically enrolled in the ""G Fund,"" which is made up entirely of U.S. Treasury Bonds. While the G Fund is very safe, it is widely viewed by investment professionals as an overly conservative investment, particularly for younger workers, and can leave many unprepared for retirement.
TSP administrators support changing the default enrollment to the lifecycle funds, or ""L Funds,"" which adjust automatically for participants as they age. The Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board approved the plan to seek this legislative change in December 2013, after the Employee Thrift Advisory Council endorsement in November 2013.From the beginning of auto-enrollment in August 2010 until September 2013, the ""G Fund's"" returns totaled 6.33 percent, compared to a 47.4 percent return for the ""L 2040"" fund, which is geared toward younger federal employees. As of July 2013, 39 percent of all TSP funds were invested in the G fund, with 29 percent of recently hired Federal employees auto-enrolled. The passage of the Smart Savings Act will ensure that more federal workers are enrolled in a plan that helps them adequately save for retirement.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.brown.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/brown-blunt-manufacturing-jobs-bill-headed-to-presidents-desk-,Brown-Blunt Manufacturing Jobs Bill Headed to President's Desk,2014-12-14,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,OH,Sherrod Brown,B000944,www.brown.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Bipartisan Revitalize American Manufacturing and Innovation Act Will Create More Next-Generation Advanced Manufacturing Centers to Out-Innovate Global Competitors, Attract Investment
				
			
			Sunday, December 14, 2014
            
	
			
			WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown’s (D-OH) manufacturing jobs legislation that would create the first-ever national network of manufacturing hubs was included in the Omnibus budget legislation that passed the Senate last night. The bill is now headed to the President’s desk.
“I thank Congressmen Reed and Kennedy for advancing this through the House and to Sen. Blunt for his partnership in the Senate,” Brown said. “This bill focuses our nation’s strengths toward a common goal: revitalization of American manufacturing and innovation. When American manufacturing moves to other countries, we don’t just lose production – we lose innovation. A Network for Manufacturing Innovation would foster public-private partnerships that give small businesses, industry leaders, and research institutions the tools they need to compete on a global scale. These regional, industry-led hubs will leverage local expertise and will create thousands of high-paying, high-tech manufacturing jobs for American workers. We’ve seen it work in Youngstown, now it’s time to advance this effort nationwide.”
Cosponsored by U.S. Sen. Roy Blunt (R-MO), the Revitalize American Manufacturing and Innovation Act (RAMI) would establish a National Network of Manufacturing Innovation (NNMI) and create thousands of high-paying, high-tech manufacturing jobs while enhancing the United States’ role as the world’s leader in advanced manufacturing. The House passed companion legislation, sponsored by U.S. Rep. Tom Reed (R-NY-23), in September.
“I’m pleased Congress passed this common-sense, bipartisan bill to boost manufacturing and create jobs in Missouri and nationwide,” Blunt said. “Supporting innovation and manufacturing in America will help us continue to compete in a global economy. I look forward to building on this success in the new Congress and working with my colleagues to pass policies that encourage more economic opportunity and jump-start good-paying jobs for workers in Missouri and nationwide.”
RAMI would bring together industry, universities and community colleges, federal agencies, and all levels of government, to accelerate manufacturing innovation in technologies with commercial applications. These public-private institutes would leverage resources to bridge the gap between basic research and product development.
Using this model, the Administration recently announced two new advanced manufacturing innovation institutes. One, the American Lightweight Materials Manufacturing Innovation Institute (ALMMII), will establish a unique public-private partnership jointly led by The Ohio State University, the University of Michigan, and the Columbus-based Edison Welding Institute (EWI). The project is projected to create more than 10,000 jobs in the next five years. The other, NNMI’s pilot is Youngstown’s “America Makes,” formerly the National Additive Manufacturing Innovation Institute (NAMII).
The legislation is supported by more than 150 companies, universities, and industry organizations. A full list is below.
Associations/Organizations
 
Aerospace Industries Association
Alliance for American Manufacturing
Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers
America’s Natural Gas Alliance (ANGA)
American Association of Community Colleges
American Automotive Policy Council (AAPC)
American Chemical Society
American Chemistry Council
American Federation of Labor-Committee for Industrial Organization
American Iron and Steel Institute
American Small Manufacturers Coalition
American Society for Engineering Education
ASME (founded as American Society of Mechanical Engineers)
Association of American Universities (AAU)
Association of Public and Land-grant Universities (APLU)
Association of Equipment Manufacturers
Business Roundtable
Cambridge Area Chamber of Commerce
Center for Innovative Food Technology
Cincinnati Chamber of Commerce
City of Dayton
Columbus Chamber of Commerce
Columbus Partnership
Dayton Development Coalition
Dayton Region Manufacturers Association
Delaware BioScience Association
Delaware Manufacturing Extension Partnership
Edison Welding Institute
Forging Industry Association
Global Automakers    
Information Technology & Innovation Foundation (ITIF)
International Union, United Automobile, Aerospace and Agricultural Implement Workers of America (UAW) 
Jordan Valley Innovation Center
Maine Manufacturing Extension Partnership
Manufacturing Advocacy and Growth Network (MAGNET)
Mayor Michael Coleman of Columbus, OH
Medical Device Manufacturers Association
Missouri Association of Manufacturers
Missouri Biotechnology Association
Missouri Economic Development Council
Missouri Enterprise
Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association (MEMA)
National Association of Manufacturers
National Composites Center
National Confectioners Association
National Modeling and Simulation Coalition
The New England Council
Ohio Aerospace Institute
Ohio Association of Community Colleges
Ohio Fuel Cell Coalition
Ohio Manufacturers’ Association
One Voice – the joint effort between the National Tooling and Machining Association (NTMA) and the Precision Metalforming Association (PMA)
The Optical Society
PolymerOhio, Inc.
Saint Louis Economic Development Partnership
Semiconductor Equipment and Materials International (SEMI)
Semiconductor Industry Association (SIA)
Society for Modeling and Simulation International
Southern Ohio Diversification Initiative
Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce
Tech Columbus
 
Companies
 
Alcoa
ANSYS
Applied Materials
Appvion
AT&T
Autodesk
BAE Systems
Ball Corporation
BASF Corporation
Battelle Memorial Institute    
Boeing
Brewer Science
Caterpillar Inc.
Corning
Delphi Automotive
DJW Technology
Dow Chemical
DSP North America
Dupont
Eastman Chemical Company
First Solar
GE
Goodyear
Graftech
Honda
Honeywell
IBM
Intel
Libbey Glass
Lockheed Martin Corporation
Navistar
Nestlé
New Balance
Nucor
Owens Illinois
Procter & Gamble
Raytheon
Rockwell Automation
Siemens
Silfex, Inc. and Lam Research Corporation
Smiths Group
SRC Holdings Corp
SunEdison
TechSolve
Texas Instruments
United Technologies
U.S. Steel Corporation
Volkswagen Group of America
Walmart
Whirlpool
Xerox
 
Universities
 
Carnegie Mellon University
Case Western Reserve University
Cincinnati State Technical & Community College
Delaware Technical Community College
Georgia Institute of Technology
Indiana University
Iowa University
Iowa State University
Kent State University
Miami University
Michigan State University
North Central State College
Northwest State Community College
Oberlin College & Conservatory
The Ohio State University
Ohio University
Ohio University Innovation Center
Ozark Technical Community College
Rochester Institute of Technology
Stark State College
University of California – Berkley
University of California – Davis
University of California – Irvine
University of Cincinnati
University of Colorado-Boulder
University of Illinois
University of Michigan
University of Minnesota
University of Missouri
University of New Hampshire
University of North Carolina – Charlotte
University of Northern Iowa
University of Notre Dame
University of Southern California
University of Tennessee Knoxville
University of Toledo
University of Wisconsin-Madison
University of Wisconsin System
Washington State Community College
Youngstown State University
Zane State College
 
###
			
				
					Press Contact
					Contacts: Meghan Dubyak/Lauren Kulik
202-224-3978",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.brown.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/brown-inhofe-legislation-benefiting-nearly-100000-american-airline-employees-heads-to-presidents-desk,"Brown, Inhofe Legislation Benefiting Nearly 100,000 American Airline Employees Heads to President's Desk",2014-12-14,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,OH,Sherrod Brown,B000944,www.brown.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Legislation Enables Employees to Roll Payouts from Bankruptcy Settlement into IRA Accounts
				
			
			Sunday, December 14, 2014
            
	
			
			WASHINGTON, D.C. – Legislation sponsored by U.S. Sens. Sherrod Brown (D-OH) and James Inhofe (R-OK) that would enable nearly 100,000 American Airline employees who received lump sum settlements as part of the airline’s 2011 bankruptcy to roll those awards into individual retirement accounts (IRA) is headed to the President’s desk for signature. Without a legislative fix, nearly 10,000 Ohio workers would be ineligible for the same tax benefits on savings plans that workers at United, Delta, Northwest, and U.S. Airways received.
“This is great news for the nearly 100,000 American Airlines employees who could have lost a significant portion of their retirement savings had action not been taken,” Brown said. “American Airlines employees should have the same deal as everyone else. This law ensures that. I thank Sen. Inhofe for his work on this important bill.”
The Brown and Inhofe legislation would amend the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 to afford American Airline employees the same tax treatment provided to employees of other domestic airlines. Under the Act, only airline employees whose company declared bankruptcy prior to 2007 are eligible to roll up to 90 percent of their settlement into an IRA.
###
			
				
					Press Contact
					Meghan Dubyak/Ben Famous
(202) 224-3978",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.portman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=527ea506-4fbe-423c-876d-9ee91c8048a2,Portman Statement on Spending Package,2014-12-13,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,OH,Rob Portman,P000449,www.portman.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Rob Portman (R-Ohio), a member of the Senate Budget and Finance Committees, released the following statement on his vote against the Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations Act of 2015:
“While I appreciate the hard work by colleagues to put this package together, it does not make the tough decisions necessary to restore fiscal responsibility and get our economy back on the right track.
“As I have noted before, I oppose the budget gimmicks called ChIMPS, or Changes in Mandatory Programs.  These gimmicks allow Congress to count artificial offsets against new spending, thus circumventing the spending caps by about $19 billion. 
“Moreover, these large ‘cromnibus’ bills are the wrong way to legislate and lead to last minute, haphazard bills.  Rather than implementing spending priorities through a 1,764-page ‘cromnibus’ bill that lawmakers have only had a few days to read – with no amendments allowed – Congress must get back to regular order, including passing individual appropriations bills based on a budget and with an open amendment process.
“I am pleased that the bill prioritizes funding for several projects important to Ohio workers and our national security, including the American Centrifuge Project in Piketon to develop our nation’s only domestic capability for enriching uranium crucial to our national security; the ongoing decommissioning and decontamination work at the former Portsmouth Gaseous Diffusion Plant; the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative which is a crucial tool for combating harmful algal blooms and for local protection and restoration efforts on Lake Erie; funding for improvements at our nation’s ports and harbors, which are suffering from insufficient dredging; funding for hospitals treating patients with Ebola; and the Lima tank plant, which plays a unique role in contributing to our national security as the only producer of the Abrams tank.”
Portman has spent years working with the Administration to support the unique national security capabilities of the American Centrifuge Project in Piketon. He also continues to work to prevent layoffs associated with environmental cleanup activities in Piketon and recently urged Department of Energy (DOE) Secretary Ernest Moniz to work with Senate and House Appropriators on the necessary funding. In a letter to Secretary Moniz, Portman urged the Administration to fulfill its 2010 commitment for an accelerated cleanup of the site that completes the project by 2024.
Portman is an original cosponsor of the Harbor Maintenance Act, which boosts funding for ports, harbors, and channels by requiring the Harbor Maintenance Tax to be used for its intended purposes. Portman ensured that the 2012 transportation bill signed into law by the President included a provision pushing for proper use of the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund.  Portman then followed-up on this legislative success by joining a bipartisan letter to OMB requesting more appropriate funding for America’s waterways system.
Portman has also introduced legislation to allocate funds to support the establishment of regional designated hospitals that can provide specialized care for Ebola patients in an isolated setting. Provisions of his bill were included in the Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations Act of 2015.
Additionally, Portman has worked for funding for the Abrams tank plant in Lima. He recently urged the Chairs and Ranking Members of the U.S. Senate Committee on Appropriations to ensure that the nation’s tank industrial base is not needlessly jeopardized. Text of the letter can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.portman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=854325bd-720b-4d36-87f3-2b9d3e46af4b,Portman Announces FY2015 Funding for Abrams Tanks at Lima's JSMC,2014-12-13,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,OH,Rob Portman,P000449,www.portman.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Rob Portman (R-Ohio) released the following statement regarding the Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations Act of 2015 which includes $120 million in additional funding for the Abrams tank program at the Joint Systems Manufacturing Center (JSMC) in Lima, Ohio:
“I am pleased that the appropriations bill averts unnecessary risk to the Lima Tank Plant that would threaten our national security and, at the same time, saves taxpayer dollars in the long-run. As I have continued to urge my colleagues, the Lima plant plays a unique role in contributing to our national security as the only producer of the Abrams tank. Given that the Army has said it will continue to need this capability in the coming years, it is essential that we keep this critical defense capability in place.”
Recently, Portman sent a letter to the Chairs and Ranking Members of the U.S. Senate Committee on Appropriations prior to the final consideration of the Fiscal Year 2015 appropriations bill urging them to ensure that the nation’s tank industrial base is not needlessly jeopardized.
Text of the letter can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://gibbs.house.gov/columns/december-12th-2014,"December 12th, 2014",2014-12-12,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,OH,Bob Gibbs,G000563,gibbs.house.gov,,,legacy,"This week, the House passed the bipartisan Consolidated and Furthering Continuing Appropriations Act, 2015 to keep the government running. The Omnibus Appropriations bill contains many important priorities that will protect jobs, stop wasteful spending, rein in government overreach, and bolster our national security efforts. This appropriations measure provides the House and new Republican Senate the opportunity to take up important priorities like the President’s immigration executive actions and defunding Obamacare next Congress rather than challenging the Harry Reid-controlled Senate.
This year’s Omnibus appropriations bill follows suit with last year’s bipartisan agreement; resulting in a reduction of overall discretionary spending. Although, the Senate never passed a single House Appropriations bill, the House Appropriations Committee was able to approve and prioritize 11 appropriations bills for this year. Ideally, appropriations would be passed through regular order each year. This past summer, the House passed eight appropriations bills under regular order, which were never taken up in the Senate.
Throughout my time in Congress, I have worked to stop the EPA’s overreach of day-to-day practices of farmers and small businesses. This bill would cut funding for the EPA for the fifth consecutive year and reduce its staffing levels to the lowest level since 1989. 
Although I was disappointed the House-passed language that would stop the harmful proposed EPA rule, designed to redefine jurisdictional waters under the Clean Water Act, was not included in the final package, an important provision to protect farmers from overreaching Clean Water Act regulations was included. The Army Corps of Engineers has the intent to change the definition of “fill material” which would hurt many industries across the country.
Since the inexcusable treatment of our nation’s veterans was uncovered, we have made important reforms to the Veterans Affairs system including their healthcare options. This bill would deliver a 21st-century health care system for our veterans and their families. This bill includes provisions that would address the VA’s goal of ending the disability claims backlog by the end of 2015 and increase oversight efforts by over $5 million from last year’s level.  This increase will provide the necessary resources to ensure our veterans have the best available patient care.   
The 2015 Omnibus bill would also reduce funding for the IRS by $345 million below its Fiscal Year 2008 level.  This reduction would prohibit funds for the IRS to target groups based on their political beliefs and will ensure that the White House does not have the funds to order the IRS to determine the tax-exempt status of an organization. Every American should be able to exercise their First Amendment rights without unwarranted scrutiny from government agencies.
While this bill is not perfect, it keeps us on track towards a balanced budget and a stronger economy. The measure passed will cut discretionary spending for Fiscal Year 2015 and save taxpayers $2.1 trillion over ten years. The funding package had bipartisan support, and each dollar spent reflects bipartisan priorities to get Americans back to work. By fulfilling our Constitutional duty to responsibly fund the government, Americans will have more certainty as we head into the New Year.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://gibbs.house.gov/press-release/congressman-gibbs-announces-service-academy-nominations,Congressman Gibbs Announces Service Academy Nominations,2014-12-12,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,OH,Bob Gibbs,G000563,gibbs.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.—Congressman Gibbs announced the nomination of seven students to the United States Service Academies:
Students must be nominated by their Member of Congress in order to qualify for acceptance into the U.S. Service Academy. Representative Gibbs released the following statement, including the names of those students who were nominated to the service academies. 
“I am proud to nominate these outstanding students to the U.S. Service Academies for 2015. The desire and dedication these exceptional students have to serve their country is inspiring to us all. I commend their patriotism and wish them the best of luck throughout the application process.”
The class of 2019 nominees is as follows:
Hope Balser: Avon, Ohio -- Air Force Academy, Naval Academy, Military Academy at West Point
Luke Earnest: Mt. Vernon, Ohio -- Air Force Academy, Naval Academy, Military Academy at West Point
Matthew Finely: Dover, Ohio -- Air Force Academy, Naval Academy
Victoria Meyer: Columbia Station, Ohio -- Air Force Academy, Naval Academy
Josiah Riley: Minerva, Ohio -- Air Force Academy
Jakob Siegfried: Medina, Ohio -- Military Academy at West Point
Joshua Weber: Loudonville, Ohio -- Air Force Academy, Naval Academy, Merchant Marines
#   #   #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://stivers.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398482,Guide to Life: How to get help from your lawmakers,2014-12-12,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,OH,Steve Stivers,S001187,stivers.house.gov,,,legacy,"Lawmakers sometimes get a bad rap for not doing what their constituents want. But, even if you disagree with their politics or policies, you might find them helpful at times.
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      Lawmakers sometimes get a bad rap for not doing what their constituents want. But, even if you disagree with their politics or policies, you might find them helpful at times.Need a passport application expedited? Want to book a tour of the U.S. Capitol? Or maybe you would like a letter from the president for a special occasion? Such efforts don’t necessarily make headlines, but they represent what lawmakers — on both the federal and the state levels — pursue for constituents outside the public eye. Many lawmakers, in fact, receive a daily stream of letters, phone calls and email from constituents seeking help or advice. “We have a wide range with the number of constituents that come in, and we try to treat all of the caseloads with the same urgency,” said U.S. Rep. Joyce Beatty, D-Jefferson Township. A constituent once asked Beatty to help him obtain more than $10,000 that the Internal Revenue Service owed him for tax returns, she said; the follow-up took a couple of months, but she got him the money he deserved. To make themselves more accessible, Beatty and U.S. Rep. Steve Stivers, R-Upper Arlington, rely on telephone town halls to communicate from outside the district. Stivers began offering such town halls after taking office in 2011, conducting them in the evenings after dinner — a more convenient time for constituents. “We try to make sure we stay in front of people because, if I’m going to represent people, I have to be accessible to them,” he said. Much like their federal counterparts, state lawmakers also receive feedback through calls, email and social media — but often about a state, county or city concern. State Rep. Cheryl Grossman, R-Grove City, fields about 100 questions a week. Collectively, the questions help her gauge the concerns of constituents — such as tax valuations in Franklin County, water quality, the state of Medicaid and the controversy surrounding Ohio State University marching-band director Jonathan Waters. “Even if it’s not directly in my district, sometimes we still end up with inquiries,” Grossman said. “It is important to me that, when people take the time to call, we always, always respond and try to help them in the ways we can.” Because the enactment of legislation requires time, debate and several drafts, Rep. Michael Stinziano, D-Columbus, often works to accommodate constituents in more expedient ways, he said. For a constituent with a complaint about the accessibility of town-meeting records, Stinziano said, he helped obtain the records through a rule change instead of an overhaul of existing legislation. After a deaf Cleveland resident, Richard Simko, reached out to Stinziano, the representative met with him and his translator to talk about changes regarding the qualifications of translators used in Ohio hospitals and doctors’ offices. Certified translators for deaf people in medical offices aren’t required by law, so family members — often without adequate medical training — try to explain medical terminology to deaf patients, Simko explained by phone through a translator. With his staff, Stinziano is working with Simko on language for possible legislation that would help. The bill might be acted upon in the new year, with other lawmakers signing on. “I’m very satisfied,” Simko said. “He (Stinziano) not only heard me but said he could see what the law says and what he can do.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.brown.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/brown-announces-legislation-that-would-help-keep-asian-carp-out-of-great-lakes,Brown Announces Legislation that Would Help Keep Asian Carp Out of Great Lakes,2014-12-12,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,OH,Sherrod Brown,B000944,www.brown.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Guarding Our Great Lakes Act Would Promote Collaborative Water Quality and Flood Mitigation Projects
				
			
			Friday, December 12, 2014
            
	
			
			WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-OH) cosponsored legislation to help keep Asian carp out of the Great Lakes. The Guarding Our Great Lakes Act would prescribe collaboration between the Great Lakes Interagency Task Force (IATF) – a collection of 11 U.S. Cabinet and federal agency heads, led by the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) – and state and local agencies to plan and implement water quality and flood mitigation projects. The bill would also implement federal invasive species control measures at the Brandon Road Lock and Dam in Joliet, IL – which, due to its location south of the Chicago Area Waterway System (CAWS), serves as the single entryway for any species moving upstream toward the Great Lakes.
“Asian carp are a serious threat to Lake Erie and the Ohio industries that rely on the lake,” Brown said. “That’s why we need to be aggressive in finding solutions that would protect the Great Lakes from the threat of invasive species. This bill would help ensure that Lake Erie’s ecosystems – and our region’s economic development – are not jeopardized by an influx of Asian carp.”
Brown continues to fight for the protection of Lake Erie from invasive species like Asian Carp. In July 2014, Brown and more than a dozen Great Lakes senators sent a letter to John Goss, Director of the White House Council on Environmental Quality Asian Carp, expressing their continued commitment to practical, immediate solutions to the threat of Asian carp and other invasive species to the Great Lakes and Mississippi River basin.
Also in July, following a hearing of the Senate Committee on Environment & Public Works (EPW), Brown urged Congress to pass bipartisan legislation which is aimed at preserving the Great Lakes and bolstering economic growth throughout the Great Lakes region. Brown is the cosponsor of the Great Lakes Ecological and Economic Protection Act (GLEEPA), which the EPW Committee considered today. GLEEPA would protect the Great Lakes—and the millions of jobs they support—from a variety of ecological threats and invasive species like Asian carp. It would accomplish this by fully funding the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI).
Earlier this year, Brown helped secure more than $300 million in bipartisan Omnibus Bill funds for the GLRI. In May, Congress passed a critical water infrastructure bill that includes an amendment introduced by Brown that would help prevent the invasion of Asian carp into the Ohio and Upper Mississippi River Basins.
 
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					Press Contact
					Contacts: Meghan Dubyak/Lauren Kulik
202-224-3978",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.brown.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/brown-will-lead-democrats-on-powerful-senate-banking-committee,Brown Will Lead Democrats on Powerful Senate Banking Committee,2014-12-12,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,OH,Sherrod Brown,B000944,www.brown.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Friday, December 12, 2014
            
	
			
			WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-OH) will serve as the lead Democrat – or Ranking Member – of the Senate Banking Committee when the 114th Congress convenes in January. The Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs has jurisdiction over a wide range of policy matters including banking, insurance, housing, capital markets, securities, urban development and mass transit, international trade and financing, and economic policy.
“From checking accounts and home loans to public transportation and economic development, the Banking Committee affects Ohioans in many ways,” Brown said. “This committee is about ensuring a fair set of rules for all financial institutions while protecting taxpayers and consumers. Serving as Ranking Member will allow me to continue to fight for Ohio consumers, Ohio jobs, and Ohio economic development and for our state’s financial institutions and their customers. We must ensure transparency and accountability for Wall Street and access to credit on fair terms for Main Street.”
“We are pleased that Senate leadership has selected Senator Brown to be the Ranking Member of the important Senate Banking Committee,” Mike Adelman, President & CEO of The Ohio Bankers League, said. “Senator Brown has always been accessible and understands the crucial role Ohio banks play in economic development and job growth. We look forward to continuing our working relationship with Senator Brown as he takes on more responsibility in Washington.”
“Senator Brown has been a great supporter of credit unions and clearly understands the important role Ohio’s cooperative financial institutions play in the lives of their three million members,” Paul Mercer, President of the Ohio Credit Union League, said.. “We are confident that Senator Brown will keep the best interests of Ohioans in mind as he assumes this leadership position of one of the most influential Congressional committees.” 
“We are very excited that Senator Brown was chosen for this critically important position,” Bill Faith, Executive Director of Coalition on Homeless and Housing in Ohio (COHHIO), said. “He has such a strong track record of fighting for housing that is safe and affordable for the lowest-income Americans, standing up for consumer protections against predatory lenders and Wall Street, and helping homeowners avoid foreclosure.  He will make Ohio proud in his new leadership role on this prestigious committee.”
Ohio is home to multiple financial institutions that provide jobs and services, including access to credit and insurance, for countless American consumers and small businesses.
 
Banks: Ohio has 215 FDIC-insured banks with more than $2 trillion in bank assets – ranking among the top in the nation – including top regional banks Fifth Third Bank in Cincinnati, KeyCorp in Cleveland, and Huntington Bank in Columbus.
Credit Unions: Ohio has approximately 400 credit unions, and its cooperative institutions serve some three million members
Insurance Companies: More than 250 insurance companies are domiciled in Ohio, including three of the top 25 – Progressive Insurance in Cleveland, Nationwide Insurance in Columbus, and Cincinnati Financial Group. Columbus is second only to Hartford, Connecticut in concentration of insurance jobs.
 
For the last four years, Brown has served as the Chair of Banking Subcommittee on Financial Institutions and Consumer Protections. He also served as a previous chair of its Subcommittee on Economic Policy.
			
				
					Press Contact
					Meghan Dubyak/Ben Famous
(202) 224-3978",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.portman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/columns?ID=6081db8a-4254-49db-a4cb-cb2bb5a5d296,Weekly Column: Improving Mental Healthcare for Our Veterans,2014-12-12,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,OH,Rob Portman,P000449,www.portman.senate.gov,,,legacy,"When our men and women in uniform come home from overseas, they deserve the best possible medical care. Unfortunately, they haven’t always been getting it. And while deficiencies in treating physical wounds have been well documented, there has been far less of a focus on the invisible wounds of war—Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Traumatic Brain Injuries, and other mental health conditions. Untreated, these disorders can cost lives, thousands of miles from the battlefield.                The statistics are startling. Since 2001, more active-duty U.S. service personnel have committed suicide than have been killed in Afghanistan. Many more struggle with depression or substance abuse, driven by the ongoing effects of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. We must do more to help.
The Department of Defense has committed to improving how we address these hidden wounds of war, and it has made some strides in improving the way it handles mental health issues. Still, gaps remain, and there is important work left to be done.
For instance, while members of the Armed Forces undergo a series of extensive physical assessments, they do not undergo comparable mental health assessments. This lapse makes identifying, assessing, tracking, and treating servicemembers suffering from mental health conditions much more difficult.
To address these gaps, I introduced the Medical Evaluation Parity for Servicemembers (MEPS) Act with my colleague Senator Rockefeller. This legislation represents an important step toward a more comprehensive and effective approach to mental health that covers servicemembers throughout the duration of their service as well as during their transition to civilian life. This legislation, which has been endorsed by over 40 veterans’ service organizations and health advocacy groups—including the Veterans of Foreign Wars, National Military Family Association, the National Guard Association of the United States, and the American Psychological Association—improves the way the military identifies and assesses mental health issues by instituting mental health assessments for both incoming recruits and servicemembers separating from active duty. The entry screening would serve as a baseline for future mental health assessments throughout servicemembers’ careers, while the exit screening would provide more accurate information on their mental health condition as they transition to civilian life. Once implemented, these steps would help avoid so many mental health problems our servicemembers face.
I’m happy to report that the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that passed the Senate this week contained a provision, based on my legislation, that requires the Defense Department to examine the feasibility of providing mental health screenings prior to enlistment and discharge from service. This requirement, while an important first step, isn’t the end of our efforts to provide comprehensive mental healthcare for our service personnel. I will continue to work with Republicans and Democrats in Congress to enact the full MEPS legislation and to support new and innovative approaches to this difficult problem.
Our men and women in uniform have left behind their families, their jobs, and their lives to keep us safe. When they return, they deserve the very best medical care we can provide, no matter what the nature of their injuries.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.portman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=45494b59-0043-46a2-995a-51d76c0997bb,"Portman, Turner Praise NDAA Provision Strengthening Air Force Research Laboratory",2014-12-12,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,OH,Rob Portman,P000449,www.portman.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Rob Portman (R-Ohio) and Congressman Mike Turner (R-OH-10) welcomed the passage of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) which contained a provision improving the Air Force Research Laboratory’s (AFRL) hiring authority.
“I’m glad this provision will now become law,” said Portman. “We need to be able to continue to attract STEM graduates into AFRL and our other defense labs, and being able to expose them to work at the labs while still students will be an important hiring tool.”
“This important initiative will help draw highly skilled students into AFRL’s innovative labs and increase the recruiting potential of one of Wright-Patterson’s greatest assets,"" said Turner. ""I was honored to work closely with the Dayton Development Coalition to identify the need for engaging STEM students early and work closely with Senator Portman to find and help champion a legislative solution.”
The language gives AFRL, located at Wright Patterson Air Force Base (WPAFB), increased authority to hire science, technology, engineering, and math bachelor’s and master’s degree students directly into the lab. This legislative language will allow the lab to attract promising candidates while still students and hire them in a temporary position with the opportunity for follow-on employment."" 
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https://www.portman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=519b75f3-5367-40ce-bf32-d9840a83cca8,Provision to Modernize Mansfield and Youngstown Aircraft Headed to the President for Signature,2014-12-12,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,OH,Rob Portman,P000449,www.portman.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. – Today the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) passed the Senate and is now headed to the President for signature. The bill includes language requiring modernization of the C-130 fleet in the Air Force Reserve and Air National Guard. 
Portman co-sponsored an amendment to the Senate NDAA with U.S. Senator Jon Tester (D-MT) that would allow the Air Force to use alternative programs and funding in addition to the Avionics Modernization Program (AMP) to modernize the C-130 aircraft fleet.  The language included in the conference bill requires the Air Force to move forward with the AMP program while permitting the service to make near-term airspace compliance improvements. 
“I’m pleased this provision will now become law,” said Portman. “We must ensure we keep these planes compliant with upcoming airspace changes, but we can’t lose sight of the very real needs the aircraft fleet has for more robust modernization. It’s important we keep the Air Force on track to ensure these planes in the Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve are mission capable for decades into the future.” 
In October, Portman penned an op-ed in the Youngstown Vindicator outlining the issues facing the C-130 fleet, including the following excerpt:
“The Air Force had a production-ready program to address many of [the aircraft’s] shortcomings. Unfortunately, similar to their fielding plan that leaves the Reserve and National Guard getting the short straw, the Air Force has been trying to cancel that upgrade program and only focus on the bare necessities for the aircraft — chiefly, making sure they have some of the tools necessary to fly in the national airspace that will be required in 2020. This plan is woefully inadequate to address the needs of the aircraft our airmen are flying every day and should not be the Band-Aid that allows us to put our head in the sand for another decade regarding the condition of our C-130 fleet as we call on our Reserve and National Guard Airmen to continue to put their lives on the line in old aircraft. Airspace compliance upgrades must be done, but should be integrated as part of longer-term improvements. This integration up front will save money, avoiding concurrent and potentially nonstandardized modifications, while ensuring we don’t fail to see the forest through the trees.”
In May, Portman pressed the Senate Armed Services Committee in a letter on the need for this C-130 modernization and securing important language in the Senate NDAA to help the C-130 fleets located in Mansfield and Youngstown.
 
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https://www.portman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=af7b51d8-220d-485d-99e8-6f6d217675d3,Portman Statement on Passage of Funding for Abrams Tank at Lima's JSMC,2014-12-12,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,OH,Rob Portman,P000449,www.portman.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Rob Portman (R-Ohio) released the following statement today regarding the passage of the FY2015 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) containing $120 million in additional funding for the Abrams tank program at the Joint Systems Manufacturing Center (JSMC) in Lima, Ohio:
“I am pleased we passed the Defense Authorization which includes this critical funding to avert the unnecessary risk placed on the Abrams industrial base. As the nation’s only producer of the Abrams tank, the Lima plant plays an important role in contributing to our national security. We must ensure this critical defense capability is available for the Army when they say they need it in a few years. A combination of production for both domestic and foreign use continues to be the right path forward.”
 
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https://www.portman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=f6cb561e-ad4e-4b10-9625-52297785b92b,Portman Provision in NDAA to Improve Military Mental Health Evaluations for Servicemembers Headed to President for Signature,2014-12-12,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,OH,Rob Portman,P000449,www.portman.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. – Today the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) passed the Senate and is now headed to the President for signature.  The bill includes language requiring the Defense Department to examine the feasibility of providing mental health screenings for servicemembers prior to enlistment and discharge from service – part of an amendment U.S. Senator Rob Portman (R-Ohio) had filed to the Senate NDAA bill. 
Portman filed the Medical Evaluation Parity for Servicemembers (MEPS) Act, legislation he introduced with Senator Jay Rockefeller (D-WV) earlier this year, as an amendment to the NDAA. Among other things, this bipartisan legislation would improve the way the military identifies and assesses mental health issues. It would also institute mental health assessments for both incoming recruits and servicemembers separating from active duty, and the bill requires the Department of Defense (DoD) to examine the feasibility of providing mental health assessments to servicemembers entering and leaving service. The entry screening would serve as a baseline for future mental health assessments throughout servicemembers’ careers, while the exit screening would provide more accurate information on their mental health condition as they transition to civilian life.
“I am pleased that this language requiring DoD to examine the feasibility of providing mental health assessments to servicemembers entering and leaving service is now headed to the President for signature,” said Portman. “This provision, along with the other requirements included in a thorough study of the military’s programs to address mental health and Traumatic Brain Injuries that DoD must deliver to Congress, is an important step towards ensuring our servicemembers receive the care they deserve. We must promote a more comprehensive and holistic approach to mental health care in the military that improves upon the current system to deliver the best care possible. The provisions in this bill will help focus the military’s efforts to pursue these goals and serve as the foundation for future efforts on this issue. I look forward to building upon this success in the next Congress.”
 
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https://www.portman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=fe50ac60-1143-4609-ac82-ab828b25f7f9,"Portman, Shaheen Bill to Reform Efficiency Standard Headed to the President for Signature",2014-12-12,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,OH,Rob Portman,P000449,www.portman.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Rob Portman (R-OH) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) announced that their bill which makes technical corrections to External Power Supply (EPS) efficiency standards has passed the Senate and is now headed to the President for signature. The bipartisan EPS Service Parts Act of 2014 extends current energy efficiency standards so manufacturers can continue to produce, distribute and service energy efficient EPS for older, out of production products. By allowing continued production of older EPS spare parts to service older devices to continue, Shaheen and Portman’s bill will help save manufacturers money and spare consumers additional costs. The legislation also includes a reporting requirement to ensure this exemption is not abused for the remainder of the five-year efficiency standard cycle.  
“This commonsense regulatory reform measure will lower costs for both consumers and manufacturers and I’m pleased it’s now headed to the President for signature,” Portman stated.
“U.S. manufacturers and consumers shouldn’t have to bear the cost of a regulatory oversight,” Shaheen said. “With our bipartisan proposal headed to the President for his signature, both businesses and consumers will be saving money without compromising the benefits of energy efficiency.”
“This bill's passage, by simply fixing an unintended legal glitch, will save US companies hundreds of millions of dollars, and benefit consumers by allowing them to continue to use existing EPS charging for their laptops, desktops, tablets, networking products and mobile phones in ways that save energy and help the environment,"" said Chris Hankin, Senior Director for Environment and Sustainability at the Information Technology Industry Council (ITI), an advocacy organization which represents 60 of the world¹s leading technology companies. ""ITI and its member companies wish to thank Senators Portman and Shaheen for their leadership in helping secure its timely enactment.""
This proposal enjoys the support of EPS manufacturers, efficiency advocates and a broad coalition of organizations, including the Alliance to Save Energy (ASE), the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE), the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM), the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA), the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM), the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA), and the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC).
 
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http://billjohnson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398348,Bill Johnson Statement on Passage of Omnibus Appropriations Bill,2014-12-11,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,OH,Bill Johnson,J000292,billjohnson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Representative Bill Johnson (R-Marietta) issued the following statement after voting to pass H.R. 83 (the Omnibus Appropriations Bill), legislation that fully funds 11 of 12 annual Appropriations bills through September 30, 2015.  
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      Representative Bill Johnson (R-Marietta) issued the following statement after voting to pass H.R. 83 (the Omnibus Appropriations Bill), legislation that fully funds 11 of 12 annual Appropriations bills through September 30, 2015.  Notably, H.R. 83 only funds the Department of Homeland Security through February 27, 2015, which provides Republicans a chance to respond to President Obama’s executive order on amnesty after the new Republican-controlled Senate takes office in January:
“The bipartisan legislation that passed the House today represents the reality of divided government, takes steps toward a more fiscally responsible government, and establishes the lowest spending level in five years.   It provides: no new funding for Obamacare; cuts the Independent Payment Advisory Board (IPAB) by $10 million; provides no funding for the Administration’s “Race to the Top” program – one of President Obama’s primary initiatives to coerce states into adopting Common Core; contains additional, strong pro-life provisions; protects all Americans’ Second Amendment rights; cuts funding for the IRS by $345.6 million – one of the agencies tasked with implementing President Obama’s health care law; and, addresses many more priorities of the hard-working taxpayers that sent us here” Bill Johnson said.
“Very importantly to those across Eastern and Southeastern Ohio, the legislation cuts the EPA by $60 million.  This is the fifth year in a row the EPA budget has been reduced, and it brings EPA total staffing to its lowest level since 1989.  The EPA has put a stranglehold on the coal industry through its crippling, and job-killing regulations.  Any opportunity to cut the EPA’s budget and rein them in is a win for Ohioans.  This legislation would also protect farmers from the EPA’s Clean Water Act by preventing the Army Corps from regulating farm ponds and irrigation ditches.  Additionally, this legislation supports our troops in providing them with a well-earned pay raise, and provides the Department of Defense the funding it needs to continue to combat ISIL and other global threats to our security. 
“Congress will be better suited to address the President’s blatant executive overreach on amnesty early next year when the new Republican-led Senate is sworn in, and Harry Reid is no longer Senate Majority Leader and chief obstructionist.  
 “By no means is this bill perfect; however, as Thomas Jefferson famously said, “the ground of liberty is to be gained by inches,” and this responsible legislation gets America moving in the right direction as we enter 2015.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://latta.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=397904,"Lattas Propane Bill Clears Senate, Heads to Presidents Desk",2014-12-11,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,OH,Robert Latta,L000566,latta.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Bob Latta (R-OH), member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee’s Energy and Power Subcommittee, today released the following statement applauding the U.S. Senate’s passage of H.R. 5705, the Propane Education and Research Enhancement Act, bipartisan legislation he sponsored with Congressman Tim Walz (D-MN) to address some of the winter heating challenges experienced in Ohio and throughout the Midwest last year. The legislation is headed to the President’s desk for his signature. 
“During the winter months, heat is a matter of survival not a matter of convenience,” said Latta. “Last year, we were faced with propane shortages that threatened the lives and livelihoods of many living in Ohio and throughout the Midwest. The Propane Education and Research Enhancement Act addresses some of the challenges experienced last winter in an effort to avoid another disaster. I applaud the Senate for taking swift action on this legislation and encourage the President to expeditiously sign it into law.” 
The Propane Education and Research Enhancement Act of 2014 clarifies Congress’ intent in the Propane Education and Research Act (PERA), requiring the Department of Commerce to use proper data to calculate consumer prices. It would also allow the Propane Education and Research Council to improve training for distributors and consumers to help mitigate the negative effects of propane prices spikes.
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http://renacci.house.gov/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=390D4FA1-569B-4C71-98F9-479FCFDCF114,Renacci Votes In Favor Of Long-Term Measure To Provide Certainty To Americans,2014-12-11,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,OH,Jim Renacci,R000586,renacci.house.gov,,,legacy,"Rep. Jim Renacci (OH-16) today released below statement after voting in favor of the FY 2015 Appropriations Omnibus Bill:
“Though this resolution is far from perfect, it includes several items that are not only good for Northeast Ohioans, but Americans everywhere,” said Renacci. “For example, it benefits Northeast Ohioans by providing funding for the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative and an anti-heroin task force to combat the growing problem in our region and across the country. The measure reduces funding for the IRS and EPA, and provides funding to address the VA backlog and appeals. I was also proud to support a pay raise for military service members. Additionally, this measure provides the House and new Republican Senate an opportunity to address the President’s executive action on immigration by only funding the Department of Homeland Security for 90 days. I was pleased to see Congress come together to find a bipartisan, long-term solution that will provide the certainty Americans need to plan for their futures.”
Below are key provisions of note within the measure:
 
Provides funding for the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative 
Adds funding for an anti-heroin task force 
Reduces funding for the IRS
Provides the next Congress an opportunity to address the President’s executive action on immigration by only funding the Department of Homeland Security for 90 days
Eliminates new funding for the President’s health care law, and cuts IPAB funding by $10 million
Prevents taxpayer bailout of the risk corridor program within the President’s health care law
Requires OIG to report to Congress on improper payments of Obamacare subsidies
Cuts funding for the EPA for the 5th straight year
Pay raise for military service members
Provides funding to address the VA backlog and appeals
Improves U.S. manufacturing competitiveness
Prohibits funding to be used to transfer GITMO detainees
Reduces government overreach and bureaucratic red tape in Dodd-Frank
Protects all existing pro-life provisions
Maintains all important 2nd amendment rights provisions
Protects farmers from overreaching regulations within the Clean Water Act",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://renacci.house.gov/index.cfm/weekly-column?ContentRecord_id=1C8B4E2A-FDF6-4A4B-A890-6723E8FF88B4,Renacci Report: We Must Invest In Our Vital Infrastructure,2014-12-11,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,OH,Jim Renacci,R000586,renacci.house.gov,,,legacy,"Last year, Ohio’s deteriorating roads cost drivers over $1.6 million in repairs and operating costs, or about $212 per driver. Subpar and sometimes dangerous road conditions are not isolated to Ohio - they’re quickly becoming a widespread problem throughout the country. Unless action is taken to reinvest in our failing infrastructure, the long-term cost to our economy and the taxpayers will be devastating.
Maintenance of our highway system falls jointly on the states and the federal government, with about 80 percent of highway funding coming from the federally administered Highway Trust Fund. Currently, the Trust Fund allocates about $50 billion annually to the states for upkeep of the system. This annual allotment has two major problems: we’re spending more money than the Trust Fund is bringing in, and we’re not spending enough to keep our infrastructure from crumbling. The funding situation for the Highway Trust Fund became dire earlier this year when Congress was forced to act to temporarily infuse the Fund with money from other sources. This temporary infusion simply kicks the can down the road, only sustaining the Fund until May of 2015, when we will again have to act to ensure it remains solvent.
Funding for the Highway Trust Fund comes from several sources designed as user-fees, including fees on large vehicles and various fuels. The goal of this structure is to ensure that those who receive the benefits of the highway system are also the ones who pay to maintain it. The most well-known funding mechanism is the federal “gas tax.” Originally implemented at just 1 cent per gallon in 1932, it was last increased in 1993 from 14.1 to 18.4 cents per gallon. However, it is a dwindling funding source for many reasons. First, because it isn’t indexed, the tax only buys about 63 percent of the materials and labor it did per dollar in 1993. Second, as vehicles become more and more efficient, or switch to alternative fuel sources, the gas tax collects less and less money per mile driven. These factors have contributed significantly to the looming insolvency of the Trust Fund.
For all of these reasons, the Highway Trust Fund is threatened and in desperate need of modernization. That is why I am working to provide long-term certainty and predictability to our highway funding system. If we want to make progress on improving our infrastructure, Congress must ensure construction companies, states, municipalities, and towns have the confidence they need to plan, invest, and hire for multi-year projects.
To this end, I have been working with colleagues on both sides of the aisle to develop solutions within a framework we can all agree on. This framework requires any proposal to provide immediate and guaranteed funding for the Highway Trust Fund for a minimum of the next six years, with a goal of at least ten years. This is absolutely critical to any successful proposal because it will provide the certainty we need to move forward with major construction projects. Next, we must ensure that even after this initial six to ten year funding period, a permanent solution to funding the Trust Fund is in place. Finally, the framework would set into motion a plan that continues the original intent of the Trust Fund’s funding mechanisms; all users of our highway system bear the responsibility of keeping it safe and modern. This guiding principle would ensure highly efficient or alternatively fueled vehicles, which currently utilize the highways without helping to maintain them, join in to appropriately maintain the Trust Fund.
In the coming weeks and months, I will work toward a viable solution for long-term solvency of the Highway Trust Fund. In working with my friends on both sides of the aisle, as well as soliciting input from a range of stakeholders throughout Ohio’s 16th District and the rest of the country, I believe we can restore America’s infrastructure to the shining example that it once was. All solutions for achieving this goal must be on the table and thoroughly examined and all parties must be willing to compromise if we expect to make real progress.
America’s infrastructure is too important to allow it to deteriorate any further. We must act now to ensure our highway system is sustainable. Jobs, the economy, and the American people depend on it.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://stivers.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398471,"Stivers and Bass Introduce Bill to Protect Adopted Children from Exploitation, Abuse",2014-12-11,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,OH,Steve Stivers,S001187,stivers.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON D.C. – Today, Rep. Steve Stivers (R-OH) introduced the Securing American Families Everywhere (SAFE) Kids Act to address the issue of “re-homing,” or the transferring of children into the custody of unvetted strangers without the use of the child welfare system.  Stivers introduced the bipartisan legislation with Rep. Karen Bass (D-CA), co-chair of the Congressional Caucus on Foster Youth.
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      WASHINGTON D.C. – Today, Rep. Steve Stivers (R-OH) introduced the Securing American Families Everywhere (SAFE) Kids Act to address the issue of “re-homing,” or the transferring of children into the custody of unvetted strangers without the use of the child welfare system.  Stivers introduced the bipartisan legislation with Rep. Karen Bass (D-CA), co-chair of the Congressional Caucus on Foster Youth.“As the father of two young kids, the idea of children being treated like goods or property is reprehensible,” said Stivers.  “Our nation must address re-homing and the rampant issues associated with this unnoticed and overlooked practice.  I look forward to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to shed light on re-homing to protect our children.” “Our children are our nation’s most precious resource, and how we treat foster youth and children in the child welfare system speaks directly to our nation’s values,” said Bass. “This commonsense legislation will provide essential insight about the kind of homes where these children are placed. We must make sure that individuals who open their homes to children in the child welfare system are capable and are providing them with a stable and loving environment.” Currently, there are no federal laws in place that prohibit the practice of re-homing, which can open the door to child abuse, neglect, exploitation and an all-around unsafe environment for children. Due to a lack of federal laws regarding re-homing, individuals are currently using online mediums, such as Craigslist, to transfer custody of children.   Stivers legislation is a coordinated and bipartisan effort to require the Comptroller General of the United States to submit a report to Congress within the next two years on our nation’s adoption process and interference in the United States.  The bill also recommends legislation to define adoption in an effort to encourage and facilitate the safe placement of a child with a nurturing family that has been properly vetted by the child-welfare system. Rep. Stivers was first made aware of the practice of re-homing earlier this year when it was discovered that a girl who had been adopted from Haiti by a family in Idaho was transferred to a family in Central Ohio through contact on a Yahoo internet forum.   The SAFE Kids Act is a bipartisan bill co-sponsored by Rep. Karen Bass (D-CA.) ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://stivers.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398481,Post office renamed in honor of veterans,2014-12-11,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,OH,Steve Stivers,S001187,stivers.house.gov,,,legacy,"U.S. Rep. Steve Stivers' legislation to rename two central Ohio U.S. Postal Service branches in memory of fallen soldiers awaits the signature of President Barack Obama.
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      U.S. Rep. Steve Stivers' legislation to rename two central Ohio U.S. Postal Service branches in memory of fallen soldiers awaits the signature of President Barack Obama.Stivers (R-Columbus) introduced a resolution renaming the branch at 4000 Leap Road in Hilliard as the Master Sgt. Shawn T. Hannon, Master Sgt. Jeffrey J. Rieck and Veterans Memorial Post Office Building. A separate resolution renamed the postal facility at 25 S. Oak St. in London as the London Fallen Veterans Memorial Post Office. Sgt. 1st Class Shawn Hannon, 44, of Grove City, and Sgt. 1st Class Jeffrey Rieck, 45, of Columbus, were killed April 4, 2012, in a suicide bombing in Faryab province of Afghanistan. Capt. Nicholas J. Rozanski, 36, of Dublin, also was killed in the attack. They were members of the 37th Infantry Brigade Combat Team of the Ohio Army National Guard.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://wenstrup.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398514,Conservative Reforms Define House-Passed Funding Bill,2014-12-11,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,OH,Brad Wenstrup,W000815,wenstrup.house.gov,,,legacy,"With federal government funding set to expire at midnight on Thursday, the House of Representatives passed legislation with significant reforms to keep the government open through next September. While Representative Brad Wenstrup (R-OH) was disappointed Congress and the public did not have more time to review the legislation, he believes it lays the foundation for  Republicans’ legislative agenda to begin 2015, including blocking President Obama’s executive action on immigration.
“The fight’s not over,” Wenstrup declared. “I’m glad the House has moved to fund the government, but know we are gearing up to fight this President’s unconstitutional executive immigration action. With the newly elected Senate, Congress will speak for the American people and against President Obama’s unprecedented power grab.”
Wenstrup noted provisions significantly reduce IRS budgets, give the military a raise, and cut funding for numerous funds within Obamacare. Also included was Wenstrup’s amendment to eliminate wasteful government printing that passed the House earlier this year. 
“When Nancy Pelosi and Elizabeth Warren oppose the legislation, you know you’re likely doing something right,” Wenstrup observed. The legislation must pass the Senate and be signed by the President before becoming law. NOTE: A list of many conservative reforms and savings found in this legislation can be found here
 
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.brown.senate.gov/newsroom/gallery/photos/sen-browns-constituent-coffee-12-11-14-,Sen. Brown's Constituent Coffee 12-11-14,2014-12-11,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,OH,Sherrod Brown,B000944,www.brown.senate.gov,,,legacy,"If you’re afraid you might be a victim of the Equifax data breach, Senator Brown encourages you to visit the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s website for more information and resources – www.consumerfinance.gov.
  
For information on how to help recovery efforts for recent hurricanes, go to www.fema.gov",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.brown.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/brown-announces-senate-passage-of-bipartisan-legislation-enhancing-personal-savings-through-prized-linked-accounts,Brown Announces Senate Passage of Bipartisan Legislation Enhancing Personal Savings Through Prized-Linked Accounts,2014-12-11,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,OH,Sherrod Brown,B000944,www.brown.senate.gov,,,legacy,"More Than 40 Percent of American Household Lack Savings to Cover Basic Expenses for Three Months
				
			
			Thursday, December 11, 2014
            
	
			
			WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Sens. Sherrod Brown (D-OH) and Jerry Moran (R-KS) announced Senate passage of legislation that incentivizes personal savings through the creation of prized-linked savings (PLS) accounts. Brown and Moran – members of the Senate Economic Mobility Caucus – authored the legislation in Oct. 2013. The bill passed the Senate by unanimous consent.
“Too many families in Ohio – and across the nation – are living paycheck to paycheck,” Brown said. “Between stagnant wages and an insufficient minimum wage, it’s hard for families to prioritize savings. That’s why this legislation is so important. Families should be encouraged and excited to save. This bill accomplishes that and I am proud to have worked with Sen. Moran to get this bill passed.”
“With broad support, Congress has sent to President Obama the American Savings Promotion Act, bipartisan legislation that clears the way for banks and other financial institutions to promote personal savings,” said Sen. Moran, Co-Chair of the Senate Economic Mobility Caucus. “This policy will help American families become more financially secure and upwardly mobile. In passing the American Savings Promotion Act, the House and Senate have shown that good ideas may still have a chance in Washington.”
The American Savings Promotion Act would expand the ability of certain banks, thrifts, and credit unions – which are currently prohibited from participating due to outdated federal law – to offer PLS products. PLS accounts are safe, regulated accounts that incentivize savings by offering account holders the opportunity to win prizes as they accumulate savings.
The legislation comes at a time when more than 40 percent of American households lack enough savings to cover basic expenses for three months. According to the Pew Foundation’s Economic Mobility Project, 71 percent of children born to high-saving but low-income parents move up from the bottom income quintile over one generation. This is compared to only 50 percent of children from similarly low-income households whose parents did not save.
###
			
				
					Press Contact
					Meghan Dubyak/Ben Famous
(202) 224-3978",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.brown.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/brown-inhofe-legislation-benefiting-nearly-100000-american-airline-employees-passes-senate,"Brown, Inhofe Legislation Benefiting Nearly 100,000 American Airline Employees Passes Senate",2014-12-11,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,OH,Sherrod Brown,B000944,www.brown.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Legislation Enables Employees to Roll Payouts from Bankruptcy Settlement into IRA Accounts
				
			
			Thursday, December 11, 2014
            
	
			
			WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Sens. Sherrod Brown (D-OH) and James Inhofe (R-OK) announced Senate passage of legislation that would enable nearly 100,000 American Airline employees who received lump sum settlements as part of the airline’s 2011 bankruptcy to roll those awards into individual retirement accounts (IRA). Without a legislative fix, nearly 10,000 Ohio workers would be ineligible for the same tax benefits on savings plans that workers at United, Delta, Northwest, and U.S. Airways received.
“This bill will prevent nearly 100,000 American Airlines employees from losing a substantial chunk of their hard earned retirement,” Brown said. “These pilots, flight attendants, mechanics, ramp workers, and dispatchers served the flying public with pride and kept us safe during our travel. This legislation ensures that these employees receive the same deal as other employees of airlines that also went through bankruptcy.”
The Brown and Inhofe legislation would amend the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 to afford American Airline employees the same tax treatment provided to employees of other domestic airlines. Under the Act, only airline employees whose company declared bankruptcy prior to 2007 are eligible to roll up to 90 percent of their settlement into an IRA.

###
			
				
					Press Contact
					Meghan Dubyak/Ben Famous
(202) 224-3978",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.brown.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/brown-portman-bill-to-help-ensure-safe-drinking-water-passes-senate,Brown-Portman Bill to Help Ensure Safe Drinking Water Passes Senate,2014-12-11,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,OH,Sherrod Brown,B000944,www.brown.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Thursday, December 11, 2014
            
	
			
			WASHINGTON, D.C. – Legislation authored by U.S. Sens. Sherrod Brown (D-OH) and Rob Portman (R-OH) to promote the safety of drinking water unanimously passed the Senate today. The bill – in response to a high level of microcystin in the Western Lake Erie basin which disrupted the water supply of approximately 500,000 people in Northwest Ohio in early August – must also pass the U.S. House of Representatives before being sent to the President.
“This is a commonsense, bipartisan bill that will ensure Ohioans are confident in the safety of their drinking water,” Brown said. “Our bill will address a void in our current monitoring efforts to protect our water and address potential public health threats.”
“It’s critical that all levels of government work together to determine if our drinking water is safe for human consumption,” Portman stated. “As we continue to work to ensure that Ohioans have access to safe and clean drinking water, the passage of this legislation is an important step toward knowing what is safe and what is not.”
The Safe and Secure Drinking Water Act would direct the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to publish a health advisory and submit reports on the level of microcystins in drinking water that is determined to be safe for human consumption. U.S. Rep. Marcy Kaptur (D-OH-09) introduced the House companion bill.
Microcystin is a byproduct of harmful algal blooms in surface water. Despite requests that state and federal regulators develop standards for microcystins in drinking water, cities and water plant operators currently rely on the World Health Organization’s suggestion of 1 part per billion or less. The EPA has been working on developing a health advisory, but has yet to issue one. This legislation would require EPA to publish a health advisory within 180 days for microcystin levels to be used by drinking water treatment plants and to standardize testing procedures for this toxin.  
###
			
				
					Press Contact
					Meghan Dubyak/Lauren Kulik (Brown) 202-224-3978
Caitlin Conant/Christyn Keyes (Portman): 202-224-5190",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.brown.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/brown-vitter-urge-congressional-leaders-to-remove-provision-in-spending-bill-that-would-allow-for-future-bailouts,"Brown, Vitter Urge Congressional Leaders to Remove Provision in Spending Bill That Would Allow for Future Bailouts",2014-12-11,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,OH,Sherrod Brown,B000944,www.brown.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Thursday, December 11, 2014
            
	
			
			WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Sens. Sherrod Brown (D-OH) and David Vitter (R-LA) sent a letter to leaders in the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate urging the removal of a provision in the year-end spending bill that would repeal a law prohibiting future bailouts.  On Wednesday, Brown released the following statement in reaction to the provisions inclusion in the package:
“This giveaway to Wall Street would open the door to future bailouts funded by American taxpayers,” Brown said. “It’s been just six years since risky financial practices put our economy on the brink of collapse and cost millions of Americans lost jobs, homes, and retirement savings. This provision, originally written by lobbyists, has no place in a must-pass spending bill.”
Following the financial crisis, Congress passed a provision in the Wall Street Reform Act that would end government insurance of risky Wall Street derivatives trading. Section 716 – entitled “Prohibition Against Federal Government Bailouts of Swaps Entities,” and also known as the Lincoln Amendment or the “swaps push-out” provision – prohibits Federal assistance to entities that engage in certain swaps and security-based swaps activities.  While this provision was scheduled to take effect on July 16, 2013, it has still not been implemented.
The year-end spending bill would repeal Section 716.
Brown and Vitter’s letter to House and Senate leadership is as follows.
December 11, 2014
Dear Speaker Boehner, House Minority Leader Pelosi, Senate Majority Leader Reid and Senate Minority Leader McConnell:
We are writing you about the broad bipartisan support for removing section 630 from H.R. 83.  This provision would repeal section 716 of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection (Dodd-Frank) Act.  We urge you to remove this provision from the year-end spending bill.
Section 716, also known as the Lincoln Amendment or the “swaps push-out” provision, prohibits Federal assistance to entities that engage in certain derivatives dealing and speculation.  The problem of “too big to fail” is clearly far from over.  Removing any taxpayer subsidy for risky derivative trades that are unnecessary for normal banking purposes is an important step.
The catastrophic events of the financial crisis demonstrated the risks posed by trading certain types of risky derivatives, and we are concerned that these activities continue to present a threat to financial stability.  Forceful implementation of section 716 is an important first step in ensuring that derivatives activities are conducted outside of the public safety net, where they can be properly supported by private capital instead of a taxpayer-provided backstop.
Yesterday, Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) Vice Chairman Thomas Hoeing pointed out that, “in 2008 we learned the economic consequences of conducting derivatives trading in taxpayer-insured banks. Section 716 of Dodd-Frank is an important step in pushing the trading activity out to where it should be conducted: in the open market, outside of taxpayer-backed commercial banks.”
Former FDIC Chair Sheila Bair has also said that “this activity should be done outside of insured banks and only in non-FDIC insured affiliates. It should not be funded with FDIC insured deposits.”
We agree with them.
If Wall Street banks want to gamble, Congress should force them to pay for their losses, and not put the taxpayers on the hook for another bailout. Congress should not gamble on a possible government shutdown by attempting to tuck this controversial provision into a spending bill without having been considered by the committees of jurisdiction, where it can be subjected to a transparent and vigorous debate.
Thank you for considering our views on this important matter.
###
			
				
					Press Contact
					Contact: Meghan Dubyak/Ben Famous
(202) 224-3978",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.brown.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/with-holidays-approaching-brown-holds-hearing-to-examine-working-conditions-in-chinese-toy-industry,"With Holidays Approaching, Brown Holds Hearing to Examine Working Conditions in Chinese Toy Industry",2014-12-11,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,OH,Sherrod Brown,B000944,www.brown.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Brown – Chair of the Congressional Executive Commission on China – to Examine Efforts to Improve Working Conditions at Factories in China, Where Most Toys Sold in the U.S. Are Manufactured
				
			
			Thursday, December 11, 2014
            
	
			
			WASHINGTON, D.C. – With the Holidays approaching, U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-OH), chair of the Congressional Executive Commission on China (CECC), held a hearing today to examine working conditions at toy factories in China. The vast majority of toys bought and sold in the United States are made in China.
“We’ve seen this story repeated over and over again – American companies moving production to China to take advantage of cheap labor and poor labor enforcement and then reselling these goods back to the U.S.,” Brown said. “Something must be done. We need to be able to tell our children that the person who made theirs toys—perhaps the mother of another child—worked in a good place where she made a decent living.”
Last month, the labor rights NGO, China Labor Watch, issued a report alleging poor working conditions at four Chinese factories that manufacture toys for several major toy companies and retailers, including Mattel, Fisher-Price, Disney, Hasbro, and Crayola. The hearing examined these allegations, what the toy industry is doing to audit factories in China and address reports of poor working conditions, and the effectiveness of private-sector auditing and business codes of conduct in China.
The witnesses included:
 
Li Qiang, Executive Director and Founder, China Labor Watch
 
 
William S. Reese, President and CEO, International Youth Foundation, Member of the ICTI CARE Foundation Governance Board
 
 
Earl Brown, Labor and Employment Law Counsel and China Program Director, Solidarity Center, AFL-CIO
 
 
Brian Campbell, Director of Policy and Legal Programs, International Labor Rights Forum
 
Brown’s statement, as prepared for delivery, is below.
Today is the last hearing for this Congress. It has been an honor to chair this Commission with my counterpart Congressman Chris Smith, over these last three and a half years. I want to thank our other Commissioners for their participation and support. Finally, the great work of this Commission would not have been possible without our incredible staff.
It is fitting that we end this year on an issue that hits so close to home this holiday season.
As parents, grandparents, aunts, and uncles, we care deeply about the toys we buy our children.
We care about their safety. And we should care about who makes these toys.
It used to be the case that toys were made in America, in proud towns across this country.
Towns like Bryan, Ohio, where for 40 years, workers at the Ohio Art Company made Etch A Sketch, a toy many of us played with as kids.
In Bryan, the company was a family. Etch A Sketch was the town mascot.
But then Walmart told the company that in order keep its business they would need to sell the product for less than $10. And so what did Ohio Art do? In 2001, they moved production of Etch A Sketch to Shenzhen, China. A hundred people lost their jobs. A community lost its pride.
Today, some 75 percent of our toys come from China.
They will be made by factory workers like the ones investigated in China Labor Watch’s most recent report.
Some of them are temp workers or students, making as little as $1.23 an hour and working more than 100 hours of overtime a month, in blatant violation of China’s overtime laws.
They live in crowded dorms, as many as 18 people to a room. They stand for long hours at work. Emergency exit doors are locked.
At the base monthly wage they are making, it would take nearly two months for one of these workers to afford the Thomas the Train mountain set that sells for $400 and is made in China.
We’ve seen this story repeated over and over again – American companies moving production to China to take advantage of cheap labor and poor labor enforcement and then resell these goods back to the United States. This business model is unprecedented in human history.
Seven years ago I co-sponsored legislation to expand the Tariff Act of 1930 to prohibit the importation of goods made with sweatshop labor. But private industry said it didn’t need a law, that members could deal with the problem on their own through codes of conduct, certifications, and audits. But seven years later, the problem hasn’t gone away.
What I want to know today is, are corporate codes and self-policing sufficient, or do we need a new approach?
Does the toy industry in China need something like the legally-binding Bangladesh Accord, which I urged companies like Walmart and Target to join last year, or an anti-sweatshop law like the one I helped introduce seven years ago?
Something must be done. We need to be able to tell our children that the person who made theirs toys—perhaps the  mother or father of another child—worked in a good place where she made a decent living.
We can’t say that now.
I look forward to hearing from our witnesses and turn it over to my co-chair Congressman Smith for his statement.
 
###
			
				
					Press Contact
					Contact: Meghan Dubyak/Lauren Kulik
(202) 224-3978",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.brown.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/with-house-passage-browns-bipartisan-bill-to-streamline-regulations-for-insurers_-like-columbus-nationwide---heads-to-presidents-desk-for-signature,"With House Passage, Brown's Bipartisan Bill to Streamline Regulations for Insurers - Like Columbus' Nationwide - Heads to President's Desk for Signature",2014-12-11,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,OH,Sherrod Brown,B000944,www.brown.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Bill Clears House by Unanimous Consent and Passed Senate in June; Heads to President to Become Law
				
			
			Thursday, December 11, 2014
            
	
			
			WASHINGTON, D.C. – Last night, the U.S. House of Representative unanimously passed legislation introduced by U.S. Sens. Susan Collins (R-ME), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), and Mike Johanns (R-NE) clarifying a provision in the 2010 Dodd-Frank law to streamline regulations for insurers. The bill passed the Senate in June and now heads to the President’s desk for signature. It provides the Federal Reserve with the authority to take into account the significant distinctions between banking and insurance when setting capital standards.
“This commonsense fix ensures that traditional life, property, and casualty insurance are not held to the same capital standards as banks,” Brown said. “While strong capital standards are crucial, they must make sense. Applying bank standards to insurers could make the financial system riskier, not safer. I thank Sens. Collins and Johanns for their work on this important legislation and I urge President Obama to sign this bill immediately.”
Specifically, the Insurance Capital Standards Clarification Act of 2014 would:
 
Add language to Section 171 of Dodd-Frank to clarify that, in establishing minimum capital requirements for holding companies on a consolidated basis, the Federal Reserve is not required to include insurers to the extent they are engaged in activities regulated as insurance at the state level;
Provide a mechanism for the Federal Reserve, acting in consultation with the appropriate state insurance authority, to provide similar treatment for foreign insurance entities within a U.S. holding company where that entity does not itself do business in the United States; and
Limits the ability of the Federal Reserve to require insurers which file holding company financial statements using Statutory Accounting Principles to instead prepare their financial statements using Generally Accepting Accounting Principles. 
 
###
			
				
					Press Contact
					Meghan Dubyak/Ben Famous (202) 224-3978",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://fudge.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=25&itemid=1536,"Congresswoman Fudge votes against H.R. 5806, Increases the deficit by extending tax credits for charitable contributions",2014-12-11,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,OH,Marcia Fudge,F000455,fudge.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congresswoman Marcia L. Fudge (OH-11) released the following statement today regarding her vote against H.R. 5806 – the Supporting America’s Charities Act:

	“I welcome and encourage the giving spirit that time and again prompts millions of individuals and corporations to support American charities, faith-based and other non-profit institutions and philanthropic organizations.  Their contributions enhance the economic and environmental well-being of our communities by supporting many of our nation’s most vulnerable citizens,” said Congresswoman Fudge.

	“However, I could not support H.R. 5806.  In advancing this bill, the House Majority did not figure out how to pay for the loss of revenue that will occur by extending these tax credits for 3 charitable contributions.  The included tax provisions would be permanent and increase the deficit by $11.1 billion over 10 years.  This is in conflict with House Republicans’ stated goal of reducing the nation’s debt.  After all, they passed a budget resolution that required tax credits to be paid for in order to be made permanent. 

	“Meanwhile, the House Majority continues in its refusal to extend other needed tax relief and programs that benefit the middle class, families, and other Americans who struggle to put food on the table and make ends meet.  It is not right for Congress to pick winners and losers among the American people.  If “charity begins at home,” let it begin in the People’s House, with a commitment to a fair and even-handed tax policy.”

	##",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://fudge.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=25&itemid=1540,Congresswoman Fudge Statement on the Government Spending Bill,2014-12-11,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,OH,Marcia Fudge,F000455,fudge.house.gov,,,legacy,"CONGRESSWOMAN FUDGE STATEMENT ON THE GOVERNMENT SPENDING BILL
	“Big Banks don’t need another bail-out.  Big donors don’t need more influence in elections.  Homeland Security is less secure without long-range funding.”

	WASHINGTON, DC – Congresswoman Marcia L. Fudge (OH-11) issued the following statement tonight after voting no on H.R. 83, the Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriates Act, known as the “Cromnibus” government spending bill:

	“The price of keeping the federal government operating should not come at the cost of more giveaways to special interests or expansion of big money influence in our political system.  Yet, the ‘Cromnibus’ does just that by cramming provisions into the bill that have nothing to do with funding the government for the next fiscal year,” said Congresswoman Fudge.

	“This appropriations bill erodes the Dodd-Frank Act and the protections it put in place after big banks and Wall Street traders nearly wrecked the nation’s financial system in 2008.  Have we learned nothing from the recent past?  H.R. 83 allows the very same interests that put the economy in a tailspin and cost millions of Americans their jobs to get another chance to make risky bets with taxpayers’ money.”

	“Another unwarranted provision in H.R. 83 involves campaign finance.  The working families, young adults and seniors I represent want meaningful campaign finance reform that lessens the influence of the mega-wealthy and special interests.  This legislation does just the opposite.   It increases more than ten times the amount individual donors can give to national political parties, from $32,400 to $324,000 per year to pay for conventions, election recounts and building funds.  This is outrageous.”

	“I am also concerned that while other government operations would be funded for a full year, H.R. 83 funds the Department of Homeland Security only until February 27, 2015.  Security within our borders is best served by implementing a long-range, comprehensive strategy, not a short-term budget agreement,” said Congresswoman Fudge.

	###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://wenstrup.house.gov/updates/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398514,Conservative Reforms Define House-Passed Funding Bill,2014-12-11,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,OH,Brad Wenstrup,W000815,wenstrup.house.gov,,,legacy,"With federal government funding set to expire at midnight on Thursday, the House of Representatives passed legislation with significant reforms to keep the government open through next September. While Representative Brad Wenstrup (R-OH) was disappointed Congress and the public did not have more time to review the legislation, he believes it lays the foundation for Republicans' legislative agenda to begin 2015, including blocking President Obama's executive action on immigration.
The fight's not over, Wenstrup declared. I'm glad the House has moved to fund the government, but know we are gearing up to fight this President's unconstitutional executive immigration action. With the newly elected Senate, Congress will speak for the American people and against President Obama's unprecedented power grab.
Wenstrup noted provisions significantly reduce IRS budgets, give the military a raise, and cut funding for numerous funds within Obamacare. Also included was Wenstrup's amendment to eliminate wasteful government printing that passed the House earlier this year.
When Nancy Pelosi and Elizabeth Warren oppose the legislation, you know you're likely doing something right, Wenstrup observed. The legislation must pass the Senate and be signed by the President before becoming law. NOTE: A list of many conservative reforms and savings found in this legislation can be found here

###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.portman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=0adfff8b-9616-48c7-b013-004c7bf5287b,"Key Portion of Portman, Franken and Baldwin Bill to Address Propane Price Spikes Set to Become Law",2014-12-11,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,OH,Rob Portman,P000449,www.portman.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. – Key provisions of a bill introduced by U.S. Sens. Rob Portman (R-Ohio), Al Franken (D-Minn.), and Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.) to help prevent future propane price spikes is set to become law after clearing the House and Senate.
The legislation that passed is part of a comprehensive bipartisan bill the Senators introduced earlier this year. Last year's propane crisis hit particularly hard because many rural families and farmers in the Midwest are dependent on propane to heat their homes or livestock. Last winter, many of them found themselves in the untenable position of having to choose between purchasing propane at very high prices or going without.
The portion of the bill that is set to become law would give propane distributors additional tools to get their product to consumers when supplies are high and prices are low. Making this fix will help the propane industry curb price spikes, and seeks to prevent another propane crisis like the one that hit families, farmers, and businesses across the Midwest and other parts of the country last winter.
“Last winter’s propane shortage caused a tremendous burden for the Ohioans who rely on propane to heat their homes and Ohio livestock operations,” said Sen. Portman. “I’m pleased this commonsense legislation is now law so we can be better prepared moving forward.”
“When the propane crisis hit last winter, I traveled around Minnesota and heard from families and producers about how much it hurt them,” said Sen. Franken, Chairman of the Senate Energy Subcommittee. “I heard from everyone—from homeowners who couldn’t afford to heat their homes to turkey growers struggling to heat their barns. I’m pleased that we were able to get this bipartisan bill across the finish line to help prevent future propane price crises by letting consumers figure out their fuel needs and costs.”
“Nearly 250,000 Wisconsin residents and countless businesses throughout my state weathered a severe propane crisis this last winter,” said Sen. Baldwin. “I’m proud of the progress we have made on our goal to prevent a future crisis. This bipartisan bill takes commonsense action to help prevent shortages and keep consumer prices down.”
The bipartisan measure was also cosponsored by Sens. Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Pat Roberts (R-Kan.), David Vitter (R-La.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), and Kelly Ayotte (D-N.H.).

###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.portman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=b1d63105-0dcd-4e75-b81e-28c11dab9a6e,Portman and Brown Bill to Help Ensure Safe Drinking Water Passes the Senate,2014-12-11,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,OH,Rob Portman,P000449,www.portman.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. – Legislation authored by U.S. Sens. Rob Portman (R-OH) and Sherrod Brown (D-OH) to promote the safety of drinking water unanimously passed the Senate today. The bill – in response to a high level of microcystin in the Western Lake Erie basin which disrupted the water supply of approximately 500,000 people in Northwest Ohio in early August – must also pass the U.S. House of Representatives before being sent to the President.
“It’s critical that all levels of government work together to determine if our drinking water is safe for human consumption,” Portman stated. “As we continue to work to ensure that Ohioans have access to safe and clean drinking water, the passage of this legislation is an important step toward knowing what is safe and what is not.”
“This is a commonsense, bipartisan bill that will ensure Ohioans are confident in the safety of their drinking water,” Brown said. “Our bill will address a void in our current monitoring efforts to protect our water and address potential public health threats.”
The Safe and Secure Drinking Water Act would direct the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to publish a health advisory and submit reports on the level of microcystins in drinking water that is determined to be safe for human consumption.
Microcystin is a byproduct of harmful algal blooms in surface water. Despite requests that state and federal regulators develop standards for microcystins in drinking water, cities and water plant operators currently rely on the World Health Organization’s suggestion of 1 part per billion or less. The EPA has been working on developing a health advisory, but has yet to issue one. This legislation would require EPA to publish a health advisory within 180 days for microcystin levels to be used by drinking water treatment plants and to standardize testing procedures for this toxin.  


###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://jordan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=397878,Jordan in Benghazi Select Committee hearing: 'Why were we there?',2014-12-10,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,OH,Jim Jordan,J000289,jordan.house.gov,,,legacy,"During his questioning period in today’s Benghazi Select Committee hearing, Congressman Jim Jordan (R-Urbana) made the following comments about the 2012 terrorist attack that resulted in the deaths of four Americans:
“Why were we there? Why were we there with these facts and these circumstances? That’s a fundamental question that the American people want to know and ... the families of these four individuals who gave their lives would like to know as well.”
To watch the first part of Rep. Jordan’s questioning period, click here: http://youtu.be/uesQPTOHyFM
To watch the second part of Rep. Jordan’s questioning period, click here: http://youtu.be/0SHcs3buAX0
-30-",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kaptur.house.gov/index.php?option=com_contentview=articleid=3295:statement-by-congresswoman-kaptur-on-the-great-lakes-restoration-initiative-reauthorizationcatid=51:2013-press-releasesItemid=300260,Statement by Congresswoman Kaptur on the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative Reauthorization,2014-12-10,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,OH,Marcy Kaptur,K000009,kaptur.house.gov,,,legacy,"Marcy Kaptur is inviting parents, grandparents, caring adults, and youth from across Northern Ohio to participate in a new “Read to Succeed” challenge. “Read to Succeed” is an initiative to encourage children and adults to read together and in doing so, the community is ensuring that our youth are prepared to read.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z