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://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-votes-favor-cash-act-provide-2000-direct-stimulus-payments,"Rep. Sewell Votes in Favor of the CASH Act to Provide $2,000 in Direct Stimulus Payments",2020-12-28,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,AL,Terri Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC- Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) voted in favor of 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, from $600 to $2,000. Since May, House Democrats have worked diligently to pass several consecutive coronavirus relief packages to put money directly in the pockets of American families who are suffering because of this pandemic, said Rep. Terri Sewell. After months of obstruction, President Trump has finally indicated support for Democrats' proposal of a $2,000 direct payment per person. We now have an opportunity to deliver meaningful stimulus payments that will help support American families through this public health and economic crisis. Senator McConnell and Senate Republicans must now pass this legislation immediately. To ignore the needs of the American people during this great time of need would be shameful. 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. Broadens eligibility for adult dependents, allowing more Americans to qualify for economic impact payments. Retroactively qualifies adult dependents for the CARES Act economic impact payments, which can be claimed on their 2020 tax filings. Text of the legislation is available HERE.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-votes-house-democrats-and-republicans-override-president,Rep. Sewell Votes with House Democrats and Republicans to Override President Trumps Veto of 2021 National Defense Authorization Act,2020-12-28,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,AL,Terri Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC- Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07), a senior member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence and Chair of the Subcommittee on Defense Intelligence and Warfighter Support, voted to override President Trump's veto of the William M (Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021 (NDAA). The bipartisan, bicameral bill complies with the bipartisan budget agreement and authorizes $732 billion in discretionary spending for our national defense for FY 2021. It is unconscionable that President Trump would oppose a bipartisan, bicameral bill that provides critical funding necessary to support our troops during this unprecedented time in our nation's history, said Rep. Terri Sewell. Today I voted with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to override the President's reckless veto and protect the lives and livelihoods of our brave military men and women, especially those in Alabama. Senate Democrats and Republicans must work together to override his veto and ensure Americans remain safe at home and abroad. Rep. Sewell was selected by House Speaker Nancy Pelosi in November for the second time in a row to serve on the conference committee tasked with working out the differences between the House and Senate versions of the NDAA. She worked diligently with her fellow conferees to secure key wins in the bill that include: Altering or Removing All Names and Symbols Honoring the Confederacy or Those Who Served Voluntarily With the Confederacy From All DOD Assets: The conference report establishes an independent commission to make binding recommendations to the Secretary of Defense for the modification or removal of all names, symbols, displays, monuments, and paraphernalia that honor or commemorate the Confederacy or any person who served voluntarily with the Confederacy from all assets of the Department of Defense. Providing A Pay Raise to the Troops: The conference report authorizes a 3.0 percent increase in basic pay for service members. 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. No Backfill of the Military Construction Funds Taken for President's Border Wall: The conference report does not authorize any backfill of military construction funds taken for the President's border wall. 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. The bill also includes several provisions authored by Sewell, and those important to the 7th Congressional District: Provision on Aircraft Authorizes $8.73 billion for 93 F-35 Joint Strike Fighters, for modernization of the Air Force, Navy and Marine Corps fighter fleets. Montgomery's 115th 187th Fighter Wings are scheduled to receive the F-35A in 2023. Diversity Requirements for DOD Establishes a Chief Diversity Officer of the DOD and a Senior Advisor for Diversity and Inclusions for each Military Service, including the Coast Guard. Countering Racism and Extremism Requires the DOD Inspector General to establish a mechanism to track and report supremacist, extremist, and criminal gang activity in the Armed Forces. Requires questions regarding racism, anti-Semitism, and supremacism be incorporated into DOD surveys; and requires a briefing on which surveys they will be included in. Other Provisions Includes the Elijah Cummings Federal Employee Anti-Discrimination Act, passed by the House in January 2019, which strengthens equal employment opportunity protections for federal employees and strengthens prohibitions against discrimination and retaliation against whistleblowers. Authorizes $20 million for Historically Black Colleges and Universities and Minority Institutions. Requires the Secretary of Defense to partner with minority institutions of higher education to diversify the participants in the DOD's Science, Mathematics, and Research for Transformation (SMART) Defense Education Program. Establishes a mentoring and career counseling program at DOD with the goal of having the diversity of the population of officers serving in each branch reflect the diversity of the population of each armed force as a whole. Sale or Donation of Excess Department of Defense Personal Property for Law Enforcement Activities Includes disaster-related emergency preparedness activities among law enforcement activities eligible to participate in the program; provides preference for disaster-related emergency preparedness-type equipment requests, and highest preference for high-water vehicle requests. Prohibits transfer of bayonets, grenades (other than stun and flash-ban), weaponized tracked vehicles, and weaponized drones. Requires annual training by participating law enforcement agencies in de-escalation of force, and respect for the rights of citizens under the Constitution of the United States. Addressing Climate Change Requires a report on the implementation of provisions from the FY2020 National Defense Authorization Act related to installation master planning, updates to the Unified Facilities Criteria (building codes), sea-level rise modeling, and climate assessment tools. Establishes an alternative fuel vehicle pilot program that will require the military department to expand their use of alternative fuel non-tactical vehicles to increase the use of hybrid and EV vehicles. Requires DOD to invest in research and development of advanced water harvesting technologies that would aid in addressing water security issues in areas impacted by drought due to climate change. Requires the military services to assess their water use at installations in regions experiencing water scarcity, maximize use of landscaping practices that reduce water usage, and improve their water conservation. Requires DOD to submit a report on its greenhouse gas emissions for the last 10 years within 180 days of enactment. Provisions on Partners and Allies Expresses the Sense of Congress strongly reaffirming the U.S. commitment to the NATO alliance and urging further cooperation with NATO on shared challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Enhances authorities for the DOD to engage with our closest allies and partners, including those in the National Technology and Industrial Base (United States, United Kingdom, Canada and Australia) to ensure secure sources of materials critical to U.S. national security. Provisions on Europe and Russia Prevents reduction in the number of U.S. forces stationed in Germany below 34,500 until 120 days after the Secretary of Defense submits an assessment and planning regarding the implications for allies, costs, military families, deterrence, and other key issues. Also expresses the sense of Congress emphasizing the value of U.S. forces in Germany and the U.S.-German alliance. Fully funds the European Deterrence Initiative (EDI), and invests in additional capabilities that support deterrence in the European Command area of operations. Provides $250 million for the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI), which provides support and assistance to the Ukrainian Armed Forces. Establishes yearly reporting on any bounties or other attempts by the Russian Federation, its agents, or proxies to encourage or support attacks against U.S. troops or personnel in named operations or combat. Intelligence Increases accountability of funds expended for DOD clandestine activities to support operational preparation of the environment. Requires a report on foreign malign influence campaigns on social media platforms targeting elections for federal office.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-votes-favor-emergency-coronavirus-relief-package-and-fy2021,Rep. Sewell Votes in Favor of Emergency Coronavirus Relief Package and FY2021 Government Spending Bill,2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,AL,Terri Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) voted in favor of H.R. 133 and the Fiscal Year 2021 Omnibus funding bill Monday to provide hospitals, workers, and families relief from the COVID-19 pandemic and ensure the government is funded through fiscal year 2021. It's been more than eight months since Republicans have met Democrats at the negotiating table to provide our families, small businesses, frontline health care workers, and schools with the resources they need to weather the COVID-19 pandemic. While this bipartisan agreement is a compromise on many issues, this emergency funding cannot come soon enough to those struggling in Alabama and across the country from the devastating fallout of this virus, Rep. Sewell said. This bill is far from perfect, but Alabamians cannot wait any longer for relief. Once President-Elect Joe Biden is sworn in, Congress must consider a further relief package that includes more support for families, as well as essential resources for state and local governments struggling to support frontline employees, including our firefighters and police, and provide vital community resources. I am also glad that the House passed the bipartisan FY2021 Omnibus Spending bill to fund the government for next year. In these uncertain times, it is more important than ever to keep the government funded and open, said Rep. Sewell. This legislation includes additional funding for issues important to the 7th Congressional District, including health care, wastewater infrastructure, civil rights historic preservation, and our HBCUs. Critically, the H.R. 133 will provide $166 billion for economic impact payments, providing $600 stimulus direct payments per adult and child. These payments will be given to individuals making up to $75,000 a year and couples making up to $150,000 a year. This means a family of four would receive a payment of $2,400. H.R. 133 also: Extends the eviction moratorium through January 31, 2021, and provides $25 billion for emergency rental assistance. Extension of Unemployment Assistance through March 14, 2021, including a supplemental $300 per week payment. Provides $13 billion for increased SNAP food assistance, child nutrition benefits, and support for food banks. Also included in H.R. 133 and the omnibus funding bill are five pieces of legislation that Rep. Sewell has sponsored to improve health care delivery in rural and underserved areas and bring economic opportunity to the 7th District: H.R. 1052, the Physician Assistant Direct Payment Act, allows physician assistants to be directly compensated by Medicare in order to expand their role as medical providers in underserved communities. Not only will this increase access to health care in underserved communities, but it also saves money. H.R. 8892, the Rural-Urban Physician Workforce Act of 2020, helps rural and urban hospitals partner to help produce the next generation of doctors and meet our community's health care needs. H.R. 1763, the Resident Physician Shortage Reduction Act, is partially included in the bill. Today's bill will add 1,000 new medical residency slots in 2021, increasing the number of trained doctors to meet growing demand. It will also help provide hospitals and health centers the tools they need to increase access, lower wait times for patients and create a pipeline of qualified medical professionals to serve Americans' health needs. This is the first addition of residency slots since 1997. The partial inclusion of Rep. Sewell's H.R. 1680, the New Markets Tax Credit Extension Act, to extend the New Markets Tax Credit (NMTC) for 5 years, at an allocation level of $5 billion. The NMTC spurs private investment in low-income rural communities and urban neighborhoods by providing tax credits for private investments made in underserved communities. H.R. 5156, the Carbon Capture and Sequestration Extension Act, expands incentives for businesses across a range of industries to invest in state-of-the-art technologies to lower carbon emissions from existing power plants by extending the 45Q tax credit for carbon capture. In addition to those listed above, H.R. 133 also includes the following provisions: Health Care Provisions $20 billion for the procurement of COVID vaccines and therapeutics, $9 billion to the Center for Disease Control and States for vaccine distribution, and $3 billion to improve the strategic national stockpile. $22 billion to the States for COVID testing, tracing, and mitigation programs. This includes $2.5 billion for grants targeted to underserved, minority, and rural communities. $9 billion to support healthcare providers, $1 billion for the National Institutes of Health (NIH) COVID research, and $4.5 billion for mental healthcare. Business Support $284 billion for the Small Business Administration for first and second forgivable PPP loans for small businesses. The bill also expands PPP eligibility for nonprofits and modifies the PPP program to better serve the smallest businesses and independent restaurants. $9 billion in emergency capital investments in Community Development Financial Institutions and Minority Depository Institutions to support lending in low-income and persistent poverty counties. An additional $3 billion to the Community Development Financial Institution Fund to alleviate the economic impact on underserved low-income and minority communities. $13 billion to support struggling farmers, ranchers, and fisheries. Much needed funding for our transportation section, including $45 billion for public transit, buses, airports, and airlines. Education, Childcare, and Student Loan Relief An extension of student loan forbearance through April 1st of next year. Expansion of Pell Grants to 500,000 new recipients. $82 billion for education funding, including $54.3 billion dedicated to the Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund, $22.7 billion dedicated to the Higher Education Relief Fund, and $4.05 billion for the Governor's Fund. This includes $1.7 billion for HBCUs, tribal colleges, and minority-serving institutions. $10 billion to support childcare providers through the CCDBG program, and $20 million for the Head Start program. Additional Provisions Extension of the CARES Act Coronavirus Relief Fund until December 31st, 2021 to give states and localities more flexibility to allocate emergency resources. $7 billion for broadband, including $3.2 billion to help low-income families afford broadband connectivity, and $250 million for telehealth. And below are some provisions and funding included in the FY21 Omnibus Bill important to Alabama's 7th Congressional District, including: Health Care Ends surprise billing by ensuring patients are only responsible for their in-network cost-sharing amounts when patients cannot choose an in-network provider. Also prohibits certain providers from balance billing patients, and creates a new framework that protects patients and allows providers and insurers to resolve payment disputes without involving the patients. Extension of key Medicare programs, including funding for low-income Medicare beneficiary outreach, enrollment, and education activities, the Independence at Home demonstration, Medicare patient IVIG access demonstration project, and transitional coverage and retroactive Medicare Part D coverage for certain low-income beneficiaries. Increases the use of real-time benefit tools to lower Medicare beneficiary costs and requires Part D plan sponsors to implement real-time benefit tools (RTBT) that are capable of integrating with provider electronic prescribing (e-prescribing) and electronic health record (EHR) systems. Simplifies Medicare beneficiary enrollment and eliminates coverage gaps in Medicare by requiring that Part B insurance coverage begin the first of the month following an individual's enrollment and provides for a Part A and Part B Special Enrollment Period for exceptional circumstances to mirror authority in Medicare Advantage and Medicare Part D. Extends the Rural Community Hospital Demonstration (RCHD) by five years. The demonstration tests the feasibility and advisability of establishing rural community hospitals to furnish covered inpatient hospital services to Medicare beneficiaries in states with low population densities. Participating hospitals are mostly paid using reasonable cost-based methodology instead of the inpatient prospective payment system. Ensures that state Medicaid programs cover nonemergency medical transportation to necessary services. Eliminates Medicaid Disproportionate Share Hospital (DSH) cuts to our hospitals. Creation of new voluntary Medicare payment designation that provides more flexibility to rural hospitals to access funding. Tax and Trade 5 year extension of the New Markets Tax Credit. Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Child Tax Credit (CTC) special provision to allow taxpayers to refer to earned income in 2019. Reforms Tax Extender process to provide certainty for small businesses. Fix to USMCA Merchandise Processing Fee to support automakers. Re-established NADBank status to promote environmental clean-up and conservation efforts in North America.. Worker and Family Support Extension of the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program through FY2021. Includes the Supporting Foster Youth and Families through the Pandemic Act. Agriculture $1.45 billion for rural water and wastewater program loans, and $620 million in water and wastewater grants. $730 million in broadband expansion for rural education and healthcare services. $635 million for the ReConnect rural broadband program. $1.4 billion for rental assistance for affordable housing for elderly and low-income families in rural communities. $6 billion for the WIC nutrition program and $114 billion for the SNAP food program. $1.824 billion for farm programs, including $5 million to heirs property farmland issues. Commerce, Justice, and Science $346 million for the Economic Development Administration, including $2 million for STEM apprenticeships. $48 million for the Minority Business Development Agency to support minority businesses around the country. $13.5 million for the Emmitt Till Unsolved Civil Rights Crimes Reauthorization Act. The creation of a new Task Force on Law Enforcement Oversight to be composed of representatives from the DoJ, law enforcement, labor, and community-based organizations to address alleged law enforcement misconduct. $3.385 billion for grants to state and local law enforcement, including $484 million for Byrne JAG, and$386 million for the Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) program. $513 million for Violence Against Women Act programs. $23 billion for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). Defense 3% military pay raise for our service members. $335.5 million for the Department and Services' Sexual Assault Prevention and Response program. Energy and Water $180 million for the Appalachian Regional Commission to promote economic development and critical infrastructure. Financial Services $270 million for Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFI) fund. $17 million for the Election Assistance Commission to increase support to state efforts to ensure security and accessibility of Federal elections. $33 million to the FCC to improve broadband mapping data. $778.9 million for the Small Business Administration. Homeland Security $2 billion for the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA). $21.67 billion for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), including $17 billion for disaster response and recovery efforts. Interior $21.125 million to preserve the sites and stories of the Civil Rights Movement. $10 million to HBCUs for historic preservation. $9.24 billion for the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), including $1.21 billion for the EPA Superfund and $12.5 million for Environment Justice Activities. Labor-HHS-Education $185 million for Registered Apprenticeships and $2.8 billion for Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act grants. $42.9 billion for the National Institutes of Health (NIH), including $80 million for research centers in minority institutions. $12.5 million for research on firearm violence prevention. $7.5 billion for the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), including $2.4 billion for the Ryan White HIV/AIDS program. $5.9 billion for the Child Care and Development Block Grant, and $10.7 billion for the Head Start Program. $3.8 billion for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). $62 million for the Office of Minority Health, and $35 million for the Office of Women's Health. $5 million for public-private partnerships to accelerate and improve the diagnosis and treatment of kidney disease. $40.6 billion for K-12 education programs. An increase in the maximum Pell Grant to $6,495. $338 million for Historically Black Colleges and Universities, including $2 million for the Center of Education Excellence. $1.1 billion for the TRIO Program. Veterans Affairs $90 billion for VA medical care, including $10.3 billion for mental healthcare, of which $313 million is for suicide prevention efforts. $3.18 billion to address the VA disability claims processing backlog. Transportation, Housing and Urban Development $1 billion for TIGER/BUILD grants and allows for cost-share waivers for grants in rural and persistent poverty areas. $49.6 billion for the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), including $200 million for the Choice Neighborhoods Initiative. $3.5 billion for Community Development Block Grants.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-legislation-renaming-thomasville-post-office-honor-postmaster,Rep. Sewell Legislation Renaming Thomasville Post Office in Honor of Postmaster Robert Ingram Signed Into Law,2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,AL,Terri Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced today that legislation she sponsored to honor the legacy of former Postmaster Robert Ingram by renaming the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 115 Nicol Avenue in Thomasville, Alabama, as the Postmaster Robert Ingram Post Office was signed into law. Postmaster Ingram served the Thomasville community for over 30 years, first as a Marine and later as Postmaster, Rep. Sewell said. He was a beloved public servant who not only dedicated himself to his own job, but also to the training of new postmasters. The Postmaster Robert Ingram Post Office is a fitting reminder of Mr. Ingram's immense impact on the community. The family is deeply grateful for the recognition of Bob Ingram's commitment to and love for his community, said Mr. Ingram's son, Bobby Ingram. This acknowledgement will allow his legacy to continue for years to come. Bob was a fixture in our community. Every man, woman, and child knew him, his warm smile and happy greeting every time he entered the Thomasville post office, said Thomasville Mayor Sheldon Day. Bob was a true example of what it means to be a public servant, and this is a fitting tribute to the legacy of his humble and dedicated service to our city.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/tomorrow-rep-sewell-host-tele-town-hall-discuss-covid-19-unemployment,"TOMORROW: Rep. Sewell to Host Tele-Town Hall to Discuss COVID-19, Unemployment Claims, FEMA Benefits and More",2020-12-16,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,AL,Terri Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,,,legacy,"MEDIA ADVISORY for TOMORROW Tomorrow, Thursday, December 17 at 6:30 pm CT, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) will host state and local leaders for a tele-town hall to discuss the issues most important to Alabama's 7thCongressional District. Joining Rep. Sewell will be: Dr. Mary McIntyre,Chief Medical Officer, Alabama Department of Public Health David Hicks,Deputy Director, Jefferson County Health Department Fitzgerald Washington,Alabama Secretary of Labor Suzanne Darden,Finance Specialist, Small Business Development Center of Alabama Allan Jarvis,Federal Coordinating Officer, FEMA Region IV Rep. Sewell and her guests will discuss the most recent COVID-19 government relief bill, the COVID-19 vaccine distribution, unemployment claims, small business resources, FEMA resources available to Alabamians impacted by Hurricane Zeta. Rep. Sewell and participants will also answer questions directly from residents living in the 7th District. Sign up to receive a free call atwww.sewell.house.govor by following thislink. If your call does not come through, you can call-in at this toll free number: 877-353-4701. Details for Thursday, December 17, 2020: WHAT:Tele-Town Hall WHEN:6:30 p.m. CT WHERE:Sign up for a free call atwww.sewell.house.govor by following thislink",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/pandemic-worsens-reps-sewell-reed-introduce-legislation-expand-new,"As Pandemic Worsens, Reps. Sewell, Reed Introduce Legislation to Expand New Markets Tax Credit to Spur Economic Investment",2020-12-14,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,AL,Terri Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. U.S. Reps. Terri Sewell (AL-07) and Tom Reed (NY-23) introduced the New Markets Stabilization Act today, bipartisan legislation that will preserve access to the New Markets Tax Credit (NMTC) for underserved communities and ensure the credit continues to spur economic revitalization as the COVID-19 pandemic and economic crisis continues. Historically underserved communities have faced tremendous economic hardship this year because of the coronavirus pandemic. As the economic crisis continues, it's critical that we expand the New Markets Tax Credits to help ensure our rural and underserved communities are not left behind,Rep.Sewell said.The New Markets Stabilization Act expands the credit and improves market efficiency and liquidity, which will facilitate additional investments in local businesses and community development projects. Rural and persistent poverty areas have been hit especially hard by the COVID-19 pandemic and, now more than ever, it's critical that we incentivize investment in our communities that are struggling to hang on. The NMTC has a proven track record of creating jobs and opportunities in the 7th Congressional District, and I'm proud to introduce this bipartisan bill to help ensure the credit can be utilized in our communities' economic recovery. COVID-19 has impacted every corner of our economy, especially traditionally underserved communities and the financial organizations that support them. Given the critical role New Market Tax Credits can play in driving economic recovery and reducing poverty, it is only fair that we move to stabilize the program and provide investors with the additional flexibility they need to further incentivize emergency relief initiatives,said Rep. Reed. The bipartisan legislation introduced by Rep. Sewell authorizes significant new assistance through the New Markets Tax Credit (NMTC) to low-income communities that are often left out of the economic mainstream and are now coping with the health and economic consequences of the pandemic,said New Markets Tax Credit Coalition Spokesperson Bob Rapoza.From rural communities and urban neighborhoods, and everywhere in between, the additional $4.5 billion in NMTC authority championed by Congresswoman Sewell in this pandemic relief legislation, including provisions to make it easier to serve businesses and projects hardest hit in this economic and health crisis, will help provide the investment and patient capital needed to rebuild and grow. To be eligible for NMTC financing, businesses being financed must, at a minimum, be located in designated low-income communities, defined by U.S. Census data as census tracts with a poverty rate of at least 20 percent, or with median family incomes that do not exceed 80 percent of area median income. Specifically, the New Markets Stabilization Act will: Increase the NMTC allocation by $4.5 billion over four years; Allow investors to carryback these credits for five years; Exempt the NMTC from the 75 percent General Business Credit limitation; Provide relief from certain debt modification rules for NMTC issuers and borrowers; and Permanently exempt the credit from the alternative minimum tax. These provisions will ensure investor liquidity and strong demand for New Markets Tax Credits throughout our economic recovery, ultimately increasing investment and maximizing the benefit to low-income communities. Reps. Sewell and Reed have also introduced legislation to make the NMTC permanent. Without congressional action, the NMTC will expire on December 31, 2020. Alabama's 7th District has experienced the power of the NMTC firsthand. In Aliceville, the credit helped transform the Huyck Felt brick plant into a new wood pellet manufacturing facility, creating 275 jobs and, in Selma, the program helped create 55 jobs at a biomass processing facility.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-applauds-passage-2021-national-defense-authorization-act,Rep. Sewell Applauds Passage of 2021 National Defense Authorization Act,2020-12-08,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,AL,Terri Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07), a senior member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence and Chair of the Subcommittee on Defense Intelligence and Warfighter Support, praised the House passage of the FY 2021 William M (Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021 (NDAA). Sewell was also selected by House Speaker Nancy Pelosi in November for the second time in a row to serve on the conference committee tasked with working out the differences between the House and Senate versions of the NDAA. This bipartisan, bicameral bill complies with the bipartisan budget agreement and authorizes $732 billion in discretionary spending for our national defense for FY 2021. Alabama is home to so many talented men and women who play a critical role in our national security, from Maxwell Air Force Base and the 187th Fighter Wing in Montgomery, to the shipbuilding industry in Mobile and missile defense in Huntsville,Sewell said.I am proud to have represented our state in conference between the House and Senate. The bill the House passed today is reflective of our American values and authorises numerous programs critical to our national defense. If President Trump follows through with his threat to veto this bipartisan, bicameral bill, I urge my colleagues in both the House and Senate to work together to override his veto to ensure Americans remain safe at home and abroad. In the conference report, Democrats were successful in including numerous key priorities. Key wins in the conference report include: Altering or Removing All Names and Symbols Honoring the Confederacy or Those Who Served Voluntarily With the Confederacy From All DOD Assets:The conference report establishes an independent commission to make binding recommendations to the Secretary of Defense for the modification or removal of all names, symbols, displays, monuments, and paraphernalia that honor or commemorate the Confederacy or any person who served voluntarily with the Confederacy from all assets of the Department of Defense. Providing A Pay Raise to the Troops:The conference report authorizes a 3.0 percent increase in basic pay for service members. 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. NoBackfill of the Military Construction Funds Taken for President's Border Wall:The conference report doesnotauthorize any backfill of military construction funds taken for the President's border wall. Requiring Improvements in Military Housing:Theconference 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. The bill also includes several provisions authored by Sewell, and those important to the 7th Congressional District: Provision on Aircraft Authorizes $8.73 billion for 93 F-35 Joint Strike Fighters, for modernization of the Air Force, Navy and Marine Corps fighter fleets. Montgomery's 115th 187th Fighter Wings are scheduled to receive the F-35A in 2023. Diversity Requirements for DOD Establishesa Chief Diversity Officer of the DOD and a Senior Advisor for Diversity and Inclusions for each Military Service, including the Coast Guard. Countering Racism and Extremism Requires the DOD Inspector General to establish a mechanism to track and report supremacist, extremist, and criminal gang activity in the Armed Forces. Requires questions regarding racism, anti-Semitism, and supremacism be incorporated into DOD surveys; and requires a briefing on which surveys they will be included in. Other Provisions Includes the Elijah Cummings Federal Employee Anti-Discrimination Act, passed by the House in January 2019, which strengthens equal employment opportunity protections for federal employees and strengthens prohibitions against discrimination and retaliation against whistleblowers. Authorizes $20 million for Historically Black Colleges and Universities and Minority Institutions. Requires the Secretary of Defense to partner with minority institutions of higher education to diversify the participants in the DOD's Science, Mathematics, and Research for Transformation (SMART) Defense Education Program. Establishes a mentoring and career counseling program at DOD with the goal of having the diversity of the population of officers serving in each branch reflect the diversity of the population of each armed force as a whole. Sale or Donation of Excess Department of Defense Personal Property for Law Enforcement Activities Includes disaster-related emergency preparedness activities among law enforcement activities eligible to participate in the program; provides preference for disaster-related emergency preparedness-type equipment requests, and highest preference for high-water vehicle requests. Prohibits transfer of bayonets, grenades (other than stun and flash-ban), weaponized tracked vehicles, and weaponized drones. Requires annual training by participating law enforcement agencies in de-escalation of force, and respect for the rights of citizens under the Constitution of the United States. Addressing Climate Change Requiresa report on the implementation of provisions from the FY2020 National Defense Authorization Act related to installation master planning, updates to the Unified Facilities Criteria (building codes), sea-level rise modeling, and climate assessment tools. Establishesan alternative fuel vehicle pilot program that will require the military department to expand their use of alternative fuel non-tactical vehicles to increase the use of hybrid and EV vehicles. Requires DOD to invest in research and development of advanced water harvesting technologies that would aid in addressing water security issues in areas impacted by drought due to climate change. Requiresthe military services to assess their water use at installations in regions experiencing water scarcity, maximize use of landscaping practices that reduce water usage, and improve their water conservation. Requires DOD to submit a report on its greenhouse gas emissions for the last 10 years within 180 days of enactment. Provisions on Partners and Allies Expresses the Sense of Congress strongly reaffirming the U.S. commitment to the NATO alliance and urging further cooperation with NATO on shared challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Enhances authorities for the DOD to engage with our closest allies and partners, including those in the National Technology and Industrial Base (United States, United Kingdom, Canada and Australia) to ensure secure sources of materials critical to U.S. national security. Provisions on Europe and Russia Prevents reduction in the number of U.S. forces stationed in Germany below 34,500 until 120 days after the Secretary of Defense submits an assessment and planning regarding the implications for allies, costs, military families, deterrence, and other key issues. Also expresses the sense of Congress emphasizing the value of U.S. forces in Germany and the U.S.-German alliance. Fully funds the European Deterrence Initiative (EDI), and invests in additional capabilities that support deterrence in the European Command area of operations. Provides $250 million for the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI), which provides support and assistance to the Ukrainian Armed Forces. Establishes yearly reporting on any bounties or other attempts by the Russian Federation, its agents, or proxies to encourage or support attacks against U.S. troops or personnel in named operations or combat. Intelligence Increases accountability of funds expended for DOD clandestine activities to support operational preparation of the environment. Requires a report on foreign malign influence campaigns on social media platforms targeting elections for federal office.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sewell.house.gov/grants/guide-grants/guide-2-grants-issue-372-december-1-2020,"Guide 2 Grants Issue 372-December 1, 2020",2020-12-03,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,AL,Terri Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,,,legacy,"908 Alabama Avenue Federal Building, Suite 112",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-sewell-arrington-ruiz-and-hudson-introduce-bipartisan-legislation,"Reps. Sewell, Arrington, Ruiz, and Hudson Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Remove Barriers to Innovative Multi-Cancer Screening Technology for Medicare Beneficiaries",2020-12-03,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,AL,Terri Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC - Today, U.S. Reps. Terri Sewell (AL-07), Jodey Arrington (TX-19), Raul Ruiz (CA-36), and Richard Hudson (NC-08) introduced H.R. 8845, the Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act, legislation to ensure timely Medicare coverage of groundbreaking early cancer detection tests for our nation's seniors. The bipartisan legislation recognizes emerging advances in our nation's fight against cancer by ensuring Medicare coverage for new, innovative tests that detect multiple types of cancer before symptoms develop. Cancer survival rates are higher when detected early, but we are losing too many Americans to cancer simply because we do not catch it early enough. Too often, those who are most likely to be diagnosed at late stages are members of our most vulnerable communities: minority, economically fragile, and rural populations, said Rep. Sewell, the lead sponsor of the bill. Our transformative legislation will help ensureMedicare beneficiaries are able to benefit from breakthrough screening technologies. I look forward to working with my colleagues to modernize the Medicare coverage statute and ensure timely access to multi-cancer screening for beneficiaries. Multi-cancer early detection is an incredible example of the US leading in medical innovation, stated lead Republican cosponsor from the Ways and Means Committee Rep. Arrington. This type of screening has the potential to drastically improve quality of life for American cancer patients and their families, and early detection will save taxpayer dollars by treating cancer before it spreads. I am proud to support this legislation and pave the way for Medicare beneficiaries to access this life-changing technology."" Detecting cancer early improves health outcomes and saves lives, said lead Democratic sponsor from the Energy and Commerce Committee Dr. Raul Ruiz. With innovative medical technologies, we can catch more cancers earlier than ever, but patients must be able to access these screenings. That's why it's very important for Medicare policy to keep pace with the development of multi-cancer screenings. I am glad to join my colleagues in introducing the Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act of 2020 to modernize Medicare coverage so older Americans can access these screenings and improve their health outcomes. Families are devastated by a cancer diagnosis and as the second leading cause of death in the United States, it happens all too often, said lead Republican cosponsor from the Energy and Commerce Committee Rep. Richard Hudson. By increasing access to multi-cancer early detection screening tests through Medicare, we can save lives in North Carolina and around the country by catching more cancers sooner and allowing treatments to begin before cancers reach late stages. As a member of the Health Subcommittee, I look forward to advancing this bipartisan legislation. This year has exposed the inequities in our nation's healthcare system, but we have known for some time that cancer has an outsized impact on communities of color, said Gary A. Puckerin, PhD, President and CEO of NMQF. We must be ready to take full advantage of new technologies that give us the chance to not only close the gap in cancer outcomes among racial and ethnic groups, but also reduce patient risk for everyone. New multi-cancer early detection tests hold that promise and this legislation is essential to helping us achieve it. We know early detection of cancer saves lives, said Lisa Lacasse, president of the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN). By creating a pathway for Medicare to cover new, innovative, FDA-approved screening tests, this legislation would help provide more individuals with access to additional tools they and their providers can utilize to detect cancer at an earlier, more treatable stage. ""Today marks the 35th anniversary of the Prevent Cancer Foundation and today we are thrilled to celebrate the introduction of this important bill aimed at providing access to tests that will save lives through the early detection of cancer, said Carolyn R. Bo Aldig, Founder and CEO of the Prevent Cancer Foundation. ""As a community health center serving on the front lines in a region that's predominantly people of color, we see first-hand the inequities that exist related to cancer diagnosis, treatment and outcomes,"" said Anthony Gardner, CEO of Alabama Regional Medical Services. ""We know that late-stage cancer is extraordinarily deadly. This legislation will place another tool in our arsenal to detect cancer early when it is easiest to treat and survival is greatest."" As the Chief Executive Officer of the Rural Health Medical Program, I see firsthand that the health of rural residents suffers because of where we live, said Keshee Dozier-Smith, CEO of the Rural Health Medical Program. The communities that we serve are underinsured and uninsured minorities that suffer from chronic health conditions, with cancer being one of the leading deaths that go undetected in rural communities in Alabama due to the lack of availability and affordability. Providing access to Multi-cancer Early Detection Screenings creates opportunities to make real progress in the individuals and families we serve sooner rather than later in closing this gap. The Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act responds to a misalignment between advances in science and Medicare coverage by allowing for Medicare coverage of multi-cancer screening. It would: Create the authority for CMS to cover blood-based multi-cancer early detection tests and future test methods (like urine or hair tests), once approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Congress has acted before to create coverage for other cancer screenings including mammography and colorectal screenings. Maintain CMS' authority to use an evidence-based process to determine coverage parameters for these new tests. State that these new tools will complement, not replace, existing screenings and coverage and cost sharing will not be impacted. Under current law, Medicare coverage of preventive services is limited to circumstances in which Congress has explicitly authorized coverage or the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends the service with a grade of A or B. In the absence of this legislation, it could take several years after the FDA approval before Medicare beneficiaries could receive coverage for such tests. This bill would greatly reduce any such access delays for seniors while allowing CMS to use its evidence-based process to determine coverage. Accordingly, these new multi-cancer screening tools will complement existing screenings and dramatically improve our nation's cancer early detection capabilities. The Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act has the support of a number of organizations, including the: National Minority Quality Forum (NMQF), American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN), Prevent Cancer Foundation, Association of Community Cancer Centers, and Cancer Support Community. The text of the Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-selected-chief-deputy-whip-117th-congress,Rep. Sewell Selected as Chief Deputy Whip for the 117th Congress,2020-12-02,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,AL,Terri Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC- Today, House Majority Whip James E. Clyburn announced the selection of Rep. Terri A. Sewell (D-AL) as a Chief Deputy Whip for the 117th Congress. Rep. Sewell has served as a Chief Deputy Whip since she was appointed in the 113th Congress in 2013. I proudly accept the honor of serving as a Chief Deputy Whip under the leadership of Democratic Whip James Clyburn's for the 117th Congress, said Rep. Terri Sewell. I am thrilled to continue working with this dynamic team and Democratic Leadership in the House to advance an agenda focused on providing for the lives and livelihoods of the American people during this unprecedented time in our nation's history. As this public health crisis continues to disparage rural and underserved communities in Alabama across this country, I am confident we have the leadership necessary to meet the challenges for the American people that include crushing this virus, strengthening our economy, improving our nation's infrastructure, and putting Alabamians back to work. I am pleased that Terri will continue serving as Chief Deputy Whip in the 117th Congress, said Democratic Whip Jim Clyburn. Terri's experience and work ethic will continue to serve the Whip team well as we face historic challenges and opportunities next year. I look forward to working with her in collaboration with the incoming administration to advance our legislative priorities. Rep. Clyburn announced ten total representatives who will serve as Chief Deputy Whips in the 116th Congress, including: Rep. G.K. Butterfield (NC-01) and Rep. Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), who will serve as Senior Chief Deputy Whips, and Rep. Henry Cuellar (TX-28), Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee (TX-18), Rep. Dan Kildee (MI-05), Rep. Stephanie Murphy (FL-07), Rep. Jimmy Panetta (CA-20), Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07),Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-23),and Rep. Peter Welch (VT-AL) as Chief Deputy Whips. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-votes-favor-national-apprenticeship-act,Rep. Sewell Votes in Favor of National Apprenticeship Act,2020-11-20,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,AL,Terri Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC- Today, Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) voted in favor of the National Apprenticeship Act of 2020, legislation to reauthorize the National Apprenticeship Act for the first time since its enactment in 1937 and create one million new apprenticeship opportunities in five years. Registered apprenticeships provide workers with paid, on-the-job, training and are the nation's most successful federal workforce training program. As a long-time supporter of expanding registered apprenticeships, I am thrilled to support today's legislation to provide 1 million new apprenticeship opportunities over five years, said Rep. Sewell. Our Nation is facing the worst economic downturn since the Great Depression and estimates show that more than 7 million of the pandemic's job losses will be permanent. We need bold investments like those in the National Apprenticeship Act to accelerate the economy and help get the American people back to work in stable, good-paying jobs of the future. The National Apprenticeship Act of 2020: Invests more than $3.5 billion to create nearly 1 million new apprenticeship opportunities over the next five years. Establishes a $400 million grant program to support the expansion of apprenticeship opportunities, including pre-apprenticeships and youth apprenticeships, which will increase $100 million annually to reach $800 million by 2025. Codifies and streamlines standards for Registered Apprenticeship, youth apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship programs to make it easier for both apprentices and employers to participate in high-quality apprenticeships. Codifies the Department of Labor's Office of Apprenticeship and directs the office to convene industry leaders, labor organizations, educators, and others to expand apprenticeships into new occupations and sectors. Yields 10.6 billion in net benefits to U.S. taxpayers in the form of increased tax revenue and decreased spending on public-assistance programs and unemployment insurance. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-named-conferee-national-defense-authorization-act-0,Rep. Sewell Named Conferee to the National Defense Authorization Act Conference for Fiscal Year 2021,2020-11-18,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,AL,Terri Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC- Today, Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi named U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) to serve on a conference committee of the House and Senate versions of the FY 2021 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). NDAA conferees from the House and Senate will work together to resolve differences between the distinct defense authorization bills passed by each chamber in June 2020. This will be the second year that Rep. Sewell has been selected as an NDAA conferee. The NDAA authorizes funding to equip, supply and train U.S. troops and support military families. The bill has been passed by Congress for 58 continuous years. Sewell, a senior Member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence and Chair of the Subcommittee on Defense Intelligence and Warfighter Support, is committed to continuing this bipartisan tradition of passing a smart defense bill that provides servicemembers with the resources they need to address and counter today's increasingly complex national security challenges. As an FY2020 NDAA Conferee, Rep. Sewell was successful in securing language to improve federal campaign election security, increase intelligence funding, and promote increased diversity in the Intelligence Community's workforce. She also worked closely with Senator Doug Jones to successfully repeal the Military Widow's Tax, which unfairly taxed military widows and widowers' survivor benefits. The House and Senate have historically put politics aside on behalf of the American people to pass the NDAA. This critically important legislation authorizes our national defense priorities for the year and provides our brave men and women with the resources needed to carry out their missions across the world, Sewell said. I am committed to continuing this tradition and working to exclude any partisan provisions that threaten the defense and wellbeing of our nation. As a Representative from a state that plays such a major part in our national security, I am honored to be able to play such a significant role as a conferee for the second consecutive year. The House Democratic Conferees to the conference committee are: House Committee on Armed Services Congressman Adam Smith of Washington, Chair Congresswoman Susan Davis of California Congressman James Langevin of Rhode Island Congressman Rick Larsen of Washington Congressman Jim Cooper of Tennessee Congressman Joe Courtney of Connecticut Congressman John Garamendi of California Congresswoman Jackie Speier of California Congressman Donald Norcross of New Jersey Congressman Ruben Gallego of Arizona Congressman Seth Moulton of Massachusetts Congressman Salud Carbajal of California Congressman Anthony Brown of Maryland Congressman Ro Khanna of California Congressman Bill Keating of Massachusetts Congressman Filemon Vela of Texas Congressman Andy Kim of New Jersey Congresswoman Kendra Horn of Oklahoma Congressman Gil Cisneros of California House Committee on Agriculture Congressman Collin Peterson of Minnesota Congresswoman Abigail Spanberger of Virginia House Committee on Budget Congressman Joseph Morelle of New York Congressman Steven Horsford of Nevada House Committee on Education and Labor Congressman Bobby Scott of Virginia Congresswoman Lori Trahan of Massachusetts House Committee on Energy and Commerce Congressman Frank Pallone of New Jersey Congresswoman Diana DeGette of Colorado House Committee on Financial Services Congresswoman Maxine Waters of California, Chair Congressman Juan Vargas of California House Committee on Foreign Affairs Congressman Eliot Engel of New York, Chair Congressman Brad Sherman of California House Committee on Homeland Security Congresswoman Xochitl Torres Small of New Mexico Congresswoman Elissa Slotkin of Michigan House Committee on Administration Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren of California Congresswoman Marcia Fudge of Ohio House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence Congressman Adam Schiff of California, Chair Congresswoman Terri Sewell of Alabama House Committee on Judiciary Congressman Jerrold Nadler of New York, Chair Congresswoman Debbie Mucarsel-Powell of Florida House Committee on Natural Resources Congressman Ral Grijalva of Arizona, Chair Congresswoman Deb Haaland of New Mexico House Committee on Oversight and Reform Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney of New York, Chair Congressman Stephen Lynch of Massachusetts House Committee on Science, Space and Technology Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson of Texas, Chair Congressman Mikie Sherrill of New Jersey House Committee on Small Business Congresswoman Nydia Velzquez of New York, Chair Congressman Jared Golden of Maine House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure Congressman Jared Huffman of California Congressman Harley Rouda of California House Committee on Veterans' Affairs Congressman Mark Takano of California, Chair Congressman Conor Lamb of Pennsylvania House Committee on Ways and Means Congressman Richard Neal of Massachusetts, Chair Congressman Jimmy Panetta of California",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sewell.house.gov/grants/guide-grants/guide-2-grants-issue-368-september-15-2020,"Guide 2 Grants Issue 368-September 15, 2020",2020-11-12,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,AL,Terri Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,,,legacy,"908 Alabama Avenue Federal Building, Suite 112",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sewell.house.gov/grants/guide-grants/guide-2-grants-issue-370-october-15-2020,"Guide 2 Grants Issue 370-October 15, 2020",2020-11-12,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,AL,Terri Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,,,legacy,"908 Alabama Avenue Federal Building, Suite 112",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sewell.house.gov/grants/guide-grants/guide-2-grants-issue-371-november-1-2020,"Guide 2 Grants Issue 371-November 1, 2020",2020-11-12,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,AL,Terri Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,,,legacy,"908 Alabama Avenue Federal Building, Suite 112",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.jones.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-doug-jones-statement-on-president-elect-joe-biden,Senator Doug Jones Statement on President-Elect Joe Biden,2020-11-07,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,AL,Doug Jones,J000300,www.jones.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Birmingham, Ala. U.S. Senator Doug Jones of Alabama today released the following statement in response to the projected results of the 2020 U.S. Presidential election: For the forty years I've known Joe Biden, I have only ever seen him focused on two things: taking care of his family and serving others. In doing so, he has earned the admiration and respect of people of all political stripes and from around the globe. Joe is the right person to begin to heal the deep divisions that have been exposed and exploited over the past several years. But more than that, I know he is a man of integrity to his core and cares deeply about our country and its people.And when he says that he will represent all Americans even those who didn't vote for him I know from personal experience that he means it. It is important for the people of this country to know that about him,andI am confident he will make us all proud by continuing to demonstrate the leadership and compassion that have become his trademark. I'm proud to congratulate my friend Joe today, and I can't wait to see him get to work. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-host-virtual-2020-grants-workshop-funding-department-justice,Rep. Sewell to Host Virtual 2020 Grants Workshop on Funding from the Department of Justice,2020-11-06,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,AL,Terri Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,,,legacy,"Birmingham, AL- On Thursday, November 12th from 10:00-11:30 A.M. CST, Congresswoman Terri Sewell (D-AL) will host a virtual Grants Workshop LIVE via Zoom focused on funding opportunities at the US Department of Justice (DOJ) entitled--Navigating Justice Department Grants: Bridging the Gap Between Community & Police. This virtual event is FREE and open to the public. Registration is required via Eventbrite found on the home page of Rep. Sewell's official website at Sewell.house.gov. ""I am excited to host this virtual grants workshop focused on the many funding opportunities available at the Justice Department. Participants will receive critical information about how to apply and win DOJ grants that support programs and initiatives like crime prevention, child abuse, youth engagement, domestic violence, drug abuse & prevention, mental health, human trafficking, and greater community and police cooperation. Applications for many of these DOJ grants can be made by community-based & faith-based organizations, non-profits, legal aid groups as well as state, city and county law enforcement, said Rep. Sewell. This year, DOJ has made changes to their grant application process, so it is imperative that all applicants understand the new system. Too often communities and organizations are unaware of the grant opportunities that are available. This virtual workshop will provide detailed information on the funding opportunities at DOJ that can assist in creating safer, more informed and healthier communities. The virtual workshop will feature representatives from Alabama law enforcement, legal aid, nonprofits, grant writers as well DOJ officials to provide participants with an overview of Justice Department Grants and important application deadlines. For additional information, visit Sewell.house.gov and for questions regarding the 2020 Justice Department Grants Workshop you can contact our Grants Coordinator Yolanda Clayton at the Birmingham office at (205) 254-1960. Registration is required via Eventbrite. Stay updated by following Rep. Sewell's official Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. WHAT: Rep. Sewell's virtual workshop on Navigating Justice Department Grants: ""Bridging the Gap Between Community & Police"" WHEN: November 12, 2020 TIME: 10:00-11:30 A.M. CST WHERE: Registration REQUIRED via Eventbrite, Broadcast via Zoom WHO: FREE & open to the public.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/video-icymi-rep-sewell-hosts-military-service-academy-preview-day-2020,VIDEO: *ICYMI* Rep. Sewell Hosts Military Service Academy Preview Day 2020,2020-11-06,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,AL,Terri Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,,,legacy,"Birmingham, AL Yesterday, Congresswoman Terri Sewell (AL-07) hosted the first virtual Military Service Academy Preview day via Facebook Live with representatives from all 5 Military Service Academies and the Marion Military Institute. The panelists provided presentations about the admissions process, resources and scholarships available for students, and their personal experiences as U.S. Military Service Academy students or graduates. ""I hope all graduating seniors in Alabama's 7th District will consider applying to a U.S. Military Service Academy for college. I can attest to and hope all were able to witness during our presentations that it's a great way to get a scholarship for a great education, but also is a wonderful way to learn, see the world and serve your country,"" said Rep. Sewell. ""It is a requirement that you serve a minimum of 5 years in our nation's military. What a wonderful opportunity the U.S. Military Service Academies provide. Remember, the deadline is FRIDAY, November 6 to apply by mail through my Birmingham office!"" Military Service academy nomination applications are being accepted by Rep. Sewell's Birmingham office by MAIL until the November 6, 2020 deadline. Office of Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell Two 20th Street North, Suite 1130 Birmingham, AL, 35203 205.254.1960 For more information visit Rep. Sewell's official website at Sewell.house.gov to access the Military Service Academy Nomination checklist and application. Nominating interviews for students will be conducted via Zoom on Saturday, November 21, 2020. For more information on Military Service Academy Nominations for 2020 please visit Rep. Sewell's website at Sewell.house.gov. Background on Service Academies There are five Service Academies: The United States Air Force (USAFA), Naval (USNA), Army at West Point (USMA), Merchant Marine (USMMA), and Coast Guard (USCGA) Academies. Nominations are required for all but the U.S. Coast Guard Academy, to which appointments are made on the basis of their independent application process.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-announces-9th-annual-and-first-virtual-job-fair-2020,Rep. Sewell Announces 9th Annual and First Virtual Job Fair 2020,2020-10-26,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,AL,Terri Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,,,legacy,"Birmingham, AL- Congresswoman Terri Sewell (AL-07) officially announced the opening of registration for Alabama's 7th District 9th Annual and first Virtual Job Fair. Job Fair 2020 will be a two-day event held virtually via Zoom on Wednesday & Thursday, November 18th & 19th from 10 a.m.- 6 p.m. CST. Job Seekers will have the opportunity to connect with employers from 10 different industries. Registration is required via Eventbrite located on our website at Sewell.house.gov. Virtual Job Fair 2020 is FREE and open to the public. ""Since the COVID-19 pandemic, I know so many jobs have been lost, and now more than ever our annual Job Fair is needed,"" said Rep. Sewell, ""For the past 8 years, the Job Fair has been a space for job seekers in Alabama's 7th Congressional District to connect directly with employers. We are very excited to continue our tradition with a robust 2020 virtual program! Over the course of two days, job seekers can learn about jobs available right NOW in Alabama."" This year's virtual event will feature employers from more than 10 types of industries, including: Automotive Restaurant and Food Management Transportation and Construction Hospitality and Retail Health Services Utilities and Telecommunications Manufacturing and Production Staffing Agencies Government Agencies Law Enforcement",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.jones.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-doug-jones-statement-on-the-confirmation-of-amy-coney-barrett-to-the-united-states-supreme-court,Senator Doug Jones Statement on the Confirmation of Amy Coney Barrett to the United States Supreme Court,2020-10-26,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,AL,Doug Jones,J000300,www.jones.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON U.S. Senator Doug Jones of Alabama released the following statement after voting against the nomination of Amy Coney Barrett to the United States Supreme Court: This process has been perhaps one of the most blatantly hypocritical in the history of the Senate and has further eroded trust in the independence of the Supreme Court in the eyes of the American people. By forcing this vote only eight days before an election, Mitch McConnell has prioritized temporary political gain over the long term integrity of both institutions. I also believe his decision to force through this confirmation instead of negotiating a bipartisan COVID relief package is an insult to the millions of Americans who are suffering as a result of this pandemic. I voted no today because I refuse to be a party to Mitch McConnell's power grab, to the hyper-politicization of the Senate and the courts, and to denying the American people a voice in this process while voting for the next President is already underway. Now that Justice Barrett has been confirmed, it is my sincere hope that she will rule in a way that protects our institutions, our democracy, and the rule of law. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-accepting-military-service-academy-nominations-2020,Rep. Sewell Accepting Military Service Academy Nominations for 2020,2020-10-23,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,AL,Terri Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,,,legacy,"Birmingham, AL Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell (D-AL) is currently accepting 2020 Military Service Academy nomination applications. The official 2020 nominating process for Military Service Academies is open! Each year I have the great privilege of nominating a select number of applicants to four of the five military service academies. One of my most satisfying duties as a Member of Congress is nominating young people from my district to these historic institutions, stated Rep. Sewell. To be considered for an appointment to a military service academy, an applicant must meet the eligibility requirements established by law, be legally domiciled within the boundaries of Alabama's 7th Congressional District. Students MUST complete a 2020 Nomination application, which can be found here or on Rep. Sewell's website at Sewell.house.gov. Submissions must be received by the Birmingham office by U.S. mail postmarked no later than Friday, November 6, 2020; Office of Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell Two 20th Street North, Suite 1130 Birmingham, AL, 35203 205.254.1960 On Thursday, October 29, 2020 at 4:00pm CST Congresswoman Sewell will host a virtual Military Service Academy Preview Day with representatives from all 5 Service Academies who will provide information and answer questions about each of the military service academies. Students and parents can register via this zoom link for the Military Service Academy Preview Day. Nominating interviews for students will be conducted on Saturday, November 21, 2020 via Zoom. For more information on Military Service Academy Nominations for 2020 please visit Rep. Sewell's website at Sewell.house.gov. Background on Service Academies There are five Service Academies: The United States Air Force (USAFA), Naval (USNA), Army at West Point (USMA), Merchant Marine (USMMA), and Coast Guard (USCGA) Academies. Nominations are required for all but the U.S. Coast Guard Academy, to which appointments are made on the basis of their independent application process.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.jones.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-doug-jones-applauds-signing-of-historic-veterans-mental-health-and-suicide-prevention-bill,Senator Doug Jones Applauds Signing of Historic Veterans Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Bill,2020-10-21,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,AL,Doug Jones,J000300,www.jones.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON U.S. Senator Doug Jones of Alabama today applauded the signing ofbipartisanlegislation he cosponsored, theCommander John Scott Hannon Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act, into law. The legislation will bolster the Department of Veterans Affairs' (VA) mental health workforce and increase rural veterans' access to care. Too many veterans in Alabama and across the country lack access to affordable, compassionate and effective mental health care. Through increased access to local and innovative treatment options, this new law will help veterans get the life-saving mental health services they may need,said Senator Jones, a member of the Armed Services Committee. According to the VA, it is estimated that more than 20 veterans die by suicide every day. Of those, 14 have received no treatment or care from VA. TheCommander John Scott Hannon Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act, which was introduced by Senators Jerry Moran of Kansas and Jon Tester of Montana, will improve outreach to veterans and their mental health care options in six key ways: Bolstering VA's mental health workforce to serve more veterans by offering scholarships to mental health professionals to work at Vet Centers, and placing at least one Suicide Prevention Coordinator in every VA hospital. Improving rural veterans' access to mental health care by increasing the number of locations at which veterans can access VA telehealth services. Implementing a pilot program to provide veterans access to complementary and integrative health programs through animal therapy, agritherapy, sports and recreation therapy, art therapy and post-traumatic growth. Establishing a grant program that requires VA to better collaborate with community organizations across the country already serving veterans. This collaboration will result in earlier identification of veterans who are at risk of suicide and will provide the ability to intervene with preventative services. Studying the impact of living at high altitude on veterans' suicide risk and diagnostic biomarker research to identify depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and other conditions. Holding the VA accountable for its mental health care and suicide prevention efforts by examining how the Department manages its suicide prevention resources. This law honors the legacy of Commander John Scott Hannon, a member of the Navy SEALs who served in the U.S. Navy for 23 years. Scott Hannon received treatment for his invisible wounds of war while helping other veterans find their own paths to recovery. Scott died by suicide on February 25, 2018. From his position on the Senate Armed Services Committee, Senator Jones has been a vocal advocate on behalf of all whoserve or have served in our nation's armed forces.Senator Jones has also secured hundreds of millions of dollars in funding for Alabama's military installations and service members, and he led a successful fight to repeal a decades-old law that hurt surviving military spouses, called the widow's tax, last year.He also recently introduced bipartisan legislation to prevent veteran suicide by designating one week per year as Buddy Check Week to organize outreach events and educate veterans on how to conduct peer wellness checks. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-announces-federal-investment-award-over-17-million-dredge,Rep. Sewell Announces Federal Investment Award of Over $1.7 Million to Dredge the Port of Epes Industrial Park,2020-10-20,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,AL,Terri Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC- Today, Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced the $1.7 million investment award from the Economic Development Administration (EDA) to improve access and increase economic opportunities for the Port of Epes Industrial Park in Livingston/Sumter County, AL. The Congresswoman has worked for several years with local officials and the University of West Alabama in their efforts to boost industrial transportation access to promote export development, attract additional investments, support business resilience, and strengthen the economy of the Black Belt. I am so excited that the Port of Epes in Livingston has been granted the funding necessary to promote economic opportunity for our workers and families in the Black Belt, said Rep. Sewell. There is nothing more important to me than increasing opportunity in my district. That is why I have fought so hard to make Alabama's Opportunity Zone program work for areas like the Black Belt, where communities will most benefit from investments and job development. ""We at the Alabama-Tombigbee Regional Commission are excited to learn today that the Economic Development Administration has awarded $1.7 million dollars to the University of West Alabama to improve barge access to the Port of Epes in Sumter County Alabama. This grant which is located in an Opportunity Zone will help create 85 jobs with a $175 million dollar private investment,"" said John Clyde Riggs, Executive Director of the Alabama-Tombigbee Regional Commission, ""Thanks go out to Congresswoman Terri Sewell for her assistance in securing this much needed grant."" We are immensely appreciative of this grant award from the U.S. Department of Commerce that will allow UWA the opportunity to expand our economic and workforce development efforts for a 10-county rural area that we serve, said University of West Alabama (UWA) President KenTucker.In 2018, UWA shifted its outreach focus to economic and workforce development, and in a very short time, this division has helped secure nearly $5 million in external funding for the Port of Epes, plus nearly $5 million for other economic and workforce development initiatives in our region. As a regional university whose mission includes improving the quality of life for the region, UWA has long seen education as an engine that drives economic and workforce development, and this $1.7 million will have a transformative influence on the people of west Alabama and beyond for many years to come, said Dr. Tina N. Jones, Vice President of UWA's Division of Economic and Workforce Development. We are eager to continue our efforts to establish the partnerships and innovative initiatives that will strengthen the impact of this generous investment for our region and rural Alabama. It is critical that we continue to work together with organizations and agencies at every level to provide a foundation for the Black Belt by showcasing all that it has to offer to the rest of the world, said Allison T. Brantley, director of economic development at UWA. We want to do far more than merely sustain our economy. We want to match assets, resources, and opportunities in such a way that says to industries and developers not only are we a viable option, but we are the best option. The University of West Alabama applied for the EDA investment grant with the Industrial Development Authority of Sumter County. The total investment amount is $1,731,900 with projected 85 jobs created and $175 million in private investment. EDA grants are awarded through a competitive process based upon the application's merit, the applicant's eligibility, and the availability of funds. More information on EDA's grant process and investment process can be found at www.eda.gov. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-sewell-and-smith-lead-letter-protect-dialysis-patients-access,Reps. Sewell and Smith Lead Letter to Protect Dialysis Patients Access to Treatment,2020-10-16,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,AL,Terri Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC - U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (D-AL) and Rep. Jason Smith (R-MO) led a bipartisan group of 42 Members of Congress in a letter urging the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to ensure that the end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients who will be enrolling in Medicare Advantage (MA) plans in 2021 have access to a sufficient number of providers and locations to access their dialysis care. The bipartisan letter was written in response to CMS's decision to remove outpatient dialysis facilities from time and distance standards in Medicare Advantage (MA). Read the full letter to CMS Administrator Seema Verma. As representative of a congressional district with one of the highest rates of dialysis patients in the country, I am deeply concerned about the consequences of CMS's decision to remove outpatient dialysis facilities from time and distance standards in Medicare Advantage, especially in the COVID-19 pandemic, said Rep. Terri Sewell. It is incumbent on CMS to carefully monitor network adequacy and patient access, as well as maintain the current standards for ESRD patients who transition to Medicare Advantage. Network adequacy protections are critical to ensure that dialysis patients, who are among the most medically fragile patients, have unfettered access to adequate coverage of the dialysis care they depend on. The elimination of the time and distance standards would result in increased travel time for ESRD patients in rural areas and undermine the intent of the ESRD Choice Act. said Rep. Smith. It is vital that ESRD patients enrolling in Medicare Advantage have access to an outpatient dialysis facility near their home and I look forward to working with CMS to ensure ESRD patients enrolling in Medicare Advantage have the protections they deserve. Due to the removal of network adequacy protections for outpatient dialysis care by CMS, the 2021 transition that allows all ESRD patients to enroll in MA will not meet its full potential to improve outcomes, and dialysis patients who enroll in MA will be at greater risk due to weakened network adequacy protections. Specifically, ESRD patients could have increased travel time to covered dialysis facilities, which has been shown to negatively impact patients' quality of life, adherence to treatment, and overall health outcomes. Data shows that African American, Hispanic, and low-income patients are disproportionately impacted by ESRD. These populations already face significant disparities in care access and outcomes. Moreover, ESRD is a key risk factor for COVID-19 morbidity and mortality. At a time when ESRD patients are particularly vulnerable to increased public exposure and changes in their care routine, patients should be able to access the most clinically appropriate facility-based care close to home.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-praises-launch-alabama-wastewater-project,Rep. Sewell Praises Launch of Alabama Wastewater Project,2020-10-15,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,AL,Terri Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC- Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) praises the launch of an Alabama Wastewater project in the Black Belt by Columbia World Projects. The project, Addressing the Gap in Reliable Affordable Wastewater Services to Improve Public Health, provides a $710,000 investment to pilot a new approach to wastewater treatment that is equitable, technically feasible and financially sustainable for underserved, low-income communities, like in Alabama's Black Belt. Columbia World Projects is a major initiative at Columbia University that mobilizes the university's researchers and scholars to work with governments, organizations, businesses and communities to tackle global challenges. The project is a collaborative effort by various disciplines of Columbia University with the University of Alabama; the University of South Alabama; Auburn University, the University of California, Irvine; the University of North Carolina; and a consortium of Alabama-based partners representing government agencies, community-based organizations and other stakeholders. I am grateful to Columbia World Projects for their investment in my district and in Alabama's rural Black Belt to address the challenges posed by failing wastewater infrastructure. This project will build upon the progress my office has made over the years to secure vital federal funding for cost-effective rural sewer and wastewater systems, said Rep. Terri Sewell. In Alabama and many rural communities across the country, failing septic tanks and deteriorating wastewater infrastructure has left an untold number of families with untreated sewage in their yards and local waterways. I have seen this crisis first-hand in the Black Belt. Thanks to this outstanding project, Alabama's 7th Congressional District will serve as a model for how we can successfully address the health and environmental impacts of failing wastewater infrastructure by providing rural Americans with affordable decentralized wastewater treatment systems that work. Nicholas Lemann, Director of Columbia World Projects states: This project brings together university researchers and rural communities in Alabama to tackle a long-standing source of inequality the lack of affordable, reliable wastewater services. Closing this gap will not only be good for the heath, environment and livelihoods of people living in these underserved parts of Alabama as Representative Sewell has long fought to do but also may serve as a model for communities across the world grappling with similar challenges. Across the United States, wastewater and sanitation systems are failing, leading to contaminated water supplies, parasitic infections, and environmental degradation. The wastewater challenges in the rural Black Belt region of Alabama are particularly acute, further exacerbating pervasive inequalities across the region. The project will engage with communities in rural Alabama and will leverage newly emerging technologies to: Investigate and quantify the negative health, environmental and economic impacts of wastewater systems failures, expanding on research funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Design and pilot a clustered, decentralized wastewater treatment system based on new technology, and demonstrate the sanitation-related health and environmental benefits in the pilot area. Develop new models and analytical tools to enable other communities and stakeholders to identify appropriate solutions for dealing with wastewater challenges. Produce best practices for adopting new financial and operational models for wastewater treatment. Rep. Sewell has worked tirelessly to secure federal wastewater funding so that every Alabama resident, especially those in Alabama's 7th Congressional District, has access to basic wastewater sanitation. Most recently, Rep. Sewell introduced the Decentralized Wastewater Grant Act of 2020 to make available additional federal funding for families to repair and replace failing wastewater systems. The legislation would establish a grant program under the Clean Water Act, administered by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), to help low- and moderate-income households connect their homes to existing wastewater infrastructure or install or upgrade individually owned decentralized wastewater systems. If passed, this funding would be in addition to the grant program Sewell expanded in the 2018 Farm Bill that is administered by the Department of Agriculture. A comprehensive rundown on Sewell's wastewater efforts is available here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.jones.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-doug-jones-applauds-passage-of-bill-to-provide-international-trade-opportunities-for-alabama-businesses,Senator Doug Jones Applauds Passage of Bill to Provide International Trade Opportunities for Alabama Businesses,2020-10-05,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,AL,Doug Jones,J000300,www.jones.senate.gov,,,legacy,"BIRMINGHAMU.S. Senator Doug Jones of Alabama today announced thatlast week,the Senatepassed the House of Representatives version ofhis bipartisan legislation to reauthorize the Caribbean Basin Trade Partnership Act (CBTPA) until 2030. Under the agreement, Caribbean businesses are incentivized to use American textiles many of which are made in Alabama during production. This trade agreement has been crucial for our economy, both in Alabama and across the country. Reauthorizing this deal is important to ensure that markets are available for Alabama's cotton growers and textile producers, who were already facing hard times in the global trade landscape even before the COVID pandemic began. We need to do everything we can to support our businesses during these challenging economic times,Senator Jones said. The CBTPA is a trade agreement that provides duty-free access for certain textile goods from 23 Caribbean countries that are made with U.S. yarns, fabrics, and threads. Many companies in Alabama, including those in the cotton industry, benefit from this agreement. Preferences under the Caribbean Basin Trade Partnership Act extended by this bill were enacted by Congress in 2000 and extended in 2010. Without reauthorization, the legislation would have expired. The legislation was also sponsored by Senators Marco Rubio of Florida and Ben Cardin of Maryland. Congresswoman Terri Sewell of Alabama is the lead sponsor in the House of Representatives, where the bill passed unanimously. The legislation now heads to the President's desk to be signed into law. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-votes-favor-updated-heroes-act,Rep. Sewell Votes in Favor of the Updated Heroes Act,2020-10-01,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,AL,Terri Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. - Today, Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) voted in favor of the Updated Heroes Act, House Democrats' latest legislation to address the ongoing needs that have resulted from the COVID-19 public health crisis. This bill reflects current negotiations between Democrats and Republicans, as well as needs that have risen since the original Heroes Act passed the House of Representatives in May 2020. It is unfortunate that the White House and Senate Republicans have not been willing to compromise to provide additional money for ongoing relief to our communities, workers, and families, Sewell said. With passage of the Updated Heroes Act today, House Democrats' have given the White House and Senate Republicans one more chance to pass another stimulus bill that will continue to provide critical relief for the American people. The provisions in the Updated Heroes Act are essential to avert greater economic and health catastrophe for families, schools, small businesses, essential workers, and health care providers in Alabama's 7th Congressional District, Sewell continued. Not only does this legislation deliver much-needed resources to Alabama counties and cities, it also reflects House Democrats' willingness to compromise in good faith to ensure our country can weather this ongoing crisis. The Updated Heroes Act would provide counties and cities in Alabama's 7th Congressional District with $396 million in funding to cover coronavirus-related outlays and revenue loss and pay our health care workers, library staff, law enforcement, fire, transportation, EMS, teachers and other vital workers who keep us safe and are in danger of losing their jobs. A town-by-town breakdown of the estimated funding allocations for the 7th District under the Updated Heroes Act is available here. In addition to resources for our state, local, tribal and territorial governments, the Updated Heroes Act maintains key priorities from the original version of the legislation that passed the House in May. The bill also provides families with a second round of direct payments of $1,200 for each individual and $500 for each dependent, and extends weekly $600 federal unemployment payments through January 2021. Among the bill's many provisions, it: Provides strong support for small businesses by improving the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) 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. More funds to bolster education and child care, with $225 billion for education including $182 billion for K12 schools and nearly $39 billion for postsecondary education and $57 billion to support child care for families. 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. Protects payrolls, by enhancing the new employee retention tax credit that encourages employers to keep employees on payroll. 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. 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 https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewells-bill-naming-thomasville-post-office-after-postmaster-robert,Rep. Sewell's Bill Naming Thomasville Post Office After Postmaster Robert Ingram Passes by Unanimous Consent,2020-09-30,2020,2020-09,Democrat,Senate,AL,Terri Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC- Today, Congresswoman Terri Sewell (D-AL) was joined by her colleagues in the House of Representatives in unanimously passing the bill she introduced, H.R. 5307, honoring the legacy of former Postmaster Robert Ingram by renaming the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 115 Nicol Avenue in Thomasville, Alabama, as the Postmaster Robert Ingram Post Office'. ""I am thrilled that the House of Representatives passed my bill to rename the Thomasville post office after its long time former Postmaster Robert ""Bob"" Ingram, said Rep. Sewell. ""A true patriot, Bob Ingram served his country in the Vietnam War as a U.S. Marine. He was appointed Postmaster in Thomasville, AL by President Johnson and faithfully served the people of Thomasville for over three decades. Postmaster Ingram was a dedicated public servant whose commitment to exemplary service - always with a smile - was an example to us all. I thank the Alabama Delegation and my House colleagues for unanimously joining me today in honoring Postmaster Ingram from Alabama's 7th Congressional District."" ""Mr. Bob Ingram was Thomasville's postmaster most of my childhood and adult life. His smile and personal service to his postal customers was a fixture in our post office,"" said Mayor Sheldon Day. ""He was an exemplary public servant and a friend to all who knew him. I know our entire community is thrilled to know our post office will now bear his name in honor and remembrance of his loyal and dedicated service to Thomasville and its citizens! We thank Congresswoman Sewell, Sen. Shelby and our entire Alabama Congressional Delegation for working together to make this day possible."" Bob Ingram loved his employees and his customers and treated them all like family. We are so proud of his legacy and so honored that his name will carry on with the Thomasville Post Office, said Postmaster Ingram's family in their statement. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-s-statement-nomination-judge-amy-coney-barrett-united-states,Rep. Sewells Statement on Nomination of Judge Amy Coney Barrett to United States Supreme Court,2020-09-26,2020,2020-09,Democrat,Senate,AL,Terri Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. - U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) released the following statement on President Trump's nomination of Judge Amy Coney Barrett to replace Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg as Associate Justice on the Supreme Court: The Supreme Court nomination by President Trump today, with the 2020 presidential election only 38 days away, denies the American people a voice in this very important decision. The nomination of Judge Amy Coney Barrett is clearly tainted by the hypocrisy of Senate Republicans to go back on their own promise not to fill a vacancy on the Supreme Court so close to a presidential election. This standard articulated by Senate Republicans was applied against President Obama's nomination of Judge Merrick Garland eight months before the 2016 presidential election. This blatant power grab by Trump and Senate Republicans is especially disturbing given that the voting process has already begun with hundreds of thousands of voters having cast their ballots in the 2020 presidential election. Fairness and comity demand that the Senate not confirm any vacancy on the Supreme Court until the American people have chosen the next president. To do otherwise, I believe would undermine the very legitimacy of the Supreme Court. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.jones.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-doug-jones-statement-on-filling-the-supreme-court-vacancy-just-weeks-before-presidential-election,Senator Doug Jones Statement on Filling the Supreme Court Vacancy Just Weeks Before Presidential Election,2020-09-25,2020,2020-09,Democrat,House,AL,Doug Jones,J000300,www.jones.senate.gov,,,legacy,"BIRMINGHAM U.S. Senator Doug Jones of Alabama today issued the following statement on the Supreme Court vacancy created by Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg's passing: Justice Ginsburg was a role model and an inspiration. She was a brilliant and tireless advocate, a champion for fairness and equality, and her efforts have brought our country closer to the ideals upon which it was founded. It is a poor reflectionofthe state of our national politics that, just hours afterJustice Ginsburg'spassing, we were thrust into a divisive partisan fight over her successor, denying the nation the time to mourn this extraordinary American's death. Just weeks from a national election, we are confronting a blatant power grab by Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and the President that will undermine the court and subvert the will of the American people. Just four years ago, Leader McConnell held open a Supreme Court seat for ten months before a presidential election because he said time and again that, in an election year, we must let the American people decide. If confirming a Supreme Court justice ten months prior to a presidential election would have denied the American people a voice,then isn't he now denying the American people a voice by rushing to confirm a justice just weeks before a presidential election? I believe the answer to this question is a resounding YES.This is especially true given the urgent legislative work we have yet to do. Leader McConnell should turn his focus instead to protecting the lives and livelihoods of the American people by bringing a new bipartisan COVID-19 relief package up for a vote.We also need to pass theNational Defense Authorization Actto support our military.We need to pass our annual funding bills instead of kicking the can down the road with yet another costly continuing resolution.We need to pass theJohnLewisVoting RightsAdvancementAct, whichhas languished in this Senate,in order to protect the right of all Americans to vote and participate in our democracy. Consequently, under these circumstances, I will not support the confirmation of any Supreme Court justice nominee before the election. We should not force the country into a brutal and divisive partisan confirmation fight while Americans are already voting to choose the next President. If President Trump is re-elected, I will evaluate any pending or future nominee on their merits and vote for or against the nominee based solely on their qualifications. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.jones.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-doug-jones-leads-bipartisan-bill-to-help-combat-veteran-suicide,Senator Doug Jones Leads Bipartisan Bill to Help Combat Veteran Suicide,2020-09-24,2020,2020-09,Democrat,House,AL,Doug Jones,J000300,www.jones.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON U.S. Senator Doug Jones of Alabamatodayintroduced a bipartisan bill to help combat veteran suicide. The bill, which is also cosponsored by Senators Joni Ernst of Iowa and Maggie Hassan of New Hampshire, would designate one week per year as Buddy Check Week to organize outreach events and educate veterans on how to conduct peer wellness checks. Service men and women give so much to our country, and we have a solemn obligation to do everything we can to support them,said Senator Jones,a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee.It's so important that we destigmatize mental health issues, especially for veterans. This bill would help connect veterans with the resources available to them and ensure that they get the support they need. Our most sacred responsibility as a nation is to care for our fellow men and women who have served this nation with honor. The American Legion has long had aBuddy Check Week,'asking our Legionnaires to conduct veteran outreach as part of their daily routine,said James W. Bill Oxford, National Commander for The American Legion.The American Legion'sBuddy Check'program has been a great tool for our members, and we strongly support legislation that expands this program to VA. This week, the U.S. House of Representatives also passed Senator Jones' bill, the Commander John Scott Hannon Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act, to help prevent veteran suicide by providing to $174 million during the next five years to state and local organizations that provide suicide-prevention services to veterans and their families. That bill previously passed the Senate and will now go to President Trump to be signed into law. From his position on the Senate Armed Services Committee, Senator Jones has been a vocal advocate on behalf of all whoserve or have served in our nation's armed forces.Senator Jones has also secured hundreds of millions of dollars in funding for Alabama's military installations and service members, and he led a successful fight to repeal a decades-old law that hurt surviving military spouses, called the widow's tax, last year. Background: The bill will designate one week per year as Buddy Check Week to organize outreach events and educate veterans on how to conduct peer wellness checks and recognize signs of suicide risk among fellow veterans. The bill is modeled after the American Legion'sBuddy Check National Week of Callingto connect veterans to better ensure that they receive the care they need. Specifically, the bill directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs (VA), in consultation with veterans, non-profits that serve veterans, mental health experts, and members of the Armed Forces, to develop and implement collaborative education opportunities for veterans to learn how to conduct wellness checks. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/immediate-release-rep-sewell-votes-keep-government-open-and-extend-vital,FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Rep. Sewell Votes to Keep Government Open and Extend Vital Programs,2020-09-22,2020,2020-09,Democrat,Senate,AL,Terri Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. Today, Congresswoman Sewell voted in support of the continuing resolution legislation H.R. 8337, which provides for the continuation of funding for the programs contained in the 12 annual appropriation acts for FY2020. The bill passed the House in a final vote of 359-57-1. I voted for today's legislation to avert a catastrophic government shutdown and fund the critical programs that my constituents depend on. At a time when our country is in the middle of a pandemic and millions of Americans are losing their homes and livelihoods to natural disasters, including hurricanes on the Gulf Coast, our government needs to be fully funded and operational so that the American people can get the resources they need, said Rep. Sewell. I am particularly proud of the provisions Democrats secured to save our seniors from a Medicare Part B premium hike, protect health, housing, and other programs for Veterans, and to provide repayment relief for our health care providers at the frontlines of the COVID-19 pandemic. While I'm disappointed that Senate Republicans and White House didn't come to the table to agree to pass the long-term FY2021 funding bills that the House passed earlier this year, I look forward to working with my colleagues to make sure a long-term funding bill is passed before this CR expires in December. Additionally, an agreement on further Coronavirus relief legislation is desperately needed. Millions of Americans have lost their jobs and as the pandemic continues, municipalities, health care providers, essential workers, and small businesses are running out of resources from the CARES Act and relief is needed now. A list of the programs that Congresswoman Sewell worked directly with House appropriators to secure in the FY2020 funding bill, which are extended by today's continuing resolution, H.R. 8337, can be found here. Today's bill includes several other funding provisions that Congresswoman Sewell fought in recent months to secure and that benefit the 7th District, including funding and extensions for the following programs, among others. Rural Water and Waste Disposal Program Loans Summer Electronic Benefits Transfer for Children (Summer EBT) program Commodity Supplemental Food program Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program 2020 Decennial Census Program Community Health Centers Teaching Health Centers Graduate Medical Education Program Special Diabetes Program Grants for transportation to VA medical facilities for Veterans living in highly rural areas Childcare assistance for Veterans while they receive health care at a VA facility An initiative to assess the feasibility of paying for veterans in highly rural areas to travel to the nearest Vet Center, a community-based facility that provides readjustment counseling and other services The Department of Labor's homeless veteran reintegration programs, such as job training, counseling, and placement services Further, today's legislation: Ensures USDA can fully meet the demand for Direct and Guaranteed Farm Ownership loans, especially for beginning and socially disadvantaged farmers. Allows increased flexibility for the Small Business Administration to process certain small business loans and SBA Disaster Loans. Provides a one-year extension for surface transportation programs, including federal highway, transit, and road safety programs. Reauthorizes the Appalachian Regional Commission for one year. Delays a scheduled $4 billion reduction in funding for disproportionate share hospital (DSH), which are hospitals that serve large numbers of low-income and uninsured patients. Protects Medicare beneficiaries from the expected increase in Part B premiums for 2021 that is likely to result from the COVID-19 public health emergency. Provides repayment relief to health care providers by extending the time in which they must repay advances and reducing the interest rate under the Medicare Accelerated and Advance Payment program until the end of the COVID-19 pandemic. Allows Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to use the full amount available in the Disaster Relief Fund to respond to declared disasters. Increases accountability in the Commodity Credit Corporation, preventing funds for farmers from being misused for large oil companies. Ensures schoolchildren receive meals despite the pandemic's disruption of their usual schedules, whether virtual or in-person, and expands Pandemic EBT access for young children in childcare. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/video-rep-sewells-trade-bill-caribbean-basin-countries-passes-house,VIDEO: Rep. Sewell's Trade Bill with Caribbean Basin Countries Passes House with Bipartisan Support,2020-09-22,2020,2020-09,Democrat,Senate,AL,Terri Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) applauded the passage of H.R. 991, a bipartisan bill, she introduced to reauthorize the U.S. Caribbean Basin Trade Partnership Act (CBTPA) until September 2030. The legislation passed the House by unanimous voice vote. The CBTPA is a preferential trade agreement that provides for duty and quota-free access for apparel products manufactured in designated beneficiary Caribbean Basin region countries. CBTPA also requires that Caribbean Basin countries use U.S. formed yarns, fabrics, and thread. The CBTPA was first enacted in 2000 and is currently authorized through September 30, 2020. Eligible CBTPA countries include Barbados, Belize, Curacao, Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica, St. Lucia, and Trinidad and Tobago. As the lead sponsor of the legislation to reauthorize the Caribbean Basin Trade Partnership Act, I am thrilled that Congress is taking action on this issue before the program expires at the end of the month,"" said Rep. Sewell. ""CBTPA is such an important economic tool for the United States and each of our partner countries, and it is critical to our continued diplomatic relationships in the Caribbean Basin. The bipartisan effort to reauthorize this program will allow us to export more American-made goods and strengthen Western supply chains, while contributing to economic development and job creation in Haiti and other countries throughout the Caribbean Basin region. I am grateful for its passage by unanimous voice vote in the House, and I urge the Senate to take up this bill before the September 30th deadline. ""I am incredibly grateful for Congresswoman Sewell's commitment to economic prosperity in the Republic of Haiti and the Caribbean region. The Extension of the Caribbean Basin Economic Recovery Act (CBERA), H.R. 991, which has received bipartisan and bicameral support, is a testament to Congress' unwavering support for working families in Haiti and CARICOM countries. This legislation has created countless jobs and generated billions of dollars in revenue over the past decade, said Ambassador Herve Denis. ""Furthermore, CBTPA would play a crucial role in strengthening the supply chains for PPEs and textiles in response to COVID-19, making America less dependent on nations outside the Western Hemisphere. With the issues regarding China, Haiti hopes and expects to benefit from the ""Near-Shoring"" concept introduced by Congress. Together, we can continue to strengthen bilateral trade relations between two of the oldest republics in the Americas."" I'm proud to support our nation's trade preference programs, which bolster further economic expansion in developing nations and support jobs here in America a true win-win scenario, said Rep. Brad Wenstrup (R-OH), Republican lead co-sponsor. In particular, our bipartisan bill to extend the Caribbean Basin Trade Partnership Act accomplishes that goal in the Caribbean, providing trade benefits to eight Caribbean nations, most notably Haiti. I want to thank Congresswoman Terri Sewell for partnering with me on this important legislation and urge the Senate to consider it without delay. Together, the Caribbean Basin Economic Recovery Act (CBERA) and the CBTPA are collectively known as the Caribbean Basin Initiative (CBI). These two acts work together to facilitate the development of 17 independent countries of the Caribbean Basin region. For these two preferential trade programs to be effective, both CBTPA and CBERA must be authorized. Eligible CBERA countries include Antigua and Barbuda, Aruba, the Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, the British Virgin Islands, Curacao, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica, Montserrat, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines and Trinidad and Tobago. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.jones.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-doug-jones-introduces-legislation-to-encourage-investments-in-banks-that-serve-minority-communities,Senator Doug Jones Introduces Legislation to Encourage Investments in Banks that Serve Minority Communities,2020-09-22,2020,2020-09,Democrat,House,AL,Doug Jones,J000300,www.jones.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON U.S. Senator Doug Jones of Alabama today introduced legislation to encourage investments in financial institutions that serve minority communities. The bill would help increase investments by changing current rules to allow minority-owned banks, community banks with under $10 billion in deposits, and Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) to accept brokered deposits, or investments with high interest rates, which would bolster these institutions and encourage them to invest and lend in their communities.It also allows low-income and minority credit unions to access the NCUA's Community Development Revolving Loan Fund. One of the biggest hurdles for minority entrepreneurs is access to capital,saidSenator Jones, a member of the Senate Banking Committee.That's why this bill is so important. Increasing access to capital at the banks that serve minority communities will help expand financial opportunities for individuals and business owners in those communities. Commonwealth National Bank would like to thank Senator Jones for his leadership in introducing theMinority Depository Institution and Community Bank Deposit Access Act.As a small Alabama home grown institution, this proposal will allow us to accept needed deposits without the current limitations that hinder our ability to better serve the historically underserved communities that our institutions were created to serve.We support your efforts and encourage you to keep fighting the good fight for all of America,said Sidney King, President and CEO, Commonwealth National Bank. TheMinority Depository Institution and Community Bank Deposit Access Actis a welcomed first step in helping Minority Depository Institutions like our National Bankers Association member banks develop the kinds of national deposit networks that allow our institutionsto compete for deposits with larger banks and to better meet the credit needs of the communities we serve.The National Bankers Association commends Senator Jones' leadership on this issue, and we look forward to continuing to engage with him on the ultimate passage of this proposal,saidKenneth Kelly, Chairman, National Bankers Association. During his time in the Senate, Senator Jones has been an advocate for minority-serving financial institutions. In April, he urged the Federal Reserve and the U.S. Treasury to take emergency measures to support CDFIs and minority-owned banks that have been disproportionately affected by the COVID pandemic. He also supported efforts to negotiate additional funds for small community banks, minority-owned banks, and CDFIs in the recent Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) replenishment, giving small businesses and minority business owners better access to the PPP program through small community banks and CDFIs. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.jones.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-doug-jones-statement-on-the-passing-of-justice-ruth-bader-ginsburg,Senator Doug Jones Statement on the Passing of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg,2020-09-18,2020,2020-09,Democrat,House,AL,Doug Jones,J000300,www.jones.senate.gov,,,legacy,"BIRMINGHAM U.S. Senator Doug Jones of Alabama tonight issued the following statement on the news of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg's death: This news is a devastating loss for our country and for all those who have been inspired by the inimitable Justice Ginsburg during her long and historic career. Justice Ginsburg led a life guided by principle and filled with purpose. A true trailblazer in the legal field in her own right, she inspired generations of young women to reach for heights that previously felt impossible. Through her quiet dignity, her willingness to bridge political divides, and her steady pursuit of justice, she was a standard-bearer for positive leadership. Her bold dissents in theLedbetter v. Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co.andShelby County v. Holdercases are particularly meaningful to me, and to so many in Alabama and across the country. She stood for what was right and for the constitutional principles of equality and democracy that she held dear, even if it meant she was in the minority on the Court. As only the second woman to ever serve on the Court, she made full use of her opportunity to serve as a voice for women on the bench. Beyond her legal acumen, Justice Ginsburg will also be remembered for her sharp wit, her tireless advocacy for voting rights, and her historic role in fighting for a more equal society for women across the country. She will be greatly missed. Louise and I extend our sincerest condolences to Justice Ginsburg's loved ones. We're praying for them as they grieve this tremendous loss. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-votes-favor-sweeping-education-legislation-fulfill-promise,Rep. Sewell Votes in Favor of Sweeping Education Legislation to Fulfill the Promise of Equity in Our Schools,2020-09-17,2020,2020-09,Democrat,House,AL,Terri Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC- This week, Congresswoman Terri Sewell voted in favor of H.R. 2639, the Strength in Diversity Act of 2020 and H.R. 2574, the Equity and Inclusion Enforcement Act (EIEA). The Strength in Diversity Act passed the House of Representatives 248-167 on Tuesday and the Equity and Inclusion Enforcement Act (EIEA) passed 232-188 on Wednesday. The Strength In Diversity Act helps fulfill the promise of equity in education by offering support to districts that are developing, implementing, or expanding school diversity initiatives, whereas The Equity and Inclusion Enforcement Act takes steps to hold federally funded programs, including schools, accountable for their responsibility to provide all students with equal opportunity for a quality education. As the proud product of Alabama's public schools and the state's first Black Congresswoman, I am profoundly aware of the equalizing power of a good education. Segregation and discrimination in public schools robbed generations before me of academic and economic opportunity, the long-term effects of which are still evident in our most vulnerable communities, Rep. Sewell said. While we have seen many strides forward in the 66 years since Brown v. Board of Education, the remnants of discrimination and inequality can still be seen today in school districts across the country, including the Black Belt. No child's education should be relegated by race or income lines in America, but it has unfortunately been the reality for generations of students. The time is now to provide the long overdue equality and justice all children deserve to grow up with. This legislation directly confronts injustice with solutions for District 7, where due to school funding policies enacted over a century ago the state is spending upwards of $5,000 less per pupil in the majority-Black Birmingham City School system than neighboring school districts with lower poverty rates. As the COVID-19 pandemic threatens to further widen achievement gaps for our most vulnerable children, I stand with our public schools who are currently forced to do more with less in passing the Strength in Diversity Act and the Equity and Inclusion Enforcement Act. Background Information: The Strength in Diversity Act (H.R.2639): Establishes a grant program that provides federal funding to support voluntary local efforts to increase diversity in schools. Supports the development and maintenance of best practices for grantees and experts in the field of school diversity. Grant funding would be available to school districts, independently or in collaboration with neighboring districts, as well as regional educational authorities and educational service agencies. The Equity and Inclusion Enforcement Act (H.R. 2574): Restores the private right of action for students and parents to bring disparate impact claims under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act. Creates Title VI monitors to ensure that every school district and institution of higher education has at least one employee to specifically responsible for investigating any complaints of discrimination based on race, color, or national origin. Creates an Assistant Secretary in the Department of Education to coordinate and promote Title VI enforcement in education. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/video-rep-sewell-hosts-discussion-2020-census-local-officials-upcoming,VIDEO: Rep. Sewell Hosts a Discussion on the 2020 Census with Local Officials in Upcoming Terri Talk,2020-09-17,2020,2020-09,Democrat,House,AL,Terri Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,,,legacy,"Birmingham, AL- Yesterday, Congresswoman Terri Sewell hosted a special edition of her weekly Terri Talks to discuss the importance of Alabama District 7's participation in the 2020 Census with a panel of local officials including Alabama Partnership Coordinator for the U.S. Census Bureau Carletta Singleton; Perry County Commissioner Albert Turner Jr; Sumter County Commissioner Marcus Campbell; and Wilcox County Commissioner John Moton. ""Ensuring an accurate count in the 2020 Census is critically important to all of us. It is more challenging than ever in the midst of a pandemic. However, the pandemic and the inequities it has brought to light make an accurate Census count more important than ever. There are so many resources our community depends upon that are based on population.,"" said Rep. Sewell, ""The Federal funding that we receive is immense: for every one dollar the State of Alabama sends, we receive two dollars and it's based on population. When I think about all the needs in Alabama's 7th Congressional District, we can ill-afford to not be counted in the Census."" ""Today, we received sobering news. Alabama is now LAST in the nation in Census response with only 62% of all Alabama households having responded. The news is even more sobering for Alabama's 7th Congressional District because we are at 6.8% below the State of Alabama in our return. In our District the return rate for the 14 counties is 53.8%. Devastating. The time for Alabamians to be counted is running out with the Census deadline being moved up to September, 30. According to a George Washington University study each Alabamaian that is not counted represents $1,600 so it is vital you and everyone in your household is counted. The reason we have these three County Commissioners here with us today is because some of the lowest rates are in the Black Belt and we want to discuss what we can do in these communities to increase the rate of return,"" stated Rep. Sewell. To watch the full Alabama District 7 COUNTS in the 2020 Census Terri Talk, click here. BACKGROUND INFORMATION: There are three ways to complete your 2020 Census: Complete it online at www.my2020census.gov. (Note: The Census ID number included on your original invitation letter is not required to complete the census online.) Call the U.S. Census Bureau toll-free 844-330-2020. Telephone assistance is also available in multiple languages: https://www.census.gov/programs-surveys/decennial-census/2020-census/planning-management/memo-series/2020-memo-2019_18.html Return the paper form included with your invitation letter ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.jones.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-doug-jones-proposes-bipartisan-loan-forgiveness-legislation-for-disaster-hit-small-businesses,Senator Doug Jones Proposes Bipartisan Loan Forgiveness Legislation for Disaster-Hit Small Businesses,2020-09-17,2020,2020-09,Democrat,House,AL,Doug Jones,J000300,www.jones.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.Today, U.S Senate Doug Jonesof Alabamaand Senator John Kennedy (R-La.) introduced theDisaster Relief for Southeastern Small Businesses Act of 2020.This bill would forgive small business loans made under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security(CARES)Act.The Disaster Relief for Southeastern Small Businesses Actestablishes an easy process for businesses in counties with major disaster declarations from Hurricane Sally to seek forgiveness for Paycheck Protection Program loans and Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL). As folks across South Alabama begin the work to recover and rebuild after Hurricane Sally, Ibelieve Congress should be assisting them in any way we can,said Senator Jones.That's why I'm joining Senator Kennedy, from our neighbor Louisiana, to introduce bipartisan legislation that ensures small businesses impacted by Hurricanes Sally and Laura can benefit from loan forgiveness for COVID-19 relief programs. Alabama's Main Street businesses have struggled already during the pandemic, and Hurricane Sally is yet another devastating hit. This legislation will cut through government red tape and allow forgiveness of business loans received as part of our CARES legislation as they continue to re-open and re-build. It is one way we can help them survive these compounding disasters and continue to serve our communities and create jobs. Impacted businesses must provide their lenders with an attestation form stating that the business used the loans as intended in order to receive loan forgiveness. In order to prevent fraud and ensure transparency, the Small Business Administration (SBA) Administrator would have the authority to review and audit forgiven loans. The Paycheck Protection Program(PPP)closed at the end of August 8, 2020. As a result, the SBA is no longer accepting applications from participating lenders. Alabama businesses received 70,331 PPP loans totaling $6.245 billion.As of August 8, 2020, a total of 41,243 EIDL loans totaling $1.84 billion have been issued by the SBA to small businesses in Alabama. BACKGROUND From his seat on the Senate Banking Committee,Senator Jones has been astrongadvocate forAlabama's small businessesbefore and throughouttheCOVID-19pandemic. In May, hecalledfor increased guidance and loan forgiveness for small businesses who have applied under thePPPandsupportedlegislation toreplenish PPP funds and ensureadditional reliefwould be available to Alabama'ssmall businesses.He also introduced legislation to fund the payrolls of eligible businesses called thePaycheck Security Act to keep businesses afloat and workers paid during the pandemic. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.jones.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-doug-jones-on-government-watchdogs-recommendations-to-improve-administrations-tariff-exclusion-process,Senator Doug Jones on Government Watchdog’s Recommendations to Improve Administration’s Tariff Exclusion Process,2020-09-16,2020,2020-09,Democrat,House,AL,Doug Jones,J000300,www.jones.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.U.S. Senator Doug Jones of Alabamatodayissued a response tothe Government Accountability Office's(GAO)recommendations to the U.S. Department of Commerce on how to improve its tariffexclusion request process andthe need to follow through witheconomic impact reviews of tariffs. In 2018, Senator Jones, along with Senators Pat Toomey (R-Pa.) and Tom Carper (D-Del.),requestedthat the GAO review the Commerce Department's tariff exclusion process. TheGAO reportindicated that the Department of Commerce, when deciding whether to grant an exclusion, often gave disproportionate weight to the objections of domestic producers, even if the producer did not provide evidence that they could domestically provide the needed steel or aluminum within a reasonable timeline. This finding raises significant questions about the fairness of the Section 232 tariff exclusion review process. The GAO's findings affirm what thousands of businesses around the country have known to be true: the administration's rush to enact tariffs was a costly mess,said Senator Jones.Its tariff exclusion process stood up by the Commerce Department was quickly overwhelmed and backlogged, leading American businesses to pay tariffs they shouldn't owe and to spend months trying to resolve their claim with the Department. While this report isn't surprising, I hope this serves as a wake-up call for the Administration to reevaluate its tariffs that have been hurting our own economy, while failing to hold bad actors like China accountable. Steel and aluminum tariffs, which were dubiously justified with a claim of national security,' have cost American consumers billions of dollars and the state of Pennsylvania manufacturing jobs,said Senator Toomey.The administration should eliminate these taxes altogether. In addition, the Commerce Department should quickly adopt GAO's recommendations for reducing applicant errors and making exemption decisions faster. Furthermore, it's long past time for the Commerce Department to comply with the law that required them to release the 232 auto report by January 19, 2020. Unfortunately, yesterday's report from GAO confirms what my staff and I have heard from too many Delaware manufacturers who have been seeking relief from these misguided tariffs implemented by the Trump Administration. There have been, rightfully, bipartisan concerns about the convoluted and lengthy exclusion process that the Commerce Department created, but what is equally concerning in light of this report are GAO's findings that the Commerce Department failed to apply its own review criteria consistently. Combined with concerns raised by the Commerce Department's Office of Inspector General in October of last year regarding improper influence in the review process, these findings raise significant questions about the fundamental fairness of the exclusion process. The workers and businesses that drive our economy are already facing enough extraordinary challenges due to the ongoing pandemic. The federal government should be doing everything possible to provide more certainty and predictability for manufacturers seeking relief not playing favorites,said Senator Carper.I want to thank the men and women at GAO, our government's independent watchdog, who conducted this review. It is my sincere hope that the Commerce Department will finally conduct and publish the economic impact analysis of these tariffs that is long overdue and implement GAO's thoughtful recommendations so as to not negatively impact American manufacturers any further. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.jones.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-doug-jones-calls-for-unity-on-57th-anniversary-of-birmingham-church-bombing,Senator Doug Jones Calls for Unity on 57th Anniversary of Birmingham Church Bombing,2020-09-15,2020,2020-09,Democrat,House,AL,Doug Jones,J000300,www.jones.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON U.S. Senator Doug Jones of Alabama today took to the Senate floor to commemorate the 57th anniversary of the 16th Street Baptist Church bombing in Birmingham, Alabama and to call for unity in the wake of civil rights protests this summer. As U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Alabama, Senator Jones successfully prosecuted two of the former Klansmen responsible for the bombing. Four young girls were killed in that blast. Addie Mae Collins, Cynthia Wesley, Denise McNair, and Carole Robertson. Killed senselessly simply because of the color of their skin,Senator Jones said. He continued:That bomb woke the conscience of America. The horrors of Jim Crow and segregation came home to roost, came home to the television sets across this country, and people stood up and made their voices known and said enough is enough not just to Birmingham and the South, but enough is enough in this country. We cannot overlook the historic moment that we are in today, where once again our conscience is getting the best of us, where we see the images of George Floyd and Breonna Taylor and Ahmaud Arbery and Jacob Blake, but we also see something else. We see the images of violence. We see looting. We see the images of two police officers in Los Angeles who were brutally, brutally attacked while just sitting in their car,Senator Jones continued.It is incumbent upon us all to do something about it to have the frank discussions about what we know is going on in law enforcement, but also the violence that we see in the streets. And it's got to stop. We have to come together. We have to do what John Lewis talked about and make sure that love conquers hate,he concluded.We need to remember our faith, folks. We need to remember who we are as a country. You can view Senator Jones' speechhere. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sewell.house.gov/grants/guide-grants/guide-2-grants-issue-360-march-2-2020,"Guide 2 Grants Issue 360-March 2, 2020",2020-09-10,2020,2020-09,Democrat,House,AL,Terri Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,,,legacy,"908 Alabama Avenue Federal Building, Suite 112",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sewell.house.gov/grants/guide-grants/guide-2-grants-issue-361-march-17-2020,"Guide 2 Grants Issue 361- March 17, 2020",2020-09-10,2020,2020-09,Democrat,House,AL,Terri Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,,,legacy,"908 Alabama Avenue Federal Building, Suite 112",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sewell.house.gov/grants/guide-grants/guide-2-grants-issue-362-april-1-2020,"Guide 2 Grants-Issue 362-April 1, 2020",2020-09-10,2020,2020-09,Democrat,House,AL,Terri Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,,,legacy,"908 Alabama Avenue Federal Building, Suite 112",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sewell.house.gov/grants/guide-grants/guide-2-grants-issue-363-april-15-2020,"Guide 2 Grants-Issue 363 April 15,, 2020",2020-09-10,2020,2020-09,Democrat,House,AL,Terri Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,,,legacy,"908 Alabama Avenue Federal Building, Suite 112",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sewell.house.gov/grants/guide-grants/guide-2-grants-issue-364-may-1-2020,"Guide 2 Grants- Issue 364, May 1, 2020",2020-09-10,2020,2020-09,Democrat,House,AL,Terri Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,,,legacy,"908 Alabama Avenue Federal Building, Suite 112",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sewell.house.gov/grants/guide-grants/guide-2-grants-issue-365-june-15-2020,"Guide 2 Grants-Issue 365-June 15, 2020",2020-09-10,2020,2020-09,Democrat,House,AL,Terri Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,,,legacy,"908 Alabama Avenue Federal Building, Suite 112",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sewell.house.gov/grants/guide-grants/guide-2-grants-issue-366-july-15-2020,"Guide 2 Grants-Issue 366-July 15, 2020",2020-09-10,2020,2020-09,Democrat,House,AL,Terri Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,,,legacy,"908 Alabama Avenue Federal Building, Suite 112",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sewell.house.gov/grants/guide-grants/guide-2-grants-issue-367-august-1-2020,"Guide 2 Grants-Issue 367-August 1, 2020",2020-09-10,2020,2020-09,Democrat,House,AL,Terri Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,,,legacy,"908 Alabama Avenue Federal Building, Suite 112",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sewell.house.gov/grants/guide-grants/guide-2-grants-issue-368-september-1-2020,"Guide 2 Grants-Issue 368-September 1, 2020",2020-09-10,2020,2020-09,Democrat,House,AL,Terri Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,,,legacy,"908 Alabama Avenue Federal Building, Suite 112",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.jones.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-doug-jones-announces-military-service-academy-nomination-applications-now-available,Senator Doug Jones Announces Military Service Academy Nomination Applications Now Available,2020-09-08,2020,2020-09,Democrat,House,AL,Doug Jones,J000300,www.jones.senate.gov,,,legacy,"BIRMINGHAMU.S. Senator Doug Jonesof Alabamatoday announced the portal for students interested in applying for amilitary serviceacademy nominations is now open.Last year, 23 Alabamians who received nominations from Senator Jones were accepted into the U.S. military service academies. Anyeligibleindividual interested in attending one of the academies must first apply directly to the academy. To complete the admissions process, the applicant must also receive a nomination from a member of Congress or the Vice President in order to be offered an appointment to anacademy. As a U.S. Senator, I have the honor of nominatingmotivatedyoung adults toattendournation's prestigiousmilitary service academies. Attending a militaryserviceacademyis an incredible privilege reserved for our best and brightest, and I'm proud to have supported dozens of Alabamians in their pursuit of this honor. I look forward to nominatinga new class of talentedstudentswho will go on to represent Alabama and serve our country well,said Senator Jones, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee. For more information about the nomination process, please visit:https://www.jones.senate.gov/help/academy-nominations.If you're ready to start an application,please click here. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.jones.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-doug-jones-announces-bipartisan-bicameral-legislation-to-improve-recruitment-and-retention-of-women-and-minority-service-members,"Senator Doug Jones Announces Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation to Improve Recruitment and Retention of Women and Minority Service Members",2020-08-27,2020,2020-08,Democrat,House,AL,Doug Jones,J000300,www.jones.senate.gov,,,legacy,"BIRMINGHAM, ALA.U.S. Senator Doug Jones of Alabama today announced he will introduce new legislation tocodify amendments included in theHouse-passed version of theFiscal Year 2021National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) to improvediversity and inclusion within the armed services. Congressman Anthony Brown (MD-04) introduced bipartisancompanion legislation in the House of Representatives yesterday. Although we've made progress, there is still work to be done to ensure that our military fosters an inclusive environment that can attract, retain, and advance our nation's top talent. I am proud to lead this legislation in the Senate and to advocate for continued efforts to diversify and strengthen our armed forces. We have the greatest military in the world, and this effort will ensure we can tap into the strengths of Americans who for too long have been underrepresented throughout our ranks,saidSenator Jones, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee. In 2011, the Military Leadership Diversity Commission submitted recommendations that are the basis for many of these measures. The inclusion ofthese provisionsin the Diversity in Defense Act andinthe FY21NDAAare someof the most significant steps towards diversity and inclusionin our militarysince the desegregation of the armed forces in 1948. From his positiononthe Senate Armed Services Committee, Senator Jones haspushedfor policies and investments that will help increase diversity and expand support forfemale andminority service members, who are often underrepresented in elite units and in the military's upper ranks. He alsochampionedlegislation that was included in the FY20 NDAAto address the shortage ofmilitarypilots and lack of diversity inthe pilot corps. TheDiversity in Defense Actincludes the followingkeyprovisions: Establishment of Mentoring and Career Counseling Program.Directs the Department to create a mentoring and career counseling program that ensures that all military occupational specialties and career fields reflect the demographics of thearmed forces. Diversity in Selection Boards.Requires membership of selection boards to represent the diversity of thearmed forcesas a whole. Redaction of Personally Identifiable Information from Records Furnished to a Promotion Board. Requires the Secretary of each Military Department to redact any personally identifiable information from records furnished to a promotion board. Plans to Increase Female and Minority Representation in the Armed Forces.Directs the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of each Military Department will develop plans to increase female and minority representation in recruiting, retention, and ranks above the grade of E-7. Establishment of Diversity and Inclusion Advisory Council of the Department of Defenseto provide advice and recommendations to the Secretary on matters concerning diversity and inclusion in the Department of Defense. Diversity and Inclusion Reporting Requirements.Sets forth specific criteria and requirements for reports related to diversity and inclusion that are to be submitted to Congress. Chief Diversity Officers.Establishes a Chief Diversity Officer for the Department of Defenseand requires that the Chief Diversity Officer report directly to the Secretary of Defense. Establishes a similar Officer and reporting structure for the Departmentsof the Army, Navy, Air Force, and the Coast Guard. Report on Demographics of Officers Appointed to Certain Grades.Requires each Secretary of a Military Department to submit a report to the Armed Services Committees summarizing the gender and race of each individual who received an appointment under section 531 or 601 of Title 10 during the immediately preceding fiscal year. Establishment of Special Inspector General for Racial and Ethnic Disparities in the Armed Forces.Creates a Special IG look into racial and ethnic disparities in the military and in the military justice system. The Special IG would have the authority to make recommendations for improvements, and the Special IG would also be able to look into recruitment and promotion processes, as well as investigate white supremacist activity. Plan to Improve Responses to Pregnancy and Childbirth by Members of the Armed Forces and Employees of the Department of Defense. Requires the Secretary of Defense to develop a plan to ensure members of the Armed Forces who are pregnant or recently gave birth will not have their careers unduly affected. Pilot Program for the Temporary Issuance of Maternity-Related Uniform Items.Directs the department to carry out a pilot program to enable the establishment of offices to issue maternity-related uniform items to pregnant members of the Armed Forces on a temporary basis at no cost to the servicemember. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-votes-favor-delivering-america-act-protect-united-states,Rep. Sewell Votes in Favor of the Delivering for America Act to Protect the United States Postal Service,2020-08-22,2020,2020-08,Democrat,House,AL,Terri Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. Today, Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) voted in favor of H.R. 8015, the Delivering for America Act, which provides $25 billion in critical emergency funding for the United States Postal Service (USPS) to maintain its high level of service. The American public depends on the USPS as not only a critical pathway to vote by mail, but to send and receive crucial packages, including prescriptions and paychecks during this pandemic. In the recent weeks, we have seen this administration push forward sweeping new operational changes that degrade postal service, delay the mail and threaten to deny the ability of eligible Americans to cast their votes through the mail in the upcoming elections in a timely fashion. President Trump has made it clear that he is willing to derail the Postal Service for the purpose of undermining the upcoming election,Sewell said. As a proud daughter of Selma, I have made it my mission in Congress to continue the unparalleled legacy of my friend, mentor and hero, Congressman John Lewis. I will continue to fight tirelessly to eradicate voter suppression and this is no exception. Across Alabama, USPS employs nearly 8,000 men and women who are currently serving on the front lines of this pandemic to ensure the vital postal needs of the American public are met,Sewellcontinued. I am proud to stand with these essential workers in supporting this legislation, which contains critically important measures to provide security and additional support for the postal service, and all Alabamians impacted by this pandemic. H.R. 8015 includes a number of critical provisions that would protect the USPS from catastrophic operational changes as well as provide necessary fiscal relief for the agency: Includes $25 billion in emergency funding requested by the Postal Service with the unanimous support of the bipartisan Postal Board of Governorsall of whom were appointed by President Trump.This funding was also included in the Heroes Act, which the U.S. House of Representatives passed this request three months ago as part of the Heroes Act. Additionally, H.R. 8015 would prohibit any changes that would: Generally affect service on a substantially nationwide basis. Revise existing service standards, prevent the USPS from meeting its service standards, or cause a decline in performance measurement. Consolidate or reduce hours of any postal office or postal facility or prohibit overtime pay. Delay mail delivery or increase volume of undelivered mail. Require the Postal Service to treat all official election mail as First-Class mail. Prohibit the removal of mailboxes and the removal, decommissioning, or other stoppage of mail sorting machines, other than for routine maintenance; Explicitly reverse any changes already implemented to the operations or policies of the Postal Service that delay mail delivery. Video of Sewell on the importance of the U.S. Postal Servicehere. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.jones.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-doug-jones-statement-on-mcconnells-decision-to-adjourn-the-senate-until-september-without-a-covid-relief-deal,Senator Doug Jones Statement on McConnell’s Decision to Adjourn the Senate Until September Without a COVID Relief Deal,2020-08-14,2020,2020-08,Democrat,House,AL,Doug Jones,J000300,www.jones.senate.gov,,,legacy,"BIRMINGHAM U.S. Senator Doug Jones of Alabama today released the following statement on the news that Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell has adjourned the Senate until September 8thwithout securing a deal on a COVID relief package: Mitch McConnell's decision to adjourn the Senate without any further efforts to fulfill the Senate's obligation to the American public during a healthcare and economic crisis demonstrates an unconscionable failure of leadership. Congress acted swiftly in March as the pandemic took hold and every American who put their lives on hold and stayed home for weeks to prevent the spread of COVID-19 did so out of a patriotic duty and a belief that it would give our government leaders time to implement a plan to get this virus under control. Now, it's been five months and not only do we still have no national strategy, our nation is facing some of the highest rates of coronavirus spread in the world, over 167,000 Americans dead, unprecedented housing and eviction crises on the horizon, and we are slowly coming out of the worst economy since the Great Depression and the highest level of unemployment ever recorded. The House of Representatives passed a relief bill on May 15th three months ago because it was clear even then that this virus would be with us longer than we had hoped and that more support to American businesses and American citizens would be needed to save lives and save livelihoods. Sadly, however, instead of using this legislation as a framework for a bipartisan relief package, Mitch McConnell buried it in his office and sat on his hands, letting vital programs expire without even participating in efforts to reach agreement. His decision to send the Senate home for the next three weeks is an insult to every sacrifice made, every job lost, every small business that has had to close its doors, every person who had to say their final goodbye to a loved one over Facetime, and every graduation or wedding or birth celebrated over Zoom instead of in person.The American people have done their duty, and today Mitch McConnell has thrown in the towel and given up on doing his. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.jones.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-doug-jones-urges-usps-to-fix-delays-and-avoid-cost-increases-ahead-of-election_,Senator Doug Jones Urges USPS to Fix Delays and Avoid Cost Increases Ahead of Election,2020-08-13,2020,2020-08,Democrat,House,AL,Doug Jones,J000300,www.jones.senate.gov,,,legacy,"BIRMINGHAMU.S. Senator Doug Jones of Alabama, alongside a group of his colleagues,isurgingU.S. Postmaster General Louis DeJoy to provide answers regarding reports of recent changes to long-standing practices at the United States Postal Service that would result in increased delivery times and costs for election mail, and urged him not take any further action that makes it harder and more expensiveto vote by mail. Despite reports from across the country of slow delivery, mail left sitting in facilities overnight,and challenges delivering absentee ballots on time to election officials, DeJoy has refused to provide Congress with satisfactory answers on his actions he has taken and continues to assert that election officials must pay the First Class rate for election mail to be prioritized. This letter follows previous requests from the lawmakers that demanded answers from DeJoy after he refused to answer whether reported changes restricting mail delivery came at his direction. DeJoy has sinceconfirmedchanges in delayed mail came at his direction. Like voting itself, the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) is vital to our democracy. Since you assumed the role of Postmaster General, there have been disturbing reports regarding changes at USPS that are causing significant delays in the delivery of mail. Under normal circumstances, delayed mail is a major problem during a pandemic in the middle of a presidential election, it is catastrophic,the senators wrote in the letter to Postermaster DeJoy . The senators continued,Despite our continued efforts, Congress has so far only provided states with $400 million in emergency funding for electionsbillions short of what experts say is needed to keep voters safe this year. As election officials across the country plead with Congress to authorize additional election funding, reports suggest the Postal Service could implement changes that suddenly increase costs for Americans to safely vote. That is wrong and unacceptable. As Postmaster General, you have a duty to our democracy to ensure the timely delivery of election mail. Millions of Americans' right to vote depends on your ability to get the job done. We urge you not to increase costs for election officials, and to direct all Postal Service employees to continue to prioritize delivery of election mail,they wrote. Full text of the letter can be foundhereand below: Dear Postmaster DeJoy: We write to express significant concern regarding reports that you are implementing policy changes that will increase the cost for timely delivery of election mail, and to urge you not to take any action that makes it harder and more expensive for Americans to vote. Like voting itself, the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) is vital to our democracy. Since you assumed the role of Postmaster General, there have been disturbing reports regarding changes at USPS that are causing significant delays in the delivery of mail. Under normal circumstances, delayed mail is a major problem during a pandemic in the middle of a presidential election, it is catastrophic. Instead of taking steps to increase your agency's ability to deliver for the American people, you are implementing policy changes that make matters worse, and the Postal Service is reportedly considering changes that would increase costs for states at a time when millions of Americans are relying on voting by mail to exercise their right to vote. The National Voter Registration Act of 1993(NVRA) allows state and local officials to send materials authorized or required under the Act, such as absentee ballot applications, at USPS Nonprofit Marketing Mail prices. These prices are lower than the regular USPS Marketing Mail prices and election officials across the country rely on the lower rates to send voters important election mail in a cost-effective manner. Absentee ballots themselves are not specifically covered under the NVRA; however, many jurisdictions receive the lower rate for ballots as well because they utilize the Undeliverable As Addressed (UAA) information from returned ballots for list maintenance activities prescribed under the NVRA. The practice of mailing out ballots as Marketing Mail has been formalized to the degree that the 2020 Official Election Mail Kit (Kit 600) sent to election officials in January 2020 includes advice on how to decide whether to send ballots by First Class or Marketing Mail. While First Class mail normally has a delivery standard of 2-5 days, and Nonprofit Marketing Mail has a delivery standard of 3-10 days, it has been the practice of USPS to treat all election mail as First Class mail regardless of the paid class of service.Reports from the USPS Office of the Inspector General (OIG) support the fact that USPS has traditionally prioritized election mail. An OIG report on the 2018 elections found that 95.6 percent of election and political mail was delivered within the 1-3 day service standard applied to First Class mail.That is extremely close to the USPS overall goal of delivering 96 percent of First Class mail within the 1-3 day service standard and clearly indicates that election mail was being processed across the country as if First Class service standards applied. In addition, the OIG also conducted interviews in which area and facility managers stated that they treat all election mail as First Class mail. We have received reports that in the last several weeks, the Postal Service sent letters to state election officials that indicate that the Postal Service will not automatically treat all election mail as First Class. If any changes are made to longstanding practices of moving election mail just months ahead of the 2020 general election, it will cause further delays to election mail that will disenfranchise voters and put significant financial pressure on election jurisdictions. Many state deadlines allow voters to request absentee ballot applications and absentee ballots within a few days of Election Day, so it is vital that standard delivery times remain low and pricing remain consistent with past practices to which election officials and voters are accustomed. As you know, state laws set deadlines for voter registration, absentee ballot requests, and ballot postmarking and/or delivery. Changes to previous practices regarding election mail would upset these timelines. Furthermore, changing any policy for election mail only months before Election Day does not give election officials sufficient time to respond by changing deadlines set in law, especially since many state legislatures have adjourned. Although some election jurisdictions may be able to send their election mail at the First Class rate, the overwhelming majority of jurisdictions simply do not have sufficient resources to do so. Election officials are coping with budgets that are severely strained by the increase in requests for absentee ballots and other costs associated with the pandemic. Despite our continued efforts, Congress has so far only provided states with $400 million in emergency funding for electionsbillions short of what experts say is needed to keep voters safe this year. As election officials across the country plead with Congress to authorize additional election funding, reports suggest the Postal Service could implement changes that suddenly increase costs for Americans to safely vote. That is wrong and unacceptable. As Postmaster General, you have a duty to our democracy to ensure the timely delivery of election mail. Millions of Americans' right to vote depends on your ability to get the job done. We urge you not to increase costs for election officials, and to direct all Postal Service employees to continue to prioritize delivery of election mail. We understand you have committed to being more forthcoming and transparent with Congress and the American people regarding your work as Postmaster, including the Postal Service's plan to successfully deliver election mail during the 2020 elections. Accordingly, we ask you to publicly release this plan and provide answers to the following questions no later than August 25. 1. Prior to 2020 it was the practice of the Postal Service to prioritize the delivery of all election mail, including voter registration materials, absentee ballot request, and ballots, to meet the equivalent of First Class delivery times no matter what class of mail was used to send it. Will the Postal Service commit to continuing this practice? 2. Will the Postal Service commit to continuing its longstanding practice of allowing election officials to mail ballots to voters at Nonprofit Marketing Mail Rates? 3. Has USPS headquarters staff provided any guidance, formally or informally, in writing or verbally, regarding the service standards to be applied to election mail not sent at the First Class rate? Please provide copies of any such guidance. 4. Please provide copies of any letters or guidance sent to state or local election officials regarding the service standards that will be applied to election mail. Sincerely, ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-host-project-ready-2020-navigating-job-market-during-covid-19,Rep. Sewell to Host Project R.E.A.D.Y. 2020: Navigating the Job Market During the COVID-19 Era,2020-08-10,2020,2020-08,Democrat,House,AL,Terri Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,,,legacy,"Birmingham, AL Thursday, August 13, 2020, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) will host Project R.E.A.D.Y. (Realizing Everyone's Ability to Develop Yourself), a series of three virtual workshops intended to prepare job seekers to apply for jobs during the age of COVID-19. The workshops will train attendees to write a cover letter and resume; navigate virtual job fairs; get results from online applications; prepare for virtual and recorded job interviews; and network virtually. Project R.E.A.D.Y. comes ahead of Rep. Sewell's Annual Job Fair which will also be held virtually this year. I am so pleased that despite the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, we will still be able to hold Project R.E.A.D.Y., this year with an emphasis on applying for jobs in the digital age,said Rep. Sewell.As more and more employers are shifting their business online, it is essential that the people of Alabama's 7th Congressional District be prepared to navigate a digital job market. When I first ran for Congress, I made a commitment to connect job seekers and employers across our district with an annual job fair and with its sister event, Project R.E.A.D.Y., and I am excited that this year we will still be able to hold both events virtually. Now more than ever, with rising unemployment due to the pandemic, we need to continue to provide employment access to my constituents. Workshops: 10:10 am CST:Ready to Work Training and Adult Education Programs in the Virtual Erawith Gindi Prutzman, Executive Director, Central Alabama Works Region 5 This workshop will focus on skills training and certification programs that will provide participants with the vocational and business skills needed to obtain gainful employment. 10:45 am CST:Tips and Techniques on Job Searching, Resume Writing and Job Interviewing in the Virtual Erawith Vivian Black, Career Facilitator, Alabama Career Center This workshop will provide participants with helpful tips for job searching, cover letter and resume writing, as well as preparation for conducting successful job interviews on virtual platforms. 11:30 am CST:Successful Business Networking in the Virtual Erawith Brittany Pieper, Site Marketing Coordinator, Capstone On-Campus Management This workshop will highlight the best ways to use online tools and social media platforms to build and strengthen professional networks. Please sign up for Project R.E.A.D.Y. athttp://www.sewell.house.govor byclickingthis link. Details for Thursday August 13, 2020: WHAT:Project R.E.A.D.Y. 2020: Navigating the Job Market During the COVID-19 Era WHEN:10:00 am 12:00 pm CST Where:Sign up athttp://www.sewell.house.govor byclickingthis link.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.jones.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-doug-jones-statement-on-president-trumps-recently-announced-executive-orders,Senator Doug Jones Statement on President Trump’s Recently Announced Executive Orders,2020-08-08,2020,2020-08,Democrat,House,AL,Doug Jones,J000300,www.jones.senate.gov,,,legacy,"BIRMINGHAMU.S. Senator Doug Jones of Alabama has released the following statement on the news that President Donald Trump has signed a series of executive orders in lieu of continuing to pursue a bipartisan legislative COVID relief package: ""While the President is attempting to give the appearance that he is leading the cavalry coming to the rescue of the American people, these executive orders are anything but that. The executive order to extend the now-lapsed emergency unemployment assistance will cut benefits by $200 a week or more for Alabamians and asks states, whose budgets have already been burdened by the pandemic, to footpart ofthe bill. The payroll tax collection moratorium is a way for President Trump to follow through with his promise to defund Medicare and privatize social security by putting the solvency of these programs at risk while still leaving open the possibility that those taxes may need to be paid in a lump sum next year. By signing these executive orders that are more for show than actual help for the American people, President Trump has confirmed that his Administration has not acted in good faith and had no intention of reaching bipartisan agreement on legislation that would benefit all Americans. The Senate, which absolutely should not have recessed without passing a relief package, needs to immediately return to Washington to pass legislation that provides adequate support for the Americans who are suffering as a result of this virus as well as our economy. We need to come to a bipartisan compromise that deals with the full slate of urgent issues facing our country: we need a national strategy for COVID testing and contact tracing, to extend federal eviction moratoriums, to provide much-needed funding for state and local governments, and to ensure schools have the resources they need to reopen safely among so many other needs. It's completely inexcusable that Mitch McConnell waited over two months after the House of Representatives passed the HEROES Act to begin negotiations on this relief package, knowing full well that many of the programs that Americans have relied on during this crisis would expire at the end of July. The failure to negotiate an adequate bipartisan deal speaks to a broader breakdown in leadership in Washington, and I strongly urge my colleagues to put partisanship aside to come together to pass a relief bill as soon as possible. Lives and livelihoods are at stake, and each day we spend arguing over politics is another day that our institution fails the American people. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-announces-over-35-million-trio-grant-funding-colleges-alabama,Rep. Sewell Announces Over $3.5 Million in TRIO Grant Funding for Colleges in Alabamas 7th Congressional District,2020-08-07,2020,2020-08,Democrat,House,AL,Terri Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,,,legacy,"Birmingham, ALRep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced $3,504,985.00 in federal TRIO Grant funding for seven colleges and universities across Alabama's 7thCongressional District. These grants are part of the Federal TRIO Programs,designed to provide students from disadvantaged backgrounds with opportunities for academic development and assistance with basic academic requirements. Grants were awarded to the University of Alabama at Birmingham, George Corley Wallace State Community College Selma, T.A. Lawson State Community College Birmingham Campus, the University of Alabama, the University of West Alabama, T.A. Lawson State Community College Bessemer Campus, Miles College and Alabama State University. I am thrilled to announce this substantial round of TRIO Grant funding for colleges and universities across Alabama's 7thCongressional district,said Rep. Sewell.I know first-hand the transformative power of a good education and remain committed to ensuring that every child across our district is given the academic tools they need to thrive. I am especially excited to see that much of this funding will go toward our HBCUs who are in desperate need of support. Our district's HBCUs are vital to our culture, our economy and our children's future, and I remain committed to ensuring their continued vitality. We are delighted to receive these highly competitive grants which are particularly important to the 7thDistrict,said Tracy Lyons, Executive Director of Undergraduate Student Success and Retention, UAB.Our district is both urban and rural and our baccalaureate attainment rates are comparatively low.For these reasons, Congresswoman Sewell is passionate about TRIO funding and annually hosts proposal writing workshops to help grantees in the district.We are grateful to her office for their continuous outreach and assistance in securing this funding. ""The Student Support Services Fedral TRIO Program at Wallace Community College Selma is extremely excited about being awarded a grant totaling $2,530,750 over a five-year period from the U.S. Department of Education,said Herbert Thomas, Director of Student Support Services, Wallace Community College, Selma.We are very appreciative of the efforts and support provided by congresswoman Terri A. Sewell and her staff in helping us in the grant process. These much needed funds will allow us to continue serving first generation and low income college students. Our goal is to make a positive impact on their academic trajectory at Wallace Community College Selma and beyond."" We are grateful for the unwavering support Congresswoman Terri Sewell provides to Miles College,""said Bobbie Knight, Miles College President.""This multi-year grant provides vital resources that will strengthen our student success infrastructure, supporting our efforts to increase academic standing, student retention and graduation rates. We meet each student where he or she is, diagnosing their needs and connecting with them in a way that changes their lives. Funding of this size builds upon our success. On August 5th, Alabama State University received notice of its $294,725 award for the Student Support Services 2021-25 grant competition administered through the Department of Education,said Acquanetta Pinkard, TRIO Grants Director at Alabama State University.This amount is awarded each year for a five year cycle. We are thankful to the TRIO champions on Capitol Hill such as Representative Terri Sewell, for her efforts in supporting TRIO programs at Alabama State University and assisting in securing this funding.Amid thispandemic, this is a great accomplishment for our institution and needed service for underrepresented students at Alabama State University. Alabama's 7thCongressional District TRIO Grant Recipients University of Alabama at Birmingham Birmingham, AL $1,016,230.00 George Corley Wallace State Community College, Selma Selma, Alabama $506,152.00 T.A. Lawson State Community College Birmingham Campus Birmingham, AL $398,062.00 The University of Alabama Tuscaloosa, AL $354,106.00 University of West Alabama Livingston, AL $338,972.00 T.A. Lawson State Community College Bessemer Campus Bessemer, AL $334,850.00 Miles College Fairfield, AL $261,888.00 Alabama State University Montgomery, AL $294,725.00",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.jones.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-doug-jones-and-cory-gardner-introduce-the-american-dream-down-payment-act-of-2020,Senators Doug Jones and Cory Gardner Introduce the American Dream Down Payment Act of 2020,2020-08-04,2020,2020-08,Democrat,House,AL,Doug Jones,J000300,www.jones.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON U.S. Senators Doug Jones of Alabama and Cory Gardner of Colorado today introduced theAmerican Dream Down Payment Act of 2020. The bipartisan legislation would help prospective homeowners save for a traditional 20-percent down payment by creating special tax-advantaged savings accounts for eligible housing costs. These accounts would be similar to the popular 529 Plan accounts that encourage people to save post-tax money to pay for future education expenses. Senator Sherrod Brown of Ohio, Ranking Member of the Senate Banking & Housing Committee, is also an original cosponsor of the legislation. A recent survey cited by the Urban Institute found that more than two-thirds of renters view the down payment as a barrier to owning a home. As rents and student loan debt rise, it can be harder for prospective homeowners to save for a down payment, especially if they are a first-time homebuyer or aren't able to receive help from family members. And while the nation-wide homeownership rate is relatively stable, there are significant disparities in homeownership by age, race, and ethnicity. The Black homeownership rate fell to a 50-year low in 2016, at just 41.7%, and remains nearly 30 points below the white homeownership rate. Millennials are less likely to own a home by 34 than their parents or grandparents were. If these trends continue, a growing number of Americans will be locked out of homeownership. As the coronavirus pandemic continues to devastate our nation's economy, it is getting even harder for many folks in Alabama and across the country to put money away in savings and to work toward the American dream of owning a home,said Senator Jones, a member of the Senate Banking & Housing Committee.Down payments are the biggest barrier to homeownership for first-time homebuyers, especially among low-income and minority Americans, and make it harder to build generational wealth that is often tied to home-ownership. Our legislation would provide a new path to help make the dream of buying a home a reality by making it easier to save money for down payments and other housing-related costs. A down payment on a home can be a significant barrier to becoming a homeowner,said Senator Gardner. Inspired by the popular 529 education savings accounts, this bipartisan bill will make it easier for people to save for a down payment, which will aid both our unique housing challenges in Colorado and our economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. I'm proud to work with Senators Jones and Brown to help more families achieve the American Dream and own a home. Borrowers of color have been locked out of affordable homeownership for decades. The gap in Black and white homeownership rates remain as large now as it was before the Fair Housing Act was signed into law,said Senator Brown.These troubling and persistent inequities in homeownership rates have prevented generations of Black and brown families from obtaining the American dream of owning a home. The American Dream Down Payment Act is a new tool to help make homeownership a reality. The introduction of theAmerican Dream Down Payment Actoffers Black American families and individuals the opportunity to build legacy wealth through homeownership.The ability to accumulate tax-free savings fundsbreaks down/eliminates one of the most prominent barriers to achieving homeownership, the down payment. This Act serves as a tangible springboard to increase Black homeownership and real wealth-building prospects which the National Association of Real Estate Brokers (NAREB) includes in the meaning of its time-honored slogan, Democracy in Housing,said Donnell Williams, National President, National Association of Real Estate Brokers. TheAmerican Dream Down Payment Actwould: Let states establish American Dream Down Payment Accounts, which they would manage in the same way they manage 529 Plan accounts today; Allow prospective homeowners to save up as much as 20% of today's housing cost, indexed for inflation, to use for eligible down payment and other housing costs; Facilitate long-term savings for a down payment and allow contributions from family and friends; and Allow homebuyers using their American Dream Down Payment Account savings and earnings to use those funds tax-free at withdrawal for eligible expenses. To protect American Dream Down Payment Account holders, the Securities and Exchange Commission would be required to set standards for the investments of eligible accounts and allowable fees. This legislation is supported by the National Association of Realtors, Habitat for Humanity, and the National Association of Real Estate Brokers. Text of the legislation can befoundhere. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.jones.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-doug-jones-calls-for-expansion-of-school-meal-programs-amid-covid-19-pandemic,Senator Doug Jones Calls for Expansion of School Meal Programs Amid COVID-19 Pandemic,2020-07-31,2020,2020-07,Democrat,House,AL,Doug Jones,J000300,www.jones.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON U.S. Senator Doug Jones of Alabama, alongside a group of his colleagues, is urging the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to provide additional financial relief to schools to help them expand their school meals programs for the 2020-2021 school year. The COVID-19 pandemic has forced schools around the country to close their buildings and shift instruction to online and distance-learning models,the senators wrote in a letter to USDA.For many children, school breakfast and lunch may be the only healthy and regular meals they receive. The senators continued,The economic crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic has also resulted in millions of parents losing their jobs, and millions more students will be dependent on school-provided meals. School meal program directors must begin procuring food, equipment, and supplies and placing orders now in preparation for the upcoming school year. To help ensure school meal program directors and staff have the certainty that they need to begin preparing for the upcoming school year, the senators are urging the USDA to extend a variety of waivers that will help ensure low-income students can access school-provided meals throughout the upcoming school year. Additionally, the senators are calling on the USDA to reimburse schools for the transportation costs for delivering meals to low-income students: While many school meal programs are managing these costs for the time-being, they cannot continue absorbing them for the foreseeable future. We ask that the USDA make additional funds available to schools to assist with the cost of delivering meals to low-income students until regular school operations are restored. The full letter is availablehere. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-calls-senate-majority-leader-mitch-mcconnell-take-and-pass,Rep. Sewell Calls on Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell to Take Up and Pass the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Act of 2020,2020-07-27,2020,2020-07,Democrat,House,AL,Terri Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed by unanimous consent House Concurrent Resolution 107 to rename H.R. 4the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Act of 2020. U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07), who introduced and shepherded H.R. 4 through the House of Representatives last year, praised the decision to rename the legislation for her late colleague, mentor and friend. There is no better way to honor Congressman Lewis' legacy than to restore the full protections of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 so that every American regardless of color is able to make their voice heard at the ballot box. It is fitting that the House moved today to rename H.R. 4 in John's name,Sewell said.The bill has been languishing inSenate Majority Leader McConnell'slegislative graveyard for 234 days. McConnell has taken to the floor to honor John, but the most significant thing he can do is to bring up the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Act of 2020 for a vote. Now is the time for action to honor John's legacy! The Supreme Courts' 2013Shelby County v. Holderruling struck down Section4(b) of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, which outlined the qualifications needed to determine which states are required by the Justice Department to pre-clear elections changes in states with a history of voter discrimination. Since theShelbydecision, nearly two-dozen states have implemented restrictive voter ID laws and previously-covered states have closed or consolidated polling places, shortened early voting and imposed other measures that restrict voting. The John R. Lewis Voting Rights Act of 2020 seeks to restore the VRA by developing a process to determine which states must pre-clear election changes with the Department of Justice. It will also require a nationwide, practice-based pre-clearance of known discriminatory practices, including the creation of at-large districts, inadequate multilingual voting materials, cuts to polling places, changes that reduce the days or hours of in person voting on Sundays during the early voting period and changes to the maintenance of voter registration lists that adds a basis or institutes a new process for removal from the lists, where the jurisdiction includes racial or language minority populations above a certain percent threshold. Underthe legislation, there are three ways to become a covered jurisdiction that is required to pre-clear election changes: 1.States with a history of 15 or more violations at any level in the previous 25 years; or 2.States with a history of 10 or more violations, if one violation occurs at the state level in the previous 25 years; or 3.Political subdivisions or localities with 3 or more violations in that subdivision in the previous 25 years. The bill is supported by more than 60 national organizations, including the NAACP, NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, Lawyers' Committee for Civil Rights Under Law, Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund, NALEO Educational Fund, Asian Americans Advancing Justice, Native American Rights Fund, League of Women Voters of the United States, AAUW, ACLU, AFL-CIO, AFSCME, American Federation of Teachers, National Education Association, Communications Workers of America, SEIU, UAW, Democracy 21, Democracy Initiative, End Citizens United Action Fund, Sierra Club, and League of Conservation Voters Education Fund.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.jones.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-approves-annual-defense-bill-with-hundreds-of-millions-for-alabama-priorities-championed-by-senator-doug-jones,Senate Approves Annual Defense Bill with Hundreds of Millions for Alabama Priorities Championed by Senator Doug Jones,2020-07-24,2020,2020-07,Democrat,House,AL,Doug Jones,J000300,www.jones.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON On an overwhelming bipartisan vote, the U.S. Senate yesterday passed the Fiscal Year 2021 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), a bill that includes hundreds of millions of dollars in funding secured by Senator Doug Jones for key Alabama defense priorities. The annual legislation authorizes national defense priorities for the next fiscal year. The bill will now go to a conference committee to resolve differences with the House-approved version. Alabama is on the frontlines of our national security efforts, and this bipartisan legislation will ensure that the work being done across our state to defend our country can continue,said Senator Jones, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee. This bill will also provide our troops, once again, with a well-deserved pay raise and includes policy changes that will help us better serve military families. This annual bill is an example of how much we can accomplish on key priorities for our country when we work together and set aside politics. For the second consecutive year, the NDAA will provide a three-percent pay raise for service members. It also takes steps to improve the quality of life for military children and spouses, which has a direct impact on military readiness. In Alabama, defense industry employees will benefit significantly as a result of this legislation's funding and workforce policies, which in turn will benefit their broader communities. The Senate-approved bill also includes bipartisan legislation led by Senator Jones toblock deadly fentanyl importsfrom countries like China and to incentivize investments in American semiconductor manufacturing in order tobring back jobs from China. Key provisions in the FY 2021 NDAA for Alabama's service members and their families, military installations, and contractors and research institutions are listed below. Strengthening Alabama's Defense Infrastructure and Industry $24 million for advanced electrical generation and storage facilities at Fort Rucker in Dale County; $23 million for next generation fighter aircraft (F-35) facilities at Maxwell Air Force Base; $18 million to construct a small arms parts demilitarization facility at the Anniston Army Depot; $10 million to help steel manufacturers meet future defense needs, protecting current and future employment of thousands in Birmingham; $5 million to improve efficiency and readiness at the Army's Aviation and Missile Center in Huntsville; and, $2 million for the Aerospace Education Research and Innovation Center (AERIC) at Tuskegee University, and a $5 million increase overall for Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Funding for Alabama's Contribution to the National Defense Strategy $349.7 million for an additional THAAD ballistic missile defense battery, key parts made in Troy; $35 million for Long Range Anti-Ship Missiles (LRASM), made in Troy; $10 million for research into lightweight power sources for Navy ships. The University of Alabama conducts leading edge research and development of silicon carbide power sources; $7.3 million for continued research and development of advanced plastics technology. The Mobile area is home to a company that is pioneering thermoplastic tailorable composite manufacturing; $5 million for research into advanced repair and modification processes. The University of Alabama is currently working with the DoD to develop these technologies; $5 million to complete development of new satellite technology. Huntsville is home to companies that are leaders in this field and are well-positioned to compete for these funds; $5 million to accelerate the Army helicopter modernization program. Bell Helicopter, in Ozark, is participating in this program; $3 million to develop a hypersonic missile testing facility. Huntsville is home to a number of companies that contribute to the Defense Department's hypersonics research and development; $10.5 million to build a high energy laser system lab to help with the Army's weapons modernization programs. The Army's high energy laser program is headquartered at Redstone and works with a number of Huntsville companies; and, $3 million for hybrid additive manufacturing research and development to help with the Army's weapons modernization programs. The additive manufacturing industry is robust and growing in Alabama, with research and development ongoing in Birmingham. Support to Improve the Safety and Health of Military Housing and Bases Requires the Secretary of Defense to implement within 90 days all applicable security and emergency response recommendations to protect U.S. military installations, which follows acall by Senator Jones to increase base securityafter Enterprise, Alabama native Joshua Kaleb Watson was killed during a terrorist attack at Naval Air Station Pensacola last year; and, Requires the Secretary of Defense to ensure that each installation conducts or develops a plan to conduct regular live emergency response training with first responders. Funding for Coronavirus Response Increases funding to support the Defense Department's coronavirus vaccine research and to integrate with other vaccine research programs; and, Authorizes hazard pay for troops deployed in response to the coronavirus. Expanding Support and Opportunity for Minority Service Members Authorizes pilot programs to reduce barriers to participation in satellite ROTC programs and to provide flight training scholarships at HBCUs; $14 million for Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation (RDT&E) at HBCUs Takes steps toward identifying and eliminating barriers to minority participation in elite units in the armed forces; and, Supports continuing and expanding the Air Force JROTC pilot training scholarship program to increase diversity in the pilot ranks and address the pilot shortage. Support for Military Spouses and Children $50 million for Impact Aid to schools that serve military children; $20 million for aid to military children with disabilities; $15 million for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) youth educational programs (STARBASE); Authorizes a pilot program to expand eligibility for attendance at DoD schools for military dependent children living off-base; $4 million to continue development of interstate agreements on licensed occupations for military spouses; and, Increases reimbursement to military spouses for state licensure and certification costs resulting from relocations. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.jones.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-doug-jones-calls-for-extension-of-unemployment-benefits-set-to-expire-for-thousands-of-alabamians,Senator Doug Jones Calls for Extension of Unemployment Benefits Set to Expire for Thousands of Alabamians,2020-07-24,2020,2020-07,Democrat,House,AL,Doug Jones,J000300,www.jones.senate.gov,,,legacy,"BIRMINGHAM U.S. Senator Doug Jones of Alabama today issued the following statement calling on Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell to include anextension ofemergencyunemployment benefitswhichareset to expire in the next weekin the next COVID-19 relief legislation: I have heard from people all over Alabama who have lost work and are relying on unemployment assistance during the pandemic. This economic crisis is impacting everyone in every ZIP code. For weeks, I have spent my time in Washington pushing for another relief bill that would include an extension ofemergency unemployment benefits, as well as other things like funding for schools to reopen safely, incentives for states to expand Medicaid and funding for state and local governments hit hard by this downturn. I also have been consistentin sayingthat I believe people who have the ability to return to work safely should do so. The expiration of these benefits will lead to further suffering and food scarcity. People will be unable to pay their rent or make mortgage payments. In the middle of a public health crisis, many people may be unable to access health care because of their inability to pay. I am deeply disappointed at Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell's consistent refusal to even consider relief as this critical deadline approached. I am ready to vote to extendemergencybenefits as soon as a bill to do so is brought to the floor. I hope Senator McConnell will come to his senses and work quickly to address this on behalf of the American people. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-honors-life-and-legacy-congressman-john-lewis,Rep. Sewell Honors Life and Legacy of Congressman John Lewis,2020-07-23,2020,2020-07,Democrat,House,AL,Terri Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. In a speech on the floor of the House of Representatives Wednesday evening, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) honored the life and legacy of Rep. John Lewis (GA-05). A transcript of her remarks is below, and video is available here. Rep. Sewell: Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and outstanding legacy of our colleague, friend, mentor, and my hero, Congressman John Robert Lewis. Growing up as a little girl in Selma, Alabama, John's incredible legacy was a hero's tale as familiar to me as any Bible story or family lore. As a little girl singing in the choir, Children's Choir at Brown Chapel AME Church, my home church. The church where John and so many foot soldiers would come time and time again to honor the legacy of the Bloody Sunday march. But to know John was to know a man without ego, who, despite his many well-deserved accolades and successes, loved every person that he met. He looked them in the eye. Can't you hear him? My brother. My sister, he would say. John loved this country more than any other person I have met, and it was his deep-seated patriotism that will live on. His legacy, indeed, was the Voting Rights Act. And we in this body can do something about that. Yes, we can name things for John, but the biggest name the biggest thing we can do is re-name H.R. 4. We should call it the John Robert Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act of 2020, and fully restore the Voting Rights Act of 1965. That is the legacy of John Lewis. He gave us a roadmap. Can't you hear him? Never give up. Never give in. Keep your eyes on the prize. Keep the faith. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/house-votes-remove-statues-honoring-defenders-racism-slavery-and,"House votes to Remove Statues Honoring Defenders of Racism, Slavery and Segregation from U.S. Capitol",2020-07-22,2020,2020-07,Democrat,House,AL,Terri Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) praised the House passage of H.R. 7573, legislation to replace the bust in the Old Supreme Court Chamber of Chief Justice Roger B. Taney, the author of the Dred Scott ruling in 1857 that upheld slavery, with one of Justice Thurgood Marshall, who fought for civil rights and equality as the Court's first African-American justice.The bill would also require states to reclaim and replace any statues in the National Statuary Hall Collection of individuals who volunteered for the armed services of the Confederacy during the Civil War and specifically remove three statues of John C. Calhoun, Charles B. Aycock and John C. Clarke from the collection because of those individuals' role in defending slavery, segregation and white supremacy. Statues honoring white supremacists and segregationists stand contrary to the values upon which our nation were founded that all men are created equal, Sewell said. Removing these statues is an important acknowledgement of the pain and repression caused by those who have defended slavery, segregation and white supremacy, but it is critical that we keep our eye on the prize and continue fighting for substantive policy change and cultural shifts that address our nation's longstanding inequities and institutional racism. H.R. 7573 now heads to the Senate for consideration.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.jones.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-doug-jones-introduces-bipartisan-bill-to-allow-rural-hospitals-to-access-paycheck-protection-program-relief-funds,Senator Doug Jones Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Allow Rural Hospitals to Access Paycheck Protection Program Relief Funds,2020-07-22,2020,2020-07,Democrat,House,AL,Doug Jones,J000300,www.jones.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON U.S. Senator Doug Jones of Alabama today introduced a bipartisan bill to allow rural hospitals to access relief funds through the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) established the PPP to provide relief to small business owners with fewer than 500 employees.Many small hospitals operate as part of a larger health system that exceeds the 500-employee limit under the Small Business Association's rules, making these smaller hospitals ineligible for PPP. This legislation would waive the SBA rule for non-profit critical access hospitals and hospitals that serve rural areas so that they are eligible for PPP loans. We need to do everything we can to make sure that Alabamians can access the health care they need no matter where they live,said Senator Jones, a member of the Senate Health Committee.Many of our rural hospitals were struggling even before this pandemic, and are now being stretched to a breaking point by the spread of COVID-19. It's crucial that they can access the support they need to continue to provide care to their communities, and PPP funds will be another tool in the toolbox to help them stay afloat. In addition to dealing with increased costs for staff, personal protective equipment, and other safety measures as a result of the COVID-19 outbreak, many hospitals and medical facilities have lost significant revenue because of reductions in elective procedures.Before the COVID-19 pandemic, the Alabama Hospital Association had estimated that 88-percent of Alabamahospitals were operating in the red.Many rural hospitals in Alabama were already operating on thin margins and the pandemic has placed them under even greater financial stress. Expanding access to quality, affordable health care has been one of Senator Jones' top priorities during his time in the Senate. He has introducedlegislationto make it easier for states like Alabama to expand Medicaid, which would provide access to health care for over 300,000 Alabamians and would provide much-needed financial support for struggling hospitals across the state. He successfully advocated for andsecureda change in the Medicare wage index system to help Alabama hospitals get reimbursed more fairly for the services they provide. Among other things, Senator Jones has also introducedlegislationto reduce maternal mortality and racial disparities in health care. The legislation is also sponsored by U.S. Senators Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.) and Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.). ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/sewell-leads-bipartisan-introduction-legislation-expand-telehealth,Sewell Leads Bipartisan Introduction of Legislation to Expand Telehealth Services for Seniors,2020-07-21,2020,2020-07,Democrat,House,AL,Terri Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07), Jackie Walorski (IN-02), Ron Kind (WI-03), Tony Crdenas (CA-29) and Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01) introduced the Ensuring Parity in MA for Audio-Only Telehealth Act, bipartisan legislation to help ensure Medicare Advantage (MA) enrollees who cannot access the video component during telehealth visits are able to access care through audio visits during the COVID-19 pandemic. Since the COVID-19 outbreak, an increasing number of Americans have been relying on telehealth services to access the care they need and deserve. Utilizing telehealth services helps reduce the risk of exposure for both patients and health care workers, mitigating the spread of COVID-19, Rep. Sewell said. The Ensuring Parity in MA for Audio-Only Telehealth will allow those enrolled in Medicare Advantage to access audio as well as video telehealth services to ensure they are not forced to forego critical care during the pandemic, as many of our seniors live in rural areas without access to broadband speeds that support video connections. During the COVID-19 pandemic, older Americans and enrollees in Medicare Advantage have been utilizing telehealth services to access care they need. In many instances, telehealth services can help to reduce the risk of exposure for both vulnerable patient populations, like seniors, and health care workers, said Rep. Fitzpatrick. I am proud to support this bipartisan legislation to make sure that seniors enrolled in Medicare Advantage, who may be limited to an audio-only telehealth visit, have more options and can continue to safely receive the care they deserve throughout this public health emergency. As Americans adapt to this new reality of social distancing, remote working, and telecommunicating, it is imperative that our laws reflect the changes of this time. Millions of seniors rely on Medicare Advantage for critical life-saving services, and as the risk for elderly Americans remain high during this pandemic, we must ensure that they have access to telehealth services, said Rep. Cardenas. This commonsense legislation makes it easier for our seniors to access these services while reducing risk of coronavirus exposure and will, ultimately, save lives. ""Especially during the COVID-19 crisis, it's important that health care is affordable and accessible,"" said Rep. Ron Kind. ""Many Wisconsinites have relied on telehealth services throughout the pandemic to stay healthy and access the care they need. However, those who cannot use a video component during telehealth visits are currently being left behind.It's important that we ensure all Wisconsinites are able to access these services, which is why I am proud to be an original cosponsor of this legislation."" Doctors and patients have been relying on innovative telehealth services to ensure access to high-quality care despite office closures and extra precautions for high-risk patients due to the COVID-19 pandemic, said Rep. Walorski. However, even though CMS has provided additional flexibility, many Americans in rural and low-income communities still face challenges using the necessary video technology. That's why I'm cosponsoring this commonsense, bipartisan measure to ensure Medicare Advantage patients can get the care they need by removing barriers to providing diagnoses through audio-only telehealth services. In order to help facilitate the use of telehealth among MA patients, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has provided flexibility to allow health care providers to offer telehealth services under MA plans. However, this guidance requires that the encounters include a video component, which is not an option for many patients. Low-income and rural patients for example, may have trouble accessing technology or broadband services supporting video communications. Additionally, seniors or at-risk populations may have physical limitations that prevent them from using video communications. For these patients, an audio-only telehealth visit may be the only option besides foregoing needed care. The Ensuring Parity in MA for Audio-Only Telehealth Act will allow providers to offer audio-only telehealth services to MA enrollees, providing them with the resources necessary to adequately care for their patients. Additionally, this legislation ensures that providers will be adequately compensated by requiring MA plans to reimburse them for audio-only telehealth visits as if they were in person visits unless both parties have agreed to a separate payment policy. The Ensuring Parity in MA for Audio-Only Telehealth Act is available here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.jones.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-doug-jones-bill-to-bring-manufacturing-jobs-back-from-china-included-in-annual-national-defense-bill,Senator Doug Jones’ Bill to Bring Manufacturing Jobs Back from China Included in Annual National Defense Bill,2020-07-21,2020,2020-07,Democrat,House,AL,Doug Jones,J000300,www.jones.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTONU.S. Senator Doug Jones of Alabama today announced that this year's National Defense AuthorizationAct(NDAA)will includeabipartisanproposal hesponsoredlast month to incentivize investments in American semiconductor manufacturing businesses instead of Chinese-owned companies.The provision was approved today in the Senate (96-4) as an amendment to the NDAA. The Alabama Micro/Nano Science and Technology Center at Auburn University is a world leader in microelectrics engineering, and with 15 semiconductor companies in Alabama, the state stands to benefit substantially from increased investment in American semiconductor manufacturing. We all know that China is a bad actor on the world stage, which is why it is so crucial that the United States continues to lead the world in semiconductor technology,Senator Jones said.Not only will this provision help bring jobs back from China, it will incentivize investment in Alabama companies and will strengthen our national security by reducing reliance on foreign manufacturing. Semiconductors are used in a large variety of electronic devices, such as smart phones, digital cameras, televisions, and some computers. While the U.S. revolutionized the microelectronic industry and invented nearly all of the key technology used to this day, competitors in China have made huge investments into their microelectronics industries in recent years to challenge and undercut U.S. leadership. By 2030, Asia is projected to control 83-percentof the global semiconductor manufacturing supply while domestic production could be less than 10-percent, threatening U.S. reliance on foreign-made microelectronics and posing huge risks to U.S. national and economic security. Specifically, the amendment: Directs the Secretary of Commerce to create a grant program for constructing, expanding, or modernizing commercial semiconductor fabrication, assembly, testing, packaging, and advanced R&D facilities in the U.S. Directs the Secretary of Defense to create a partnership program with the private sector to encourage the development of advanced, measurably secure microelectronics for use by the Department of Defense, Intelligence Community, critical infrastructure, and other national-security applications. Requires the Secretary of Commerce to commence a review within 120 days assessing the state of the U.S. semiconductor industrial base. Establishes a Multilateral Microelectronics Security Fund, with which the U.S., its allies and partners will work to reach agreements promoting consistency in their policies related to microelectronics, greater transparency including supply chains, and greater alignment in export control and foreign direct investment policies. Directs the president to establish a subcommittee on semiconductor technology and innovation within the National Science and Technology Council, directs the Secretary of Commerce to establish a national semiconductor technology center to conduct research, fund semiconductor startups and a Manufacturing USA Institute, create a National Advance Packaging Manufacturing Program, and encourage the Secretary of Labor to work with the private sector on workforce training and apprenticeships in semiconductor manufacturing. The final NDAA is expected tobe voted on in theSenate inthecoming days. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.jones.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-doug-jones-and-colleagues-urge-administration-to-enforce-housing-eviction-bans-during-pandemic,Senator Doug Jones and Colleagues Urge Administration to Enforce Housing Eviction Bans During Pandemic,2020-07-20,2020,2020-07,Democrat,House,AL,Doug Jones,J000300,www.jones.senate.gov,,,legacy,"BIRMINGHAM As the coronavirus pandemic continues to put many Americans in danger of falling behind on monthly rent payments, U.S. Senators Doug Jones of Alabama and Jon Tester of Montana today led a group of their colleagues in urging the Trump Administration to enforce bans on housing evictions for the duration of the crisis. In a letter to U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Secretary Ben Carson,U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue, and Federal Housing Finance Agency Director Mark Calabria, Senator Jones and his colleagues wrote that an estimated 32 percent of renters were unable to make payments this month, and that despite a ban on evictions for renters in federally-subsidized housing, some tenants have still been unlawfully evicted during the pandemic. Alabama renters facesignificant housing cost burdensas a share of their incomes. The state ranks third in the nation for its share of renter households earning less than $15,000 per year, making it uniquely vulnerable to instability in the job market and the economy. Compounding these challenges, Alabama also faces a shortage in affordable housing and minimal tenant protections. As you know, theCARES Actcreated temporary protections from eviction for millions of tenants who live in properties with federally-backed mortgages or that receive certain types of federal housing assistance,wrote Senator Jones and his colleagues.During a time when having a roof over your head is essential for Americans' abilities to stay safe and healthy, Congress insisted that these safeguards be put in place to help those at risk of losing their housing in the midst of the public health and economic crises. These protections, as well as all tenant protections available under federal, state, and local law, must be honored and enforced. Several states including Alabama have allowed landlords to move forward with eviction proceedings, despite the mandated temporary protections for renters established under theCARES Act.Senator Jones and his colleagues urged the Administration to help renters understand what protections they have under theCARES Act,and to take proactive steps to ensure compliance with rules that prohibit evictions during the crisis. During this pandemic, when it is dangerous for individuals to even be required to appear in a court room, it is troubling that some renters have been unlawfully removed from their homes in violation of the clear protections of the CARES Act,the senators continued.As evictions continue to rise, more must be done to ensure these protections are adhered to and any violations are immediately addressed, otherwise the repercussions will be severely felt by millions of the most vulnerable Americans, including elderly and low-income renters and many essential workers. The full letter is availablehere. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-mourns-passing-congressman-john-lewis,Rep. Sewell Mourns the Passing of Congressman John Lewis,2020-07-18,2020,2020-07,Democrat,House,AL,Terri Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,,,legacy,"My heart breaks for the passing of my dear friend and mentor Congressman John Lewis, but my spirit soars for an angel walked among us and we were all touched by his greatness. He forever changed Selma and this nation. May we finish his life's work and restore the Voting Rights Act. Congressman John Lewis was a beacon of light, hope and inspiration throughout his life. To be in his presence was to experience love, whole-hearted and without exception. Though he was so often met with hatred, violence and racial terrorism, it never permeated his being. He remained until his passing a faithful servant-leader, whose righteousness, kindness and vision for a more equitable future inspired all who were blessed to know him. I am honored to have been able to call him a mentor and colleague and, above all, a friend. On Bloody Sunday in 1965, John was confronted by Alabama state troopers and their dogs, but he was determined to fight for equality and justice, putting his own life on the line in the service of others and a vision for a brighter future. So many times did John cross bridges, insisting that our nation live up to the promises enshrined in our constitution. As he always said, he gave a little blood on Selma bridge, but he also bridged the gaps that so often divide our political parties, working every day for a more just America. John believed firmly that the best days of our nation lie ahead of us. It is his unwavering optimism that I will continue to call upon in moments of challenge and hardship. While John has left this earth, his legacy fighting for equality and justice lives on. I hope that our nation and our leaders will unite behind the cause most dear to John: voting rights. We must restore the Voting Rights Act of 1965 to its full strength so that every American regardless of color is able to make their voice heard at the ballot box. John, the boy from Troy,' was the conscience of the Congress. He will be dearly missed.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.jones.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-doug-jones-statement-on-the-passing-of-civil-rights-icon-congressman-john-lewis_,Senator Doug Jones Statement on the Passing of Civil Rights Icon Congressman John Lewis,2020-07-18,2020,2020-07,Democrat,House,AL,Doug Jones,J000300,www.jones.senate.gov,,,legacy,"BIRMINGHAM U.S. Senator Doug Jones issued the following statement this morning on the passing of Congressman John Lewis: While this news is nothing short of heart-breaking, the pain we all feel at this loss is evident of the deep love, appreciation, and respect we have for John Lewis. As a son of Troy, Alabama, he loved our country with all of his heart and set out to make it a stronger, more democratic, more equal, more just nation for every person. To persevere toward that end in the face of the hate and violence he so often faced is a testament to his strength of both character and heart. John was a dear friend to my wife Louise and me, and we are both profoundly grateful to have had him in our lives. John's life has long represented an unbroken thread from a painful past to a more hopeful future. He gave us all a reason to hope. More importantly, he gave us the courage to pursue the bright future we all want for our children. As we begin to grapple with a world without him, we must face the challenges of this moment with the same grit and perseverance he embodied. We are charged with picking up the torch and continuing the fight for justice and equality that was his life's work. John was called the conscience of Congress.' May the conscience of all in Congress and the Senate be awakened by his passing to finish John's efforts to restore integrity to the Voting Rights Act. John often encouraged getting into a little good trouble for a righteous cause' and he pursued the cause of racial justice with love, and as a uniter, not a divider. He taught me that heroes walk among us, and that true heroes are those that bring us together. We lost a true American hero today. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-mourns-death-iconic-civil-rights-leader-rev-ct-vivian,Rep. Sewell Mourns the Death of Iconic Civil Rights Leader Rev. C.T. Vivian,2020-07-17,2020,2020-07,Democrat,House,AL,Terri Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,,,legacy,"Birmingham, AL Today, with a heavy heart, Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) mourns the passing of Rev. C.T. Vivian, an unparalleled organizer, pastor and activist whose leadership in the Civil Rights Movement, and especially in Selma, helped to push our nation forward, and led to the passage of the landmark Voting Rights Act of 1965. Adedicated memberof Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s civil rights planning team, Rev. C.T. Vivian organized sit-ins across the southeast, rode the first Freedom Bus and is credited with playing a crucial role in the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.He was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2013 by President Obama, which is the highest civilian honor. Today, I join with the nation in mourning a national treasure. As our country continues to grapple with the deep-seeded inequities and structural racism that have, for centuries, prevented Black Americans from realizing the true promise of the American Dream, the work of Rev. C.T. Vivian is increasingly important and inspiring,said Rep. Sewell.May we rededicate ourselves to his life's work and find solace in the strength and fortitude of Rev. C.T. Vivian, whose bravery and persistence should serve as a model for all who seek to right the wrongs of structural racism and inequality. It is his fighting spirit and heart for service that I will continue to call upon in moments of challenge. Born in Boonville, Missouri in 1924, Rev. C.T. Vivian was a lifelong man of faith and a committed Foot Soldier in civil rightsprotestsacross the southeast. He was instrumental in organizing sit-ins in Nashville, Tennessee; in organizing the Selma Voting Rights Movement; and served on the Southern Christian Leadership's (SCLC) staff in Birmingham, Alabama; Selma, Alabama; Chicago, Illinois; Washington, D.C.; Danville, Virginia; and St. Augustine, Florida. Rev. C.T. Vivian remained a devoted advocate for civil rights until his passing, speaking at public events and offering workshops across the country.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.jones.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-doug-jones-praises-governor-iveys-decision-to-enact-statewide-mask-ordinance,Senator Doug Jones Praises Governor Ivey's Decision to Enact Statewide Mask Ordinance,2020-07-15,2020,2020-07,Democrat,House,AL,Doug Jones,J000300,www.jones.senate.gov,,,legacy,"BIRMINGHAM-U.S. Senator Doug Jones (D-Ala.) today praised Alabama Governor Kay Ivey's decision to enact a statewide mask ordinance and limits on public gatherings. With COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations, and deaths rising across Alabama, Senator Jones has continued to urge Alabamians to follow guidance from public health officials to wear masks, social distance, and stay home as much as possible. ""Governor Ivey did the right thing today by enacting a statewide mask policy. Unlike her counterparts in other Deep South states, Governor Ivey is clearly following the advice of health care professionals. Many Alabama communities in COVID-19 hotspots have already taken this step, which will help limit the spread of this virus and reduce the strain on our struggling hospitals and health care workers, and it just makes sense to do it on a statewide basis said Senator Jones, a member of the Senate Health Committee. ""We all want to move past this deadly, disruptive pandemic. By taking the simple steps of wearing a mask and social distancing, we can each do our part to protect lives and livelihoods."" The mask ordinance goes into effect at 5:00 p.m. CT tomorrow. More details about the order areavailable here. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-announces-4-million-federal-grant-funding-dannon-project,Rep. Sewell Announces $4 Million in Federal Grant Funding for the Dannon Project,2020-07-08,2020,2020-07,Democrat,House,AL,Terri Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,,,legacy,"Birmingham, AL Today, Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced $4 million in federal grant funding to be awarded to the Dannon Project through the U.S. Department of Labor's Pathway Home grant program which focuses on assisting justice involved individuals with community re-entry and employment. The Dannon Project, a 501(c)(3) non-profit located in Birmingham, Alabama, helps non-violent offenders who have been involved in the criminal justice system with re-entry by providing valuable resources such as short-term training, certifications, job placement and case management, beginning six months prior to release. As we continue to reexamine systems of racial inequity and oppression, I am grateful for organizations like the Dannon Project who work to fill in the gaps left by our deeply flawed criminal justice system,said Rep. Sewell.In a state with one of the most underfunded and violent prison systems, with one of the highest rates of overall incarceration in the country, and where Black Americans are jailed at 3.3 times the rate of white Americans, we can clearly see the need for the work of the Dannon Project. Of course, this funding is just a drop in the bucket of what is needed for true reform, but it is a step in the right direction. The Dannon Project is thankful to receive this awardand for the opportunity to make an impact incommunities we serve,said Kerri Pruitt, Executive Director of the Dannon Project.Under the Pathway Home program, enrolled participants will have the option to follow one or more of three job training tracks: Industry-Recognized Credentials; Pre-Apprenticeship; or Career Pathways. The first two opportunities focus on training and job placement in employment sectors predicted to have the greatest job growth and/or high demand for skilled workers within the major industries of Birmingham's regional economy. The third option, Career Pathways, will focus on facilitating participants' enrollment at post-secondary institutions to attain educational credentials for their desired areas of employment. In July, 2019, the Dannon Project received $6 million in grant funding also through the Department of Labor.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.jones.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/amid-reports-of-alabamians-camping-overnight-for-unemployment-assistance-senator-doug-jones-calls-for-more-federal-funding-and-support-for-state-departments-of-labor,"Amid Reports of Alabamians Camping Overnight for Unemployment Assistance, Senator Doug Jones Calls for More Federal Funding and Support for State Departments of Labor",2020-07-02,2020,2020-07,Democrat,House,AL,Doug Jones,J000300,www.jones.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON U.S. Senator Doug Jones(D-Ala.)today is urging Senate leadership for additional federal funding and support for state departments of labor, which have been overwhelmed by the wave of unemployment insurance claims. This also comes as disturbing reports emerge out of Montgomery, where Alabamians have been camping out overnight outside of an unemployment claims center in search of help with their claims. As the nation continues to struggle with the health and economic repercussions of the coronavirus pandemic, Congress must do more to help those who are suffering from unemployment as a result. Alabama's unemployment rate in May was 9.9%, and my home state is facing a 70% increase in the evictions of renters,Senator Jones, a member of the Senate Banking Committee, wrote.This hardship is sadly not unique to Alabama, and Americans across the country are struggling to pay their bills, to keep the lights on, and to put food on their tables. A recentarticlein theMontgomeryAdvertiserdetailed a line of unemployed Alabamians that has formed for weeks in a parking lot outside an Alabama Department of Labor (ADOL) claim processing center, with many sleeping outside overnight in the rain or participating in a black market system of selling spots in the line. While the ADOL has noted that an in-person presence is not required to file or resolve unemployment claims, technical glitches and difficulties reaching ADOL staff have so frustrated claimants that for many, traveling to Montgomery seems to be the only remaining option. These claimants seek such urgent relief that they have been camping out overnight in the hopes that their claims will be resolved. To make matters worse, Alabama's unemployment fund is on track to become insolvent within the next month or two,Senator Jones continued. As we continue to observe the grave status of unemployment and its repercussions on our nation, I urge the leadership of the Senate to consider including language that addresses unemployment issues in the next pandemic relief legislation in July. I respectfully urge the inclusion of language providing greater availability of federal funds for state Departments of Labor, to ensure that hardworking Americans can rely on temporary monetary aid to help feed their families and keep a roof over their heads during these trying times,the letter concluded. Senator Jones has been a strong advocate for support for working Alabamians throughout the COVID-19 crisis. He has introducedlegislationto cover the wages and benefits of employees of affected businesses and non-profits until the economic and public health crisis is resolved, and during the negotiations for the CARES Act,he proposed the Small Business Lifeline fund to direct financial assistance to workers through payroll processing companies.Senator Joneshas also called for the Treasury Department and the Small Business Administration to allow payroll processing companies to disburse the CARES Act small business loans to reduce complications and expedite salaries to workers who have been impacted by the coronavirus. Full text of the letter can be foundhereand below. July 1, 2020 The Honorable Mitch McConnell The Honorable Charles Schumer Majority Leader Minority Leader United States Senate United States Senate 317 Russell Senate Office Building 322 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Majority Leader McConnell and Minority Leader Schumer: As the nation continues to struggle with the health and economic repercussions of the coronavirus pandemic, Congress must do more to help those who are suffering from unemployment as a result. Alabama's unemployment rate in May was 9.9%, and my home state is facing a 70% increase in the evictions of renters. This hardship is sadly not unique to Alabama, and Americans across the country are struggling to pay their bills, to keep the lights on, and to put food on their tables. Millions of Americans have lost their jobs during this pandemic, and have turned to the unemployment benefits provided by programs in the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. These newly created programs have created a much-needed lifeline for folks across the country. Most notably, the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) program, the Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC) program, and the Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC) program were created to ensure states would be able to expand coverage of unemployment benefits given the outsized nature of the pandemic on employment. However, the majority of State Departments of Labor have been experiencing great difficulties in updating their technical systems to withstand the sudden influx of numerous claims, disbursing benefit payments efficiently to claimants, and effectively communicating with claimants who may be frustrated with the speed at which their claims are processed. The Alabama Department of Labor (ADOL) has disbursed nearly $2 billion in COVID-19 related unemployment compensation benefits under the PUA, FPUC, and PEUC programs. While ADOL has been working incredibly hard for Alabamians, phone call lines remain jammed, and benefits take significant time to process. ADOL has received 576,314 unemployment claims to date, and the Department is staffed enough to field less than 4% of the calls it receives per day. Since the crisis began, ADOL typically receives 210,000 calls per day; yet only 6,000 to 7,000 of those calls can be processed each day. Put simply, ADOL is overwhelmed by the massive influx of claims. An article in the Montgomery Advertiser, enclosed with this letter, details the difficulties that Alabamians are experiencing. In an effort to address claims more efficiently, ADOL opened an in-person claims center in Montgomery, Alabama, but it too was inundated by the unmanageable number of claimants. While the ADOL has noted that an in-person presence is not required to file or resolve unemployment claims, technical glitches and difficulties reaching ADOL staff have so frustrated claimants that for many, traveling to Montgomery seems to be the only remaining option. These claimants seek such urgent relief that they have been camping out overnight in the hopes that their claims will be resolved. To make matters worse, Alabama's unemployment fund is on track to become insolvent within the next month or two. This is not the first time in recent times that state unemployment funds were in need of aid from the federal government. During the Great Recession, states that exhausted unemployment benefit funds were able to borrow from the Treasury Department to strengthen their funds. Given these dire economic times for state and local governments, the ability to access federal funds should be available once again to cover the costs associated with unemployment benefits. As we continue to observe the grave status of unemployment and its repercussions on our nation, I urge the leadership of the Senate to consider including language that addresses unemployment issues in the next pandemic relief legislation in July. I respectfully urge the inclusion of language providing greater availability of federal funds for state Departments of Labor, to ensure that hardworking Americans can rely on temporary monetary aid to help feed their families and keep a roof over their heads during these trying times. Sincerely, Senator Doug Jones ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.jones.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-jones-portman-brown-braun-bennet-and-reps-upton-and-clyburn-introduce-bipartisan-bicameral-legislation-to-accelerate-broadband-access-nationwide,"Senators Jones, Portman, Brown, Braun, Bennet and Reps. Upton & Clyburn Introduce Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation to Accelerate Broadband Access Nationwide",2020-07-02,2020,2020-07,Democrat,House,AL,Doug Jones,J000300,www.jones.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC Today, U.S. Senators Doug Jones (D-Ala.), Rob Portman (R-Ohio), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Mike Braun (R-Ind.), and Michael Bennet (D-Colo.) introduced theRural Broadband Acceleration Act, bipartisan legislation that will bolster efforts to expand access to rural broadband nationwide and speed up the distribution of the Federal Communication Commission's (FCC) Rural Digital Opportunity Fund (RDOF). The RDOF will allocate $20.4 billion to building rural broadband in two phases and this legislation will ensure that some of that money is distributed to communities much faster than the original deadline. TheRural Broadband Acceleration Actalso directs the FCC to adhere to the Universal Service requirement in federal law, which is a joint responsibility for the federal and state governments. The Universal Service requirement states that all people in rural areas must have access to telecommunications and information services that are reasonably comparable, in both speed and price, to the services in urban areas. Thus, this legislation will allow rural America to have the same level of broadband service enjoyed by cities and suburbs across the country. Representative Fred Upton (R-Mich.) and House Majority Whip Jim Clyburn (D-S.C.) have introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives. Access to reliable and fast broadband is vital for health care, banking, education, communication, and so many other parts of everyday life,said Senator Jones.We can't allow rural communities without affordable broadband access to be left behind simply because they don't have the right tools. This legislation is an important step in making sure rural Alabamians will have the same opportunities as other folks do. In today's technology-dependent world, with many people still working from home during the pandemic, we must do more to bring high-speed internet and stronger grid infrastructure to the rural areas of our country. Rural America deserves the same level of access to broadband and this legislation will help to get it to them faster. Without this legislation, many rural Americans would not have access to reliable internet and thus would not be able to safely telework, use telehealth services, or attend virtual classrooms. In today's economy, limited access to broadband is hurting our efforts to promote economic development and job creation across rural Ohio and America. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting this common-sense, bipartisan legislation,said Senator Portman. The better your internet connection, the better you're able to protect yourself you need broadband to apply for unemployment, or to order groceries, or to have a telemedicine appointment,said Senator Brown.But thousands of Ohioans don't have a reliable internet connection. It's either not available where they live, or it's prohibitively expensive. As we talk about ways to both get through this pandemic, and build a more just country that works for everyone, internet access must be part of our efforts. Securing access to high speed internet service is a one of the most important issues for rural Hoosiers,said Senator Braun.I am proud to join my colleagues in this effort which will help begin these broadband infrastructure projects nearly a year ahead of schedule. Millions of Americans still lack access to high-speed broadband, which means they don't have access to online learning, teleworking, and telemedicine at the very moment they're most needed during the COVID-19 pandemic,said Senator Bennet.This common-sense, bipartisan proposal says that if we have shovel-ready projects that will deliver the highest broadband speeds in the communities that need them most, we should accelerate their funding and do everything we can to clear their path. Communities without broadband access in Colorado and across the country need access nowand we need to act. During the coronavirus crisis, millions of Americans have adjusted to spending more time at home working, running their business, taking classes, and zooming with friends and family,said Rep. Upton.But too many Americans have found themselves without access to dependable broadband services - especially in rural counties like in southwest Michigan making those tasks nearly impossible to do. With so much uncertainty in today's world, Americans should be able to be certain about this: affordable, reliable internet. If we can pass this bipartisan, bicameral bill and implement it, it might be one of the biggest leaps for rural America in our lifetime. Telework, telemedicine, and distance learning are impossible without broadband access. Nearly 1 in 10 South Carolina households lack access to a reliable broadband connection,House Majority Whip Clyburn said. Tens of thousands of children in South Carolina have not been able to participate in online learning since this crisis began. Our bipartisan legislation will fund hundreds of rural broadband construction projects immediately. Rural America cannot afford to wait another day. This legislation is supported by the National Association of Realtors (NAR); National Association of Homebuilders (NAHB); Internet and Television Association (NCTA); Fiber Broadband Association (FBA); National Rural Health Association (NRHA); Utility Technology Council (UTC); Corning; Conexon; and CoBank. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.jones.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-doug-jones-calls-for-senate-action-following-house-approval-of-medicaid-expansion-incentives,Senator Doug Jones Calls for Senate Action Following House Approval of Medicaid Expansion Incentives,2020-06-30,2020,2020-06,Democrat,House,AL,Doug Jones,J000300,www.jones.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON U.S. Senator Doug Jones (D-Ala.) today called for the U.S. Senate to take action on his legislation to incentivize Alabama and other non-expansion states to expand Medicaid. Last night, the U.S. House of Representatives approved a broad package to expand access to quality, affordable health care. Senator Jones'States Achieving Medicaid Expansion (SAME) Actwas included in the House-approved legislation, and would provide the same federal reimbursement to states that expand today as those that chose to expand at the first opportunity. As more folks lose their employer-sponsored health care in Alabama amid the current economic and health crisis, the need to expand Medicaid is growing more urgent by the day. While Alabama has refused to take this common-sense step for years, and denied over 340,000 people access to health care, I believe states should still get a fair deal if they expand today. My legislation would ensure late-expanding states get the same level of federal reimbursement funding as those that took this step years ago. The Senate needs to follow the House's lead in approving these incentives, which will help shore up Alabama's struggling hospitals, create 30,000 good new jobs in our state, and bring quality health care to people who need it,said Senator Jones, a member of the Senate Health Committee. The Alabama Hospital Association (ALAHA) estimates that expanding Medicaid in Alabama would generate an $11.4 billion economic impact and $715 million in additional state and local taxes. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, ALAHA had estimated that 88-percent of Alabama hospitals were operating in the red. Since 2011, when federal support for Medicaid expansion was first available, 14 Alabama hospitals have closed their doors, eight of which were in rural areas. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-votes-favor-patient-protection-and-affordable-care,"Rep. Sewell Votes in Favor of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Enhancement Act, with Renewed Medicaid Expansion Incentives",2020-06-29,2020,2020-06,Democrat,House,AL,Terri Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. Today, Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) voted in favor of H.R. 1425, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Enhancement Act, which will lower American's health coverage costs, combat inequity in health coverage in communities of color, crack down on junk plans, strengthen protections for people with pre-existing conditions, and incentivize hold-out states like Alabama to expand Medicaid. This bill includes the Incentivizing Medicaid Expansion Act (H.R. 584), legislation that Rep. Sewell sponsored to renew the Affordable Care Act's (ACA) original expanded federal match for states adopting Medicaid expansion, regardless of when they expand, providing critical federal funds to uncovered Alabamians in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic. As COVID-19 cases continue to spike across the state of Alabama without any indication of flattening or decreasing, I am deeply concerned for residents across my district and particularly throughout the rural Black Belt who lack access to health insurance and coverage, said Rep. Sewell. The state's refusal to expand Medicaid, which would provide much needed coverage to these communities, is particularly irresponsible in the face of this ongoing pandemic. The public health emergency and subsequent economic crisis currently facing our nation have made these uninsured and unemployed more vulnerable, our health care systems more fragile, and our state Medicaid programs more susceptible to budget cuts due to plummeting state revenues. The need for Medicaid expansion is as clear today as it has ever been. The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Enhancement Act would once again provide the state with an opportunity to expand Medicaid with the original expanded federal match. Research shows Medicaid expansion is associated with improvements in health outcomes and stronger financials for hospitals and health care providers. In Alabama alone, it is estimated that 314,000 more Alabamians would have access to health coverage if the state expanded Medicaid. A recent analysis found that Alabama would see a decrease of 43% in the uninsured rate if it expanded Medicaid, which is the largest decrease among states that haven't yet expanded. It is estimated that between 2014 and 2020, Alabama left $12 billion in federal funding on the table by refusing Medicaid expansion. The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Enhancement Act is part of Democrats' continued efforts to broaden healthcare access, making coverage and prescription drugs available and affordable for all Americans. As Republicans sue to declare the ACA invalid, removing coverage from millions of Americans, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Enhancement Act seeks to fortify the ACA, expanding coverage and ensuring that every American gets the health care they need, particularly in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic. Details on the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Enhancement Act: Lowers Americans' health coverage costs Expands tax credits to lower Americans' Marketplace health insurance premiums and allow more middle-class individuals and families to qualify for subsidies for the first time, no person will pay more than 8.5 percent of their income on a silver plan in the Marketplaces An adult earning $19,140 would see premiums cut to zero, saving $800 dollars a year. A family of four earning $40,000 would save nearly $1,600 in premiums each year. A single adult with income of $31,900 would see premiums cut in half. A 64-year-old earning $57,420 would save more than $8,700 in premiums each year. Ensures that families who don't have an offer of affordable family coverage from an employer can qualify for subsidies in the Marketplaces. Provides funding for reinsurance initiatives to further lower premiums, deductibles, and other out-of-pocket costs. Expands coverage & pushes hold-out states to adopt Medicaid expansion Presses Medicaid expansion hold-out states to reconsider by renewing the ACA's original expanded federal matching for states that adopt the Medicaid expansion and progressively reducing administrative FMAP for those who continue to refuse. More than 4.8 million Americans have been cruelly excluded from coverage because states have refused to expand Medicaid. Funds critical federal and state efforts to increase health coverage enrollment, educate consumers of their health care rights, and help individuals navigate the health insurance system. Delivers funding for states who want to establish their own state-based Marketplaces. Combats inequity in health coverage faced by communities of color Fights the maternal mortality epidemic by requiring states to extend Medicaid or CHIP coverage to new mothers for 1-year post-partum. Protects vulnerable populations from losing health coverage by ensuring that Medicaid and CHIP beneficiaries receive a full 12 months of coverage once enrolled, protecting them from interruptions due to fluctuations in their income throughout the year. Improves Medicaid beneficiaries' access to primary care physicians, by reauthorizing the ACA's increased payments to primary care physicians who treat Medicaid recipients. Cracks down on junk plans & strengthens protections for people with pre-existing conditions Reverses the Trump Administration's expansion of junk health insurance plans that do not provide coverage for essential medical treatments and drugs, and that are allowed to discriminate against people with pre-existing medical conditions. Curtails the Trump Administration's efforts to give states waivers to undermine protections for people with pre-existing conditions and weaken standards for essential health benefits. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.jones.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-doug-jones-introduces-bipartisan-bill-to-help-alabama-schools-safely-reopen-this-fall,Senator Doug Jones Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Help Alabama Schools Safely Reopen this Fall,2020-06-29,2020,2020-06,Democrat,House,AL,Doug Jones,J000300,www.jones.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON -U.S. Senator Doug Jones has joined a bipartisan group of his colleagues in introducing a bill to help Alabama schools and colleges cover the costs of protecting students and educators from COVID-19. TheReopen Schools Safely Actwill establish a new federal grant program at the U.S. Department of Education to help school districts and colleges reopen this fall. With school systems and universities across the country and in Alabama announcing their plans to bring back in-person learning this fall, we need to make sure schools can keep students, teachers, and other education staff safe and healthy. School budgets are already being cut due to the economic impacts of the pandemic, leaving schools with complex changes and adjustments to make without much funding to do it. It's time for Congress to step up to fill the gap so students can safely get back to the classroom and parents can return to work with some peace of mind,said Senator Jones, a member of the Senate Education Committee. We appreciate very much the bipartisan sponsorship of this bill which strives to keep students safe at such a crucial time in their lives and college careers. Senators Jones, Stabenow and Cassidy are to be commended for their efforts. We are deeply grateful for their support through this bipartisan legislation.said Dr. John W. Stewart, III, President of the University of Montevallo. Ryan Hollingsworth, Executive Director of the School Superintendents of Alabama, saidSuperintendents support the efforts of Senator Jones, Senator Stabenow and Senator Cassidy to pass legislation to help our schools open and operate safely in August. Alabama recently released guidance on the reopening of schools and one of the highest priorities is to provide a safe environment for learning. To provide safe classrooms and school environments, during this pandemic, our schools will have a tremendous increase in costs and at the same time, we are experiencing a loss in local revenue. This proposal would go a long way in providing the resources for keeping students, teachers, classrooms and schools safe. With the grant funding from this bill, school districts and colleges will have flexibility to use these funds for any expense needed to meet Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, state, and local guidelines for mitigating the spread of COVID-19. These expenses include personal protective equipment, sanitation supplies, temperature-screening equipment, certified COVID-19 tests, and more. A conservative analysis by the School Superintendents Association found that an average school district needs up to $1.8 million to reopen safely. Governors, who will apply for the funding, will have the flexibility to determine the distribution of funds to local school districts, colleges, and universities based on the needs of their state. The program is intended to be temporary and includes a sunset provision for 2023. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-remarks-press-conference-highlighting-7th-anniversary-supreme,Rep. Sewell Remarks at Press Conference Highlighting the 7th Anniversary of the Supreme Courts Shelby v. Holder Decision,2020-06-26,2020,2020-06,Democrat,House,AL,Terri Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) spoke at a press conference this morning with Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Majority Leader Steny Hoyer and Democratic Whip Jim Clyburn to highlight the 7th anniversary of the Supreme Court's Shelby County v. Holder decision and to reflect on the state of voting rights in America. Below are Sewell's remarks and video is available here. Rep. Terri Sewell: Good morning. I'm Congresswoman Terri Sewell from Alabama's 7th Congressional District and I'm honored to be joined by Speaker Pelosi, Leader Hoyer, Whip Clyburn today as we acknowledge seven years yesterday was the 7th anniversary of the Shelby County v. Holder decision, which gutted the Voting Rights Act of 1965, removing federal oversight from states with a proven track record of voter suppression. We have seen in those seven years over 30 states institute more restrictive ID requirements for voting. Likewise, we've seen a consolidation of polling locations, purging of rolls. We have seen a resurgence by states to suppress the vote. In December, I am proud to say that elections do have consequences and the American people spoke up and spoke out in the 2018 election and ushered in a Democratic House majority. I am so honored that this Caucus, and that this House passed H.R. 4, a bill that I was proud to be a lead sponsor, and which would put the teeth back into the Voting Rights Act, ensuring fair voting practices for all Americans. In Shelby v. Holder, the Supreme Court was clear that the onus was on Congress to come up with a modern-day formula. They struck down Section 4b, which provided the formula for covered jurisdictions that needed to be pre-cleared in order to have changes in voting laws. So Section 5 is intact, which is the pre-clearance provision, but Congress has to put the teeth back into the Voting Rights Act by coming up with a new Section 4b. And that's exactly what H.R. 4 does. H.R. 4 provides a modern formula with a recent look at voter discrimination by states and jurisdictions across this nation. And, so we are very proud that we were able to pass H.R. 4, but like so many of our bipartisan bills and it did pass with one Republican supporting H.R. 4 H.R 4 is currently languishing in the Senate, where Senator McConnell refuses to call it up for a vote. Why voting rights have become a partisan issue frankly is baffling to me. When we think about Congress passing not one, not two, but three re-authorizations of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, and now, all of a sudden, our Republican colleagues have been using voting rights as a partisan issue. As elected officials, we should be working tirelessly to ensure all Americans are able to vote. Over the past weeks, as our country been grappling with the devastating murders of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery and Breonna Taylor, we have also opened the doors to deeper and more substantive discussions about race, racism, and institutional racism in America. You know, a lot of my white colleagues and friends have reached out to me with questions, especially regarding the nature of institutional or systemic racism. They want to know what it looks like and how it manifests itself. And I believe that there is no more obvious example of institutional racism than voter discrimination and the anti-democratic practices that bar Black Americans from exercising their fundamental right to vote. So, you ask: what does racism in voting look like? Well, in the not-so-distant past, this looked like literacy tests, poll taxes, and making African Americans guess how many jellybeans are in a jar or recite how many counties are in the state of Alabama in order to get registered to vote. Today, voter discrimination looks like what we saw just this week in Kentucky and last week and in 2018 in states like Georgia polling stations shut down in African American neighborhoods with Black voters waiting in line for hours on end; voters purged from rolls on technicalities; and strengthening and tightening of ID laws that disproportionately impact disadvantaged communities. Shutting down polling stations in neighborhoods of color; insisting upon forms of ID that require time and money to obtain; limiting access to polling locations so that only car owners with flexible jobs and childcare have the ability to vote this is modern-day, systemic racism in voting. It is voter suppression. Ahead of our upcoming presidential election and given the ongoing concerns about in-person voting, it is more important now than ever that we renew our call that H.R. 4 is taken up and passed in the Senate and signed into law. Our vote is our voice. The people know that our democracy is strongest when every American is able to make their voices heard at the ballot box. Today, I am honored to be joined by the incredible leadership of the House of Representatives colleagues, honored to have Speaker Pelosi, and Leader Hoyer and Whip Clyburn standing up for all Americans having access to the ballot box. You know, this is personal for me. Not only do I represent the civil rights district of Alabama, my district includes Birmingham, and Montgomery, and my hometown of Selma, Alabama. The legacy of this district is that ordinary Americans aggrieved their nation, protested, bled, died fought for their right to vote on a bridge in my hometown. That legacy must be upheld, and I am proud that House Democrats and the House democratic majority has taken H.R. 4 and passed it across the finish line. We must now call upon the Senate to do the same thing. We are honored next to hear from Speaker Pelosi. Thank you so much, Madame Speaker.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-statement-curbside-voting-and-absentee-ballot-ruling,Rep. Sewell Statement on Curbside Voting and Absentee Ballot Ruling,2020-06-25,2020,2020-06,Democrat,House,AL,Terri Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) released the following statement regarding the 11th Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals' ruling blocking the state of Alabama from enforcing witness and photo ID requirements for certain high-risk absentee voters in Jefferson, Lee and Mobile counties during the July 14 run-off election, due to the coronavirus pandemic: Today's ruling is great news for Alabama voters. While the ruling was limited to Jefferson, Lee and Mobile counties and only lifted the restrictions for seniors and the disabled absentee voters, the federal court made it clear that during the COVID-19 pandemic, Alabama's restrictive voting requirements do not outweigh the risks to human life. These practices are modern-day barriers to the ballot box that not only make voting harder, but also making voting dangerous given the coronavirus' associated health risks. I call on the State of Alabama to lift the witness and photo ID restrictions on absentee ballots for everyone statewide and for all elections during the COVID-19 pandemic. All Alabamians are safer voting absentee during this public health crisis. No one should have to risk death or severe illness to exercise their fundamental right to vote! Video of Rep. Sewell is available here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/sewell-commends-house-passage-george-floyd-justice-policing-act,Sewell Commends House Passage of the George Floyd Justice In Policing Act,2020-06-25,2020,2020-06,Democrat,House,AL,Terri Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. Today, the House of Representatives passed by a vote of 236-181 H.R. 7120, the George Floyd Justice In Policing Act, the first-ever bold, comprehensive legislation designed to hold police accountable, change the culture of law enforcement and build trust between law enforcement and our communities.U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) commended the passage and urged her Senate colleagues to take up the bill and pass it without delay. Tens of thousands of Americans have taken to the streets in the past few weeks demanding racial justice and comprehensive reform within our law enforcement systems. Now is not the time to be timid. Shopping, jogging or sleeping while Black should not be a death sentence, Sewell said. There is no doubt in my mind that George, Ahmaud, Breonna and Elijah would still be with us were our policing systems following the letter of the law without racial bias, and were our law enforcement officers held accountable. This moment must be different. The Justice In Policing Act will help save lives and, importantly, hold police accountable. In contrast to the Senate bill, this legislation contains meaningful, mandatory accountability measures to end misconduct, Sewell continued. I urge the Senate to take up and consider the Justice In Policing Act without delay. Specifically, the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act of 2020 will: Work to End Racial & Religious Profiling Prohibits federal, state, and local law enforcement from racial, religious and discriminatory profiling. Mandates training on racial, religious, and discriminatory profiling for all law enforcement. Requires law enforcement to collect data on all investigatory activities. Save Lives by Banning Chokeholds & No-Knock Warrants Bans chokeholds and carotid holds at the federal level and conditions law enforcement funding for state and local governments banning chokeholds. Bans no-knock warrants in drug cases at the federal level and conditions law enforcement funding for state and local governments, banning no-knock warrants at the local and state level. Requires that deadly force be used only as a last resort and requires officers to employ de-escalation techniques first. Changes the standard for evaluating whether law enforcement use of force was justified from whether the force was reasonable to whether the force was necessary. Condition grants on state and local law enforcement agencies' establishing the same use of force standard. Limit Military Equipment on American Streets & Requires Body Cameras Limits the transfer of military-grade equipment to state and local law enforcement. Requires federal uniformed police officers to wear body cameras and requires state and local law enforcement to use existing federal funds to ensure the use of police body cameras. Requires marked federal police vehicles to have dashboard cameras. Hold Police Accountable in Court Makes it easier to prosecute offending officers by amending the federal criminal statute to prosecute police misconduct. The mens rea requirement in 18 U.S.C. Section 242 will be amended from willfulness to a recklessness standard. Enables individuals to recover damages in civil court when law enforcement officers violate their constitutional rights byeliminatingqualified immunity for law enforcement. Investigate Police Misconduct Improves the use of pattern and practice investigations at the federal level by granting the Department of Justice Civil Rights Division subpoena power and creates a grant program for state attorneys general to develop authority to conduct independent investigations into problematic police departments. Empower Our Communities to Reimagine Public Safety in an Equitable and Just Way This bill reinvests in our communities by supporting critical community-based programs to change the culture of law enforcement and empower our communities to reimagine public safety in an equitable and just way. It establishes public safety innovation grants for community-based organizations to create local commissions and task forces to help communities to re-imagine and develop concrete, just and equitable public safety approaches. These local commissions would operate similar to President Obama's Task Force on 21st Century Policing. Change the Culture of Law Enforcement with Training to Build Integrity and Trust Requires the creation of law enforcement accreditation standard recommendations based on President Obama's Taskforce on 21st Century policing. Creates law enforcement development and training programs to develop best practices. Studies the impact of laws or rules that allow a law enforcement officer to delay answers to questions posed by investigators of law enforcement misconduct. Enhances funding for pattern and practice discrimination investigations and programs managed by the DOJ Community Relations Service. Requires the Attorney General to collect data on investigatory actions and detentions by federal law enforcement agencies; the racial distribution of drug charges; the use of deadly force by and against law enforcement officers; as well as traffic and pedestrian stops and detentions. Establishes a DOJ task force to coordinate the investigation, prosecution and enforcement efforts of federal, state and local governments in cases related to law enforcement misconduct. Improve Transparency by Collecting Data on Police Misconduct and Use-of-Force Creates a nationwide police misconduct registry to prevent problematic officers who are fired or leave one agency, from moving to another jurisdiction without any accountability. Mandates state and local law enforcement agencies to report use of force data, disaggregated by race, sex, disability, religion, age. Stop Sexual Assault in Law Enforcement Custody Makes it a crime for a federal law enforcement officer to engage in a sexual act with an individual who is under arrest, in detention, or in custody. It prohibits consent as a defense to prosecution for unlawful conduct. Incentivizes states to set the same standards.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.jones.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/us-chamber-of-commerce-awards-senator-doug-jones-spirit-of-enterprise-award-for-pro-growth-bipartisan-record,"U.S. Chamber of Commerce Awards Senator Doug Jones “Spirit of Enterprise” Award for Pro-Growth, Bipartisan Record",2020-06-23,2020,2020-06,Democrat,House,AL,Doug Jones,J000300,www.jones.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON The U.S.ChamberofCommerceannouncedthat U.S. Senator Doug Jones (D-Ala.) was awarded the 2020 U.S. Chamber Spirit of Enterprise Award. This award recognizes members of Congress who have shown their commitment to not only supporting pro-business legislation, but also commitment to bipartisan leadership and constructive governing necessary to move our country forward. Pro-growth policies contribute to good jobs and improve the quality of life for the folks I serve, and I am always looking for opportunities to work across the aisle to advance those efforts,Senator Jones said.I am grateful to the U.S. Chamber for this honor and I will continue to make it my top priority to improve the lives of Alabamians by championing policies that expand economic opportunity. In these uncertain times with daunting economic and social challenges facing our nation, it is imperative that leaders in Washington are focused on propelling American businesses forward to create jobs and economic growth from California to Maine,said U.S Chamber of Commerce CEO, Thomas J. Donohue. As we rebuild our economy, legislators must lead by pursuing bipartisan solutions that create jobs and promote a free enterprise system. I'm proud to recognize these 259 Members of Congress for their commitment to driving opportunity and prosperity in America's workforce and on Main Streets across the nation. The U.S.ChamberofCommerceis the world's largest business federation representing the interestsofmore thanthreemillion businessesofall sizes, sectors, and regions, as well as state and localchambers and industry associations. Senator Jones was also awarded theU.S Chamber of CommerceJefferson-Hamilton Award for Bipartisanshipand theAbraham Lincoln Leadership for America Awardearlier this month.Senator Jones is oneofonly two senators to have earned both honors this year. The announcement came during the First Annual U.S.ChamberofCommerceGoverning with Distinction Ceremony. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-statement-opposing-alabama-ag-decision-appeal-voter-access,Rep. Sewell Statement Opposing Alabama AG Decision to Appeal Voter Access Ruling,2020-06-19,2020,2020-06,Democrat,House,AL,Terri Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,,,legacy,"Birmingham, AL U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) released the following statement today after Alabama Attorney General's office announced, on behalf of Secretary of State John Merril, the state would appeal U.S. District Judge Abdul K. Kallon's ruling relaxing absentee ballot procedures and allowing curbside voting for the July 14 runoff: Judge Kallon's ruling, while narrow, would ensure that seniors in Jefferson, Mobile and Lee Counties do not have to risk their lives to make their voices heard at the ballot box. The secretary of state should be working to ensure the safety of all Alabamians as they cast their votes by extending the order to the entire state not appealing it in court. Our state has continuously instituted modern-day barrier to the ballot box. From DMV closures that make it more difficult to obtain a voter ID, to the strict requirements surrounding that ID and, now, steps taken to complicate absentee voting, our state stands as an example of just how necessary it is to restore the Voting Rights Act of 1965 to its full strength with the passage of the Voting Rights Advancement Act in the Senate. My pleas to increase access to the vote may fall on deaf ears in the halls of Alabama's GOP statehouse, but I must ask our state leaders: What are you so afraid of? Are you supporting suppressive measures because your own political interests are only realized when you limit access to the ballot box? Thelawsuitdecided earlier this week seeks to overturn requirements that a notary or two witnesses sign an absentee ballot and suspend a requirement that voters include a photocopy of their personal identification with ballots and to allow curbside voting in Jefferson, Mobile and Lee Counties. The Southern Poverty Law Center, the NAACP Legal Defense Fund and the Alabama Disabilities Advocacy Program filed the lawsuit against Gov. Kay Ivey, Alabama Secretary of State John Merrill and four county election officials.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-congressional-voting-rights-caucus-co-chairs-lead-resolution,"Rep. Sewell, Congressional Voting Rights Caucus Co-Chairs Lead Resolution to End Voter Suppression, Protect Integrity of Elections During COVID-19",2020-06-18,2020,2020-06,Democrat,House,AL,Terri Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. In advance of Juneteenth, U.S. Reps. Terri Sewell (AL-07), Marc Veasey (TX-33) and Bobby Scott (VA-03), co-chairs of the Congressional Voting Rights Caucus, introduced a resolution calling for the implementation of safeguards to protect the integrity of elections and end voter suppressioncrucial protections that would prevent widespread voting system malfunctions and voter discrimination in advance of the upcoming July 14 Alabama primary and November general election. Black Americans have faced obstacle after obstacle to exercise their right to vote for the more than 100 years since being consideredfull citizens under the Constitution,Sewell said.If our nation is ever to live up to its promise of liberty and justice for all, we must redouble our efforts to restore the Voting Rights Act of 1965 to its full strength, enact H.R. 4 into law and actively work to end every modern-day barrier to the ballot box. Over the past few months, we have seen widespread and unacceptable flaws in our electoral system that have shamelessly denied minorities the opportunity to be heardand participate in elections across the nation,Veasey said.On the 155thanniversary of Juneteenth, we praise the progress we have made, but acknowledge there is still much more to be done in the fight to ensure African Americans have the same constitutional rights and liberties that everyone deserves. Now more than ever, we must continue our fight to end oppressive voting laws and increase access to the polls to ensure that all Americans have the right to make their voices heard at the ballot box in the upcoming primaries and the general election this November. I am proud to join my co-chairs of the Congressional Voting Rights Caucus introducing a resolution commemorating Juneteenth and demanding fair elections. We must condemn and prevent discriminatory practices that discourage voter turnout in elections such as the closure of polling places, arbitrary voter ID laws, and purging voter rolls of eligible voters,""Scott said.""In the midst of this dangerous pandemic, Congress must work together to ensure access to the ballot box for all Americans by supporting vote by mail initiatives that make it easier to vote, not those designed to suppress the vote.Together, we must protect the cornerstone of our democracy - the sacred right to vote. The resolution commemorates the day that news of the abolition of slavery reached slaves in Galveston, Texas 155 years ago on June 19, by reaffirming Congress' commitment to protect the fundamental right of Black Americans and other minorities to vote. Specifically, the resolution aims to help minorities by including provisions that will support the implementation of transparent and inclusive election policies, the expansion of vote-by-mail and postage-paid absentee ballot options, the prioritization of disbursing election assistance funding to states that are disproportionately impacted by COVID-19 and the creation of a national task force through the Election Assistance Commission that would prioritize promoting safe voting practices during this pandemic. The resolution is particularly relevant in light of the Alabama Attorney General's decision yesterday to appeal a federal court ruling that would make it easier for some Alabamians to vote in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Congressional Voting Rights Caucus was founded in 2016 with the mission to educate the public on the current voter suppression tactics in place in their home states, districts and counties, inform constituencies on their rights as voters, and to create and advance legislation that blocks current and future suppressive and discriminatory tactics that deny Americans their sacred right to vote. The CVRC has over 70 members, and is co-chaired by Reps. Veasey, Sewell and Scott. The resolution is available here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.jones.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-doug-jones-introduces-bipartisan-legislation-to-strengthen-telemedicine-programs,Senator Doug Jones Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to Strengthen Telemedicine Programs,2020-06-18,2020,2020-06,Democrat,House,AL,Doug Jones,J000300,www.jones.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON U.S. Senator Doug Jones (D-Ala.) and a bipartisan group of his colleagues today introduced legislation designed to strengthen telemedicine programs in Alabama and across the U.S. The legislation directs the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to study telehealth programs across the country to learn how telehealth can be used more effectively in future health emergencies. The COVID-19 crisis has highlighted the benefits of telemedicine for our country's patients, providers and health care systems so that folks can stay healthy and safe and receive the care they need from their homes. This bill will help us continue to build our telehealth infrastructure so we can ensure that patients have access to these services, both during this pandemic and beyond,Senator Jones said. In a recurring report to be performed every five years, this legislation directs HHS to: conduct an inventory of telehealth initiatives in existence, including their capacity to handle increased volume during the response to a public health emergency; identify methods to expand and interconnect regional health information networks and state and regional broadband networks; evaluate ways to prepare for, monitor, respond rapidly to or manage the events of a public health emergency through the enhanced use of telehealth technologies; promote greater coordination among existing federal interagency telehealth and health information technology initiatives; and make recommendations related to updates on the use of telehealth in public health emergencies in Federal and State public health preparedness plans and any actions taken to implement such recommendations. Senator Jones has been a strong advocate for telemedicine during his time in the Senate. On Wednesday during the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, Senator Jonesquestionedtelehealth experts and health insurance executives on how to encourage remote monitoring and use of telemedicine in the private sector. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.jones.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/video-senator-doug-jones-leads-second-annual-bipartisan-reading-of-dr-martin-luther-king-jrs-letter-from-birmingham-jail-on-the-senate-floor,"VIDEO: Senator Doug Jones Leads Second Annual Bipartisan Reading of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s Letter from Birmingham Jail on the Senate Floor",2020-06-16,2020,2020-06,Democrat,House,AL,Doug Jones,J000300,www.jones.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Senator DougJones (D-Ala.) today led a bipartisan commemorative reading of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s Letter from Birmingham Jailin the United States Senate chamber. After a special introduction from Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.),Senator Jones was joinedin the reading by SenatorsSherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Tammy Duckworth (D- Ill.), John Kennedy (R-La.), James Lankford (R-Okla.),andMitt Romney (R-Utah). I believe the wisdom of this letter is perhaps the best frame to view how we move forward during this moment, the movement of this time, the movement of this generation,Senator Jones saidin his closing remarks.In passage after passage, Dr. King warns us how easily people can fall back to accepting the status quo how easily people can hear the word wait' when, in fact, that word means never.' From a jail cell in Birmingham, Alabama in 1963, Dr. King told us that action in that moment was critical so that issues of racism and inequality would no longer be ignored. And here we are, 57 years later and his words are still just as timely, that action in this moment our moment is likewise critical so that issues of systemic racism and inequality can finally be erased. This is the second year in a row Senator Jones has organized a reading of the Letter from Birmingham Jail on the Senate floor. You can view the complete reading of the letterhere. Individual clips of participating members, in event order, are also available here: Introduction: Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C). Senator John Kennedy (R-La.) Senator Doug Jones (D-Ala.) Senator James Lankford (R-Okla.) Senator Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio) Senator Mitt Romney (R-Utah) Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.) Closing Remarks: Senator Doug Jones (D-Ala.)",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-supports-renaming-edmund-pettus-bridge,Rep. Sewell Supports Renaming Edmund Pettus Bridge,2020-06-15,2020,2020-06,Democrat,House,AL,Terri Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,,,legacy,"U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) released the following statement today regarding the naming of the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, Alabama: In the wake of George Floyd's murder and the subsequent protests and outcry across the nation, there is no denying that this moment is different; our brothers and sisters Black and white are crying out for bold change. There is no denying that Selma's Edmund Pettus Bridgethe site where foot soldiers shed their blood in the name of equality and justice for all Americansis a powerful symbol of the civil rights movement. While I believe the historical significance of the bridge transcends the man for which it was named, I also acknowledge that in this moment everything must be on the table, and that includes renaming the bridge. My primary focus is on extending the rights of the living and not on the transgressions of the dead. The voices on the streets of the nation cry out to be heard and they demand real change. Removing Confederate memorials and renaming buildings is not the change they seek, but it is an important step in the process towards racial healing. We must be willing to do the easy things so that we can focus on making transformational change. To be clear: this moment requires removing any and all impediments to making the systemic changes our nation so desperately needs in policing, education, housing, economic policy and more. We must confront and reject Alabama's racist history and come together to implement the bold changes needed to ensure our nation finally lives up to its promise of equality and justice for all.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.jones.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-jones-urges-president-trump-to-appoint-civil-rights-cold-case-records-review-board-members,Senator Jones Urges President Trump to Appoint Civil Rights Cold Case Records Review Board Members,2020-06-12,2020,2020-06,Democrat,House,AL,Doug Jones,J000300,www.jones.senate.gov,,,legacy,"BIRMINGHAM U.S. Senator Doug Jones (D-Ala.)today wrote to President Donald Trump to urge him to appoint members to theCivil Rights Cold Case Records Review Board. While Congress passed Senator Jones' legislation to establish the board in 2018, and later appropriated $1 million requested by the Trump Administration to implement it, delays continue in the appointment of board members who would carry out the board's work. Senator Jones' bipartisanlegislation, theCivil Rights Cold Case Records Collection Act of 2018, required the review, declassification, and release of government records related to unsolved Civil Rights-era criminal cases. To do this work, it established a Civil Rights Cold Case Records Review Board and required that appointments to the board should be made within 60 days. When you signed theCivil Rights Cold CaseRecords CollectionAct of 2018on January 8, 2019, you helped this country take an important step towards finding truth and reconciliation for families and communities still struggling with the pain of unsolved civil rights crimes,Senator Jones wrote.As our country is once again grappling with important questions related to civil rights, I urge you to appoint the Civil Rights Cold Case Records Review Board as expeditiously as possible and fulfill the promise of this important legislation. Senator Jones, who successfully prosecuted two of the former Klansmen responsible for the bombing of the 16th Street Baptist Church, has long advocated for expanded public access to civil rights cold case records in an effort to uncover the truth. In 2007, he alsotestified to the House Judiciary Committeein support of theEmmett Till Unsolved Civil Rights Crimes Actthat established a special initiative in the U.S. Department of Justice to investigate civil rights cold cases. Full text of the letter can be foundhereand below. June 12, 2020 President Donald J. Trump The White House Office of the President 1600 Pennsylvania Ave, N.W. Washington, D.C. 20500 DearPresidentTrump, When you signed the Civil Rights Cold CaseRecords CollectionAct of 2018 (the Act) on January 8, 2019, you helped this country take an important step towards finding truth and reconciliation for families and communities still struggling with the pain of unsolved civil rights crimes. As you will recall, the Act requires government offices to submit files and records about civil rights cold cases to the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). The legislation also establishesaCivil Rights Cold Case Records Review Board tofacilitate the review, transmission to NARA, and public disclosure of the records related to these civil rights cold cases.The Act gives you the authority to appoint the members of the Review Board and provides that the appointments shall be made within 60 days of enactment. It is my understanding that the White House has received recommendations for the Review Board, as provided by the Act, but as of the date of this letter, no Board members have been appointed and no work has begun to fulfill the purposes of the Act. Although Congress appropriated $1 million in the FY20 budget for the work of the Board, we are nearing the fourth quarter of the fiscal year, and I am concerned that those funds will go unused if the Board is not put in place soon. In your January 8, 2019 signing statement, you said, the Administration considers civil rights cold cases to be a matter of public importance, and you encouraged Congress to appropriate funds to implement the goals of the Act, which your statement fully supported. As our country is once again grappling with important questions related to civil rights, I urge you to appoint the Civil Rights Cold Case Records Review Board as expeditiously as possible and fulfill the promise of this important legislation. If I or my staff can be of any assistance in this regard, please do not hesitate to contact me. Sincerely, Doug Jones United States Senator Cc: Senator Ted Cruz, original cosponsor of the Civil Rights Cold Case Records Collection Act of 2018 ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.jones.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-jones-champions-hundreds-of-millions-for-alabama-priorities-in-annual-defense-bill,Senator Jones Champions Hundreds of Millions for Alabama Priorities in Annual Defense Bill,2020-06-11,2020,2020-06,Democrat,House,AL,Doug Jones,J000300,www.jones.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Senator Doug Jones (D-Ala.) announced today funding for key Alabama priorities was included in the Fiscal Year 2021 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which was approved yesterday by the Senate Armed Services Committee. The annual legislation authorizes national defense priorities for the next fiscal year. The bill will now go to the full Senate for consideration. Alabama is an undisputed leader in securing our nation and this legislation recognizes that by providing significant funding for our troops, including a three-percent pay raise, and continued funding for our defense assets,said Senator Jones, who is a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee. Each year, this bill is an example of the kind of work we can do when we come together on a bipartisan basis around a common goal protecting our country and supporting our service members and their families. This bill provides the support and funding needed for Alabama to continue to lead in this effort, and I look forward to its passage in the full Senate soon. For the second year in a row, the NDAA provides a three-percent pay raise for service members. It also addresses several quality of life issues for military children and spouses, which can have direct impacts on military readiness. Alabama defense industry employees also benefit significantly from this bill's funding and workforce provisions, which in turn benefits the communities where they live and work. Key provisions in the FY 2021 NDAA for Alabama's servicemembers and their families, military installations, and contractors and research institutions are listed below. Strengthening Alabama's Defense Infrastructure and Industry $24 million for advanced electrical generation and storage facilities at Fort Rucker in Dale County; $23 million for next generation fighter aircraft (F-35) facilities at Maxwell Air Force Base; $18 million to construct a small arms parts demilitarization facility at the Anniston Army Depot; $10 million to help steel manufacturers meet future defense needs, protecting current and future employment of thousands in Birmingham; $5 million to improve efficiency and readiness at the Army's Aviation and Missile Center in Huntsville; and, $2 million for the Aerospace Education Research and Innovation Center (AERIC) at Tuskegee University, and a $5 million increase overall for Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Funding for Alabama's Contribution to the National Defense Strategy $349.7 million for an additional THAAD ballistic missile defense battery, key parts made in Troy; $35 million for Long Range Anti-Ship Missiles (LRASM), made in Troy; $10 million for research into lightweight power sources for Navy ships. The University of Alabama conducts leading edge research and development of silicon carbide power sources; $7.3 million for continued research and development of advanced plastics technology. The Mobile area is home to a company that is pioneering thermoplastic tailorable composite manufacturing; $5 million for research into advanced repair and modification processes. The University of Alabama is currently working with the DoD to develop these technologies; $5 million to complete development of new satellite technology. Huntsville is home to companies that are leaders in this field and are well-positioned to compete for these funds; $5 million to accelerate the Army helicopter modernization program. Bell Helicopter, in Ozark, is participating in this program; $3 million to develop a hypersonic missile testing facility. Huntsville is home to a number of companies that contribute to the Defense Department's hypersonics research and development; $10.5 million to build a high energy laser system lab to help with the Army's weapons modernization programs. The Army's high energy laser program is headquartered at Redstone and works with a number of Huntsville companies; and, $3 million for hybrid additive manufacturing research and development to help with the Army's weapons modernization programs. The additive manufacturing industry is robust and growing in Alabama, with research and development ongoing in Birmingham. Support to Improve the Safety and Health of Military Housing and Bases Requires the Secretary of Defense to implement within 90 days all applicable security and emergency response recommendations to protect U.S. military installations, which follows acall by Senator Jones to increase base securityafter Enterprise, Alabama native Joshua Kaleb Watson was killed during a terrorist attack at Naval Air Station Pensacola last year; and, Requires the Secretary of Defense to ensure that each installation conducts or develops a plan to conduct regular live emergency response training with first responders. Funding for Coronavirus Response Increases funding to support the Defense Department's coronavirus vaccine research and to integrate with other vaccine research programs; and, Authorizes hazard pay for troops deployed in response to the coronavirus. Expanding Support and Opportunity for Minority Service Members Authorizes pilot programs to reduce barriers to participation in satellite ROTC programs and to provide flight training scholarships at HBCUs; Takes steps toward identifying and eliminating barriers to minority participation in elite units in the armed forces; and, Supports continuing and expanding the Air Force JROTC pilot training scholarship program to increase diversity in the pilot ranks and address the pilot shortage. Support for Military Spouses and Children $50 million for Impact Aid to schools that serve military children; $20 million for aid to military children with disabilities; $15 million for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) youth educational programs (STARBASE); Authorizes a pilot program to expand eligibility for attendance at DoD schools for military dependent children living off-base; $4 million to continue development of interstate agreements on licensed occupations for military spouse; and, Increases reimbursement to military spouses for state licensure and certification costs resulting from relocations. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.jones.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/us-chamber-of-commerce-awards-senator-doug-jones-dual-honors-for-bipartisanship-and-responsible-governing,U.S. Chamber of Commerce Awards Senator Doug Jones Dual Honors for Bipartisanship and Pro-Growth Leadership,2020-06-09,2020,2020-06,Democrat,House,AL,Doug Jones,J000300,www.jones.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON The U.S. Chamber of Commerce todayannouncedthat U.S. Senator Doug Jones (D-Ala.) was awarded both its JeffersonHamilton Award for Bipartisanship and the Abraham Lincoln Leadership for America Award. Senator Jones is one of only two senators to have earned both honors this year, which recognize members of Congress who demonstrate the bipartisan leadership and constructive governing necessary to move our country forward. The announcement came during the First Annual U.S. Chamber of Commerce Governing with Distinction Ceremony. My number one priority is to improve the lives of folks in Alabama, and the best way to do that is to work across party lines to create jobs and to grow and protect our economy,""Senator Jones said.""Since I was sworn into the Senate in 2018, over a dozen of my bipartisan pieces of legislation have been signed into law because I've always tried to put common sense over political party. I'm grateful to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce for recognizing the value of bipartisanship and good policy, and I'm looking forward to continuing to work across the aisle to pass legislation that will improve the lives of Alabamians. The Chamber awards theJefferson-Hamilton Award for Bipartisanshipto senators and members of Congress who demonstrate a willingness to work across the aisle in support of common objectives, and theAbraham Lincoln Leadership for America Awardto senators and members of Congress who have demonstrated the leadership critical to advancing policies that support America's free enterprise system. This is the inaugural year for both awards. Now more than ever, our nation needs elected leaders with the courage to pursue common ground and bold, bipartisan solutions to America's greatest challenges,said U.S. Chamber President Suzanne Clark. These awards honor the deserving members of Congress that are forging common-sense sense solutions, working across the aisle, to enact lasting and meaningful reforms. In the days ahead, Congress must work together and support our nation's free enterprise principles that will help bring our economy back to strength and put our people back to work. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world's largest business federation representing the interests of more than 3 million businesses of all sizes, sectors, and regions, as well as state and local chambers and industry associations. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.jones.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-doug-jones-supports-senate-passage-of-reforms-to-emergency-small-business-loan-program,Senator Doug Jones Supports Senate Passage of Reforms to Emergency Small Business Loan Program,2020-06-03,2020,2020-06,Democrat,House,AL,Doug Jones,J000300,www.jones.senate.gov,,,legacy,"BIRMINGHAM Senator Doug Jones (D-Ala.) released the following statement this evening after the Senate approved legislation to reform the Paycheck Protection Program, an emergency small business loan program included in the CARES Act It will give borrowers more time to spend the money and allows them to use it on a broader set of expenses while still qualifying to have the loans forgiven an important step so that employers can maintain their payrolls. This is a good step toward fixing some of the problems we've seen with the Paycheck Protection Program, but there is still a lot of work to be done to help small businesses and workers weather the economic crisis we're facing. I'm going to continue to push House and Senate leadership to hold a vote on my legislation to cover wages and benefits for all affected workers until the crisis is over so that we can keep folks on payroll and cut the red tape that's slowing down this much needed relief. The bill now heads to the President to be signed into law. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-statement-response-birmingham-protests,Rep. Sewell Statement in Response to Birmingham Protests,2020-06-01,2020,2020-06,Democrat,House,AL,Terri Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,,,legacy,"Birmingham, AL U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) released the following statement today in response to the protests in Birmingham: To all those who feel marginalized because of the color of your skin: I see you and I hear you. Your pain and hopelessness is legitimate since the founding of our nation, our criminal justice system has failed our black and brown communities. My heart aches for George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor and the countless others whose senseless deaths have not made the national news cycle. As a daughter of Selma, I myself have struggled to reconcile with the moment in which we continue to find ourselves, over and over. The Foot Soldiers who came before us fought to create a better future; but every day we are reminded that that fight is far from over. They sacrificed their lives in pursuit of an America that lives up to its ideals an America that we have not yet reached more than 55 years later. The racism that causes our pain can be seen plainly in police brutality and in the staggering health disparities our communities have endured throughout this pandemic. It can be seen in thinly-veiled attempts to put African Americans in our place, holding on to and idolizing a time when our bodies were not our own. And it can be seen in the state-sanctioned holidays and monuments that honor the leaders of the Confederacy, including today, Jefferson Davis Day.' I also know that the vast majority of the Americans across the country and in Birmingham are peacefully protesting for social justice. The heroes of the Civil Rights Movement showed us it is possible to change history without damaging property and torching businesses that our community members depend on, so I implore all Alabamians to speak out and demand change without violence. We cannot let violence distract from the legitimate anger and frustration that we must channel toward action. I pray for both peace and justice. I wish I had all the answers and I could give us all the solutions we need. For now, I promise that I will work tirelessly to do absolutely everything within my power to bring peace and justice to our communities. Video of Rep. Sewell is availablehere.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.jones.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/video-senator-jones-calls-for-action-on-additional-relief-for-alabamians-hurt-by-covid-19,VIDEO: Senator Jones Calls for Action on Additional Relief for Alabamians Hurt by COVID-19,2020-05-22,2020,2020-05,Democrat,House,AL,Doug Jones,J000300,www.jones.senate.gov,,,legacy,"BIRMINGHAMToday in alivestreamed video address, Senator Doug Jones (D-Ala.) called for action on additional relief for Americans impacted by COVID-19 and highlighted his efforts to push for legislation toincentivize health care manufacturingin Alabama and to help employers continue topay workers. He also urged Alabamians to continue to social distance and stay home whenever possible, to help ensure a safe transition to re-open the economy. There is an urgency [for more relief]. I've got to tell you, folks, that I have done at least one tele-townhall every week since we've been out and the stories I hear from folks are heart-breaking. They're scared, they're worried, there's a lot of anxiety out there right now still with this virus,Senator Jones said. [The House-passed bill is] not a perfect bill, but it's something we ought to be sitting down and talking about, finding common ground [about] what we can do, and I believe that we can do that. Senator Jones also called for additional relief for Alabama farmers, and criticized guidance released this week by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) that set arbitrary rules for relief that will hurt farmers and ranchers. On the Senator Jones said, The USDA program this week, the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program, will help farmers and ranchers but it is far short of what is needed. These farmers are at risk of losing their farms and never coming back generations of farmers I'm going to be sharing my concerns [with USDA] and hopefully getting some corrections to those inequities. Senator Jones took questions from Facebook Live viewers and frequently asked questions he has received in his weekly tele-townhalls with Alabama constituents. Full video of Senator Jones' livestream isavailable hereand may be used for broadcast. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.jones.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-doug-jones-introduces-paycheck-security-act-to-keep-workers-on-payrolls-during-covid-19,Senator Doug Jones Introduces “Paycheck Security Act” to Keep Workers on Payrolls During COVID-19,2020-05-21,2020,2020-05,Democrat,House,AL,Doug Jones,J000300,www.jones.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON U.S. Senator Doug Jones (D-Ala.) today introduced legislationwith several of his colleaguesto cover the wages and benefits of employees of affected businesses and non-profits until the economic and public health crisis is resolved. As Americans continue to struggle through the health and economic crisis we're facing, Congress needs to continue to provide relief to workers and small businesses the lifeblood of our economy. ThePaycheck Security Actwould direct economic relief to American workers who are suffering by helping employers maintain their payroll,Senator Jones said. Our legislation is exactly the type of big, bold approach that we need to take, given the scale of this crisis. If we can provide the resources that businesses need to tide them over until it is safe to re-open, we can keep more folks safe and help keep workers on the payroll and receiving vital benefits like health insurance. I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to include this in the next relief package, so that we can continue to help the people in Alabama and throughout our country who need it most. Since the COVID-19 pandemic began, more than 470,000 Alabama workers havefiledfor unemployment. Across the country, more than 20 million people lost their jobs in the month of April alone, the most in a single month on record. An estimated 27 million people have alreadylosttheir employer-provided health insurance coverage, and millions more could lose coverage before this crisis is over. The unemployment rate is likely close to 20 percent, and could exceed the depths of the Great Depression in the coming months. ThePaycheck Security Actwould avert mass layoffs, stem catastrophic unemployment levels and prevent irreversible business losses with a refundable tax credit big enough ($90,000 annually per employee) to rehire and pay laid off and furloughed workers and restore their health care benefits. It will also provide small and mid-sized businesses with the funds they need to pay for rent, mortgages, utilities and other operating costs until they can reopen safely and sales begin to recover. JoiningSenator Jonesin introducing this legislationtodayare Senators Mark Warner (D-Va.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) Full text of thelegislationcan be foundhere. BACKGROUND Senator Joneswas an early advocate for apayroll protectionpolicy that offered expedited relief for Alabamians and Americans across the country.During the negotiations for the CARES Act, he proposed the Small Business Lifeline fund to direct financial assistance to workers through payroll processing companies. Last month, Senator Jonesled an effort tourgeSenate leadership to include the Paycheck Security Proposal in the next COVID-19 relief package.And hehasalsocalledforthe Treasury Department and the Small Business Administration to allow payroll processing companies to disburse theCARES Actsmall businesses loans to reduce complications and expedite salaries to workers. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-releases-report-highlighting-dire-costs-census-undercount,Rep. Sewell Releases Report Highlighting Dire Costs of a Census Undercount for Alabamas 7th District,2020-05-20,2020,2020-05,Democrat,House,AL,Terri Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,,,legacy,"Birmingham, AL Today, Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) released a new report prepared by the staff of the Committee on Oversight and Reform and Subcommittee on Civil Rights and Civil Liberties urging residents to complete their 2020 Census forms now and detailing the dire costs of an undercount for Alabama's 7thCongressional District. This new report makes it clear: Ensuring that Alabama's 7thCongressional District is counted during the 2020 Census is critical to the future of our community, from funding for education to roads, housing and so much more,Sewell said.Of course, the coronavirus pandemic has added additional challenges to securing an accurate 2020 Census count, especially given the fact that many parts of our district have limited access to reliable, high-speed internet. However, the pandemic has also highlighted just how important each response is to our district. Every person who gets counted brings in $755 per person in federal funding for health care, and an undercount of just 1% would result in the loss of $5.2 million for our state,Sewell continued.To ensure that our community has the resources we need for the next decade, we must work together to make sure that every resident in Alabama's 7thCongressional District counts. Currently, Alabama's 7thCongressional has thelowest response ratein the state, at just 49.4%. The district was also the lowest counted in in the state after the 2010 Census, with a 60.3% response rate as compared to 62.5% statewide. Data collected by the census is used to determine how much funding the district receives for critical services like education, medical care, foster care, roads, public transit and job programs. Census data also helps local governments enhance public safety and prepare for emergencies. Alabama is also at risk of losing one of its seven congressional seats, muting the state's voice in Washington. Thenew reportdetails that if there is just a 1% undercount in the 2020 Census, the 7thDistrict stands to lose: $5.2 million in federal funding for Medicaid, the Children's Health Insurance Program and foster care assistance programs. $444,000 in federal funding for schools that have a high proportion of low-income students, or the equivalent of all the textbooks that 1,774 students would need in a school year. $269,000 in federal funding for job training centers and career counseling. According to Census Bureau estimates, the 2010 Census potentially failed to count up to 101,800 Alabama residents. If the state experiences a similar undercount in 2020, the state could lose up to $1.6 billion in federal funding over the next decade. Rep. Sewell urges households in the district to fill out their 2020 Census forms right away by going online athttps://2020census.gov, calling 844-330-2020, or filling out the forms they received in the mail.The 2020 Census has only 12 questions, does not ask about citizenship and is completely confidential. Clickhereto read the full report.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.jones.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-doug-jones-introduces-bill-to-bring-health-care-manufacturing-jobs-to-america-,Senator Doug Jones Introduces Bill to Bring Health Care Manufacturing Jobs to America,2020-05-19,2020,2020-05,Democrat,House,AL,Doug Jones,J000300,www.jones.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON U.S. Senator Doug Jones (D-Ala.), a member of both the Senate Health and Banking Committees, today introduced legislation to encourage businesses to build medical equipment in America. In recent weeks, Senator Jones hasadvocatedjumpstarting this new sector within Alabama's economy by incentivizing the reopening of idle factories and putting them to use producing critical health supplies. The coronavirus pandemic has caused millions of Americans to lose their jobs and has created a national health care crisis. It has also shined a spotlight on how dependent the United States is on other countries for the health care supplies that we need to fight this virus and to keep Americans safe,Senator Jones said.By incentivizing companies to build medical equipment here at home, we can bring countless jobs back, breathe life into shuttered factories, and ensure that our communities have the crucial COVID-19 tests, masks, ventilators, and other supplies they need to protect themselves from this disease. TheBuild Health Care Equipment in America Actwould do the following: Create tax deductions for businesses to repurpose existing facilities or to build new ones to manufacture medical supplies; Provide tax credits for employers who hire workers from declining fields; Increase education tax benefits for health care workers in short supply fields; Create grants to communities to improve broadband access around facilities to be used as health care manufacturing sites. In April, Senator Jones encouraged Alabama Governor Kay Ivey toestablish a health care manufacturing task forceto explore ways for Alabama to move to the forefront of health care manufacturing for the United States. A full summary of the bill can be foundhere. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-votes-favor-heroes-act-releases-new-details-benefits-alabama,"Rep. Sewell Votes in Favor of the Heroes Act, Releases New Details on Benefits for Alabamas 7th Congressional District",2020-05-15,2020,2020-05,Democrat,House,AL,Terri Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. Today, Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) voted in favor of the Heroes Act, House Democrats' latest legislation to address the continued COVID-19 public health crisis and provide support for struggling families and essential workers, with funds for testing and tracing measures, key support for frontline workers, and strengthened assistance for the American people.Sewell also released a detailed estimate of the direct benefits that the Heroes Act would provide to Alabama's 7th Congressional District. The coronavirus is not waiting, so Congress must continue to show leadership and act now to provide relief to our communities, workers and families to weather this crisis, Sewell said. Not only would this legislation provide Alabama counties and municipalities with much-needed resources, it would also honor the service that our frontline workers by providing them with well-deserved hazard pay, to give them the support they need and deserve to continue to keep our communities fed, safe and healthy during this pandemic. The bill also provides families with a second round of direct payments up to $6,000 per household and extends weekly $600 federal unemployment payments through next January, Sewell continued. These are critically important measures that will provide security and additional support for Alabamians impacted by this pandemic. The Heroes Act provides Alabama and local communities on the frontlines of this crisis with robust funding to cover coronavirus-related outlays and revenue loss and pay our health care workers, police, fire, transportation, EMS, teachers and other vital workers who keep us safe and are in danger of losing their jobs. An analysis prepared by the Congressional Research Service estimates that the Heroes Act will provide an estimated $1.6 billion in federal funding for the 7th Congressional District. A town-by-town breakdown of the estimated funding allocations for the 7th District under the Heroes Act is available here. The Heroes Act also includes a $90 billion fund to support state and local public education, including $1,469,335 for Alabama communities. This funding will help maintain or restore state and local fiscal support for elementary, secondary and public higher education and can be used to meet a wide range of urgent needs, including summer learning, afterschool programs, distance learning, and emergency financial aid for college students as well as coordination with public health departments to mitigate the spread of disease. In addition to resources for our state, local, tribal and territorial governments, the Heroes Act provides transformative, far-reaching support to protect the lives and livelihoods of the American people and the life of our democracy. Provides strong support for our heroesby establishinga $200 billion Heroes' fund to ensure that essential workers across the country receive hazard pay. Commits another $75 billionfor thetesting, tracing and treatmentwe need in order to have a science-based path to safely reopen our country and helping ensurethat every American can access free coronavirus treatment. Puts money in the pockets of workerswith a second round of direct payments to families up to $6,000 per household, new employee retention measures to keep 60 million workers connected with their jobs and extending weekly $600 federal unemployment payments through next January. Supports small businessesbystrengthening the Payroll Protection Program to ensure that it reaches underserved communities, nonprofits of all sizes and types and responds flexibly to small businesses by providing $10 billion for COVID-19 emergency grants through the Economic Injury Disaster Loan program. Ensuresfurther support for Alabamians and all Americans, including for: Health security withCOBRA subsidies and a special enrollment period in the ACA exchanges for those without insurance. Workplace security requiring OSHA to ensure that all workplaces develop science-based infection control plans and preventing employers from retaliating against workers who report problems. Housing security with $175 billion in new supports to assist renters and homeowners make monthly rent, mortgage and utility payments and other housing-related costs. Food security with a 15 percent increase to the maximum SNAP benefit and additional funding for nutrition programs that help families put food on the table. Protects the life of our democracywith new resources to ensure safe elections, an accurate Census, and preserve the Postal Service. Video of Sewell on the House floor today urging her colleagues to support the bill is available here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.jones.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-doug-jones-announces-23-alabama-students-for-appointments-to-united-states-military-academies,Senator Doug Jones Announces 23 Alabama Students for Appointments to United States Military Academies,2020-05-15,2020,2020-05,Democrat,House,AL,Doug Jones,J000300,www.jones.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON U.S. Senator Doug Jones (D-Ala.) today announced 23 Alabama students have earned an offer of appointment to a United States militaryserviceacademy, after having been nominated bySenator Jones last fall.To earn a nomination from Senator Jones, the students successfully completed an intensive application and interview process last fall, and subsequently earned appointments from their chosen military academy. Through their leadership, academic excellence and volunteer activities, this group ofoutstanding students hasshownanexceptional commitment to their schools and communities,said Senator Jones, a member of the Senate Armed Serviced Committee. I know each one will continue their outstanding accomplishments throughout theiracademycareers and in years beyond. It was an honor to nominate these students and I have fullconfidence they will represent their home state of Alabama and the United States extremely well. Applications for the class of 2025 will be open mid-June. For more information about the nomination process, please visit:https://www.jones.senate.gov/help/academy-nominations. A full list of Jones-nominated appointees is below with their biographies. NORTH ALABAMA Matthew McColl Huttula, of Huntsville,is a member of the National Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta, Latin Honor Society and the varsity soccer team and an active member of the Boy Scouts. Matthew is the son of Andrew and Ashley Huttula. Both his father and grandfather served in the Navy Dental Corps, inspiring him to do the same. Matthew is looking forward to attending theUnited States Naval Academyand developing the skills needed to be a successful Midshipman. Ellis Cade Hatfield, of Athens,is a member of the Athens High School Beta Club, the National Honors Society,and holds leadership positions in numerous organizations, including JROTC and Student Counsel Association. He is also member of his school's wrestling, track and soccer teams. Cade is the sonofEric and Emily Hatfield. He is looking forward to furthering his leadership and discipline at theUnited States Military Academyand is excited to go on to serve and protect his country. Madison Marie Rader, of Harvest,is a senior at Madison High School and is a member ofNational Honor Society, Key Club, Junior Civitan and the varsity soccer team. Madison is the daughter of Catherine and Jason Rader. She is looking forward to attending theUnited States Air Force Academyand going on to serve her country. Riley Curtis Worshek, of Huntsville,is a senior at Contemporary Education Academy and is a Scholastic All American. He is also an accomplished athleteswimming, playing football and competing in triathlons, Riley is looking forward to swimming for theUnited States Military AcademyBlack Knights. He is an active volunteer, swim coach, local and international mission team member, and serves on his church praise team. Riley is the son of Curt and Cari Worshek. His future plans include a military career in either Army Aviation or Infantry. CENTRAL ALABAMA Noah Harper, of Wilsonville,is a senior at Shelby County High School where he plays varsity tennis and basketball. He also is a member of National Honor Society, Beta Club, Peer Helpers, Key Club and Scholars Bowl. He is involved with community youth basketball programs, is an active volunteer with the Sheepdog Organization and enjoys playing the guitar. Noah is the son of Jacob and Leah Harper. His future plans include obtaining a degree in biochemistry at theUnited States Air ForceAcademyand pursuing a career in medicine while serving his country. Nicholas Messina, of Hoover,attends John Carroll Catholic High School where he serves as Senior Class Vice President, an active member of the National HonorSociety and Mu Alpha Theta, Vice President of Catholic Students Modeling Christ Club and has also served as a JCCHS Student Ambassador for two years.He is a captain of the JCCHS varsity soccer team, which he has played on for four years.Nicholas is the son of Frank Anthony Messina and Kimberly Ozeki Messina.He is looking forward to attending theUnited States NavalAcademyand serving in the Navy. William Reid Freeman, of Mountain Brook,is President of the Mountain Brook High School Spanish Club, Coding Club, and Mu Alpha Theta. He is an active member in his church, the NationalHonor Society and the MBHS Soccer Team. Reid is the son of Carolyn and John Freeman. He plans to earn a degree in electrical engineering at theUnited States Naval Academyand is excited to serve his country in the Navy upon graduation. Alexander Andreas Sabri, of Vestavia Hills,is a member of the Vestavia Hills High School Key Club, New Student Committee and Rise Committee, and plays on club soccer teams. His interest in pursuing a major in marine engineering and making a last impact on the country sparked his interest in attending a military academy. Alexander is the son of Sammy and Julie Sabri. He is looking forward to the next four years at theUnited StatesMerchant Marine Academyand wants to go on to proudly serve his country in United States Armed Forces. Shawn Garrett Goyal, of Birmingham,is a member of the National Honor Society,National Spanish Honors Society, Mu Alpha Theta, Boy Scouts and President of Altamont Outdoors Club. He also is a member of the Altamont High School Debate Team as well astennis andcross-countryteams. Shawn is the son of Dr. Rita Goyal. He is looking forward to pursing his interest in computer science and aerospace engineering at theUnited States Naval Academy, as well as continuing to develop the skills needed to successfully serve in the military upon graduation. Elliott James Gage, of Chelsea,is an active student at Chelsea High School where he serves as the Class President, Peer Helper President, wrestling team captain, member of Ambassadors, National Honor Society, and the Student Government Association.He also is on the Senior Leadership Team for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society SOY program.Elliott is the son of Jeffery and Julie Gage. He will be attending theUnited States Naval Academyand hopes to later attend medical school to serve his country as a doctor in the United States Navy. Jeffery Hunter Smyth, of Vestavia Hills,serves as the Vestavia Hills High School Student Government Association Senior Class President, is a member of the Youth Leadership Vestavia Hills and Help the Hill Student Teams, as well as an active member of Briarwood Presbyterian Church. Hunter also competes on the varsity lacrosse and cross-country track teams. Hunter is the son of John and Leigh Ann Smyth. He is excited to attend theUnited States Military Academythis fall and go on to proudly serve his nation. Maximillian Renfro, of Mountain Brook, is an enlisted soldier in the Alabama Army National Guard, a 2020 graduate of Marion Military Institute and a 2018 graduate of The Altamont School. At Marion, he served as Honor Council Chairman, captained the Ethics Bowl team and achieved the rank of cadet major. He is also the recipient of the 2019 MMI English Departmental Award, the 2018 Hailey Porter Shook Latin Cup and the 2017 Margret Mathew Gage Award in American History. Maximillian is the son of Nathanael and Ellen Renfro. He will study international affairs and grand strategy while attending theUnited States Military Academyand plans to serve as an officerin the United States Army Military Intelligence Corps upon graduation. Shane Alexander Mackey, of Vestavia Hills,hasswum competitively for seven years, most recently served as the captain of the Vestavia Hills High School Swim Team. Shane also is an accomplished pianist and has been an active member of the Speech and Debate and Math Teams. He regularly volunteers at the Lakeshore Foundation and is President of his high school's Habitat for Humanity Club. Shane is the son of Chet and Yong Mackey. He is looking forward to attending theUnited States Naval Academyand serving his country through a career in the Navy and eventually NASA. Madison Brooke Adamson, of Hoover,is the team captain for Hoover High School's girls' basketball program and also served as the Air Force JROTC captain. She will be the first black American female from Hoover to attend theAir Force Academy Prep School. Madison is the daughter of Ronny and Sandra Adamson. She is looking forward to attending theUnited States Airforce Academy Prep School,where she will play on the women's basketball team. WIREGRASS Anna-Grace Dumas, of Dothan,is an active member of the National Honor Society, Student Government Association and the Latin Club at HoustonAcademy. She was the drum major for her high school marching band and plays clarinet and saxophone in both the concert and jazz band. In her spare time, she enjoys reading and baking. Anna-Grace is the daughter of Anthony and Patricia Dumas. Her future plans include earning a degree in ocean engineering at theUnited States NavalAcademyand becoming a Surface Warfare Officer. Taylor Hayes Edwards, of Midland City,is a student athlete and musician at HoustonAcademy. He plays varsity tenniswinning back-to-back state championshipswhile also serving as lead trumpet and band captain in the school's marching, concert and jazz bands. He is active in the National Honor Society, the ARK Service Club, and competes on the school's Scholar's Bowl and Math Teams. Hayes is the son of William and Jennifer Edwards. His plans include obtaining a degree in aeronautical engineering at theUnited States Air ForceAcademy, which will help him achieve his goal of becoming a pilot in the United States Air Force. Joseph Caroll Barnes, of Demopolis,currently serves as the President of Student Council and captain of the varsity soccer team at Demopolis High School. As an Eagle Scout, he has also served as a section chief for the Order of the Arrow, Scouting's National Honor Society,and is involved at Trinity Episcopal Church in Demopolis. Joseph is the son of J.D. and Amanda Barnes. He plans to pursue a degree in international affairs while attending theUnited States Military Academyand is considering a career of service in the military or government. Bailee Lodusky Segars, of Dothan,is a college freshman at the University of Alabama Birmingham, where she is studying computer science, plays D-1 ultimate frisbee and is an active member of the UAB Associate of Computing Machinery chapter. In high school, Bailee was President of Northview High School's MCJROTC program and the varsity rifle captain. Bailee is the daughter of Paul and Patricia Segars. She will continue studying computer science at theUnited States Military Academyand her future plans include becoming a Cyber Security Officer. SOUTH ALABAMA Kaylee Grace LaPorte, of Mobile,is a graduate of James I. O'Neil High School and attended West Point Prep School. She was company commander for her school's JROTC program, President of Youth in Government, a member of the National Honor Society and the lead teaching assistant for the chemistry department. Her father graduated from the United States Military Academy in 1993 and her brother will graduate in 2020. Kaylee is the daughter of Grover and Scharla LaPorte. Her future plans are to major in chemical engineering, and possibly branch engineering, at theUnited States Military Academy. Eden Caroline Blackmon, of Mobile,is a member of the National Honor Society, Key Club, Pride Club, Football Game Day Volunteer and Secretary of the Green Club at McGill-Toolen Catholic High School. She serves on the Mobile County Youth Drug Education Council Advisory Board and volunteers with Mobile BayKeeper. Eden is active in St. Mary Catholic Parish and has served in many capacities, including Pre-School VBS Coordinator. Eden is the daughter of Samuel and Christy Blackmon. While attending theUnited States Merchant Marine Academy, she plans to study marine transportation. She credits growing up in The Port City as the impetus for wanting to become a Merchant Marine. Collin Laird, of Silverhill,has participated in a variety of organizations including National Honor Society, Rho Kappa Honors Society, FCA and was also captain of his school's footballandbasketball teams,andamember ofthetennis team. He also attended Marion Military Institute with a Falcon Scholarship from the United States Air Force Academy. Collin is the son of Russ and Marsha Laird. His future plans include becoming a fighter pilot and serving the country at any capacity he can. He is looking forward to the experiences and academic rigor of theUnited States Air Force Academy. Ollen McCrae Brown, of Fairhope,serves as President of the National Honor Society at Bayshore Christian School where he is also a Student Ambassador and student government leader. He is also active in varsity athleticscompeting on the soccer, baseball, cross-country and basketball teams. Ollen is the son of Jason and Adriel Brown. He plans to major in mechanical engineering at theUnited States Naval Academyandserve as a United States Marine. Buddy Joseph Arensberg, of Mobile,is a member of the National Honor Society, physics team and varsity football team at McGill-Toolen Catholic High School. He is also active in his community, serving as a student tutor and volunteering at St. Mary's Church. Buddy is the son of Patrick and Connie Arensberg. He plans to study engineering at theUnited States Merchant Marine Academyand upon graduation, proudly serve his country. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.jones.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-doug-jones-statement-on-sale-of-24-troy-built-mh-60r-helicopters,Senator Doug Jones Statement on Sale of 24 Troy-built MH-60R Helicopters,2020-05-14,2020,2020-05,Democrat,House,AL,Doug Jones,J000300,www.jones.senate.gov,,,legacy,"BIRMINGHAM U.S. Senator Doug Jones (D-Ala.), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today applauded the news that India will purchase 21 MH-60R Seahawkhelicopters, built in Troy, Alabama at the Lockheed-owned Sikorsky manufacturing facility. The U.S. Navy will also purchase three additional helicopters. The MH-60R is the world's most advanced maritime helicopter, equipped for multiple missions including anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare, special operations, surveillance, and search and rescue. Senator Jones issued the following statement on the sale: This is great news for Alabama and Sikorsky's Troy-based workforce, especially in light of today's historic unemployment levels. Since 2006, when Sikorsky made the decision to expand its operations in Alabama, MH-60R production has provided hundreds of jobs to our citizens. I applaud the approval of this sale, as it will protectover 200 jobs at the Troy facility, while providing improved capabilities to one of our partners. I am proud to have Lockheed Martin, which now owns Sikorsky, in Alabama, and I thank both the company's leadership and its talented workforce for their extraordinary commitment and dedication to both our national security and to our communities during this difficult time. Lockheed has continued hiring additional employees and apprentices to accelerate and continue their critical defense contracting work, by providing financial and operational support to vulnerable businesses in the supply chain, by providing personal protective equipment (PPE) and transport for COVID-19 responders, and by delivering meals to those suffering from hunger during this crisis. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.jones.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-doug-jones-lisa-murkowski-lead-bipartisan-call-for-increased-investment-in-education,"Senators Doug Jones, Lisa Murkowski Lead Bipartisan Call for Increased Investment in Education",2020-05-14,2020,2020-05,Democrat,House,AL,Doug Jones,J000300,www.jones.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTONSenatorsDoug Jones (D-Ala.)and Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) led a group of theircolleagues todayin urging Senate leadership to include robust funding for America's schools, educators, and students in the next round of COVID-19 relief funding. Prior to this pandemic, many Alabama schools were already struggling with a shortage of qualified teachers, and shrinking budgets will worsen this problem. Senator Jones has previously introducedlegislationto alleviate the shortage crisis. In a letter sent to Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, the senators wrote,We continue to see the challenges our states and school districts face on a daily basis and the impact this pandemic will have on education budgets over the next 18 months. Less than 1% of the CARES Act funding was specifically dedicated to supporting public schools. This is insufficient to stabilize education through this crisis. We are particularly concerned about how the educator workforce and other school personnel will be impacted by COVID-19. It is not just teachers who will be impacted by these shrinking education budgets. Countless cafeteria workers, school bus drivers, counselors, and other support staff are expected to take a dramatic hit during this pandemic. Our students cannot meet their full potential without the many professionals that make their schools work for them day in and day out,they continued. The CARES Act provided initial relief to students, schools, and educators through the Education Stabilization Fund, $13.2 billion of which is allocated to governors for distribution to K-12 schools. Education organizations are recommending a further investment of $175 billion for the Education Stabilization Fund to be divided between local education agencies and institutions of higher education. The letter was cosigned by Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Richard Durbin (D-Ill.), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Tom Carper (D-Del.), Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wisc.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Kamala Harris (D-Calif.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Jon Tester (D-Mont.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Bob Casey (D-Penn.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Angus King (I-Maine), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), and Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii). Text of the letter can be found below and a .pdf can be foundhere. Dear Majority Leader McConnell and Minority Leader Schumer: We write to urge you to include, in any upcoming legislation designed to provide additional relief to Americans during the COVID-19 pandemic, significant additional support for our nation's schools.While the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act included an Education Stabilization Fund to provide immediate support, we continue to see the challenges our states and school districts face on a daily basis and the impact this pandemic will have on education budgets over the next 18 months. Less than 1% of the CARES Act funding was specifically dedicated to supporting public schools. This is insufficient to stabilize education through this crisis. We are particularly concerned about how the educator workforce and other school personnel will be impacted by COVID-19. School districts rely almost entirely on state and local revenue. Low-wealth districts rely the most heavily on state aid and will be most impacted by the economic implications of this crisis. It is our duty to ensure that children receive the education they are rightfully entitled to. Students cannot learn if their schools are forced to downsize operations, eliminate teaching positions in critical subjects, or lay off other critical support staff such as social workers and counselors, due to depleted budgets. The U.S. economy is expected to contract by six percent in 2021,[1]changing the lives of all Americans in dramatic ways that are not yet fully known. One thing is certain however, students will still need to continue learning and progressing through school. Our nation's teachers are crucial to ensuring that learning can continue, yet current projections expect the reductions in education spending due to the pandemic to be two and a half times worse than the lowest point of the last recession.[2]It is not just teachers who will be impacted by these shrinking education budgets. Countless cafeteria workers, school bus drivers, counselors, and other support staff are expected to take a dramatic hit during this pandemic. Our students cannot meet their full potential without the many professionals that make their schools work for them day in and day out. As local communities and school districts see their revenue shrink, they will be forced to look at staffing cuts, as salaries and benefits comprise the majority of school budgets. As a result of this crisis, Learning Policy Institute estimates that if states experience a 20% decline in revenue, without federal intervention, about 460,000 educator positions will be eliminated.[3]Congress must invest now to stabilize the public education sector and fill the current gaps in our education workforce and prevent an even more dire shortage in the years to come. In addition to focusing on our educator workforce in any upcoming economic relief package, we urge you to continue to help schools to address learning loss facing our most disadvantaged students and ensure that all students with disabilities can continue to access the Free Appropriate Public Education to which they are entitled. We therefore urge you to provide substantial, flexible additional investments through Title I of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. Finally, if the next funding package includes infrastructure provisions, we urge you to explicitly include K-12 schools as eligible recipients for funds. Thank you for your consideration of this important matter. ### [1]https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2020-04-17/u-s-is-expected-to-lead-a-contraction-in-global-gdp-this-year [2]https://learningpolicyinstitute.org/blog/impact-covid-19-recession-teaching-positions [3]https://learningpolicyinstitute.org/blog/impact-covid-19-recession-teaching-positions",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z