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://doggett.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/washington-dc-wric-americans-are-hopeful-covid-19-vaccines-will-make-2021,ABC News8: Congressman calls for FDA to continue vaccine trials,2020-12-29,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,TX,Lloyd Doggett,D000399,doggett.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. (WRIC) Americans are hopeful that the COVID-19 vaccines will make 2021 a better year than 2020. However, there are concerns that Pfizer and Moderna will stop their clinical trials and immediately treat everyone in their placebo group. Some scientists, doctors and now a Congressman argues that can be dangerous because they said there is still so much unknown about the vaccines. Rep. Lloyd Doggett of Texas wrote a letter to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) urging for the clinical trials to continue. the continuation of clinical trials is critical to our understanding of the efficacy and length of immunity the vaccines offer, Doggett wrote. In the letter, Doggett said while the initial results received from Pfizer and Moderna are showing positive results, it's not definitive given the limited data. Clinical trials have suffered from a lack of diverse participant enrollment and evaluation of subpopulations, Doggett said. Including individuals with comorbidities, children, pregnant and breastfeeding patients, long-term care residents and individuals with diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds. Diana Zuckerman, President of the National Center for Health Research, a non-partisan think tank in Washington D.C., agrees that the clinical trials should continue. She said healthcare workers who volunteered for the clinical trials should have immediate access to the vaccine if they want it. Like most public health experts, I've been very concerned that Pfizer and Moderna told the FDA that they want to stop their clinical trials of the COVID vaccine and instead immediately inoculate everyone in their placebo groups, Zuckerman said. While I understand the desire to reward the clinical trial volunteers for their service, it would be a huge loss of information from a public health point of view. Losing the placebo group means we'd have no way to scientifically determine which of the vaccines if any have 95% efficacy rates that last more than 2 or 3 months. Or how long the vaccine works on people over 75. Zuckerman added the people who volunteer for the clinical trials shouldn't be vaccinated before those in priority groups such as teachers, essential workers, etc. Since many of the study volunteers are young and healthy, it also seems unfair for them to cut in line for a vaccine while healthcare workers and others at high risk are still waiting their turn, she said.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=406003,"Rep. Cuellar Votes to Increase Economic Impact Payments to $2,000",2020-12-28,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,TX,Henry Cuellar,C001063,cuellar.house.gov,,,legacy,"Rep. Cuellar Votes to Increase Economic Impact Payments to $2,000 Washington, D.C.Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) voted for the Caring for Americans with Supplemental Help (CASH) Act of 2020 to increase the amount of money struggling Americans receive in a second round of direct payments to $2,000. Millions of Americansare struggling to put food on the table, to pay their rent or mortgage, or to keep up with medical bills that they have accumulated over this difficult year, said Congressman Cuellar. I voted to pass the CASH Act to put $2,000 into the pockets of Americans in need and help alleviate some of the economic hardship they are currently facing. I urge my colleagues in the Senate to bring this important legislation to the floor before the legislative session ends. As a senior member of the Appropriations Committee, I will continue to fight for the additional support that Americans require as we continue to battle the COVID-19 crisis. After the President changed his mind last week and decided to support Democrats' call for increasing direct payments to $2,000, HouseDemocrats immediately went to the Floor to askfor Unanimous Consent to bring a stand-alone bill to increase the payments. On Christmas Eve, House Republicans blocked the request depriving the American people of the increased $2,000 check that the President supported. The CASH Act: Increases the value of the economic impact payments (EIPs) provided in the end-of-year COVID relief package so that each eligible family member receives $2,000, up from $600. Applies the same, broader eligibility established in the end-of-year package to mixed-status families where one spouse has a Social Security Number (SSN). As specified in the latest COVID relief legislation, these families are eligible for the EIP amount for each family member with an SSN, and can claim the corresponding amount for the first round of economic impact payments when they file their 2020 taxes.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://algreen.house.gov/press-release/congressman-al-green-votes-yes-2000-stimulussurvival-checks-american-people,"Congressman Al Green Votes Yes to $2,000 Stimulus/Survival Checks for the American People",2020-12-28,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,TX,Al Green,G000553,algreen.house.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, D.C.) On Monday, December 28, 2020, Congressman Al Green released the following statement after the passage of H.R. 9051: Tonight's vote will mark where we stood when the American people needed the government to act. After nine months of an economic and health crisis that has gripped the nation, leaving many jobless, threatening homelessness and exposure to this deadly coronavirus, House Democrats and Republicans voted to put money in the pockets of Americans at a time when they desperately need it, Congressman Al Green stated. By voting to increase direct stimulus payments to $2,000, we do more than stimulate the economy; we do the essential task of our government by helping those suffering from a pandemic-induced economic crisis survive. Congressman Green added, The President has indicated that he will sign H.R. 9051, Caring for Americans with Supplemental Help Act of 2020, into law. The only question left to be answered is will the Senate give hardworking Americans the same kind of help given to the very wealthy by way of tax breaks, or will the Senate conclude that the wealthy need more to do more and that workers in need can do more with less?",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://algreen.house.gov/press-release/congressman-al-green-votes-yes-override-president-trump%E2%80%99s-harmful-ndaa-veto,Congressman Al Green Votes Yes to Override President Trumps Harmful NDAA Veto,2020-12-28,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,TX,Al Green,G000553,algreen.house.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, D.C.) On Monday, December 28, 2020, Congressman Al Green released the following statement after voting YES' to overriding President Trump's veto of the FY2021 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA): By overriding the President's veto of the NDAA, we have done more than send a message to the President that bipartisanship can prevail. We have in fact sent a message to our troops that we will protect them not only while they are on the battlefield; we will protect them when they return to the home front, Congressman Al Green stated. It is our duty to assure them that we will do all that we can to provide them with more than the weaponry needed to win wars; we must provide them with good housing, good health care, and good pay when they are serving on active duty as well as good housing, good health care, educational opportunities, and good jobs when they leave active duty. This is the least a grateful nation can do for those who are willing to make the ultimate sacrifice because, in truth, either we will protect our protectors, or we won't have protectors to protect us. Congressman Green who in a Christmas Eve press conference indicated his readiness to return to Washington, D.C., and cast his vote to override President Trump's veto added, A successful veto of this bill would have meant: risking family leave for our civilian VA employees; foregoing a 3% increase in pay for our troops; losing suicide prevention and resilience resources; upholding the memorialization on military bases of the legacies of men who fought to defend our nation's original sin slavery. Allowing this veto to prevail would only harm our nation's veterans and active duty personnel and would contradict the ideals our nation fights abroad to uphold. Our veterans and active duty personnel deserve more, and it is our government's duty to deliver.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://doggett.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/doggett-trump-delayed-approval-disgraceful-relief-bill,Doggett on Trump Delayed Approval of Disgraceful Relief Bill,2020-12-28,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,TX,Lloyd Doggett,D000399,doggett.house.gov,,,legacy,"***For Immediate Release*** FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 28, 2020 Contact:Kate Stotesbery 202-494-4620 Doggett on Trump Delayed Approval of Disgraceful Relief Bill Washington, D.C. One week ago today, President Trump's designated representative approved the COVID relief bill including $600 in direct payments to eligible Americans. The next day, Trump condemned that bill as a ""disgrace."" Yesterday, he finally signed the same ""disgraceful"" bill. After voting this afternoon to increase relief payments to $2,000, U.S. Representative Lloyd Doggett (D-TX) released this statement: All that Trump's chaotic delay has accomplished is the denial of one week of unemployment compensation to millions of desperate Americans, unemployed through no fault of their own.Other than a few tweets and harsh words, Trump has done nothing to increase direct relief payments, which the House is approving today over Republican objections and which the Republican Senate Leader will block. ### Follow Congressman Doggett Facebook:https://www.Facebook.com/RepLloydDoggett | Twitter: @RepLloydDoggett| Instagram: @RepLloydDoggett",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://gonzalez.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-gonzalez-helps-secure-critical-funds-coronavirus-relief-bill,Congressman Gonzalez Helps Secure Critical Funds in Coronavirus Relief Bill,2020-12-28,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,TX,Vicente Gonzalez,G000581,gonzalez.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON On Sunday evening, President Trump signed the bipartisan coronavirus compromise relief bill into law. Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) fought for fundsto supportvaccine distribution,maintainunemployment insurance,expandbroadband access, andassist education institutionsinCentral andSouth Texas. Our most important job as members of Congress is to make sure that we take care of the American people.$600 is not enough and this new law lacks funding for state and local governments which will impact how we pay salaries for our law enforcement officers, teachers and frontline workers,said Congressman Gonzalez.While far from perfect,thisbipartisanagreementdoesgive working familiesand small businesses asmalllifeline.We oweit toour frontline workers and all of those impacted by the coronavirus to get this right. Ilook forward to working with the incoming Biden-Harris administration to deliver more relieftothe American people. The agreement includes: Acceleration of vaccine distribution andcombatingthe coronavirus:$69 billion in critically needed funding for COVID-19 testing, contact tracing, vaccines, mental health, and support for health care providers. Included in this funding is $22 billion for testing, contact tracing, surveillance and mitigation, $19 billion for vaccines and therapeutics, including the manufacture, production, and purchase of vaccines, therapeutics and ancillary supplies, and nearly $9 billion in additional funding to support distribution of lifesaving COVID-19 vaccines that will help bring an end to the pandemic. Education and childcare:The agreementprovides$82 billion in funding for colleges and schools, including support for HVAC repair and replacement to mitigate virus transmission and reopen classrooms, and $10 billion for child care assistance to help get parents back to work and keep child care providers open.Texas is estimated to receivea totalof$7,555,750infunds composed oftheGovernor'sEducation Emergency Fund,Elementary and SecondarySchool Emergency Fund and the Higher EducationEmergency ReliefFund. Delivers More Affordable Broadband Access:The agreement invests $7 billion to increase access to broadband, including a new Emergency Broadband Benefit to helpSouth and Central Texasstudents, families and unemployed workers afford the broadband they need during the pandemic.This includes expanded access for rural communities, with more than $730 million in the expansion of broadband service to provide economic development opportunities and improved education and health care services. Direct payment checks:Congressman Gonzalez was instrumental in securing a new round of direct payments worth up to $600 per adult and child, also ensuring that mixed-status families receive payments. Strengthened Earned Income Tax Credit & Child Tax Credit:The agreement helps ensure that families who faced unemployment or reduced wages during the pandemic are able to receive a strong tax credit based on their 2019 income, preserving these vital income supports for vulnerable families. Supports paid sick leave:The agreement provides a tax credit to support employers offering paid sick leave, based on the Families First framework. Employee Retention Tax Credit:The agreement extends and improves the Employee Retention Tax Credit to help keep workers in the jobs during coronavirus closures or reduced revenue. Enhanced Unemployment Insurance benefits:Added a $300 per week UI enhancement for Americans out of work. Rental assistance:$25 billion in critically needed rental assistance for families struggling to stay in their homes and an extension of the eviction moratorium. Strong Support for Small Businesses:The agreement includes over $284 billion for first and second forgivablePaycheck Protection Program(PPP) loans, dedicates set-asides for very small businesses and lending through community-based lenders like CommunityDevelopment FinanceInstitutions and Minority DepositoryInstitutions, key modifications to PPP to serve the smallest businesses and struggling non-profits and better assist independent restaurants, $15 billion in dedicated funding for live venues, independent movie theaters, and cultural institutions and $20 billion for targetedEconomic Injury Disaster LoanGrants which are critical to many smaller businesses on Main Street. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=405995,Rep. Cuellars Statement on Vote to Increase Economic Impact Payments,2020-12-23,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,TX,Henry Cuellar,C001063,cuellar.house.gov,,,legacy,"Rep. Cuellar's Statement on Vote to Increase Economic Impact Payments Washington, D.C.Congressman Henry Cuellar released the following statement in support of a vote by Unanimous Consent to increase the economic impact payments to $2,000: House Democrats and I have been fighting for more direct payments to the American people since the beginning. In May, I voted for the Heroes Act, which provided up to $6,000 in direct payments per household, because we recognized these payments are a critical lifeline during this crisis. However, during negotiations, Republicans refused to say the highest number that the President would accept for checks and would never go above $600 and in some cases $500. Since the President has agreed with House Democrats to increase direct payments to $2000, we now are waiting for Republican leadership to support our Unanimous Consent request. Families across the country are still hurting and they deserve additional relief immediately. I am ready to increase direct payments to save the lives and livelihoods of the American people. I am calling on my colleagues across the aisle to join. Enough time has been wasted. It's time for action- let's vote.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://doggett.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/pelosi-dear-colleague-unanimous-consent-request-increase-economic-impact,PELOSI -- Dear Colleague on Unanimous Consent Request to Increase Economic Impact Payments,2020-12-23,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,TX,Lloyd Doggett,D000399,doggett.house.gov,,,legacy,"Dear Democratic Colleague, Just when you think you have seen it all, last night, the President said that he would possibly veto the bicameral agreement negotiated between Republicans and Democrats. He said he would do so, unless the economic impact payments were increased to $2,000. In the bipartisan negotiations, Leader Schumer and I repeatedly asked Republicans what would be the highest number the President would accept for direct payments, and they responded with Sphinx-like silence. In the negotiations, they would never go above $600 and in some cases, proposed $500. Yesterday, I said that Democrats would go to the Floor and ask for Unanimous Consent to bring up a standalone bill to increase the payments. To do so requires the agreement of the Republican Leader. This agreement is necessary in the House and in the Senate. If the President truly wants to join us in $2,000 payments, he should call upon Leader McCarthy to agree to our Unanimous Consent request. We are scheduled to go in for a pro forma session tomorrow at 9:00 a.m. We are awaiting word from Leader Hoyer as to whether Leader McCarthy will agree to or reject our Unanimous Consent request. The entire country knows that it is urgent for the President to sign this bill, both to provide the coronavirus relief and to keep government open. Let us pray! Nancy",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=405984,Rep. Cuellar Secures Passage of Reauthorization of Donations Acceptance Program,2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,TX,Henry Cuellar,C001063,cuellar.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) secured the passage of the Donations Acceptance Program Reauthorization Act of 2020 in both the House and Senate. The Donations Acceptance Program (DAP) enables U.S. Customs and Border Protection's (CBP) and the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) to explore, create and facilitate partnerships for improvements on port of entry infrastructures and technology, with the investment made by the local entities. Congressman Cuellar was able to pass this legislation as part of the emergency coronavirus relief and 2021 spending package. The Donations Acceptance Program is a critical method to invest and expedite improvements at ports of entry in the United States, said Congressman Cuellar. I established this program in 2013 and worked hard to expand it to create jobs, support trade industries and tourism, reduce border wait times, and increase border security. This reauthorization will only further expand our economic growth and security throughout our nation by making necessary improvements to our ports of entry. As the representative of the busiest land port of entry, I am committed to improving our infrastructure to improve the safe and efficient flow of legitimate trade and travel. The Border Trade Alliance offers tremendous thanks to Congressman Cuellar and Senator Cornyn for their successful bipartisan leadership to extend the DAP program that has proven to be an effective tool for the public and private sectors to work together to modernize border infrastructure, Border Trade Alliance President Ms. Britton Mullen said. We look forward to working with Congress and the administration over the next year to strengthen this already successful program. The reauthorization of DAP will extend to December 16, 2021. The goal of DAP is to work with communities along the border to help equip CBP's frontline officers and trade specialists with the tools and capabilities they need to operate more effectively. Accepted donations may be used in support of a wide array of CBP operations and may include new lanes, inspection booths, inspection technologies, intellectual property rights enforcement tools, and more. In 2013, Congressman Cuellar successfully added legislative language in Appropriations Act that authorized a pilot program in which CBP could enter into agreements to receive donations of property or non-personal services at ports of entry. In 2016, Congressman Cuellar and Senator John Cornyn passed H.R. 875, the Cross-Border Trade Enhancement Act of 2016, which built on this pilot program. Since its inception, the DAP has entered into 40 partnerships, leveraging investments worth $219 million in POEs, primarily on the southwest border.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://doggett.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/doggett-legislation-expanding-student-eligibility-pell-grants,Doggett Legislation Expanding Student Eligibility for Pell Grants & Simplifying FAFSA Approved by Congress,2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,TX,Lloyd Doggett,D000399,doggett.house.gov,,,legacy,"***For Immediate Release*** FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 22, 2020 Contact:Kate Stotesbery 202-494-4620 Doggett Legislation Expanding Student Eligibility for Pell Grants & Simplifying FAFSA Approved by Congress Washington, D.C. As this year's January 15 FAFSA deadline approaches, legislation authored by U.S. Representative Lloyd Doggett (D-TX) to expand access to federal financial and simplify the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) was included in the COVID relief package, just approved by Congress. He released this statement: Most every family helping a student prepare for college goes through the time-consuming and often confusing task of completing the FAFSA.This process is so burdensome that $2.6 billion in free student aid has gone unused because manyparticularly low-income or first-generation college studentsdecide not to apply. For more than a decade, I have been trying to simplify that task and open financial aid to more students. This relief package contains a number of provisions that, working with Austin nonprofit College Forward, I proposed in theEquitable Student Aid Access Act that I first filed in 2015. By simplifying the FAFSA and making more students eligible to receive the Pell Grant, we can remove financial obstacles so more students can secure all of the education for which they are willing to work. I salute retiring Senator Lamar Alexander for his bipartisan leadership on FAFSA and other higher education provisions in this bill. Austin Buchan, Chief Executive Officer of College Forward, shared: After arguably the most difficult academic year in the last century, we are thrilled to see FAFSA simplification included in the latest stimulus package. Students from economically disadvantaged and first generation families have endured historic challenges on their paths to and through college. This move to dramatically simplify access to federal financial aid will open doors to millions of students in our hardest hit communities. We are grateful to Representative Doggett, Senator Lamar Alexander, and countless others who have made this a top policy priority for years, and share in this victory with College Forward's community of 15,000 students and their families. TheEquitable Student Aid Access Act will ensure that any student receiving a number of a federal means-tested benefits is eligible for the simplified needs test, putting students on track to receive the Pell Grant and ensuring the FAFSA is more simple for low-income families. The bill also increases the household income threshold used to determine whether a student qualifies for the full Pell Grant, ensuring that our most vulnerable students have access to the resources they need. Finally, the bill ensures students can begin filling the FAFSA on October 1 by allowing families to use necessary tax information. This major legislative progress comes in the middle of FAFSA season for families; the deadline to complete the FAFSA for students planning to attend a public college or university in Texas is fast-approaching, as the priority deadline for the 2021-2022 school year is January 15, 2021. Particularly in the continuing economic hardship of this pandemic, it is critical that families of future first-generation college students and current students can access financial aid. Families who need assistance completing their FAFSA can get support from a number of local partners throughout central Texas: Click here to sign up for financial aid workshops and individual appointments hosted by the Austin Chamber of Commerce, Austin Community College, and Red Kite Click here sign up for virtual financial aid advising sessions hosted by Cafcollege ### Follow Congressman Doggett Facebook:https://www.Facebook.com/RepLloydDoggett | Twitter: @RepLloydDoggett| Instagram: @RepLloydDoggett",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=405985,"Rep. Cuellar Secures Passage of Bipartisan, Bicameral Bill Promoting US-Mexico Economic Partnership",2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,TX,Henry Cuellar,C001063,cuellar.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.-- Today, Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) secured the passage of H.R. 133, the United States-Mexico Economic Partnership Act. This bill, which passed both the House and the Senate, served as vehicle for the emergency coronavirus relief and 2021 omnibus package. This bipartisan, bicameral legislation will bolster professional development and economic growth in both countries with a focus on the energy, health, entrepreneurship, and education sectors. The goal of the bill is to promote a bilingual workforce that can better serve both sides of the border and increase economic development in the region. In 2019, Mexico became the largest trading partner of the United States. Every day, $1.6 billion worth of trade crosses our southern border, directly supporting American and Mexican businesses, farmers and jobs, said Congressman Cuellar. I introduced the United States-Mexico Economic Partnership Act so we can continue to deepen our relationship with Mexico both through economic integration and educational programs. Increasing academic exchanges in the energy, business, education, and health sectors will increase economic prosperity in both nations and allow us to further capitalize on the strengths each country has to offer. As the Chair of the U.S.-Mexico Inter-Parliamentary Group, I am committed to expanding our economic partnership through increased cooperation, interconnection, and integration of ideas. I want to thank Senator Cornyn for his help in ushering support in the Senate. According to the Institute of International Education, in the 2015-2016 academic year, more than 56,000 U.S. students studied in other countries in the Western Hemisphere, while more than 84,000 non-U.S. students from the region studied in the U.S., but only 5,000 of those United States students studied in Mexico and only 16,000 of those non-U.S. students were from Mexico. Increasing Bilateral Economic Integration Both countries have benefited from bilateral, mutually beneficial partnerships focused on advancing each country's economic interests. Under the United States-Mexico Economic Partnership Act, the State Department would create a strategy to further support economic relations between the U.S. and Mexico through academic and professional programs to contribute to this goal. Expanding Professional and Educational Exchange Programs The measure will require the State Department to develop a plan that expands educational and professional exchange programs with Mexico through the framework of the 100,000 Strong in the Americas Initiative, The Young Leaders of the Americas Initiative (YLAI), Jvenes en Accin (Youth in Action), Fulbright Foreign Student Program, and Fulbright Visiting Scholar Program. Specifically, it will: 1. Encourage more academic exchange programs at the secondary, post-secondary, and post-graduate levels; 2.Encourage academic institutions and businesses to collaborate to support entrepreneurs and joint business initiatives; 3.Promote energy infrastructure coordination through vocational-level education, internships, and exchanges; 4. Require the State Department to assess the feasibility of facilitating partnerships between universities and medical and nursing programs in both countries. Read the bill texts of the United States-Mexico Economic Partnership Act here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://algreen.house.gov/press-release/congressman-al-green-votes-yes-hr-133,Congressman Al Green Votes Yes on H.R. 133,2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,TX,Al Green,G000553,algreen.house.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, D.C.) On Monday, December 21, 2020, Congressman Al Green released the following statement on the passage of H.R. 133: Similar to my legislation H.R. 6868, to establish a Community Capital Investment Program, H.R. 133 includes $9 billion to fund an Emergency Capital Investment Program (ECIP) administered by the Department of the Treasury. Funds may be used: (1) to provide direct and indirect capital investment in minority depository institutions (MDIs) as well as community development financial institutions (CDFIs); and (2) by eligible financial institutions to provide loans, grants, and forbearance to small businesses, minority-owned businesses, and consumers, particularly in low- and moderate-income (LMI) areas and underserved communities that may be disproportionately impacted by the pandemic's economic effects, stated Congressman Al Green after voting YES' to H.R. 133, the relief package and omnibus passed by Congress. Repayment will be deferred for at least five years, and participants must maintain or significantly expand lending or investment activity to LMI minority communities. Congressman Green, who has been a strong proponent of MDIs and CDFIs for their work in often underbanked LMI communities, added, I am enormously thankful for the inclusion of this language, and I wish to thank Financial Services Chairwoman Maxine Waters for her steadfast support of these vital institutions that serve so many communities that large banks would leave behind. It is because of Chair Waters' advocacy and the dedication of the Committee staff that this critical program has been incorporated into this final legislative package of 2020. H.R. 133 provides a second round of direct economic relief payments, expanded unemployment insurance, $325 billion in small business assistance, $25 billion in rental assistance, a federal eviction moratorium, $13 billion in nutrition assistance, as well as paid sick leave for workers infected with coronavirus or impacted by school closures due to coronavirus. Congressman Green concluded, saying, While I am aware that this combined COVID-relief/omnibus package does not do nearly enough to eliminate the suffering that our nation is experiencing during this unprecedented crisis, I do believe this is a good faith effort to help remove some of the pain.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://doggett.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/so-much-virus-need-relief-package-too-little-too-late,"With So Much Virus & Need, Relief Package is Too Little, Too Late",2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,TX,Lloyd Doggett,D000399,doggett.house.gov,,,legacy,"***For Immediate Release*** FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 21, 2020 Contact:Kate Stotesbery 202-494-4620 With So Much Virus & Need, Relief Package is Too Little, Too Late Washington, D.C. U.S. Representative Lloyd Doggett (D-TX), Chairman of the House Ways & Means Health Subcommittee, released this statement on the upcoming House vote today on the COVID relief package and government funding: With so much virus and so much need, this 5,593-page, complex bill really is too little, too late! Modest help for many who are struggling, important funding for vaccine distribution, but some sorry provisions and many omissions. This results not from a failure by Congress,' but specifically from a prolonged refusal by Republicans in Congress to negotiate and their rejection of the amount and types of assistance necessary to meet growing needs.Hopefully, we at least are providing the limited assistance required by those most in need to make it until we have a new, humane Administration. ### Follow Congressman Doggett Facebook:https://www.Facebook.com/RepLloydDoggett | Twitter: @RepLloydDoggett| Instagram: @RepLloydDoggett",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=405981,Rep. Cuellars Statement on Coronavirus Relief and Omnibus Agreement,2020-12-20,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,TX,Henry Cuellar,C001063,cuellar.house.gov,,,legacy,"Rep. Cuellar's Statement on Coronavirus Relief and Omnibus Agreement Congressman will vote on Monday to save the lives and livelihoods of the American people Washington, D.C.Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) released the following statement after Congress reached an agreement on coronavirus relief and omnibus package: It is my top priority to ensure that American families and communities are safe, healthy and financially secure as we continue to battle this pandemic, said Congressman Cuellar. I will be voting for this package tomorrow so we can get working families, small businesses and front line workers the relief they desperately need. The cost of inaction is far too high. This bipartisan legislation takes bold, far-reaching steps that the coronavirus crisis demands and that the American people deserve. As a senior member of the Appropriations Committee, I will continue to provide support and fund the necessary resources to working families in my district, my state, and across the nation as we address this public health and economic crisis. Accelerating vaccine distribution and crushing the coronavirus: The package provides billions in urgently need funds to accelerate the free and equitable distribution of safe vaccines to as many Americans as possible as soon as possible, to implement a strong national testing and tracing strategy with billions reserved specifically for combating the disparities facing certain communities, and to support our heroic health care workers and providers. Ends surprise billing: The package includes bipartisan, bicameral legislation that will end surprise billing for emergency and scheduled care. Strong support for small business: The agreement includes over $284 billion for first and second forgivable PPP loans, expanded PPP eligibility for nonprofits and local newspapers, TV and radio broadcasters, key modifications to PPP to serve the smallest businesses and struggling non-profits and better assist independent restaurants,and includes $15 billion in dedicated funding for live venues, independent movie theaters, and cultural institutions. The agreement also includes $20 billion for targeted EIDL Grants which are critical to many smaller businesses on Main Street. Community Development Financial Institutions and Minority Depository Institutions: The agreement includes dedicated PPP set-asides for very small businesses and lending through community-based lenders like Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) and Minority Depository Institutions (MDIs); $9 billion in emergency U.S. Treasury capital investments in CDFIs and MDIs to support lending in low-income and underserved communities, including persistent poverty counties, that may be disproportionately impacted by the economic effects of the COVID19 pandemic; and $3 billion in emergency support for CDFIs through the CDFI Fund to respond to the economic impact of the pandemic on underserved low-income and minority communities. Rental assistance: $25 billion in critically needed rental assistance for families struggling to stay in their homes and an extension of the eviction moratorium. Strengthens the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit: The package enhances the LIHTC to help increase affordable housing construction and provide greater certainty to new and ongoing affordable housing projects. Direct payment checks: A new round of direct payments worth up to $600 per adult and child, also ensuring that mixed-status families receive payments. Strengthened Earned Income Tax Credit & Child Tax Credit: The agreement helps ensure that families who faced unemployment or reduced wages during the pandemic are able to receive a strong tax credit based on their 2019 income, preserving these vital income supports for vulnerable families. Supports paid sick leave: The agreement provides a tax credit to support employers offering paid sick leave, based on the Families First framework. Employee Retention Tax Credit: The agreement extends and improves the Employee Retention Tax Credit to help keep workers in the jobs during coronavirus closures or reduced revenue. Enhanced Unemployment Insurance benefits: Averts the sudden expiration of Unemployment Insurance benefits for millions and added a $300 per week UI enhancement for Americans out of work. Nutrition assistance for hungry families: $13 billion in increased SNAP and child nutrition benefits to help relieve the historic hunger crisis that has left up to 17 million children food insecure. Education and childcare: The agreement provides $82 billion in funding for colleges and schools, including support for HVAC repair and replacement to mitigate virus transmission and reopen classrooms, and $10 billion for child care assistance to help get parents back to work and keep child care providers open. Historic expansion of Pell Grants: The package includes the largest expansion of Pell Grant recipients in over a decade, reaching 500,000 new recipients and ensuring more than 1.5 million students will now receive the maximum benefit. Broadband access: The agreement invests $7 billion to increase access to broadband, including a new Emergency Broadband Benefit to help millions of students, families and unemployed workers afford the broadband they need during the pandemic. Fights the climate crisis: The agreement includes sweeping clean energy reforms, R&D enhancements, efficiency incentives, and extends clean energy tax credits to create hundreds of thousands of jobs across the clean economy. The package also phases out superpollutant HFCs, positioning the U.S. to lead the world in avoiding up to 0.5 degree Celsius of global warming.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=405974,Rep. Cuellars Statement on Decision to Restrict Public Attendance to Presidential Inaugural Ceremony,2020-12-18,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,TX,Henry Cuellar,C001063,cuellar.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) issued the following statement regarding the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies (JCCIC) decision to restrict broad public attendance at the upcoming Presidential Inauguration Ceremony: My office has received many ticket requests from constituents throughout the district for the upcoming Presidential Inaugural Ceremony. I deeply appreciate the patience that has been shown to us as my office awaited more information from the inaugural committee. However, it has been confirmed that the upcoming inauguration will not include a broad public audience due to the ongoing pandemic. On January 20th, our nation as well as the world will witness an innovative and reimagined historic event as President-elect Biden and Vice President-elect Harris are sworn-in to office; all while ensuring the health and safety of Americans. This was a decision made by the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies in close consultation with public health, medical experts, and the Presidential Inaugural Committee. I applaud the decision to put Americans' safety first, and while I always look forward to having guests for inaugurations, we must be proactive in protecting the health of our community. To all those who have reached out to my office, I apologize for this inconvenience. Thank you again for your patience and may God bless the United States of America.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=405973,Rep. Cuellar Announces Vaccine Distribution to Local Hospitals in Laredo,2020-12-17,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,TX,Henry Cuellar,C001063,cuellar.house.gov,,,legacy,"Laredo, TXCongressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) released the following statement regarding the distribution of COVID-19 vaccines of Laredo Medical Center and STAT Specialty Hospital: It is great to see the first doses of the Pfizer vaccine arrive to Laredo Medical Center and STAT Specialty Hospital today. By the end of the year, Texas is expected to receive 1.4 million doses of the Pfizer vaccine. An effective COVID-19 vaccine was rapidly developed due to the tireless efforts of our researchers and scientists, as well as billions in federal funding. As a senior member of the Appropriations Committee, I worked hard to secure almost $10 billion in federal resources, which have been invested in these efforts, including funding from the CARES Act. However, it is critical that Congress pass a subsequent COVID-19 relief package to provide additional funding for vaccine distribution, before the close of the year.This will ensure that the treatment is safely and rapidly transported to all communities in the United States. This past year has been difficult for all Americans, but I promise you this: we will prevail. Today marks a turning point in our nation's battle against this virus. I want to thank all of our health care workers who have been working since day 1 to protect our communities and slow the spread of the virus. In the photo: COVID-19 vaccines at Laredo Medical Center.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://algreen.house.gov/press-release/congressman-al-green-speaks-house-human-rights-commission-calls-endsars-resolution-be,"Congressman Al Green Speaks Before House Human Rights Commission, Calls for #EndSARS Resolution to Be Brought to Floor for Vote",2020-12-17,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,TX,Al Green,G000553,algreen.house.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, D.C.) On Thursday, December 17, 2020, Congressman Al Green released the following statement calling for H.Res. 1216 to be brought to the House Floor for a vote: I must thank Congressman McGovern, Chairman of the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission, for inviting me to speak before the Commission regarding my resolution, H.Res. 1216. Introduced by myself and Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20) five weeks ago, this resolution supports the #EndSARS peaceful protest movement in Nigeria and condemns the violent crackdown on peaceful protesters by Nigeria's security forces, expressed Congressman Al Green. Today, as I speak before the Human Rights Commission, I am reiterating that condemnation. Because H.Res 1216 concerns life and death issues, I will call for this resolution to be brought to the floor of the House of Representatives for a vote. Congressman Al Green continued, By passing H.Res. 1216, our nation will send a powerful message to the world, and especially to the people of Nigeria, that our voices will not be muted when such gross violations of human rights are taking place. According to Nigerian, African, and international law, Nigerians have a right to assemble and peacefully protest. Black lives matter wherever they may be in the world, and it is up to all of us to stand in solidarity with these peaceful protesters so they can safely exercise this right. Congressman Joaquin Castro, Vice Chair of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, added, Congress should immediately pass this resolution and send a powerful message to the people of Nigeria that we stand in solidarity. Both here in the United States and around the world, we must work toward ending police brutality.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://gonzalez.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-gonzalez-announces-biden-presidential-inauguration-ceremony-be-held,Congressman Gonzalez Announces Biden Presidential Inauguration Ceremony to Be Held in Accordance with CDC Guidelines,2020-12-17,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,TX,Vicente Gonzalez,G000581,gonzalez.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Today, Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) announced to constituentsthat in accordance with Centers for Disease Control and Protection (CDC) guidelines and the advice of medical experts, there will be no large gatherings or public ticketing for the 59thInaugurationof President-elect Joe Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris. Congressman Gonzalez encourages constituents of the 15th District of Texas not to travel to Washington, D.C.,and instead commemorate this event virtually. Safety is the top priority, said Congressman Gonzalez. This year's ceremonies and events will be different, but it reflects President-elect Biden and Vice President-elect Harris' commitment to address this pandemic and help our economy recover. I look forward to hearing President-elect Biden share his vision for America's future in what will a be a historicinaugurationand much-needed breathe of fresh air. This will be a historic event that brings Americans from all walks of life together and honors inaugural traditions Americans have always known -- an official outdoor swearing-in ceremony, iconic images of President-elect and Vice President-elect, virtual celebrations that bring the country together, a reimagined parade, and socially distanced community service events. The residents of the 15th District of Texas should plan to participate in new and innovative ways. It is expected to an exciting event that showcases the strength and diversity of our nation and that every American can enjoy from their home. There will be more details and information about how to participate in the coming weeks. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://gonzalez.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-gonzalez-statement-members-carrying-firearms-capitol-grounds,Congressman Gonzalez Statement on Members Carrying Firearms on Capitol Grounds,2020-12-17,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,TX,Vicente Gonzalez,G000581,gonzalez.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Today, Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) issued a statement on Members of Congress carrying firearms on Capitol Grounds: ""TheCapitol Police and House and Senate Sergeant-at-Arms do an outstanding job keeping allMembers, staff, and visitors from around the country and the world safe. I trust and respect their decisions allowing Members of Congress who choose to carry firearms on the Capitol Grounds. There is a clear history of Members of Congress being targeted with violence. And if we want to carry for an added layer of protection, we should be able to do so.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=405971,Rep. Cuellar Expresses Concern on Mexicos Legislation Curtailing Joint Security Coordination,2020-12-16,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,TX,Henry Cuellar,C001063,cuellar.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) released the following statement regarding his concerns on legislation that was quickly passed in Mexican Congress, while the United States was in the middle of a transition, that would put tough restrictions on foreign agents operating in the country, including those fighting violent transnational organizations: I respect Mexico's sovereignty in passing their own legislation. However, after speaking with U.S. law enforcement and Mexican officials, I am concerned this legislation would threaten the security of our nations as well as put U.S. law enforcement officials at danger. The implementation and interpretation of the bill is vital. The United States and Mexico have developed an extraordinary level of collaboration and coordination when addressing criminal and terrorist threats. This bill jeopardizes this partnership and therefore, public safety, said Congressman Cuellar. As the Chairman of the U.S.-Mexico IPG and Vice Chair of the Homeland Security Subcommittee on Appropriations, I have worked closely with our southern neighbor to create bilateral law enforcement policies that safeguard both our nations. This undermines our efforts.We should focus on our long-term partnership, instead of short-term tensions, and continue to work together to address our current security threats. The National Security Law includes the following limitations/ burdens on United States officials: Foreign agents may only carry out intelligence exchange liaison activities with Mexican authorities in terms of the provisions in the accreditation that would've been issued to such agent; Foreign agents may not engage in activities reserved for Mexican authorities; Foreign agents must refrain from carrying out direct operations before any authority other than the Secretariat of Foreign Affairs or relevant agencies in accordance with international cooperation conventions entered into by the Mexican State regarding security and contributing to the preservation of National Security; Foreign agents must communicate to Mexican authorities, through the Secretariat of Foreign Affairs, any intelligence they may come across while performing their duties, through the Secretariat of Foreign Affairs; Foreign agents must submit before the secretariats of Foreign Affairs and Security and Civil Protection a monthly report regarding matters related to the bilateral cooperation conventions entered into by the Mexican State regarding security and contributing to the preservation of National Security; Foreign agents may not carry out or induce anyone else to carry out arrests, actions involving deprivation of liberty, enter private property or any other act that may violate the Political Constitution of the United States of Mexico and applicable national laws; Foreign agents must refrain from carrying out activities that may compromise their physical integrity. Consequently, they shall be subject to criteria determined by the Secretariat of Security and Civil Protection, and Foreign agents may only carry firearms authorized by the Secretariat of National Defense.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://gonzalez.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-gonzalez-s-missing-persons-and-unidentified-remains-act-passes,Congressman Gonzalezs Missing Persons and Unidentified Remains Act Passes House,2020-12-16,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,TX,Vicente Gonzalez,G000581,gonzalez.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Today,S.2174, the Missing Persons and Unidentified Remains Actpassed the U.S. House of Representativesby voice vote.This bill was introduced in the House byCongressmen Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) and Will Hurd (TX-23) as a companion bill toSenator John Cornyn (R-TX) and Vice President-Elect Senator Kamala Harris (D-CA)'slegislation that passed the U.S. Senate.Themeasurewill now go to the President to be signed into law. This bipartisan and bicameral legislationwillenhancelocal jurisdictions'ability to record and reportmissingpersons and unidentified remains foundin South Texasand elsewhere along the U.S.-Mexico border. Border communities are currently shouldering the costs of identifying and recovering the remains of migrants who tragically perish while migrating to the United States,said Congressman Gonzalez.This legislation will provide much needed aid for South Texas municipalities, sheriffs, farmers and ranchers to address this critical issue. The Missing Persons andUnidentifiedRemains Act is a necessary step forward, but a band aid on a much largerCentral Americanmigration problem that we must tackle. I want to thank my colleagues on both sides of the aisle for their effortsto passthis bill and a special thanks to all of thecounty judges,sheriffs, mayors, and advocates who pushed for this legislation. I will continue to work in a bipartisan way to see this bill signed by the President. Our communities along the border experience unfortunate consequences that reflect the perilous journey north from Central American countries,saidHurd, who represents more of the U.S.-Mexico border than any other Member of Congress.The Missing Persons and Unidentified Remains Actwill not only provide additional resources to Customs and Border Protection for rescue efforts, but also reduce the burdens placed on state and local governments to identify perished individuals. Rep. Gonzalez and Sen. Cornyn have been great partners in providing a solution for this very real challenge faced by many communities across my district, and I am proud of our bipartisan work that will give families the peace of mind they deserve. I urge the president to sign this bill into law swiftly. S. 2174is endorsed bythe Southern Border Communities Coalition, the South Texans' Property Rights Association, the Texas Border Coalition, the National Criminal Justice Association, the Consortium of Forensic Science Organizations (including the American Academy of Forensic Sciences, the American Academy of Psychiatry and the Law, the American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors, the International Association for Identification, the National Association of Medical Examiners, the Society of Forensic Toxicologists and American Board of Forensic Toxicology), the National Immigration Forum, the Colibri Center for Human Rights and the CaliforniaLeague of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC). TheMissing Persons and Unidentified Remains Actwill: Expand eligibility for grants to allow applications from State and local governments; accredited government-funded Combined DNA Index System (CODIS) forensic laboratories; medical examiners; accredited publicly-funded toxicology, crime, and university forensic anthropology center laboratories; and nonprofit organizations who have collaborative agreements with State and county forensic offices for entry of data into CODIS or NationalMissingand Unidentified Persons Systems (NamUS). Require reporting to the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) and NamUS regardingmissing persons and deceased individuals found in each applicant's jurisdiction. Add privacy protections for biological family reference samples that will be uploaded into CODIS by precluding disclosure of such information to Federal or state law enforcement agency's for criminal law enforcement purposes. Authorize the use of grant funds to cover costs for the: transportation, processing, identification, and reporting ofmissingpersons and unidentified remains; hiring of additional DNA case analysts and technicians, fingerprint examiners, and forensic odonatologists and anthropologists needed to support identification; and purchase of state-of-the-art forensic and DNA-typing and analytical equipment. Expand U.S. Customs and Border Protection's (CBP) legal authorities to allow for the purchase of additional self-powering 9-1-1- cellular relay rescue beacons to mitigate deaths in places where CBP determines are appropriate. Add reporting requirements for the NamUS Program regarding the number of unidentified person cases, anthropology cases, suspected border crossing cases and associations made. Add reporting requirements for CBP and the Government Accountability Office (GAO) on unidentified remains and use of rescue beacons. Congressmen Gonzalez and Hurd originallyintroduced this billin the 115th Congress.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=405970,Rep. Cuellars Statement on FDAs Emergency Use Authorization of First Coronavirus Vaccine,2020-12-12,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,TX,Henry Cuellar,C001063,cuellar.house.gov,,,legacy,"Rep. Cuellar's Statement on FDA's Emergency Use Authorization of First Coronavirus Vaccine Washington, D.C. Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) released the following statement regarding the FDA's first emergency use authorization for a coronavirus vaccine in the United States: This incredible and hopeful news is due to our nation's scientists, researchers, and doctors who produced an effective vaccine in record time. Now, it is critical that we ensure distribution of vaccines is rapid, fair and equitable. I am committed to fighting for our vulnerable communities, including Hispanic populations, that have been hardest hit by the COVID-19 pandemic. As a nation, we must continue to practice health guidelines- wearing a mask, social distancing, & staying home- so we can save thousands of lives while we wait for distribution.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=405962,Rep. Cuellar Secures Over $51.9 million in Authorization Funding for the Chacon Creek Restoration Project,2020-12-11,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,TX,Henry Cuellar,C001063,cuellar.house.gov,,,legacy,"Laredo, TXCongressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) secured $51,973,000 in authorization funding for the Chacon Creek Restoration Project in the Water Resources Development Act of 2020. The Chacon Creek Restoration Project will focus on flood management, ecosystem restoration and recreational amenities, from Lake Casa Blanca, through Laredo, to the Rio Grande. This legislation passed the House and Senate and will now head to the President's desk for his signature. Green spaces are an integral part of a happy, healthy city, said Congressman Cuellar. That's why for the last 16 years, I have been working hard to secure full authorized funding of Chacon Creek Restoration Project. This project will help our community better withstand flooding as well as create new recreational and educational parklands, including biking and hiking trails, that our community will enjoy for future generations. As a senior member of the Appropriations Committee, I will continue to ensure we receive the necessary funds to complete this important project so we can build a space that will create jobs, stimulate the economy and improve the quality of life for our community. I want to thank the City of Laredo, including Mayor Pete Saenz, City Manager Robert Eads, Assistant Manager Riazul Mia, Director of Environmental Services John Porter and City Council, for their efforts in highlighting the project's importance for our community The Chacon Creek Restoration Project The Chacon Creek Restoration Project consists of two components: flood risk management and ecosystem restoration. The flood risk management component will consist of the permanent evacuation of 73 residential structures along Chacon Creek.Upon completion of the proposed improvements, 250 homes will be elevated from the flood plain. The additional vacated flood risk management lands will be used for recreational amenities. The ecosystem restoration component will include 16.75 acres of wetland restoration and 401 acres of riparian restoration; this will accentuate green spaces and preserve the creek's natural course and minimize impact on wildlife and wetlands. Securing Millions for Chacon Creek In the 2021 House Appropriations Committee passed spending bill, Congressman Cuellar helped secure $2.62 billion for the Army Corps of Engineers Construction account, which will contribute federal funding to projects like Chacon Creek. In 2006, Congressman Cuellar delivered $3.3 million directly to the Chacon Creek Hike and Bike Trail project, a component of the overall project plan. To see Congressman Cuellar speak on the House Floor in support of the funding for the Chacon Creek Restoration Project, click here. To read Congressman Cuellar's language in the Water Resources Development Act of 2020, click here. To see a map of the proposed Chacon Creek Restoration Project, click here.In the picture:Congressman Cuellar, City of Laredo Mayor Pete Saenz, Assistant City Manager Riazul Mia, City of Laredo Director of Environmental Services John Porter and RGISC Board President Melissa Cigarroa.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://gonzalez.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-gonzalez-calls-congressional-leadership-include-stimulus-payments,Congressman Gonzalez Calls on Congressional Leadership to Include Stimulus Payments in COVID-19 Relief Package,2020-12-11,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,TX,Vicente Gonzalez,G000581,gonzalez.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Today, Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) sent a letter to House and Senate leadership urging them to include stimulus payments in the next COVID-19 aid package. As it stands, Senator Majority Leader Mitch McConnell has signaled that he is not in favor of this proposal. The Congressman in the letter writes: As you continue to negotiate a coronavirus relief package, I write to you today on behalf of the constituents in the 15th District of Texas and urge you to include a direct stimulus payment for those suffering from the adverse effects of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Millions of Americans are without a job, others are struggling to pay their bills, put food on the table or buy prescription drugs. We owe it to them to come together and pass another round of Economic Impact Payments. In his letter, the Congressman cites startling statistics that Hidalgo County represents only 3% of the state of Texas, but accounts for approximately 10% of COVID-related deaths. Additionally, the entire Rio Grande Valley, comprised of Hidalgo, Cameron, Starr and Willacy counties, represents 4.75% of the state population and approximately 17% of COVID-related deaths in Texas. The Washington Post recently reported that nearly 12 million renters will owe an average of $5,850 in back rent and utilitiesby January. Last month, 9 million renters said they were behind on rent, according to a Census Bureausurvey. The letter is available here and below: December11, 2020 The Honorable Mitch McConnell Majority Leader United States Senate U.S. Capitol Building, Room S-230 Washington, DC 20510 The Honorable Chuck Schumer Minority Leader United States Senate U.S. Capitol Building, Room S-224 Washington, DC 20510 The Honorable Nancy Pelosi Speaker of the House United States House of Representatives U.S. Capitol Building Washington, DC 20515 The Honorable Kevin McCarthy Minority Leader United States House of Representatives U.S. Capitol Building Washington, DC 20515 Dear Speaker Pelosi, Minority Leader McCarthy, Majority Leader McConnell,andMinority Leader Schumer: As you continue to negotiate a coronavirus relief package, I write to you today on behalf of the constituents in the 15th District of Texas and urge you to include a direct stimulus payment for those suffering from the adverse effects of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Millions of Americans are without a job, others are struggling to pay their bills, put food on the table or buy prescription drugs. We owe it to them to come together and pass another round of Economic Impact Payments. The future of our country may depend on your choices in the coming days. There is no need for additional evidentiary support for the dire circumstances many Americans find themselves in. Hardworking Americans who were once gainfully employed now, through no fault of their own, are facing eviction, and have lost their sources of income due to the widespread effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. The 15th District of Texas is home to Americans, Republican and Democrat both, who need not suffer while we workto resolve ourpolicy differences. Let us not overlook thesefamilieswho are in need.Since April 2020, Hidalgo County, the southernmost county in the 15th Congressional District of Texas, has lost 2,030 residents to COVID-19. The population of Hidalgo County represents only 3% of the state of Texas, but accounts for approximately 10% of COVID-related deaths. The entire Rio Grande Valley, comprised of Hidalgo, Cameron, Starr and Willacy counties,represents 4.75% of the state population and approximately 17% of COVID-related deaths in Texas. Experts continue working to fully understand the factors that make South Texans so uniquely susceptible to the novel coronavirus. However, we can infer several factorsincluding:high rates of comorbidities, poverty, uninsured patients, and multigenerational housing. The Rio Grande Valley has increased rates of chronic illnesses known to increase the severity of a COVID-19 case such as diabetes, heart disease, and obesity. Unlike demographically similar regions such as San Antonio, Texas or El Paso, Texas, Rio Grande Valley residents are less likely to have health insurance; the uninsured rate in Texas is 17%, while the uninsured rate in the Rio Grande Valley is 32% - almost double the rate of the entire state. Additionally, South Texans also experience poverty at more than twice the rate of Texans, 30% as compared to 13% statewide. The district I represent iscomprised of a majority Hispanic population, one of the hardesthitby COVID-19 pandemic which has claimed hundreds of thousands of lives.Today, more than ever, Americaand its people need you.Please do the right thingand provide a directstimuluspayment to all who need one. /s/ ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=405960,Rep. Cuellar Leads Letter Calling for the End of National Emergency and Termination of Border Wall Contracts,2020-12-09,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,TX,Henry Cuellar,C001063,cuellar.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.-- Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) led a congressional letter to President-Elect Joseph R. Biden Jr., calling his administration to rescind the national emergency declaration and reprogrammed funding; direct the Department of Justice to dismiss all condemnation suits; terminate for convenience all current and pending Army Corps of Engineer contracts; and rescind Homeland Security waiver authority relating to the construction of new border barriers. Working with the Biden administration, Congressman Cuellar will restore effective border security policies, which does not include any wasteful border barrier, as well as prioritize saving American lives and jobs during this pandemic. We must remedy the challenges border communities have faced over the last four years due to the Trump administration's insistence on constructing a wasteful border wall, said Congressman Cuellar. At a time when we continue to face major public health and economic crises, we are calling for the President-Elect to immediately halt all border wall construction, return unconstitutionally reprogrammed military funding, and restore private property rights. Our number one priority at this time should be preventing the spread of COVID-19, saving lives, and supporting working families. Federal funding must be invested in strong border security, Congressman Cuellar continued. We cannot give the impression that we have an open border, which would overwhelm our nation's capacity for humanitarian aid.We must focus on modernizing land ports of entry and improving our security infrastructure; hiring additional U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers and support staff; bolstering U.S. Border Patrol equipment and technology; and coordinating these efforts with our neighbors to the south.As the Vice Chair of the Homeland Security Subcommittee on Appropriations, I am committed to working with the Biden Administration to fund programs that effectively secure the U.S.-Mexico border. The letter urges the incoming Administration to prioritize the following actions: 1) Rescind Proclamation 9844, President Trump's presidential proclamation declaring a national emergency along the southern border. This proclamation allowed the current administration to reprogram congressionally appropriated funds from Defense and Military Construction accounts for a border wall. 2) Direct the U.S. Department of Justice and the U.S. Attorney General to dismiss all ongoing condemnation litigation, and related civil proceedings against private and public landowners. The Trump administration has utilized eminent domain, which refers to the government's power to obtain property for a public use while compensating the property owner, for wall construction. As of July 2020, DHS acquired or is working to acquire 1,009 tracts in the Rio Grande Valley Sector or the Laredo Sector. 3) Terminate for convenience all current and pending U.S. Army Corps of Engineer (USACE) contracts involving the acquisition of private land for border wall construction along the southwest border. When creating procurement contracts, federal agencies will add clauses that grants them the right to terminate for convenience, or ending all or part of the work under a contract when it is in the Government's interest to do so. 4) Prohibit the use of U.S. Department of Homeland Security to waiver authority relating to the construction of new border barriers and join us in seeking its repeal. The current administration waived numerous major environmental laws, including National Environmental Policy Act, the Endangered Species Act, the Clean Water Act, and the Safe Drinking Water Act, to build a wall and fencing along the border with Mexico. Co-Signers (35): Reps. Henry Cuellar, Lucille Roybal-Allard, Ben Ray Lujn, Joaquin Castro, Ral Grijalva, Nydia M. Velzquez, Linda T. Snchez, James P. McGovern, Barbara Lee, Veronica Escobar, Emanuel Cleaver, II, Sylvia Garcia, Pete Aguilar, Ruben Gallego, Vicente Gonzalez, Juan Vargas, Tony Cardeas, Bonnie Watson Coleman, Peter Welch, Darren Soto, Adriano Espaillat, David Cicilline, Jimmy Panetta, J. Luis Correa, Eleanor Holmes Norton, Steve Cohen, Grace Meng, Debbie Wasserman Schultz, Jan Schakowsky, Dina Titus, Albio Sires, Norma J. Torres, Ann Kirkpatrick, Andr Carson, Danny K. Davis. Read Congressman Cuellar's letter to President-Elect Biden here. Watch Congressman Cuellar speak about the letter to President-Elect Biden here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://gonzalez.house.gov/media/press-releases/virtual-congressional-delegation-brings-together-us-and-mexican-businesses,Virtual Congressional Delegation Brings Together U.S. and Mexican Businesses,2020-12-09,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,TX,Vicente Gonzalez,G000581,gonzalez.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Today, Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) joined a first of its kind virtual bipartisan delegation, hosted by the Council of the Americas, that brought some 40 representatives of American and Mexican companies together to discuss trade and investment between the two countries. Congressman Gonzalez was joined by Congressmen Jodey Arrington and Rick Crawford. There are many challenges that Mexico and the United States must face together. The virtual delegation put together by the Council of Americas was an important medium to discuss the issues critical to South Texas and the Rio Grande Valley,said Congressman Gonzalez.Businesses on both side of the border depend on trade and tourism and are struggling as a result of the pandemic. It is vital to South Texas' and Mexico's economic interests that we continue to promote a business environment that is both safe and fair for workers and investors. I look forward to future discussions and improving the economic and diplomatic relationship between our two countries with the help of the incoming Biden administration. Eric Farnsworth, Vice President of the Council highlighted the innovative nature of the effort. We were pleased to host this virtual delegation to highlight the opportunities for trade and investment between Mexico and the United States. We are grateful for the leadership of Congressmen Crawford, Arrington and Gonzalez in paving the way for this type of virtual engagement, and plan to build on this success. I appreciate the efforts of the Council of the Americas to bring together my colleagues in Congress and representatives of the U.S. and Mexican business communities to discuss business and trade opportunities, especially as we continue to cope with the impact of COVID-19. Our two countries have a strong economic relationship, as exemplified by recent trade figures and the implementation of USMCA. It is important that we continue to explore ways to expand market access and supply chains that are mutually beneficial to our communities on both sides of the border, said Congressman Crawford. Congressman Arrington stated, The U.S.- Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) was one of the biggest accomplishments of the 116th Congress. This historic trade deal has been a major win for our farmers, ranchers, and energy producers who feed, fuel, and clothe the world. I look forward to my discussion with the CODEL participants and continuing to improve and grow our mutually beneficial trade relationship with Mexico. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=405954,Rep. Cuellar Votes for the National Defense Authorization Act,2020-12-08,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,TX,Henry Cuellar,C001063,cuellar.house.gov,,,legacy,"Rep. Cuellar Votes for the National Defense Authorization Act Bipartisan legislation supports our troops, reflects our values, and provides for a strong military Washington, D.C.Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) released the following statement on House passage of the William M. Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2021, a strong bill that ensures America is prepared to meet the military challenges of the 21st century. It is critical that every year we pass the NDAA to ensure our service members have the necessary resource to complete their missions at home and abroad, said Congressman Cuellar. That's why I voted for this bipartisan legislation, which makes historic investments to improve military readiness and strengthen alliances. This year's NDAA also honors our commitment to our men and women in uniform as well as their families by giving them the compensation they deserve. As a member of the Defense Subcommittee on Appropriations, I am committed to funding programs that keep Americans safe and give our troops the resources they need to succeed. Specifically, the NDAA includes: Providing A Pay Raise to the Troops: The conference report authorizes a 3.0 percent increase in basic pay for service members. Requiring Improvements in Military Housing: The conference report takes several steps to improve military housing, including updating minimum health and safety standards for all military base housing, repealing a provision that currently allows DOD to place families in substandard housing units, and requiring DOD to implement Comptroller General recommendations for improvement of military family housing. Requires the establishment of a comprehensive mentoring program and career development framework with measurable metric and outcomes to retain the best and brightest in the military and increase the diversity at senior ranks. Modification of Science, Mathematics, and Research for Transformation (SMART) Defense Education Program for Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs). Providing Long-Overdue Benefits to Vietnam-Era Veterans Exposed to Agent Orange: The bill provides long-overdue benefits to Vietnam-Era veterans exposed to Agent Orange, including adding Parkinsonism, bladder cancer, and hypothyroidism to the list of diseases associated with exposure to Agent Orange. Ensuring Paid Parental Leave Extended to All Federal Employees: The conference report makes technical corrections to the paid parental leave benefit provided through the FY 2020 National Defense Authorization Act to ensure that the Federal Aviation Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs, and certain other civilian federal employees inadvertently omitted from the legislation receive the parental leave benefit. Authorizing Hazardous Duty Pay for Service Members in Harm's Way: The conference report authorizes the Secretary of Defense to standardize payment of hazardous duty pay for the uniformed services, including the members of the Guard and National Reserve. It also increases Hazardous Duty Pay from $250 to $275 per month. Taking Steps to Further Protect Military Communities from PFAS. The conference report takes steps to further protect military communities from per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), including authorizing $1.4 billion for environmental remediation and BRAC accounts which support a range of remediation activities, to include those related to PFAS, at current military installations, formerly utilized defense sites, and installations closed by BRAC. Including the Elijah Cummings Federal Employee Anti-Discrimination Act: The conference report includes the Elijah Cummings Federal Employee Anti-Discrimination Act, passed ty the House in January 2019, which strengthens equal employment opportunity protections for federal employees and strengthens prohibitions against discrimination and retaliation against whistleblowers.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=405955,Rep. Cuellar Votes for ALS Disability Insurance Access Act,2020-12-08,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,TX,Henry Cuellar,C001063,cuellar.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) voted and helped pass the ALS Disability Insurance Access Act of 2019. This legislation will end the 5-month waiting period requirement for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits, allowing anyone diagnosed with ALS to access their benefits upon diagnosis. This bill passed the House and Senate and now goes to the President for his signature. It is crucial that ALS patients are approved for disability benefits and receive the treatment they need as soon as possible because of how quickly the disease tends to progress, said Congressman Cuellar. This bipartisan legislation will remove bureaucratic barriers and provide timely access to SSDI that they deserve. As a member of the ALS Caucus, I am committed to helping ALS patients and their families by funding research programs that help create new treatments and will eventually find a cure for this disease. ""ALS is among the most devastating health challenges we face. Thanks to Congressman Cuellar and the bipartisan efforts of the Congressional ALS Caucus, Americans with ALS will have more immediate access to critical disability benefits. ALS moves fast, robbing people of the ability to move, speak, swallow, and breathe. This bill allows us to keep pace with the demands of the illness. The next step will be outrunning ALS, as we discover better treatments and a cure together. This is true advocacy,"" said Valerie Estess,Co-Founder & Director of Research at Project ALS. ALS has impacted the lives of many in South Texas.Removing the 5 month waiting period for SSDI benefits will help families focus their attention on helping the person they care about adjust to the many challenges caused by living with ALS. Hopefully there will soon be a cure, but until then Henry's work in helping pass this bill will have real value for many, said Memo Trevino. Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, also known as ALS or Lou Gehrig's disease, is a neurodegenerative disease impacting the ability of the brain to control muscle movements. People with ALS progressively lose the ability to speak, walk, eat and breathe.There is no cure for ALS and it affects more than 5,000 people each year. The SSDI program pays a monthly benefit to qualifying individuals who are younger than the retirement age and have accrued a certain amount ofcreditsbased on their earnings and Social Security tax payments. Eligible recipients generally must wait five months before receiving payments. The intended purpose of a five-month waiting period for SSDI benefits is to allow temporary conditions to reverse. However, due to its progressive symptoms, some ALS patients lose their fight with the disease before ever receiving benefits. The bill would waive the waiting period for individuals with ALS, so that payments would begin the first full month that they have the disease. Watch a video of Congressman Cuellar speaking about the ALS Disability Insurance Access Act of 2019 here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://algreen.house.gov/press-release/congressman-al-green-applauds-passage-2021-ndaa,Congressman Al Green Applauds Passage of 2021 NDAA,2020-12-08,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,TX,Al Green,G000553,algreen.house.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, D.C.) On Tuesday, December 8, 2020, Congressman Al Green released the following statement applauding the passage of the 2021 NDAA: Today, I applaud the House's passage of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for FY2021, which funds many of our nation's military needs. I am pleased that this year's NDAA which passed by a 335-78-1 vote includes my amendment providing for a Government Accountability Office (GAO) study of the marketplace for cyber risk insurance, particularly as it impacts small businesses, said Congressman Al Green. This study, to be conducted by the Comptroller General, will assess and analyze the state and availability of insurance in the U.S. for cybersecurity risks. With so many stressors on small and minority businesses already, and the rise in cyber threats including crippling ransomware attacks striking businesses of all sizes, this study and the insights it will yield are imperative and timely. At its conclusion no later than 180 days past the enactment of the NDAA, the Comptroller General would submit the study's findings in a report to Congress with recommendations regarding appropriate federal intervention with respect to cybersecurity insurance. This critical information will enable legislators and policymakers to understand the scope and scale of the cybersecurity risks, as well as what insurance products are available to protect small business owners, their livelihoods, and those of their employees. Congressman Al Green added, I thank my colleagues Congressman John Katko (R-NY), Congressman Jim Langevin (D-RI), and Congressman Mike Gallagher (R-WI) for their bipartisan support of this amendment. Each year, the NDAA is one of the most important pieces of legislation Congress must pass to maintain national security and support our nation's servicemembers. I am proud to have worked with my colleagues to improve and pass the FY 2021 NDAA. I look forward to its enactment.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://gonzalez.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-gonzalez-statement-fort-hood-independent-review,Congressman Gonzalez Statement on the Fort Hood Independent Review,2020-12-08,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,TX,Vicente Gonzalez,G000581,gonzalez.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Today, Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) issued the following the statement regarding the independent review conducted by the Army after the tragic deaths of Spc. Vanessa Guillnand Sgt. Elder Fernandes at the Fort Hood military base in Texas. Fort Hood was found to have multiplesoldier disappearances, homicides, sexual assaults and deaths at Fort Hood over the past few years. Actions, or should I say, inactions have consequences.Army Secretary Ryan McCarthy's decision to relieve 14 officers of their command is necessary and marks the beginning of a long overdue reformation of the culture of our Armed Forces. The high rate of murders, sexual assault and harassment at this military installation, or any military base for that matter, is disturbing and unacceptable. Army leadership failed at every level and a complete overhaul is needed. I will continue to push for the passage of theI am Vanessa Guilln Actto codify the much-needed changes and oversight in our military service. I look forward to reviewing the rest of the independent investigations findings. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://gonzalez.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-gonzalez-statement-nomination-ag-becerra-lead-hhs,Congressman Gonzalez Statement on Nomination of AG Becerra to Lead HHS,2020-12-07,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,TX,Vicente Gonzalez,G000581,gonzalez.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Today, Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) issued the following statement regarding the appointment of California Attorney GeneralXavierBecerra to lead incoming President Joe Biden's Health and Human Services (HHS)Department. There is no one I would want more to take the helm of HHS thanXavierBecerra. I applaud PresidentElectBiden and the transition team on appointing the first Latino tothisrole. He will be a Health Secretary who understands the disproportionate impact that this virus has had on minority communities. I amconfident thatXavierwill do everything in his power to improve health outcomes forevery Americanandmarshal resources for underserved communities. It is my hope that the PresidentElectwill continue to select individuals from minority andHispanicbackgrounds to make the Biden cabinet diverse and representative of the America we know today. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://doggett.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/san-marcos-daily-record-open-enrollment-soon-close-don-t-wait-get-covered,San Marcos Daily Record: Open Enrollment Soon To Close: Dont Wait To Get Covered Today,2020-12-06,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,TX,Lloyd Doggett,D000399,doggett.house.gov,,,legacy,"With the virus surging, now is especially not the time to be without health insurance. Open Enrollment is the short period during which you can enroll in health insurance, choose your plan, or switch to a better plan. Open Enrollment is underway right now, but you have only until Dec. 15 to sign up. Make the top priority on your holiday shopping list buying yourself and your loved ones health security. A decade ago, the House committee in Washington on which I serve approved the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Since then, so many have done so much to try to deny Central Texas families access to affordable health insurance and strip away protections. This heartbreaking pandemic has made insurance all the more critical and yet, at the same time, so many have lost health insurance when they lost their jobs. This open enrollment season, we can help our families and our neighbors move forward and get protected. Though it is being challenged before the U.S. Supreme Court, the Affordable Care Act and its protection for pre-existing conditions remains the law of the land. It continues to represent the best path for so many to obtain the security of health insurance and access to a family physician security from the daily possibility of a serious accident or illness, whether COVID-related or not. Any Supreme Court ruling will not affect coverage you obtained for the coming year. Nothing about what is happening in Washington will deny your right to get covered. You still have the right to choose the health insurance that is best for you and your family, and to enroll for 2021. But it is up to you to exercise your right. With the commitment of local resources through Ascension and the St. David's Foundation, Foundation Communities offers free, objective assistance in matching your family's healthcare needs with alternative insurance policies. You can get aid in enrolling over the phone or set up a video or phone appointment at 737-717-4000. You can find assistance online athttps://foundcom.org/prosper-centers/health-coverage/ and localhelp.healthcare.gov. Foundation Communities helps you to research plans, networks, and formularies to make it easier to figure out what plan best meets your needs. Last year, 97% of those who came in for help qualified for federal assistance. They found comprehensive insurance with premiums averaging $126 a month. Even if you have a plan already, you may have better options in 2021 with over 70 plans to choose from. It is still worth a call to safely compare your choices. Selecting a plan is not just about finding the cheapest option. Take time to compare network directories and make sure your doctors and hospital are covered. Too many people are hit by big surprise medical bills because their doctor was not included in their insurance network. I authored legislation to shield consumers from this. In the meantime, you can take preventative steps, like ensuring your plan includes your preferred doctors and has affordable coverage for the care you need. Junk, short-term plans have been promoted as an alternative to comprehensive coverage from the virtual insurance marketplace. These misleading plans usually do not provide essential coverage like maternity care, mental healthcare or substance abuse treatment, or prescription drugs. They can also deny coverage or charge higher prices to people with pre-existing conditions like diabetes, cancer, or even survivors and victims of domestic abuse. Junk insurance is more widely available now, but it's just that: junk. Don't let politics in Washington keep you from getting covered in Texas. Your family can say no to those who would take away your rights and yes to protection. Safeguard your family from piles of medical bills after an unexpected healthcare need, like a car accident or a prolonged hospital stay while battling COVID-19. I continue working to improve the Affordable Care Act, to make it both more affordable and more accessible. But, for most Texans, it already offers significant protection. During open enrollment through December 15, make full use of it. Especially in these hard times, I welcome your good counsel on expanding access to health care, lowering prescription drug prices, ensuring COVID-19 vaccines and treatments are affordable and accessible to all and on all federal issues, from the COVID-19 relief and unemployment assistance I am fighting for to any other issue that is on your mind. You can write me at Lloyd.doggett@mail.house.govorhttps://doggett.house.gov/survey and can get the latest updates athttps://doggett.house.gov/contact/subscribe. U.S. Representative Lloyd Doggett (D-TX) represents Texas's 35th District in the House of Representatives, including much of San Marcos. He chairs the House Ways and Means Health Subcommittee.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://algreen.house.gov/press-release/congressman-al-green-takes-helm-chair-texas%E2%80%99-democratic-congressional-delegation,Congressman Al Green Takes Helm as Chair of Texas Democratic Congressional Delegation,2020-12-04,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,TX,Al Green,G000553,algreen.house.gov,,,legacy,"(Houston, TX) On Friday, December 4, 2020, Congressman Al Green (TX-09) released the following statement announcing his chairmanship of Texas' Democratic Congressional Delegation for the 117th Congress: As the incoming Chair of the Texas Congressional Delegation, I look forward to serving alongside my colleagues as we collectively commit to serving all Texans. I thank outgoing Chair, Congressman Joaquin Castro, who contributed valuable, insightful leadership over this tumultuous year. I thank him and the full delegation for their support of my taking up the mantle for the 117th Congress, Houston-area Congressman Al Green stated. As we prepare for the next session of Congress, there are several key issue areas including infrastructure, judicial appointments, and regional taskforces I look forward to focusing on for our state. I am eager to collaborate with my colleagues and work to ensure that democracy as well as the core ideals of our republic are prioritized for Texas and for America. Members of the Texas Democratic Congressional Delegation provided the following comments regarding the announcement of Congressman Green's chairmanship. Outgoing Chair of the Delegation, Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20): Congressman Green is a longstanding champion for the people of Houston, and I'm confident he will be a great chairman of the Texas Democratic Congressional Delegation. I look forward to working together in the 117th Congress and continuing to advance meaningful progress. Dean of the Texas Delegation, Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson (TX-30): Texas is a proud state blessed with a growing, diverse population and constituency with different expectations from Members who represent them in Congress. Congressman Al Green's newly appointed role by his colleagues as the Texas House Democratic Congressional Chairmanship comes at a critical juncture in history of our State and the Nation. Congressman Green brings an enormous intellectual capacity, institutional knowledge of Congress, and strong leadership qualities to his capacity as the Chair for the Texas House Democratic Congressional delegation. I know he will be an effective Chair for all of us. Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28): I first met Congressman Al Green in 2005 when we were in New Member Orientation. Since then, I have been inspired by his kindness towards others, his passion to help vulnerable communities and his conviction to improve the quality of life for people in his district and across the country. As Chairman of the Texas Democratic Congressional Delegation, Congressman Green will be a great leader in the for a better, more equitable, brighter future for every Texan. I look forward to working with him in this endeavor in the 117th Congress. Congressman Marc Veasey (TX-33): The announcement that Rep. Green will lead our Texas Democratic Congressional Delegation for the 117th Congress is welcome news, said Congressman Marc Veasey (TX-33). Rep. Green's record speaks for itself. He is a fighter for working families across Texas and has used his time to Congress to help all Texans access fair and just opportunities. As we head into redistricting, we need someone like Rep. Green to lead us because I know he will help unify our diverse delegation to ensure that we can keep delivering extraordinary progress for the people of our great state. Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15): These past four years Congressman Green has been a loud and strong voice for the Lone Star State. As we head into the next session of Congress, I have no doubt he will continue to be a fierce advocate and a good steward for Texans as chair of the Texas Democratic Congressional Delegation. I look forward to working with him to deliver for the people of Texas. Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia (TX-29): Representative Al Green is a friend, a valued leader, and a fighter for working people in the Houston region and across the state of Texas. As members of the House Financial Services Committee, we have worked closely on behalf of our constituents and those hit hardest by the pandemic. I cannot wait to see what our Texas delegation will accomplish in the 117th Congress under Rep. Green's leadership. Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher (TX-07): I'm glad that Congressman Green will serve as chairman of the Texas Democratic Congressional Delegation. He has demonstrated the leadership necessary to make our delegation more cohesive and effective in the 117th Congress. Congressman Green's lifetime commitment and dedication to public service are valuable assets as we work together to improve the lives of people across the great state of Texas.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://gonzalez.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-gonzalez-encourages-15th-district-residents-participate-operation,Congressman Gonzalez Encourages 15th District Residents to Participate in Operation Santa,2020-12-04,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,TX,Vicente Gonzalez,G000581,gonzalez.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON - Today, Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) is encouraging those in the 15th District of Texas to participate intheUnited StatesPostal Service (USPS)'s OperationSanta.OperationSantais a USPS programthatallows children to send their Christmas list toSantaso they have a possibility for their wishes to come true.OperationSantaiscelebrating its 108thyear and for the first time the program will be accepting letters from cities from across the country. Individuals will have the opportunity to adopt a child based on their letter and purchase gifts for those who are less fortunate. Some children ask for toys, basic necessities, and other items, but all are overjoyed on Christmas morning when they see presents under the Christmas tree. Last year, Congressman Gonzalez was successful in incorporating McAllen inOperationSantafor the first time. Every child who celebrates Christmas dreams of waking up on Christmas morning to gifts fromSanta, said Congressman Gonzalez. Unfortunately there are those, especially because of the recent pandemic, that may not be in a position to give their children the Christmas they want because of their financial circumstances. I would encourage those who need help to have their child participate and for those who can help to adopt a child this holiday season. If you would like your child to send a letter to the North Pole, the address is below. Unfortunately, not all letters will be answered. If you are interested in adopting a letter, visitUSPSOperationSanta.comstarting Friday, December 4. More information onOperationSantais available here. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://algreen.house.gov/press-release/house-passes-bipartisan-resolution-expressing-concern-over-detention-austin-tice-and,House Passes Bipartisan Resolution Expressing Concern over the Detention of Austin Tice and Majd Kamalmaz in Syria,2020-12-03,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,TX,Al Green,G000553,algreen.house.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, D.C.) On Thursday, December 3, 2020, Congressman Al Green released the following statement announcing the passage of H.Res. 17, expressing concern over the detention of Austin Tice and Majd Kamalmaz: Eight years ago, in concert with Marc and Debra Tice, I embarked on a mission of mercy to bring their son, Austin Tice, home. Austin, a veteran Marine Corps Captain who served in Iraq and Afghanistan, was detained at a checkpoint near Damascus, Syria, on August 14, 2012 while working in the country as a freelance journalist, Congressman Al Green stated. Austin is an Eagle Scout, college grad, law student, and award-winning journalist. He's the eldest of seven children. He is an American, and it is our nation's duty to ensure his safe return. Congressman Green continued, The valiant effort to ensure Austin's return to the United States is a team effort. This has been and continues to be a bipartisan and bicameral endeavor. I have collaborated with Members of Congress and Senators on both sides of the aisle to work toward bringing Austin home. I have written to President Trump regarding the urgency to bring Austin home safely. This resolution, H.Res. 17, reiterates my ongoing concern for Austin and amplifies the call for the release of Dr. Majd Kamalmaz, another American detained in Syria. We cannot rest until Austin, Majd, and all missing Americans are located and safely return to the United States to their families. The families of both Mr. Austin Tice and Dr. Majd Kamalmaz have called on American and international leaders to bring home their loved ones. It is our duty to do whatever we can to ensure that these and all other Americans held abroad are returned safely and as soon as possible, said Congressman French Hill (R-AR). I am proud and grateful for the work of many Americans and others across the globe to ensure their safe passage home and urge continued diligence. Our work will not be complete until all Americans are reunited with their families and loved ones. Austin's parents, Marc and Debra Tice, released a statement on the passage of H. Res. 17, Our family is profoundly grateful to our Congressman, Al Green, for his tireless, 24/7 work to bring Austin home. We also deeply appreciate his dedicated staff and many individual supporters whose involvement led to the passing of this resolution. Over these more than eight years, it has been a tremendous blessing to see the bipartisan, bicameral support across Capitol Hill on Austin's behalf. It is especially encouraging since this resolution supports President Trump's repeatedly expressed desire and commitment to Austin's secure release and safe return. We earnestly believe we can have Austin home for the holidays. H.Res.17 sends a clear message that the House of Representatives joins us in urging the President to continue the dialogue with the Syrian government and take the necessary action to bring Austin and Majd home. Congressman Green concluded, I extend my sincere gratitude to Congressman Hill (R-AK) for his efforts to bring his constituent Dr. Kamalmaz home; the House Foreign Affairs Committee and its leaders, Chairman Engel (D-NY) and Ranking Member McCaul (R-TX); Speaker Pelosi and Majority Leader Hoyer for bringing H.Res. 17 to the House Floor; the resolution's 41 cosponsors for their support; and, most importantly, the Tice Family for their unwavering commitment to Austin's safe release and return.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://doggett.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/independent-yet-interconnected-texas-us-history-spotlighted-senate,Independent Yet Interconnected: Texas - U.S. History Spotlighted as Senate Passes Doggett Texas Legation Bill,2020-12-03,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,TX,Lloyd Doggett,D000399,doggett.house.gov,,,legacy,"***For Immediate Release*** FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 3, 2020 Contact:Kate Stotesbery 202-494-4620 Independent Yet Interconnected: Texas - U.S. History Spotlighted as Senate Passes Doggett Texas Legation Bill Washington, D.C. Last night, the U.S. Senate passed U.S. Representative Lloyd Doggett's (D-TX) bipartisan Republic of Texas Legation Memorial Act (H.R. 3349) to pave the way for a commemoration of the Texas Legation in Washington, D.C., marking in our capital the chapter of Texas history when it was an independent nation. The House of Representatives passed Doggett's bill in September. Following Senate passage, assisted by Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX), the legislation heads to the President's desk to be signed into law this month. The history of the Texas Legation did not end with the annexation of Texas in 1845. Today, it lives on through the strength of the multicultural and multilingual communities that make our Lone Star State so dynamic, said Congressman Doggett. With this commemoration, those who visit our Nation's capital will have the opportunity to learn about this turning point. Congressman Doggett's bill will authorize the Daughters of the Republic of Texas to establish the Republic of Texas Legation Memorial as a commemorative work in the District of Columbia. The National Capital Memorial Advisory Commission approved the proposal in February, describing the effort as a unique, untold story [that] would enrich and diversify the portfolio of commemorative works in Washington. It was then approved unanimously by the House Natural Resources Committee in March. This fall, Rep. Doggett took to the House floor to speak about the legislation he authored. The history of the Texas Legation and its significance to American history is as broad as the pride held by present-day Texans over the days of their once-independent Republic. The district I represent includes the historic Alamo in San Antonio, said Congressman Doggett. With the battle cries of Remember the Alamo,' and Remember Goliad,' Texas eventually won its independence on March 2, 1836. And, as most Texans know, for almost a decade thereafter Texas was an independent nationand that independent spirit of the State continues. My own home in East Austin is only a few blocks from the historic French Legation, where diplomats resided when the nation of France maintained formal diplomatic relations with the nation of the Republic of Texas, he continued. Texans in turn established legations abroad, which negotiated terms of trade and recognition with multiple European countries. Most importantly, a Texas delegation was sent on the very long and difficult journey from Texas to Washington, D.C. Today, we find plaques about the Texas Legation in London and Paris, but there is not yet one here in Washington, where the Legation's work had the most profound effect. ### Follow Congressman Doggett Facebook:https://www.Facebook.com/RepLloydDoggett | Twitter: @RepLloydDoggett| Instagram: @RepLloydDoggett",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://gonzalez.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressmen-gonzalez-and-cuellar-and-senators-cornyn-and-henrich-introduce,"Congressmen Gonzalez and Cuellar and Senators Cornyn and Henrich Introduce Bipartisan, Bicameral Reauthorization of Donations Acceptance Program",2020-12-03,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,TX,Vicente Gonzalez,G000581,gonzalez.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Today,Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15), Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) Senator John Cornyn (R-TX), Congresswoman Xochitl Torres Small (NM-02) and Senator Martin Heinrich (D-NM) introduced the Donations Acceptance Program (DAP) Reauthorization Act of 2020. The Donations Acceptance Program enables U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) to explore, create and facilitate partnerships for improvements on port of entry infrastructures and technology, with the investment made by the local entities. The goal of DAP is to work with communities along the border to help equip CBP's frontline officers and trade specialists with the tools and capabilities they need to operate more effectively. Accepted donations may be used in support of a wide array of CBP operations and may include: new lanes, inspection booths, inspection technologies, intellectual property rights enforcement tools, and more. I am encouraged that we can come together in a bipartisan way to reauthorize the DonationsAcceptance Program. By extending this program, we are protecting ongoing public-private partnerships, spurring job growth, and strengthening the trade and tourism economies of border communities. I will continue to support efforts that will fully modernize ourports of entry, like thePharr andDonna-RioBravoPOEs in South Texas, and make life better for those in the 15th District of Texas,said Congressman Gonzalez. The Donations Acceptance Program is a critical method to invest and expedite improvements at ports of entry in the United States,said Congressman Cuellar.I established this program in 2013 and worked hard to expand it to create jobs, support trade industries and tourism, reduce border wait times, and increase border security. This reauthorization will only further expand our economic growth and security throughout our nation. As the representative of the busiest land port of entry, I am committed to improving our ports of entry to improve safe and efficient flow of legitimate trade and travel. I want to thank my colleagues in the House, Representatives Torres-Small, McCaul, Gonzalez, and Hurd, as well as Senator Cornyn and Senator Heinrich for their help in writing this bill and ushering support in the Senate. Not even four years after my bill to establish this program became law, multiple Texas ports of entry have utilized public-private partnerships with great success,said Sen. Cornyn. Without this extension, the program will expire, associated construction on new lanes and inspection booths will come to a halt, and ports of entry will have to return to competing for scarce federal resources already stretched because of the pandemic. Since its inception, the Donations Acceptance Program has facilitated beneficial public-private partnerships between border communities and the stakeholders invested in their success. This crucial program serves as an important avenue to make necessary improvements to infrastructure at our land ports of entry, like Santa Teresa, and maximize trade opportunities along the U.S.-Mexico border. I am proud to work alongside my colleagues in the House and Senate to ensure the continuation of this critical program,said Congresswoman Torres Small. I've been proud to work with business and community leaders to build public-private partnerships and secure millions of dollars in federal funds to facilitate lawful, international trade at New Mexico's ports of entry. We must remain focused on building on our recent successes, like those at the Santa Teresa port of entry, and make sure New Mexico's vibrant border communities and growing ports of entry have the resources they need to thrive,said Sen. Heinrich.That's why I'm introducing this bipartisan legislation to reauthorize the Donations Acceptance Program and strengthen our ports of entry. I will keep fighting to secure forward-looking infrastructure investments in every corner of New Mexico. CBP's Donations Acceptance Program provides a platform for stakeholders to invest in key port of entry enhancements to improve and streamline processing. Through public-private partnerships, this program enables CBP to better meet its core mission of facilitating lawful and secure trade and travel. We've already witnessed the success of this program and it is my hope that it is swiftly reauthorized in law,said Congressman McCaul. Cross-border trade is the lifeblood of many communities in my district. The Donation Acceptance Program is vital for infrastructure improvements at ports of entry that will in turn create jobs, reduce arduous border wait times and facilitate the flow of goods and services through the region,said Rep. Hurd,whose district includes over 800 miles of the U.S.-Mexico border, more than any other Member of Congress.I'm proud to join my colleagues in reauthorizing this program, which will have a huge economic impact on the hardworking folks in our communities along the border and the surrounding areas who rely on ports of entry to feed and care for their families. Original co-sponsors include Congressmen Michael McCaul (TX-10) and Will Hurd (TX-23). # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=405938,Rep. Cuellar to Serve as Chief Deputy Whip and Member of the Steering and Policy Committee in 117th Congress,2020-12-02,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,TX,Henry Cuellar,C001063,cuellar.house.gov,,,legacy,"Rep. Cuellar to Serve as Chief Deputy Whip and Member of the Steering and Policy Committee in 117th Congress Washington, D.C. Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) will continue to serve as Chief Deputy Whip and a senior member of the Steering and Policy Committee in the 117th Congress. Congressman Cuellar released the following statement regarding his appointment: I would like to thank House Majority Whip Jim Clyburn for providing me with this great leadership opportunity. It is an honor to serve alongside this team once again as we deliver on the promises we made to the American people. Although we maintained our House majority and gained a Democratic president, it is critical that we continue to reach across the aisle to implement common-sense policies that make our families safer, our jobs more secure, and our nation more united. The American people are looking to the federal government to create bipartisan results that move our country forward. I remain steadfast in my commitment to working with the Whip team and my fellow colleagues to build consensus on the pressing issues facing our nation. As Chief Deputy Whip, Congressman Cuellar will be responsible for mobilizing votes within the party on major issues. The Steering and Policy Committee recommends committee assignments to the Democratic Caucus and helps shape the House policy agenda. Photo:Congressman Henry Cuellar to Serve as Chief Deputy Whip and Member of the Steering and Policy Committee in 117th Congress.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=405939,"Rep. Cuellar, Senator Cornyn, Rep. Torres Small, Senator Heinrich and Texas Representatives Introduce Reauthorization of Donations Acceptance Program",2020-12-02,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,TX,Henry Cuellar,C001063,cuellar.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. Today, Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) Senator John Cornyn (R-TX), Congresswoman Xochitl Torres Small (NM-02) and Senator Martin Heinrich (D-NM) announce plans to introduce the Donations Acceptance Program Reauthorization Act of 2020. The Donations Acceptance Program (DAP) enables U.S. Customs and Border Protection's (CBP) and the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) to explore, create and facilitate partnerships for improvements on port of entry infrastructures and technology, with the investment made by the local entities. Original co-sponsors include Representatives Michael McCaul (TX-10), Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15), and Will Hurd (TX-23). The goal of DAP is to work with communities along the border to help equip CBP's frontline officers and trade specialists with the tools and capabilities they need to operate more effectively. Accepted donations may be used in support of a wide array of CBP operations and may include: new lanes, inspection booths, inspection technologies, intellectual property rights enforcement tools, and more. The Donations Acceptance Program is a critical method to invest and expedite improvements at ports of entry in the United States, said Congressman Cuellar. I established this program in 2013 and worked hard to expand it to create jobs, support trade industries and tourism, reduce border wait times, and increase border security. This reauthorization will only further expand our economic growth and security throughout our nation. As the representative of the busiest land port of entry, I am committed to improving our ports of entry to improve safe and efficient flow of legitimate trade and travel. I want to thank my colleagues in the House, Representatives Torres-Small, McCaul, Gonzalez, and Hurd, as well as Senator Cornyn and Senator Heinrich for their help in writing this bill and ushering support in the Senate. Not even four years after my bill to establish this program became law, multiple Texas ports of entry have utilized public-private partnerships with great success, said Sen. Cornyn. Without this extension, the program will expire, associated construction on new lanes and inspection booths will come to a halt, and ports of entry will have to return to competing for scarce federal resources already stretched because of the pandemic. Since its inception, the Donations Acceptance Program has facilitated beneficial public-private partnerships between border communities and the stakeholders invested in their success. This crucial program serves as an important avenue to make necessary improvements to infrastructure at our land ports of entry, like Santa Teresa, and maximize trade opportunities along the U.S.-Mexico border. I am proud to work alongside my colleagues in the House and Senate to ensure the continuation of this critical program, said Congresswoman Torres Small. I've been proud to work with business and community leaders to build public-private partnerships and secure millions of dollars in federal funds to facilitate lawful, international trade at New Mexico's ports of entry. We must remain focused on building on our recent successes, like those at the Santa Teresa port of entry, and make sure New Mexico's vibrant border communities and growing ports of entry have the resources they need to thrive,said Sen. Heinrich.That's why I'm introducing this bipartisan legislation to reauthorize the Donations Acceptance Program and strengthen our ports of entry. I will keep fighting to secure forward-looking infrastructure investments in every corner of New Mexico. CBP's Donations Acceptance Program provides a platform for stakeholders to invest in key port of entry enhancements to improve and streamline processing. Through public-private partnerships, this program enables CBP to better meet its core mission of facilitating lawful and secure trade and travel. We've already witnessed the success of this program and it is my hope that it is swiftly reauthorized in law, said Congressman McCaul. I am encouraged that we can come together in a bipartisan way to reauthorize the DonationsAcceptance Program. By extending this program, we are protecting ongoing public-private partnerships, spurring job growth, and strengthening the trade and tourism economies of border communities. I will continue to support efforts that will fully modernize ourports of entry (POEs), like thePharr andDonna-RioBravoPOEs in South Texas, and make life better for those in the 15th District of Texas, said Congressman Gonzalez. Cross-border trade is the lifeblood of many communities in my district. The Donation Acceptance Program is vital for infrastructure improvements at ports of entry that will in turn create jobs, reduce arduous border wait times and facilitate the flow of goods and services through the region,said Rep. Hurd,whose district includes over 800 miles of the U.S.-Mexico border, more than any other Member of Congress.I'm proud to join my colleagues in reauthorizing this program, which will have a huge economic impact on the hardworking folks in our communities along the border and the surrounding areas who rely on ports of entry to feed and care for their families. In 2013, Congressman Cuellar successfully added legislative language in Appropriations Act that authorized a pilot program in which CBP could enter into agreements to receive donations of property or non-personal services at ports of entry. In 2016, Congressman Cuellar and Senator John Cornyn passed H.R. 875, the Cross-Border Trade Enhancement Act of 2016, which built on this pilot program. Since its inception, the DAP has entered into 40 partnerships, leveraging investments worth $219 million in POEs, primarily on the southwest border.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://algreen.house.gov/press-release/congressman-al-green-highlights-small-business-saturday,Congressman Al Green Highlights Small Business Saturday,2020-11-28,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,TX,Al Green,G000553,algreen.house.gov,,,legacy,"(Houston, TX) On Saturday, November 28, 2020, Congressman Al Green released the following statement, highlighting Small Business Saturday: Small Business Saturday highlights the importance of small businesses as the cornerstones of our communities. Small businesses and local mom-and-pop shops offer some people their first jobs; serve as the backdrop for many cherished memories; and greatly contribute to local tax revenue, which preserves the economic health and longevity of the community, said Congressman Al Green. Many small businesses have suffered tremendously in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, with nearly 100,000 small businesses across the United States permanently closing since March 1st. Let's do our part to ensure that our favorite small businesses are able to keep their doors open by shopping with them for Small Business Saturday. Congressman Green continued, As months continue to pass without another stimulus package and many Americans risk losing relief provided by the CARES Act after December 31st, I vow to continue working on behalf of my constituents not only for small business relief but also for unemployment assistance, nutrition assistance, rental assistance, and a second round of direct economic impact payments. The COVID-19 pandemic brought several harsh realities into view, including increased unemployment, severe food insecurity, evictions, and the vulnerabilities small, local business owners face. This has been a crisis that exacerbated many existing crises. As we work to provide relief for Americans whose lives have been disrupted by this pandemic, we must also work to alleviate these societal issues for good.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://doggett.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/kut-parents-juggling-work-pandemic-should-be-extra-careful-about-dangerous,"KUT: Parents Juggling Work In The Pandemic Should Be Extra Careful About Dangerous Toys, Annual Report Warns",2020-11-27,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,TX,Lloyd Doggett,D000399,doggett.house.gov,,,legacy,"Caution tape surrounds playground equipment in South Austin on April 1. As children spend more time at home during the pandemic, working parents may find it difficult to constantly supervise their play. It's especially important to keep dangerous toys out of the home this holiday season while parents may be managing multiple responsibilities and not always watching over children at play, a new report says. The 35th annual ""Trouble in Toyland"" report from the nonprofit U.S. Public Interest Research Group says the biggest danger comes from small toy parts and game pieces that may be choking hazards. While toys with small pieces should be labeled as being for children age 3 and up, that's not always the case. U.S. PIRG says every child is different and caregivers should use their judgment before letting a child play with a toy. Shoppers should scrutinize results from sites like Amazon when filtering for toys by age group, because the results aren't always age appropriate. The classic rule of thumb that parents need to remember is if it can fit inside the cardboard remnants of a toilet paper roll, it's a choking hazard for your child, Bay Scoggin, director of the Texas Public Interest Research Group, said. The report also warns shoppers about noisy toys. It cites the World Health Organization's findings that sounds over 80 decibels can damage a child's hearing if the child is exposed long enough. Noises between 100 and 120 decibels can cause damage if it lasts more than one minute,"" it states. It notes high-powered recreational magnets like those meant for adults to create shapes and figures can be harmful if swallowed. Magnets can link in the digestive system and cause serious or even life-threatening conditions. I have seen many children in-patient at Dell Children's who have suffered the consequences of swallowing small high-powered magnets or small batteries, Mary Beth Bennett, a board member of Physicians for Social Responsibility, said. And the damage that it does to their insides really is awful to see, irreparable, often has to be surgically corrected, and they have life-long consequences. The Consumer Products Safety Commission can order toys that are considered unsafe to be recalled and removed from stores. However, those products may still be in secondhand markets like garage sales, flea markets and online platforms like eBay. The report highlighted several recalled products that could still be found for sale online, including a toy shopping cart that can break into sharp pieces and a Fisher Price Barbie Dream Camper with a foot pedal that can get stuck and cause a crash. Congressman Lloyd Doggett said there are limits to what government can do. The number one piece of advice we give is that parents should not assume that a toy bought online is safe, he said. And parents cannot count on government or anyone else to protect their children in all circumstance. When it comes to hi-tech gifts, the report advises parents to be careful with Bluetooth-connected toys that strangers could hack to communicate with children. The report also advises parental control over gaming consoles to prevent children from accessing games with harmful language or contact with strangers online.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://doggett.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/san-antonio-express-news-deadline-looms-enrolling-health-insurance-san,San Antonio Express-News: Deadline looms for enrolling in health insurance; San Antonio officials urge residents to get it done soon,2020-11-27,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,TX,Lloyd Doggett,D000399,doggett.house.gov,,,legacy,"As coronavirus cases spike across the nation, San Antonio officials are sending out another, but just as important, public health message: Enroll in health insurance. Dec. 15 is the last day to choose a health plan on the federal health exchange known as healthcare.gov a deadline many officials and experts believe will not be extended, despite the pandemic wreaking havoc on the U.S. economy and a strained health care system. I think with the repeated slander of the Affordable Care Act and the legal challenges after the many attempts to repeal it, there may be some people who feel this option isn't available to them or that it's an option that is so uncertain that they are reluctant to consider it, said U.S. Rep. Lloyd Doggett, D-Austin, whose congressional district includes San Antonio. But Doggett said, speaking at a new conference with other public officials earlier this week, getting an ACA plan through the exchange is the best alternative for many people in Bexar County and the surrounding areas to get access to a family doctor in the midst of a pandemic. City Councilwoman Ana Sandoval said much the same in Spanish at the news conference, stressing there are free resources available to help navigate enrollment. CentroMed leads a coalition called EnrollSA, which pools funds from local partners to help people enroll in healthcare.gov plans. Individuals also can sign up on their own. There are two new insurance carriers on the exchange this time around for a total of five in Bexar County, offering a total of 72 plans. Experts say the difference between health plans could mean hundreds of dollars in savings, so it pays to check out the options. EnrollSA is offering assistance in considering those choices with certified application counselors every day onEnrollSA.comor by calling210-977-7997, said Ana Maria Garza Cortez, vice president and chief development officer at CentroMed. Limited in-person services are available by appointment only because of physical distancing requirements. As of Friday, EnrollSA had completed 1,405 appointments, which led to filing 1,140 marketplace applications. So far, 758 of those have enrolled in health plans on the exchange. Last year, the organization enrolled 2,019 individuals with many scrambling to file just before the deadline. Currently, more than 11 million Americans purchase their health plans through the ACA marketplace, including nearly 65,000 in the San Antonio area. More than 80 percent of consumers are eligible for financial assistance, which can reduce the cost of monthly premiums, Bexar County Judge Nelson Wolff noted at the news conference earlier this week. Mayor Ron Nirenberg talked about the peace of mind that comes with having comprehensive medical insurance a real concern during COVID-19, which can lead to high medical bills even for those not hospitalized. Even before the pandemic, outreach for this six-week open enrollment period was going to be harder than in previous years. Methodist Healthcare Ministries CEO Jaime Wesolowski described massive cuts in federal funding for marketing and advertising, leaving the public to figure out coverage options on their own or skip it altogether. San Antonio is the biggest city in Texas without any funding through the federally facilitated navigator program. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services previously funded a robust call center and placed navigators in communities across the country to assist people with enrollment on the ACA marketplace, but funding went from $63 million in 2016 for the entire country to $10 million this year under the Trump administration. Local organizations have had to step in to try to fill in the gap and get the word out to the public. Insurance broker Justin Holland says he's as busy as ever helping people weigh their health plan options for 2021. For the past three weeks, his San Antonio-based practice, recently acquired by Spire Risk Management, has been assisting clients every 30 minutes from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. mostly through phone appointments. There is no doubt that COVID has played a part in this increased urgency to enroll in 2021 coverage, he said, adding that he hopes the government extends the deadline to accommodate the bottleneck of individuals and families trying to enroll at the last minute, like they've seen most years. Last year, there was a short extension because of major technology glitches on the healthcare.gov website. Holland said despite the increased options, he's seeing clients stick with their previous companies to avoid searching for a new in-network primary care provider or specialist. The five carriers in Bexar County are Ambetter from Superior Health Plan, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas, Friday Health Plans, Molina Healthcare and Oscar. Private insurers submitted rate filings for 2021 not knowing how the pandemic would affect the company's health costs, utilization and enrollment. As COVID-19 testing and deaths from foregone care have the potential to drive up costs, insurers also expected consumers would avoid routine care while waiting for a vaccine. In Texas, Blue Cross Blue Shield increased its premiums by 2.9 percent, Molina Healthcare of Texas by 5.3 percent and Oscar Insurance Company by 9.9 percent, according to data collected from state regulators by the Kaiser Family Foundation. Eric Lane, a health insurance agent with more than 30 years of experience, said he's noticed that those who want to stay on their present plans have had rate increases that seem a bit high. I would recommend they shop around, he said. Lane said one of the biggest mistakes he's seen is clients going to out-of-network providers as many plans will not cover those services unless it's an urgent care or emergency event. Everyone should take the time to find out if they can qualify and afford a comprehensive major medical plan like those offered on the ACA, he added. It's worth their time. Allison De Paoli, founder of local insurance and benefits firm Altiqe Consulting, said as far as employer-based plans go, she has seen rate changes all over the board up, down and flat. Prescription drug costs continue to increase rapidly. Most employers won't change medical benefits, she said, unless they absolutely must because people have had a lot of change already. Employers are also showing more of an interest in EAP or Employee Assistance Programs, which offers counseling services for personal and work-related concerns such as stress and financial issues.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://gonzalez.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-gonzalez-urges-biden-transition-team-appoint-more-latinos-cabinet,Congressman Gonzalez Urges Biden Transition Team to Appoint More Latinos to Cabinet,2020-11-27,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,TX,Vicente Gonzalez,G000581,gonzalez.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Today, Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) issued the following statement: This last election showed growing concerns in Latino communities, specifically, Mexican Americans in South Texas and across our nation, with our Democratic Party. There is a clear anxiousness to see an America that represents them. It is incumbent upon the incoming Biden-Harris administration to nominate a cabinet that represents the American people and the more than 60.6 million Latinos in the United States, out of which 62% are from Mexican American communities like mine. We have been amongst the most loyal and qualified patriots for generations and are now laser focused in watching America's new cabinet unfold. The expectations and demands of inclusion and participation could not be more clear. I echo the sentiments of my Congressional Hispanic Caucus colleagues that President-elect Joe Biden and the transition team should urgently consider appointing five Latinos to the cabinet. I look forward to working with the Biden-Harris transition team to deliver for the 15th District of Texas, starting with the selection of cabinet and senior government officials that look like and relate to our communities. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://doggett.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/san-antonio-report-us-rep-doggett-i-can-t-think-more-difficult-time-be,San Antonio Report: U.S. Rep. Doggett: I cant think of a more difficult time to be without health insurance,2020-11-24,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,TX,Lloyd Doggett,D000399,doggett.house.gov,,,legacy,"More than 18 percent of San Antonians under the age of 65 did not have health insurance as of last year, according todata from the U.S. Census Bureau. With the coronavirus pandemic ongoing, this means San Antonio families are more at risk for financial ruin should they get sick, Mayor Ron Nirenberg said during a press conference Tuesday to highlight local programs residents can utilize to help them sign up for health insurance under the Affordable Care Act (ACA).Dec. 15 is the deadline for open enrollment. The health status of a city like San Antonio is directly related to having access to health care and directly correlated to having health insurance, Nirenberg said. The higher the rate of insured families in the community, the health status of the community will be improved. U.S. Rep. Lloyd Doggettsaid its important to get as many people health insurance as possible these days. I can't think of a more difficult time to be without health insurance than in the midst of a pandemic, said Doggett, who serves as chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee's Health Subcommittee. People who contract COVID-19 and are hospitalized often end up with large bills, and even some who don't end up in the hospital have lingering problems that require treatment, he said. One reason so many San Antonians are uninsured is because they do not know how to enroll, Doggett said. San Antonio is the largest city in Texas that does not receive funding through the federal Navigator Program, which helps other cities with enrollment outreach and marketing, he added. The Trump administrationcut those fundsin 2017. In an effort to fill in this gap,CentroMed, the local nonprofit health care organization that focuses on serving vulnerable populations, is offering enrollment assistance to San Antonio families. Also helping isEnrollSA, Bexar County's volunteer coalition of organizations that employ certified application counselors to help people enroll in ACA plans, said Ana Maria Garza Cortez, vice president of development and marketing at CentroMed. Critical to this mission isMethodist Healthcare Ministries(MHM), which provides much of the funding for both CentroMed's and EnrollSA's outreach efforts, Garza Cortez said. Their combined efforts have aided residents on San Antonio's South Side and West Side, where health care coverage whether from private companies or public programs such as ACA plans or Medicaid is sparse, she added. Republicans in Congress have aimed to repeal the ACA, known commonly as Obamacare, since its passage in 2010 but have failed to do so, and efforts to replace it with another health care plan haven't materialized. President Donald Trump, who has called the ACA a broken mess, has slashed the ACA budget and pushed short-term health plans as a more affordable solution. But Doggett said such plans were not comprehensive enough. These are short-term plans. They don't provide coverage for COVID testing and treatment, Doggett said. They don't provide essential benefits. They're junk. In the past few years, federal contracts for ACA outreach and enrollment assistance in 15 cities, including San Antonio, have been canceled, said Jamie Wesolowski, Methodist Healthcare Ministries' president and CEO. Six of those cities are in Texas. The combination of these federal cuts means local government and health care officials have an uphill battle to spread the word that affordable coverage is still available and getting health coverage is possible, Wesolowski said. This is why Methodist Healthcare Ministries has provided funding to EnrollSA, Wesolowski said.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://gonzalez.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressmen-gonzalez-and-hurd-introduce-bipartisan-bill-help-border-communities,Congressmen Gonzalez and Hurd Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Help Border Communities Identify Missing Migrants,2020-11-23,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,TX,Vicente Gonzalez,G000581,gonzalez.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Today, Congressmen Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) and Will Hurd (TX-23) introduced H.R. 8772 ortheMissing Persons and Unidentified Remains Act ofAct of 2020, bipartisan and bicameral legislation thatwill improve local jurisdictions' ability to record and report missing persons and unidentified remains foundin South Texas and elsewhere along the U.S.-Mexico border.This is the companion bill to Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) and Vice President-Elect Senator Kamala Harris (D-CA)'s legislation that recently passed the U.S. Senate. With the devastating landfall of Hurricanes Iota and Eta and the destruction of crops and livelihoods, we can expect more migration from Central American countries to the United States in the future, said Congressman Gonzalez. While we continue to work with neighbors to address the root causes of migration, our local governments in South Texas and across the U.S. Mexico border continue to need help recovering and identifying the remains of missing migrants. It's my hope that these resources will offer relief to local law enforcement and provide closure for the families of those tragically lost. Until we address the root causes of mass migration flows from Central America, individuals will continue to make the perilous journey north, said Congressman Hurd, who represents more of the U.S.-Mexico border than any other Member of Congress. This bipartisan bill helps prevent tragic deaths along the border by expanding CBP's rescue and apprehension capabilities, while also mitigating the burden placed on localities to identify perished individuals with the dignity they deserve. I am proud to join my fellow Texans Rep. Gonzalez and Sen. Cornyn again in working to provide a solution for this very real challenge faced by law enforcement agencies across my district. This bill is endorsed by the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC), the Southern Border Communities Coalition, the South Texans' Property Rights Association, the Texas Border Coalition, the National Criminal Justice Association, the Consortium of Forensic Science Organizations (including the American Academy of Forensic Sciences, the American Academy of Psychiatry and the Law, the American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors, the International Association for Identification, the National Association of Medical Examiners, the Society of Forensic Toxicologists and American Board of Forensic Toxicology), the National Immigration Forum, and the Colibri Center for Human Rights. The bill will: Expand eligibility for grants to allow applications from State and local governments; accredited government-funded Combined DNA Index System (CODIS) forensic laboratories; medical examiners; accredited publicly-funded toxicology, crime, and university forensic anthropology center laboratories; and nonprofit organizations who have collaborative agreements with State and county forensic offices for entry of data into CODIS or National Missing and Unidentified Persons Systems (NamUS). Require reporting to the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) and NamUS regarding missing persons and deceased individuals found in each applicant's jurisdiction. Add privacy protections for biological family reference samples that will be uploaded into CODIS by precluding disclosure of such information to Federal or state law enforcement agency's for criminal law enforcement purposes. Authorize the use of grant funds to cover costs incurred since FY 2017 and going forward for the: transportation, processing, identification, and reporting of missing persons and unidentified remains; hiring of additional DNA case analysts and technicians, fingerprint examiners, and forensic odonatologists and anthropologists needed to support identification; and purchase of state-of-the-art forensic and DNA-typing and analytical equipment. Expand U.S. Customs and Border Protection's (CBP) legal authorities to allow for the purchase of additional self-powering 9-1-1- cellular relay rescue beacons to mitigate deaths in places where CBP determines are appropriate. Add reporting requirements for the NamUS Program regarding the number of unidentified person cases, anthropology cases, suspected border crossing cases and associations made. Add reporting requirements for CBP and the Government Accountability Office (GAO) on unidentified remains and use of rescue beacons. Congressmen Gonzalez and Hurd originally introduced this bill in the 115th Congress. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=405923,"Rep. Cuellars Statement on the Retirement of South Texas College President, Dr. Shirley Reed",2020-11-20,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,TX,Henry Cuellar,C001063,cuellar.house.gov,,,legacy,"Rio Grande City, TXCongressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) released the following video and statement regarding the retirement of South Texas College President, Dr. Shirley Reed. Dr. Reed has been the president since the college's founding in 1993. I first met Dr. Shirley Reed in the middle of a dusty field in Rio Grande City for the groundbreaking of South Texas College's Starr County campus. Even though the wind was raising the dust and getting into our eyes, both of us were excited about the opportunities this new campus would bring for students and our community. Dr. Reed invited me to speak at this groundbreaking ceremony because as Chairman of the Education Subcommittee on Appropriations in the Texas State Legislature, I secured funding for fast-growing colleges throughout Texas, including South Texas College. Since then, we have been working together to fund projects that advance access to quality education for the people of South Texas. I want to congratulate Dr. Reed on her tenure at South Texas College. Her passion, hard work, and leadership has created a revered education institution, driving regional and economic prosperity in the region.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://doggett.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/more-trump-doubletalk-drug-prices,More Trump Doubletalk on Drug Prices,2020-11-20,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,TX,Lloyd Doggett,D000399,doggett.house.gov,,,legacy,"***For Immediate Release*** FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 20, 2020 Contact:Kate Stotesbery 202-494-4620 More Trump Doubletalk on Drug Prices Washington, D.C. This afternoon, U.S. Representative Lloyd Doggett (D-TX), Chairman of the House Ways & Means Health Subcommittee, released this statement immediately following President Trump's remarks regarding drug pricing measures: Today's announcement offers little more relief from soaring prescription prices than Trump's September announcement of $200 drug cards, which he never delivered. By delaying until the end of his Presidency taking action he could have undertaken at the beginning, Trump offers an invitation to legal challengesnot a guarantee of relief from price gouging. And the most important order remains missing: lower prices for drugs developed with taxpayer dollars, including COVID-19 treatments and vaccines. Trump is a loser not only in this election, but in failing for his entire presidency to lower drug prices for anyone. One positive signal from Trump's misleading announcement is to President-elect Biden, who is clearly empowered to take effective administrative action to actually lower drug prices for many next year. ### Follow Congressman Doggett Facebook:https://www.Facebook.com/RepLloydDoggett | Twitter: @RepLloydDoggett| Instagram: @RepLloydDoggett",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://gonzalez.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-gonzalez-statement-trump-administration-s-release-former-mexican,Congressman Gonzalez Statement on Trump Administrations Release of Former Mexican Defense Minister,2020-11-19,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,TX,Vicente Gonzalez,G000581,gonzalez.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Congressman Vicente Gonzalez(TX-15), a member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs and representative of a district on the Texas Mexico border, issued the following statement: For the Trump administration, screaming law and order means crying wolf. For Attorney General Barr, justice has always been selective and political.Failing to prosecuteGeneral Salvador CienfuegosZepedain the United Statesis an insult to the years of hard work byfederalagents and prosecutors. Furthermore, it chips away at a deteriorating justice system under a leader who has seriously mismanaged a once independent institution. American foreign policy cannot be made in the dark. The U.S.-Mexico relationship is rooted in a long history of cooperation on issues ofimproving citizen security, combatting criminal organizations, and mutual support for the rule of law. Attorney General Barr must provide a clear explanation as to the events that have unfolded and I urge Mexico to administer justice in a fair and transparent manner. Congressman Gonzalez also signed a joint letter with Congressman Albio Sires (NJ-08), Chairman of the House Subcommittee on Foreign Affairs for the Western Hemisphere, Civilian Security, and Trade urging Mexico'sAttorneyGeneral, Dr. Alejandro Gertz Maneroto conduct a full investigation in the drug trafficking case against General Salvador Cienfuegos. The letter is available here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=405919,Rep. Cuellar Supports The Valley Land Fund in Fight to Protect the Salineo Wildlife Preserve from Border Wall,2020-11-18,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,TX,Henry Cuellar,C001063,cuellar.house.gov,,,legacy,"Roma, TXCongressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) released the following statement regarding The Valley Land Fund's decision to not sell the Salineo Wildlife Preserve to the Administration for border wall construction: The Salineo Wildlife Preserve is an irreplaceable treasure on our border, hosting a population of rare birds, which Americans from across the country travel to observe. That's why I've worked with the Valley Land Fund to preserve the property and the diverse wildlife it supports from a wasteful and ineffective border wall. As Vice Chairman of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security, I will work to prohibit any additional funding for border wall construction on the preserve as I have done for other sensitive sites. As a defender of wildlife and public lands, I will continue to fight against the construction of a border wall. I want to thank The Valley Land Fund, including the Executive Director Debralee Rodriguez, for their decision to end the sale of the Salineo Wildlife Preserve. Together, we will protect this Wildlife Reserve for future generations.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://gonzalez.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-gonzalez-urges-caution-afghanistan-troop-drawdown-and-continued,Congressman Gonzalez Urges Caution on Afghanistan Troop Drawdown and for Continued Peace NegotiationsAnchor,2020-11-17,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,TX,Vicente Gonzalez,G000581,gonzalez.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON - Today, Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15), a member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs made the following statement: As the Trump administration draws down our service members in Afghanistan, I want to urge caution. We must be methodical and analyze the impact of bringing our troops home. It's vital that the United States maintain its commitments to our international allies and partners and consider the national security ramifications of this process. Continued negotiations between the Afghan government and the Taliban are necessary to determine a path toward peace. It is my hope that each party will return to the negotiating table and cease violence for the mutual benefit of the Afghan people. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://gonzalez.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-gonzalez-urges-hhs-sec-azar-provide-emergency-funds-senior-living,Congressman Gonzalez Urges HHS Sec. Azar to Provide Emergency Funds for Senior Living Facilities for COVID-19,2020-11-16,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,TX,Vicente Gonzalez,G000581,gonzalez.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) and18other Members of Congress requested Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Alex Azar allocate unused Provider Relief Fund moniesas soon as possible to provideAssistedLivingFacilitieswith much needed support. Senior living center operators have received a fraction of the relief needed and continue to sustain heavy financial losses while caring for a vulnerable population. COVID-related losses total roughly $15 billion for these care centers. In the letter to Secretary Azar, the Members of Congress discuss the devastating impact of COVID-19 onseniorlivingcommunitiesand request additional funds: Such devastating losses are not sustainable and will dramatically impede the ability of these facilities to administer long-term rapid-testing and vaccinations. Therefore, senior living communities must have the financial resources to procure tests and acquire the requisite PPE and staff to effectively implement widescale testing. We urge you to allocate unused Provider Relief Fund monies, immediately, to provide assisted living communities with much needed support. Unlike other providers, whose losses were felt in the earlier days of this pandemic (due to loss of elective procedures), the senior living industry is suffering our most significant losses now and these losses will only be compounded in the future. This is due to the sharp decline in occupancy rate.Many providers are reporting declines in admissions of 75% compared to the same period in 2019. In fact, assisted living occupancy fell to a record low in the second quarter of 2020. The full letter can be found here. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://doggett.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/austin-chronicle-aca-open-enrollment-begins-hurry,The Austin Chronicle: ACA Open Enrollment Begins in a Hurry,2020-11-13,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,TX,Lloyd Doggett,D000399,doggett.house.gov,,,legacy,"Open enrollment for Affordable Care Act health insurance began on Nov. 1 and ends Dec. 15. In a press conference on Monday, U.S. Rep. Lloyd Doggett, Mayor Steve Adler, Council Member Greg Casar, Foundation Communities Executive Director Walter Moreau, and local musician Lesly Reynaga urged people to apply for health insurance in the short window they have, especially during COVID-19. ""512/381-4520 if folks call that number, we can start walking them through the documents they need and get them enrolled,"" said Moreau. Foundation Communities enrolls about 5,000 people every year, and because they can't do it in person this time, outreach is more important than ever. ""The limiting factor is people knowing about it,"" said Adler. Under the ACA, those with refugee status may apply, and preexisting conditions are not a barrier. ""We're a multilingual staff, so we can help people who have language barriers or computer barriers,"" said Moreau. Coverage is not limited to Travis County residents people from Kyle, Round Rock, Lockhart, and all Central Texas counties are eligible. Foundation Communities also partners with the Health Alliance for Austin Musicians to insure around 1,800 musicians every year. Reynaga said, ""I know there are a lot of plans out there ... The reason Foundation Communities is so important is [that] they have specialized people who will guide you through the process."" There are six insurance companies and more than 70 plans to choose from in the ACA marketplace for Travis County, so Moreau says, ""We do hope people will make an appointment right away especially if you need more time to make a decision between plans or research doctor lists or pharmacy lists. Health insurance is complicated, so the sooner people can call us, the better."" The ACA was brought before the U.S. Supreme Court for the third time Tuesday, Nov. 10, but Congressman Doggett said, ""Nothing the Supreme Court may do will affect any right that you can get if you sign up before Dec. 15. Some are trying so hard to take away your right to get health insurance don't let them get away with it. You've got a year of coverage, and that's really important in the midst of this pandemic."" To get enrolled, go to www.prosperhealthcoverage.org or call 512/381-4520. Have your Social Security number, income, projected income for next year (Foundation Communities can help with that calculation), 2019 tax return, and www.healthcare.gov username and password at the ready, or get the full list of requirements once you start the process.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://algreen.house.gov/press-release/congressman-al-green-congressman-joaquin-castro-present-resolution-supporting-endsars,"Congressman Al Green, Congressman Joaquin Castro Present Resolution Supporting #EndSARS Peaceful Protest Movement in Nigeria",2020-11-12,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,TX,Al Green,G000553,algreen.house.gov,,,legacy,"(Houston, TX) On Thursday, November 12, 2020, Congressman Al Green (TX-09) and Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20) released the following statement announcing their resolution in support of the #EndSARS peaceful protest movement in Nigeria: End SARS has become a meaningful rallying cry, ringing loudly throughout Nigeria and across the globe after reports of wrongful killings of many innocent persons on October 20, 2020, at the Lekki Tollgate in Lagos, Congressman Al Green who represents one of the largest Nigerian populations in the United States said. I have expressed my support for peaceful protesters in Nigeria and have emphasized the international importance of this issue, as Black lives matter wherever they may be. Congressman Green added, I vehemently oppose and condemn the violent crackdown on peaceful protesters by Nigeria's security forces. This is in part why I and my colleague Congressman Castro have presented a congressional resolution in support of the #EndSARS peaceful protest movement. This resolution in addition to my previous letters to Secretary of State Mike Pompeo as well as United Nations officials articulates our solidarity with peaceful protesters and urges the Nigerian Government to uphold the right to peaceful protest and assembly in accordance with international, African, and Nigerian policies. I thank Congressman Castro as well as multiple human rights organizations for their support of this resolution. Nigerians are protesting police violence, and like here in the United States, demanding justice. I'm proud to co-lead this resolution as a statement of support for the people of Nigeria who are protesting against these injustices, said Congressman Joaquin Castro, Vice Chair of the House Foreign Affairs Committee. Human rights abuses, including extrajudicial executions of peaceful protestors, must be independently investigated and held accountable. Andrea Prasow, Deputy Washington Director at Human Rights Watch, stated, This resolution sends an important message to the Nigerian people that the US Congress stands with them, and to the Nigerian government that Congress is watching. Nigerian leaders should heed the calls from governments and civil society around the world to affirm and protect the right to peaceful protest, and support an independent investigation into the use of deadly force against protesters. Ayisha Osori, Executive Director of the Open Society Initiative for West Africa, said, We welcome the intervention of the U.S. Congress in support of the #EndSARS Movement and the call to end police brutality and state-sanctioned abuse of human rights in Nigeria. Now more than ever, as the coronavirus pandemic has reminded us of how connected the world is, we need the collective voice of advocates speaking up in defense of justice and freedoms everywhere. For as Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. famously said, An injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.' Congressman Green's resolution shines a powerful spotlight on the decline of free expression in Nigeria while re-committing the United States to upholding the right to assembly as a cornerstone of democratic societies,"" said Thomas O. Melia, Washington Director at PEN America. October's violence against protestors in Lagos and the subsequent threat of a nationwide internet shutdown constitute low points in the Nigerian government's crackdown on speech and dissent. It is critical that the United States speak out against these injustices and hold the Nigerian government to account. Bravo, Representative Al Green! ### This resolution has been endorsed by the following human rights organizations: Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch, Open Society Initiative for West Africa, and PEN America.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://gonzalez.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-gonzalez-calls-mexican-president-recognize-president-elect-biden,Congressman Gonzalez Calls on Mexican President to Recognize President-Elect Biden and U.S. Election Results,2020-11-12,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,TX,Vicente Gonzalez,G000581,gonzalez.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Today, Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) released the following statement in response to Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez-Obrador's continued refusal to recognize the U.S. election results and President-Elect Joe Biden. Offering congratulations to President-Elect Biden and Vice President-Elect Harris is not being a wimp' or a colony',said Congressman Gonzalez. It's the right thing to do.President Lopez-Obrador's refusal to acknowledge the results of this election and extend a hand to the incoming administration until all litigation is over clearly signals his support for President Trump. The Mexican President's statements undermine bilateral relations and give credenceto the Trump Administration's baseless attacks on an election that international observers have deemed free and fair. American voters have spoken. State election officials have found no evidence of major fraud. It's time for President Lopez-Obrador to accept that and begin working with President-Elect Biden. El congresista Gonzalez pide al presidente mexicano que reconozca al presidente-electo Biden y los resultado de las elecciones estadounidenses Washington, DC - Hoy, el congresista Vicente Gonzalez ( TX-15) dio esta declaracin en respuesta al presidente mexicano Andrs Manuel Lpez-Obrador quien se resa a reconocer los resultados de las elecciones en Estados Unidos y al presidente-electo Joe Biden. Ofrecer felicitaciones al presidente- electo Biden y a la vice- presidenta- electa Harris no es ser endeble o una colonia, dijo el congresista Gonzalez. Es lo correcto. La denegacin del presidente Lpez-Obrador en aceptar los resultados de esta eleccin y extender una mano a la administracin entrante hasta que toda litigacin concluya claramente seala que el apoya al presidente Trump. Las declaraciones del presidente mexicano socavan las relaciones bilateralesy dan crdito a los ataques sin causa de la administracin de Trump en base a la eleccin que observadores internacionales han determinado fueron libres y justas. Los votantes americanos han hablado. Oficiales electorales a nivel estatalno han encontrado evidencia de fraude. Es hora que el presidente Lpez-Obrador lo acepte y comience a trabajar con el presidente-electo Biden.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://ebjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-johnson-congratulates-president-elect-joe-biden-and-vice,Congresswoman Johnson Congratulates President-Elect Joe Biden and Vice President-Elect Kamala Harris on their Historic Victory in the 2020 U.S. Presidential Election,2020-11-08,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,TX,Eddie Johnson,J000126,ebjohnson.house.gov,,,legacy,"I extend my warmest congratulations to the 46th President-Elect Joe Biden and Vice President-Elect Kamala Harris on their historic victory in the 2020 U.S. Presidential Election. I am especially proud of Vice President-Elect Kamala Harris for being the first woman and the first multi-racial woman to hold this office. It is an honor to serve with her in the Congressional Black Caucus and a privilege to share a sisterhood in Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated and The Links, Incorporated. As our Nation faces multiple conflicts, I urge all Americans, regardless of party affiliation, to support our president-elect during the transfer of power. We remain positive and hopeful for swift consideration and confirmation of his cabinet. We have so much catching up to do for the American people and now we have a clear path to move our country forward. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=405895,Rep. Cuellars Statement on the Election of President-Elect Joe Biden and Vice President-Elect Kamala Harris,2020-11-07,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,TX,Henry Cuellar,C001063,cuellar.house.gov,,,legacy,"Rep. Cuellar's Statement on the Election of President-Elect Joe Biden and Vice President-Elect Kamala Harris Washington | Charlotte Laracy, DC Press Secretary (202-226-1583); Alexis Torres, District Press Secretary (956-286-6007), November 7, 2020 Washington, D.C. Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) released the following statement on the historic election of Joe Biden and Kamala Harris: Congratulations to President-elect Joe Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris on winning this hard-fought race! With the election now over, we shall now put hostility and anger aside and work to heal this nation. We need to come together, not as Democrats or Republicans, but as Americans. In a Biden administration, we will restore civility, decency, and compassion within the office. In a Biden administration, we will defeat this virus and build back our economy. In a Biden administration, we will protect and expand the Affordable Care Act to make sure everyone has access to quality health care. In a Biden administration, we will implement strong and smart border security that does not include an ineffective and wasteful border wall. Together, we will fight for the American people. Let's get to work.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://doggett.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/monday-press-conference-start-open-enrollment-getting-central-texans,MONDAY: Press Conference on Start of Open Enrollment - Getting Central Texans Covered Amid Pandemic & Uninsured Crisis,2020-11-06,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,TX,Lloyd Doggett,D000399,doggett.house.gov,,,legacy,"***Media Advisory*** FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November6, 2020 Contact:Kate Stotesbery(Doggett) 202-494-4620 MONDAY: Press Conference on Start of Open Enrollment - Getting Central Texans Covered Amid Pandemic & Uninsured Crisis Austin, T.X. As Central Texas COVID-19 infections rise and the uninsured crisis deepens with continued unemployment, community leaders join together to promote Open Enrollment, when families can sign up to get Affordable Care Act (ACA) coverage. Despite attempts to eliminate the ACA and strip away protections for people with pre-existing conditions, it remains the law of the landand so the health care marketplace is still available for those seeking insurance coverage for 2021. Open Enrollment lasts through December 15. To get the word outin both English and Spanishabout how people can get covered right now, Congressman Doggett will hold a virtual press conference this Monday, November 9 at 11:30 AM CST with Foundation Communities, Health Alliance for Austin Musicians (HAAM), Austin Mayor Steve Adler, and Councilmember Greg Casar. What:Press conference via Zoom to equip Central Texans to enroll in ACA coverage during the open enrollment period and share free local resources so people can get covered now. When:Monday, November 9, 2020, 11:30 AM CST Who:Health Subcommittee Chairman Lloyd Doggett (D-TX) Austin Mayor Steve Adler Foundation Communities Executive Director Walter Moreau Health Alliance for Austin Musicians (HAAM) client Lesly Reynaga Austin Council Member Greg Casar, who will deliver remarks in Spanish Where:Press conference will be held via Zoom; register here ASAP to get the link to join. Send any questions on registration to Kate Stotesbery in advance to ensure you are confirmed. Follow Congressman Doggett Facebook:https://www.Facebook.com/RepLloydDoggett | Twitter: @RepLloydDoggett| Instagram: @RepLloydDoggett",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=405896,Rep. Cuellars Statement on the Beginning of the 2021 Open Enrollment Period,2020-11-01,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,TX,Henry Cuellar,C001063,cuellar.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.-- Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) released the following statement today on the first day of the 2021 open enrollment period, which continues through December 15: For over ten years, I have remained steadfast for the health and financial security of hard-working families by voting for and working to strengthen the Affordable Care Act,said Congressman Cuellar.As our nation continues to face the coronavirus crisis, there has been continued effort to eliminate the lifesaving protections of the ACA poses a devastating threat to the people of Texas and all Americans.At this time of uncertainty, I will continue to fight for every American to ensure they receive the critical medical care that they and their families need to stay healthy and safe. ""Today marks the beginning of the 2021 open enrollment period in the United States. I encourage all South Texans to research plans and find one that works best for them and their family. In addition, I advise families with current health insurance plans to check the rates and coverage of their plan to ensure it is still the best fit for them. In Texas, open enrollment for 2021 health planswill run from November 1 through December 15, 2020. During open enrollment, consumers can enroll in ACA-compliant coveragethrough an exchange or off-exchangeand with the help of agents and brokers. Learn more about open enrollment in 2021 here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=405897,"Rep. Cuellar Delivers $549,948 to the Rio Grande Valley",2020-10-29,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,TX,Henry Cuellar,C001063,cuellar.house.gov,,,legacy,"La Joya, TXCongressman Henry Cuellar delivered two grants, totaling $549,948, that will greatly benefit the residents of the Rio Grande Valley. Specifically, Congressman Cuellar announced $499,948 in federal funds to the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) and their work to establish and expand services for victims and survivors of sexual assault. In addition, Congressman Cuellar announced $50,000 in federal funds to the City of La Joya, through USDA's Rural Business Development Grant program, which will be used to generate statistical data of the size of its economy and identify opportunities for future economic development. UTRGV UTRGV received $499,948 in federal funds from the Department of Justice's Expanding SANE Services to Victims of Sexual Assault on Campus. With these funds, The South Texas Forensic Nurse Project (STFNP) will establish a program at UTRGV that will permit on-campus access to Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANEs). The effort is a collaboration between UTRGV's campus-based advocacy office (Office for Victim Advocacy & Violence Prevention or OVAVP), Student Health, the School of Nursing, and other campus and community partners. This program will increase the number of certified SANEs in the Rio Grande Valley and ensure adequate staffing to address events on campus. By increasing certified SANEs, the UTRGV campus will be able provide comprehensive advocacy for victims and survivors on campus. In addition, this initiative will promote forensic nursing as a viable career path for future nurses. Survivors of sexual violence are among the most isolated and vulnerable, said Congressman Cuellar. This SANE funding will allow UTRGV to create a number of highly-skilled registered nurses to care for students who are victims of sexual assault and help hold offenders accountable. I would like to thank UTRGV President Dr. Guy Bailey as well as the rest of his staff for creating a strong support system for students as they complete their college degree. La Joya La Joya will use this funding to conduct research on the economic landscape of the city. Specifically, this research will help identify to how much economic activity is generated in the community and how much economic activity is leaving the community. Based on the research, the City will work to identify the best strategies to stimulate economic activity and recruit new businesses to the city, primarily along the Interstate 2 corridor. With 3,985 residents in La Joya, this funding will help to bring new business to serve the area. With right resources, rural communities can be creative entrepreneurial centers where small businesses thrive, Congressman Cuellar continued. This funding will allow the City of La Joya to do research that will help them create strategies for enhancing economic development in the region. I would like to thank the City of La Joya, including Mayor Isidro Casanova, City Commissioners, and City Council members, and USDA Area Director Roel Gomez for their commitment to growing our community. Pictured:Rep. Cuellar Delivers $499,948 in federal funds to the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley;Rep. Cuellar Delivers $50,000 in federal funds to the City of La Joya",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://doggett.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/silencing-public-opinion-trump-sets-expired-deadline-participation,Silencing Public Opinion: Trump Sets Expired Deadline for Participation in Vaccine Hearing to Erode Consumer Protections,2020-10-29,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,TX,Lloyd Doggett,D000399,doggett.house.gov,,,legacy,"***For Immediate Release*** FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 29, 2020 Contact:Kate Stotesbery 202-494-4620 Silencing Public Opinion: Trump Sets Expired Deadline for Participation in Vaccine Hearing to Erode Consumer Protections Washington, D.C. Today, U.S. Representative Lloyd Doggett (D-TX), Chairman of the House Ways & Means Health Subcommittee, issued a statement after the Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) published a notice in the Federal Register for a hearing concerning proposed revisions to the Vaccine Injury Compensation Program. Despite being published on October 29, the notice contains an October 26 deadline for the public to register to participate in the hearing. Chairman Doggett offered the following comment: So interested in shutting down public participation, Trump sets a deadline to reply before notice is even given. He works to bury his wrongdoing from the public light. This proposal would remove important consumer protections that ensure any patients who, unfortunately, suffer from rare side effects after vaccination are appropriately compensated. Ignoring scientists and health professionals yet again, Trump seeks to remove two injuries from the program, despite unanimous opposition by the Advisory Commission on Childhood Vaccines. With this late hearing notice, Trump now ignores the public's opposition to the proposal. You can view the notice here. ### Follow Congressman Doggett Facebook:https://www.Facebook.com/RepLloydDoggett | Twitter: @RepLloydDoggett| Instagram: @RepLloydDoggett",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://ebjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-johnson-s-american-academy-of-nursing-induction-to-be,Congresswoman Johnsons American Academy of Nursing Induction to be Streamed Live,2020-10-29,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,TX,Eddie Johnson,J000126,ebjohnson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC On Saturday, October 31, 2020, Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson will be inducted as a prestigious Fellow of the American Academy of Nursing (AAN). This year's 2020 Class includes 230 Nurse Leaders from four continents - Africa, The Americas (Canada and the United States), Asia, and Europe. Also being honored as an Honorary Fellow will be Immunologist, Dr. Anthony Fauci, who is head of the National Institutes of Health's Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID). AAN will recognize these esteemed health professionals for their significant contributions to health and the delivery of health care at the Academy's annual Transforming Health, Driving Policy Conference. In accordance with national CDC guidelines for social distancing, The American Academy of Nursing's Induction Ceremony, will take place virtually. This is a free event which does not require registration. You can live stream this Saturday, October 31 from 4:30 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. CDT here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4TsGFy9EYoPxhNU3FsnA0Q The American Academy of Nursing serves the public and the nursing profession by advancing health policy and practice through the generation, synthesis, and dissemination of nursing knowledge. More than 2,700 distinguished fellows are the nursing profession's most accomplished leaders in education, management, practice, and research. They have been recognized for their extraordinary contributions to nursing and health care. For more information, visit: https://www.aannet.org/2020 ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://algreen.house.gov/press-release/reps-al-green-and-sylvia-garcia-tout-victories-oversight-usps-houston,Reps. Al Green and Sylvia Garcia Tout Victories in Oversight of USPS in Houston,2020-10-28,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,TX,Al Green,G000553,algreen.house.gov,,,legacy,"HOUSTON, TX Congressman Al Green (TX-09) and Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia (TX-29) have been conducting critical oversight of the North Houston Distribution and Processing Center, the largest such facility in the country. They have worked to address community concerns about delays in mail. Many Americans feared mail delays would affect the processing of mail-in ballots in this election, as well as the delivery of prescription drugs, merchandise, and Social Security checks. Throughout this process, the Members advocated to ensure that any blue mailboxes that had been removed from the Houston region were put back in place and that older sorting machines that had been removed were in fact replaced with a new universal sorting machine that could handle the influx of mail-in ballots during the general election. They also coordinated with the League of Women Voters to ensure that post offices in the Houston region made non-partisan, voter registration cards readily available to customers ahead of the voter registration deadline earlier in October. The United States Postal Service is a pivotal part of our democracy. This is why Congressman Green and I have worked closely together to address the concerns of our constituents. We got some big wins for our community to ensure voters can feel certain their vote would count if they vote by mail said Congresswoman Garcia. We also worked with the North Houston Distribution and Processing Center to demand transparency and secure the best possible service for the many seniors, veterans, and working families who rely on the post office for prescription drugs, unemployment benefits, or Social Security checks. We will continue to monitor this situation and will take additional steps as needed on behalf of our community. Congressman Green added,I am proud to have worked in tandem with Congresswoman Garcia to attain this victory for our constituents, who expect a certain level of dependability from the Postal Service. While we addressed complaints of mail delays with urgency largely due to an influx of mail-in ballots, our congressional oversight was of equal importance for patients receiving medications by mail, businesses who engage in commerce by mail, and families who send packages to military servicemembers by mail. The ultimate victory will be in having the mail delivered expeditiously not only for the duration of this election butalso thereafter. Congresswoman Garcia and Congressman Green will continue monitoring this situation on behalf of their constituents. Should there be any additional concerns about delays in service from the USPS, the Members are ready to help. Congresswoman Garcia's office can be reached at 832-325-3150. Congressman Green's office can be reached at 713-383-9234.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://ebjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-johnson-to-be-inducted-as-fellow-to-american-academy-of,Congresswoman Johnson to be Inducted as Fellow to American Academy of Nursing,2020-10-28,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,TX,Eddie Johnson,J000126,ebjohnson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC On Saturday, October 31, 2020, Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson will be inducted as a Fellow to the American Academy of Nursing. The inductees of the 2020 Class of 230 Nurse Leaders will be recognized for their significant contributions to health and health care at the Academy's annual Transforming Health, Driving Policy Conference, which will take place virtually on October 29-31, 2020. ""In the past months, our fellow nurses have worked tirelessly and with great sacrifices on the front lines of direct patient care during this pandemic. I am so honored to be recognized alongside many champions of the nursing community as a 2020 Fellow Inductee to the American Academy of Nursing, said Congresswoman Johnson. While some of us are no longer at bedside, which is my first passion, we are all making strides towards substantial change. As a federal legislator, I stand firm with the Academy's commitment to achieving meaningful policy changes that impact vulnerable populations and those whose voices would otherwise not be heard. The American Academy of Nursing serves the public and the nursing profession by advancing health policy and practice through the generation, synthesis, and dissemination of nursing knowledge. More than 2,700 distinguished fellows are the nursing profession's most accomplished leaders in education, management, practice, and research. They have been recognized for their extraordinary contributions to nursing and health care. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=405898,"Rep. Cuellar Helps Deliver $398,096 to University of Texas San Antonio",2020-10-27,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,TX,Henry Cuellar,C001063,cuellar.house.gov,,,legacy,"San Antonio, TXCongressman Henry Cuellar helped deliver two grants, totaling $398,096, to University of Texas San Antonio. Congressman Cuellar announced $84,000 in federal funds through USDA's Rural Business Development Grant program for workforce development, business development and job creation in the region. In addition, Congressman Cuellar announced $314,096 in federal funding through the U.S. Department of Education's Child Care Access Means Parents in School program. These funds will be used to provide campus-based childcare services to children of low-income undergraduate and graduate students enrolled in postsecondary education. We must address the current needs of working families by supporting them with services such as child care and workforce development, said Congressman Cuellar. These critical federal investments will help increase access to on-campus child care for student parents as well as provide training, technical assistance, and other development opportunities ensuring family businesses prosper and grow. As a senior member of the Appropriations Committee, I am committed to fighting for more opportunities for students and working families so they can get ahead. I would like to thank UTSA President Taylor Eighmy and the rest of his faculty and staff for their commitment in providing students with the necessary aid and support needed to successfully reach the goal of graduating with a college degree. Child Care Access Means Parents in School Program Funding will support the Aim High Child Care Scholarship at UTSA, a need-based scholarship program that will provide campus-based childcare services to over 80 children of low-income undergraduate and graduate students. The goal of the project is to reduce the out-of-pocket expense student parents pay for childcare, help student parents focus on studies, and empower them as their child's first teacher through parent engagement UTSA has been selected to receive $314,096 over a five-year period. This grant will be in the amount of $78,524 for the first budgetary period ranging from Oct. 1, 2020 to Sept. 30, 2021. Rural Business Development Grant UTSA will use this to funding to provide communities with education focused on retail trends in a COVID-19 world, real estate 101, downtown strategies, retail incentives and redevelopment through an online portal managed by Retail Strategies, called Thinkifc. Retail Strategies will provide individual community analysis to provide proven strategies and tools to attract retail businesses into the community. UTSA's Institute for Economic Development and the South West Texas Border Small Business Development Center will be working together to provide this technical assistance. Pictured:Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) pictured with Lupe Valdez, USDA Area Director; Albert Carrisalez, UTSA Assistant Vice President for Government Relations and Policy; Al Salgado, Assistant Vice President for Small Business and Community Engagement for UTSA's Institute for Economic Development; and Dr. Margo DelliCarpini, UTSA Dean for the College of Education and Human Development.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://algreen.house.gov/press-release/congressman-al-green-endsars-%E2%80%9Cblack-lives-matter-wherever-they-may-be%E2%80%9D,"Congressman Al Green on #EndSARS, Black Lives Matter Wherever They May Be.",2020-10-27,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,TX,Al Green,G000553,algreen.house.gov,,,legacy,"(Houston, TX) On Tuesday, October 27, 2020, Congressman Al Green released the following statement in support of the #EndSARS peaceful protest movement: I am deeply troubled by reports that describe a shocking and seemingly unwarranted crackdown on peaceful protesters by Nigeria's Special Anti-Robbery Squad, commonly known as SARS. The policing tactics of some SARS officers have been protested in Nigeria and abroad after reports of wrongful killings of many innocent persons on October 20, 2020, at the Lekki Tollgate in Lagos, Nigeria, Congressman Al Green stated. I have written to the Secretary of State Mike Pompeo as well as United Nations officials to express my support for peaceful protests, urging the Government of Nigeria to work toward comprehensive security reform. The Congressman, who represents Houston's International District, added, There are more than a million Nigerian migrants across the globe. With nearly 400,000 Nigerian immigrants and their children residing in the United States and the City of Houston having one of the largest Nigerian populations nationwide, we cannot relegate these injustices to being just a Nigerian problem. This is a matter of international concern, as Black lives matter wherever they may be.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=405900,Rep. Cuellar Delivers Critical Funding to Prevent Migrant Deaths along our Southwest Border,2020-10-26,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,TX,Henry Cuellar,C001063,cuellar.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. Since the fiscal year 2019, Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) has delivered over $7 million in federal funds to the Department of Homeland Security for rescue beacons. This technology saves the lives of immigrants who are lost or abandoned in the south Texas terrain. Rescue beacons are critical to preventing the loss of human life along the southwest border, said Congressman Cuellar. That's why, since 2019, I have worked hard to secure over $7 million in federal funding in the Homeland Security Appropriations that allow the U.S. Border Patrol's Missing Migrants Program to deploy rescue beacons across the southwest border. As the Vice Chair of the Homeland Security Subcommittee on Appropriations, I will continue to fight for additional funding for projects that ensure the health and safety of migrants who arrive at our southern border. I want to thank all the men and women in Border Patrol for their dedication to rescuing people in need on the southwest border. Human smugglers coyotes frequently abandon migrants in the harsh southwest border terrain.Oftentimes, they face life-threatening circumstances. They are miles away from shelter, food, and water; exposed to harsh terrain and drastic changes in temperature; and lack the means to receive help if they need it. When faced with these types of adversities, migrants have a high risk of becoming disoriented, dehydrated, and succumbing to the harsh environment before they can reach help. As a result, many perish along the border every year. To help notify U.S. Border Patrol when migrants are in distress and provide a general location of where they may be, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has placed rescue beacons and 911 rescue placards throughout parts of the southwest border, specifically the Rio Grande Valley, that are frequently traveled by migrants or have posed a threat to them in the past. The rescue beacons, when utilized or directly activated by a distressed subject, notifies Border Patrol Agents that there is an emergency in the immediate area. The informational placards provide migrants with emergency contact information in English and Spanish that they can use to contact emergency management services (e.g. 911) if needed. They also provide a general location that agents can use to begin their search for migrants, if necessary. The rescue beacons provide the capability for a migrant to call for medical assistance or rescue while automatically providing a location. Rescue beacons are self-contained, solar powered units placed in remote locations considered to be high risk for people in distress. Approximately 35 feet tall, each is equipped with a high visibility strobe light on top of the structure. Many of the towers utilize a camera system to determine an appropriate response and aid in the rescue effort. Currently, there are 14 rescue beacons deployed throughout the Rio Grande Valley Sector and there are plans to increase those numbers in the near future, according to U.S. Border Patrol. Read Congressman Cuellar's Appropriations language on rescue beacons here. Photo of a Rescue Beacon in the Laredo Sector. Image courtesy of Customs and Border Protection.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://gonzalez.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-gonzalez-leads-letter-president-trump-barriers-market-access-us,Congressman Gonzalez Leads Letter to President Trump on Barriers to Market Access for U.S. Energy Companies in Mexico,2020-10-23,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,TX,Vicente Gonzalez,G000581,gonzalez.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Today, Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) and Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) sent a bipartisan, bicameral letter to President Donald Trump to raise awareness about Mexico's efforts to undermine the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) and substantial U.S. investments in energy infrastructure on both sides of the border. It has been widely reported that the Mexican government is giving preferential regulatory treatment to Petrleos Mexicanos (PEMEX) to the detriment of U.S. operators. A recently leaked memo from the President of Mexico directs Mexican authorities to use all available resources within its regulatory framework to protect PEMEX and the Comisin Federal de Electricidad (CFE). In response, the bipartisan Members of Congress have called on the President to resolve this issue: These efforts violate and contradict the spirit, if not the letter, of the USMCA, an agreement among whose primary objectives are to promote growth among the participant countries. Therefore, we are deeply concerned that these actions demonstrate a pattern of obstruction and urge you to find a resolution with the Government of Mexico to keep the current market conditions that the Energy Reform regulatory framework provides, along with certainty and fairness for U.S. companies operating and competing in Mexico. In addition to Congressman Gonzalez and Senator Cornyn, the letter was signed by Senators Bill Cassidy (R-LA), Ted Cruz (R-TX), James M. Inhofe (R-OK), James Lankford (R-OK), and JohnKennedy(R-LA) and Representatives Filemon Vela (TX-34), WillHurd (TX-23), Robert E.Latta (OH-05), BruceWesterman (AR-4), JimCosta (CA-16), K. MichaelConaway (TX-11), DavidSchweikert (AZ-6), HenryCuellar (TX-28), XochitlTorres Small (NM-2), MichaelBurgess (TX-26), PeteOlson (TX-22), J. LuisCorrea (CA-46), MarcVeasey (TX-33),Kelly Armstrong (ND-AL),Garret Graves (LA-6), RandyWeber (TX-14), RogerWilliams (TX-25), KenCalvert (CA-42), BrianBabin (TX-36), VeronicaEscobar (TX-16), Carol D.Miller (WV-3),ChipRoy (TX-21), LizzieFletcher (TX-7), KevinHern (OK-1), KendraHorn (OK-5), JeffDuncan (SC-3), GuyReschenthaler (PA-14), JodeyArrington (TX-19), Kevin McCarthy (CA-23), SteveScalise (LA-1), JackieWalorski (IN-2), MichaelCloud (TX-27), Bill Flores (TX-17),EddieBernice Johnson (TX-30), Colin Allred (TX-32), and Lance Gooden (TX-5). The letter can be found here and below. ### Dear Mr. President, We write today to bring to your attention concerning actions by the Government of Mexico that threaten U.S. energy companies' investment and market access and undermine the spirit of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). As you know, Mexico is the largest export market for U.S. petroleum products and is a growing market for natural gas exports. In fact, U.S. exports of refined products to Mexico have tripled over the past decade. An integrated North American energy market benefits U.S. fuel manufacturers, workers, and ultimately Mexican consumers. Following Mexico's 2014 constitutional reforms allowing private participation in the Mexican energy sector, U.S. companies invested billions of dollars to develop energy infrastructure in Mexico and in the United States to import fuel from our refineries to satisfy Mexican demand. These investments resulted in positive factors, such as infrastructure development and employment generation on both sides of the border. Despite this progress, recent reports indicate that the Mexican government is providing preferential regulatory treatment for Petrleos Mexicanos (PEMEX) and delaying or cancelling outright permits for U.S. energy companies. These anecdotal experiences have recently been given additional credence by a leaked memo from the President of Mexico, Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, directing Mexican authorities to use all available resources within the regulatory framework to protect PEMEX and the Comisin Federal de Electricidad (CFE). Additionally, members of the governing party, MORENA, have presented constitutional initiatives that would roll back the historic 2014 Energy Reform and seek to relinquish all contracts currently in force. These efforts violate and contradict the spirit, if not the letter, of the USMCA, an agreement among whose primary objectives are to promote growth among the participant countries. Therefore, we are deeply concerned that these actions demonstrate a pattern of obstruction and urge you to find a resolution with the Government of Mexico to keep the current market conditions that the EnergyReform regulatory framework provides, along with certainty and fairness for U.S. companies operating and competing in Mexico. We appreciate your consideration of this request. Sincerely, /S/",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://gonzalez.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-gonzalez-joins-letter-support-postal-workers-delivering-millions,Congressman Gonzalez Joins Letter of Support for Postal Workers Delivering Millions of Ballots by Mail Throughout United States,2020-10-22,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,TX,Vicente Gonzalez,G000581,gonzalez.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON - Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) joined a Congressional effort to support postal workers and the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) during the coronavirus public health crisis. The move comes at a time when letter carriers must handle a record-setting amount of mail-in election ballots despite efforts to undermine their effectiveness from President Trump and Postmaster General Louis DeJoy. Congressman Gonzalez and the Members of Congress wrote the letter to express theirpublic show of support to the presidents of the American Postal Workers Union, National Association of Letter Carriers, National Postal Mail Handlers Union, and National Rural Letter Carriers' Association. The letter stated that the members of Congress wanted to ensure that postal workers know that they have our support to do everything in their power to protect the sanctity of the postal service, especially in a time such as the present. The Members also outlined the lack of support from government officials and said that many reports over the last two months go into detail about Postmaster General Louis DeJoy actively sabotaging the USPS. Most shocking of all, President Donald Trump himself confirmed that these actions are intended to silence those who choose to vote by mail during a pandemic. While DeJoy has suspended further changes to USPS policies, he has yet to reverse any of the damaging policies he has already put in place. The letter was co-signed by 19other Members of Congress. The full letter can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://doggett.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/no-plan-no-help-vulnerable-statement-secretary-carson-s-election-eve,"No Plan, No Help for the Vulnerable: Statement on Secretary Carsons Election-Eve Austin Roundtable on Homelessness",2020-10-21,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,TX,Lloyd Doggett,D000399,doggett.house.gov,,,legacy,"***For Immediate Release*** FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 21, 2020 Contact:Kate Stotesbery 202-494-4620 No Plan, No Help for the Vulnerable: Statement on Secretary Carson's Election-Eve Austin Roundtable on Homelessness Austin, T.X. U.S. Representative Lloyd Doggett (D-TX) just released the following statement regarding Secretary Carson's visit to downtown Austin today and his roundtable, which was light on solutions and heavy on rhetoric: The Secretary revealed that, just as with COVID, health care, and most every other issue, President Trump has no plan for those experiencing homelessnessonly platitudes and criticism of others. And, like Trump, too many Republican officials view homelessness as a wedge issue to divide our community instead of uniting us behind practical solutions to help the most vulnerable. ### Follow Congressman Doggett Facebook:https://www.Facebook.com/RepLloydDoggett | Twitter: @RepLloydDoggett| Instagram: @RepLloydDoggett",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=405875,"Rep. Cuellar Announces Over $18,825 in Federal Funds to Purchase Police Body-Worn Cameras for Missions Police Department",2020-10-20,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,TX,Henry Cuellar,C001063,cuellar.house.gov,,,legacy,"Mission, TXCongressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) announced $18,825 in federal funds to purchase 30 police body-worn cameras for Mission's Police Department. These funds, awarded through the Department of Justice's Body-Worn Camera Policy and Implementation Program to Support Law Enforcement Agencies initiative, will work to improve public safety, reduce crime, and strengthen public trust between police and the residents they serve. It's critical our police officers have the necessary resources to protect lives and improve police-community relations in our community, said Congressman Cuellar. These funds will allow the Department to purchase additional body-worn cameras in order to enhance transparency, promote accountability and advance public safety for law enforcement officers and our city. As a member of the Appropriations Committee, I will continue to fund programs that support our law enforcement and protect our community. I would like to thank the City of Mission, including Mayor Armando O'Caa, City Council, and Chief of Police Robert Dominguez, for their commitment to improving officer and community safety as well as increasing mutual trust. Funds will be used to purchase an additional 30 body-worn cameras to outfit Mission Police Officers. Law enforcement agencies across the United States are seeing the benefits of body-worn cameras. Bodycams provide evidence for legal procedures; law enforcementtraining opportunitiesbased on the analysis of the captured video; and enhancedsafety of, and improved interactions between, both police officers and the public.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=405876,Rep. Cuellar Statement on Agreement Between United States and Mexico on 1944 Water Treaty,2020-10-19,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,TX,Henry Cuellar,C001063,cuellar.house.gov,,,legacy,"Laredo, TX-- Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) released the following statement regarding an agreement between the United States and Mexico on the 1944 Water Treaty. Mexico will transfer the remaining water owed to the U.S. for this cycle on Friday, October 23, avoiding any deficit. I am pleased that an agreement between the United States and Mexico has been reached in accordance with our bilateral 1944 Water Treaty.The Mexican-controlled waters of the international Rio Grande Basin are critical to ensuring that water right holders, in South Texas, can irrigate crops, supply water to municipalities, and conduct industrial operations. That's why, on September 29th, I sent a letter to U.S. Secretary of State Pompeo and Mexican Secretary of Foreign Affairs, Marcelo Ebrard, regarding this issue. Earlier this month, I also had the opportunity to meet personally with Secretary Ebrard, in Mexico, and have discussed the issue at great length with Mexican Ambassador to the U.S., Martha Brcena to emphasize the importance of obligations being met to continue the strong partnership between our neighboring communities. I want to thank both sides for working with me on this issueand look forward to its enactment. Read Congressman Cuellar's letter to U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Mexican Secretary of Foreign Affairs Marcelo Ebrard here. In the picture:Congressman Henry Cuellar meets with Mexican Secretary of Foreign Affairs Marcelo Ebrard in Mexico City",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=405878,Rep. Cuellar on DHS Extension of Non-Essential Travel Restrictions to November 21st,2020-10-19,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,TX,Henry Cuellar,C001063,cuellar.house.gov,,,legacy,"Laredo, TXCongressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) released the following statement regarding the Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) decision to extend the limitation of non-essential travel at land ports of entry on the U.S.-Mexico border through November 21st. Though I would have preferred that the Department of Homeland Security partially ease the restrictions on non-essential travel on October 21st, I am grateful to see that for the first time, DHS is now working closely with Mexico and Canada to identify safe criteria to ease the restrictions in the future and support our border communities. I thank Acting Secretary Chad Wolf, CBP Commissioner Mark Morgan and their team for recognizing the dynamics at the border. I am encouraged that DHS is currently working in partnership with local governments along the border to establish and implement a community-based program to partially ease COVID-19 travel restrictions for non-essential travelers at land ports of entry. We are working with DHS to develop a plan that balances the health of the individuals and the health of the border economy. I am hopeful that DHS will continue to engage with us so we can develop a community-backed strategy that focuses on our shared interest in protecting the lives and livelihoods of border communities. On October 6, Congressman Cuellar sent a letter to Acting DHS Secretary Chad Wolf, urging the Department to establish and implement a community-based program to partially ease COVID-19 travel restrictions for non-essential travelers at land ports of entry. Congressman Cuellar has held press conferences and roundtables with local officials throughout South Texas to discuss his proposal to the DHS, which would allow DHS officials to work with border leads and health officials from the CDC so that healthy travelers would be able to cross. Since March 21, the Department of Homeland Security has implemented nonessential travel' restrictions on the United States and Mexico border. The border closure terms only apply to land crossings, as flights between the United States and Mexico have largely continued since the early days of the pandemic.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://ebjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-johnson-s-national-suicide-hotline-designation-act-0,Congresswoman Johnsons National Suicide Hotline Designation Act Signed into Law,2020-10-18,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,TX,Eddie Johnson,J000126,ebjohnson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC Yesterday, Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson's National Suicide Hotline Designation Act was signed into law by President Donald J. Trump. Congresswoman Johnson introduced this legislation in the House of Representatives with Representatives Chris Stewart (UT-02), Seth Moulton (MA-06), and Greg Gianforte (MT-AL). The National Suicide Hotline Designation Act directs the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to designate 9-8-8 as the national suicide prevention and mental health crisis hotline system. The system will include the Veterans Crisis Line to specifically support veterans seeking mental health support. Additionally, the bill authorizes states to collect a fee dedicated solely to supporting local crisis call centers that are affiliated within the national network for enhancements of such services. As a former chief psychiatric nurse, I am so pleased that we are able to finally designate 9-8-8 as the dialing code for the National Suicide Prevention Hotline, making this critical resource much more accessible during times of mental health crisis. This is especially timely, as many of our communities have been struggling with mental health distress during this COVID-19 pandemic,said Congresswoman Johnson. The National Suicide Hotline Designation Act becoming law yesterday follows Congresswoman Johnson's previous effort, The National Suicide Improvement Act, which was signed into law in August of 2018. That law directed the FCC and SAMHSA to study the feasibility of a 3-digit dialing code for the national suicide prevention and mental health crisis hotline. The FCC publicly released their report in August 2019, finding that designating a 3-digit code dedicated solely for the purpose of a national suicide prevention and mental health hotline would likely make it easier for Americans in crisis to access lifesaving resources. It was in that report that the FCC recommended 9-8-8 as the best 3-digit code to be used for this purpose, thus setting the framework for Congresswoman Johnson's National Suicide Hotline Designation Act. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=405872,RIO GRANDE GUARDIAN: This Is a War: Cross-Border Fight Over Water Erupts in Mexico,2020-10-16,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,TX,Henry Cuellar,C001063,cuellar.house.gov,,,legacy,"Farmers in Mexico ambushed soldiers and seized a dam to stop water payments to the United States, in a sign of growing conflict over increasingly scarce resources, theNew York Timesis reporting. A story penned by reporter Natalie Kitroeff quotes Sonny Hinojosa, general manager of Hidalgo County Irrigation District No. 2. It's just not going to happen, unless a storm develops and helps Mexico, which is normally what they count on, Hinojosa said. They gamble and hope that a storm or mother nature will bail them out. The story starts: BOQUILLA, Mexico The farmers armed themselves with sticks, rocks and homemade shields, ambushed hundreds of soldiers guarding a dam and seized control of one of the border region's most important bodies of water. The Mexican government was sending water their water to Texas, leaving them next to nothing for their thirsty crops, the farmers said. So they took over the dam and have refused to allow any of the water to flow to the United States for more than a month. This is a war, said Victor Velderrain, a grower who helped lead the takeover, to survive, to continue working, to feed my family. The standoff is the culmination of longstanding tensions over water between the United States and Mexico that have recently exploded into violence, pitting Mexican farmers against their own president and the global superpower next door. Negotiating the exchange of water between the two countries has long been strained, but rising temperatures and long droughts have made the shared rivers along the border more valuable than ever, intensifying the stakes for both nations. The dam's takeover is a stark example of how far people are willing to go to defend livelihoods threatened by climate change and of the kind of conflict that may become more common with increasingly extreme weather. Editor's Note: Clickhereto read the full story by reporter Natalie Kitroeff in The New York Times. Editor's Note: The main image accompanying the above story shows low water levels near La Boquilla Dam. Photo credit: Daniel Berehulak for The New York Times. Cuellar: Mexico says it will repay its water debt by Oct. 24 Mexico's Agriculture Secretary Vctor Manuel Villalobos Armbula with U.S. Rep. Henry Cuellar. RIO GRANDE CITY, Texas In an interview with theRio Grande GuardianandRon Whitlock Reports, U.S. Rep. Henry Cuellar says he has been told Mexico will pay its water debt to the United States. Cuellar said he has met with Mexican Foreign Secretary Marcelo Luis Ebrard Casaubn and Mexico's Agriculture Secretary Vctor Manuel Villalobos Armbula. Under the 1944 treaty, Mexico owes the United States almost 345,600 acre-feet (426 million cubic meters) this year that must be paid by Oct. 24. This thing about Mexico getting behind every five years, I have seen that for years. One of the first times it was brought to my attention was when I was secretary of state and that was 19 years ago. And here we are talking about the same issues, Cuellar said. Look, I was in Mexico City last week and I did talk to the Mexican Embassy before I left and I talked in person with the person in charge of North America, from his office. They said their intention was to pay this back by October 24. I did see the plan, what they are trying to do, but they are saying they do want to go ahead and pay this. They have been in communication with the International Boundary and Water Commission. Cuellar said Mexico would like some help from the State of Texas but would not elaborate. They said they do need the help of the State of Texas on something. And again, without going into details, let's wait a little bit. I know what they are asking. But, their intent, just to summarize it, their intent, what they told me, is to try to get this paid up before Oct.. 24. For a link to the article, click here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=405879,Rep. Cuellar Delivers Over $2.2 Million to Floresville,2020-10-15,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,TX,Henry Cuellar,C001063,cuellar.house.gov,,,legacy,"Floresville, TXCongressman Henry Cuellar worked hard to deliver $2,238,100 in federal grants and loans to Floresville. Specifically, Congressman Cuellar announced a $2 million federal loan for Atascosa Health Center's new medical clinic in Floresville. The Congressman also announced $110,800 in federal funds to the Floresville Police Department for 3 new police vehicles and 17 new computer tablets as well as $127,300 in federal funds to the City of Floresville for six new utility trucks. Investing in rural America makes the rest of our country stronger, said Congressman Cuellar. These federal funds will make sure that critical health care and public safety services are in reach of every family in our community. As a senior member of the Agriculture Appropriations Subcommittee, I will continue to work hard to deliver funding for rural America because a brighter future for our country depends on the growth and prosperity of rural America. I would like to thank Monty Small, CEO of Atascosa Health Center, and the rest of his staff for their constant commitment in continued care for their patients. I also want to thank the City of Floresville, including Mayor Pro Tem Gloria Cantu, City Manager Henrietta Turner, City Council members, and Detective Gilbert Rodriguez, for their work in keeping our community safe. Atascosa Health Center Atascosa Health Center received a $2,000,000 through the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development's Community Facilities loan. The health center will use the funds to construct a medical, behavioral health, and dental clinic in Floresville to serve Wilson County. This project is in partnership with the Floresville Economic Development Corporation for the land donation. The facility will be located adjacent to the Frank M. Tejeda Texas State Veterans Home in Floresville. The new clinic will increase their primary health care, address identifiable health disparities, and improve the health and well-being of individuals, families, and the community. The services also include pharmacy care, family planning and obstetrics, immunizations, nutrition, chronic disease self-management patient education, and community health promotion and educational classes. Floresville's Police Department Through the USDA Rural Development's investment funds, Floresville's Police Department received $69,000 in FY19 federal funds to purchase 3 new police vehicles. The new vehicles will be fully equipped with updated equipment and accessories. The Police Department was also awarded $41,800 in federal funds to purchase 17 computer tablets in their vehicles. The vehicles and tablets will assist the officers in providing law enforcement services to the residents of the City of Floresville. The City will be providing $34,275 to this project, totaling $76,075. City of Floresville The City of Floresville, through the USDA Rural Development's investment funds, was awarded $127,300 to replace 6 utility trucks for the City due to high mileage and excessive repairs on the current vehicles. The trucks will enable the maintenance and operators of the Public Works Department to better serve the residents of Floresville. The City will be providing $104,293 for this project, totaling $231,593. USDA Rural Development offers loans, grants and loan guarantees to help create jobs and support economic development and essential services such as housing; health care; first responder services and equipment; and water, electric and communications infrastructure.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://algreen.house.gov/press-release/congressman-al-green-%E2%80%9Cnew-evidence-raises-more-questions-answers%E2%80%9D,Congressman Al Green: New Evidence Raises More Questions Than Answers,2020-10-14,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,TX,Al Green,G000553,algreen.house.gov,,,legacy,"(Missouri City, TX) On Wednesday, October 14, 2020, Congressman Al Green released the following statement, reiterating his call for justice for Joshua Johnson: 175 days ago, Harris County Sheriff's Deputy Tu Tran killed Joshua Johnson, Congressman Al Green stated at the site of Joshua Johnson's questionable shooting death on the morning of April 22, 2020. For nearly six months, I have worked with my constituents, Mr. and Mrs. Beary, to uncover the truth about what happened to their son and to determine whether there is probable cause for an arrest for Deputy Tran. Unfortunately, the new evidence we have discovered has raised more questions than answers. Congressman Green whose district includes the neighborhood where Joshua resided and was killed added, There are several issues that must be raised regarding the determination of whether this tragedy was a crime: How could an investigating officer present an accurate assessment of the facts to Mr. and Mrs. Beary near the scene within two hours after Joshua was killed, before having done a walkthrough; without talking to Deputy Tran; without the benefit of a camera recording; before the medical examiner examined Mr. Johnson's body; before an autopsy was performed; before a ballistics report was produced? How did a second bullet hit the garage of a neighbor across the street with no clear path from where Deputy Tran has indicated the shooting took place? Why did Deputy Tran leave the area immediately after shooting Joshua? Congressman Green continued, Each of these issues lead us to believe there is probable cause for arrest and indictment. The persistent ambiguity of the events surrounding Joshua's death is unacceptable. Joshua's loved ones and I have been unwavering in our pursuit of justice, and now, we believe a jury should decide the fate of this case.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://algreen.house.gov/press-release/congressman-al-green-encourages-voters-%E2%80%9Cdon%E2%80%99t-let-long-lines-turn-you-around%E2%80%9D,Congressman Al Green Encourages Voters Dont Let Long Lines Turn You Around,2020-10-13,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,TX,Al Green,G000553,algreen.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Al Green Encourages Voters Don't Let Long Lines Turn You Around Oct 13, 2020 (Houston, TX) On Tuesday, October 13, 2020, Congressman Al Green released the following statement: In the initial hours of the first day of early voting, I received several phone calls from my constituents about long lines at polling locations, said Congressman Al Green. It is our duty to assure eligible voters they can cast their ballots without undue delay. In the spirit of one time-honored refrain of the Civil Rights Movement, we can't let any adverse occurrences turn us around. Keep on marching. Keep on voting. We cannot stop now.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://doggett.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/dallas-morning-news-unemployed-texans-will-have-resume-proving-work,Dallas Morning News: Unemployed Texans will have to resume proving work searches beginning in November,2020-10-13,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,TX,Lloyd Doggett,D000399,doggett.house.gov,,,legacy,"AUSTIN -- The Texas Workforce Commission on Tuesday voted to reinstate work search requirements for people who are receiving unemployment insurance benefits from the state. The federally mandated requirements were suspended in March after COVID-19 hammered the Texas economy. But citing improving jobs numbers, the three-member commission said the requirements would return in November. The COVID-19 crisis has been difficult for everyone, creating new challenges for workers, employers and their families, Ed Serna, the commission's executive director said in a statement. Let me be clear: we are not over it. But we're seeing employment opportunities begin to bounce back in Texas as our economy restarts. There are opportunities out there and getting Texans back to work and businesses up and running again will create even more. Worker advocates said reinstating the work search requirement will only further strain the system that is still dealing with demand beyond its capacity. If the commission believes they have the available resources to handle reinstating this requirement, they should instead consider using it to reach the untold number Texans who sought benefits but fell through the cracks of our overburdened system,"" Jonathan Lewis a senior policy analyst for the Austin-based think tank, Every Texan, said in a statement. ""The more eligible Texans receiving these benefits, the better off Texas businesses and our economy will be as we begin to recover; work search will only lead to more out of work Texans without this critical financial benefit. Congressman Lloyd Doggett, a Democrat from Austin, was also critical of the decision. Families are caught in a two-pronged Republican attack: make it harder to vote and nearly impossible to get needed relief from a pandemic worsened by a White House and Governor's Mansion leadership vacuum, he said in a statement. Those struggling through no fault of their own need real help now, not politically-driven red tape. Texans on unemployment will be required to prove they are searching for jobs beginning Nov. 1. Those checks will be included in the payment requests unemployed Texans file with the state every two weeks. Out-of-work Texans in most parts of the state will be required to do three work searches per week, but some counties may have less. Furloughed workers who will return to their jobs within 12 weeks of their work stoppage are exempt from the work search requirement, the commission said in a news release. To meet the requirement, unemployed workers can sign up for the state's work search website www.WorkInTexas.com or registering as a job-seeker at a public workforce office in the state. They can also fill out applications, complete interviews or make-in person visits to would-be employers or stopping by at networking events. Since the pandemic hit Texas in March, the state has received 5.3 million unemployment applications. The latest numbers show the state still paying out insurance benefits to 1.6 million people. The state has sought to reinstate work search requirements since May, which was met by fierce resistance from worker advocates who said that would make it even more difficult for down-on-their-luck Texans to stay afloat in the middle of a pandemic. In June, with coronavirus cases increasing again, the agency postponed its decision to bring back the work search requirement.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://doggett.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/assuring-safety-access-affordability-taxpayer-funded-regeneron-antibody,"Assuring Safety, Access, & Affordability for Taxpayer-Funded Regeneron Antibody Treatment",2020-10-13,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,TX,Lloyd Doggett,D000399,doggett.house.gov,,,legacy,"***For Immediate Release*** FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 13, 2020 Contact:Kate Stotesbery 202-494-4620 Assuring Safety, Access, & Affordability for Taxpayer-Funded Regeneron Antibody Treatment Washington, D.C. U.S. Representative Lloyd Doggett (D-TX), Chair of the Ways and Means Health Subcommittee, pressed the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Operation Warp Speed leaders to clearly disclose details of and ensure the transparency, independent review, and affordable pricing for Regeneron's COVID-19 antibody treatmenta treatment that has received over $500 million dollars in American taxpayer investments and is now under intense focus after President Trump's treatment and praise. The guardrails against price-gouging on this treatment developed with taxpayer dollars, however, remain very opaque. Taxpayers deserve access to a treatment whose development they funded after it satisfies science-led safety standards, said Chairman Doggett. With the President's election-eve rush apparently personally intervening with the FDA, it is essential to guarantee strong guardrails to protect safety, access, and affordability. In his letter, he wrote: This week, President Trump announced that an emergency use authorization (EUA) is all set' and likened the treatment to a cure, though no evidence has been provided that this represents a cure and little concerning its therapeutic benefit. Reportedly, he has spoken directly with Commissioner Hahn to urge immediate authorization for this treatment. It is imperative that political pressure not lead to premature authorization. Chairman Doggett sought answers about the Emergency Use Authorization process; the manufacturing, distribution, and prioritization plans; and the research and development investments and pricing and procurement. You can read his full letter here or below: Dr. Stephen Hahn Commissioner Food and Drug Administration 10903 New Hampshire Ave. Silver Spring, MD 20993 Alex Azar Secretary Department of Health and Human Services 200 Independence Ave. SW Washington, DC 20201 Mark T. Esper Secretary Department of Defense 1400 Defense Pentagon Washington, DC 20301 Moncef Slaoui Chief Advisor Operation Warp Speed Department of Health and Human Services 200 Independence Ave. SW Washington, DC 20201 Dear Commissioner Hahn, Secretary Azar, Secretary Esper, and Mr. Slaoui, I write concerning the critical need for transparency, independent review, and affordable pricing for Regeneron's COVID-19 antibody treatmenta treatment that has received over $500 million dollars in American taxpayer investments. This week, President Trump announced that an emergency use authorization (EUA) is all set and likened the treatment to a cure, though no evidence has been provided that this represents a cure and little concerning its therapeutic benefit. Reportedly, he has spoken directly with Commissioner Hahn to urge immediate authorization for this treatment. It is imperative that political pressure not lead to premature authorization. The President has previously advocated for authorization of treatments, one of which, hydroxychloroquine, has since been revoked due to its dangerous, even deadly, impact on some patients. EUAs and regulatory approvals must be based on scientific evidence and subject to independent review. All clinical trial data should be made public prior to authorization and the safety and efficacy of the product must be of the utmost and sole concern. To ensure an open and evidence-based decision-making process, and transparency on the manufacturing, distribution, patient prioritization, and pricing plans for Regeneron's antibody treatment, I respectfully request the following information and answers: Emergency Use Authorization Process Will you commit to publicly releasing all clinical trial data, safety and efficacy data, and any accompanying analysis at least one week prior to issuing an emergency use authorization or full regulatory approval for Regeneron's COVID-19 antibody treatment? Please provide the safety and efficacy standards the FDA will require Regeneron to meet prior to issuing an EUA or full regulatory approval for its antibody treatment. Please provide any commitments or plans the FDA will require of Regeneron prior to issuing an EUA or full regulatory approval, including commitments to completing clinical trials, plans for monitoring patients who receive the treatment, or any other condition the FDA may place on the authorization or approval. Manufacturing, Distribution, and Prioritization Please provide the unredacted manufacturing agreements the federal government, or its subcontractors, has entered into with Regeneron for its COVID-19 antibody treatment. Please provide the unredacted distribution agreements the federal government, or its subcontractors, has entered into with any private company to distribute the Regeneron COVID-19 antibody treatment. Please provide a detailed description of storage and transport requirements for the Regeneron antibody treatment, including necessary supplies, storage temperatures, and expiration dates for doses. Please also provide a list of supplies already secured and any additional supplies needed to support anticipated doses. Please provide a detailed analysis on the current status of manufacturing capacity and any additional facilities that may be built, renovated, or retrofitted to manufacture the antibody treatment, as well as any companies that have received a license to manufacture the treatment. Please provide the formula that will be used to allocate doses. This information should specify whether doses will be sent to states or directly to health care providers, and the formula to determine how many doses each entity shall receive. Please include the data and reasoning used to make these determinations. Please provide any guidance states and/or health providers will receive regarding the prioritization of patients to receive the Regeneron antibody treatment, as well as the data and reasoning used to make this determination. Research and Development Investments and Pricing and Procurement Please the unredacted research and development funding agreements the federal government, or its subcontractors, has entered into with Regeneron for its COVID-19 antibody treatment. Will you commit to establishing a formula for determining a reasonable price for the Regeneron antibody treatment? If yes, please include a detailed summary of the formula, how the Secretary will enforce this reasonable price, and to what extent it accounts for taxpayer investments made in the research, development, and manufacturing and production of the drug. If no, please provide an explanation for not negotiating a reasonable price and an explanation for how the Secretary will protect taxpayer investments and equitable access with fair and reasonable pricing. Will you commit to providing the Regeneron antibody treatment to all patients for free, including the cost of the dose, its administration, and any associated office visits? Will you ensure that uninsured and underinsured individuals receive the same access and free-of-charge treatment? Please provide a detailed explanation of how you will ensure insured, uninsured, and underinsured individuals receive free and equal access to this treatment. Will you commit to providing the Regeneron antibody treatment free of charge to states and health care providers? If no, please provide an explanation for charging these entities as well as the estimated price per dose. Please also provide a detailed explanation of how you will ensure all patients, regardless of insurance status, still receive free access to the treatment even when their provider or state has been charged for it. Taxpayers have spent over half a billion dollars financing the research, development, and manufacturing of Regeneron's antibody treatment. They have assumed all of the risk in this endeavor, and in return, taxpayers should receive a safe, effective, and affordable product. Sincerely, Lloyd Doggett ### Follow Congressman Doggett Facebook:https://www.Facebook.com/RepLloydDoggett | Twitter: @RepLloydDoggett| Instagram: @RepLloydDoggett",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://ebjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-johnson-receives-a-perfect-legislative-score-from-the,Congresswoman Johnson Receives a Perfect Legislative Score from the Human Rights Campaign,2020-10-08,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,TX,Eddie Johnson,J000126,ebjohnson.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson received a perfect score from the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) - the nation's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) civil rights organization for supporting LGBTQ equality in the 116th Congress. Members of Congress were scored based on a range of key indicators of support from votes in the House to pass pro-equality legislation like the Equality Act to votes in the Senate to confirm anti-LGBTQ Trump-Pence cabinet officials and judicial nominees, as well as co-sponsorships in both chambers on pieces of legislation that significantly impact LGBTQ people and their families. I am deeply honored to receive a perfect score from the Human Rights Campaign today, as I have dedicatedmy legislative career to fighting against discrimination in all its forms, said Congresswoman Eddie BerniceJohnson. In recent years, ournation has made critical steps towards achieving equality. However, this work isnot done, and I am committed to supporting themembers of the LGBTQ community in my district and acrossAmerica. We must work towards eliminating any inequities anddisproportionate impacts, including in access tohealth care services and safe housing. The HRC Scorecard for the 116th Congress is available online atwww.hrc.org/scorecard. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://gonzalez.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-gonzalez-announces-29-million-idea-weslaco-public-school,Congressman Gonzalez Announces $2.9 Million for IDEA Public Schools,2020-10-08,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,TX,Vicente Gonzalez,G000581,gonzalez.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Today, Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) announced a $2,905,113 grant awarded by the U.S. Department of Education to IDEA Weslaco Public School through their Teacher Incentive Fund program. The grant will build and launch a talent management platform to increase the effectiveness, fairness, quality, and reliability of IDEA's evaluation, promotion and compensation processes for teachers. We must continue to improve teacher development practices and ensure that our students are receiving a high-quality education, said Congressman Gonzalez. This grant will help with teacher development and retention. It will also have a direct and positive impact on student achievement. I am proud to support education initiatives that will improve practices and the quality of education for both students and teachers. The proposed talent management platform will help teachers get better faster, increasing their ability to enable student success in established target benchmarks on the STAAR/EOC or Similar Internal Assessments. The project will also focus on teacher retention to increase students' access to effective educators in high-need schools. For more information on the Teacher Incentive Fund, click here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://gonzalez.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-gonzalez-introduces-bill-forgive-25000-student-loan-debt,"Congressman Gonzalez Introduces Bill to Forgive $25,000 in Student Loan Debt",2020-10-07,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,TX,Vicente Gonzalez,G000581,gonzalez.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Today, Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) introduced H.R. 8514, the Student Loan ReliefBill, mandating the Secretary ofEducationprovide federal student loan forgiveness amounting to $25,000 for borrowers. The Student Loan ReliefBillas introduced will provide $775.5billion in debt relief to over 43million Americans and forgive nearly half of student debt held by individuals. Students and families are taking on tens of thousands of dollars in debt to pay for a qualityeducation,said Congressman Gonzalez.This isn't accessible, sustainable or fair.The Student Loan ReliefBillwill alleviate pressure on our students without causing significant financial strain on the American economy andgive borrowers a head start in life.Students need debt relief now andmy legislationwill provide immediate aid for those struggling with loans. Americans are burdened by student loan debt now more than ever with 69 percent of college students taking out loans to accommodate the increasing cost of highereducation. This crushing student loan debt is stifling economic growth and limits Americans' ability to own a home, save for retirement or care for children. Congressman Gonzalezheld debt asalaw school graduate and understands the difficulties studentsexperience when taking outand paying offstudent loans. He will continue to pursue solutions for this crisis and fight for working class students and families. For more information on the Student Loan ReliefBill, click here. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=405826,"Rep. Cuellar Delivers $1,899,545 in Federal Funds to the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley",2020-10-06,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,TX,Henry Cuellar,C001063,cuellar.house.gov,,,legacy,"Mission, TX Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) announced $1,899,545 in federal funds to the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. These funds, awarded through the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service's Conservation Innovation Grants On-Farm Trials program, will be used to implement on-the-ground approaches to improve soil health for farming across the region. Farmers in rural America are essential to our nation said Congressman Cuellar. We depend on agriculture to strengthen our economy and provide domestically grown sources of food for the American public. This funding will allow for UTRGV to collaborate on research as well as test innovative, progressive conservation tactics in order to find ways in sustaining vital resources. As a senior member on the Appropriations Committee, I will continue to ensure that we fund programs that enable our Institutions of Higher Education to work with various stakeholders in researching and implementing cutting-edge practices. I'd like to thank President Guy Bailey and the rest of UTRGV's staff for their commitment in helping serve South Texas farmers. Through On-Farm Conservation Innovation Trials, this funding will support a widespread adoption of innovative approaches, practices and systems on working lands. The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley will collaborate with Texas State University, the National Center for Appropriate Technology, and Texas producers, on this project. Efforts will focus on the long-term regional implementation and evaluation of cover crops and improved or reduced tillage practices in degraded, subtropical soils on arid, water-limited farms. Researchers will recruit historically underserved farmers across the region to receive technical and financial assistance to improve soil health.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=405836,Rep. Cuellars Statement on President Trump Walking Away From Coronavirus Relief,2020-10-06,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,TX,Henry Cuellar,C001063,cuellar.house.gov,,,legacy,"Rep. Cuellar's Statement on President Trump Walking Away From Coronavirus Relief Washington | Charlotte Laracy, DC Press Secretary (202-226-1583); Alexis Torres, District Press Secretary (956-286-6007), October 6, 2020 Washington, D.C. Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) released the following statement after President Trump announced he was ending coronavirus relief talks over Twitter: President Trump is holding hostage the lives and livelihoods of American families. He is letting down the frontline workers, such as our doctors, nurses, teachers, sanitation, food workers and farmers, who have sacrificed so much. Where is the great deal maker during this crisis? Immediate action is needed to save lives and avert further economic devastation from the coronavirus pandemic. That's why my colleagues in the House and I have passed countless bills to help our country recover, including the updated Heroes Act just last week. The updated Heroes Act addresses the urgent needs of our local governments, families, schools, small business and restaurants while also reflecting bipartisanship and compromise. More than 210,000 Americans have died, over 7.5 million have been infected, and about 30 million are out of work. We must put politics aside and come back to the negotiating table. The American people cannot wait much longer.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://gonzalez.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-gonzalez-announces-irs-extend-economic-impact-payment-deadline-nov,Congressman Gonzalez Announces IRS to Extend Economic Impact Payment Deadline to Nov. 21,2020-10-06,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,TX,Vicente Gonzalez,G000581,gonzalez.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Today, Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) announced that the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has moved the deadline to register for an Economic Impact Payment (EIP) to November 21, 2020. Congressman Gonzalez is urging people who don't usually file a tax return and have not received an EIP to register as quickly as possible using theNon-Filers: Enter Info Here toolonIRS.gov. The tool will not be available after November 21. File for your EIP today, said Congressman Gonzalez. Those who qualify who are having difficulties should reach out to our office as quickly as possible so we can help. It is important that all who qualify for a stimulus check from the government receive it. This additional time into November is solely for those who have not received their EIP and don't normally file a tax return. For taxpayers who requested an extension of time to file their 2019 tax return, that deadline date remains October 15. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://gonzalez.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-gonzalez-responds-president-trump-s-shutdown-covid-19-negotiations,Congressman Gonzalez Responds to President Trumps Shutdown of COVID-19 Negotiations,2020-10-06,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,TX,Vicente Gonzalez,G000581,gonzalez.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Today, Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) issued a statement after President Trump shut down critical COVID-19 negotiations. I am praying for President Trump's recovery, but walking away from the table when millions of Americans are suffering as a result of a once-in-a-lifetime pandemic is cowardice. The President has received world class health care and treatment for COVID-19, but refuses to empathize with the plight of so many who have lost loved ones to this virus. Americans still have to pay rent, buy food for their families and purchase prescription drugs. No one should have to choose between putting food on the table or bypassing medications because they can't afford it. We need to prioritize the people in my district and across the United States who need relief now not judges. It's time for new leadership in this country. Congressman Gonzalez represents the 15th District of Texas which includes Hidalgo County which was one of the hardest hit counties by COVID-19 in Texas and the country. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=405812,"Rep. Cuellar Works Hard to Deliver $27,685,179 in Federal Funds to the Texas Workforce Commission",2020-10-05,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,TX,Henry Cuellar,C001063,cuellar.house.gov,,,legacy,"Laredo, TX Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) announced $27,685,179 in federal funds to the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC). These funds, awarded through the U.S. Department of Labor Dislocated Worker Grants, will be used to address workforce-related impacts of COVID-19. This pandemic has had devastating effects on businesses and their employees, said Congressman Henry Cuellar. Many Americans are still financially struggling and need assistance in finding employment opportunities. These funds will help the State ensure that those most in need are provided aid, while our small businesses continue to recover from the economic drawbacks as a result of the coronavirus. On January 31, 2020, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services declared COVID-19 a nationwide public health emergency. The Federal Emergency Management Agency also issued COVID-19 emergency declarations for states, outlying areas, and Indian tribal governments. These declarations enabled the U.S. Department of Labor to award additional funding for 15 Dislocated Worker Grants totaling $118,034,389 to help address the workforce-related impacts due to the pandemic. Dislocated Worker Grants (DWGs) Disaster Recovery DWGs qualify eligible participants disaster-relief employment opportunities to address the effects of COVID-19 on their communities, as well as employment and training activities. Employment Recovery DWGs provide reemployment services to eligible individuals affected by mass layoffs, such as those resulting from the pandemic.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://gonzalez.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-gonzalez-announces-105m-rio-grande-valley-school-districts-15th,Congressman Gonzalez Announces $105M for Rio Grande Valley School Districts in the 15th District of Texas,2020-10-05,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,TX,Vicente Gonzalez,G000581,gonzalez.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) today announced$105,358,938in Fiscal Year 2020(FY20) Title I formula allocations funds for Local Educational Agencies (LEA) in the Rio Grande Valley. Title I funding assist schooldistrictsin theeffort togive allstudents fair, equal, and significant opportunities to obtain a high-quality education. The funding also supports studentsreach state academic achievement standards and academic assessment goals. This year is going to be different in regards to how schools provide educations to kids because of the pandemic, said Congressman Gonzalez. Regardless, every student and teacher deserves access to learning resources and adequate teaching tools. These federal funds will provide a firm foundation for achieving academic success in the school districts across the Rio Grande Valley. The following allocations have been provided to LEA's in the Rio Grande Valley: Donna ISD: $14,308,308 Edcouch-Elsa ISD: $4,055,142 Edinburg ISD: $21,155,989 Hidalgo ISD: $1,466,863 La Villa ISD: $354,808 McAllen ISD: $15,509,414 Mercedes ISD: $4,328,825 Mission ISD: $11,061,314 Monte Alto ISD: $611,084 Pharr-San Juan-Alamo ISD: $19,018,407 Sharyland ISD: $3,595,276 Valley View ISD: $130,183 Weslaco ISD: $9,763,327 Congressman Gonzalez continues to be an advocate for every child in the 15th District of Texas and willcontinue towork to bring additional funding to schools across South and Central Texas. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://gonzalez.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-gonzalez-announces-over-12m-final-title-i-allocations-central-and,Congressman Gonzalez Announces Over $12M in Final Title I Allocations for Central and South Texas School Districts in the 15th District of Texas,2020-10-05,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,TX,Vicente Gonzalez,G000581,gonzalez.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) today announced $12,000,892in final Fiscal Year 2020 (FY20) Title I formula allocations funds for schools districts in Central and South Texas in the 15th District of Texas from the U.S. Department of Education. Title I Grants to local school districts are intended to ensure that the most financially and socially disadvantaged children have an equal opportunity to obtain a high quality education and reach proficiency on state academic assessments. Students in the 15th District of Texasdeserve the highest quality education we can offer them, even in the midst of a pandemic, said Congressman Gonzalez. Teachersand school administrators work tirelessly tomake sure students are learning, whether it's virtually or in person.These federal funds will help thoseschool districtstackle thenewchallenges thatarise every day and make sure their students have a successful school year. The following allocations have been provided to Central and South Texas school districts in the 15th District of Texas: Benavides ISD: $171,618 Brooks County ISD: $1,264,941 Falls City ISD: $63,960 Floresville ISD: $840,083 Freer ISD: $262,363 George West ISD: $322,714 Jim Hogg County ISD: $635,755 Karnes City ISD: $303,380 KenedyISD: $315,535 La Vernia ISD: $316,228 Marion ISD: $169,899 Mathis ISD: $1,121,196 Navarro ISD: $151,240 New Braunfels ISD: $1,312,570 Nixon-Smiley Consolidated ISD: $367,880 Poth ISD: $66,781 Ramirez ISD: $17,917 Runge ISD: $94,735 San Diego ISD: $800,171 Schertz-Cibolo-Universal City ISD:$1,086,062 Seguin ISD: $1,896,615 Stockdale ISD: $258,483 Three Rivers ISD: $160,766 Congressman Gonzalez continues to be an advocate for every child in the 15th District of Texas and will work to bring additional funding to schools across Central and South Texas.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=405813,"Cuellar, Cornyn, Border Delegation Send Bipartisan Letter Demanding DHS Plan for Re-Opening Ports of Entry",2020-10-02,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,TX,Henry Cuellar,C001063,cuellar.house.gov,,,legacy,"Laredo, TX Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) and U.S. Senator John Cornyn led a bipartisan letter to Acting Secretary of Homeland Security Chad Wolf expressing concern with continued travel restrictions at our southern ports of entry and demanding a plan to restore normal operations. Sen. Kyrsten Sinema (D-AZ, along with U.S. Representatives Will Hurd (TX-23), Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15), Michael McCaul (TX-10), and Ann Kirkpatrick (AZ-02), joined the letter. Read the full letter to Acting Secretary of Homeland Security Chad Wolf here. They wrote: We fully appreciate the difficult balance that DHS must strike between protecting its officers and the public against COVID-19, and facilitating the economic and social needs of border communities. However, DHS has provided little public insight into how it weighed the costs and benefits of these extended travel restrictions. We worry the longer lines at ports of entry and inability to social distance in pedestrian lanes may actually increase the risk of spreading COVID-19, and DHS has not provided sufficient information to show how they are mitigating these risks. Furthermore, DHS has not publicly articulated a plan for returning to normal operations, or set forth any benchmarks that must be reached before the travel restrictions can be partially relaxed or completely lifted. While we understand that DHS is currently forced to adapt to a constantly-changing situation, all four southwest border statesTexas, New Mexico, Arizona, and Californiahave developed phased reopening plans. DHS should develop the same type of plan to better provide local communities with a basic idea of what to expect in the coming months. Finally, DHS has not adequately communicated with local governments, businesses, and the general public about the travel restrictions. Although CBP has engaged in local outreach efforts, many of those efforts seem to have focused on essential businesses. So-called non-essential businesseswhich comprise critical parts of the local economiesare often left under-informed about why the restrictions have been imposed and when they may be lifted. Last week, Congressman Cuellar sent a letter to House Leadership, urging them to establish a program for enhanced COVID-19 health screenings at Land Ports of Entry (LPOEs) in the next COVID-19 Emergency Response Relief Package. The program would allow the DHS Secretary to utilize public-private partnerships to help provide U.S. Customs and Border Protection the necessary personnel, equipment, testing and medical expertise to conduct these health screenings. Read the full letter to House leadership here. In September, Congressman Cuellar held a press conference to discuss his proposal to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) that would work to reduce or eliminate restrictions on non-essential travel while limiting the further spread of Coronavirus at the southern border. DHS continues to extend non-essential travel restrictions but has not provided a plan to resolve the issue. The continual 30-day extensions of the travel restrictions prolongs economic devastation in our communities. Read his remarks from the press conference, which includes the proposal to DHS, here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://ebjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/representatives-johnson-and-schiff-introduce-the-supporting-children,Representatives Johnson and Schiff Introduce the Supporting Children with Disabilities During COVID-19 Act,2020-10-02,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,TX,Eddie Johnson,J000126,ebjohnson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC Today, Representatives Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-TX) and Adam Schiff (D-CA) introduced legislation to increase funding for children with disabilities in response to the COVID-19 crisis. The Supporting Children with Disabilities During COVID-19 Act appropriates $11 billion for state grants under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), $1.2 billion for early childhood education programs, $55 million under the Assistive Technology Act of 1998, and requires recipients of funds to report to Congress how this money is spent. Senators Chris Murphy (D-CT), Maggie Hassan (D-VT), and Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) introduced the companion bill in the Senate. This pandemic has caused significant learning challenges for children with disabilities in our nation. Our education systems are in need of substantial funding and resources to support our students in special education, said Congresswoman Johnson. That is why I am proud to lead the Supporting Children with Disabilities During COVID-19 Act with my colleague Congressman Adam Schiff. This bill will make sure that our hardworking educators receive support during this challenging time, so that students with disabilities receive the same quality education as their peers. Students with disabilities have always been among the most vulnerable in our educational system, but now with the disruption of the COVID-19 pandemic, the risk of these students falling behind is even greater, said Representative Schiff. We must ensure that schools have the resources they need to support students with disabilities and continue to provide them with the high-quality education they deserve. While all students have faced challenges associated with accessing distance learning, community supports and other related services during the pandemic, students with autism and other disabilities have been disproportionately impacted. Families and educators have shared with Autism Speaks that many autistic students have experienced learning loss and skill regression due to a lack of in-person instruction and related services like speech, occupational and behavioral therapies. Until a safe return to in-person learning is widely available, we must do everything we can to increase access to and improve the quality of services our students receive through schools, whether in person or at home, said Angela T. Geiger, President & CEO of Autism Speaks. We are grateful for the leadership of Reps. Johnson and Schiff for introducing this important legislation to provide the dedicated special education funding schools need to serve autistic youth. ""The COVID-19 pandemic has added stress to our public education system and the persistent underfunding of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) has been felt acutely. Our nation's educators need additional resources to effectively serve students with disabilities who have been disproportionately impacted by this crisis. We thank Representatives Schiff and Johnson for their leadership in introducing the Supporting Children with Disabilities during COVID-19 Act. Emergency IDEA funding is essential to providing equitable educational opportunities to every child with a disability and must be part of Congress's response to the pandemic."" -- Lindsay Jones, President & CEO of National Center for Learning Disabilities The National Disability Rights Network (NDRN) applauds the introduction of the Supporting Children With Disabilities During COVID-19 Act. This bill provides critical funding for the implementation of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). We know that students with disabilities have been disproportionately impacted during COVID and this crucial bill will help ensure that students with disabilities are able to receive an education in accordance with the IDEA during this difficult time. -- National Disability Rights Network ""The Supporting Children with Disabilities During COVID-19 Act would greatly help children with intellectual and developmental disabilities who have been particularly disadvantaged during the pandemic,"" said Annie Acosta, Director of Fiscal and Family Support Policy of The Arc. ""The additional resources provided by the legislation would go a long way in making up for the significant learning loss and social regression these children are experiencing. The Arc sincerely thanks Representatives Schiff and Johnson for seeking to provide dedicated funds for Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) programs which, unfortunately, no previous COVID relief laws have done. The chronic underfunding of IDEA has never been felt more acutely than now and we urge Congress to pass this measure to maximize the potential of children with disabilities."" Supporting organizations for this bill include: AASA (The School Superintendents Association), American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education, American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), American Federation of Teachers, American Music Therapy Association, American Occupational Therapy Association, American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), Association of Assistive Technology Act Programs, Association of Educational Service Agencies, Association of School Business Officials International (ASBO), Autism Society of America, Autism Speaks, Council for Exceptional Children, Council of Administrators of Special Education, Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates, Higher Education Consortium for Special Education, Learning Disabilities Association of America, National Association of ESEA State Program Administrators (NAESPA), National Alliance of Specialized Instructional Support Personnel, National Association of Elementary School Principals, National Association of School Psychologists, National Association of Secondary School Principals, National Association of State Directors of Special Education (NASDSE), National Center for Learning Disabilities, National Center for Special Education in Charter Schools, National Consortium for Physical Education for Individuals with Disabilities, National Disability Rights Network, National Down Syndrome Congress, National PTA, National Rural Education Advocacy Consortium, National Rural Education Association, National School Boards Association, Teacher Education Division of the Council for Exceptional Children, The Arc of the United States. Click here to read the full text of the legislation. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://gonzalez.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-gonzalez-calls-speaker-pelosi-continue-covid-negotiations,Congressman Gonzalez Calls for Speaker Pelosi to Continue COVID Negotiations,2020-10-02,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,TX,Vicente Gonzalez,G000581,gonzalez.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Today, Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) called for House Speaker Nancy Pelosi to continue working toward a deal for COVID-19 relief for the American people. He along with 17 other Members of Congress in the Blue Dog Coalition sent a letter to the Speaker urging for negotiations to continue. Congressman Gonzalez voted in favor of the Heroes 2 package which provides $2.2 trillion in relief that strives to meet the needs of the American people impacted by the coronavirus pandemic. We are here to do the work of the American people, not play political games,said Congressman Gonzalez.We should stay in Washington until a bipartisan and equitable arrangement is made that provides for those suffering from the COVID-19 pandemic. Our first priority should be to ensure that this legislation gives a fair shake to working people. In the letter the Members call for a bipartisan agreement: Because we have a divided government right now, the only path forward is a bipartisan bill that can pass a Democratic-led House and a Republican-led Senate, and be signed into law by a Republican President. By definition, this compromise bill will contain provisions we as Democrats do not like and omit provisions we want. But our country is in crisis and we must not let the perfect become the enemy of the good. The full letter is available here. ### Background on the updated version of The Heroes Act. The updated legislation includes: Strong support for small businesses,by improving the Paycheck Protection Program to serve the smallest businesses and struggling non-profits, providing hard-hit businesses with second loans, and delivering targeted assistance for the struggling restaurant industry and independent live venue operators. Additional assistance for airline industry workers, extending the highly successful Payroll Support Program to keep airline industry workers paid. More funds to bolster education and child care,with $225 billion for education including $182 billion for K-12 schools and nearly $39 billion for postsecondary education and $57 billion to support child care for families. In addition, it maintains key priorities from the legislation that passed the House in May. Among the bill's many provisions, it: Honors our heroes,through $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 health workers who keep us safe and are in danger of losing their jobs. 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. Provides additional direct payments,cushioning the economic blow of the coronavirus crisis with a more robust second round of economic impact payments of $1,200 per taxpayer and $500 per dependent. Protects payrolls,by enhancing the new employee retention tax credit that encourages employers to keep employees on payroll. Ensures worker safety,by requiring OSHA to issue a strong, enforceable standard within seven days to require all workplaces to develop and implement infection control plans based on CDC expertise. Preserves health coverage,protecting Americans losing their employer-provided health insurance by making unemployed Americans automatically receive the maximum ACA subsidy on the exchanges, as well as a special enrollment period in the ACA exchanges for uninsured Americans. Restores unemployment benefits, ensuring weekly $600 federal unemployment payments through next January and preventing unemployed workers from exhausting their eligibility, providing a vital safety net for the record number of Americans who are unemployed, including those connected to the gig-economy. 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 and utility payments and other housing-related costs preventing homelessness. 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 as well as targeted support for farmers and producers impacted by the crisis. Safeguards our democracy,with new resources to ensure safe elections, an accurate Census, and preserve the Postal Service.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=405800,Rep. Cuellar Works Hard to Deliver Over $30 Million in Federal Funds to Bexar County School Districts,2020-10-01,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,TX,Henry Cuellar,C001063,cuellar.house.gov,,,legacy,"Rep. Cuellar Works Hard to Deliver Over $30 Million in Federal Funds to Bexar County School Districts Funds will help school districts preparing students in meeting State academic standards Washington | Charlotte Laracy, DC Press Secretary (202-226-1583); Alexis Torres, District Press Secretary (956-286-6007), October 1, 2020 WASHINGTON Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) announced$30,616,169 in federal funds from the Department of Education for East Central, Randolph Field, Judson and North East Independent School Districts. The federal funds authorized under Title I Part A of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, provide financial assistance to school districts for services that improve the teaching and learning of children at risk of not meeting challenging State academic standards, especially those children who reside in areas with high concentrations of children from low-income families. As someone who has experienced the transformative power of education, I am pleased to have helped secure this grant for our local school districts,Congressman Cuellar said,We must invest in the educational needs and interests of Texas students, because they are the most important asset for our country's future. As a senior member on the Appropriations Committee, I will continue to support our school systems by providing them the necessary resources they need in order to provide high quality education in all Texas classrooms. Bexar County East Central Independent School District: $2,619,164 Randolph Field Independent School District: $44,193 Judson Independent School District: $7,620,719 North East Independent School District: $20,332,093 As a member of the Appropriations committee, Congressman Cuellar helped secure $17 billion for Title I Grants to local education agencies, an increase of $453 million over the 2019 enacted level and the President's budget request. This vital increase in funds will continue to support schools, teachers, and administrators in providing children the best education possible.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=405801,Rep. Cuellar Works Hard to Deliver Over $37 Million in Federal Funds to Hidalgo County School Districts,2020-10-01,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,TX,Henry Cuellar,C001063,cuellar.house.gov,,,legacy,"Rep. Cuellar Works Hard to Deliver Over $37 Million in Federal Funds to Hidalgo County School Districts Funds will help school districts preparing students in meeting State academic standards Washington | Charlotte Laracy, DC Press Secretary (202-226-1583); Alexis Torres, District Press Secretary (956-286-6007), October 1, 2020 WASHINGTON Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) announced$37,881,283 in federal funds from the Department of Education for Mission Consolidated, La Joya and Sharyland Independent School Districts. The federal funds authorized under Title I Part A of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, provide financial assistance to school districts for services that improve the teaching and learning of children at risk of not meeting challenging State academic standards, especially those children who reside in areas with high concentrations of children from low-income families. As someone who has experienced the transformative power of education, I am pleased to have helped secure this grant for our local school districts,Congressman Cuellar said,We must invest in the educational needs and interests of Texas students, because they are the most important asset for our country's future. As a senior member on the Appropriations Committee, I will continue to support our school systems by providing them the necessary resources they need in order to provide high quality education in all Texas classrooms. Hidalgo County Mission Consolidated Independent School District: $11,061,314 La Joya Independent School District: $23,224,693 Sharyland Independent School District: $3,595,276 As a member of the Appropriations committee, Congressman Cuellar helped secure $17 billion for Title I Grants to local education agencies, an increase of $453 million over the 2019 enacted level and the President's budget request. This vital increase in funds will continue to support schools, teachers, and administrators in providing children the best education possible.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=405802,Rep. Cuellar Works Hard to Deliver Over $1.2 Million in Federal Funds to Wilson County School Districts,2020-10-01,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,TX,Henry Cuellar,C001063,cuellar.house.gov,,,legacy,"Rep. Cuellar Works Hard to Deliver Over $1.2 Million in Federal Funds to Wilson County School Districts Funds will help school districts preparing students in meeting State academic standards Washington | Charlotte Laracy, DC Press Secretary (202-226-1583); Alexis Torres, District Press Secretary (956-286-6007), October 1, 2020 WASHINGTON Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) announced$1,223,092 in federal funds from the Department of Education for Floresville, La Vernia and Poth Independent School Districts. The federal funds authorized under Title I Part A of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, provide financial assistance to school districts for services that improve the teaching and learning of children at risk of not meeting challenging State academic standards, especially those children who reside in areas with high concentrations of children from low-income families. As someone who has experienced the transformative power of education, I am pleased to have helped secure this grant for our local school districts,Congressman Cuellar said,We must invest in the educational needs and interests of Texas students, because they are the most important asset for our country's future. As a senior member on the Appropriations Committee, I will continue to support our school systems by providing them the necessary resources they need in order to provide high quality education in all Texas classrooms. Wilson County Floresville Independent School District: $840,083 La Vernia Independent School District: $316,228 Poth Independent School District: $66,781 As a member of the Appropriations committee, Congressman Cuellar helped secure $17 billion for Title I Grants to local education agencies, an increase of $453 million over the 2019 enacted level and the President's budget request. This vital increase in funds will continue to support schools, teachers, and administrators in providing children the best education possible.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=405803,Rep. Cuellar Works Hard to Deliver Over $2.5 Million in Federal Funds to Atascosa County School Districts,2020-10-01,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,TX,Henry Cuellar,C001063,cuellar.house.gov,,,legacy,"Rep. Cuellar Works Hard to Deliver Over $2.5 Million in Federal Funds to Atascosa County School Districts Funds will help school districts preparing students in meeting State academic standards Washington | Charlotte Laracy, DC Press Secretary (202-226-1583); Alexis Torres, District Press Secretary (956-286-6007), October 1, 2020 WASHINGTON Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) announced$2,517,879 in federal funds from the Department of Education for Jourdanton, Charlotte, Lytle, Pleasanton and Poteet Independent School Districts. The federal funds authorized under Title I Part A of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, provide financial assistance to school districts for services that improve the teaching and learning of children at risk of not meeting challenging State academic standards, especially those children who reside in areas with high concentrations of children from low-income families. As someone who has experienced the transformative power of education, I am pleased to have helped secure this grant for our local school districts,Congressman Cuellar said,We must invest in the educational needs and interests of Texas students, because they are the most important asset for our country's future. As a senior member on the Appropriations Committee, I will continue to support our school systems by providing them the necessary resources they need in order to provide high quality education in all Texas classrooms. Atascosa County Jourdanton Independent School District: $270,727 Charlotte Independent School District: $215,908 Lytle Independent School District: $430,982 Pleasanton Independent School District: $1,089,657 Poteet Independent School District: $510,605 As a member of the Appropriations committee, Congressman Cuellar helped secure $17 billion for Title I Grants to local education agencies, an increase of $453 million over the 2019 enacted level and the President's budget request. This vital increase in funds will continue to support schools, teachers, and administrators in providing children the best education possible.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=405804,"Rep. Cuellar Works Hard to Deliver $19,167 in Federal Funds to McMullen County School District",2020-10-01,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,TX,Henry Cuellar,C001063,cuellar.house.gov,,,legacy,"Rep. Cuellar Works Hard to Deliver $19,167 in Federal Funds to McMullen County School District Funds will help McMullen County school district prepare students in meeting State academic standards Washington | Charlotte Laracy, DC Press Secretary (202-226-1583); Alexis Torres, District Press Secretary (956-286-6007), October 1, 2020 WASHINGTON Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) announced$19,167 in federal funds from the Department of Education for McMullen County Independent School District. The federal funds authorized under Title I Part A of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, provide financial assistance to school districts for services that improve the teaching and learning of children at risk of not meeting challenging State academic standards, especially those children who reside in areas with high concentrations of children from low-income families. As someone who has experienced the transformative power of education, I am pleased to have helped secure this grant for our local school districts,Congressman Cuellar said,We must invest in the educational needs and interests of Texas students, because they are the most important asset for our country's future. As a senior member on the Appropriations Committee, I will continue to support our school systems by providing them the necessary resources they need in order to provide high quality education in all Texas classrooms. McMullen County McMullen County Independent School District: $19,167 As a member of the Appropriations committee, Congressman Cuellar helped secure $17 billion for Title I Grants to local education agencies, an increase of $453 million over the 2019 enacted level and the President's budget request. This vital increase in funds will continue to support schools, teachers, and administrators in providing children the best education possible.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=405805,"Rep. Cuellar Works Hard to Deliver $545,485 in Federal Funds to Cotulla Independent School District",2020-10-01,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,TX,Henry Cuellar,C001063,cuellar.house.gov,,,legacy,"Rep. Cuellar Works Hard to Deliver $545,485 in Federal Funds to Cotulla Independent School District Funds will help Cotulla Independent school district prepare students in meeting State academic standards Washington | Charlotte Laracy, DC Press Secretary (202-226-1583); Alexis Torres, District Press Secretary (956-286-6007), October 1, 2020 WASHINGTON Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) announced$545,485 in federal funds from the Department of Education for Cotulla Independent School District. The federal funds authorized under Title I Part A of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, provide financial assistance to school districts for services that improve the teaching and learning of children at risk of not meeting challenging State academic standards, especially those children who reside in areas with high concentrations of children from low-income families. As someone who has experienced the transformative power of education, I am pleased to have helped secure this grant for our local school districts,Congressman Cuellar said,We must invest in the educational needs and interests of Texas students, because they are the most important asset for our country's future. As a senior member on the Appropriations Committee, I will continue to support our school systems by providing them the necessary resources they need in order to provide high quality education in all Texas classrooms. La Salle County Cotulla Independent School District: $545,485 As a member of the Appropriations committee, Congressman Cuellar helped secure $17 billion for Title I Grants to local education agencies, an increase of $453 million over the 2019 enacted level and the President's budget request. This vital increase in funds will continue to support schools, teachers, and administrators in providing children the best education possible.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=405806,Rep. Cuellar Works Hard to Deliver Over $35 Million in Federal Funds to Webb County School Districts,2020-10-01,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,TX,Henry Cuellar,C001063,cuellar.house.gov,,,legacy,"Rep. Cuellar Works Hard to Deliver Over $35 Million in Federal Funds to Webb County School Districts Funds will help school districts preparing students in meeting State academic standards Washington | Charlotte Laracy, DC Press Secretary (202-226-1583); Alexis Torres, District Press Secretary (956-286-6007), October 1, 2020 WASHINGTON Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) announced$35,145,825 in federal funds from the Department of Education for United, Laredo and Webb Consolidated Independent School Districts. The federal funds authorized under Title I Part A of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, provide financial assistance to school districts for services that improve the teaching and learning of children at risk of not meeting challenging State academic standards, especially those children who reside in areas with high concentrations of children from low-income families. As someone who has experienced the transformative power of education, I am pleased to have helped secure this grant for our local school districts,Congressman Cuellar said,We must invest in the educational needs and interests of Texas students, because they are the most important asset for our country's future. As a senior member on the Appropriations Committee, I will continue to support our school systems by providing them the necessary resources they need in order to provide high quality education in all Texas classrooms. Webb County United Independent School District: $18,257,484 Laredo Independent School District: $16,673,008 Webb Consolidated Independent School District: $215,333 As a member of the Appropriations committee, Congressman Cuellar helped secure $17 billion for Title I Grants to local education agencies, an increase of $453 million over the 2019 enacted level and the President's budget request. This vital increase in funds will continue to support schools, teachers, and administrators in providing children the best education possible.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=405807,Rep. Cuellar Works Hard to Deliver Over $2.6 Million in Federal Funds to Zapata County Independent School District,2020-10-01,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,TX,Henry Cuellar,C001063,cuellar.house.gov,,,legacy,"Rep. Cuellar Works Hard to Deliver Over $2.6 Million in Federal Funds to Zapata County Independent School District Funds will help Cotulla Independent school district prepare students in meeting State academic standards Washington | Charlotte Laracy, DC Press Secretary (202-226-1583); Alexis Torres, District Press Secretary (956-286-6007), October 1, 2020 WASHINGTON Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) announced$2,642,905 in federal funds from the Department of Education for Zapata County Independent School District. The federal funds authorized under Title I Part A of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, provide financial assistance to school districts for services that improve the teaching and learning of children at risk of not meeting challenging State academic standards, especially those children who reside in areas with high concentrations of children from low-income families. As someone who has experienced the transformative power of education, I am pleased to have helped secure this grant for our local school districts,Congressman Cuellar said,We must invest in the educational needs and interests of Texas students, because they are the most important asset for our country's future. As a senior member on the Appropriations Committee, I will continue to support our school systems by providing them the necessary resources they need in order to provide high quality education in all Texas classrooms. Zapata County Zapata County Independent School District: $2,642,905 As a member of the Appropriations committee, Congressman Cuellar helped secure $17 billion for Title I Grants to local education agencies, an increase of $453 million over the 2019 enacted level and the President's budget request. This vital increase in funds will continue to support schools, teachers, and administrators in providing children the best education possible.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z