url,title,date,year,month,party,chamber,state,member_name,bioguide_id,domain,scraper,source,date_source,text,has_text,collected_at,updated_at https://www.portman.senate.gov/newsroom/portman-difference/portman-delivers-results-ohio-second-year-116th-congress,Portman Delivers Results for Ohio in Second Year of the 116th Congress,2020-12-31,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,OH,Rob Portman,P000449,www.portman.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Portman Delivers Results for Ohio in Second Year of the 116th Congress December 31, 2020 | Portman Difference During the second year of the 116th Congress, Senator Portman continued to deliver results for Ohio, just as he did in the previous Congress. He worked tirelessly to help Ohioans who have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic; create economic opportunity and retirement security for Ohio families; combat the addiction epidemic; honor our nation's veterans and strengthen our military; promote responsible use of artificial intelligence and technology; stand up against police brutality and the unnecessary violence in our country; protect and preserve our national parks; improve transparency and accountability within the federal government; fight for better and more affordable health care; and help all Ohioans achieve their God-given potential. During the 116th Congress, Portman has authored or co-authored 45legislative priorities in total that have been signed into law. Under President Trump, in total 82of Senator Portman's bills have been signed into law. Under President Obama, 68 of Portman's bill were signed into law. In total, during his 10 years in the Senate, Portman has successfully enacted 175 legislative priorities into law, including 129 bills as well as 46 amendments. Helping Ohioans Impacted By COVID-19 The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic impacted the lives of every American in 2020, and Senator Portman played a leadership role in crafting solutions to help families and small businesses leading to the passage of the COVID-19 Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act and the Families First Coronavirus Response Act. Since the beginning of the pandemic, Senator Portman has consistently called for bipartisan action to provide the health care and economic relief the American need and deserve. Since March, Portman has delivered 21 speeches on the Senate floor calling for bipartisan action to provide Americans the COVID-19 relief. Portman has urged Congress to provide additional relief to bolster our health care response, help our economy and small businesses recover, provide funding for schools and state and local governments, permanently expand telehealth options for addiction treatment, and provide enhanced federal unemployment benefits to help people who lost their jobs through no fault of their own. In November, in an effort to encourage all Americans to get vaccinated against COVID-19, Portman announced his participation in the ENSEMBLE phase 3 trial for the COVID-19 vaccine candidate being developed by Johnson & Johnson and managed by CTI Clinical Trial and Consulting Services (CTI) at its research center in Cincinnati, Ohio. Portman furthered this work by introducing his COVID-19 Vaccine Awareness Support Act to fund a national campaign to raise awareness of the safety and efficacy of FDA-authorized vaccines. In September, Portman introduced legislation to replenish FEMA's Disaster Relief Fund (DRF) to continue the enhanced federal unemployment insurance benefit of $300 per week authorized by President Trump's executive action and provide additional resources to support the federal government's response to historic wildfires in the West and other natural disasters such as Hurricane Sally. Securing Resources for Ohio: At the start of the pandemic, Portman worked closely with the administration and with Ohio companies to secure additional supplies for the strategic national stockpile including testing machines, ventilators, PPE, and food resources. In March, Portman successfully helped UC Health secure vital equipment to increase diagnostic testing for COVID-19. Portman helped UC Health secure a cobas 6800 machine which they will use to conduct nearly one thousand diagnostic tests every day, exponentially increasing COVID-19 testing capacity in southwest Ohio. Earlier this year, Portman worked with the White House and HHS and FDA to successfully facilitate the donation of approximately 2.2 million new gowns from Ohio-based Cardinal Health to theStrategic National Stockpile. The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has authorized the distribution and use of these gowns asnon-surgical isolation apparel. When Ohio-based company Gojo, which produces Purell, alerted Portman to the issue of tariffs restricting the access of components used in the distribution of hand sanitizer - specifically pumphouses, and e-collars he reached out to U.S. Trade Representative Lighthizer and facilitated a tariff relief. This helps companies like Gojo increase production and distribution to accommodate the increased demand. In July, Portman visited GOJO Industries and met with the company's leadership and team members to discussPortman's work to facilitate tariff relieffor hand hygiene products including hand sanitizer and soap dispensers and components to allow for increaseddistribution during COVID-19 pandemic. In April, Portman sent a letter to USDA Secretary Sonny Perdue urging swift approval of the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services' (ODJFS) request to operate the DisasterHousehold DistributionProgram.The request was approved the next week allowing foodbanks throughout Ohio to distribute more food across the state by removing administrative burdens, making it easier for staff and volunteers at foodbanks to maintain social distancing protocols, keeping themselves and their clients safe. Portman also worked with Ohio company Battelle in April to secure a new federal contract to help fund the rapid deployment of Battelle's decontamination systems to return to use previously worn N95 respirator masks and training to operate these systems to 60 sites across the country. In April, Portman facilitated Cleveland-based SecondBreath's request to produce ventilators for deployment around Ohio and the country. The ventilators were developed by Ohioans and tested in Ohio at a number of northeast Ohio hospitals, including the Cleveland Clinic, Akron Children's Hospital, and Akron City Hospital. The administration approved their production and SecondBreath was able to increase production for shipment across Ohio and the country. In August, Portman visited Honda Heritage Center and toured the ventilator compressor parts production facility. While on the tour, Portman, Honda leadership, and employees discussed Honda's efforts to help support the COVID-19 response, including production of face shields and compressor parts for ventilators. Portman also volunteered with the Ohio National Guard and met with leaders at foodbanks in the Mahoning Valley, at the Mid-Ohio Food Collective, and the Greater Cleveland Food Bank to see firsthand how the CARES Act funding helped with food access and distribution across Ohio. Listening to Ohio Groups Stakeholders: Senator Portman made it a priority tocommunicatewith constituents throughout the pandemic through tele town halls and FacebookLive town halls about the work he has done with the state and federal government. He also spoke with companies andstakeholdersthroughout the statetoensure Ohio has the resources it needs to respond to this unprecedented health crisis and can contribute to the national effort to slow the spread of the virus. Portman hosted multiples calls with Ohio business groups and leaders to discuss the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and how Congress and the administration could take further action to address their concerns. He spoke with business leaders of sizes in Central Ohio, Dayton, Toledo, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Warren County, and Butler County. In addition to business groups, Portman also hosted a wide-range of conference calls with the Ohio Restaurant Association, Ohio foodbanks, nonprofit organizations, manufacturers, bio science employers, higher education leaders, farmers, veterans, county commissioners, and mayors from all over the state. Portman also hosted conference calls with Ohio hospital leaders and withthe Ohio Association of County Behavioral Health Authorities (OACBHA) to discuss the impact of the COVID-19 health crisison health services, and mental health and addiction services around Ohio. Finally, Portman participated in a conference call with Ohio Jewish Communities to discuss the efforts the Jewish community made during the pandemic to help Ohio communities. Portman continued his push on the Senate Floor this year for swift bipartisan action to respond to the increasing number of drug overdoses as a result of the pandemic. Providing Resources for Ohioans Suffering with Addiction: During the COVID-19 pandemic, social distancing guidelines have disrupted traditional addiction treatment services and necessitated the use of telehealth services to help individuals with recovery. To meet this need, the CARES Act took unprecedented steps to expand access to telehealth through the waiving of federal restrictions to pay for telehealth and expanding grants to build out the nation's telehealth infrastructure. That's why Senator Portman has introduced legislation entitled theTelehealth Response for E-Prescribing Addiction Treatment Services (TREATS) Actto make permanent a number of temporary waivers for telehealth services that were authorized under the Public Health Emergency and to bolster telehealth options for addiction treatment services. Specifically, it will allow for a patient to be prescribed lower scheduled drugs like through telehealth on their first visit. Current law requires an in-person visit to receive any controlled substance, but this is a deterrent to patients in crisis and in urgent need of treatments from Schedule III or IV drugs. In July, Portman published a column highlighting the importance of Congress passing the TREATS Act to ensure that addiction health services have the resources they need to adapt to this new reality. He emphasized that doing so will help to preserve the progress made in combating the addiction crisis and ensure that more Americans can reach their God-given potential.He then participated in adrug addiction roundtable discussion with members of theHancock County Board of Alcohol, Drug Addiction and Mental Health Services (ADAMHS)to discuss COVID-19's impact on addiction treatment. Securing Grant Funding: The COVID-19 Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Actprovided unprecedented economic and health care relief to Americans during the ongoing pandemic. Portman worked closely with the administration to ensure Ohioans received the support they needed. Housing: Portman worked with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to ensure communities in Ohio received funding to help promote economic development in urban communities, address the needs of homeless people in emergency or transitional shelters, and provide housing assistance and related supportive services for low-income persons. This includes: o Community Development Block Grants (CDBG), Emergency Solutions Grants (ESG), and Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS (HOPWA) Grants for cities in Ohio, o $30 million to Supplemental Public Housing Operating Funds across Ohio, which helps support public housing agencies across the state provide services during the COVID-19 pandemic; o Nearly $90 million in Housing Choice Voucher Program Housing Assistance Payments Supplemental Funding to be used to prevent, prepare for, and respond to the pandemic among individuals and families who are homeless or receiving homeless assistance. o $1.85 million in funding to Ohio housing agencies to assist non-elderly persons with disabilities, particularly those who are transitioning out of institutional or other separated settings; at serious risk of institutionalization; currently experiencing homelessness; previously experienced homelessness and currently a client in a permanent supportive housing or rapid rehousing project; or at risk of becoming homeless; o and nearly $185,000 in CARES Act funding to provide project-based rental assistance for low income families. Agriculture: Senator Portman applauded the U.S. Department of Agriculture for awarding more than $1.4 millionin grants to communities in Ohio for rural development.These grants will help these Ohio communities build and improve critical facilities. According to the USDA, the Ohio grant recipients can use the funding to build or upgrade a wide-range of rural community facilities such as schools, libraries, clinics and public safety facilities. FEMA: In March, Senator Portman senta letter urging President Trump to act swiftly on Governor Mike DeWine's request for approval of a major disaster declaration for the state of Ohio in response to the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak.The president approved the disaster declaration the following day. As a result, Ohio received nearly $4.1 million in grant funding from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) as well as the following funding; o $5.5 million for ProMedica Toledo Hospital to help fund COVID-19 protective measures; o $5.2 million to Ohio Health Care Systems and $2.6 million to University Hospitals Health System to help continue to provide COVID-19 treatment, testing and protective measures; o $12.7 million to help Ohio State University - Columbus Campus and Premier Health in Ohio with costs associated with COVID-19; o and $46 million to the Cleveland Clinic Foundation. Businesses: Portman worked with the Trump administration to ensure that businesses of all sizes in Ohio had the resources they needed to help retain employees and keep their doors open. o In May, Portman applauded the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) for awarding a $3.75 million grant for COVID-19 Emergency Response for Small to Medium Enterprises to Appalachian Community Capital (ACC). ACC will use this funding to help the region's development finance institutions make up for lost revenue as they temporarily defer loan payments. o Thanks to funding available through the CARES Act, which Portman supported, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) CARES Act Emergency Program awarded the Ohio Development Services Agency $2.3 million to help support Ohio-based U.S. small- and medium-sized manufacturers, including rural manufacturers. o In August, Portman applauded U.S. Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross's announcement that the Department's Economic Development Administration (EDA) awarded $8.8 million and $1 million in CARES Act grants to Ohio cities to be able to provide critical gap financing to small businesses and entrepreneurs. In addition, EDA awarded $2 million to five EDA Economic Development District organizations across Ohio to update economic development plans and fortify programs to assist communities in responding to the COVID-19 pandemic. o In addition, through the CARES Act, the U.S. Department of Labor awarded $8.5 million in funding for Disaster Recovery Dislocated Worker Grants (DWGs) to help address the workforce-related impacts of the pandemic. Education: The historic CARES Act provided a higher education emergency relief fund to assist higher education institutions across the nation. Senator Portman worked with the U.S. Department of Education to ensure Ohio higher education institutions received the resources needed to meet the demands of the pandemic. o In April, Portman announced that the Department of Education distributed $388 million in funding to institutions of higher education in Ohio and in May, the National Science Foundation awarded more than $1.5 million in CARES Act-funded RAPID Response Research grants to fund research that addresses the pandemic. In September, Portman announced that the National Institutes of Health (NIH) awarded a $5 million, two-yearRapid Acceleration of Diagnostics (RADx)-UPgrant to The Ohio State University. The RADx-UP program supports projects designed to rapidly implement COVID-19 testing strategies in populations disproportionately affected by the pandemic. o Portman applauded the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development for awarding more than $1.1 million in Distance Learning and Telemedicine grants to two school districts in Ohio: Gallia County Schools and New London Local School District. The $172,358 Rural Development grant for Gallia County Schools will help provide students and staff with primary and preventative care through the Appalachian Primary Care Telemedicine Program. The $999,524 grant for the New London Local School District will help expand Science Technology Engineering and Math resource access to students in Pre-kindergarten through sixth grade across the four Ohio counties served by the school district. USDA's Distance Learning and Telemedicine grant program was provided $25 million in the bipartisan CARES Act. Health Care: This year, thousands of Ohioans had to rely on telehealth in order to have access to their primary care providers. Thanks to the bipartisan CARES Act, which Portman strongly supported, Ohio received multiple telehealth grants to assist health care facilities, testing centers, and hospitals serving children and low-income, vulnerable populations across the state. Portman led legislation to provide certainty to hospitals participating in the 340B drug discount program during the COVID-19 public health emergency. In normal years, the 340B program provides needed flexible funds to meet the needs of a hospital's community, but during the ongoing pandemic, the 340B program has become a vital lifeline for hospitals as they've see precipitous drop offs in revenue and an inability to pay for the essential COVID services that patients continue to need. Early days of the pandemic forced many hospitals to reduce inpatient hospital admissions of low-income Medicare and Medicaid patients, a critical metric in determining eligibility for the 340B program. Though hospitals have resumed elective procedures, and patients have begun returning to seek care, there is concern that as a result of this year's slowdown and threats to suspend elective care again as hospital beds fill up, some hospitals may not meet the required inpatient admission threshold to remain in the program for the following year. This legislation would ensure that any previously eligible hospital will be deemed eligible for any cost reporting period during which the public health emergency occurred to meet the needs of hospitals now during this crisis and to preserve the vital program for years to come. o In May, Portman announced that Ohio received $238 million to expand COVID-19 diagnostic testing capabilities. o In July, Portman announced that the Federal Communications Commission's Wireline Competition Bureauawardedmore than $415,000in telehealth grants to four health care facilities in Ohio that will use this fundingto provide telehealth services targeted at low-income patients so thattheycan receive medical care in more flexible settings. This grant award followed previous announcements of telehealth grants for Ohio, including oneannouncedin April for the Health Partners of Western Ohio located in Lima, Ohio.In early May, three facilitiesreceivednearly $1 million in funding and four facilitiesreceivednearly $800,000 in funding, and later that month six facilitiesreceived$1.8 million in funding, and an additional six facilitiesreceived$1.1 million. In June, $3.46 million wasdistributedtofacilitiesin Ohio. o Portman made clearthat the Administration must do a better job of quickly distributing funding for safety net hospitals and providers, speaking out in April when other hospitals and health care providers received the first tranche of COVID-19 response funding while safety net provider funding was initially In April, he announced that Ohio received an additional $17 million in CARES Act funding for the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) to help increase testing and other response tools. In May, theHealth Resources andServices Administration (HRSA), an agency of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services,awarded$17.4million in federal grantsto support51health centers throughout Ohio in an effort to expand testing capacities. o Portman repeatedly urgedthe administration to support health care providers thatserve our nation's most vulnerable,including our children's hospitals, nursing homes, and safety net hospitals. In June, Portman and a group of bipartisan colleagues sent aletterto HHS urging them to actquickly and equitably in distributing funding to vulnerable populations and the next dayHHS released $10 billionfor these hospitals. In July, Portman applauded the Trump Administration for distributing $3 billion in additional emergency funding allocated in COVID-19 spending packages to hospitals that overwhelmingly serve Medicaid and low-income patients. Ohio received about $90 million from this $3 billion. In August, Portman announced that Ohio received an additional $165 million in federal funding for children's hospitals. Transportation: The transportation industry has been hit hard by the pandemic, and Senator Portman worked closely with the U.S. Department of Transportation to ensure Ohio companies have the financial resources they need during the pandemic. o Portman worked with DOT's Federal Aviation Administration to ensure that airports across Ohio received the resources they needed. In total, Portman has helped to secure more than $126.2 million for 97 airports across Ohio. These grants helped to provide economic relief for lost revenue due to COVID-19. o In addition, thanks to the CARES Act, Portman announced that DOT's Federal Transit Administration (FTA) awarded a $5.8 million grant to the Butler County Regional Transit Authority, and a $1.7 million grant to the City of Springfield in Clark County, Ohio in order to respond to and recover from the public health emergency. o In April, Portman announced that the Federal Transit Administration awarded a $1.7 million grant to Miami County to help fund critical continued public transit operations to keep the region moving during these unprecedented times. o In November, Portman applauded DOT for awarding a $12 million federal grant to the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet for the repair or reconstruction of federal-aid highways and roads on federal lands that have suffered serious damage as a result of natural disasters or catastrophic failures from an external cause. Helping Businesses Stay Afloat. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, Portman has stayed in constant contact with business leaders of all sizes and worked to help deliver the results they need to stay afloat during this economic crisis. He visited business in Tipp City, Cincinnati, Russells Point, Sidney, and Hamilton and heard from company leaders about how, thanks to the Paycheck Protection Program loan that Portman supported, they were able to keep workers on payroll and continue operations. During the second year of the 116th Congress, Senator Portman continued to deliver results for Ohio, just as he did in the previous Congress. He worked tirelessly to help Ohioans who have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic; create economic opportunity and retirement security for Ohio families; combat the addiction epidemic; honor our nation's veterans and strengthen our military; promote responsible use of artificial intelligence and technology; stand up against police brutality and the unnecessary violence in our country; protect and preserve our national parks; improve transparency and accountability within the federal government; fight for better and more affordable health care; and help all Ohioans achieve their God-given potential. During the 116th Congress, Portman has authored or co-authored 42 legislative priorities in total that have been signed into law. Under President Trump, in total 79 of Senator Portman's bills have been signed into law. Under President Obama, 68 of Portman's bill were signed into law. In total, during his 10 years in the Senate, Portman has successfully enacted 172 legislative priorities into law, including 126 bills as well as 46 amendments. Helping Ohioans Impacted By COVID-19 The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic impacted the lives of every American in 2020, and Senator Portman played a leadership role in crafting solutions to help families and small businesses leading to the passage of the COVID-19 Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act and the Families First Coronavirus Response Act. Since the beginning of the pandemic, Senator Portman has consistently called for bipartisan action to provide the health care and economic relief the American need and deserve. Since March, Portman has delivered 21 speeches on the Senate floor calling for bipartisan action to provide Americans the COVID-19 relief. Portman has urged Congress to provide additional relief to bolster our health care response, help our economy and small businesses recover, provide funding for schools and state and local governments, permanently expand telehealth options for addiction treatment, and provide enhanced federal unemployment benefits to help people who lost their jobs through no fault of their own. In November, in an effort to encourage all Americans to get vaccinated against COVID-19, Portman announced his participation in the ENSEMBLE phase 3 trial for the COVID-19 vaccine candidate being developed by Johnson & Johnson and managed by CTI Clinical Trial and Consulting Services (CTI) at its research center in Cincinnati, Ohio. Portman furthered this work by introducing his COVID-19 Vaccine Awareness Support Act to fund a national campaign to raise awareness of the safety and efficacy of FDA-authorized vaccines. In September, Portman introduced legislation to replenish FEMA's Disaster Relief Fund (DRF) to continue the enhanced federal unemployment insurance benefit of $300 per week authorized by President Trump's executive action and provide additional resources to support the federal government's response to historic wildfires in the West and other natural disasters such as Hurricane Sally. Securing Resources for Ohio: At the start of the pandemic, Portman worked closely with the administration and with Ohio companies to secure additional supplies for the strategic national stockpile including testing machines, ventilators, PPE, and food resources. In March, Portman successfully helped UC Health secure vital equipment to increase diagnostic testing for COVID-19. Portman helped UC Health secure a cobas 6800 machine which they will use to conduct nearly one thousand diagnostic tests every day, exponentially increasing COVID-19 testing capacity in southwest Ohio. Earlier this year, Portman worked with the White House and HHS and FDA to successfully facilitate the donation of approximately 2.2 million new gowns from Ohio-based Cardinal Health to theStrategic National Stockpile. The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has authorized the distribution and use of these gowns asnon-surgical isolation apparel. When Ohio-based company Gojo, which produces Purell, alerted Portman to the issue of tariffs restricting the access of components used in the distribution of hand sanitizer - specifically pumphouses, and e-collars he reached out to U.S. Trade Representative Lighthizer and facilitated a tariff relief. This helps companies like Gojo increase production and distribution to accommodate the increased demand. In July, Portman visited GOJO Industries and met with the company's leadership and team members to discussPortman's work to facilitate tariff relieffor hand hygiene products including hand sanitizer and soap dispensers and components to allow for increaseddistribution during COVID-19 pandemic. In April, Portman sent a letter to USDA Secretary Sonny Perdue urging swift approval of the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services' (ODJFS) request to operate the DisasterHousehold DistributionProgram.The request was approved the next week allowing foodbanks throughout Ohio to distribute more food across the state by removing administrative burdens, making it easier for staff and volunteers at foodbanks to maintain social distancing protocols, keeping themselves and their clients safe. Portman also worked with Ohio company Battelle in April to secure a new federal contract to help fund the rapid deployment of Battelle's decontamination systems to return to use previously worn N95 respirator masks and training to operate these systems to 60 sites across the country. In April, Portman facilitated Cleveland-based SecondBreath's request to produce ventilators for deployment around Ohio and the country. The ventilators were developed by Ohioans and tested in Ohio at a number of northeast Ohio hospitals, including the Cleveland Clinic, Akron Children's Hospital, and Akron City Hospital. The administration approved their production and SecondBreath was able to increase production for shipment across Ohio and the country. In August, Portman visited Honda Heritage Center and toured the ventilator compressor parts production facility. While on the tour, Portman, Honda leadership, and employees discussed Honda's efforts to help support the COVID-19 response, including production of face shields and compressor parts for ventilators. Listening to Ohio Groups Stakeholders: Senator Portman made it a priority tocommunicatewith constituents throughout the pandemic through tele town halls and FacebookLive town halls about the work he has done with the state and federal government. He also spoke with companies andstakeholdersthroughout the statetoensure Ohio has the resources it needs to respond to this unprecedented health crisis and can contribute to the national effort to slow the spread of the virus. In addition to business groups, Portman also hosted a wide-range of conference calls with the Ohio Restaurant Association, Ohio foodbanks, nonprofit organizations, manufacturers, bio science employers, higher education leaders, farmers, veterans, county commissioners, and mayors from all over the state. Portman also hosted conference calls with Ohio hospital leaders and withthe Ohio Association of County Behavioral Health Authorities (OACBHA) to discuss the impact of the COVID-19 health crisison health services, and mental health and addiction services around Ohio. Finally, Portman participated in a conference call with Ohio Jewish Communities to discuss the efforts the Jewish community made during the pandemic to help Ohio communities. Portman continued his push on the Senate Floor this year for swift bipartisan action to respond to the increasing number of drug overdoses as a result of the pandemic. Providing Resources for Ohioans Suffering with Addiction: During the COVID-19 pandemic, social distancing guidelines have disrupted traditional addiction treatment services and necessitated the use of telehealth services to help individuals with recovery. To meet this need, the CARES Act took unprecedented steps to expand access to telehealth through the waiving of federal restrictions to pay for telehealth and expanding grants to build out the nation's telehealth infrastructure. That's why Senator Portman has introduced legislation entitled theTelehealth Response for E-Prescribing Addiction Treatment Services (TREATS) Actto make permanent a number of temporary waivers for telehealth services that were authorized under the Public Health Emergency and to bolster telehealth options for addiction treatment services. Specifically, it will allow for a patient to be prescribed lower scheduled drugs like through telehealth on their first visit. Current law requires an in-person visit to receive any controlled substance, but this is a deterrent to patients in crisis and in urgent need of treatments from Schedule III or IV drugs. In July, Portman published a column highlighting the importance of Congress passing the TREATS Act to ensure that addiction health services have the resources they need to adapt to this new reality. He emphasized that doing so will help to preserve the progress made in combating the addiction crisis and ensure that more Americans can reach their God-given potential.He then participated in adrug addiction roundtable discussion with members of theHancock County Board of Alcohol, Drug Addiction and Mental Health Services (ADAMHS)to discuss COVID-19's impact on addiction treatment. Securing Grant Funding: The COVID-19 Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Actprovided unprecedented economic and health care relief to Americans during the ongoing pandemic. Portman worked closely with the administration to ensure Ohioans received the support they needed. Housing: Portman worked with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to ensure communities in Ohio received funding to help promote economic development in urban communities, address the needs of homeless people in emergency or transitional shelters, and provide housing assistance and related supportive services for low-income persons. This includes: Agriculture: Senator Portman applauded the U.S. Department of Agriculture for awarding more than $1.4 millionin grants to communities in Ohio for rural development.These grants will help these Ohio communities build and improve critical facilities. According to the USDA, the Ohio grant recipients can use the funding to build or upgrade a wide-range of rural community facilities such as schools, libraries, clinics and public safety facilities. FEMA: In March, Senator Portman senta letter urging President Trump to act swiftly on Governor Mike DeWine's request for approval of a major disaster declaration for the state of Ohio in response to the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak.The president approved the disaster declaration the following day. As a result, Ohio received nearly $4.1 million in grant funding from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) as well as the following funding; $5.5 million for ProMedica Toledo Hospital to help fund COVID-19 protective measures; $5.2 million to Ohio Health Care Systems and $2.6 million to University Hospitals Health System to help continue to provide COVID-19 treatment, testing and protective measures; $12.7 million to help Ohio State University - Columbus Campus and Premier Health in Ohio with costs associated with COVID-19; and $46 million to the Cleveland Clinic Foundation. Businesses: Portman worked with the Trump administration to ensure that businesses of all sizes in Ohio had the resources they needed to help retain employees and keep their doors open. In May, Portman applauded the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) for awarding a $3.75 million grant for COVID-19 Emergency Response for Small to Medium Enterprises to Appalachian Community Capital (ACC). ACC will use this funding to help the region's development finance institutions make up for lost revenue as they temporarily defer loan payments. Thanks to funding available through the CARES Act, which Portman supported, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) CARES Act Emergency Program awarded the Ohio Development Services Agency $2.3 million to help support Ohio-based U.S. small- and medium-sized manufacturers, including rural manufacturers. In August, Portman applauded U.S. Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross's announcement that the Department's Economic Development Administration (EDA) awarded $8.8 million and $1 million in CARES Act grants to Ohio cities to be able to provide critical gap financing to small businesses and entrepreneurs. In addition, EDA awarded $2 million to five EDA Economic Development District organizations across Ohio to update economic development plans and fortify programs to assist communities in responding to the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition, through the CARES Act, the U.S. Department of Labor awarded $8.5 million in funding for Disaster Recovery Dislocated Worker Grants (DWGs) to help address the workforce-related impacts of the pandemic. Education: The historic CARES Act provided a higher education emergency relief fund to assist higher education institutions across the nation. Senator Portman worked with the U.S. Department of Education to ensure Ohio higher education institutions received the resources needed to meet the demands of the pandemic. In April, Portman announced that the Department of Education distributed $388 million in funding to institutions of higher education in Ohio and in May, the National Science Foundation awarded more than $1.5 million in CARES Act-funded RAPID Response Research grants to fund research that addresses the pandemic. In September, Portman announced that the National Institutes of Health (NIH) awarded a $5 million, two-yearRapid Acceleration of Diagnostics (RADx)-UPgrant to The Ohio State University. The RADx-UP program supports projects designed to rapidly implement COVID-19 testing strategies in populations disproportionately affected by the pandemic. Portman applauded the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development for awarding more than $1.1 million in Distance Learning and Telemedicine grants to two school districts in Ohio: Gallia County Schools and New London Local School District. The $172,358 Rural Development grant for Gallia County Schools will help provide students and staff with primary and preventative care through the Appalachian Primary Care Telemedicine Program. The $999,524 grant for the New London Local School District will help expand Science Technology Engineering and Math resource access to students in Pre-kindergarten through sixth grade across the four Ohio counties served by the school district. USDA's Distance Learning and Telemedicine grant program was provided $25 million in the bipartisan CARES Act. Health Care: This year, thousands of Ohioans had to rely on telehealth in order to have access to their primary care providers. Thanks to the bipartisan CARES Act, which Portman strongly supported, Ohio received multiple telehealth grants to assist health care facilities, testing centers, and hospitals serving children and low-income, vulnerable populations across the state. Portman led legislation to provide certainty to hospitals participating in the 340B drug discount program during the COVID-19 public health emergency. In normal years, the 340B program provides needed flexible funds to meet the needs of a hospital's community, but during the ongoing pandemic, the 340B program has become a vital lifeline for hospitals as they've see precipitous drop offs in revenue and an inability to pay for the essential COVID services that patients continue to need. Early days of the pandemic forced many hospitals to reduce inpatient hospital admissions of low-income Medicare and Medicaid patients, a critical metric in determining eligibility for the 340B program. Though hospitals have resumed elective procedures, and patients have begun returning to seek care, there is concern that as a result of this year's slowdown and threats to suspend elective care again as hospital beds fill up, some hospitals may not meet the required inpatient admission threshold to remain in the program for the following year. This legislation would ensure that any previously eligible hospital will be deemed eligible for any cost reporting period during which the public health emergency occurred to meet the needs of hospitals now during this crisis and to preserve the vital program for years to come. In May, Portman announced that Ohio received $238 million to expand COVID-19 diagnostic testing capabilities. In July, Portman announced that the Federal Communications Commission's Wireline Competition Bureauawardedmore than $415,000in telehealth grants to four health care facilities in Ohio that will use this fundingto provide telehealth services targeted at low-income patients so thattheycan receive medical care in more flexible settings. This grant award followed previous announcements of telehealth grants for Ohio, including oneannouncedin April for the Health Partners of Western Ohio located in Lima, Ohio.In early May, three facilitiesreceivednearly $1 million in funding and four facilitiesreceivednearly $800,000 in funding, and later that month six facilitiesreceived$1.8 million in funding, and an additional six facilitiesreceived$1.1 million. In June, $3.46 million wasdistributedtofacilitiesin Ohio. Portman made clearthat the Administration must do a better job of quickly distributing funding for safety net hospitals and providers, speaking out in April when other hospitals and health care providers received the first tranche of COVID-19 response funding while safety net provider funding was initially In April, he announced that Ohio received an additional $17 million in CARES Act funding for the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) to help increase testing and other response tools. In May, theHealth Resources andServices Administration (HRSA), an agency of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services,awarded$17.4million in federal grantsto support51health centers throughout Ohio in an effort to expand testing capacities. Portman repeatedly urgedthe administration to support health care providers thatserve our nation's most vulnerable,including our children's hospitals, nursing homes, and safety net hospitals. In June, Portman and a group of bipartisan colleagues sent aletterto HHS urging them to actquickly and equitably in distributing funding to vulnerable populations and the next dayHHS released $10 billionfor these hospitals. In July, Portman applauded the Trump Administration for distributing $3 billion in additional emergency funding allocated in COVID-19 spending packages to hospitals that overwhelmingly serve Medicaid and low-income patients. Ohio received about $90 million from this $3 billion. In August, Portman announced that Ohio received an additional $165 million in federal funding for children's hospitals. Transportation: The transportation industry has been hit hard by the pandemic, and Senator Portman worked closely with the U.S. Department of Transportation to ensure Ohio companies have the financial resources they need during the pandemic. Portman worked with DOT's Federal Aviation Administration to ensure that airports across Ohio received the resources they needed. In addition, thanks to the CARES Act, Portman announced that DOT's Federal Transit Administration (FTA) awarded a $5.8 million grant to the Butler County Regional Transit Authority, and a $1.7 million grant to the City of Springfield in Clark County, Ohio in order to respond to and recover from the public health emergency. In April, Portman announced that the Federal Transit Administration awarded a $1.7 million grant to Miami County to help fund critical continued public transit operations to keep the region moving during these unprecedented times. In November, Portman applauded DOT for awarding a $12 million federal grant to the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet for the repair or reconstruction of federal-aid highways and roads on federal lands that have suffered serious damage as a result of natural disasters or catastrophic failures from an external cause. Helping Businesses Stay Afloat. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, Portman has stayed in constant contact with business leaders of all sizes and worked to help deliver the results they need to stay afloat during this economic crisis. He visited business in Tipp City, Cincinnati, Russells Point, Sidney, and Hamilton and heard from company leaders about how, thanks to the Paycheck Protection Program loan that Portman supported, they were able to keep workers on payroll and continue operations. In July, Portman introduced theHealthy Workplaces Tax Credit Actto help businesses continue to safely reopen while ensuring the safety of employees and consumers through a refundable tax credit against payroll taxes for 50 percent of the costs incurred by a business for increased testing, personal protective equipment (PPE), disinfecting, extra cleaning and reconfiguring work spaces to adhere to social distancing guidelines.He hopes to have it included in any additional COVID-19 relief package that passes from the Senate. In September, in an effort to remove unnecessary regulations that undermined our nation's ability to rapidly respond to the pandemic, Portman introduced the Pandemic Preparedness, Response, and Recovery Act. The legislation establishes an accountable, expert-led, commission to identify ineffective, unnecessary, or overly burdensome regulations that should be modified, consolidated, harmonized, or repealed to promote jobs and higher wages; reduce household expenses; improve economic performance and competitiveness; reduce compliance costs; encourage growth and innovation; improve competitiveness; and protect public health, safety, and welfare. In July, Portman introduced theHealthy Workplaces Tax Credit Actto help businesses continue to safely reopen while ensuring the safety of employees and consumers through a refundable tax credit against payroll taxes for 50 percent of the costs incurred by a business for increased testing, personal protective equipment (PPE), disinfecting, extra cleaning and reconfiguring work spaces to adhere to social distancing guidelines.He hopes to have it included in any additional COVID-19 relief package that passes from the Senate. In September, in an effort to remove unnecessary regulations that undermined our nation's ability to rapidly respond to the pandemic, Portman introduced the Pandemic Preparedness, Response, and Recovery Act. The legislation establishes an accountable, expert-led, commission to identify ineffective, unnecessary, or overly burdensome regulations that should be modified, consolidated, harmonized, or repealed to promote jobs and higher wages; reduce household expenses; improve economic performance and competitiveness; reduce compliance costs; encourage growth and innovation; improve competitiveness; and protect public health, safety, and welfare. Assisting Second Chance Business Owners. In June 2020, Portman introduced the bipartisanPaycheck Protection Program Second Chance Act,which would remove barriers to PPP for owners with unrelated felony records while preserving the presumption of innocence and keeping in place the five year timeframe for felony crimes related to financial fraud. This legislation follows Senator Portman'sletterto Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin and Small Business Administration (SBA) Administrator Jovita Carranza urging that the SBA allow small business owners with criminal records to apply for the PPP. National and Ohioan reentry and second chance coalition leaders, law enforcement, and local officials havevoiced their supportof the initiative. In August, Portman met with local business leaders in Cincinnati for a discussion led by Innovative Labor and Cleaning Services owner Troy Parker. Parker's company received a $235,000 Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan in June thanks to Portman's efforts to expand eligibility to cover Second Chance businesses owned by individuals who have a criminal record in their past but who have turned their lives around. Troyis an example of a Second Chance success story having started Innovative Labor and Cleaning in2015 after re-entering the community. Reshoring PPE: Portman believes that the American people should not have to rely so heavily on foreign countries for personal protective equipment and that we should bring personal protection equipment production back to the United States. In August, he introduced bipartisan legislation that will strengthen efforts to onshore production of PPE in the United States by requiring the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) to issue long-term contracts for American-made PPE. In June, Portman and Senator Sherrod Brown sent a letter urging the COVID-19 Joint Acquisition Task Force (JATF) to prioritize the procurement of American-made PPE, and to consider comprehensive measures to incentivize the reshoring of additional PPE production back to the United States. JATF was created to synchronize and support execution of the Department of Defense's COVID-19 response to interagency requests for medical resources involving the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the Department of Health and Human Services, and other agencies. Meeting with Ohio Hospitals: As a result of the bipartisan CARES Act, which Senator Portman supported and President Trump signed into law, health facilities around Ohio were able to receive much needed resources to care for patients with COVID-19, to expand testing, and to work to address the disproportionate impact the virus had on minority communities. This year, Portman visited the Columbus Public Health Department, the Health Collaborative in Cincinnati, Adena Health System in Chillicothe, and Premier Health's Miami Valley Hospital to see firsthand how the CARES Act was working to help Ohio hospitals. Advocating for Additional Testing at Elkton: In April, Portman sent a letterurging Attorney General William Barr and Bureau of Prisons Director Michael Carvajal to increase COVID-19 testing at Federal Correctional Institution Elkton in Lisbon, Ohio. Elkton had the highest number of deaths of any federal prison, with nine fatalities. Creating Economic Opportunity & Retirement Security for Ohio Families Since his election in 2010, Senator Portman has focused on strengthening the economy, reforming our tax code and providing relief to families and small businesses. In the 115th Congress, he delivered on this commitment with the enactment of comprehensive tax cuts and tax reform, and Portman saw firsthand how Ohio companies are responding by creating more jobs, increasing wages, paying bonuses, making additional investments in plants and equipment, and expanding health care and retirement benefits. In addition to tax reform, Portman worked on a number of measures to help create jobs, level the playing field for Ohio workers, and make Ohio businesses more competitive. Strengthening Skills Training & Workforce Development. Portman, who is the co-founder of theSenate Career and Technical Education (CTE) Caucus,continued to help lead efforts in the Senate to expand skills training to close the skills gap and ensure that Ohioans are ready for the jobs available today. As part of his efforts, Portman joined Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA) inintroducingthe bipartisanJOBS Actwhich will make high-quality and rigorous short-term job training programs more affordable by expanding access to Pell Grants for low-income students. Portman has toured Ohio meeting with community colleges, educators, workforce development officials and others to receive input and highlight the importance of this bill, which is supported by the Trump administration and was included in its budget request. As we work to rebuild the economy, and as manufacturers continue to look to hire more workers, this bill is needed now more than ever. In late July, Portman teamed up with Senator Peters (D-MI) to introduce bipartisan legislation to strengthen reentry programs that provide workforce training, as well as pre-apprenticeship and apprenticeship opportunities. The Reentry Employment Opportunities Act would codify into law the U.S. Department of Labor's Reentry Employment Opportunities (REO) Program, which supports national, regional, and local organizations that administer skills training programs. The REO program provides critical opportunities for returning citizens to be able to have a smooth transition back into society and learn skills that will help them secure good jobs. Ensuring a Secure Retirement for Hard Working Americans. Portman is widely regarded as the leading Senate voice for common-sense pension reform. Portman believes that every American should have the opportunity to save for a safe, secure retirement. In February 2019, Senate Finance Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-IA) selected Portman to lead the committee's Subcommittee on Social Security, Pensions and Family Policy. Portman has leveraged this perch to spearhead passage of the SECURE Act at the end of 2019 and help lead bipartisan efforts to reform multiemployer pension funds and ensure hard working American's receive the benefits they have earned. In June, Portman delivered remarks on the Senate floor outlining the multiemployer pension crisis currently threatening the retirements of millions of Americans, and the consequences of ongoing inaction. Portman also underscored the need for any bipartisan multiemployer pension reform legislation to address both the immediate crisis with respect to the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (PBGC,) and the longer-term structural issues that created the conditions for the persistent underfunding of multiemployer pension plans in the first place. He also emphasized that any solution to address the immediate crisis must involve a shared responsibility approach, with contributions from not just general public funds, but also employers and plan participants within the multiemployer pension system. Portman introduced the Railroad Employee Equality and Fairness Act, which would end the sequester on the Railroad Retirement Board's (RRB) Unemployment Insurance Account. Due to the Budget Control Act of 2011, and a subsequent sequestration order to implement mandated spending cuts, railroad unemployment benefits have been reduced by a set percentage that is subject to revision at the beginning of each fiscal year. Currently, the sequester, as it relates to the RRB, continues until fiscal year 2030. Without this legislation, it is expected that the sequestration will result in a 5.7 percent reduction in railroad unemployment benefits through fiscal year 2030. In December, Portman's Subcommittee held a hearing on his bipartisan Retirement Security & Savings Act, which was designed to help pave the way for bipartisan action early in the 117th Congress. Portman's legislation with Senator Ben Cardin (D-MD) is poised for bipartisan action, and Portman was encouraged that new legislation introduced by Congressmen Richard Neal's (D-MA) and Kevin Brady's (R-TX), the Securing a Strong Retirement Act of 2020, included many similar reforms, such as: improving the tax credit so businesses have a larger incentive to create plans, allowing workers to save more for retirement, allowing workers to save longer for retirement, lowering the penalty on errors, and expanding product options so Americans can choose the right investment and annuity option for themselves. Portman and Cardin's bill, along with this new, bipartisan legislation in the House, seek to build on the SECURE Act, which became law in 2019 and included a set of reforms designed to help more Americans save for their retirement. Encouraging Broadband & Infrastructure Development in Rural Areas. The COVID-19 pandemic has forced countless functions of everyday life to go virtual. As such, it is vital that every American have access to reliable, high-speed internet. That is why Portman introduced legislation in July to bolster efforts to expand access to rural broadband nationwide and speed up the distribution of the Federal Communication Commission's (FCC) Rural Digital Opportunity Fund (RDOF). The Rural Broadband Acceleration Act also directs the FCC to adhere to the Universal Service requirement in federal law, which is a joint responsibility for the federal and state governments. The Universal Service requirement states that all people in rural areas must have access to telecommunications and information services that are reasonably comparable, in both speed and price, to the services in urban areas. Thus, this legislation will allow rural America to have the same level of broadband service enjoyed by cities and suburbs across the country. Expanding Markets for Ohio Farmers & Small Businesses. As a former U.S. Trade Representative, Portman continues to be a leading voice in the Senate on trade policy, working to ensure a level playing field for American workers and create more jobs for Ohio farmers and small businesses. This year, he worked to advance those priorities in a number of ways, including: Portman emerged as a leading advocate for the U.S.-Mexico-Canada (USMCA) Trade Agreement, which was ratified by the U.S. Senate on January 17th, 2020. The modernized trade agreement will create at least 176,000 new jobs, expand opportunities for agricultural trade, encourage new opportunities for auto jobs in America, and add a new section on digital trade to make online sales. Portman touted the trade pact's new and enforceable environmental and labor standards, a new section on digital trade, expanded opportunities for agricultural trade, and new opportunities for auto jobs in America. Portman touted the phase one trade agreement with China signed by President Trump on January 15th, 2020. Portman, who has taken on China's unfair trade practices for more than a decade, highlighted the agreement as a good first step towards rectifying unfair trade imbalances and creating a more balanced and durable economic relationship between the United States and China. In June 2020, Portman penned a letter urging the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) to side with American workers and fully and fairly enforce U.S. trade remedy laws. The letter, which was co-led by Senator Brown, pressed the ITC to give full and fair consideration to the United Steelworker's petitions in these cases of unfairly traded imports. In November 2020, Portman testified before the ITC and urged them to support an extension of the current Section 201 safeguard for washing machines. Portman has fought against unfair trade practices that have harmed Whirlpool and sent a letter to the ITC in October urging them to thoughtfully consider Whirlpool's request to extend and strengthen the safeguard to maximize its benefits for the domestic industry and its workers. Portman continued his years long effort to reform international trade and commerce by introducing a bipartisan resolution expressing support for U.S. leadership in the World Trade Organization (WTO) while also calling for reform to parts of the institution. In January 2020, Portman visited Lebanon, Ohio to participate in a workforce roundtable discussion hosted by the United Way of Warren County at Fecon, manufacturer of vegetation management machinery. Other participants included students, employees who have got through their program, and local employers. The discussion highlighted expanding access to workforce skills training and how Portman's bipartisan JOBS Act legislation will help more Ohioans get the skills and training they need to find in-demand jobs as well as the economic benefits of two trade agreements: the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Trade Agreement, and the phase one trade agreement with China signed by President Trump. On July 15th, 2020, Portman visited Ford Lima Engine Plant and met leadership and employees to discuss the new U.S.-Mexico-Canada (USMCA) Trade Agreement and how it will create new jobs, and encourage new opportunities for American manufacturing. Protecting American Taxpayers. Portman has a long history of working to reform the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). For instance, on July 1, 2019, President Trump signed the Taxpayer First Act into law - bipartisan legislation that included a number of Portman's legislative priorities. Over the course of this year, Portman built on his past success with two significant efforts: As Chairman of the Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations (PSI), Portman led a bipartisan investigation into the Internal Revenue Service's (IRS) Free File Program, which provides free online tax preparation and filing services to U.S. taxpayers. The probe culminated with the release of a bipartisan staff memo detailing the lack of IRS oversight of the Free File program. As a result, the memo noted, American taxpayers may not be aware of the program or taking advantage of it. This could result in eligible taxpayers paying fees to file their taxes. Securing Funding for Key Ohio Economic Priorities. Senator Portman has worked with the Trump administration to ensure that Ohio has access to competitive grant opportunities in order to strengthen efforts to improve the economy and job creation around the state. This year, Portman worked alongside the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to announce several grant awards for Ohio including; $1.9 million to help support Lake County's Laketran Project; $13.8 million in grant funding to six Ohio rail systems for consolidated rail infrastructure and safety improvement programs; a $1.9 million University Transportation Centers (UTC) grant to The Ohio State University for their work to advance transportation research and technology; $14.7 million to help reconstruct and repair airports' taxiways and runways in Ohio; $23.6 million in funding as part of the Better Utilizing Investment to Leverage Development (BUILD) competitive grant program for the Toledo Metropolitan Area Council of Government; $15 million in funding as part of the BUILD competitive grant program for Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority; and $4.4 million to the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) to help support the Interstate 70 truck automation corridor. Portman worked alongside the U.S. Department of Commerce to ensure cities and towns in Ohio had the resources they needed including; $3.7 million to the Greene County Board of Commissioners to assist the region with recovery efforts from the 2019 Memorial Day Tornadoes; $132,500 to the Eastgate Regional Council of Governments to help with conducting a broadband feasibility study; and $3.6 million for the city of Dayton to help purchase and establish new electric generators needed to upgrade water system infrastructure. In order to ensure Ohio has the adequate resources to ensure a culture of preparedness, Portman worked with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to secure grant funding, including; A $10.1 million grant to help Ohio assist state, local, tribal and territorial governments in preparing for all hazards, as authorized by Congress; and $1.6 million to help fund Ohio's security efforts along Ohio's northern border. Portman worked with the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) to ensure Ohioans had the resources they need to protect themselves and our schools including; More than $35 million in federal grants from the Office for Victims of Crime, a component of the DOJ's Office of Justice Programs; and more than $320,000 in federal funding for school safety through its School Violence Prevention Program. Earlier this year, Portman announced thatthe U.S. Department of Agriculture has allocated nearly $2.5 million in federal funding through its Rural Development Water and Waste Disposal Loan and Grant Program to improve the Village of Rio Grande's 84-year-old wastewater treatment facility. In addition, he announced that the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has awarded Vantage Aging in Akron, Ohio a nearly $2.3 million Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP) grant to provide career services and training services to low-income older individuals who seek to enter or re-enter the workforce. In an effort to help lower income students, Portman announced that the U.S. Department of Education (DOE) has awarded seven higher education schools in Ohio nearly $3 million in Strengthening Institutions Program (SIP) grants. Combating America's Opioid Epidemic No one in the Senate has been more active in the fight against drug addiction than Senator Portman. He continues to lead the national effort to combat the opioid crisis that is devastating communities. As part of his efforts to help Ohio, Portman has worked to help stop the influx of synthetic drugs like fentanyl, expand access to treatment programs that are so critical to an effective recovery, and secure additional funding for evidenced-based Comprehensive Addiction & Recovery Act (CARA) programs focused on prevention, treatment, recovery, and first responders. In addition, Portman worked tosecure $1 billionin new funding for state grants to fight opioid abuse in the21st Century CURES Act.He's also fought for more overall opioid funding, and helped secure more than $4 billionin new opioid funding over the last few years between CARA, CURES and other opioid programs. Portman has also been at the forefront of addressing the changes faces of addiction in Ohio and around the country. In response to increasing reports of overdose deaths in Ohio due to psychostimulants like methamphetamine and cocaine both often laced with fentanyl Senator Portman introduced and successfully foug",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://chabot.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=401085,Congressional Freedom of the Press Caucus Co-Chairs Schiff and Chabot Denounce Sentencing of Chinese Journalist Reporting on COVID-19 Pandemic,2020-12-30,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,OH,Steven Chabot,C000266,chabot.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. Today, Representatives Steve Chabot (R-OH) and Adam Schiff (D-CA), Co-Chairs of the Congressional Freedom of the Press Caucus, released a statement following the sentencing of Zhang Zhan, a Chinese citizen journalist who reported from Wuhan during the early days of the coronavirus pandemic:We are deeply concerned by the recent conviction of Zhang Zhan for her reporting on the early handling of the coronavirus outbreak in Wuhan last winter, the Co-Chairs said. Ms. Zhang's photos and short video clips uploaded to WeChat, Twitter, and YouTube documented the harsh reality of life in Wuhan during lockdown in the early days of the virus, informing the Chinese people and the world about the extent of the crisis at a critical time. We are alarmed at the treatment of Ms. Zhang and call on PRC authorities to immediately release her and all others detained in connection with sharing news about the coronavirus. On December 28, Zhang Zhan was sentenced to four years in jail by the Shanghai Pudong People's Court for picking quarrels and provoking trouble. She is accused of spreading false information and accepting media interviews with foreign outlets. Her lawyer reports that Ms. Zhang has been on a hunger strike since June and was force-fed via a nasal tube while shackled in prison. Other citizen journalists who reported on the situation in Wuhan have gone missing or been under close surveillance for months. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://fudge.house.gov/press-statements?ID=0D82107A-05DE-4F19-8383-E10E558A4C21,Rep. Fudge Announces 2020 Winners of the 11th District Congressional App Challenge,2020-12-30,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,OH,Marcia Fudge,F000455,fudge.house.gov,,,legacy,"Facebook Icon Google Plus Icon Instagram Icon LinkedIn Icon Twitter Icon YouTube Icon Vimeo Icon Clients Icon Email icon Map Icon Print Icon Quote Icon icon_share Carousel Arrow - Left Carousel Arrow - Right Home News Press Statements Print",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.brown.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/brown-senate-floor-2000-direct-payments-ohioans,"Brown Takes to Senate Floor to Demand Swift Senate Action on $2,000 Direct Payments for Ohioans",2020-12-30,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,OH,Sherrod Brown,B000944,www.brown.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Download Production Quality Video HERE WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH) took to the Senate floor as he continues to call for a quick Senate vote on increasing direct payments to Ohioans struggling amid the COVID-19 pandemic from $600 to $2,000. The House passed legislation on Monday increasing the amount to $2,000, and the legislation has the support of Senators in both parties and President Trump. Brown is calling on Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) to take quick action on the House-passed legislation. It's pretty simple: the best way to help Ohio workers and families is to put more money in their pockets not in the bank accounts of the largest corporations and the biggest banks, hoping it will trickle down. We need to invest directly in the people who make this country work, said Brown. Brown's remarks, as prepared for delivery can be found below: There is one simple question before the Senate this week: are we going to put more money in people's pockets? The American people made it clear in this election that they want a government that's on their side. This is our chance to deliver for them to show the people we serve that we can make a real difference in their lives. It's pretty simple: the best way to help Ohio workers and families is to put more money in their pockets not in the bank accounts of the largest corporations and the biggest banks, hoping it will trickle down. We know it never does. CEOs just pay themselves instead. We need to invest directly in the people who make this country work. It helps people pay the bills, stay in their homes, and get through this downturn. And it injects money into local economies that desperately need it the more money people have, the more they can spend at small businesses that are hurting right now. We know this works it did in the spring. We came together, across the aisle, and we passed the CARES Act, with expanded UI and direct stimulus checks. We kept 13 million people out of poverty, and we gave millions more peace of mind, with a bit of a cushion to weather this crisis. The bill we passed last week was a good step in that direction but we can make it even stronger. Back in March, my original plan called for bigger checks for more people $2,000 per person, adults and children. And we called for them to be sent automatically throughout the year, every quarter, as long as we remained in a public health emergency. It's clear now, that's what we should have done no one could predict how long this crisis would last, and today, we still aren't certain when everyone will be vaccinated and when the economy will return to full strength. We don't have to sit idly by and wonder how bad it could get. We are the strongest, richest country on earth we have the resources to do something about it. We just need leadership willing to use every tool we have. If they refuse to support this, Leader McConnell and Senate Republicans will make it painfully clear for the American people whose side they're on. They had no problem pouring money into corporations' coffers with their tax cut, and blowing up the deficit. They were all too happy to let the government shovel loans to the biggest banks and companies. But in the middle of the worst crisis of our lifetimes, faced with the chance to give money directly to ordinary Americans, they claim we can't afford it. That's a lie. Again, we are the richest country on earth. I remember what the economist Bill Spriggs told the Banking and Housing Committee in September we didn't win WWII by worrying about whether or not we could afford it. We were in a global crisis and we marshalled all of our vast resources and talent to rise to meet it and then we grew the economy from the middle class out, and we paid down the debt with rising wages. And if we've learned anything from this crisis, it should be that we can do the same again. Americans are tired of being told we can't. That's the only answer Leader McConnell and Congressional Republicans ever have for most people's problems we can't help you, we can't solve problems, you're on your own. Let's aim higher. Let's deliver for the people we serve. Let's put $2,000 in their pockets money that will make such a difference for so many families. It will help a mother worried about how she'll pay back rent. It will keep a laid-off restaurant worker from turning to a payday lender. It will allow a father to buy a new computer, so his kids are better able to learn online. There are millions of real people people we swore an oath to serve who would breathe a little easier this New Years, if we pass this. So let's be very clear about the decision before the Senate: are you going to give the people you serve $2,000, or are you going to stand in the way? It's that simple. Let's come together, let's pass this, and let's make a real difference in people's lives. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.brown.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/portman-brown-bipartisan-legislation-rename-nasas-plum-brook-station-test-facility-neil-armstrong,"Portman, Brown Announce Bipartisan Legislation to Rename NASAs Plum Brook Station Test Facility After Neil Armstrong Signed Into Law",2020-12-30,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,OH,Sherrod Brown,B000944,www.brown.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC Today, U.S. Senators Rob Portman (R-OH) and Sherrod Brown (D-OH) announced that President Trump has signed into law their bipartisan legislation to rename NASA's Plum Brook Station, the agency's test facility in Sandusky, Ohio, after Neil Armstrong. Portman and Brown introduced the legislation last year. Plum Brook is part of the NASA Glenn Research Center. Ithouses unique world-class facilities that conduct critical and innovative ground tests for the international aerospace community. From his service as a Navy fighter pilot, to his courageous experiments as a test pilot, to his space exploration and first step on the surface of the Moon, Neil Armstrong left an indelible mark in mankind's history of flight.In all his accomplishments, he considered himself first and foremost a test pilot who pushed the boundaries of what was possible in the air and in space, Senator Portman said. Neil was a humble and patriotic Ohioan who believed the honor of serving his country was a reward in and of itself. That's why, when I asked him the year before he passed away whether he wanted me to pursue naming Plum Brook after him, he demurred. But he was a strong supporter of Plum Brook Station and the important simulations and testing being done there, and I believe it is precisely because of his humility, coupled with his unparalleled accomplishments, that the renaming is appropriate.In consultation with his family and NASA, Senator Brown and I introduced this legislation last year and I applaud President Trump for signing this legislation into law as a fitting tribute to Armstrongs amazing accomplishments in air and in space. Before Neil Armstrong became the first person to step foot on the moon, he was an up-and-coming test pilot in northeast Ohio at what is now known as the NASA John H. Glenn Research Center. I'm pleased to join Sen. Portman in honoring Ohio-native Neil Armstrong by renaming NASA Glenn's Plum Brook Station in Sandusky for a man who inspires future Ohioans to continue our state's tradition of breaking barriers in space,said Senator Brown, who nowoccupiesthe late Ohio Senator and astronaut John Glenn's old office in Washington, DC. NOTE: In July of 2019, in advance of the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing, Portman and Brown announced their intention to rename the facility. Prior to the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing, Portman paid tribute to his friend, Ohio-native Neil Armstrong in a video, as well as on the Senate floor. In August of 2019, Portman accompanied NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine in a visit to NASA's Glenn Research Center at Lewis Field in Cleveland and Plum Brook Station in Sandusky to view progress on the agency's Artemis Program -- its multi-year plan to return American astronauts to the Moon and eventually send manned missions to Mars. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://stivers.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=403079,Statement from Rep. Stivers,2020-12-28,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,OH,Steve Stivers,S001187,stivers.house.gov,,,legacy,"Statement from Rep. Stivers f t # e Washington, December 28, 2020 The following may be attributed to Representative Steve Stivers (R-OH) regarding the override of the veto of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA): For decades, people on both sides of the aisle have put aside their differences for the sake of the men and women who serve our nation, Stivers said. While it's disappointing that the President let a political disagreement stand in the way of the well-being of our troops, I was proud to join my Republican and Democratic colleagues to let our soldiers, sailors, airmen, and Marines know that we have their backs. -30-",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/beatty-backs-bill-to-expand-covid-19-stimulus-payments,Beatty Backs Bill to Expand COVID-19 Stimulus Payments,2020-12-28,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,OH,Joyce Beatty,B001281,beatty.house.gov,beatty,https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (OH-03) issued the following statement ahead of the anticipated vote in the U.S. House of Representatives on the Caring for Americans with Supplemental Help Act of 2020, H.R. 9051: ""After seven months of distraction, distortion, and denials, the White House has finally come to its senses and conceded that American workers, families, and small businesses are hurting and in need of much greater assistance than the Trump Administration previously cared to admit. That is why I call on all Congressional Republicans to join with Congressional Democrats and pass the Caring for Americans with Supplemental Help Act to increase stimulus payments immediately so that our constituents can get the help they so desperately need."" If enacted, H.R. 9051 would increase the value of the second round of Economic Impact Payments from $600 to $2,000 per eligible member of the household. Additionally, the bill would provide that the second round of Economic Impact Payments will include non-child dependents and that non-child dependents will be included in the first round of Economic Impact Payments as well.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://wenstrup.house.gov/updates/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=404579,Wenstrup Statement on Non-Offset Relief Payments,2020-12-28,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,OH,Brad Wenstrup,W000815,wenstrup.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.Today, Congressman Brad Wenstrup (OH-02) issued the following statement after voting on the CASH Act of 2020: The recently-passed bipartisan, bicameral COVID relief legislation provided targeted assistance to the American people in the form of direct cash payments, enhanced unemployment insurance, and an expanded earned income tax credit. There may be room for additional assistance in the coming months, and it should come in the form of more precisely targeted relief to those most in need as well as efforts to get individuals back to work, rather than blanket benefits for many who may not need them but qualify based off outdated data. According to the Joint Committee on Taxation, the CASH Act would cost $463.8 billion in taxpayer funding. With that sum, we could increase assistance to our small businesses that are struggling through the Paycheck Protection Program, increase direct food assistance to needy families, and increase resources to distributePPE to frontline healthcare workers and the vaccine to all Americans who want it. Should the Speaker wish to pass this legislation, she should offset it with the President's request to rescind certain foreign aid funding. However, without such an offset, I could not support this additional deficit spending.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://wenstrup.house.gov/updates/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=404580,Wenstrup Votes to Enact Defense Authorization Bill,2020-12-28,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,OH,Brad Wenstrup,W000815,wenstrup.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.Today, Congressman Brad Wenstrup (OH-02) issued the following statement after voting to advance into law the FY 2021 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA): Our nation's servicemembers make countless sacrifices to protect the American people. We must provide our warfighters with the tools and resources necessary to carry out their missions and keep them safe. This legislation also addresses growing global challenges, from countering China's increasing aggression to strengthening our nation's cybersecurity capabilities. At the same time, I share President Trump's interest in reviewing the Communications Decency Act of 1996, and specifically Section 230. The Internet economy has grown beyond anything imagined in the 1990s, and it is the responsibility of legislators to ensure that our laws are keeping up with society and the tech companies that have come to dominate our economy and public discourse. Congressman Wenstrup was named a conferee to the FY 2021 NDAA Conference Committee andhad two amendments included in the final text. He also serves as a colonel in the U.S. Army Reserve. He served a tour in Iraq from 2005-2006 as a combat surgeon and was awarded a Bronze Star and Combat Action Badge for his service.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/news-articles/ohio-police-officer-who-fatally-shot-black-man-47-did-not-turn-bodycam-on,"Ohio police officer who fatally shot Black man, 47, did not turn bodycam on",2020-12-23,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,OH,Joyce Beatty,B001281,beatty.house.gov,,,legacy,"The Ohio police officer who fatally shot a 47-year-old Black man has been relieved of duty in Columbus after it was discovered he did not turn on his body camera during the incident. The city's second fatal police shooting in just one month has shocked the entire community. Mayor Andrew J. Ginther, addressing the shooting on Twitter, called the community still raw and exhausted from the killings of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and, most recently, Casey Goodson, Jr., right here in Columbus. (Photo by Kirk Irwin/Getty Images) On Twitter, Mayor Andrew J. Ginther expressed it. Our community is still raw and exhausted from the killings of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and, most recently, Casey Goodson, Jr., right here in Columbus, he wrote. The officer involved did not turn on their body-worn camera which is unacceptable, Ginther tweeted. The officer involved has been relieved of duty, requiring him to turn in his badge and gun, stripping him of police powers pending the outcome of the criminal and internal investigations. The shooting occurred early Tuesday morning, at 1:37 a.m., when an unidentified man holding a cellphone inside a friend's garage was shot by the also-unnamed officer, who was among a pair responding to a noise complaint. A neighbor called the police because the man was sitting in a car turning the engine of an SUV on and off. The two officers were responding to a non-emergency call, so they did not turn on lights or sirens, which would have triggered filming inside their patrol call. The shooting is being investigated by the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation. A look back function on the officer's camera automatically turned on, obtaining 60 seconds of video with no audio after the incident. The short captured video shows there was a delay in rendering of first-aid to the man, according to the statement from the Columbus Police Department. Neither officer who responded to the call turned on their body cameras, but only the officer who fired the fatal shot has been suspended. This police-involved shooting occurred less than three weeks after Franklin County Sheriff's Deputy Jason Meade fatally shot 23-year-old Casey Goodson Jr., an incident that sparked Columbus protests. A probe into that killing has also been launched. There are not enough words to express the pain and anger I feel that another Black man has been killed in our community at the hands of law enforcement in less than a month, Ohio Rep. Joyce Beatty, the congresswoman whose district contains Columbus and its suburbs, said in a statement Tuesday. While we do not know all of the facts, what I do know is that this is unacceptable. Beatty said she's greatly concerned and call into question police procedures as well as the timing and inconsistent use of body cameras. Columbus Police Chief Thomas Quinlan called the shooting a tragedy on many levels. Our community deserves the facts, Quinlan said in a news release. If evidence determines that laws or policies were violated, officers will be held accountable. This article was originally published by The Grio on December 23, 2020.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.brown.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/a-year-in-review-senator-brown-working-for-ohioans,A Year in Review Senator Brown Working for Ohioans,2020-12-23,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,OH,Sherrod Brown,B000944,www.brown.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Over the last year, U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH) has worked to protect Ohioans' health and safety and their economic security amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. He led efforts to get healthcare providers, essential workers and working families the resources they need as we all continue fighting to get the pandemic under control. And he helped secure critical provisions in COVID relief packages to halt evictions, secure rental assistance, increase unemployment insurance benefits, and provide financial relief to small businesses that are struggling. This year, Brown worked with Republicans and Democrats to introduce more than 100 bills more than 37 of which he introduced with Senator Portman. Brown successfully sent several bipartisan bills to President Trump's desk to become law, including hisProtecting Nonprofits from Catastrophic Cash Flow Strain Act, which will help nonprofits, state and local governments and federally recognized Tribes remain financially viable during the COVID-19 pandemic, and his bill to reauthorize the Healthy Start Program, which aims to reduce the national infant mortality rate. Brown's African American Burial Grounds Network Act, which would set up a voluntary, nationwide network of African American burial grounds, passed the Senate and is expected to be signed into law before the end of the year. Brown also secured a number of year-end wins in the government funding package passed by the Senate that included badly-needed COVID relief for Ohio. Brown secured provisions to end surprise medical bills, protect seniors from out-of-pocket costs for preventive colonoscopies, permanently lower taxes on craft beverages, fund Ohio's military installations, invest in NASA and in ongoing cleanup at the Piketon plant. As part of the COVID-relief package, Brown also helped secure rental and utility assistance, stimulus checks for Ohioans, 11 additional weeks of unemployment benefits and funding for small businesses and healthcare providers. While Brown led by example and didn't hold in-person events amid the pandemic, he held129 virtual events with groups from across Ohio, listening to their priorities and fighting for them in Washington. Brown also hosted a weekly Facebook Live session on his Facebook page every Wednesday to keep Ohioans up-to-date. Since his election to the U.S. Senate, Brown has held 386 roundtables across Ohio and held public events in each of Ohio's 88 counties. In 2020, Brown and his office hosted the inaugural statewide Black Women's Health Symposium virtually, created to address the disparities in health that Black women have faced throughout our country's history. Brown also hosted several of his annual summer manufacturing camps online, the eighth year of the camps. In December, Brown delivered opening remarks for the first virtual event in the My Brother's Keeper Ohio's (MBK Ohio)leadership series. Here's a look at more of Brown's work on behalf of Ohio in 2020 and what's ahead next year, including working to get critical COVID relief to Ohioans, continuing the fight for racial justice and securing the pensions of thousands of Ohio retirees. BROWN EFFORTS TO KEEP OHIOANS SAFE, PROVIDE RELIEF TO WORKING FAMILIES DURING COVID-19 PANDEMIC COVID-Relief Packages Brown voted to support all three COVID-relief packages that passed the Senate while continually calling on Congress to do more to help Ohioans in need. Brown helped secure key Ohio wins in each package, including dedicated funding for Ohio, funding for smaller lenders to provide loans to Ohio communities, funding for COVID testing and rental assistance and eviction moratoria. Eviction Moratoriums Brown made it a priority to ensure families and individuals have access to stable housing amid the COVID-19 pandemic. In June, he introduced the Protecting Renters from Evictions and Fees Act, which would extend the federal eviction moratorium to March 27, 2021, one year after the date of enactment of the CARES Act, and expands the moratorium to cover substantially all renters. The bill also prohibits fees, fines, and extra charges due to nonpayment of rent.Brown was able to secure an extension of the federal eviction moratorium in the year-end funding package that passed the House and Senate. Rental Assistance Brownfought all year for more protections for renterswho are disproportionally impacted by the Coronavirus pandemic andcalledformore reliefto be provided for renters andhomeownersinCoronavirus relief packages. In May, he introduced theEmergency Rental Assistance and Rental Market Stabilization Act of 2020, which would establish an Emergency Rental Assistance program to provide $100 billion in emergency rental assistance to help families and individuals pay their rent and remain housed during and after the Coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis. Brown helped secure $25 billion for rental and utility assistance for renters in the year-end funding package passed by Congress. Worker Safety and Heroes Pay Throughout the pandemic, Brown has called on corporations to protect the health and safety of frontline workers and pay them what they deserve as they put themselves at risk to keep the economy going. In May, Brown released a plan to keep Ohioans safe, protect workers and reopen the economy safely. In April, Brown unveiled his Heroes Fund' proposal, to help reward, retain and recruit essential workers who are on the frontlines of this pandemic.Brown also released a planin March for addressing the shortage of personal protective equipment (PPE) needed by healthcare workers on the frontline of keeping Americans healthy and safe during the coronavirus pandemic. Brown joined several of his Senate Democratic colleagues in urging President Trump to use his existing DPA authority to help address widespread shortages of medical equipment, as a result of the COVID-19 outbreak. The President never fully invoked the authority. State and Local Government Funding Brown has led efforts to secure more resources for local governments in Ohio that are hurting and struggling to pay for necessary services like police, fire and public safety or vaccine distribution amid the economic downturn caused by the pandemic. In December, Brown helped introduce bipartisan legislation, the State and Local Coronavirus Relief Fund Extension Act which would extend the current year-end deadline for states and local governments to use federalCARES Actassistance from the Coronavirus Relief Fund until December 31, 2021. Under the CARES Act, federal funding from the Coronavirus Relief Fund will be recouped by the Treasury if not spent by the end of the year.In April, Brown wrote to Senate Leaders calling for robust, dedicated and flexible funding for state and local governments as well as flexibility on how existing CARES Act funding may be spent. Brown also pushed for state and local government funding to be included in the year-end package, but was rejected by Senate Republicans who hold the majority. Paid Sick Leave In March, Brown introduced new, emergency paid sick days legislation building off theHealthy Families Act(HFA), to provide paid sick days immediately to Ohio workers in light of the coronavirus crisis, and in preparation for future public health emergencies.This legislation, thePaid Sick Days for Public Health Emergencies and Personal Family Care Act, would require all employers to allow workers to accrue seven days of paid sick days and to provide an additional 14 days available immediately in the event of any public health emergency, including the current coronavirus crisis. Combatting Racial Disparities in COVID-19 The COVID-19 pandemic revealed how racial disparities in healthcare disproportionately harm Black and brown Ohioans. In May, Brown announced theCOVID-19Racial and Ethnic Disparities Task Force Act, legislation to bring together health care and other policy experts, community-based organizations, and community leaders to confront the racial and ethnic disparities of the coronavirus pandemic head on.The bill would require the Department of Health and Human Services to establish an interagency task force of policy experts, community leaders, and government officials to make data-driven recommendations to federal agencies about directing crucial resourceslike testing kits, testing supplies, and personal protective equipment (PPE)to communities with racial and ethnic disparities in COVID-19 infection, hospitalization and death rates. Brown also introduced the first-of-its-kind Senate Resolution declaring racism as a public health crisis. The resolution acknowledges the history of racism and discrimination within health care and the systemic barriers that people of color continue to face when seeking care. The resolution also highlights the effects of systemic racism on the health and wellness of communities of color, resulting in shorter life expectancy, worsened health outcomes, and enhanced exposure to harmful or dangerous environments. Direct Payments Recognizing the financial strain created by the coronavirus pandemic, Brown was one of the first senators to push for direct payments to Americans. In March, Brown sent a letter to Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer outlining a bold new proposal to provide Americans with direct cash payments. Brown also secured important victories for Ohioans when he successfully pushed the Treasury Department to automatically send direct payments to Social Security beneficiaries and SSI recipients without forcing them to fill out a separate tax return. SECURING LEGISLATIVE VICTORIES FOR OHIOANS National Defense Authorization Act In the annual National Defense Authorization Act, Brown secured the following wins for Ohio servicemembers, veterans, military families and defense installations: $58 million for military construction projects at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base $15 million authorization for military construction to support a new Army Guard Readiness Center at the Rickenbacker Air National Guard Base An additional $375 million for a total of $1.1 billion to support the Stryker A1 vehicles manufactured at Lima's Joint Systems Manufacturing Center (JSMC) and $1.4 billion for Abrams Tank upgrades and modifications Historic, comprehensive anti-money laundering and corporate transparency reforms An amendment to expand the list of medical conditions associated with Agent Orange exposure GLRI Funding In December, the Senate unanimously passed legislation co-sponsored by Brown that will reauthorize the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI) for another five years and increase authorized funding for the program from $300 million annually to $475 million annually by fiscal year 2026. The bill now heads to the President's desk to be signed into law. Broadband Access In December, Brown applauded an announcement by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) that it will invest $170,038,205 to expand broadband access to more than 400,000 rural Ohioans.Brown introduced legislation with Sen. Rob Portman (R-OH) earlier this year, the Rural Broadband Acceleration Act, that would speed up the process of getting these types of investments from the FCC to Ohio communities faster. Mahoning Valley Scrappers In November, Brown applauded an announcement from Major League Baseball (MLB) and Prep Baseball Report (PBR) that they will be working together to form an MLB Draft League starting in 2021, a program that will save the Mahoning Valley Scrappers and keep baseball in the Valley. Brown led Congressional efforts to pressure MLB to do the right thing and save the Scrappers, after MLB identified the Scrappers as a team facing cuts from its club-affiliated minor league system aspart of itsnegotiationsover an updated agreement with the MiLB. SERVING OHIOANS Brown's office is here to help Ohioans whether it is seeking trade relief for Ohio companies, drawing investment and jobs to the state, or helping veterans get their medals. Brown's office routinely works on behalf of Ohioans for help with federal agencies from the IRS to the VA. Below is a sample of successful casework stories of Ohioans who reached out to Brown's Office this year for assistance: An Ohioan from Union County needed assistance obtaining the set of medals their late father earned serving our nation in uniform. Following an inquiry from Sen. Brown's office to the National Personnel Records Center, the constituent received the Bronze Star Medal, European-African-European-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal w/1 Bronze Service Star, WWII Victory Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge 1st Award, and the Honorable Service Lapel Button WWII. An Ohioan from Hamilton County was seeking assistance with obtaining student loan forgiveness because they were a victim of identity theft. Senator Brown's office helped facilitate communication on the constituent's behalf with the U.S. Department of Education, and the agency discharged their student loans. Ohioans can reach out to Brown's help with federal matters by visiting his website here or calling his Cleveland office at 216-522-7272. WHAT'S AHEAD Brown will continue to work to improve the lives of Ohioans and strengthen communities throughout the state. Here's a look ahead at Brown's priorities for 2021 and beyond: Securing Additional COVID-19 Relief Brown will continue fighting for resources for healthcare providers and frontline workers who are putting their health and safety at risk to help us all get through the pandemic. The Senator will push for extended unemployment benefits, rental assistance, increased funding for testing and vaccine distribution and funding for small businesses and local governments in any future package. Delivering Results for Ohio Workers In June in an open letter, Brown called on corporations to invest in their workers, who they claim to recognize as essential. Six months later, little has changed. Brown will work with the Biden Administration to deliver results where Wall Street and corporate CEOs have failed, working to protect workers on the job, raise the minimum wage, enact a paid family leave plan, crack down on the exploitive independent contractor business model, invest in American infrastructure that puts people to work at good wages, and build an economy that reflects our values and the Dignity of Work. Fighting for Racial Justice Brown will join Ohioans fighting for racial justice for Ohioans, by working for a fairer criminal justice system, honoring the Dignity of Work by championing equal economic opportunity and equal access to housing, increasing access to voting and addressing racial disparities in healthcare and basic services, especially in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. Combatting Infant Mortality Brown continues working to reduce infant mortality rates in Ohio and eliminate the racial disparities in infant mortality rates. Right now, Black infants are more than 2.8 times as likely to die as white infants. Brown will reintroduce a number of bills to reduce the infant mortality rate in Ohio, including his Healthy Maternal and Obstetric Medicine(Healthy MOM) Act, which would ensure that all women eligible for coverage through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) insurance marketplaces, as well as women eligible for other individual or group health plan coverage, can access affordable health coverage throughout their pregnancies. Honoring Our Pension Promises Brown has long led efforts to secure financial security for the more than a million American workers and retirees who are in danger of losing the pensions they've earned. According to a recentreport, the Multiemployer Program remains severely underfunded with liabilities of more than $66 billion. The PBGC is the arm of the federal government that insures pension plans, and the Multiemployer Program is highly likely to become insolvent by 2026 at the latest. Brown continues working to find a bipartisan solution to the overall pension crisis that faces 60,000 Ohioans, as well as thousands of small businesses across the country. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/news-articles/1618-ohio-lawmakers-vote-for-covid-19-relief,16/18 Ohio Lawmakers Vote For COVID-19 Relief,2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,OH,Joyce Beatty,B001281,beatty.house.gov,,,legacy,"The majority of Ohio's lawmakers joined the majority of Congress in voting for a coronavirus relief deal and a government funding package on Monday, eight months since Congress last took action. What You Need To Know Congress passed COVID-19 relief and government funding bills on Monday Most Ohio lawmakers said the deals were needed Democrats and Republicans are divided over what the New Year should bring Only two of Ohio's 18 members of Congress voted against the bills Representatives Jim Jordan (R, 4th Congressional District) and Warren Davidson (R, 8th Congressional District). On Monday afternoon, several members spoke from the House floor. It still falls short of what we need to get through this crisis, but I will continue to stand up for my constituents of the 3rd Congressional District, Rep. Joyce Beatty (D, 3rd Congressional District) said. While I'm relieved that Congress is finally acting on those cries for help, I'm dismayed that it's taken this long, Rep. Steve Chabot (R, 1st Congressional District) said. The $900 billion COVID-19 relief bill will include $600 stimulus checks for most Americans who received the last round of direct payments, a temporary $300/week boost to unemployment benefits, it will bring back the Paycheck Protection program for small businesses, and it will provide more money for vaccine distribution, rental assistance and schools. Ohio Democrats say it's a bridge to the New Year. This was not enough that we're doing today, it's a down payment. It's way better than nothing. It will mean people get some help, but this isn't going to do what we did in March, Senator Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio) said in a virtual interview Monday afternoon. Ohio Republicans say they will wait to see if this could be enough, or if more relief will be needed. I don't want to give people government checks all the time, I want them to go get jobs and earn a living, Rep. Steve Stivers (R, 15th Congressional District) said in a virtual interview Monday night. The problem is we shut down the economy before, and so now we have to deal with that and try to bring it back. But the most important thing to me is to get this economy moving. The House and Senate also passed a $1.4 trillion government funding package that keeps the government open through September. President Trump is expected to sign both into law. This article was originally published by Spectrum News 1 on December 22, 2020.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/beatty-statement-on-officer-involved-shooting-in-northwest-columbus,Beatty Statement on Officer-Involved Shooting in Northwest Columbus,2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,OH,Joyce Beatty,B001281,beatty.house.gov,beatty,https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"COLUMBUS, OH — U.S. Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (OH-03) issues the following statement on the fatal shooting this morning in Columbus' Northwest side: ""There are not enough words to express the pain and anger I feel that another Black man has been killed in our community at the hands of law enforcement in less than a month. While we do not know all of the facts, what I do know is that this is unacceptable. I am greatly concerned and call into question police procedures as well as the timing and inconsistent use of body cameras. I stand with the community in seeking the truth and demanding justice. My condolences go out to the family and friends of the victim.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://chabot.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=401084,Ranking Member Chabot: Its Time for Congress to Pass Small Business Relief,2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,OH,Steven Chabot,C000266,chabot.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON - Today, House Committee on Small Business Ranking Member Steve Chabot (R-OH) spoke on the House floor in support of the small business provisions in the COVID relief package. Remarks as prepared for delivery: I thank the gentleman/gentlelady for yielding. Mr./Madam Speaker, for months now, our nation's entrepreneurs and small business owners have been pleading for additional help from Congress. The Fourth Quarter Chamber of Commerce Small Business Index found that nearly three-quarters of small business owners said more federal relief is important for their success in 2021. While I am relieved that Congress is finally acting on those cries for help, I am dismayed that it has taken us this long. I introduced a bill in September that could have been brought to the floor at any time. That bill included many of these same provisions we are voting on today. Instead, the House considered bills about marijuana and online conspiracy theories. It's an embarrassment that it took this long because every moment of delay has put more small businesses at risk of permanent closure. These restaurants, bars, shops, and manufacturers employ nearly half of American workers and form the bedrock of communities across the country. Fortunately, the provisions in today's relief package will bring critical assistance to these small business workers and their families. The Paycheck Protection Program, which has supported over 50 million employees, will be reopened for new and second time applicants. Funds will be reserved for very small businesses and community lenders. The list of eligible expenses will be expanded so that owners can purchase PPE to keep employees and their loved ones safe. There are many more details in the packagetoo many to go into herebut the bottom line is this: these provisions will bring meaningful help to millions of Americans. Just in my own district in Cincinnati and the surrounding area, a PPP loan helped keep 140 employees on the payroll at the Silver Spring House restaurant. A PPP loan enabled HomeWell Care Services, an assisted living facility, to continue their important work for our community's elderly population. Finally, the folks at Neyer Plumbing used PPP funding to carry on as an essential business. These are real people with families to support and bills to pay. That's why it's so important we pass this package without delay. Small businesses and their employees are tough, resilient, and unyielding. Across the country, we hear stories about small businesses giving back to their communities, even when they are struggling themselves. It's time for Congress to meet the moment and get additional help in the hands of working Americans. I urge my colleagues to vote yes on this long overdue legislation. I yield back. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://balderson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1918,"House Passes COVID Relief, Government Funding Package That Includes Multiple Balderson Priorities",2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,OH,Troy Balderson,B001306,balderson.house.gov,balderson,https://balderson.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27&Page=14,scraper,"WASHINGTON – The U.S. House of Representatives today passed bipartisan, bicameral appropriations legislation that authorizes $900 billion in targeted COVID-19 relief for American families, hospitals, small businesses, schools, local governments, and more. The legislation includes multiple of Congressman Troy Balderson’s (R-OH) top priorities, including the ability for small businesses to deduct Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) grants from their upcoming 2020 tax filings. “While long overdue, this legislation does exactly what it needs to do: provide major, critical relief to Ohio’s families, small business employees, rural communities, agriculture sector, and more,” said Balderson. “While I’m pleased my colleagues on both sides of the aisle have finally agreed to this much-needed package, it’s unacceptable to let these disagreements drag out at the expense of Americans’ livelihoods. I hope for more bipartisan lawmaking in the 117th Session of Congress.” Key Balderson priorities incorporated in the omnibus package include: DIRECT PAYMENTS TO AMERICANS Provides economic impact payments of up to $600 for more than 85% of American adults and their dependents SMALL BUSINESS RELIEF Provides $248.5 billion to reopen and strengthen the PPP Enables small businesses to deduct PPP grants from 2020 tax filings Allows small businesses with fewer than 300 employees that received a PPP loan previously to apply for a second loan by demonstrating a 25% decrease in revenue Allocates $20 billion to restart and extend the U.S Small Business Administration’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program Advance Grant for small businesses in low-income communities, and allows prior grantees that received less than $10,000 to reapply Provides $15 billion in funding for entertainment venues, movie theaters, and museums that are experiencing significant revenue loss Includes 501(c)6 organizations such as local chambers of commerce, housing cooperatives, newspapers, broadcasters, and radio stations in eligibility for PPP and ensures churches and faith-based organizations are eligible for PPP loans FUNDING ADDITIONAL VACCINES AND TESTS Allocates $20 billion for the purchase of vaccines and $8 billion for their distribution, making vaccines available at no cost to all Americans who need it Provides $20 billion to assist states, such as Ohio, with testing SUPPORTING LOCAL GOVERNMENTS, INCLUDING IN OHIO Extends the Coronavirus Relief Fund (CRF) for state and local governments and tribes by one year HELPING SCHOOLS AND CHILDCARE PROVIDERS REOPEN Allocates $82 billion for K-12 education and higher education to assist with reopening for in-person learning Provides $10 billion for grants to childcare providers to help them safely reopen UPLIFTING RURAL COMMUNITIES THROUGH BROADBAND CONNECTIVITY, TELEHEALTH, AND COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTERS Puts $7 billion toward the development of rural broadband connectivity, including nearly $2 billion to replace foreign-manufactured broadband equipment that poses national security threats Provides $250 million for the expansion of telehealth options Extends key public health programs for 3 years – such as community health centers – eliminating several funding cliffs over next several years AIDING AMERICA’S AGRICULTURAL SECTOR Provides $13 billion to support America’s farmers and agricultural sector Enhances assistance under the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP) to support specialty crop, non-specialty crop, livestock, dairy, and poultry producers HELPING AMERICANS FIGHT SUBSTANCE ABUSE Allocates $4 billion toward substance abuse programs to help Americans suffering from addiction who were negatively impacted by stay-at-home orders EXPANDING HOUSING AND NUTRITION ASSISTANCE Increases SNAP benefits by 15% for 6 months and requires a report on the redemption rate and unexpended balances Provides $25 billion in temporary and targeted rental assistance for individuals who lost their source of income during the pandemic and extends the eviction moratorium until January 31, 2021 Provides funding for the Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP), a program that serves over 700,000 older Americans monthly See the full bill text here. BACKGROUND Balderson is a member of the House Committees on Small Business; Agriculture; Transportation and Infrastructure; and Science, Space, and Technology. His bipartisan legislation was signed into law on July 4, extending PPP by nearly a month and supporting 51 million jobs nationwide. He has championed bipartisan telehealth expansion and repeatedly pushed for PPP tax deductibility. Balderson has also fought for the expansion of rural broadband internet access and worked to combat the opioid epidemic, which has taken a devastating toll on Ohio. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/beatty-votes-to-pass-covid-19-reliefgovernment-funding-agreement,Beatty Votes to Pass COVID-19 Relief/Government Funding Agreement,2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,OH,Joyce Beatty,B001281,beatty.house.gov,beatty,https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C.—U.S. Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (OH-03), incoming Chair of the powerful Congressional Black Caucus, addressed the nation from the House floor in advance of the vote by the U.S. House of Representatives on H.R. 133, an agreement to fund the federal government and related agencies through Fiscal Year 2021 as well as to provide direct relief to American workers, families, and small businesses struggling to make ends meet during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Beatty's statement reads: ""I rise today to support this legislation because my constituents desperately need unemployment benefits, stimulus checks, food assistance, eviction moratorium, small business relief, minority deposit institutions' and community development financial institutions' assistance, and other important protections in this bill. Seven months after the House passed The Heroes Act, Republicans have finally relented to allow more support to the American people who are struggling through the three pandemics: COVID-19, economic hardship, and social injustice. So, let me be clear: the GOP has had a knee on Americans' necks by holding this bill up, and it still falls short of what we need to get through this crisis. But I will continue to stand up for the constituents of Ohio's Third Congressional District and for people across this nation. And I will work with my colleagues and the Biden Administration to get people the support they need to build back better. Thank you, and I yield back."" An archived recording of Beatty's speech can be viewed on YouTube. # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://fudge.house.gov/press-statements?ID=93820DCB-5D3B-4F25-89BB-DBAD6A15EC0D,Rep. Fudge Supports Coronavirus Relief and Omnibus Package,2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,OH,Marcia Fudge,F000455,fudge.house.gov,,,legacy,"Facebook Icon Google Plus Icon Instagram Icon LinkedIn Icon Twitter Icon YouTube Icon Vimeo Icon Clients Icon Email icon Map Icon Print Icon Quote Icon icon_share Carousel Arrow - Left Carousel Arrow - Right Home News Press Statements Print",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://turner.house.gov/2020/12/turner-advocacy-ends-surprise-medical-billing,TURNER Advocacy Ends Surprise Medical Billing,2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,OH,Michael R. Turner,T000463,turner.house.gov,turner,https://turner.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,,0,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z https://turner.house.gov/2020/12/turner-foster-care-legislation-included-in-omnibus-funding-bill,TURNER Foster Care Legislation Included in Omnibus Funding Bill,2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,OH,Michael R. Turner,T000463,turner.house.gov,turner,https://turner.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,,0,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z https://turner.house.gov/2020/12/turner-supports-oh-10-in-appropriations-and-covid-19-relief-package,TURNER Supports OH-10 in Appropriations and COVID-19 Relief Package,2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,OH,Michael R. Turner,T000463,turner.house.gov,turner,https://turner.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,,0,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z https://wenstrup.house.gov/updates/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=404567,Wenstrup Statement on Surprise Billing/COVID-19 Relief/Spending Package,2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,OH,Brad Wenstrup,W000815,wenstrup.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.Today, Congressman Brad Wenstrup, D.P.M. (OH-02) released the following statement after for the combined Surprise Billing, COVID-19 Relief, and Government Spending package: We have delivered two safe and effective vaccines so far, which will provide us the ultimate pathway forward to ending the pandemic, rebuilding the economy, and restoring our way of life. However, Americans need economic support now, and this legislation delivers that immediate help, including $325 billion to help the hardest-hit small businesses through reopening and improving the Paycheck Protection Program, another round of cash assistance for workers and families, averaging $2,400 for a family of four, and continued support for Americans who have lost their job during this global pandemic. I am also particularly proud to support the provisions that end surprise billing. Patients will no longer receive unexpected bills due to medical procedures or doctor visits. Rather, they will be provided more complete information before having to make health care decisions, will be removed from billing disputes that arise from unplanned or unscheduled care, and will have access to a robust network of doctors who are incentivized to continue seeing patients. Along with the GOP Doctors Caucus, I have championed this issue and fought hard to get it across the finish line. ""Undoubtedly, there are unnecessary provisions in the overall bill. However, our country faces unprecedented circumstances and urgent needs, and I supported this legislation because I know the American people have beencounting on us to deliver relief. ""Now, our work begins to ensure that we are better prepared to address our fiscal, medical, and supply chain challenges. Highlights Courtesy of Republican House Whip Steve Scalise: COVID Relief: Extends the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and adds deductibility for PPP expenses oGives businesses experiencing severe revenue reductions an opportunity to apply for a second draw PPP loan oIncludes 501(c)(6) organizations but excludes unions from eligibility o$15 billion in funding for entertainment venues, movie theaters, and museums that are experiencing significant revenue loss oCodifies federal rules that ensure churches and faith-based organizations are eligible for PPP loans Reopening America o $20 billion for the purchase of vaccines that will make the vaccine available at no charge for anyone who needs it o $8 billion for vaccine distribution o $20 billion to assist states with testing o $20 billion distribution from the existing provider relief fund Ends CARES Act emergency powers for the Federal Reserve oRescinds $429 billion in unused funds provided by the CARES Act for the Federal Reserve's emergency lending facilities and terminates these facilities to ensure that Democrats cannot use these funds to bail out poorly managed blue states Stimulus checks -- $600 for both adults and dependents with safeguards to prohibit illegal aliens from receiving payment Temporarily extends a number of unemployment programs created by CARES Act that expire Dec. 31, 2020 o Provide unemployed individuals an additional $300 per week for 10 weeks from December 26, 2020-March 14, 2021 o Extends and phases-out PUA, which is a temporary federal program covering self-employed and gig workers, to March 14 (after which no new applicants) through April 5, 2021 $10 billion for grants to childcare centers to help providers safely reopen $4 billion for substance abuse significant progress made over the past several years on opioid addiction has been reversed because of the impact of COVID lockdowns $82 billion in funding for schools and universities to assist with reopening for in-person learning that also includes $2.75 billion in designated funds for private K through 12 education $25 billion in temporary and targeted rental assistance for individuals who lost their source of income during the pandemic Extends the eviction moratorium until January 31, 2021 $7 billion in broadband funding that includes Nearly $2 billion to replace foreign-manufactured broadband equipment that poses national security threats $300 million to build out rural broadband $250 million for telehealth $45 billion for transportation, including o $16 billion for another round of airline employee and contractor payroll support o $14 billion for transit o $10 billion for highways o $2 billion for intercity buses o $2 billion for airports o $1 billion for Amtrak Increases SNAP benefits by 15% for six months, but does not expand eligibility, and requires the Secretary to issue a report on redemption rate and unexpended balances Provides funding for the Commodity Supplemental Food Program, a program that serves over 700,000 older Americans monthly $13 billion to support our farmers and agriculture sector Enhances assistance under the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP) to support specialty crop, non-specialty crop, livestock, dairy, and poultry producers Gives discretionary authority to the Secretary to support producers of biofuels, producers of organics or value-added products, and timber harvesting and hauling businesses Additional funding is directed to programs that support local producers and new and beginning farmers, dairy producers, dairy processors via reimbursement for donated dairy products, fisheries, textile mills, agricultural research, small and medium-size meat processors, and to state departments of agriculture for farm stress programs",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://anthonygonzalez.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=309,"Gonzalez, Sherman, Van Hollen Applaud Holding Foreign Companies Accountable Act’s Signing into Law",2020-12-18,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,OH,Anthony Gonzalez,G000588,anthonygonzalez.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today, Congressman Anthony Gonzalez (RRocky River), U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), and Congressmen Brad Sherman (D-Calif.) released the following statements regarding the signing of their bipartisan Holding Foreign Companies Accountable Act into law. TheHolding ForeignCompaniesAccountable Actis about ending the practice of companies based in China, some fully controlled by the Chinese Communist Party, from taking advantage of a loophole in securities law to fund their enterprises. Simply put, if a company wants access to US capital markets, they should follow US securities laws.I am pleased to see this bill be signed into law, and I look forward to continuing to work alongside my colleagues to hold the CCPaccountable and protect our investors and businesses,said CongressmanGonzalez. It's our job to protect American investors from fraudulent businesses seeking to take advantage of them. Requiring all publicly listed companies on our U.S. exchanges to be held to the same standards is the best way to do that. Taking this action is crucial to hold Chinese companies accountable and to safeguard the millions of American families who rely on modest investments to retire, send their kids to college, and weather financial emergencies. I've been proud to lead this this bipartisan effort, and I'm glad to see the President sign it into law today. I will continue fighting to improve our financial system and ensure it puts the American people first,said Senator Van Hollen. This may be the most significant piece of investor protection legislation passed in several years,said Congressman Sherman, Chair of the Investor Protection and Capital Markets subcommittee. It is designed to assure U.S. investors of financial statement integrity, when they invest in any of 224 U.S. exchange-listed companies with over $1.8 trillion in market capitalization. The purpose is not to de-list any company, but to persuade China to allow the audit oversight that U.S. investors need, and the U.S. investors get when investing in U.S. companies or companies in over 50 foreign jurisdictions. The Holding Foreign Companies Accountable Act led by Congressmen Gonzalez and Sherman andSenators Van Hollen and John Kennedy (R-La.) prohibits securities of a company from being listed on any of the U.S. securities exchanges if the company has failed to comply with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board's (PCAOB) audits for three years in a row. The bill would also require public companies to disclose whether they are owned or controlled by a foreign government, including China's communist government.The text of the legislation is available here. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://wenstrup.house.gov/updates/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=404560,Wenstrup Receives COVID-19 Vaccine; Encourages Others to Do the Same,2020-12-18,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,OH,Brad Wenstrup,W000815,wenstrup.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.Today, Congressman Brad Wenstrup, D.P.M. (OH-02) received his first of two doses of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine at the U.S. Capitol through the Office of the Attending Physician. After the incredibly challenging year we've had, I feel very blessed to receive this vaccine. I hope that my decision to get it gives my constituents confidence in thesafety and efficacy that havebeen demonstrated in the extensive trails, said Congressman Wenstrup. Taking the vaccine will help protect our community, help end the pandemic, restore our way of life, and rebuild the economy. I urge everyone to learn the facts about this vaccine, consult with their doctor, and make the decision that is best for them. He also added, I'm extremely grateful to the doctors, scientists, researchers, and manufacturers who worked around the clock to develop and produce this vaccine in record time. I commend President Trump, Vice President Pence, Secretary Azar, Dr. Moncef Slaoui, General Gustave Perna, the Operation Warp Speed team, and the thousands of clinical trial participantsfor their leadership on this endeavor, which will go down as one of the greatest medical feats in history. About the Pfizer vaccine: The Pfizer vaccine is administered in two doses roughly 21 days apart. It is stored in temperatures of negative 94 degrees Fahrenheit and has demonstrated 95 percent efficacy in clinical trials. The company received $1.95 billion from Operation Warp Speed to manufacture 100 million doses. Background on the Availability of Pfizer/BioNTech COVID19 Vaccine for US Congress Continuity of Government Purpose from the Office of the Attending Physician: The Food and Drug Administration granted an Emergency Use Authorization to the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID19 vaccine on December 12, 2020. I have been notified by the National Security Council that consistent with Presidential Policy Directive 40 (2016), Congress and the Supreme Court, along with Executive Branch agencies, will be provided with a specific number of COVID19 vaccine doses to meet long-standing requirements for continuity of government operations. These requirements are focused on essential operations and personnel. PPD-40 establishes continuity requirements for the Federal Government and states that continuity actions for the Executive Branch should be undertaken in parallel with the Legislative and Judicial branches of government. The small number of COVID19 vaccine doses we will be provided reflects a fraction of the first tranche of vaccines as it is distributed throughout the country. The following are some questions and answer format that may be helpful to inform your individual judgment about participating in this voluntary vaccination. My recommendation to you is absolutely unequivocal: there is no reason why you should defer receiving this vaccine. The benefit far exceeds any small risk.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/demanding-justice-accountability-and-transparency-in-goodson-murder-investigation,"Demanding Justice, Accountability, and Transparency in Goodson Murder Investigation",2020-12-17,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,OH,Joyce Beatty,B001281,beatty.house.gov,beatty,https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"COLUMBUS, OH—U.S. Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (OH-03) recently sent a letter to U.S. Attorney General William Barr seeking more information as well as a fair, complete review of the shooting and death of Casey Christopher Goodson, Jr. at the hands of a Franklin County sheriff's deputy. ""Unfortunately, although a routine reality when Black in America, Mr. Goodson's murderer was one of the very individuals who swore to protect and serve him and his family,"" Beatty wrote. ""Yet, as you are aware, his last steps were taken as he opened his front door to enter the safety of his own home—the place that should have been his sanctuary, as opposed to the scene of his unwarranted execution."" She later added, ""I do not want Mr. Goodson's death to have been in vain, so my review of the investigation will only serve as the beginning of the work I will complete in partnership with my congressional colleagues to make systemic, long-term changes to the operations of police departments nationwide."" A full copy of Beatty's letter can be accessed on her website. # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://chabot.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=401083,Co-Chairs of the Congressional Nigerian Caucus Condemn Boko Haram's Kidnapping of Over 300 Schoolboys in Katsina State,2020-12-17,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,OH,Steven Chabot,C000266,chabot.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC U.S. Representatives Steve Chabot (R-Ohio) and Sheila Jackson Lee (D-Texas), Co-Chairs of the Congressional Nigerian Caucus, released the following statements on Boko Haram's kidnapping of over 300 schoolboys at the Government Science secondary school in Katsina State in northwestern Nigeria on Friday, December 11, 2020. This attack comes just two weeks after Boko Haram killed 110 people in a village near Maiduguri.""Six years after the Chibok schoolgirls kidnapping, Boko Haram has continued to terrorize the people of Nigeria simply for seeking access to education for their children, said Congressman Chabot. This time, the kidnapping of over 330 schoolboys is not only the largest mass kidnapping of schoolchildren in history, but it is also a heartbreaking crime against innocent children and their families. We must not stand idly by as Boko Haram continues to terrorize the Nigerian people, and I will continue to work with Congresswoman Jackson Lee and all of our colleagues to secure the release of the children."" ""It is time for the Nigerian Government to stand up and seek a resolution to preserve their democracy and hold Boko Haram and other terrorist groups accountable for the kidnapping of children and countless brutal attacks on innocent citizens,"" said Congresswoman Jackson Lee. ""I do not know how much longer the world can look to Nigeria for leadership to resolve this horrendous disregard for human life. The future of Nigerian citizens is in jeopardy and its time for the Nigerian Government to send a strong message to the Boko Haram that they will no longer tolerate their complete disregard for human life and their disregard for the laws of the Republic of Nigeria. The violence has to stop, and the human rights and security of the Nigerian people have to be preserved and honored. As Co-Chairs of the Congressional Nigerian Caucus, we will continue to stand in solidarity with the people of Nigeria and demand that the Government of Nigeria take immediate action and locate all these young men and put an end to the Boko Haram. The Congressional Nigerian Caucus is a bipartisan caucus in Congress. The Caucus spearheads pro-Nigerian initiatives and legislative efforts to foster friendship, understanding and cooperation between the United States and Nigeria.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://davidson.house.gov/media-center/op-eds/do-nothing-congress-kicks-can-down-road-once-again,A do-nothing Congress kicks the can down the road once again,2020-12-17,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,OH,Warren Davidson,D000626,davidson.house.gov,,,legacy,"The last thing the public needed this year was more political brinkmanship. In 2020, governments asked the public to stop working, traveling, gathering, and just stay home. The goal was to stop the spread or flatten the curve. The result is millions oflostjobs, thousands ofdelayedmedical procedures, anddiminished educational attainmentfor America's students. Now, on top of all this, Speaker Nancy Pelosi is steering Congress toward a disruptive government shutdown. To be clear, Congress had all year to hammer out an agreement on appropriating money for congressionally funded government operations. In a perfect world, Congress would vote on the various department appropriations one by one before Sept. 30, and then, work would begin on the next year's spending. This would avoid the now-annual tradition of releasing thousand-page omnibus packages just days before the government runs out of money. Methodically negotiating and voting on each appropriation would allow members of Congress to address narrower issues in certain areas where Congress spends our hard-earned taxpayer dollars. What happens instead is that Congress kicks the can down the road, avoiding tough decisions. Back in September, the House of Representatives passed a continuing resolution to avoid a government shutdown before the general election. A continuing resolution is a piece of legislation that maintains spending at current levels for a short period of time. This may have been prudent, but it was a step that was necessary only because Congress failed to stay on schedule to fund the government before Oct. 1. Last week, Congress passed another continuing resolution, extending the deadline by a week as the possibility of passing further coronavirus relief complicated already thorny negotiations. This is unacceptable. Most people must comply with deadlines or else face consequences. Students in school must turn in their homework on time. Hourly workers must show up for their shifts on time. Business owners must meet delivery deadlines and pay bills on time. Congress relentlessly files extensions to avoid making tough choices and pretends there are no consequences for the excessive spending or missed deadlines. It's high time the public demanded accountability from Congress. Assuming appropriators come to an agreement this week, the deal will have been brokered by only a handful of representatives. Outside of congressional leadership and the House Appropriations Committee, rank-and-file members of Congress will have maybe 24 hours to read thousands of pages. There is no room for debate. Amendments will not be accepted. It's a closed process dictated by a handful of people behind closed doors. With the deadline looming, leadership and the appropriators will send a clear message once they reveal the text of the bill: Take it or leave it. Sadly, this power play to bankrupt America with excessive spending in a last-minute omnibus bill has been standard bipartisan practice. After wasting days and months, Congress will be filled with a sense of urgency. The forced dilemma is a choice to disrupt key government services by voting ""no"" or pass it and maintain the broken status quo. We should be clear, voting no is more of a rejection of the excess spending and this broken process than any one particular component of the deal. But, this year, the manufactured urgency is particularly rich. Congress had one of its least productive years in recent memory.A study by Quorumfound this Congress to be the least productive in at least 40 years. Although the metric is the number of bills passed, perhaps the more relevant metric is spending. No Congress has spent more money, ever, than the 116th. The outlook isn't great for the 117th Congress, either. The 2021 congressional calendar only allots 101 session days next year, the fewest since 1933. So, we can likely expect a rerun of this drama next year. This is not acceptable. Our constituents deserve better and must demand a change to the broken status quo. This opinion piece appeared in the Washington Examiner.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://chabot.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=401082,Statement from Freedom of the Press Caucus Co-Chairs Schiff and Chabot on Reports of 43 Journalists Killed in 2020,2020-12-16,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,OH,Steven Chabot,C000266,chabot.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington D.C. Today, Representatives Adam Schiff (D-CA) and Steve Chabot (R-OH), Co-Chairs of the Congressional Freedom of the Press Caucus released the following statement on International Federation of Journalists' (IFJ) new whitepaper regarding 2658 journalists who have been murdered since 1990, including 42 journalists in 2020. Just this weekend, Iranian journalist Ruhollah Zam was executed for running a website that criticized the Iranian government, bringing the year's total to 43.We are deeply troubled by IFJ's tragic findings that 42 journalists were killed this year and that 235 journalists remain in prison, the Co-Chairs said. With the addition of Ruhollah Zam's execution, 2659 journalists have been murdered over the past 30 years which equates to about two journalists or media workers killed every week. Media freedom is critical to hold governments accountable to their citizens. No matter where they are located, journalists like Mr. Zam should be free to fulfill the critical mission of providing timely, accurate information to the public without the fear of repression, imprisonment, or death. On December 10, IFJ issued a white paper documenting the killing of journalists since 1990. According to IFJ, [t]he IFJ casualty toll included all journalists, freelance as well as support staff such as drivers, fixers and translators who died during newsgathering activitiesgiving a fuller picture of the extent of casualties within the media workforce. Ruhollah Zam was convicted of corruption on earth for his work running Amad News, a news website Iran accused of inciting the 2017-2018 protests. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://fudge.house.gov/press-statements?ID=169D1C13-A678-4581-AE82-193A662D12A3,"Fudge, Latta, Kelly, Kelly Lead Effort to Reduce Maternal Deaths, Improve Health Outcomes for Mothers",2020-12-14,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,OH,Marcia Fudge,F000455,fudge.house.gov,,,legacy,"Facebook Icon Google Plus Icon Instagram Icon LinkedIn Icon Twitter Icon YouTube Icon Vimeo Icon Clients Icon Email icon Map Icon Print Icon Quote Icon icon_share Carousel Arrow - Left Carousel Arrow - Right Home News Press Statements Print",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://wenstrup.house.gov/updates/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=404556,Wenstrup Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to Raise Public Awareness of COVID-19 Vaccine,2020-12-14,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,OH,Brad Wenstrup,W000815,wenstrup.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.Today, Representatives Brad Wenstrup, D.P.M. (R-OH-02), Ron Kind (D-WI-03), Roger Marshall (R-KS-01), Scott Peters (D-CA-52), John Joyce (R-PA-13), Andy Kim (D-NJ-03), Neal Dunn (R-FL-02), and Albio Sires (D-NJ-08) introduced bipartisan legislation, authorizing a public advocacy campaign to promote COVID-19 vaccine participation and provide science-backed information. The bill provides necessary funds for the Department of Health and Human Services and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to provide grants to entities to launch public awareness campaigns no less than 30 days after a vaccine is authorized. Operation Warp Speed has produced a safe and effective vaccine in record time. A vaccine, however, will only lead us out of this pandemic and allow us to restore our way of life if enough Americans are willing to receive it, said Representative Brad Wenstrup D.P.M. It is more important than ever that we provide science-based, factual information about COVID-19 vaccines to the American people. I believe providing accurate information about vaccines will help alleviate concerns and empower Americansto make sound medical decisions. Today is a turning point in the COVID-19 pandemic as millions of vaccines are shipped across the country and arrive to Wisconsin and we begin to inoculate our health care workers and most vulnerable to the virus. But for these vaccines to ultimately bring an end to the COVID-19 pandemic, it is critical that Americans are willing to receive them, said Representative Ron Kind. I am proud to support this bipartisan bill to provide resources to trusted local leaders across the country to raise awareness and share factual, evidence-based information about COVID-19 vaccines with the communities they serve. A COVID-19 vaccine will only be effective in defeating this virus if people have confidence in its safety and efficacy, said Representative Roger Marshall, M.D. America is home to world-class scientists and a gold-standard regulatory agency that oversees the drug approval process. As a physician, I understand people's concerns over this unprecedented process, but from the start, pharmaceutical scientists have been in constant contact with officials at the Food and Drug Administration, ensuring multiple layers of safety and oversight. I am proud to co-lead legislation that provides funding for science-based information for our families and communities. I remain confident that we will defeat this virus and return to life as normal. Today's distribution of the first COVID-19 vaccines is a national triumph. It speaks to the skill of our public and private scientists, whose efforts to develop, certify and deploy a vaccine will soon help our country get closer to normal and save lives, said Representative Scott Peters. We must do everything we can to optimize and uplift their work. This legislation will educate and boost awareness and trust in communities disproportionately hurt by this deadly virus. As our nation combats the COVID-19 pandemic, America's scientists, researchers, and health care heroes have achieved remarkable progress in developing a safe and effective vaccine the key to restoring our communities, rebuilding our economy, and saving lives, said Representative John Joyce, M.D. Like many Americans, I am planning to take the vaccine as soon as I am eligible. It is imperative that the American people have confidence in the safety and efficacy of the COVID-19 vaccine. To gain their trust, we must cut through misinformation and ensure that Americans have the facts about this vaccine and its lifesaving potential. Earning the public's trust is key to putting an end to this pandemic, which is why it's so important that we come together in a bipartisan way to make sure every American has the facts about the COVID-19 vaccines, said Representative AndyKim. This bill would make sure that accurate information reaches the American people so that they can take the vaccine with confidence. I hope my colleagues from both sides of the aisle join in passing this critical effort. We've made great strides in combatting COVID-19 thanks to Operation Warp Speed. Now, we must focus on getting the facts to the public about the COVID-19 vaccine,said Representative Neal Dunn, M.D. This legislation will help to promote awareness and encourage participation, and ensure local governments have the resources to do so. Vaccines are most effective when a sufficient amount of Americans are vaccinated. I've said it from day one: if we're going to overcome this pandemic, we have to work together. The swift development of a COVID-19 vaccine is a serious progression on our route to curbing the virus and getting back to our normal routines. Now that the vaccine is being administered, it is crucial that we encourage as many Americans as possible to receive one, said Representative Albio Sires. We must ensure that Americans have science-based, factual information on the safety and efficacy of the vaccine. This bipartisan legislation will go a long way in funding states public awareness campaigns so that Americans have the information they need to receive the vaccine with confidence. The bill is a companion to legislationintroduced in the Senate by Senators Rob Portman (R-OH), Ben Cardin (D-MD), John Thune (R-SD), and Bob Menendez (D-NJ). You can read the bill text here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://anthonygonzalez.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=306,Gonzalez bill to address Tuscarawas River flooding included in final passage of 2020 Water Resources Development Act,2020-12-10,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,OH,Anthony Gonzalez,G000588,anthonygonzalez.house.gov,,,legacy,"Gonzalez bill to address Tuscarawas River flooding included in final passage of 2020 Water Resources Development Act Legislation introduced by U.S. Congressman Anthony Gonzalez to address flooding along the Tuscarawas River again passed the House of Representatives this week as part of the House and Senate negotiated Water Resources Development Act of 2020. This legislation is now being sent to the United States Senate. The bill, known as theTuscarawas River Flooding Study Act, will expedite an Army Corps of Engineers' assessment of needs of the Tuscarawas River Basin. I am pleased to see my bill to address the re-occurring flooding problems along the Tuscarawas River pass Congress with bipartisan support, said Congressman Gonzalez. This is an important step towards identifying and funding long-term solutions that will protect our communities and preserve the heritage of the Ohio and Erie Canal corridor. Congressman Gonzalez has worked with the village of Clinton for almost two years on the flooding issues in the area. We are pleased to see Congress recognize the urgent need for the Tuscarawas River Flooding Study Act as part of this important legislationsaid Clinton Mayor Clarissa Allega. TheTuscarawas River Flooding Study Act requires the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to expedite the completion of an assessment of the Tuscarawas River Basin. The feasibility study is the next step in on-going efforts to address flooding in southwest Summit County. In June, Congressman Gonzalezhelped secure $390,000 in federal funding for floodplain managementstudies in the area to help provide updated data to support mitigation efforts through the Army Corps, FEMA, and other state and local entities. The Huntington District of the U.S. Army Corps started the process in the fall, and the reports are targeted for completion in September of 2021. Read the full text of theTuscarawas River Flooding Study Acthere.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/beatty-heralds-nomination-of-marcia-fudge-to-lead-hud,Beatty Heralds Nomination of Marcia Fudge to Lead HUD,2020-12-10,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,OH,Joyce Beatty,B001281,beatty.house.gov,beatty,https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. —U.S. Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (OH-03), the incoming the Chair of the powerful Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) for 117th Congress, issued the following statement on the Biden Administration's nomination of Congresswoman Marcia Fudge (OH-11) for Secretary of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD): ""Congratulations to my dear friend, fellow Ohioan and Delta Soror, Congresswoman Marcia Fudge, on her historic nomination as the 18th Secretary of Housing and Urban Development. Congresswoman Fudge has dedicated her life to advocating for and advancing the needs of our most vulnerable, at-risk Americans, and I am confident she will keep them front and center in everything that she does to expand safe, affordable housing for all Americans. As the incoming CBC Chair, I look forward to working with her hand-in-hand to move our nation forward and build back better."" # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://wenstrup.house.gov/updates/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=404544,Wenstrup Statement on Texas v. Pennsylvania,2020-12-10,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,OH,Brad Wenstrup,W000815,wenstrup.house.gov,,,legacy,"Wenstrup Statement on Texas v. Pennsylvania Cincinnati, December 10, 2020 Contact: CINCINNATICongressman Brad Wenstrup (OH-02) issued the following statement after signing on to an amicus briefin the United States Supreme Court case of Texas v. Pennsylvania: I have heard many concerns from my constituents regarding a variety of aspects of the election. Our judicial system provides a place to raise legal challenges and seek remedy for injustice. Similar to the 2000 Presidential election, our nation won't have a sense of finality unless these legal challenges are resolved. That is why I asked the U.S. Supreme Court, which has ultimate jurisdiction, to take up this case, so that we may bring clarity for this election and legal certainty for future elections.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://anthonygonzalez.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=304,Gonzalez IOGAN Act bill to identify and combat “deepfakes” headed to the President’s desk,2020-12-09,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,OH,Anthony Gonzalez,G000588,anthonygonzalez.house.gov,,,legacy,"The House of Representatives again passed U.S. Congressman Anthony Gonzalez's (R Rocky River) bill to combat manipulated media content known as deepfakes on Tuesday via unanimous consent. This legislation now heads to the President's desk to be signed into law. The bill, the Identifying Outputs of Generative Adversarial Networks Act (IOGAN Act), supports critical research to accelerate the development of technology to identify deepfakes which could erode public trust, scam the American public, and endanger national security. The Senate companion legislation was co-sponsored by Senators Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV) and Jerry Moran (R-KS). Recent technological advances have reshaped the world we live in, but with that comes new threats to our national security that must be addressed, said Congressman Gonzalez. I am pleased to see my bill receiving support in both chambers and moving to the President's desk. It is critical that we learn to identify and combat deepfake technology to stop scammers and foreign entities who would seek to do harm to the American public. Deepfake technology has developed rapidly over the past several years with no clear method of identifying and stopping it from becoming a major national security threat. The IOGAN Act directs the National Science Foundation (NSF) and the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to support research to accelerate the development of technologies that could help improve the detection of such content. Advancements in computing power and the widespread use of technologies like artificial intelligence over the past several years have made it easier and cheaper than ever before to manipulate and reproduce photographs, video and audio clips potentially harmful or deceptive to the American public. The ability to identify and label this content is critical to preventing foreign actors from using manipulated images and videos to shift U.S. public opinion.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/beatty-salutes-selection-for-secretary-of-defense,Beatty Salutes Selection for Secretary of Defense,2020-12-09,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,OH,Joyce Beatty,B001281,beatty.house.gov,beatty,https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. —U.S. Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (OH-03), the incoming the Chair of the powerful Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) for 117th Congress, issued the following statement on the nomination of Retired Four-Star General Lloyd Austin as the Biden Administration's Secretary of the U.S. Department of Defense: ""I applaud the historic nomination of General Lloyd Austin to be our nation's first-ever Black Secretary of Defense. His long history of service and unequal qualifications make him the perfect leader for our military and national defense. As General Austin and I discussed on the phone recently, we must work together to protect our people, our country, and our national security interests around the globe. I believe General Austin is the right person to do exactly that at this critical moment in time. That is why I urge the Senate to hold hearings and confirm General Austin as soon as possible so that he can get to work on day one."" # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://davidson.house.gov/2020/12/davidson-pens-letter-treasury-self-hosted-wallet-regs,Davidson Pens Letter to Treasury on Self-Hosted Wallet Regs,2020-12-09,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,OH,Warren Davidson,D000626,davidson.house.gov,davidson,https://davidson.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C.—Representative Warren Davidson (R-OH) sent a letter to the Department of the Treasury today strongly encouraging Treasury Secretary Mnuchin to consult with Congress before issuing new regulations that govern the use of digital self-hosted wallets. Self-hosted wallets enable their users to make peer-to-peer transactions with digital assets without the need for a bank or third party to process the transaction. The letter from Davidson comes amid rumors on Capitol Hill that Secretary Mnuchin plans to issue new guidance that would require certain disclosures revealing the owner of self-hosted wallets. In the letter, Davidson said that the regulation would “hinder American leadership and preclude meaningful participation in the technological innovation currently underway throughout the global financial system,” and that it “could undermine the Treasury Department from stopping illicit actors . . . while it would raise privacy concerns and place impractical regulatory burdens on digital asset users and companies.” Davidson was joined by fellow Financial Services Committee members Rep. Tom Emmer (R-MN) and Ted Budd (R-NC) as well as Foreign Affairs Committee member Rep. Scott Perry (R-PA) in sending the letter. Rep. Davidson made the following statement after sending the letter: “Before Treasury issues midnight rules on the regulation of self-hosted wallets, Secretary Mnuchin should come to the Peoples’ House and speak to representatives about what his regulations would do. Over-regulating self-hosted wallets will crush a nascent industry and leave the Unites States behind the rest of the world when it comes to harnessing the power of blockchain and cryptocurrency. ""The wrong regulations will violate the financial privacy of users and send a message to the world that you shouldn’t build businesses or try new use cases for blockchain in the United States. I hope Treasury will carefully consider any action it takes on self-hosted wallets. I look forward to working with Secretary Mnuchin on this important issue for U.S. financial technology.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://anthonygonzalez.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=303,"Gonzalez priorities, including holding Chinese Communist Party accountable, in FY21 National Defense Authorization Act",2020-12-08,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,OH,Anthony Gonzalez,G000588,anthonygonzalez.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON The House of Representatives today passed the Fiscal Year 2021 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) Conference Report which includes pieces of legislation authored by U.S. Congressman Anthony Gonzalez (R Rocky River) aimed at curbing World Bank funding to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), limiting CCP influences on American universities, combatting human trafficking, and implementing a national AI research cloud. I am pleased to see this year's NDAA include two of my bills aimed at pushing back against the aggressions of the Chinese Communist Party. The CCP represents one of the greatest existential threats facing our nation today. Beyond their human rights violations and egregious mishandling of the coronavirus pandemic, the CCP has continued to abuse international organizations, violate agreements, exploit developing nations through the harmful Belt and Road Initiative, and seek to expand malign influence inside the U.S. through our research and financial institutions.said Congressman Gonzalez.It is past time that the United States take action to recalibrate our relationship with the CCP and hold them accountable. Accountability for World Bank Loans to China Act This legislation aims to curb World Bank funding to the CCP by directing the U.S. Governor for the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) to seek China's graduation from the program. Despite far exceeding the economic threshold for the program, the CCP has received $7.8 billion from the World Bank IBRD since 2016. The legislation also includes provisions to help protect poor and middle-income countries that the CCP seeks to take advantage of through their Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Learn more about theAccountability for World Bank Loans to China Acthere. CONFUCIUS Act This legislation seeks to limit the malignant influence of Confucius Institutes cultural and language exchange programs at American universities funded by the CCP by barring Department of Defense funds from going to any college or university that does not comply with the accountability provisions of the legislation. Learn more about theCONFUCIUS Acthere. STIFLE Act This legislation activates tools, partnerships, and guidance of a number of federal agencies, including the Department of the Treasury's Financial Crimes Enforcement Network and Federal financial regulators to help financial institutions identify techniques and patterns of transactions that may involve the proceeds of trafficking. The legislation requires the Comptroller General to report findings to Congress along with recommendations for legislative or regulatory changes needed to combat trafficking or money laundering the proceeds. National Artificial Intelligence Research Resource Task Force Act This legislation creates a task force composed of technical experts from universities, government, and private industry to develop a comprehensive plan for how the U.S. can create, implement, oversee, and maintain a national AI research cloud. Artificial intelligence is a defining technology of the 21st century. The framework established by the task force will help to ensure U.S. global leadership. ### anthonygonzalez.house.gov @RepAGonzalez",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/ohio-s-third-congressional-district-marks-16th-statewide-tribute-to-rosa-parks-with-release-of-new-video-highlighting-the-power-of-one,Ohio’s Third Congressional District Marks 16th Statewide Tribute to Rosa Parks with Release of New Video Highlighting the Power of One,2020-12-08,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,OH,Joyce Beatty,B001281,beatty.house.gov,beatty,https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"COLUMBUS, OH—To mark the 16th Statewide Tribute to Rosa Parks in Ohio (December 7th-December 8th), U.S. Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (OH-03) premiered the powerful short film, The Power of One: From Agony to Action, the Time is Now, highlighting Rosa Parks, the ‘Power of One,' and how both continue to inspire countless Ohioans, Americans and people across the globe to make a difference in their community. Video special guests include: The Ohio State University President Kristina Johnson, Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) President/CEO Joanna Pinkerton, and U.S. Congresswoman Brenda Lawrence (MI-14), with contributions from constituents of Ohio's Third Congressional District. ""Rosa Parks was the embodiment of the Power of One, and her life and actions on that historic December day is a touchstone moment for so many,"" Beatty said. ""By sitting down, Rosa Parks stood up for what is right and just."" She added, ""As we celebrate the 16th Statewide Tribute—65 years after she bravely refused to give up her seat—let's recommit ourselves to following in her footsteps to help move from agony to action. The time is now!"" ""It is my great pleasure to help honor an icon of racial justice and equity,"" Johnson said. ""While Rosa Parks is most often remembered for her defiance of injustice on a bus in Montgomery, she also taught us that progress is a lifelong pursuit. She is an inspiration to remain steadfast in the face of challenges as we continue her work today."" ""Rosa Parks' heroic act of civil disobedience was an indelible moment in the fight for equality, one that continues to this day,"" Pinkerton noted. ""COTA is proud to continue to support the Statewide Tribute to this remarkable woman, who serves as a reminder that public transportation is not a system that should divide us—but instead unite us and connect us all to social and economic prosperity."" ""I am proud to represent the home of Civil Rights icon and leader Rosa Parks. Throughout her life, she embodied the fighting spirit of Detroit and served as an inspiration and guiding light for our nation. As a Black woman in Congress, I plan to continue to use my voice to unite and uplift all future generations of women just as those who came before me,"" Lawrence said. In 2005, following the passing of Parks, then-State Representative Beatty authored, advocated, and won unanimous support for her emergency bill designating December 1st as Rosa Parks Day. Her piece of legislation was signed into law by former Governor Bob Taft and made the State of Ohio the first in the nation to recognize Rosa Parks Day. Since that time, Beatty has helped organize, alongside COTA and The Ohio State University, the Statewide Tribute to Rosa Parks, hosting a Community Leaders Forum that draws a crowd of nearly 500 people every year. The Power of One: From Agony to Action, the Time Is Now can be viewed on Beatty's Facebook and on her official YouTube channel. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://davidson.house.gov/2020/12/davidson-votes-against-ndaa,Davidson Votes Against NDAA,2020-12-08,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,OH,Warren Davidson,D000626,davidson.house.gov,davidson,https://davidson.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"“It pains me to have to vote against this year’s National Defense Authorization Act. As an Army Ranger and West Point graduate, I believe in a strong national defense and want to ensure that our fighting men and women have what they need to defend freedom and carry out their missions. “However, a contingent of my fellow Republicans, along with House Democrats, have used the NDAA as a vehicle to limit the President’s authority to reduce troop levels in countries across the globe—even allied countries like Germany, where there is no active conflict. This effort is a direct response to President Trump trying to fulfill his promise to the American people by bringing our troops home from Afghanistan and ending the endless wars that have cost millions of lives and nearly bankrupted the nation. “Along with a host of other bad policies, this bill could compromise any future President’s ability to redeploy troops as needed to respond to an urgent threat. I encourage the President to veto this bill and ask Congress to sustain his veto.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://fudge.house.gov/press-statements?ID=18507CAA-D818-4447-B140-05B4CF650ACB,Rep. Fudge Supports Passage of 2021 NDAA,2020-12-08,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,OH,Marcia Fudge,F000455,fudge.house.gov,,,legacy,"Facebook Icon Google Plus Icon Instagram Icon LinkedIn Icon Twitter Icon YouTube Icon Vimeo Icon Clients Icon Email icon Map Icon Print Icon Quote Icon icon_share Carousel Arrow - Left Carousel Arrow - Right Home News Press Statements Print",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://wenstrup.house.gov/updates/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=404543,"Wenstrup Votes to Provide Critical Support to US Servicemembers, Strengthen National Defense",2020-12-08,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,OH,Brad Wenstrup,W000815,wenstrup.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.Today, Congressman Brad Wenstrup (OH-02) offered the following statement after voting for the Fiscal Year 2021 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). Our men and women in uniform are willing to put themselves in harm's way to keep our nation safe; we owe it to them to provide the tools and resources necessary to carry out their missions and keep them safe. This year's bipartisan NDAA accomplishes these goals, and I am pleased to support its passage. I am honored to have been selected to serve on the NDAA conference committee and am pleased to note that two of my amendments are included in the final bill, which will help us address vulnerabilities in our critical supply chains. I thank Ranking Member Mac Thornberry for his years of leadership on the House Armed Services Committee and his dedication to our servicemembers and their families, as well as for being a key mentor to me during my first years in Congress. Highlights in the NDAA: H.R. 6395, the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021: The FY21 NDAA provides $731.6B for national defense discretionary programs. Provides our troops a 3% pay raise and supports their families with the pay and benefits they deserve. Authorizes a Pacific Deterrence Initiative and provides $2.2B as the basis of the Initiative. Provides DOD with the resources necessary to address COVID-19, including PPE, testing capabilities, and diagnostic testing. Congressman Wenstrup's amendments were included in Section 713 of the NDAA.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://anthonygonzalez.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=302,Gonzalez and Fletcher lead bipartisan letter calling for restoring the deductibility of forgiven PPP loans to help small businesses,2020-12-07,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,OH,Anthony Gonzalez,G000588,anthonygonzalez.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON U.S. Congressman Anthony Gonzalez (R Rocky River) along with Rep. Lizzie Fletcher (D-TX), and over 50 bipartisan freshman colleagues sent a letter to Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) and Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-CA) on Monday supporting restoring the tax deductibility of forgiven Paycheck Protection Program loans for small businesses. When we passed the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act in March, Congress created this program to help businesses within our districts and states survive this pandemic. By disallowing PPP loan recipients the ability to deduct forgiven PPP loan expenses, this is a surprise tax increase to businesses struggling to stay afloat. This is not what Congress intended. reads the letter. It is pivotal that we do not increase the burden on small businesses that have already struggled financially during this pandemic, said Congressman Gonzalez. This bipartisan message shows America's small businesses that we support them, and we will not saddle them with additional expenses during the time of their greatest need. Keeping businesses operating and employees paid through the PPP is central to our efforts to mitigate the devastating impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, said Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher. Congress' intent when creating the PPP was to bolster our small businesses, not create new burdens by prohibiting them from deducting forgiven expenses. I am glad to work with my colleagues to make this much-needed legislative clarification and protect our small businesses from a surprise tax bill. The Paycheck Protection Program has been a lifeline for nearly 150,000 small businesses across Ohio, said National Federation of Independent Business Ohio Executive Director Roger Geiger. Unfortunately, the IRS issued a guidance after the vast majority of small businesses received their loans, effectively resulting in a surprise tax hike at the worst possible time. We appreciate Rep. Gonzalez's leadership in urging Congress to correct this regulatory decision and save Ohio small businesses from a tax increase when they are struggling to stay afloat. The letter, signed by more than 50 freshman members of Congress, encourages House Leadership to restore the tax deductibility of forgiven Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans. An issued guidance from the IRS disallowed the deductibility of forgiven PPP loan expenses, creating an undue burden on many of the nation's small businesses. This guidance was issued after the majority of PPP loans were applied for and approved by the Small Business Administration and the Department of Treasury. If this guidance is not corrected, this decision will have a lasting negative impact on the economy as small businesses struggle to keep their doors open. Read the full text of the letter here. ### anthonygonzalez.house.gov @RepAGonzalez",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/statement-on-killing-of-casey-christopher-goodson-jr,"Statement on Killing of Casey Christopher Goodson, Jr.",2020-12-07,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,OH,Joyce Beatty,B001281,beatty.house.gov,beatty,https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"COLUMBUS, OH. —U.S. Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (OH-03) issued the following statement on the killing of Casey Christopher Goodson, Jr. by a Franklin County Sheriff's deputy on Friday, December 4th: ""Like many in the community, I am at a loss of words over the killing of Casey Christopher Goodson, Jr. The circumstances surrounding his tragic death are upsetting and extremely unsettling because too many Black men in our community are dying or are the victims of unjustifiable, excessive force from the very people sworn to protect and serve all of us. I join Casey's family, friends, and the entire community in demanding accountability and seeking justice for his senseless killing."" ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://turner.house.gov/2020/12/turner-supports-fy21-ndaa-conference-report,TURNER Supports FY21 NDAA Conference Report,2020-12-07,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,OH,Michael R. Turner,T000463,turner.house.gov,turner,https://turner.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,,0,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z https://wenstrup.house.gov/updates/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=404540,"Wenstrup, Sewell Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Address Doctor Shortages",2020-12-07,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,OH,Brad Wenstrup,W000815,wenstrup.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.Today, Congressman Brad Wenstrup, D.P.M. (OH-02) and Congresswoman Terri Sewell (AL-D) introduced the Rural-Urban Physician Workforce Act of 2020. The legislation provides greater flexibility for rural and urban hospitals to partner on cross-training medical residents. Rural Ohioans are experiencing firsthand the difficulties posed by physician shortages, and the pandemic has only worsened the problem. We know that doctors frequently practice medicine in the area in which they completed their residency programs. Therefore, we need to remove barriers to physician training in rural areas, said Congressman Wenstrup. Our bipartisan bill accomplishes this by giving more flexibility to both rural and urban hospitals so they partner together and meet our workforce needs. Alabamians deserve high-quality, affordable health care no matter where they live. As the COVID-19 pandemic endures, I'm proud to introduce this bipartisan legislation to help rural and urban hospitals partner to help produce the next generation of doctors and meet our community's health care needs, said Congresswoman Sewell. Congressman Wenstrup and Congresswoman Sewell are co-chairs of the House Committee Ways & Means Rural and Underserved Health Task Force You can read the bill here. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/central-ohio-leaders-applaud-beatty-being-elected-cbc-chair,Central Ohio Leaders Applaud Beatty Being Elected CBC Chair,2020-12-04,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,OH,Joyce Beatty,B001281,beatty.house.gov,beatty,https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. —U.S. Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (OH-03) was elected 27th Chair of the powerful Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) yesterday. In response, a diverse group of Central Ohio luminaries issued statements recognizing Beatty's new influential leadership position as well as her ongoing work for the constituents of Ohio's Third Congressional District. ""I have had the privilege of working with Congresswoman Beatty for decades, and she has always been a strong voice for our community. As the newly elected chair of the powerful Congressional Black Caucus, I am confident she will bring a level of energy and passion matched by very few public officials and be a difference maker for Black Americans, Central Ohio, and the nation. She is the perfect person for the job."" - Michael Coleman, former Mayor, City of Columbus, and Partner-in-Charge of Government Law Group, Ice Miller. ""As a veteran of the long-standing fight for equity, Congresswoman Beatty is a superb selection to chair the Congressional Black Caucus in its landmark 50th anniversary year. Her focus on addressing economic and health care disparities that have been exacerbated by the coronavirus pandemic is a continuation of her years of work combatting systemic racism. I am particularly grateful for the congresswoman's past efforts in the field of education, where she has promoted financial literacy programs and advocated for essential funding. I know she will lead the caucus with honor and conviction, and ensure that all Americans—particularly students and young people—have their voices heard."" - Kristina Johnson, President, The Ohio State University. ""Congratulations to my colleague and friend, Representative Beatty. For decades, she has been a tireless advocate for her community, her district, and Central Ohio. I am sure that Joyce will use her powerful new platform as chair of the CBC to be a voice for the issues impacting communities across the country, including Ohio. It's an honor to call her a friend, and I look forward to collaborating with her in the 117th Congress."" - U.S. Congressman Steve Stivers (OH-15). ""I want to offer my sincere congratulations to Congresswoman Joyce Beatty on her election as the chair of the Congressional Black Caucus. Her known record of fierce advocacy and fight for Ohioans will make her a strong leader for the ‘Conscious of Congress.' We are all so proud of her work representing Ohio's Third Congressional District and we are excited that the entire country will get to know what we know about Joyce Beatty's leadership, tenacity and courage."" - State Representative Emilia Strong Sykes, Ohio House Democratic Leader. ""Congratulations to our Congresswoman Joyce Beatty, Columbus NAACP Silver Life Member, for adding to her long list of accomplishments, while continuing to serve the people in her District."" - Nana Watson, President, NAACP Columbus. ""Congratulations to Representative Joyce Beatty on being chosen chair of the Congressional Black Caucus. Her tireless efforts to progress initiatives in equity and justice make her uniquely qualified for this important position. The nation will benefit from Representative Beatty's leadership and her team's focus on creating prosperity for every person who lives in our community."" - Alex Fischer, President/CEO, Columbus Partnership. ""Congratulations to Congresswoman Joyce Beatty on her election to serve as the 27th chair of the Congressional Black Caucus. YWCA Columbus looks forward to working with our congresswoman to serve families, women, and marginalized communities in the coming year."" - Christie Angel, President/CEO, YWCA Columbus. ""Congratulations on being elected CBC Chair. We are all so proud of you. I continue to be amazed by your intellect, grit, hard work, and determination. There is none like you, and we are all better because of your commitment to service. Thank you for never backing down, always speaking truth, and paving the way for the next generation. You are incredible!"" - Yvette McGee Brown, former Ohio Supreme Court Justice, and Partner-in-Charge of Diversity, Inclusion and Advancement, Jones Day. ""I have known Congresswoman Beatty for more than 25 years. She has dedicated her life to being a consistent and fearless advocate on issues important to her constituents and community. Her commitment to equity and inclusion is unwavering and indeed part of her fabric. I can think of no one better positioned to lead the Congressional Black Caucus than Congresswoman Joyce Beatty."" - Karen Morrison, President, Ohio Health Foundation, and Senior Vice President, Ohio Health. ""Congresswoman Beatty is a dynamic leader with a proven track-record of getting things done for our community. She has been a champion for the people of Central Ohio and is deeply committed to racial equity, inclusion, and justice. I'm ecstatic for all of the work she will do for our nation as the chair of the Congressional Black Caucus."" - Kyle Strickland, Senior Legal Analyst, Kirwan Institute for the Study of Race and Ethnicity, The Ohio State University. # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://balderson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1897,"Balderson, Bipartisan Lawmaker Group Aims to Launch New Generation of Main Street Entrepreneurs",2020-12-03,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,OH,Troy Balderson,B001306,balderson.house.gov,balderson,https://balderson.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27&Page=14,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman Troy Balderson (R-OH) joined Congressman Jason Crow (D-CO) and Senators Chris Coons (D-DE) and Tim Scott (R-SC) in introducing the Next Generation Entrepreneur Corps Act to spur new business and job creation in underserved communities by starting a competitive fellowship for entrepreneurs. With a five-year investment of $368 million, the bipartisan, bicameral bill would identify talented entrepreneurs through a national competition and directly support the creation of more than 320 new businesses each year. During this crisis, small businesses are struggling to return to pre-pandemic levels, with hundreds of thousands of businesses permanently closed. Even before the public health crisis, entrepreneurs faced substantial barriers to entry. The majority of would-be entrepreneurs have limited access to capital; and this problem is worse for minorities—who are twice as likely to be denied loans, more likely to receive lower loan amounts when they do receive loans, and pay higher interest rates than their white peers—and rural communities. These barriers to entry are also stark in low-income areas, where there are proportionally fewer self-employed workers and small businesses. “It’s critical now more than ever our country identifies and uplifts the next generation of entrepreneurs—including those in my home state of Ohio,” said Balderson. “The skills and talent these individuals bring to the table will help fuel America’s economic recovery. We just need to ensure they have the right resources at their disposal.” “As our country works to rebuild from the pandemic, we need to make sure we are supporting the next generation of entrepreneurs,” said Crow. “These men and women have the ingenuity, resourcefulness, and grit to make sure we are rebuilding and revitalizing our communities during this critical time. I’m proud to join with Senators Coons and Scott as well as my colleague Representative Balderson to support these entrepreneurs and make sure we continue to foster growth in our hardest hit communities.” “Creating opportunities for business growth in a post-COVID-19 economy will be necessary to regain the 10 million jobs still missing due to the pandemic,” said Coons. “New businesses account for nearly a third of total job creation each year. We must ensure that entrepreneurs can act on their innovative ideas in the places that need them the most. We need a range of bold new approaches to rebuild Main Street America in distressed communities, and the Next Generation Entrepreneur Corps should be part of this effort.” “As a former business owner and entrepreneur, I understand the challenges that come with starting a business,” said Scott. “Small businesses are the backbone of the American economy, and it’s important that we continue to spur economic development. I created my Opportunity Agenda to help create hope in underserved communities, and the Next Generation Entrepreneur Corps Act is a great avenue to help encourage small business creation in those communities. I look forward to my Senate colleagues supporting this legislation.” The United States has national fellowships to attract the next generation of talent to public schools, international development work, and public service. Now, with nearly 75% of small businesses experiencing a negative impact from COVID-19, the Next Generation Entrepreneur Corps Act seeks to invest in a new wave of talent to rebuild Main Street. The Next Generation Entrepreneur Corps Act would: Create a competitive fellowship program. A selection committee of 12 industry experts will review applications and select 320 entrepreneur fellows annually, from diverse backgrounds, to start both traditional and high growth-potential businesses in distressed, low-income census tract areas. The program will also set forth a framework to expand the number of fellows selected annually for greater impact. Provide healthcare, living expenses, and student loan support. Fellows will receive a $120,000 two-year stipend for living and basic startup expenses, health care, and interest-free federal student loan deferral for two years. Provide mentorship and networking opportunities. Fellows will receive immersive training, be matched with a local business mentor, and access support from an advisory board of CEOs and venture capitalists. Partner with the Small Business Administration (SBA) 8(a) Small Business Development program. This SBA program currently helps socially and economically disadvantaged entrepreneurs gain access to government contracting. Through this program, fellows will be provided a fast track to apply for 8(a) certification, and fellows with 8(a) eligible businesses will be matched with mentors via the 8(a) Mentor Protégé program. Provide access to capital. Fellows will connect with investors and SBA-backed lenders and receive fast-track access to credit. A $30 million fund will encourage equity investment in corps members’ businesses. Be available to transitioning business owners, new entrepreneurs, and previous business owners who have lost their business due to the public health crisis, but currently lack the resources or capital to start another venture. A full summary of the bill is available here. This legislation is supported by the Center for American Entrepreneurship, the Greater Philadelphia Chamber, the SCORE Foundation, Prosperity Now, Young Invincibles, the Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship, Small Business for America’s Future, the Small Business Majority, BUILD.org, Engine, and the Economic Innovation Group. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/beatty-elected-congressional-black-caucus-chair,Beatty Elected Congressional Black Caucus Chair,2020-12-03,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,OH,Joyce Beatty,B001281,beatty.house.gov,beatty,https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. —U.S. Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (OH-03) was elected the 27th Chair of the powerful Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) today. Immediately following the vote, she said: ""It is the honor of a lifetime to be voted by my peers to lead the Congressional Black Caucus in the 117th Congress. Right now, our nation is facing three pandemics that have disproportionately impacted the lives of Black Americans: COVID-19, economic turmoil, and social injustice. As Chair, I will work with the Biden Administration, House and Senate Leadership, as well as my congressional colleagues, to defeat the pandemic and ensure better days lie ahead for all of us. Moreover, I will use my voice to address enduring economic and health disparities and fight to break the chains of systemic racism that have held back the Black community for far too long. The Caucus will mark its 50th anniversary in 2021, and I will do everything in my power to build upon our previous successes, work to create racial wealth equity and sustainability, increase access to affordable healthcare, housing and education, reform our criminal justice system, and clean up our environment. Together—standing on the shoulders of the 13 CBC founders—we will continue to fight for our families, fight for our communities, and fight for justice for all."" Since its establishment in 1971, the CBC has been committed to using the full Constitutional power, statutory authority, and financial resources of the federal government to ensure that African Americans and other marginalized communities in the United States have the opportunity to achieve the American Dream. As part of this commitment, the CBC has fought for the past 49 years to empower these citizens and address their legislative concerns. For the 117th Congress, the CBC will be comprised of a historic 57 members in the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate. # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://chabot.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=401079,Ranking Member Chabots Remarks on the Need to Restart the Paycheck Protection Program,2020-12-03,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,OH,Steven Chabot,C000266,chabot.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON - Today, House Committee on Small Business Ranking Member Steve Chabot (R-OH) spoke on the House floor in support of reopening the Paycheck Protection Program and sending help to millions of small business owners and their employees. Remarks as prepared for delivery: I thank the gentleman/gentlelady for yielding. Mr./Madam Speaker, two weeks ago to the day, I spoke on this floor urging action on behalf of our nation's 31 million small businesses.I said that there was no better way to celebrate Small Business Saturday than to deliver much-needed aid yet again to the small restaurants, manufacturers, and shops that have been hanging on by a thread. That assistance comes in the form of the Paycheck Protection Program, or PPP.As I'm sure you're aware, the program has supported over 50 million jobs across the country.That's over 50 million people who didn't have to worry about how they would pay their bills or support their families. The program stopped accepting applications on August 8th but still had over $130 billion dollars remaining.Millions of small firms across the country have utilized the PPP program to keep their shops open, keep paying their employees, and keep serving their communities. To me, it seems like common sense to open the program back up.After all, it was initially crafted in a bipartisan, bicameral manner and has proven overwhelmingly successful. So I introduced a bill that would do just that and provide targeted assistance to small businesses that truly required help. Unfortunately, Democrats have blocked efforts to even have a vote on that legislation 40 times. As we all know, many small businesses are still uncertain about their future.Many are on the verge of closing their doors permanently.If that continues to happen, communities across our great nation will be devastated.I think that's an urgent problem, and one that should have been addressed a long time ago. It seems like Democratic leadership disagrees.Apparently, they feel it's more urgent to vote on legislation about marijuana and tigers than help small businesses.Those may be their priorities, but they are not the priorities of the small businesses across the country that can't hang on much longer. Today, if we defeat the previous question, we can restart and make improvements to the Paycheck Protection Program and finally get additional targeted relief to the small businesses that are counting on us. I yield back.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://chabot.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=401080,House Passes Four Bipartisan Small Business Bills,2020-12-03,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,OH,Steven Chabot,C000266,chabot.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON - Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed four Small Business Committee bipartisan bills that would enhance U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) lending and contracting programs. As our nation's small businesses remain in a precarious situation, it is critical that we ensure the federal government's small business programs meet their needs,said Committee Ranking Member Steve Chabot (R-OH).I thank my colleagues for their leadership on these issues and their willingness to work in a bipartisan manner. H.R. 8199, 504 Credit Risk Management Improvement Act introduced by Rep. Dan Bishop (R-NC) and Rep. Angie Craig (D-MN) H.R. 8199 increases the responsibilities of the Small Business Administration Office of Credit Risk Management as it oversees the SBA's 504/CDC Loan Program and defines enforcement actions that can be taken for violations of the SBA's rules and regulations.In addition, the bill requires the SBA clarify procedures necessary for a certified development company to comply with the National Environmental Policy Act. H.R. 8229, the Parity for HUBZone Appeals Act introduced by Rep. Aumua Amata Coleman Radewagen (R-AS) and Rep. Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA) H.R. 8229 requires the SBA Administrator to issue a rule authorizing the Office of Hearings and Appeals to decide appeals relating to the status of HUBZone business concerns. H.R. 8211, 504 Modernization and Small Manufacturer Enhancement Act introduced by Rep. Angie Craig (D-MN) and Rep. Steve Chabot (R-OH) H.R. 8211 streamlines the SBA's 504 loan program closing process and enhances the program for small manufacturers. H.R. 7903, To amend the Small Business Act to establish the Community Advantage Loan Program introduced by Rep. Judy Chu (D-CA) and Rep. Ross Spano (R-FL) H.R. 7903 authorizes the SBA's Community Advantage Loan Program for 5 years.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/chair-beatty-applauds-new-nasdaq-diversity-inclusion-proposal,Chair Beatty Applauds New NASDAQ Diversity & Inclusion Proposal,2020-12-02,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,OH,Joyce Beatty,B001281,beatty.house.gov,beatty,https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C.—NASDAQ announced this week a proposal, filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), requiring greater board diversity among the nearly 3,000 publicly-traded companies that list on their exchange. If approved, companies listed on the NASDAQ would have to disclose the diversity data of their board of directors, as well as require companies to ""have, or explain why they do not have, at least two diverse directors, including one who self-identifies as female and one who self-identifies as either an underrepresented minority or LGBTQ+."" In response to the proposed rule, U.S. Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (OH-03), Chair of the House Financial Services Subcommittee on Diversity and Inclusion, issued the following statement: ""I applaud NASDAQ's new proposal to require publicly-traded companies on its exchange to disclose the diversity data of their board of directors and require diverse representation on such boards. Specifically, I want to recognize the leadership of NASDAQ CEO Adena Friedman for taking this important step toward better reflecting the rich diversity of America. Any effort by a company to oppose this effort or threaten to move exchanges in retaliation should be called out for what they seek to protect: smoke-filled board rooms of days long since forgotten that purposefully excluded women and minorities simply because of what they looked like. Back in 2016, the SEC Advisory Committee on Small and Emerging Companies recommended the SEC require board diversity disclosure, but the SEC's passive leadership since has not had the courage to act on this well-laid recommendation. As the chair of the Subcommittee on Diversity and Inclusion, I have lead the effort in Congress to highlight the need for more transparency and accountability when it comes to diversity and inclusion and shined a light on companies that are stuck in the past. That is why I look forward to working with the new SEC Chair to help implement standards that embrace all Americans and the future."" # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://chabot.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=401078,Co-Chairs of The Congressional Nigerian Caucus Condemn Boko Haram's Massacre of Over 100 Civilians,2020-12-02,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,OH,Steven Chabot,C000266,chabot.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Representatives Steve Chabot (R-Ohio) and Sheila Jackson Lee (D-Texas), Co-Chairs of the Congressional Nigerian Caucus, released the following statement on the Boko Haram attack that killed 110 people in a village near Maiduguri over the weekend: ""We are devastated by Boko Haram's massacre of innocent Nigerians. We join all people of goodwill in extending our deepest sympathies to the people of Nigeria and the victims' families as they mourn these senseless killings. It is important for the Nigerian Government to hold Boko Haram and other terrorist groups accountable for such bloody attacks and to create a safe zone for the people of Borno State to be able to live without this horrific threat of violence. As Co-Chairs of the Congressional Nigerian Caucus, we will continue to stand in solidarity with the people of Nigeria as they seek justice for this crime and peace for their country."" ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-beatty-announces-over-3-million-for-central-ohio-community-health-centers,Congresswoman Beatty Announces Over $3 Million for Central Ohio Community Health Centers,2020-11-30,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,OH,Joyce Beatty,B001281,beatty.house.gov,beatty,https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"COLUMBUS, OH—The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) today awarded $3,219,213 to Columbus Neighborhood Health Center, Inc. to continue providing high quality, affordable, comprehensive healthcare services to constituents of Ohio's Third Congressional District and the surrounding area. In response, U.S. Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (OH-03) issued the following statement: ""Community health centers are the backbone of the Ohio healthcare system, providing cost-effective primary and preventive services that are crucial to the wellbeing of more than 800,000 Ohioans annually. As the Representative of Ohio's Third Congressional District, I am a strong supporter of our nation's community health centers and their dedicated team of healthcare professionals, and will continue to do all I can to ensure that they have the much-needed federal funds to carry out their important work to build healthier lives for my constituents."" # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:39:51Z https://davidson.house.gov/media-center/op-eds/letter-editor-time-reflect-positives-holidays-arrive,Letter to the editor: Time to reflect on positives as holidays arrive,2020-11-27,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,OH,Warren Davidson,D000626,davidson.house.gov,,,legacy,"At the state level, I am thankful for the hard work and perseverance of Ohioans who have banded together to help one another, find creative solutions to once-in-a-generation problems, and bring joy to the lives of others. At least one of the 8th District's hospitals has lifted restrictions on visitors so that more family and friends can visit patients. Business owners are doing everything they can to provide goods, services, and employment in a business environment that no one could have imagined even a year ago. As we enjoy our Thanksgiving dinners, we can certainly thank Ohio farmers for continuing to feed us. This year, I find myself grateful for the extra time I spent with my family. Time is truly precious. Any opportunity we have to reclaim time and spend it with those we love is a win. Pandemic measures have forced us to slow down and reevaluate priorities. I know that over the past few months, parents have been more engaged in their children's education, families have had more dinners together, and simple pleasureslike road trips, visits to the park, and FaceTime chats with faraway friendshave become more important and appreciated as we cultivate our personal relationships. Like most of you, I look forward to restoring our way of life. Before the pandemic, unemployment was at a record low, the economy was growing, and gathering for large events wasn't fraught with extra questions about social distancing or mask requirements. With most of the year in the rear-view mirror and a hotly contested election behind us, we can also be grateful for the cessation of violent unrest, the foreseeable end of U.S. military engagement in the Middle East, and Americans' continued love of freedom. This week as we spend more time with family and loved onesaround the table or via ZoomI hope that we will all be reminded that what unites us is greater and more powerful than what divides us. I wish everyone in Ohio's 8th District a happy and blessed Thanksgiving.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://fudge.house.gov/press-statements?ID=FE8F8D0D-EF04-4680-AA59-E0A075677303,Rep. Fudge Supports Passage of National Apprenticeship Act,2020-11-20,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,OH,Marcia Fudge,F000455,fudge.house.gov,,,legacy,"Facebook Icon Google Plus Icon Instagram Icon LinkedIn Icon Twitter Icon YouTube Icon Vimeo Icon Clients Icon Email icon Map Icon Print Icon Quote Icon icon_share Carousel Arrow - Left Carousel Arrow - Right Home News Press Statements Print",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://anthonygonzalez.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=300,Gonzalez introduces bill to expand investment opportunities for Northeast Ohioans,2020-11-19,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,OH,Anthony Gonzalez,G000588,anthonygonzalez.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today, U.S. Congressman Anthony Gonzalez (R Rocky River) introduced a new bill to provide Main Street investors additional opportunities to invest in growing private companies, while still maintaining appropriate investor protections. One of my goals on the Financial Services Committee is to help Main Street investors have greater access to investment opportunities into emerging companies during their growth stage. However, over the last 25 years, the number of publicly listed companies has significantly decreased, and more companies are waiting to go public later in their business life cycle. This has resulted in everyday Americans not having the same investment options as they once did, said Congressman Gonzalez. The Increasing Investor Opportunities Act will provide new options for all investors to access private markets and potentially attain stronger returns on their investments. ICI deeply appreciates Rep. Gonzalez's leadership to provide greater opportunity to Main Street investors, said Investment Company Institute President and CEO Eric J. Pan. The Increasing Investor Opportunities Act will allow closed-end funds to offer retail investors greater exposure to private investments with the protections that publicly offered, regulated funds provide under the Investment Company Act. It also will strengthen the closed-end fund structure by eliminating a loophole that activist investors have used to extract short-term profits to the detriment of Main Street investors. Closed-end funds are professionally managed by investment adviser fiduciaries and are subject to regulations that provide additional important protections for retail investors, making these investment vehicles a commonsense way to allow everyday Americans to have greater access to the private markets. The Increasing Investor Opportunities Act would allow closed-end funds more flexibility to invest in private companies while still accepting investment from every day Main Street investors. Under current SEC staff guidance, closed-end funds may only invest up to 15% of net assets into private funds unless the shares are only sold to accredited investorsthat is, typically well-off investors. This bill would eliminate that SEC staff position and make clear that all investors should have access to the private markets. Read the full text of the bill here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://chabot.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=401077,Chabot: Stop Playing Partisan Politics with Small Biz and Reopen PPP,2020-11-19,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,OH,Steven Chabot,C000266,chabot.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Today, House Committee on Small Business Ranking Member Steve Chabot (R-OH) spoke on the House floor in support of reopening the Paycheck Protection Program and sending help to millions of small business owners and their employees. Remarks as prepared for delivery: I thank the gentleman for yielding. Madam Speaker, an important holiday is coming up next Saturday.Small Business Saturday is the day when we take time to support the restaurants, shops, and other small businesses that create two out of every three new jobs in America. Normally, this is an occasion to eat a delicious meal, get a head start on holiday shopping, and say hello to friends and neighbors. Unfortunately, this year many small businesses are struggling due to COVID-19.A recent NFIB survey indicated that over half of small business owners expect to seek additional financial assistance over the next year.If they can't access that help, they may be forced to lay off employees or cease operations. That is unacceptable. We have a program that has already supported 50 million jobs.It even has over $130 billion dollars ready to go. That program, the Paycheck Protection Program, stopped accepting applications back in August. Instead of quickly passing a bill to reopen the program, Democratic leadership has used it as a political football for over three months, while small business owners have drained the last of their funds and nervously check if they can make payroll for the next month. Today, we have a chance to do right by the small businesses that are the heartbeat of each and every one of our communities. If we defeat the previous question, we can move directly to a legislative package that includes my bill to reopen and improve the Paycheck Protection Program. Let's defeat the previous question and send aid to the small businesses that desperately need it.I can think of no better way to celebrate Small Business Saturday. I yield back.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://wenstrup.house.gov/updates/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=404486,Wenstrup Recognizes National Rural Health Day,2020-11-19,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,OH,Brad Wenstrup,W000815,wenstrup.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC-Today,Congressman Brad Wenstrup, D.P.M.(OH-2), a co-chair of House Ways & Means Committee Rural and Underserved Health Task Force, participated in a roundtable discussion hosted by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services onNationalRural Health Day. Ohioans in rural communities continue to band together and show great resiliency in the face of challenges. Though healthcare has evolved, many physicians in small towns still provide the type of personalized care to patients that we saw from Marcus Welby,said Congressman Wenstrup.However, I hear regularly from healthcare providers in rural counties about increasing challenges, like workforce shortages and the uptick COVID-related hospitalizations, which put a strain on our system. That's why I'm proud to serve on the bipartisan Rural and Underserved Health Task Force and will continue working to find solutions that expand access to quality healthcare for small town Ohioans. Congressman Wenstrup co-chairs the bipartisan Ways and MeansRural and Underserved Communities Health Task Force along withRep. Jodey Arrington (R-TX), Rep. Danny K. Davis (D-IL), and Rep. Terri Sewell (D-AL). ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://chabot.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=401076,"Chabot, Sherman Legislation to Extend Tropical Forest Conservation Act Passes in the House",2020-11-18,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,OH,Steven Chabot,C000266,chabot.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. The House of Representatives passedtheTropical Forest and Coral Reef Conservation Reauthorization Act of 2020,bipartisan legislation authored byU.S. Representatives Steve Chabot (R-Ohio) and Brad Sherman (D-Calif.), senior Members of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs,to extend theTropical Forest and Coral Reef Conservation Act of 2018through fiscal year 2025.This legislation is a companion to S. 4428, sponsored by Senators Rob Portman (R-Ohio) and Tom Udall (D-N.M.). Tropical forests and coral reefs are some of the most biologically diverse and environmentally important ecosystems anywhere, Congressman Chabot said. Today, however, whether it's deforestation, pollution, overfishing or some other cause, these vital natural resources are threatened around the world. Further, many tropical forests and coral reefs are also located in the developing world where economic realities can often get the better of conservation.It is in the interest of the whole world to protect and responsibly manage these resources. That is why Congressman Brad Sherman and I introduced H.R. 7954. This legislation builds onthe important work of theTropical Forest Conservation Reauthorization Act of 2018, and theTropical Forest Conservation Act of 1998to preserve these critical ecosystems for future generations. Debt-for-nature programs are a critical tool to protect and preserve tropical forests and coral reefs, Congressman Sherman said. The program has already protected millions of acres of tropical forest from deforestation one of the leading causes of greenhouse gas emissions. The Tropical Forest Conservation Reauthorization Act will extend the life of this important program through FY2025, which will ensure the U.S. can continue to contribute to global conservation efforts. I want to thank Congressman Chabot for again including me in this bipartisan effort, and Senators Portman, Udall, Burr, and Schatz in the Senate for their efforts. I was glad to see this important bill pass the House today. Background: In 1998, then-Congressman Portman introduced, and Congressmen Chabot and Sherman co-sponsored, theTropical Forest Conservation Act. This legislation provides for loan forgiveness for developing countries that meet certain benchmarks and agree to contribute instead to tropical forest conservation. Since then, this legislation has enabled the United States tohelp preserve 67 million acres of tropical forest around the world. In 2019, theTropical Forest Conservation Reauthorization Actbecame law, renewing the program and adding coral reefs. This legislation was sponsored in the Senate by Senator Portman and a bipartisan group of senators, and in the House by Congressmen Chabot and Sherman and several of their colleagues. The Tropical Forest and Coral Reef Conservation Reauthorization Act of 2020provides for continued funding for theTropical Forest and Coral Reef Conservation Actfor fiscal years 2021-2025. The Tropical Forest and Coral Reef Conservation Reauthorization Act of 2020is supported by ConservationInternational, the World Wildlife Fund, the Wildlife Conservation Society, The Nature Conservancy, and International Paper. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://fudge.house.gov/press-statements?ID=E89B0FE3-92A4-45D5-B8ED-9C633D410DBA,Rep. Fudge Appointed to 2021 NDAA Conference Committee,2020-11-18,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,OH,Marcia Fudge,F000455,fudge.house.gov,,,legacy,"Facebook Icon Google Plus Icon Instagram Icon LinkedIn Icon Twitter Icon YouTube Icon Vimeo Icon Clients Icon Email icon Map Icon Print Icon Quote Icon icon_share Carousel Arrow - Left Carousel Arrow - Right Home News Press Statements Print",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://turner.house.gov/2020/11/turner-named-ndaa-conferee-0,TURNER Named NDAA Conferee,2020-11-18,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,OH,Michael R. Turner,T000463,turner.house.gov,turner,https://turner.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,,0,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z https://wenstrup.house.gov/updates/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=404483,Wenstrup Named to Serve on NDAA Conference Committee,2020-11-18,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,OH,Brad Wenstrup,W000815,wenstrup.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.Today,Congressman Brad Wenstrup(OH-02) offered the following statement after being named as a conferee to the Fiscal Year 2021 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) Conference Committee: ""Providing for the health and safety of the American people is my biggest priority. As we approach the holidays, we must always remember our men and women in uniform, many of whom are overseas, defending our freedoms. President Trump has delivered on his promise to rebuild the military, but there is still work to do. It's critical that we continue to provide our servicemembers with the resources and support needed to carry out their missions. This is, after all, the first constitutional responsibility of the federal government. Vulnerabilities in our critical supply chains stand out as one of our most pressingissuesexposed by the pandemic. Included in this year's House-passedNDAAaretwo amendmentsI authored to direct the Department of Defense (DOD) andrelated agencies to gather the necessary information Congress needs to intelligently realign our medical supply chains, including those supporting DOD's Joint Deployment Formulary.Identifying dataabout the countries of originofour active pharmaceutical ingredients andbarriers that may inhibit DOD from procuring these itemsis critical. Congress can use thiskind of informationto complement and inform other efforts to produce more critical goods here at home, such asmy billto encourage domestic advanced medical manufacturing. I'm honored to serve as a conferee on thisNDAAConference Committee, and look forward to producing a bipartisan bill that will fulfill the needs of our national defense."" House RepublicanLeaderKevin McCarthy (CA-23) added the following comment regarding the nomination: The experience Brad brings to our Republican conference is unmatched - he is a doctor, serves as an Army Reserve officer, deployed to the Iraq War, and even became a small business owner. He personally understands the unique challenges and requirements of our military men and women, and it is my privilege to select him to serve on this year's NDAA conference committee. As one of the leaders of the Doc Caucus, Brad has also helped to spearhead Congress' coordination with the administration's very successful Operation Warp Speed. With him on the team, I know that the defense bill will reflect the mission of our Department of Defense, the demands of our troops, and the requirements to keep America safe. Congressman Wenstrup serves as a colonel in the U.S. Army Reserve. He served a tour in Iraq from 2005-2006 as a combat surgeon and was awarded a Bronze Star and Combat Action Badge for his service. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-beatty-receives-famed-donna-a-james-award,Congresswoman Beatty Receives Famed Donna A. James Award,2020-11-16,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,OH,Joyce Beatty,B001281,beatty.house.gov,beatty,https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"COLUMBUS, OH— U.S. Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (OH-03) was recently named the recipient of the Donna A. James Award for her unparalleled work on behalf of the people, workers, families, and small businesses of Ohio's Third Congressional District. ""It is an unbelievable honor to be this year's winner of the Donna A. James Award,"" Beatty said. ""Like the Award's namesake, I have dedicated my life to empowering the next generation of leaders, fighting for our entire community, and working to build a brighter future for all Central Ohioans no matter where they live."" She continued, ""Thank you, Corporate Connections, for this tremendous recognition, and I promise to continue to use my voice and platform to stand up for each and every constituent of Ohio's Third Congressional District."" The Donna A. James Award is presented annually by Corporate Connections, an African-American men's mentoring and networking resource group comprised of associates employed by Nationwide Insurance. Corporate Connections was founded in December 2003 by 14 African-American men and has grown to over 300 members. Corporate Connections members include a wide range of professionals from varying levels, including management and executive leaders. The Award is the highest honor and award given by Corporate Connections. The Award is named after Donna James, the managing director of Lardon & Associates, a company she helped found. A community pillar and philanthropist, James was previously appointed by former President Barack Obama to chair the National Women's Business Council. In Central Ohio, James is the co‐founder and former board chair of the Center for Healthy Families, a nonprofit working to transform the lives of pregnant and parenting teens and their children. She is also a board trustee for OhioHealth, as well as North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, and Co‐Executive Director for the African American Leadership Academy.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:39:51Z https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/beatty-calls-on-biden-transition-team-to-terminate-trump-anti-diversity-training-executive-order,Beatty Calls on Biden Transition Team to Terminate Trump Anti-Diversity Training Executive Order,2020-11-12,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,OH,Joyce Beatty,B001281,beatty.house.gov,beatty,https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C.— U.S. Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (OH-03), Chair of the House Financial Services Diversity and Inclusion Subcommittee, wrote a letter to President-elect Joseph R. Biden to urge him to rescind President Trump's Executive Order to end diversity and inclusion training programs in the federal government promptly after taking office. ""Executive Order 13950, which is based on the pernicious premise that diversity is ""offensive and anti-American,"" effectively terminates diversity and inclusion training programs within all federal departments and agencies, the U.S. uniformed services, and among federal contractors, subcontractors, and certain federal grant recipients,"" Beatty wrote. ""In hearings throughout the 116th Congress, the Financial Services Diversity and Inclusion Subcommittee, which I chair, has received testimony from industry leaders and experts acknowledging the positive correlation between diversity performance and the bottom line."" She added, ""President Trump's Executive Order is designed to eliminate the use of diversity and inclusion training programs that are essential in the prevention of discrimination, unconscious bias, and sexual harassment in the workplace and in promoting understanding, increasing profitability, and contributing to a more effective workforce."" On September 22, 2020, President Donald Trump issued Executive Order 13950, ""Combating Race and Sex Stereotyping,"" rolling back diversity and inclusion training programs within all federal departments and agencies, the U.S. uniformed services, and among federal contractors and subcontractors and certain federal grant recipients. The order also established within the Department of Labor a hotline for the investigation of complaints and requires the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) to craft a request for seeking information from federal contractors, subcontractors, and their employees regarding the training, workshops, or similar programming provided to employees, under the threat of termination of any existing contract and preclusion of future contracting opportunities. Prior to today's letter, Beatty introduced a bill (H.R. 8595) to invalidate Executive Order 13950 and preserve diversity and inclusion training programs at federal departments and agencies as well as in the private sector. She also sent a letter to the Trump Administration expressing her opposition to Executive Order 13950 on September 18, 2020. In addition, during a Diversity and Inclusion Subcommittee hearing in early September, the Offices of Minority Women and Inclusion (OMWIs) directors testified that diversity and inclusion training programs at their respective financial regulatory agencies are a critical tool for fostering greater inclusivity, mutual respect, and acceptance of all employees in the federal workforce.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:39:51Z https://wenstrup.house.gov/updates/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=404468,GOP Doctors Caucus Condemns Governor’s Remarks on Vaccine Safety,2020-11-10,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,OH,Brad Wenstrup,W000815,wenstrup.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. The GOP Doctors Caucus released the following statement after New York Governor Cuomocommented on Operation Warp Speed vaccine safety: Governor Cuomo seems so desperate to prevent any progress that may occur under this administration that he is willing todisparage the credibility and independence of the scientists and doctors who are working around the clock to save lives. His comments that it is bad news' that the Pfizer vaccine is proving to be effective are both extremely sad and dangerous for the health of Americans. ""It would be unethical to delay distribution of a proven safe vaccine while Americans continue to succumb to the virus. The federal government is coordinating with state governments, tribal leaders, and private industry to ensure that a vaccine can be distributed swiftly to the American people once it is approved, and Americans should be confident that any vaccine developed under Operation Warp Speed will be safe and effective.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/beatty-to-run-for-congressional-black-caucus-chair-looks-to-the-future,"Beatty to Run for Congressional Black Caucus Chair, Looks to the Future",2020-11-09,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,OH,Joyce Beatty,B001281,beatty.house.gov,beatty,https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"COLUMBUS, OH—U.S. Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (OH-03) issued the following statement on the results of the 2020 Election and her future plans for the 117th Congress: ""Now that the 2020 Election is over, I want to congratulate my good friends President- and Vice President-elect Joe Biden and Kamala Harris on their historic victory. No matter your politics, we should all celebrate the fact that a woman—much less a woman of color—will be Vice President for the very first time in our country's history. Right now, our nation is facing three crises: COVID-19, economic turmoil, and social justice. As Biden and Harris made clear, the only way we will solve these and so many other pressing issues is by putting aside our differences, finding common ground, and listening to each other more—because we are Americans first and foremost. In that same spirit, regardless of whether you voted for me, please know that my door is always open, and my staff and I stand ready to assist you. The road ahead will not be without its challenges, but I am confident that together we can defeat COVID-19, ensure that better days lie ahead, and provide access to affordable healthcare, housing, education, and jobs no matter your zip code. As the Congresswoman for Ohio's Third Congressional District, I promise to continue to do everything in my power to make progress on these fronts. Working for you has been the greatest privilege of my life, and I believe I can make an even greater difference in the upcoming 117th Congress for Ohio's Third Congressional District, the State of Ohio, and our country. That is why I am proud to formally announce my candidacy for Chair of the powerful Congressional Black Caucus. Next year, the Caucus will mark its 50th anniversary, and as Chair I will work to build upon our previous successes, use my voice to address enduring economic and health disparities, and fight to break the chains of systemic racism that have held back communities of color for far too long. This is how America can be a more perfect union and live up to the very ideals enshrined in our Constitution. The work continues."" # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:39:51Z https://turner.house.gov/2020/11/turner-statement-on-esper,TURNER Statement on Esper,2020-11-09,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,OH,Michael R. Turner,T000463,turner.house.gov,turner,https://turner.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,,0,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z https://fudge.house.gov/press-statements?ID=925767E2-4F76-447A-B54A-9686F6E34601,Rep. Fudge Statement on Election of Joe Biden as Next President of the United States,2020-11-07,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,OH,Marcia Fudge,F000455,fudge.house.gov,,,legacy,"Facebook Icon Google Plus Icon Instagram Icon LinkedIn Icon Twitter Icon YouTube Icon Vimeo Icon Clients Icon Email icon Map Icon Print Icon Quote Icon icon_share Carousel Arrow - Left Carousel Arrow - Right Home News Press Statements Print",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://balderson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1894,Balderson Applauds USTR Announcement of Successful Steel Negotiations with Mexico,2020-11-06,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,OH,Troy Balderson,B001306,balderson.house.gov,balderson,https://balderson.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27&Page=14,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Congressman Troy Balderson (R-OH) is applauding U.S. Trade Representative Bob Lighthizer’s announcement that pursuant to the Joint Statement of May 17, 2019 to address the transshipment of grain-oriented electrical steel (GOES), Mexico will establish a strict monitoring regime for exports of electrical transformer laminations and cores made of non-North American GOES. “I am thankful President Trump and USTR Lighthizer have taken meaningful action to protect steel jobs in Zanesville and Butler,” said Balderson. “This announcement marks a crucial step forward in the fight to protect American steel, American manufacturing, and more than one thousand well-paying jobs in Ohio and Pennsylvania. If AK Steel’s manufacturing of electrical steel is edged out by foreign competitors, not only will Ohioans lose their jobs, but the integrity of the American electrical grid will be in peril. I am committed to working together with my colleagues and the Administration to ensure the future quality and safety of America’s critical infrastructure—our electrical grid—from complete reliance on foreign manufacturers of steel.” The announcement follows a year-long effort by Balderson urging the administration to address unfair trade practices that threaten AK Steel’s Zanesville, Ohio, and Butler, Pa., steel facilities. AK Steel, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Cleveland-Cliffs, is the last remaining North American producer of GOES, which is a crucial element of the United States electrical grid. This March, Congressmen Balderson and Mike Kelly (R-PA) called on President Trump to address the dramatic increase in GOES imported from Canada and Mexico—two countries that have no domestic capacity to make GOES—in the form of laminations and cores. In April, Balderson joined Kelly and Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (D-OH) in calling on President Trump to cover derivative electrical steel products (laminations and cores) under the administration’s Section 232 program. Earlier this week, Lourenco Goncalves, Chairman, President, and CEO of Cleveland-Cliffs said, “These actions should be viewed as a condemnation of those seeking to circumvent tariffs and quotas imposed under our trade laws and of companies abusing the steel Section 232 product exclusion process.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:39:51Z https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/beatty-announces-new-129-million-head-start-grant,Beatty Announces New $12.9+ Million Head Start Grant,2020-11-02,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,OH,Joyce Beatty,B001281,beatty.house.gov,beatty,https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"COLUMBUS, OH—The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) recently awarded more than $12 million for Head Start and Early Head Start programs in Franklin County, Ohio. In response, U.S. Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (OH-03) issued the following statement: ""As a strong supporter of comprehensive early childhood education, I am working tirelessly to guarantee that every child—no matter where they live—can obtain a high-quality education that prepares them for success in and outside the classroom. As the Representative of Ohio's Third Congressional District, I promise to continue advocating for increased funding for Head Start so that even more Central Ohio children can obtain the education they need and deserve."" Specifically, HHS awarded: $12.98 million for the Child Development Council of Franklin County to fund Head Start and Early Head Start programs. Head Start and Early Head Start programs promote school readiness of children ages birth to five from low-income families by supporting the development of the whole child. # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:39:51Z https://fudge.house.gov/press-statements?ID=040C01C2-16B9-4FAA-B043-9332D286F2CB,DOJ To Monitor Polling Sites Nationwide,2020-11-02,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,OH,Marcia Fudge,F000455,fudge.house.gov,,,legacy,"Facebook Icon Google Plus Icon Instagram Icon LinkedIn Icon Twitter Icon YouTube Icon Vimeo Icon Clients Icon Email icon Map Icon Print Icon Quote Icon icon_share Carousel Arrow - Left Carousel Arrow - Right Home News Press Statements Print",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://chabot.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=401075,NFIB Survey: Small Businesses Still Need Help,2020-10-30,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,OH,Steven Chabot,C000266,chabot.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON - Yesterday, the National Federation of Independent Business released thelatestin a series of surveys on the small business impact of COVID-19. While the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) has helped, most respondents have used all loan funds and indicate they will need help in the future. More than half expect they will need additional financial assistance in the next year. Three in four would apply or consider applying for a second round of PPP loans. 20 percent report that they will have to close if the economy does not improve over the next six months. In mid-September, House Committee on Small Business Ranking Member Steve Chabot (R-OH) introducedH.R. 8265, which would reopen the Paycheck Protection Program to new and second-time applicants, expand the list of forgivable expenses, and allocate $25 billion in remaining funds for businesses with 10 or fewer employees. If 218 Representatives sign the discharge petition led by Rep. Jaime Herrera Beutler (R-WA), the House would be forced to consider the bill.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://fudge.house.gov/press-statements?ID=D7404F2F-3004-4E34-8FCB-2B54245C9252,Rep. Fudge Introduces Bill to Study Health Impacts of Rubber Bullets,2020-10-30,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,OH,Marcia Fudge,F000455,fudge.house.gov,,,legacy,"Facebook Icon Google Plus Icon Instagram Icon LinkedIn Icon Twitter Icon YouTube Icon Vimeo Icon Clients Icon Email icon Map Icon Print Icon Quote Icon icon_share Carousel Arrow - Left Carousel Arrow - Right Home News Press Statements Print",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://balderson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1892,Balderson Introduces SMART Transportation Act,2020-10-29,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,OH,Troy Balderson,B001306,balderson.house.gov,balderson,https://balderson.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27&Page=14,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Congressman Troy Balderson (R-OH) introduced the Strengthening Methods to Advance Research and Technology (SMART) in Transportation Act, which would spur innovation, improve efficiency, and promote advanced technology in America’s transportation systems. The legislation would foster a safer, more efficient transportation system by authorizing key U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) programs – including the Advanced Transportation Technologies program, the Connected Vehicle Deployment Pilot program, the Automated Driving System Demonstration program, and the Accelerated Implementation and Deployment of Advanced Digital Construction Management Systems program – and requiring no less than 20 percent of grant funds be reserved for projects serving rural areas, ensuring our rural communities have a seat at the table. “In Central Ohio, we’re proud of our history as a national leader in smart mobility and advanced transportation research,” said Balderson, a member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. “I’ve seen firsthand the state-of-the-art research and work being done in this community that will improve road safety and create more efficient transit options throughout Ohio. I’m excited to continue working with our local transportation thought leaders like DriveOhio and the Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission (MORPC) to continue these efforts.” “Congressman Balderson’s bill will accelerate the development of smart mobility in Ohio,” said Howard Wood, DriveOhio Executive Director. “The bill reflects a deep appreciation of our world-class automotive research and development ecosystem, with the Transportation Research Center, US 33 Smart Mobility Corridor, and OSU Center for Automotive Research. As we develop the transportation system of the 21st century, communities and institutions from across the State of Ohio will benefit from this legislation.” “Smart technology is quickly emerging, and Central Ohio is at the center of the action,” said William Murdock, MORPC Executive Director. “MORPC works with our partners to ensure our region continues to lead on mobility. Central Ohio communities of all shapes and sizes can benefit from new transportation technologies to create better safety, smoother transportation, and economic growth. This is why we support Congressman Balderson’s bill to provide needed grants and deploy emerging transportation technologies in our growing region.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:34:36Z https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/beatty-backs-ppe-for-safe-schools-act,Beatty Backs PPE for Safe Schools Act,2020-10-29,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,OH,Joyce Beatty,B001281,beatty.house.gov,beatty,https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C.—U.S. Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (OH-03) recently cosponsored the Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for Safe Schools Act,H.R. 8664, a piece of legislation to provide $17 billion to school districts across the country to pay for PPE, cleaning supplies, technical training, and additional staff support needed to keep students, educators, and communities safe. ""I believe Congress has a moral obligation to protect the health and safety of our kids—especially with many returning to the classroom in the midst of a pandemic,"" Beatty said. ""We must make sure that all students have access to the PPE that we know will keep them safe. At the same time, we must ensure that our teachers, faculty, and support staff are also properly equipped to continue their important work preparing the next generation to succeed."" She added, ""I am proud to be a cosponsor of the PPE for Safe Schools Act because the health and safety of all my constituents remains my number one priority."" If enacted into law, the PPE for Safe Schools Act would direct $17 billion to school districts to better protect students, teachers, and support staff. Specifically, the measure allocates: $8.8 billion for PPE in schools and school buses; $6.6 billion to fund additional demands on cleaning staff; and $1.6 billion for cleaning and health supplies. H.R. 8664 is awaiting further consideration in the House Committee on Education and Labor.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:34:36Z https://anthonygonzalez.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=297,"Reps. Anthony Gonzalez, Dean Phillips sign Braver Angels letter committing to bipartisan support for a fair and nonviolent election",2020-10-27,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,OH,Anthony Gonzalez,G000588,anthonygonzalez.house.gov,,,legacy,"U.S. Representatives Anthony Gonzalez (R-OH) and Dean Phillips (D-MN) came together in a show of bipartisanship today to sign the Braver Angels What we will do to hold America together public letter, promoting bipartisanship in the lead-up and following this year's Presidential election. In this season of intense and legitimate partisanship, we the undersigned commit ourselves also to a higher partisanship for the maintenance of our Union; for the importance of our shared civic life; and for those feelings of goodwill that Lincoln called the better angels of our nature, reads the letter. We the undersigned will work separately for what each of us believes is right, but we will also work together to protect the land we all love to lift up American citizenship and the American promise in a time of peril and to find in ourselves the understanding that our differences don't simply divide us, but can strengthen and complete us. With so much at stake in our great nation, Congress must commit to working together across partisan lines for the sake of our democracy and the people we represent, said Congressman Gonzalez. In this time of hyper-partisanship and unique voting dynamics due to COVID-19, I believe it is as important as ever that we all commit to a fair and peaceful election conducted according to the laws of the land. The United States has always held elections and upheld the results, even in times of great crisis. Now it's our turn to prove that nothing - not even this pandemic - will stand in the way of our country's commitment to democracy, said Rep. Dean Phillips. During one of the most contentious and divisive periods in our history, it is incumbent on members of Congress and Americans of all political perspectives to unite in the spirit of patriotism and ensure this extraordinary - and extraordinarily important - tradition is maintained. ""For all of their understandable partisan fears, Americans still want their leaders to work together to solve problems,"" said Ciaran O'Connor, national spokesperson for Braver Angels. ""Rep. Phillips and Rep. Gonzalez are the tip of the spear when it comes to making Congress responsive to the will of the people. Braver Angels is thrilled they've agreed to sign our letter, and we look forward to working with them in the new Congress to usher in a new era of civic friendship -- one that lifts all Americans and empowers us to work together without compromising our values."" The Braver Angels ""Holding America Together"" campaign calls upon Americans to embrace a higher partisanship and disavow all election related violence. The public letter, which has over 5,000 signatories to date -- including elected officials and media figures across the political spectrum -- resolves that should a consensus not be reached on who is the legitimately elected president following the election, the signers will work in a bipartisan manner for solutions grounded in the Constitution and guided by democratic and non-violent traditions. The campaign has also recruited thousands of Americans, and hundreds of institutions -- including colleges, churches, and civic groups -- to commit to holding post-election gatherings designed to help Americans hold their families, friendships, and communities together in the wake of the election, or during an ongoing election crisis. Read the full letter here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://turner.house.gov/2020/10/turner-supports-future-commercial-development-at-wpafb,TURNER Supports Future Commercial Development at WPAFB,2020-10-27,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,OH,Michael R. Turner,T000463,turner.house.gov,turner,https://turner.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,,0,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z https://wenstrup.house.gov/updates/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=404460,Wenstrup Congratulates New Supreme Court Justice Amy Coney Barrett on Confirmation,2020-10-26,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,OH,Brad Wenstrup,W000815,wenstrup.house.gov,,,legacy,"Cincinnati, OHToday, Congressman Brad Wenstrup (OH-02) offered the following statement after the United States Senate confirmed Judge Amy Coney Barrett to serve as Associate Justice of the United States Supreme Court: Congratulations to Justice Amy Coney Barrett on her confirmation to the United States Supreme Court. Justice Barrett displayed her exceptional understanding and knowledge of legal theory and history before the Senate Judiciary Committee. Also of note, this is the first time a mother of school-aged children will serve on the nation's highest court a historic moment for women. I wish Justice Barrett and her family well and thank them for their patience and grace while enduring undignified attacks and the politics of personal destruction during her confirmation process. The American people should take comfort in knowing that our judicial branch will be served by another justice committed to interpreting the laws as they are written, not as he or she wished the laws were written. I commend President Trump for nominating yet another extremely-qualified and impressive jurist as well as Senator Portman for voting to confirm Justice Barrett.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://anthonygonzalez.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=293,Featured Constituent Rick Quinlan is using innovating new technology to fight the spread of COVID-19,2020-10-23,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,OH,Anthony Gonzalez,G000588,anthonygonzalez.house.gov,,,legacy,"Featured Constituent Rick Quinlan is using innovating new technology to fight the spread of COVID-19 Washington, October 23, 2020 U.S. Congressmen Anthony Gonzalez (R-Rocky River) today announced Jackson Township's Rick Quinlan will be celebrated as a featured constituent on his website to highlight the work he and his team have done to help innovate through the COVID-19 pandemic by utilizing their expertise to help business owners conduct large-scale sanitization of hard surfaces. Rick Quinlan of Jackson Township is no stranger to the Architectural Engineering Industry having worked in the field since 1976 in various roles from designer to his current role as President of EPIC Engineering Group. Rick leads a team of engineers based in Green providing electrical and mechanical engineering in 20 states. Over the past few months Rick and his team have utilized their expertise in lighting to develop a science-based approach to sanitization. Through UVC technology, retailers can easily and effectively sanitize hard surfaces, like carts, saving businesses thousands of dollars in additional cleaning expenses. This innovative approach to sanitization has led to a recent partnership with Northeast Ohio grocers as our region works together to keep our community safe. Rick's ingenuity and leadership have had a positive impact on our region's COVID-19 response capabilities and personified the innovation and resiliency at the heart of Northeast Ohio. See Rick's featured constituent page on the homepage of anthonygonzalez.house.gov and here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://anthonygonzalez.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=294,"Kuster, Gonzalez Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Strengthen Safety on Mobile Apps",2020-10-23,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,OH,Anthony Gonzalez,G000588,anthonygonzalez.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today, Reps. Annie Kuster (NH-02) and Anthony Gonzalez (OH-16) introduced theProtecting Our KIDS Act,legislation that will allow mobile applications to better identify registered sex offenders on their platforms and protect their users. It has been over a decade since federal legislation was passed to address the risk posed by sex offenders on the internet, and theProtecting Our KIDS Act reflects the significant changes in technology that have emerged during that timein particular, the widespread use of smart phones and other mobile technology. With technology constantly evolving, Congress has an obligation to ensure the law keeps pace and covers all emerging digital platforms that could be exploited by sexual predators,said Congresswoman Kuster, founder and co-chair of the Bipartisan Task Force to End Sexual Violence. I'm proud to partner with Rep. Gonzalez to introduce this bipartisan legislation, which would require registered sex offenders to now report their accounts on socialnetworking platforms like mobile apps. Our bill will also mandate this information cover all apps and platforms, regardless of the age of their users. Every American, from a child using a video app to an adult using a dating app, deservesto know they are not being exposed to or interacting with sex offenders."" The spread of online child exploitation material and the way that social media has enabled online sexual predators are some of the most troubling issues facing our society today. Technology is evolving faster than the legislation and law enforcement tools that we have in place. It is imperative that Congress take action to update our laws to match new technology, support our law enforcement working to find and prevent these crimes, and create partnerships with leaders in the technology industry,said Congressman Gonzalez.I thank Congresswoman Kuster for her continued partnership on this issue, and I look forward to continuing to work alongside her and our colleagues in Congress to move this legislation forward and keep our communities safe. ""The only thing that changes faster than technology is predators' ability to exploit it,""said RAINN President Scott Berkowitz.""We thank Reps. Kuster and Gonzalez for leading the effort to ensure the National Sex Offender Registry keeps pace with the many new avenues for exploitation child predators now have at their disposal."" Match Group is proud to be the first major tech company to support the Protecting Our KIDS Act,said Shar Dubey, CEO of Match Group. This bill is especially meaningful for me, both in my day job and as the mother of a teenager. Keeping our communities, online and in real life, safe is a social imperative that requires everyone to play a role. This bill provides much-needed tools to further the societal goal of keeping minors away from danger. I would like to thank Representatives Kuster and Gonzalez for introducing this legislation and our partners at RAINN for supporting this. We call on other stakeholders to support this critical legislation and we look forward to its passage. Passage of the Keeping the Internet Devoid of Sexual Predators Act (KIDS Act"") in 2008 required the Justice Department to collect internet identifier information from sex offenders and create a secure system that permits social networking sites to compare the internet identifier information contained in the National Sex Offender Registry with the internet identifiers of their users. The information is excluded from disclosure to the general public. In accordance with the KIDS Act, Justice Department guidelines require sex offenders to provide information such as, email addresses, instant messaging addresses, telephone numbers, and any other designations used for routing purposes in the context of internet communications, but this does not address more recent digital platforms like mobile applications. The Protecting Our Kids Act would: Require registered sex offenders to provide the Justice Department with the identifiers, account names, and device information they use on social networking platforms, to include mobile applications. Expand the definition of social networking websites, for the purposes of the National Sex Offender Registry, beyond just those that serve a substantial number of minors, in order to cover dating apps and other platforms used primarily or exclusively by adults. Instruct the Justice Department's Inspector General to provide a report to Congress on the implementation of this legislation, as well as the KIDS Act of 2008. The Bipartisan Task Force to End Sexual Violence, of which Rep. Kuster is a co-chair and Rep. Gonzalez is a member, works to raise awareness and propose solutions to the challenges posed by sexual assault and violence. The Task Force's areas of focus include: K-12 education, campus sexual violence, the rape kit backlog, military sexual trauma, improved data and collection, online harassment, and law enforcement training. Congresswoman Kuster has long been a champion for survivors of sexual violence, sharing her ownpersonal experiences involving sexual assault on the House floor and joining with 17 other Members of Congress toread Emily Doe's open letterdescribing her attack and ensuing trial which marked the first time a victim's statement has been read in full in the House chambers. Bill text is available here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://wenstrup.house.gov/updates/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=404452,Wenstrup Leads Effort to Increase Flexibility for DCFSA Spending,2020-10-23,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,OH,Brad Wenstrup,W000815,wenstrup.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.- Congressman Brad Wenstrup (OH-02) led a group of his colleagues in requesting that the Department of Treasury allow Americans to use their Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (DCFSAs) for online education and childcare services. While I believe science shows that schools can safely return to in-person learning, there are instances for some families where it is not possible. Currently, families with Dependent Care FSAs are unable to use their hard-earned DCFSAs for online schooling or care. After hearing from a constituent with an online schooling issue, I was proud to lead this effort to expand DCFSA eligibility. I'm grateful to them for bringing this issue to my attention and am proud to work on behalf of them and other individuals and families facing similar difficulties, said Congressman Wenstrup. Background: After hearing from a constituent with a virtual education issue, Congressman Wenstrup joined his colleagues on Ways and Means, Representatives Mike Kelly and Darin LaHood, in asking the Treasury Department and Internal Revenue Service to provide temporary flexibility for DCFSAs for families utilizing virtual dependent care services due to the COVID-19 public health emergency. As schools have closed across the country, families have turned their homes into temporary daycares, nurseries, and preschools. Communities and schools have made localized determinations to move dependent care services online, re-open, or move to hybrid models with virtual and in-person instruction. While childcare providers have adapted to continue to provide services for working families, the regulations guiding DCFSA tax-advantaged accounts have not. Currently, DCFSA-eligible employees cannot use their childcare savings for virtual daycare or pre-school. Congressman Wenstrup has requested that the Treasury Department expand eligible expenses for DCFSAs to include virtual school and childcare services for the duration of the public health emergency. Text of the letter: Steven T. Mnuchin Secretary U.S. Department of the Treasury 1500 Pennsylvania Avenue NW Washington, DC 20220 Michael J. Desmond Chief Counsel Internal Revenue Service 1111 Constitution Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20224 Dear Secretary Mnuchin and Chief Counsel Desmond: October 19, 2020 In light of ongoing efforts to reopen safely and smartly, we are asking the Department of Treasury to provide temporary flexibility for Dependent Care Flexible Arrangements (DCFSA) for families utilizing virtual dependent care services due to the COVID-19 public health emergency. As you know, many employers offer DCFSAs to their employees and their families, allowing employees to contribute up to $5,000 pre-tax dollars per year to cover eligible services such as child or adult daycare, preschool, summer day camp, and before- or after-school programs. We thank you for your work to provide much needed certainty to Americans with DCFSAs by allowing eligible employees to make mid-year benefit changes and roll over their DCFSA dollars through December 31, 2020. As Americans begin to return to normal, further flexibility is needed. As schools have closed across the country, families have turned their homes into temporary daycares, nurseries, and preschools. Communities and schools have made localized determinations to move dependent care services online, re-open, or move to hybrid models with virtual and in-person instruction. While childcare providers have adapted to continue to provide services for working families, the regulations guiding DCFSA tax-advantaged accounts have not. Currently, DCFSA-eligible employees cannot use their childcare savings for virtual daycare or pre-school. We look forward to restoring our way of life and having children return to entirely in-person childcare services. We commend the unprecedented work of President Trump to harness the full capacity of the private and public sectors to deliver a COVID-19 vaccine. Until then, families need assurance that their children can access education and childcare services. Allowing families to use their own hard-earned DCFSA dollars for virtual education is one tool in the toolbox to help families during the public health emergency. As you continue to give Americans the needed tools to restore their lives during the COVID-19 public health emergency we ask that you issue guidance to allow families to temporarily use their DCFSA dollars on virtual dependent care services for the duration of the public health emergency. We look forward to continuing to work with the Department on issues important to our constituents and thank you for your consideration.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/ohio-congressional-democrats-urge-ohio-attorney-general-yost-to-join-litigation-to-make-it-easier-for-ohioans-to-vote,Ohio Congressional Democrats Urge Ohio Attorney General Yost to Join Litigation to Make It Easier for Ohioans to Vote,2020-10-22,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,OH,Joyce Beatty,B001281,beatty.house.gov,beatty,https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (OH-03), along with U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown (OH), and Representatives Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), Marcia Fudge (OH-11) and Tim Ryan (OH-13), recently penned a letter to Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost urging him to join litigation against the United States Postal Service (USPS), allow for the installation of drop boxes without superfluous restrictions, and abandon unnecessary signature matching regulations for absentee ballots. The Ohio Attorney General is directing the State's legal defense on voting policies that are constraining Ohioans ability to cast their ballots. The lawmakers wrote to remind the State Attorney General of several simple steps he could take to streamline voting procedures and to make it easier for Ohioans to cast their ballots. ""Protections enshrined in the Constitution and numerous federal statutes were designed to empower Americans with the inalienable right to vote,""the Ohio lawmakers wrote in their letter. ""Keystone statutes like the Voting Rights Act (VRA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) were drafted to empower ordinary Americans in the exercise of their Constitutionally protected right to vote. Unfortunately, state laws masquerading as ""protections"" against non-existent voter fraud, have a long history of disenfranchising Americans, particularly working-class voters and communities of color. We fear that your positions hinder access to the ballot box and risk repeating that history, sending a chilling message to the people of our state about the value of their vote."" In September, the lawmakers sent a letter to Ohio Secretary of State LaRose urging him to work with the skilled and dedicated tradespeople of Ohio to locate additional drop boxes across all 88 counties, and another letter requesting him to provide prepaid postage on return ballots and ballot applications. Lawmakers in the letter to Yost identify several steps to improve voter accessibility in the state of Ohio. These include the push for the state to adopt changes regarding signature matching sought by voting rights advocates, provide Ohioans with sufficient and secure drop boxes, expand the accessibility of voting in collaboration with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and finally take steps to ensure that Ohioans are able to vote freely and fairly this election cycle. The actions taken by the Trump Administration to sow discord in the integrity of our elections are deeply troublesome to lawmakers and voters alike. The lack of presidential leadership is intended to compromise the sanctity of our democracy and destabilize our confidence in the fall elections. Ohio lawmakers are pressing the chief legal officer in Ohio, Secretary Yost, to collaborate with Secretary LaRose on the USPS litigation and to take further steps to protect our electoral system.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:34:36Z https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-beatty-johnson-introduce-new-legislation-to-combat-discrimination-in-our-nation-s-financial-services-industry,"Reps. Beatty, Johnson Introduce New Legislation to Combat Discrimination in Our Nation’s Financial Services Industry",2020-10-22,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,OH,Joyce Beatty,B001281,beatty.house.gov,beatty,https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C.— This week, Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (OH-03), Chair of the Financial Services Subcommittee on Diversity and Inclusion, and Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04), Chair of the Judiciary Subcommittee on Courts, Intellectual Property and the Internet, will introduce the House companion bill to the Senate's Fair Access to Financial Services Act. The bill would prohibit banks and other financial institutions from discriminating against consumers on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity, or sexual orientation. While the Civil Rights Act of 1964 outlawed discrimination in certain places of public accommodation, it does not cover banks and other financial institutions. This new legislation would ensure that all people receive equal treatment when trying to access services at financial institutions and hold them accountable when they engage in discriminatory acts. ""It is truly unconscionable that in 2020—some six decades after the passage of the Civil Rights Act—financial institutions can still discriminate against Americans because of the color of their skin,"" Beatty said. ""The Fair Access to Financial Services Act will right this wrong, making sure that no customer is denied access to vital banking services as a result of their race or ethnicity. I am proud to team up with Congressman Hank Johnson to introduce this historic piece of legislation and call on all my congressional colleagues to help put a stop to discriminatory banking practices once and for all."" ""'Banking While Black' isn't a slogan, it's real,"" Johnson added. ""Just ask Clarice Middleton of Atlanta, who recently tried to cash a $200 check, only to be accused of fraud by three branch employees, who then called the cops. Her experience is just a microcosm of a larger, systemic problem of racial profiling and unequal treatment Black and Brown people face when dealing with banks and other financial institutions."" This bill is a direct response to the numerous incidents of discrimination experienced by Black and Brown people when trying to access the financial system. The piece of legislation has been endorsed by several civil rights organizations including Lawyers' Committee on Civil Rights Under Law, The Leadership Conference on Civil Rights and Human Rights, The National Urban League, National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), UnidosUS, Americans for Financial Reform, Public Citizen, Local Initiatives Support Corporation, National Association of Real Estate Brokers, League of United Latin American Citizens, National Community Reinvestment Coalition, National Action Network, and the Center for Responsible Lending.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:34:36Z https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/senate-republicans-put-politics-ahead-of-people,Senate Republicans Put Politics Ahead of People,2020-10-22,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,OH,Joyce Beatty,B001281,beatty.house.gov,beatty,https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC—Yesterday, 159 days after the U.S. House of Representatives passed The Heroes Act, H.R. 6800, a bold and comprehensive piece of legislation to address the ongoing public health crisis posed by the Coronavirus (COVID-19) Pandemic, Senate Republicans voted on an incredibly inadequate COVID-19 response bill that represented nothing more than cheap political theater. The bill failed to garner the support necessary to pass the U.S. Senate. In response, U.S. Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (OH-03) said: ""The American people's lives and livelihoods are on the line, but Republican Leadership is more focused on political gamesmanship—and their latest COVID-19 proposal is further proof. The bill Senate Republicans voted on doesn't provide direct economic impact payments, cuts emergency unemployment benefits by 50 percent, conditions desperately needed aid for schools at the expense of student, teacher, and faculty safety, and fails to provide any assistance to the tens of millions of Americans struggling to buy groceries and keep a roof over their heads. Moreover, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell admitted just this week that Senate Republicans have no interest in passing a comprehensive COVID-19 response package until after the 2020 Election, causing workers, families and small businesses further hardship when they can least afford it. It's time for the White House and Republicans to end the charades, put people over politics, and work in good faith with Democrats to pass a piece of legislation that makes critical investments like those in The Heroes Act."" On May 15, 2020, House Democrats passed The Heroes Act and passed an updated version of the bill, H.R. 925, again on October 1, 2020. If enacted, the bill would provide direct economic impact payments to workers and families, extend unemployment benefits, guarantee hazard pay to those on the frontlines that they need and deserve, and make critical investments in state and local governments, schools, affordable housing, COVID-19 testing and contact tracing, fair elections, and much more. Unfortunately, both versions of The Heroes Act are languishing in Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell's self-described ‘legislative graveyard.'",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:34:36Z https://turner.house.gov/2020/10/potus-helping-delphi-salaried-retirees,POTUS Helping Delphi Salaried Retirees,2020-10-22,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,OH,Michael R. Turner,T000463,turner.house.gov,turner,https://turner.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,,0,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z https://wenstrup.house.gov/updates/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=404447,Wenstrup Leads Effort to Protect Health Care Innovations Delayed by COVID-19,2020-10-22,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,OH,Brad Wenstrup,W000815,wenstrup.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.Congressman Brad Wenstrup (OH-02) introduced H.R. 8624, the Protecting Access to Innovation During COVID-19 Act, to ensure patients can continue accessing innovative new drugs and devices during and beyond the ongoing pandemic. Our nation's medical community made necessary changes, sacrifices, and restrictions over the last year to prioritize combatting COVID-19, but medical innovation and development should not be compromised, said Congressman Wenstrup. This May, I joined Rep. Sanford Bishop in sending a letter to Health and Human Services and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services asking them to extend the pass-through period for new drugs and new devices, and I'm proud to join Rep. Bishop again on this bill to ensure that we don't punish medical innovation because of closures that occurred during the public health emergency. ASCRS strongly supports the Protecting Access to Innovation During COVID-19 Act, which allows the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to extend the pass-through period for devices and drugs, ensuring optimal access to surgical care products once the pandemic recedes. Without it, we are concerned that CMS' claims data may lead to inaccurate policy conclusions related to products and patient access will be harmed. We applaud this bill to protect the full duration of data collection and reimbursements afforded by pass-through status, said Terry Kim, MD, President of American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery. The American Academy of Ophthalmology supports Reps. Wenstrup and Bishop efforts to advance legislation that provides the HHS Secretary authority to give a temporary passthrough extension for products impacted by the COVID-19 public health emergency. The PHE has impacted the accurate data collection on many new treatments, including those related to ophthalmic surgery which was largely shuttered for more than two months this year. This bill will help ensure that providers and patients continue to have access to new treatments. We support similar legislation in the Senate introduced by Sens. Rand Paul and Doug Jones, said David Glasser, MD, American Academy of Ophthalmology Secretary for Federal Affairs. The American Association of Neurological Surgeons and Congress of Neurological Surgeons thank Representatives Wenstrup and Bishop for their leadership in supportinginnovative medical breakthroughs.Giving the Secretary of Health and Human Services the ability to extend Medicare's pass-through payment statusfor products effected by the COVID-19 public health emergencywill help pave the way to ensure that cutting-edge medical technologies such as neurostimulators, which relieve suffering from debilitating spinal disorders, including chronic pain are available for our patients, saidJohn A. Wilson, MD, President of American Association of Neurological Surgeons. During the ongoing public health emergency, physicians are striving to provide the highest quality care and that means being able to use new drugs, devices or biologics, saidAmerican Association of Orthopaedic Surgeons PresidentJoseph A. Bosco III, MD, FAAOS. This legislation helps ensure the access and flexibilities needed to adopt innovative technologies during these uncertain times. Background on Rep. Wenstrup's H.R. 8624, the Protecting Access to Innovation During COVID-19 Act: To encourage the use of innovative products, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) allows for an initial separate payment for new devices and drugs in the hospital-based outpatient department (HOPD) and ambulatory surgery center (ASC) settings using pass-through status. CMS then collects utilization data from the procedures using these new products during a specified time period to determine how to adjust the payment for the service. In statute, this time period lasts 2-3 years. During the COVID-19 public health emergency, the Surgeon General and CMS urged the cancellation of all elective medical procedures. A majority of the products that qualify for pass-through status are furnished during elective procedures. As elective procedures were ceased across the country during the COVID-19 public health emergency, utilization data will be skewed for current pass-through devices. This bill would give the HHS Secretary authority to give a product with pass-through status an extension if the Secretary determines that the cost of the product is unable to be accurately calculated due to the effects of COVID-19.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/beatty-bill-to-terminate-trump-executive-order,Beatty Bill to Terminate Trump Executive Order,2020-10-20,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,OH,Joyce Beatty,B001281,beatty.house.gov,beatty,https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C.— U.S. Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (OH-03), Chair of the House Financial Services Diversity and Inclusion Subcommittee, recently introduced a bill (H.R. 8595) to invalidate Executive Order 13950 and preserve diversity and inclusion training programs at federal departments and agencies as well as in the private sector. Beatty's bill has the backing of 23 Members of Congress. On September 22, 2020, President Donald Trump issued Executive Order 13950, ""Combating Race and Sex Stereotyping,"" rolling back diversity and inclusion training programs within all federal departments and agencies, the U.S. uniformed services, and among federal contractors and subcontractors and certain federal grant recipients. The order also established within the Department of Labor a hotline for the investigation of complaints and requires the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) to craft a request for seeking information from federal contractors, subcontractors, and their employees regarding the training, workshops, or similar programming provided to employees, under the threat of termination of any existing contract and preclusion of future contracting opportunities. ""As the first-ever Chair of the Subcommittee on Diversity and Inclusion, I have focused our bipartisan work on highlighting the tremendous impact of a more inclusive U.S. economy and workforce,"" Beatty said. ""In hearings throughout the 116th Congress, the Subcommittee has received testimony from industry leaders and experts acknowledging the correlation between diversity performance and the bottom line. Diverse organizations are more profitable, pose less regulatory risk, and strengthen our economy."" She added, ""That is why I strongly oppose Trump's divisive attempt to cement racism as the practice and policy of the federal government and call on all Americans to join me in this effort because this Executive Order is antithetical to the values we hold so dear as a nation.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:34:36Z https://wenstrup.house.gov/updates/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=404425,President Signs Wenstrup’s Bipartisan Trade Partnership Legislation,2020-10-11,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,OH,Brad Wenstrup,W000815,wenstrup.house.gov,,,legacy,"CINCINNATIPresident Donald Trump signed into lawH.R. 991, the bipartisan Extension of the Caribbean Basin Economic Recovery Act. Representatives Brad Wenstrup (R-OH) and Terri Sewell (D-AL) sponsored the legislation, whichextends the expiringCaribbean Basin Trade Partnership Act (CBTPA) through2030. This extension of theCBTPAis a big deal for workers and employers in southern and southwestern Ohio as well as for America's economic anddiplomatic relations with our neighboring countries. I'm grateful to President Trump for signing this legislation into law and to Congresswoman Sewell for her cooperation on this important bipartisan initiative,said Congressman Wenstrup. We are grateful for Representative Brad Wenstrup's leadership, working with Representative Terri Sewell, to secure passage of a critical trade program for Haiti and other Caribbean countries. Haiti is an integral part of Cintas' Western Hemisphere supply chain,said Kevin Bien, Senior Vice President of Supply Chain for Cintas.Because of the programs enacted by Congress, Cintas has built strong partnerships in Haiti which enable us to supply our customers great value in a timely manner. The 10-year extension ofCBTPAis especially important as companies such as Cintas deal with the economic challenges resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. Background: CBTPAworks in conjunction with the Caribbean Basin Economic Recovery Act (CBERA) to facilitate the development of 17 independent countries of the Caribbean Basin region. For these two preferential trade programs to be effective, bothCBTPAand CBERA must be authorized. Eligible CBERA countries include Antigua and Barbuda, Aruba, the Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, the British Virgin Islands, Curaao, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica, Montserrat, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent, and the Grenadines and Trinidad and Tobago.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/ohio-congressional-democrats-blast-secretary-of-state-larose-s-attempted-sleight-of-hand-continued-refusal-to-make-voting-easier-for-ohioans,"Ohio Congressional Democrats Blast Secretary of State LaRose’s Attempted Sleight of Hand, Continued Refusal to Make Voting Easier for Ohioans",2020-10-07,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,OH,Joyce Beatty,B001281,beatty.house.gov,beatty,https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC—U.S. Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (OH-03), along with U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown (OH), U.S. Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), U.S. Congresswoman Marcia Fudge (OH-11), and U.S. Congressman Tim Ryan (OH-13), penned a letter to Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose blasting him for deceptively directing alternative ballot drop boxes to be placed alongside existing units. LaRose's directive serves as little more than political cover for his ongoing, unilateral campaign to hinder Ohioans' ability to vote. The congressional quintet also urged LaRose to live up to his word and permit multiple drop boxes to be located throughout each county, in the wake of three court rulings affirming his authority to do so. ""Allowing a second drop box to be located right next to the one currently in place at county Boards of Elections is a naked attempt to provide yourself with political cover, in response to the growing calls you face from around the state to permit multiple drop boxes throughout each county. While you may have achieved the talking point that you ‘allowed multiple drop boxes per county,' your policy does nothing to make it easier for Ohioans to cast their ballot,"" the Ohio lawmakers wrote in their letter. ""Now that three courts, state and federal, have agreed that the plain meaning of the law allows for the installation of multiple drop boxes, we are writing to let you know of these court findings. Therefore, we urge you to be true to your word and immediately allow multiple secure ballot boxes to be dispersed throughout each county,"" the lawmakers continued. Their latest congressional correspondence was a follow up to a letter to LaRose, from September 18th, calling on him to comply with a Franklin County Court of Common Pleas' ruling directing him to allow multiple secure ballot drop boxes. Before that, the lawmakers drafted another letter to LaRose urging him to work with the skilled and dedicated tradespeople of Ohio to locate additional drop boxes across all 88 counties. The men and women of Ohio State Sheet Metal Workers Locals #24 and #33, as well as the Ohio State Building and Construction Trades Council, have said they stand ready to build additional secure ballot boxes, at no cost to the state. Beatty, Brown, Kaptur, Fudge, and Ryan also wrote a letter to LaRose in September asking him to use his existing authority to prepay postage for absentee ballots and ballot applications for the upcoming 2020 General Election in Ohio. In August, in the midst of an unprecedented public health crisis and the Trump Administration's attempts to undercut the United States Postal Service (USPS), LaRose inexplicably banned county boards of elections from providing more than one ballot drop box for completed absentee ballots. He acted to ban additional secure drop boxes at the same time that absentee ballot applications were ""pouring into Ohio's boards of elections at an unprecedented rate."" In response, Beatty, Brown, Kaptur, Fudge, and Ryan urged him to reconsider his decision, explaining his clear authority to permit multiple drop boxes in each county. This authority was affirmed by the Franklin County Court's recent ruling.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:34:36Z https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/ohio-congressional-democrats-urge-sec-of-state-larose-to-protect-health-and-safety-of-voters-and-poll-workers-in-november-election,Ohio Congressional Democrats Urge Sec. of State LaRose to Protect Health and Safety of Voters and Poll Workers in November Election,2020-10-05,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,OH,Joyce Beatty,B001281,beatty.house.gov,beatty,https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC—U.S. Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (OH-03), along with U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown (OH), U.S. Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), U.S. Congresswoman Marcia Fudge (OH-11), and U.S. Congressman Tim Ryan (OH-13), penned a letter to Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose urging him to immediately take action to protect the health and safety of Ohio voters and poll workers in this upcoming election. Specifically, the lawmakers urged LaRose to immediately implement the recommendations made by a coalition of 200 doctors, faith leaders, and leading voting rights advocates to ensure voters and poll workers are not forced to make the impossible decision between their health and their fundamental right to vote. The recommendations include requiring social distancing, wearing facemasks, providing the proper personal protective equipment (PPE) to poll workers, and more. ""As Ohio's Secretary of State, it is your responsibility to ensure that all Ohioans have access to safe in-person voting options and that poll workers, the backbone of our democracy, are afforded every health and safety precaution in this upcoming election. You have an urgent obligation to communicate the steps you are proactively taking to instill confidence in the machinery of democracy. We urge you to implement these recommendations, and thank you for your prompt consideration of our request,"" the Ohio lawmakers wrote in their letter. Last week, the lawmakers sent a letter to LaRose urging him to work with the skilled and dedicated tradespeople of Ohio to locate additional drop boxes across all 88 counties. The men and women of Ohio State Sheet Metal Workers Locals #24 and #33, as well as the Ohio State Building and Construction Trades Council, have said they stand ready to build additional secure ballot boxes, at no cost to the state. LaRose's recent appeal of the Franklin County Court of Common Pleas' ruling directing him to allow multiple secure ballot drop boxes is the latest example of how he has injected considerable uncertainty at an already challenging time for elections officials. On September 18th, the lawmakers sent a letter to LaRose urging him to comply with a Franklin County Court of Common Pleas' ruling directing him to allow multiple secure ballot drop boxes. Beatty, Brown, Kaptur, Fudge, and Ryan also sent a letter to LaRose in September asking him to use his existing authority to prepay postage for absentee ballots and ballot applications for the upcoming 2020 General Election in Ohio. The lawmakers also urged LaRose to communicate with the Postal Service to ensure ballots that originate in Ohio are delivered on time, with visible postmarks, and do not succumb to delays and cost cutting measures, which could endanger timely delivery of vote by mail ballots. In August, in the midst of an unprecedented public health crisis and the Trump Administration's attempts to undercut the United States Postal Service (USPS), LaRose inexplicably banned county boards of elections from providing more than one ballot drop box for completed absentee ballots. He acted to ban additional secure drop boxes at the same time that absentee ballot applications were ""pouring into Ohio's boards of elections at an unprecedented rate."" In response, Beatty, Brown, Kaptur, Fudge, and Ryan urged him to reconsider his decision, explaining his clear authority to permit multiple drop boxes in each county. This authority was affirmed by the Franklin County Court's recent ruling. The full text of the letter can be accessed on Brown's website. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:34:36Z https://davidson.house.gov/2020/10/davidson-introduces-bill-protect-veterans-benefits,Davidson Introduces Bill to Protect Veterans’ Benefits,2020-10-05,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,OH,Warren Davidson,D000626,davidson.house.gov,davidson,https://davidson.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C.—Representative Warren Davidson (R-OH) introduced a new bill to protect survivor benefits for veteran families in relation to COVID 19. The Ensuring Survivors Benefits during COVID 19 Act requires the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to obtain medical opinions when a veteran with a service-connected disability dies from COVID 19. Requiring a review of these cases ensures survivor benefits are not diminished when a service-connected disability was the principal or contributory cause of death. Additional due diligence from the VA shifts the burden from grieving families and streamlines casework to ensure that veterans and their families receive what they are owed. After introducing the bill, Congressman Davidson made the following statement: “America must always provide every benefit promised to and earned by veterans. Presently, cause of death rulings threaten benefits veterans have earned. Congress must act to ensure that the VA accurately deals with cause of death, while accounting for service-related injuries in order to properly care for all surviving family members. “I’m proud to introduce this bill to remedy a unique challenge facing families of veterans in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic. Veterans with long-term medical challenges shouldn’t have to worry that contracting COVID 19 will endanger the benefits they earned while serving our country.” The Ohio Veterans of Foreign Wars also supports the bill. ""Many service-connected conditions put veterans at a severe risk from COVID-19,"" stated Larry Moore, VFW Legislative Chairman, Department of Ohio. ""The survivors of these veterans should not be burdened with administrative obstacles when they file for the benefits to which they are entitled. The VFW thanks Representative Davidson for introducing this important legislation, which would require VA to secure a medical opinion to ascertain whether a service-connected disability contributed to the cause of death for veterans who die of COVID-19.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:34:36Z https://anthonygonzalez.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=290,"Congressman Gonzalez introduces bill to reshape health savings programs, put health care in the hands of families",2020-10-02,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,OH,Anthony Gonzalez,G000588,anthonygonzalez.house.gov,,,legacy,"U.S. Congressman Anthony Gonzalez (R-Rocky River) has introduced the Family First Medisave Empowerment Act to offer a personal medical savings or Medisave account to every American and their family. The bill would re-center America's health care system around individuals and families and provide Americans a form of self-insurance with the goal of helping more families save and pay for their care tax-free. Too many Americans are struggling to afford their medical care, and the COVID-19 pandemic has only served to highlight the serious flaws in our health care system, said Congressman Gonzalez. We need to do more to provide families flexibility and control over how their healthcare dollars are spent. With patients in charge, we can drive down costs and force insurers and providers to compete on quality and affordability. H.R. 8473, the Family First Medisave Empowerment Act, simplifies tax-advantaged accounts for health care expenses by merging Health Savings Accounts (HSA), Health Reimbursement Accounts (HRA), and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) into one simple, and easy to use Medisave account (MDA) that is owned by individuals and families rather than employers. Unlike HSAs today, Medisave accounts would be available to anyone with private insurance, regardless of their deductible, as well as to those on Medicare and Medicaid. The bill expands upon the Department of Health and Human Services HRA rule by permitting individuals to use their Medisave accounts towards the purchase of any type of insurance from their employer, their spouse's employer, or health insurance marketplace. It also takes important steps to offer financial support to lower-income Americans by offering a one-time refundable federal tax credit of up to $1,000 to low-income individuals who open an account and establishing a new waiver for states to support their most vulnerable populations refocusing dollars currently going to health insurers and converting them into Medisave distributions made directly to low-income individuals and families.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/beatty-backed-bill-boosts-central-ohio-covid-19-testing-efforts,Beatty Backed Bill Boosts Central Ohio COVID-19 Testing Efforts,2020-10-01,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,OH,Joyce Beatty,B001281,beatty.house.gov,beatty,https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"COLUMBUS, OH—U.S. Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (OH-03) announced today that the National Institutes of Health (NIH) awarded $5 million to The Ohio State University to improve COVID-19 testing disparities among underserved and vulnerable populations. Funding was made available through the Paycheck Protection Program and Health Care Enhancement Act, P.L. 116-139, a law Beatty helped pass in the U.S. House of Representatives. ""The COVID-19 Pandemic has impacted the lives of all Americans, but the sad fact is that it has been especially devastating on communities color,"" Beatty said. ""Right now, in State of Ohio, Black Americans represent nearly 20 percent of all COVID-19 cases and 18 percent of all deaths, yet account for 13 percent of the state's population. Unfortunately, these sobering statistics mirror those in almost every other state, not to mention nationally."" She added, ""I believe the federal government has an obligation to protect the health and safety of everyone, and according to medical experts that begins with expanding testing. As the Representative of Ohio's Third Congressional District, I am committed to doing just that, and working hard to increase access so that anyone who needs a test can get one."" Ohio State is one of 32 institutions to receive NIH Rapid Acceleration of Diagnostics (RADx) funds to help pay for projects designed to rapidly implement COVID-19 testing. The RADx Underserved Populations (RADx-UP) program supports research that aims to better understand COVID-19 testing patterns among people of color and vulnerable populations; strengthen the data on disparities in infection rates, disease progression and outcomes; and develop strategies to reduce the disparities in COVID-19 testing, treatment, and contact tracing.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:34:36Z https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-beatty-heralds-updated-heroes-act-votes-to-put-american-workers-families-and-small-businesses-first,"Congresswoman Beatty Heralds Updated Heroes Act, Votes to Put American Workers, Families, and Small Businesses First",2020-10-01,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,OH,Joyce Beatty,B001281,beatty.house.gov,beatty,https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C.—U.S. Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (OH-03) voted today in support of an updated version of The Heroes Act, H.R. 925. Passed by the U.S. House of Representatives on May 15, 2020, the original Heroes Act, H.R. 6800, has been languishing in Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell's (KY) self-described ‘legislative graveyard' for 139 days and counting—all the while American families and small businesses needlessly suffer due to Republican stinginess and lack of human compassion. ""Almost 20 weeks ago, House Democrats passed The Heroes Act: a big, bold, ‘For the People' piece of legislation to provide another round of direct economic impact payments, extend emergency unemployment benefits, guarantee hazard pay for frontline workers, and make significant investments in state and local governments, food and rental assistance, COVID-19 testing, and contact tracing. Unfortunately, Senate Republicans and the White House have refused to come to the negotiation table in good faith since that time,"" Beatty said. ""It is obvious to everybody—except for Senator McConnell and the Trump Administration, apparently—that Congress must act immediately to further help struggling workers, families, small businesses, and our economy."" She continued, ""So, today, I joined my Democratic colleagues to do just that, and I call on Congressional Republicans to do the same because the lives and livelihoods of all Americans are at stake."" The $2.2 trillion updated version of The Heroes Act protects lives, livelihoods, and the life of our democracy. Highlights include: Provides additional direct payments, cushioning the economic blow of the COVID-19 crisis with a more robust second round of economic impact payments of $1,200 per taxpayer and $500 per dependent. Restores emergency unemployment benefits, ensuring weekly $600 federal unemployment payments through next January and preventing unemployed workers from exhausting their eligibility. Strong support for small businesses, improving the Paycheck Protection Program to serve the smallest businesses and struggling nonprofits, providing hard-hit businesses with second loans, and delivering targeted assistance for the struggling restaurant industry Protects payrolls, enhancing the new employee retention tax credit that encourages employers to keep employees on payroll. Bolsters housing assistance, helping struggling families afford a safe place to live with tens of billions in new supports to assist renters and homeowners make monthly rent, mortgage, utility payments, and other housing-related costs. Strengthens food security, addressing rising hunger with a 15 percent increase to the maximum SNAP benefit and additional funding for nutrition programs that help families put food on the table. Preserves healthcare coverage, protecting Americans from losing their employer-provided health insurance by automatically granting unemployed Americans the maximum ACA subsidy on the exchanges, as well as providing a special enrollment period in the ACA exchanges for uninsured Americans. Supports testing, tracing, and treatment, through $75 billion for coronavirus testing, contact tracing and isolation measures, with special attention to the disparities facing communities of color, ensuring every American can access free coronavirus treatment, and supporting hospitals and providers. The updated bill also includes $28 billion for procurement, distribution, and education campaigns for a safe and effective vaccine. More funds to bolster education and childcare, with $225 billion for education—including $182 billion for K-12 schools and nearly $39 billion for postsecondary education—and another $57 billion to support childcare for families Honors our heroes, investing $436 billion to provide one year's worth of assistance to state, local, territorial, and tribal governments who desperately need funds to pay vital workers like first responders and healthcare professional who are keeping us safe yet are in danger of losing their jobs. Safeguards our democracy, with new resources to ensure safe elections, an accurate Census, and preserve the United States Postal Service operations. # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:34:36Z https://davidson.house.gov/2020/10/davidson-votes-against-irresponsible-heroes-package,Davidson Votes Against Irresponsible HEROES Package,2020-10-01,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,OH,Warren Davidson,D000626,davidson.house.gov,davidson,https://davidson.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"“This partisan COVID bill is an insult to my constituents in southwest Ohio. It relies on printing money, which devalues the hard-work and savings of Eighth District residents, and it misapplies this printed money toward policies like the $15 per hour federal unemployment expansion, which pays people more not to work. While some federal assistance is merited in this economy, no one should make more for not working than for working. “Meanwhile, the bill does nothing to address liability concerns for businesses and organizations—something the economy needs in order to reopen with confidence. We need to focus on safely restarting the economy—not prolonging uncertainty by paying people to stay home and preventing business owners from reopening. Printed money is a poor substitute for America’s strong economy.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:34:36Z https://wenstrup.house.gov/updates/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=404424,Wenstrup Statement on Democrat COVID Supplemental Spending Bill,2020-10-01,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,OH,Brad Wenstrup,W000815,wenstrup.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today, Congressman Brad Wenstrup (OH-02) issued the following statement after voting against the House Democrats' retooled Health and Economic Recovery Omnibus Emergency Solutions Act:Unfortunately, Speaker Pelosi continues to play political games while Americans in need go without assistance. Rather than working in good faith with Republicans, she has rejected bipartisan cooperation and again pushed through a bill that includes too much spending and too many provisions unrelated to overcoming the COVID-19 outbreak and restoring our way of life. Congress still has time to provide relief to the American people, but it will require Democrats to meet Republicans in the middle, said Congressman Wenstrup. He also added: In the meantime, Congress should immediately pass Congressman Steve Chabot's legislation to allow businesses to access the over $100 billion remaining in Paycheck Protection Program. I'm proud to have signed Congresswoman Jaime Herrera Beutler's discharge petition to force a vote on this critical legislation and hope that Democrats will join our efforts.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://anthonygonzalez.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=289,"Congressman Gonzalez and House China Task Force unveil report, policy recommendations to push back on China",2020-09-30,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,OH,Anthony Gonzalez,G000588,anthonygonzalez.house.gov,,,legacy,"U.S. Congressman Anthony Gonzalez joined his fellow co-chairs of the House China Task Force today to unveil their report detailing the malign actions of the People's Republic of China and putting forth policy recommendations and legislative strategies to combat the threat posed by the Chinese Communist Party. I firmly believe that the Chinese Communist Party is one of the largest threats facing our country today, and if we hope to protect our future economic success and national security, we must take action now to significantly recalibrate our relationship with the People's Republic of China and work to hold the Chinese Communist Party accountable on the global stage, said Congressman Gonzalez. From their persistent abuse of international organizations and agreements, to their neglect for the human rights of their own people and the deadly mishandling of the coronavirus pandemic that has now claimed the lives of over one million people, the Chinese Communist Party has demonstrated blatant irresponsibility and malign intent that cannot be allowed to continue unchecked to the detriment of the American people, our livelihoods, and our businesses. Congressman Gonzalez served as a co-chair of the pillars on Competitiveness, and Economics and Energy for the China Task Force and helped to craft and promote a number of policy and legislative proposals included in the report, including recommendations to promote U.S. leadership in emerging technologies and US influence around the world. Additionally, Congressman Gonzalez's Holding Foreign Companies Accountable Act, CONFUCIUS Act, and Accountability for World Bank Loans to China Act are all included in the report as recommended legislation for Congress to adopt. All three of these bills also passed the U.S. House of Representatives as part of the National Defense Authorization Act earlier this year. For years, American leaders have tried to bring the Chinese Communist Party into the international community as a responsible partner by expanding our economic relationship with them and often turning a blind eye to their malign actions. As a result of this approach, the Chinese Communist Party in the past year alone has violated an international treaty by dismantling Hong Kong's civil liberties, continued its oppression of ethnic minorities, including Uyghurs and Tibetans, increased its military buildup and belligerence and violated other nations' sovereignty at sea, engaged in fatal skirmishes to conduct a land-grab on the Indian border, and silenced doctors and suppressed vital medical information from the world about COVID-19, allowing what could have been a local outbreak to turn into a global pandemic that has killed over one million people to date and devastated the world economy. The China Task Force Report serves as a blueprint for realistic, achievable and multi-faceted actions Congress and the Administration can take now to help the United States best confront the growing threat of the Chinese Communist Party. Of the over 400 recommendations made in the report, two-thirds of the bills are bipartisan in nature, while one-third have already passed either the House or the Senate. In total, the China Task Force engaged with more than 130 leaders to provide insights and solutions for the comprehensive plan, which is broken down into six chapters: ideological competition, supply chain, national security, technology, energy and economics, and competitiveness. Read the full China Task Force Report here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://chabot.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=401074,"Food System Small Businesses Share Challenges, Pivots in Response to COVID-19",2020-09-30,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,OH,Steven Chabot,C000266,chabot.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON - Today, the House Committee on Small Business heard from small business owners and other witnesses on the impact of COVID-19 on the nation's food system. America's food system has been hit particularly hard: our favorite restaurants were closed; meat sections were low at grocery stores; and many essentials were sold out. Our nation's food system is typically geared to meet commercial demand, from restaurants, buffets, and cafeterias, more than retail demand from grocery stores. When our food demand flipped from eating out to cooking at home, businesses along the supply chain had to pivot to survive,said Ranking Member Steve Chabot (R-OH).At this Committee we understand the power of our nation's innovative spirit. Now the rest of the country can see it firsthand. Investments being made by small businesses across the supply chain are creating a more resilient food system for all of us. Pivots Include Direct-to-Consumer Models, Home Delivery In addition to the people employed directly at Seventh Son, our brewery helps to support countless jobs throughout Ohio from the people our wholesalers employ to help sell our beer to the farmers that grow our hops and barley. A smooth supply chain is imperative to the success of our brewery and is equally beneficial to our partners. I have always been proud of the fact that for every new job created by our brewing industry, there are twenty-four jobs generated in the industries that help us brew and sell our beer,said Mr. Collin Castore, Owner, Seventh Son Brewing, President, Ohio Craft Brewers Association (OCBA), in Columbus, OH.At Seventh Son we have our own canning line and some existing relationships with grocery chains that helped us to absorb most of this on-premise volume loss. On March 16, we began a home delivery business and carryout sales model out of our shuttered taprooms. These measures were a lifeline but our head is barely above water. With capacity limits in place at many restaurants and the closure of many other public eating venues, seafood companies all across the supply chain are at serious risk of failing. Many struggling companies rushed to freeze and store product, some even began selling directly to consumers. Even with that effort, millions of dollars' worth of fresh product that could not be sold or stored had to be destroyed,said Ms. Kimberly Gorton, President and CEO, Slade Gorton & Co, Inc. in Boston, MA.Ms. Gorton testified on behalf of the National Fisheries Institute. Even with partial reopenings, restaurant operators are faced with increased costs at a time when many are operating at below break-even capacity It is only through ingenuity, resilience, grit, and determination that companies like Slade Gorton have been able to survive thus far Now that food service establishments are open, they will need to rely on their suppliers to continue to provide credit so they can restock their kitchen. We are now faced with choosing to extend further credit at some risk or abandoning what are in many cases decades-long customer relationships. Independent grocers like me are deeply rooted in the communities we serve. Since mid-March, independent grocers have experienced sustained and historic levels of demand for grocery and household products. We have had to adapt to large volumes of customers stocking up weeks worth of foods, straining the supply of key product categories like paper, cleaning supplies, and shelf-stable products,said Mr. Jimmy Wright, President, Wright's Market, in Opelika, AL.Mr. Wright testified on behalf of the National Grocers Association.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://davidson.house.gov/2020/9/davidson-votes-against-misguided-bill-uyghur-labor,Davidson Votes Against Misguided Bill on Uyghur Labor,2020-09-30,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,OH,Warren Davidson,D000626,davidson.house.gov,davidson,https://davidson.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C.—Citing procedural and enforcement concerns, Congressman Warren Davidson (R-OH) voted against the Uyghur Forced Labor Disclosure Act today. The bill seeks to sanction China for its egregious crimes against Uyghur Muslims—including forced labor—in the Xinjiang region of China. If signed into law, the bill would require publicly traded companies to disclose business dealings in Xinjiang Province. While well-intentioned, the Act would empower the Securities and Exchange Commission to police disclosures, expanding the Commission’s power from preventing fraud to policing social justice issues. After being one of only three representatives voting against a bill with similar provisions last week, more Republicans joined Davidson in voting against this bill today. “I’m appalled at the grave violations of human rights being perpetrated against the Uyghurs in China. We can and should sanction China until it addresses this humanitarian crisis. However, this is clearly the proper role for both the State Department and the U.S. Treasury—not the SEC. “In the interest of continuing to fight against China’s unfair trading, I hope the United States will continue to put economic pressure on China and defend American manufacturers from anti-competitive practices. However, it is already illegal to import goods into the United States that were manufactured using slave labor. Let’s keep the SEC focused on its job and use the proper agencies to address China’s many issues.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:28:51Z https://turner.house.gov/2020/9/turner-supports-ppp-extension-for-small-biz,TURNER Supports PPP Extension for Small Biz,2020-09-30,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,OH,Michael R. Turner,T000463,turner.house.gov,turner,https://turner.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,,0,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/beatty-announces-new-33-million-grant-for-nationwide-children-s-hospital,Beatty Announces New $3.3+ Million Grant for Nationwide Children’s Hospital,2020-09-29,2020,2020-09,Democrat,House,OH,Joyce Beatty,B001281,beatty.house.gov,beatty,https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"COLUMBUS, OH—U.S. Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (OH-03) is proud to announce that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) recently awarded Nationwide Children's Hospital $3,371,484 through its Children's Hospitals Graduate Medical Education (CHGME) Payment Program. ""The importance of highly-trained doctors and medical professionals cannot be overstated—especially as our nation continues to grapple with the COVID-19 Pandemic,"" Beatty said. ""Every day, we have all seen, heard and read reports about the dedicated men and women on the frontlines who are working hard for all of us."" She added, ""This grant will ensure that they are equipped with the much-needed tools and skills to continue their lifesaving efforts today, tomorrow, and for years to come on behalf of the children of Ohio's Third Congressional District."" CHGME provides federal funds to the nation's freestanding, children's hospitals to help them maintain their graduate medical education (GME) programs that train resident physicians and dentists. The CHGME Program enables hospitals to provide education to medical school graduates, enhance research capabilities, and care for vulnerable and underserved children.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:28:51Z