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://polis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=364967,Representatives Polis and Vargas Fight for DACA Individuals Eager to Join Military,2013-12-20,2013,2013-12,Democrat,House,CO,Jared Polis,P000598,polis.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today, U.S. Representatives Jared Polis (CO-2) and Juan Vargas (CA-51)  were joined by fellow Members of Congress in urging the Department of Defense to issue a memo allowing Deferred Action Childhood Arrivals (DACA) to enlist in all branches of the United States military. Currently, individuals who qualify for DACA are ineligible for service. “By allowing DACA individuals to enlist, we not only ensure that all branches of our military remain fully staffed, but also give those who call the United States home an opportunity to defend their country,” said Congressman Vargas.  “For many Deferred Action individuals, joining the military would be a way for them to give back to a country that has offered them wonderful opportunities and a bright future.” With a shortage of eligible candidates enlisting, the military is facing severe recruiting issues, particularly in the reserves. DACA individuals, who have already undergone extensive background checks and finished high school or received a high school equivalent, make an ideal pool of vetted candidates.  “For many young people brought to the United States before adulthood, America is the only place they’ve known as home,” said Congressman Polis. “I hope the Department of Defense seizes this opportunity to enlist interested Deferred Action individuals in all branches of our military and allow them to help keep our nation, and their home, safe.” “DACA individuals have spent the majority of their lives in the United States, many with no memory or tie to their country of origin,” said Congressman Vargas.  “They view themselves as Americans, and as such, would be honored to serve their country and defend the land they call home.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://perlmutter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1007,Perlmutter Urges House to Restore Veterans' Cost of Living Adjustment,2013-12-19,2013,2013-12,Democrat,House,CO,Ed Perlmutter,P000593,perlmutter.house.gov,,,legacy,"Perlmutter Urges House to Restore Veterans' Cost of Living Adjustment f t # e Lakewood, CO, December 19, 2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Ed Perlmutter (CO-07) announced he is co-sponsoring legislation to repeal reductions to working age military retiree cost-of-living adjustments (COLAs) included in the Bipartisan Budget Act. The Military Retirement Restoration Act, by Rep. Dan Maffei (D- Syracuse) is fully paid for by closing tax loopholes for offshore corporations. Companion legislation is introduced in the Senate by U.S. Sen. Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA). Perlmutter said, ""The bipartisan Murray/Ryan budget proposal was less than perfect and not exactly what I preferred. However it's been several years since Congress agreed to a budget, and I felt this was a small step in the right direction toward a more responsible budget process rather than governing from crisis to crisis. Specifically, I'm not happy about Rep. Paul Ryan's idea to modify and reduce cost-of-living adjustments for working age veteran retirees (those under 62). That's why I am co-sponsoring the Military Retirement Restoration Act to replace the cuts to working age military retiree benefits included in the Bipartisan Budget Act by preventing companies from avoiding U.S. taxes by abusing overseas tax havens. We had to take a first step to get into the budgeting process, and now I hope we can fix this provision."" ### The Military Retirement Restoration Act will: Repeals the provision in the Bipartisan Budget Act (Section 403) that modifies the annual cost-of-living adjustment for working-age military retirees by making the adjustments equal to inflation minus one percent. This provision, which is scheduled to go into effect in December 2015, would result in a benefit cut for working-age military retirees. The Bipartisan Budget Act modifies the annual cost-of-living adjustment for working-age military retirees by making the adjustments equal to inflation minus one percent. At age 62, the retired pay would be adjusted as if the COLA had been the full CPI adjustment in all previous years, and the service members would receive the full COLA from then on. The provision would have saved approximately $6 billion over ten years. Prevents companies from avoiding paying their fair share of U.S. taxes. The repeal would be fully offset by stopping companies incorporated offshore but managed and controlled from the United States from claiming foreign status and avoiding U.S. taxes on their foreign income. It would require these companies to be treated as U.S. domestic corporations for tax purposes. This provision and is expected to raise over $6.6 billion over ten years. f t # e",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://polis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=364866,Polis’ Summit County Land Sale Bill Passes Senate Energy & Natural Resources Committee,2013-12-19,2013,2013-12,Democrat,House,CO,Jared Polis,P000598,polis.house.gov,,,legacy,"Representative Jared Polis (D-CO) today praised the passage of a bill he penned—H.R. 2337 the Lake Hill Administrative Site Affordable Housing Act—in the Senate Energy & Natural Resources Committee. The bill passed the U.S. House of Representatives by voice vote on October 29, 2013.  “I am pleased that the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee has advanced The Lake Hill Administrative Site Affordable Housing Act and I urge prompt passage in the full Senate,” said Rep. Polis. “This bill is the product of a community-driven effort to create additional affordable housing opportunities in Summit County while helping the U.S. Forest Service improve and maintain its facilities. This measure will contribute to community growth and economic prosperity.” H.R. 2337 conveys a 40-acre parcel in the White River National Forest known as the Lake Hill Site to Summit County, Colorado. Proceeds from the sale will support much needed U.S. Forest Service facility improvement and maintenance. The Lake Hill Site was selected for this sale because the property has lost its National Forest character. The parcel is isolated from other U.S. Forest Service land, sitting between I-70 to the north, Dillon Dam Road to the south, and condominiums to the west. The parcel was heavily logged and is home to unsightly infrastructure. As a result it is no longer suitable for wildlife habitat or recreation purposes. Fortunately, the Lake Hill parcel can serve a greater community purpose as a site for affordable housing. There is a critical need for additional affordable housing to meet the demands of the county’s workforce—a need that will only become more urgent with time. During the winter, approximately one third of the workforce has to commute into the county because local housing prices are too high for residents to live near where they work. The Lake Hill site is the perfect setting for affordable housing to allow those who work in Summit County to live in Summit County. The property is located in the heart of Summit County between the towns of Frisco and Dillon and near free public transit.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://polis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=364748,"Polis Lauds Interior Funding for CSU, Fort Collins Science Center",2013-12-18,2013,2013-12,Democrat,House,CO,Jared Polis,P000598,polis.house.gov,,,legacy,"Polis Lauds Interior Funding for CSU, Fort Collins Science Center Research Projects to Provide Land and Wildlife Managers with Tools to Adapt to Climate Change f t # e Washington, December 18, 2013 Representative Jared Polis (CO-02) welcomed Secretary of the Interior Sally Jewell’s announcement today that Interior has awarded nearly $7 million to universities and other partners nationwide for research to prepare our communities for the impacts of climate change, and congratulated Colorado State University and the Fort Collins Science Center for their well-deserved inclusion in this vital undertaking. “I am thrilled that the Department of the Interior has recognized Colorado State University and the Fort Collins Science Center as leaders on climate science research,” said Congressman Polis. “The work that these world class institutions will produce with this funding will help protect our quality of life."" The research projects funded through today’s announcement in Colorado’s Second District include: Developing a VisTrails Platform for Modeling Streamflow Hydrology and Projecting Climate Change Effects on Streamflow (Fort Collins Science Center) Surrogate Species for Wetland-Dependent Birds in the Prairie Pothole Region: Selection, Evaluation, and Management Application in the Face of Climate Change (Fort Collins Science Center; CSU’s Department of Fish, Wildlife and Conservation Biology) Capacity Building in the North Central Climate Science Center Domain (CSU’s Natural Resource Ecology Laboratory) Foundational Science Area Activities (CSU’s Natural Resource Ecology Laboratory)",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://polis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=364753,Polis Urges Swift Action to Improve Internet Access in Schools and Libraries,2013-12-18,2013,2013-12,Democrat,House,CO,Jared Polis,P000598,polis.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today, Congressman Jared Polis (D-CO), along with a bipartisan group of two dozen Representatives, called on the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to improve and modernize the federal E-Rate program, which provides critical discounts for schools and libraries on their telecommunications and Internet services. This important update will ensure every school has the ability to accelerate next-generation education reforms, support teachers, and enhance student learning.  “At a time in which technology is transforming so many aspects of our lives, too many schools do not have access to the connectivity they need to take advantage of the opportunities that digital learning presents,” said Rep. Polis. “It is time for the FCC to act to improve, modernize, and streamline the E-Rate program in order to bring high-speed broadband to every classroom and personalize learning for every student.” The improvements to E-Rate will enable students to take full advantage of digital learning, which education experts agree requires 100 Mbps or more of bandwidth for every 1,000 students and staff members today, increasing to 1 Gbps by 2017. Unfortunately, 40 million of America’s K-12 students do not currently have the Internet access and Wi-Fi they need to succeed in the global economy. In order to reach this goal, the group urged the FCC to focus E-rate on broadband connectivity and infrastructure, create an upgrade fund to support rural areas, increase transparency and accountability, and simplify and streamline the program so that high-speed broadband can be deployed to more schools and classrooms. “The district I represent in Upstate New York is largely rural, making increased access to broadband a priority of mine in Congress,” said Rep. Chris Gibson (R-NY). “I am pleased to be working with Representative Polis in a bipartisan manner to improve education through broadband expansion.  If our children are going to compete in the 21st century workforce, they must have access to 21st century resources.” “E-rate was critical to bringing basic internet connection to schools on the North Coast and in rural areas across the United States, but the program hasn’t kept pace with changing technology,” Congressman Jared Huffman (D-CA) said. “Modernizing the E-rate program will improve collaboration in the classroom, allow students and teachers to access cutting-edge educational tools and material from around the world, and help schools prepare students for tomorrow’s job market.”  “Advances in technology and the Internet have significantly transformed the way our students learn. The classroom experience is becoming increasingly dependent on digital and online learning tools – and as learning continues to evolve, it is more important than ever that we connect every school and library to high-speed broadband,” said Rep. Suzan DelBene (D-WA). “To ensure our students are prepared for a 21st century economy, we must do better than providing them with the technologies and Internet speeds of the past. It’s time to reform the E-rate program to meet the technology demands of the future.” Congressman Jared Polis is co-chair of the Congressional E-Learning Caucus and a member of the House Education and Workforce Committee. The full text of the letter is below. You can find a signed copy of the letter here. December 18, 2013  Federal Communications Commission 445 12th Street, SW Washington, DC 20554 Dear Chairman Wheeler, Commissioner Clyburn, Commissioner O’Rielly, Commissioner Rosenworcel, and Commissioner Pai: As Members of Congress concerned with improving our education system and preparing students for the jobs of the future, we are writing to urge swift action to improve and modernize the E-rate program in order to help connect our nation’s schools with high-speed broadband over the next five years. This critical update will ensure every school has the ability to accelerate next-generation education reforms, support teachers, and enhance student learning. We believe this is an important step we can take to provide our children with high-quality digital learning opportunities in order to improve student outcomes and prepare them to succeed in a 21st century economy. Improving our children’s ability to take advantage of learning technologies has always been a bipartisan endeavor, as has been the E-rate program itself. We are proud to support the bipartisan recommendations to update E-rate and we call for those across the education, government, and business communities to recognize the opportunity we have to improve and modernize our schools. Therefore, we ask the Commission for swift action to bring high-speed broadband to our students on an expedited basis. Closing the education gap means ensuring that our schools and libraries have access to digital learning opportunities that require high-speed broadband. However, too many of our children are currently trying to learn skills for tomorrow with outdated infrastructure from the past. While the E-rate program was enormously successful in bringing basic telephone and broadband to schools and classrooms, the connectivity provided is no longer sufficient. The average American school has about the same bandwidth as the average American home, but with 200 times as many users. Therefore, 72% of our schools do not have the Internet infrastructure they need to take advantage of digital learning opportunities today, and fewer than 1% have the infrastructure they will need in the future. In an age when high-speed broadband is transforming almost every aspect of our lives, we must extend digital opportunities to every classroom. This is particularly crucial in rural areas, where students are less likely to have the speeds and infrastructure they need to take advantage of new technologies and high-quality educational content. Forty million of our nation’s students—the next generation of talent in the United States—are being left behind without the speeds they need to succeed. As Commissioner Ajit Pai has noted, “Today, too many kids walk off the school bus, only to walk decades into the past. This is unacceptable. … Parents are right to expect that schools will help prepare their children for the America of tomorrow, and they know that can’t happen in the classroom of yesterday.” Experts agree that to enable students to take full advantage of digital learning, America’s schools should aim for 100 Mbps of bandwidth or more for every 1,000 students and staff members today, and 1 Gbps by 2017. In today’s global economy, these high speeds aren’t just an educational imperative, but a competitive necessity. Test results released this month show that American students still lag far behind countries like China, South Korea, Japan, Switzerland, and the Netherlands in math, reading, and science. It’s no longer enough just to compete for jobs; we have to compete for higher educational outcomes enabled by higher broadband speeds. This means we need to: (1) Focus E-rate on broadband connectivity and infrastructure to ensure that we maximize the impact of the program on learning by limiting support for yesterday’s outdated dial-up era technologies; (2) Create an upgrade fund within the E-rate program to connect every school and library, particularly those in rural areas, to high-speed broadband; (3) Increase transparency and accountability for the program in order to reduce costs, research effective practices, and ensure that all students have access to the connectivity they need; and (4) Simplify and streamline onerous paperwork requirements to improve program efficiency. These reforms will make possible strategic investments to deploy high-speed broadband to schools and classrooms across the country. We simply cannot prepare our kids to compete for 21st century jobs by leaving them stranded with age-old technologies. Therefore, we ask you to support swift action to modernize and expand the E-rate program to bring transformative learning opportunities to every school in America.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=78B75AAB-D969-2D78-1E31-AC4B37522C3C,Bennet Cosponsors Bipartisan Bill to Clarify Volunteer First Responders' Status in Health Care Bill,2013-12-18,2013,2013-12,Democrat,House,CO,Michael Bennet,B001267,www.bennet.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Proposal Designed to Allow Localities to Retain Volunteer First Responders Colorado is Home to More than 300 Volunteer Fire Departments Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet today cosponsored a bipartisan bill to clarify how volunteer firefighters and other first responders are defined in the new health care law in order to ensure they can continue protecting communities that rely on them. The Protect Volunteer Firefighters and Emergency Responders Act amends the Affordable Care Act to make it clear that volunteer emergency service workers are not required to be counted as full-time employees for purposes of healthcare coverage. Counting them as full-time employees would put a strain on cash-strapped volunteer fire departments to provide healthcare coverage for them, while most volunteer first responders do not expect to receive compensation or health coverage as a result of their volunteer public service. Coloradans know well how valuable our volunteer first responders are to our communities, especially in some rural areas where volunteers exclusively provide fire protection and emergency medical services, Bennet said. This bill is a commonsense fix and improvement to the health care law that ensures we don't unfairly penalize these brave men and women, who often receive little compensation for their services. Unless the provision for full-time employee is clarified, fire departments and other emergency response units that rely heavily on volunteers will be forced to eliminate emergency responders and/or reduce training and emergency response hours, since the cost of complying with the Employer Mandate in the health care law would be nearly impossible to cover. This bipartisan bill was introduced by Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV), Mark Warner (D-VA), Pat Toomey (R-PA), Angus King (I-ME), Susan Collins (R-ME), and Mark Begich (D-AK). It has been endorsed by the International Association of Fire Chiefs, National Volunteer Fire Council, and Congressional Fire Services Institute.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://perlmutter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1005,"Udall, Perlmutter Welcome Decision Easing Rocky Flats Workers' Ability to Access Benefits",2013-12-17,2013,2013-12,Democrat,House,CO,Ed Perlmutter,P000593,perlmutter.house.gov,,,legacy,"'Today's Decision Ensures These Heroes Will Be Able to More Easily Access the Care, Compensation They Deserve' U.S. Senator Mark Udall and Congressman Ed Perlmutter, strong supporters of Colorado's nuclear industry workers, heralded the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' approval of a federal board's recommendation to make it easier for affected Rocky Flats workers to qualify for federal assistance under the Energy Employees Occupational Illness and Compensation Program Act (EEOICPA). Udall and Perlmutter welcomed the recommendations made by the federal board in October and urged the Department of Health and Human Services to quickly approve it. Today's decision allows those who worked at Rocky Flats from 1952 to 1983 to qualify for benefits under a ""special exposure cohort status."" The new classification will alleviate some of the currently burdensome application processes and speed up access to compensation and treatment for health problems stemming from their service. ""Thousands of patriots at Rocky Flats helped our nation win the Cold War. Today's decision ensures that these heroes will be able to more easily access the care and compensation they deserve,"" Udall said. ""I am proud the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services quickly responded to our call and those of Colorado's Cold War patriots to act. This is a significant victory for Colorado's nuclear workers."" ""This is welcome news for all the workers who risked their lives to protect our nation and helped end the Cold War. For years, Rocky Flats workers fought for the healthcare and compensation they earned during their service working in dangerous conditions on behalf of our nation,"" Perlmutter said. ""I'm glad we've been able to work with the Obama Administration to make sure these workers and their beneficiaries receive the health care and benefits they earned for their unselfish sacrifice to our country."" Udall and Perlmuttersent a letter earlier this year to the Advisory Board on Radiation and Worker Healthurging it to give ""special exposure cohort status"" to Rocky Flats workers who were exposed to radioactive and toxic substances during their work at the Cold-War Era plutonium-pit production facility. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=416E3532-210B-E829-E9B4-AEB2F9FB80F3,"As Senate Moves Toward Passage of Budget, Bennet Urges Colleagues to Continue Bipartisan Work to Reduce Deficit",2013-12-17,2013,2013-12,Democrat,House,CO,Michael Bennet,B001267,www.bennet.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Agreement a Step Forward: Replaces a Portion of Harmful Sequestration Cuts for Two Years, Leaves Many Issues Unresolved Today's Procedural Vote Paves Way for Full Senate Vote Tomorrow Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet welcomed the Senate's support today for a bipartisan budget agreement that will replace a portion of the harmful across-the-board sequestration cuts for two years. Calling the agreement a step forward, Bennet also urged his colleagues to continue their work toward a long-term, comprehensive budget plan that puts the country on a path toward fiscal health. This is by no means a perfect agreement and leaves many issues unaddressed. It does, however, represent a step forward and a departure from Washington's bad habit of lurching from one manufactured crisis to the next and waiting until the eleventh hour to come up with solutions. Time and time again, people in town halls across Colorado have told me that they want a bipartisan budget that materially reduces the deficit and shows we're all in this together. I remain committed to working with anyone from either side of the aisle who wants to develop a thoughtful, comprehensive plan to tackle our debt.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=69984A33-FD96-03D2-3EFD-7F3A0D903F6D,"Bennet, Grassley Look to Advance Provision for Children with Medically Complex Conditions",2013-12-17,2013,2013-12,Democrat,House,CO,Michael Bennet,B001267,www.bennet.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Sen. Michael Bennet of Colorado and Chuck Grassley of Iowa said today they will look for ways to advance their provision to better coordinate care for children with complex medical conditions under Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP), leading to better care and health for these children. Kids in Colorado and around the country deserve doctors and hospitals that have every tool and resource they need to help them get better, Bennet said. We need to explore ways that we can ensure kids are getting the seamless care they deserve. We'll continue to work closely with the Senate Finance Committee to get this signed into law. Considering creative models to promote better outcomes for children with medically complex conditions is something we need to explore in the future, Grassley said. Working with the Finance Committee on a bipartisan basis and the Congressional Budget Office, I hope we can move these ideas forward. Bennet, Grassley, and seven other bipartisan members of the Finance Committee sponsored an amendment to the physician payments bill considered in committee last week that would establish under the Medicaid program and Children's Health Insurance Program an accountable care collaborative providing a network of services to children with medically complex conditions. The amendment, which was offered and withdrawn, establishes a Medicaid Children's Care Coordination Program for children with complex medical conditions that would provide services through nationally designated children's hospital networks. Medically Complex Children are defined as those who are included in Clinical Risk Groups (CRG) 5b-9. The CRG methodology is a well-documented and accepted manner of classifying pediatric patients and their diagnoses nationally and can be adopted for these purposes easily. Patients in these groups have significant lifelong chronic diseases, limiting the probability of churning in and out of the network, Bennet and Grassley said. Approximately three million children in the country suffer from medically complex conditions, and two million of these children are in Medicaid, accounting for 6 percent of children enrolled in Medicaid and 40 percent of Medicaid spending on children. Children with medically complex conditions are often need of specialized care that requires services provided by providers found in states outside of the family's state of residence. Medicaid's state-based structure creates impediments to seamless, integrated models of care that may be more appropriate for these children. Children's hospitals are seen as the anchors to the nationally designated hospital network. While anchor hospitals will provide services for network patients including physician, inpatient and outpatient care, the network will necessarily include other hospitals, physicians, and providers to ensure these children receive the needed services in the most appropriate setting possible. Key to these networks is assurance that there is an adequate network to support the specific pediatric population, Bennet and Grassley said. Through integrated care and risk-based reimbursement, improved patient outcomes and lower health care costs can be achieved, the senators said. Bennet and Grassley said they will look for legislative opportunities to advance this proposal in the coming months.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://perlmutter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1004,Perlmutter Thanks First Responders in Wake of Arapahoe High School,2013-12-14,2013,2013-12,Democrat,House,CO,Ed Perlmutter,P000593,perlmutter.house.gov,,,legacy,"Perlmutter Thanks First Responders in Wake of Arapahoe High School f t # e Lakewood, CO, December 14, 2013 Today US Rep. Ed Perlmutter released the following statement in response to the tragic shootings at Arapahoe High School and marking the one year anniversary of Sandy Hook: ""Today, I want to thank our first responders who acted swiftly to ensure the safety of our students and teachers yesterday after the shooting at Arapahoe High School. Our hearts and prayers are with all of the families and victims of the tragedy in Newtown, CT, as well as Arapahoe High School here in Colorado. In the wake of these senseless acts if violence, I know our resilience and the strength of our communities will unite us and guide us forward."" ### f t # e",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=9CB1038A-38B3-3747-5E47-D87BF6E5E20C,Bennet Statement on Arapahoe High School Shooting,2013-12-13,2013,2013-12,Democrat,House,CO,Michael Bennet,B001267,www.bennet.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet issued the following statement on the shootings this afternoon at Arapahoe High School: Our heartsare with all the students and families of the Arapahoe HighSchoolcommunity, as well as the brave first responders who helped secure student safety. No parent ever wants to look up at their TV screen in the middle of the day to see their children's school being evacuated because of a shooting. It's a gut-wrenching experience that no parent should have to endure. Unfortunately, it is also one that Coloradans are all too familiar with.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://perlmutter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1003,Perlmutter Supports Bipartisan Budget Agreement,2013-12-12,2013,2013-12,Democrat,House,CO,Ed Perlmutter,P000593,perlmutter.house.gov,,,legacy,"Perlmutter Supports Bipartisan Budget Agreement f t # e Washington, DC, December 12, 2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Ed Perlmutter voted to support a bipartisan budget agreement which allows our country to move forward and work on the important priorities of Americans. Perlmutter stated, ""This agreement is not all I hoped for, but it's a first step in breaking through the partisan brinkmanship to provide relief from the automatic, arbitrary budget cuts and ensures some much needed economic certainty for the next two years. This will help strengthen our economy, promote job creation and reduce our deficit. It also makes sure valuable community services and resources are available to those who need them most and our senior citizens continue to have access to their doctors. We can't stop here, we need to do more to stimulate our economic recovery. I'm hopeful we continue working in a bipartisan way to address important priorities like passing comprehensive immigration reform, tax reform and securing our energy independence."" The budget agreement passed 332 - 94. f t # e",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://polis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=364301,Polis and Massie Call for Transparency in US trade agreements,2013-12-12,2013,2013-12,Democrat,House,CO,Jared Polis,P000598,polis.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today, Representatives Jared Polis (D-CO) and Thomas Massie (R-KY) sent a letter to U.S. Trade Representative Michael Froman requesting for transparency, particularly with respect to the intellectual property rights chapters, as the final rounds of the Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement (TPP) are negotiated. The Congressmen also called for increase public engagement in the TPP negotiations with a range of diverse stakeholders to ensure that the final agreement maintains a balanced intellectual property system. ""We must ensure our trade policy is transparent and balanced,"" said Representative Polis. ""Ensuring a balanced IP chapter will promote a thriving digital economy that is in everyone's interest- from content creators, to users and intermediaries. As digital trade expands, Congress and the Administration must work together to get the policy right. If we properly design our digital-trade policy system, we can positively develop the global economy for decades to come."" Polis and Massie expressed concern that important stakeholders including civil society groups, businesses, and academics have not been able to participate meaningfully in the treaty process, which is resulting in an imbalanced intellectual property system. In particular, they note that the TPP Intellectual Property Rights chapter leaked in November 2013 would place undue restrictions on our copyright laws, harming our innovation, our economy, and an open and free Internet. For instance, the leaked treaty draft includes language that would seemingly make any permanent fix to unlocking cellphones illegal. To that end, Representatives Polis and Massie encourage the Administration to work with the negotiating parties to publicly release the current official text of the TPP intellectual property and related chapters—or at least summaries of these proposals—and invite public comments on such provisions before the agreement is concluded. Congressman Polis has also been an outspoken critic of the lack of transparency surrounding the intellectual property provisions contained in the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) and the impact these provisions have on a free and open Internet. Last September, he joined with Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR) and Representative Darrell Issa (R-CA) calling on the U.S. Trade Representative in a letter to publicly release ""detailed information"" about the intellectual property provisions, which are of particular importance to the public, currently being negotiated in the TPP. And this past August, he and Congressman Massie led a bipartisan letter to Representative Froman on the issue. The text of the letter follows. ### December 12, 2013 The Honorable Michael Froman United States Trade Representative 600 17th Street NW Washington, D.C. 20508 Dear Ambassador Froman, We write as supporters of trade and strong believers in a transparent and open government. As the final rounds of the Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement (TPP) agreement are negotiated, we urge you to heed the public calls for increased transparency in the negotiations, particularly with respect to the intellectual property rights chapters. We request that you increase public engagement in the TPP negotiations with a range of diverse stakeholders and ensure that the final agreement maintains a balanced intellectual property system. While we recognize the need to maintain a degree of confidentiality in negotiating our trade agreements, we remain disappointed that important stakeholders including civil society groups, businesses, and academics have not been able to meaningfully participate in the treaty process. The Industry Trade Advisory Committee on Intellectual Property (ITAC-15) has a limited membership, precluding a more diverse set of stakeholders from being able to review and provide input on the negotiating texts or regularly meet with United States Trade Representative (USTR) negotiators. In particular, we are concerned that the TPP Intellectual Property Rights chapter leaked in November 2013 would place undue restrictions on our copyright laws, harming our innovation, our economy, and an open and free Internet. These standards are troubling given their ability to potentially restrict the legislative branch, particularly when Congress has indicated it is beginning to evaluate the merits of revising these laws. For example, as sponsors of H.R. 1892, the Unlocking Technology Act, we are particularly troubled by draft proposals concerning prohibitions on the circumvention of technical protection measures or Digital Rights Management. The leaked treaty draft includes language that would seemingly make any permanent fix to unlocking cellphones illegal. Intellectual property is a dynamic policy area in which preserving Congress’ ability to adapt to the changing nature of technology is absolutely critical for the United States and our trading partners. To that end, we encourage the Administration to work with the negotiating parties to publicly release the current official text of the TPP intellectual property and related chapters—or  at least summaries of these proposals—and invite public comments on such provisions before the agreement is concluded. A strong precedent already exists for such a process; for instance, the Anti-Counterfeiting Trade Agreement official text was made public an entire year before the agreement was finalized. Additionally, in the future we urge you to develop a more open model of trade agreement negotiation. We remain optimistic about the job creation and economic growth prospects that increased trade with our TPP partners could provide to our country. As the last TPP rounds are negotiated, greater transparency and public participation will only increase public support for the agreement and bolster the final product’s legitimacy.  Sincerely,     ________________________                         _________________________ Jared Polis                                                            Thomas Massie Member of Congress                                           Member of Congress",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=0C0D1DB7-6A87-5AAA-AF0E-D2175C6FBCEE,SGR on Way to Extinction: Senate Finance Committee Passes Landmark Bill to Provide Certainty for Medicare Seniors and Physicians,2013-12-12,2013,2013-12,Democrat,House,CO,Michael Bennet,B001267,www.bennet.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Bill Repeals Doctors' Fix Permanently, Transitions to Streamlined Performance-Based Payment System Includes Bennet Amendment to Expand Access to Medicare Data, Improve Quality of Care Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet today joined his colleagues on the Senate Finance Committee to advance a bill that will provide long-term certainty for Medicare providers and patients. The bill repeals the formula, known as the sustainable growth rate or SGR, for how Medicare providers are reimbursed for services and replaces it with a streamlined payment system based on the quality of care. This bill is a huge step forward from the short-term fixes that have cost taxpayers billions of dollars and serve as nothing more than a temporary bandage, Bennet said. Colorado doctors are ready to move towards a more innovative payment system, but they need some stability and a pathway to get there. We're one step closer to getting this done permanently and in a commonsense way that will benefit doctors and seniors. Over the past decade, Medicare physician spending has exceeded the targets set by the SGR, resulting in the need for payment cuts under the formula. In order to avert these cuts and maintain services for Medicare patients, Congress has spent nearly $150 billion on short-term overrides during that time. The Improvements for Medicare Beneficiaries and Physicians Act transitions from the current volume-based payment system to one that rewards quality, efficiency, and innovation. Bennet's amendment Bennet secured a provision in the bill that will expand access to Medicare claims data to help evaluate doctor and hospital performance and find innovative, more effective, and less expensive ways to offer health care to beneficiaries. The Affordable Care Act already permits certain qualified entities access to this data to evaluate and report on the performance of health care providers, however only nine organizations across the United States, including one in Colorado, are currently qualified entities and are extremely limited in their use of Medicare data. Expanding access to the data and the allowable uses will help get a bigger picture of how providers stack up against each other in terms of cost, quality of care, and other factors. The House Ways and Means Committee passed its version of the bill today in a 39-0 vote.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20140221203233/http://www.markudall.senate.gov/?p=blog&id=3916,A Star on the Map for Browns Canyon,2013-12-11,2013,2013-12,Democrat,House,CO,Mark Udall,U000038,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Click here to receive these regular updates via email. Dear Fellow Coloradan, VIDEO: Unveiling the Bill After working for nearly two years to develop a collaborative, community-driven plan to create Browns Canyon National Monument, I was pleased to recently announce the introduction of my bill in Nathrop. Watch video. Browns Canyon National Monument and Wildness Area This proposal would protect some of our most-loved river rafting spots along the iconic Arkansas River between Salida and Buena Vista by designating the area as a national monument and the adjacent Browns Canyon as wilderness. The official designation would literally put the region on the map, drawing more visitors to its world-class outdoor recreation opportunities and supporting the local tourism economy. Working with Chaffee County Businesses During my most recent trip to the communities near Browns Canyon, I met with local small businesses in Buena Vista and Salida to hear how my Browns Canyon legislation will help their businesses to grow. You can see the photos from these visits on Flickr. Coloradans don’t have to look far to see how truly magnificent our state is. From the towering 14,000-foot peaks of the High Country to the grasslands of the Eastern Plains, I love calling Colorado home. Our diverse and stunning landscapes allow us to enjoy the outdoors year-round with plentiful hiking, skiing, hunting, fishing, kayaking and dozens of other activities to keep us moving. The public lands that form the foundation of our high quality of life also sustain thousands of jobs that boost our state’s economy. Colorado’s outdoor recreation economy contributes more than $13 billion annually to our state, supporting over 125,000 jobs and generating almost $1 billion in state and local tax revenues. That is why I can say with confidence that when we work hand-in-hand with communities to preserve public lands, we are supporting jobs, our economy and Colorado’s high quality of life. Our world-class natural amenities are one of our greatest economic engines, and preserving public lands helps keep jobs, entrepreneurs, and investment moving to and thriving in our state. I became engaged in the movement to recognize Browns Canyon because local residents and businesses asked me to. I worked side-by-side over the last 18 months with Chaffee County leaders, residents, businesses, and other stakeholders to hold several public meetings and conduct more than 50 face-to-face meetings. The resulting bill is emblematic of how public lands bills should be done: from the bottom up and based on what the community wants. My community-driven proposal designates 22,000 acres along the Arkansas River canyon and surrounding backcountry as the Browns Canyon National Monument, including 10,500 acres as Wilderness. This bill preserves visitor access and protects existing legal uses as they are now, so fishing, hunting, livestock grazing, commercial outfitting, mountain biking and motorized use will all continue as they have been. I’d also like to note that this will not be like a National Park Service monument. Instead, this monument will stay under the same management as it has now — the Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Forest Service and the Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area. I believe that we don’t inherit the land and water from our parents — we borrow it from our children. Having visited Browns Canyon and kayaked the Arkansas River many times, I know that Coloradans from all walks of life agree. That's why I am dedicated to leading the fight — with Coloradans by my side — to ensure that future generations of Coloradans can enjoy the Browns Canyon National Monument and experience this unique mix of exciting whitewater and wilderness backcountry. Click HERE to learn more about my proposal and to review the map of Browns Canyon National Monument. Warm regards,",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=553E6069-1CA9-A944-C4C1-E5A613FC7EE5,"Bennet, Udall Urge Senate Committees to Prioritize PILT Funding for Colorado Counties",2013-12-11,2013,2013-12,Democrat,House,CO,Michael Bennet,B001267,www.bennet.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Colorado U.S. Senators Michael Bennet and Mark Udall are urging the leadership of several Senate committees to ensure that they prioritize federal resources for the Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILT) program. These resources are critical to Colorado counties that use the funding to provide services, such as police, fire protection, emergency response and public education. In a letter to the chairs and ranking members of the Senate Appropriations, Budget, and Energy and Natural Resources Committees, the senators wrote, Dozens of counties in Colorado contain high percentages of federal public land and PILT resources often make up significant portions of their county budgets. These dollars help fund essential services for the citizens of these rural communities and create important family-wage jobs that stand to be lost in a still-recovering economy. Without consistent and predictable resources into the future, county budgets face drastic cuts, and even potential insolvency. The federal government needs to honor our commitment to our counties through this vital program, the senators added. Bennet and Udall have been strong advocates for fully funding the PILT program. Last year, the senators led the fight in support of PILT and the Secure Rural Schools funding, which was secured in the transportation bill signed into law last summer. PILT provides federal payments to local governments to help offset losses in property taxes due to nontaxable federal land within their boundaries. The formula used to calculate payments is based on population, receipt sharing payments, and the amount of federal land within an affected county. Read below for full text of the letter: December 10, 2013 Dear Senators: We write to request that your committees prioritize programmatic certainty and robust resources for the Payments in Lieu of Taxes (PILT) program. The PILT program provides critical funding to more than 1,900 counties in 49 states and territories, making up for diminished tax revenues stemming from Federal ownership of land within county boundaries. Dozens of counties in Colorado contain high percentages of federal public land and PILT resources often make up significant portions of their county budgets. These dollars help fund essential services for the citizens of these rural communities and create important family-wage jobs that stand to be lost in a still-recovering economy. Without consistent and predictable resources into the future, county budgets face drastic cuts, and even potential insolvency. The federal government needs to honor our commitment to our counties through this vital program. We urge you to prioritize certainty and robust funding for the PILT program into the future. Moving forward, I hope that we can work together to seek a long-term solution to the uncertainty that now faces PILT as its mandatory funding has expired. Thank you for your consideration of this important request.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=914CFD0F-4A83-759F-2E35-138996C8A496,"Bennet, Udall Urge Senate Committees to Prioritize PILT Funding for Colorado Counties",2013-12-11,2013,2013-12,Democrat,House,CO,Michael Bennet,B001267,www.bennet.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Colorado U.S. Senators Michael Bennet and Mark Udall are urging the leadership of several Senate committees to ensure that they prioritize federal resources for the Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILT) program. These resources are critical to Colorado counties that use the funding to provide services, such as police, fire protection, emergency response and public education. In a letter to the chairs and ranking members of the Senate Appropriations, Budget, and Energy and Natural Resources Committees, the senators wrote, Dozens of counties in Colorado contain high percentages of federal public land and PILT resources often make up significant portions of their county budgets. These dollars help fund essential services for the citizens of these rural communities and create important family-wage jobs that stand to be lost in a still-recovering economy. Without consistent and predictable resources into the future, county budgets face drastic cuts, and even potential insolvency. The federal government needs to honor our commitment to our counties through this vital program, the senators added. Bennet and Udall have been strong advocates for fully funding the PILT program. Last year, the senators led the fight in support of PILT and the Secure Rural Schools funding, which was secured in the transportation bill signed into law last summer. PILT provides federal payments to local governments to help offset losses in property taxes due to nontaxable federal land within their boundaries. The formula used to calculate payments is based on population, receipt sharing payments, and the amount of federal land within an affected county. Read below for full text of the letter: December 10, 2013 Dear Senators: We write to request that your committees prioritize programmatic certainty and robust resources for the Payments in Lieu of Taxes (PILT) program. The PILT program provides critical funding to more than 1,900 counties in 49 states and territories, making up for diminished tax revenues stemming from Federal ownership of land within county boundaries. Dozens of counties in Colorado contain high percentages of federal public land and PILT resources often make up significant portions of their county budgets. These dollars help fund essential services for the citizens of these rural communities and create important family-wage jobs that stand to be lost in a still-recovering economy. Without consistent and predictable resources into the future, county budgets face drastic cuts, and even potential insolvency. The federal government needs to honor our commitment to our counties through this vital program. We urge you to prioritize certainty and robust funding for the PILT program into the future. Moving forward, I hope that we can work together to seek a long-term solution to the uncertainty that now faces PILT as its mandatory funding has expired. Thank you for your consideration of this important request.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=DBCFA7C4-FE65-00FF-6FA1-99BC88DF6003,"Bennet Applauds Navy and USDA Announcement of ""Farm to Fleet""? Initiative",2013-12-11,2013,2013-12,Democrat,House,CO,Michael Bennet,B001267,www.bennet.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Senator Michael Bennet today applaudedthe Department ofAgriculture(USDA)andthe Navyon the announcement of theirjointFarm to Fleetprogram that will incorporate biofuel as a part of fuel used by the Navy.Today's announcement means that for the first time, biofuels will be available for regular purchase by the Department of Defense. This innovative collaboration willhelpensure we can domestically and cost effectively power our Navy, while at the same time creating a new customer base for Colorado farmers,Bennet said.This is an important step that will help strengthen our national security and diversify our energy portfolio. The Farm-to-Fleet initiativeemerged from a 2010 challengePresident Obamaissued tothe Secretaries of Agriculture, Energy,and the Navy to expedite the development of domestic, cost effective, biofuel substitutes for diesel and jet fuel. As the USDA works to reduce the costs of making biofuels, it is estimated thatthe price per gallon will drop toless than $4by 2016, comparable with traditional fuel. Bennet haslongadvocated fora balanced energy portfolio that includes biofuels, hydropower, and wind energy.He hassponsored legislation toreduce regulations for hydropower projects, championed the extension of the wind energy production tax credit,and secured a provision in theFarmBill toprovide low interest loans to families looking to install energy efficienciesor renewable energy systems.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=F2D1DC94-56BC-171B-3002-9A1472DD76CD,First Focus Campaign Honors Bennet for Children's Advocacy,2013-12-11,2013,2013-12,Democrat,House,CO,Michael Bennet,B001267,www.bennet.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Today,the First Focus Campaign for Children (FFCC) honoredColorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennetas a 2013 Defender of Children for hiswork to improve the health, educational outcomes, and well-being of children. First Focus Campaign for Children is a national bipartisan children's advocacy group that recognizes members ofCongress whowork to promotechildren's issues,both in policy and budgetary decisions. We have a responsibility to help build a better future for our kids and grandkids,Bennet said.It's an honor toreceivethis award from an organization that hasdone so muchto improve the lives of children nationwide. As a formerschoolsuperintendent,Bennet has been a strong advocate for children's issuesthroughouthis career.During his time in the Senate,he has workedtoincrease childhood cancer researchandexpand research,education, and intervention activitiesrelatedto preterm birth.His breakthrough therapies provision in last year's FDA Reform bill, which helps expedite the approval process for certain lifesaving treatments,is helping improve the lives of kids with Cystic Fibrosis on a daily basis. FFCC priorities for the 113th Congressinclude reducing poverty, improving education, addressing child housing needs, and preventing abuse and neglect.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=F9CFAAE1-2BE9-F53D-5DB3-196098376794,"Bennet Urges FAA to Prioritize Wildfire Monitoring, Suppression When Choosing UAS Testing Sites",2013-12-06,2013,2013-12,Democrat,House,CO,Michael Bennet,B001267,www.bennet.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet is urging the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to consider the benefits Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) technology can provide for wildfire monitoring and suppression when it chooses up to six new testing sites for these aircraft. The testing sites will help the FAA study how to best integrate UAS technology into our national airspace in a way that protects the privacy and safety of Americans. Congress passed legislation over a year ago directing the FAA to begin a process that incorporates UAS technology into the civil aviation system with six test sites around the country. The FAA has announced guidelines for its selection process with specific safeguards designed to ensure the privacy and safety of anyone living near a test site. Bennet is urging the FAA to locate at least two of the six sites in states that regularly experience wildfires. In a letter to FAA Administrator Michael P. Huerta, Bennet wrote, Unmanned aerial vehicles hold out the potential to help first responders map, measure, and combat fires in ways that will strengthen our firefighting capabilities. This technology can help first responders see through smoke, utilize infrared technology, and fly through areas too dangerous for traditional aircraft, allowing them to identify hotspots and predict directional changes in a fire more effectively. Bennet also pointed out that a major Colorado wildfire this year showcased the value of UAS technology. This past summer, for example, UAS technology was used to detect a dangerous remnant from the Black Forest fire in Colorado, which firefighters extinguished before it could reach a major gas pipeline, Bennet wrote in the letter. Bennet introduced an amendment with Senator Jeff Flake (R-AZ) earlier this year to create two additional test sites that would focus primarily on fighting wildfires. By focusing on wildfire monitoring, mitigation, and containment, the test sites would give emergency management and aviation officials a better idea of how UAS technology can be used to combat the devastating effects of wildfires. Bennet has been a strong advocate for wildfire mitigation efforts. In August, he introduced a bipartisan, deficit-neutral bill that would award competitive grants to states for priority wildfire mitigation and preparedness projects on federal, state, and private land. He was also successful in securing two key provisions in the Senate version of the 2013 Farm Bill that would improve forest health and reduce the risk of wildfires: his National Forest and Insect Disease Act, which would prioritize the treatment of national forest land that is suffering from insect epidemics, and his Permanent Stewardship Contracting Reauthorization Act, which would permanently reauthorize stewardship contracting, an important tool that allows the USFS to partner with private businesses and individuals to help thin trees and reduce fuel loads. Bennet also led membersof the Colorado delegationinsuccessfullyurging President Obamato designate the Black Forest and Royal Gorge Fires as major disasters. He was alsoinstrumentalin securingEmergency Watershed Protection fundsfor areas affected by last year's High Park and Waldo Canyon fires. Read below for the full text of the letter: December 6, 2013 Dear Administrator Huerta: As the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) continues to consider applications to host one of six Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) testing sites, I write to request that the FAA prioritize wildfire monitoring and suppression as a key criterion for site selection. In making this request, as the selection process moves forward, I also want to emphasize that the safety and constitutionally guaranteed privacy of our constituents is paramount. Our first responsibility is to ensure that test-site operations not violate the privacy or jeopardize the safety of any American. I urge you to continue to prioritize privacy and safety considerations as we cautiously integrate this promising new technology into our disaster response capabilities. 2013 was another historically destructive fire season for the United States. All told, 33,000 fires burned more than 5,300 square miles of U.S. land, destroying 960 homes and 30 commercial buildings. This year's destruction is also clearly part of a larger trend. The six worst fire seasons of the last fifty years have all occurred since 2000, and overall wildfire suppression costs throughout the country have quadrupled over the past 25 years, as wildfires grow more widespread and more severe. Unmanned aerial vehicles hold out the potential to help first responders map, measure, and combat fires in ways that will strengthen our firefighting capabilities. This technology can help first responders see through smoke, utilize infrared technology, and fly through areas too dangerous for traditional aircraft, allowing them to identify hotspots and predict directional changes in a fire more effectively. Unmanned vehicles already have a proven track record of success in combating wildfires. This past summer, for example, UAS technology was used to detect a dangerous remnant from the Black Forest fire in Colorado, which firefighters extinguished before it could reach a major gas pipeline. Most recently, officials deployed an unmanned military predator drone to help provide round-the-clock information to firefighters battling the Rim Fire in California. A GAO report released earlier this year, calling for improved planning to enhance federal fire aviation programs, cited the need for better information on the intended use of surveillance aircraft . . . to determine the specific types of aircraft that will meet federal needs for aerial surveillance during firefighting. It's clear that unmanned aircraft have an important role to play as the federal government works to prioritize and fund a broader aerial modernization strategy. Nearly two years ago, Congress passed legislation directing the FAA to select up to six UAS testing sites, in order to better integrate unmanned aircraft systems into our national airspace, and begin to leverage new military technologies to spur economic growth in our domestic aerospace industry. As this process moves forward, I urge the FAA to consider the benefits of deploying UAS technology to combat wildfires more effectively, and to ensure at least two of the six sites are located in states that regularly face these fires. I look forward to working with your agency on this issue. Thank you for your consideration of this important request.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://perlmutter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1001,"Perlmutter Supports Bipartisan Effort to Curb Patent Trolling, Stop Taxing Innovation Fees",2013-12-05,2013,2013-12,Democrat,House,CO,Ed Perlmutter,P000593,perlmutter.house.gov,,,legacy,"""Innovation is key to building the jobs of the future in Colorado and throughout the country."" Today, U.S. Rep. Ed Perlmutter (CO-07) voted with a bipartisan group of House members to pass HR 3309, the Innovation Act, to help protect small businesses' patents from frivolous lawsuits by patent trolls. Additionally, Perlmutter joined the House Caucus on Innovation and Entrepreneurship's letter opposing the diversion of US Patent and Trade Office (USPTO) patent filing fees under the across-the-board budget cuts known as ""sequestration."" The Innovation Act forces patent trolls to be more transparent and make sure they are accountable for their claims of patent infringement. A new Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is located in the Denver metro area. It is projected to have a nearly $400 million economic impact in Colorado and support more than 1,000 new jobs directly and indirectly. Unfortunately, due to deep across the board budget cuts known as sequestration, the new office is significantly delayed. Perlmutter and other members of the House sent a letter to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) asking them to stop sequestering patent filing fees that fund the USPTO because the USPTO uses no taxpayer money and is entirely funded by user fees paid by inventors applying for patents. Perlmutter said, ""Innovation is key to building the jobs of the future in Colorado and throughout the country. If we make it in America, we will make it in America. We must make sure our patent system is fully funded to help the innovators of tomorrow receive their patents today, and we must do everything we can to ensure new ideas and products are developed without unnecessary litigation and delay."" ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://polis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=363508,Polis-Chaffetz-Marino-Connolly Amendment to the Innovation Act Passes House,2013-12-05,2013,2013-12,Democrat,House,CO,Jared Polis,P000598,polis.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today, Representatives Jared Polis (D-CO) along with Jason Chaffetz (R-UT), Tom Marino (R-PA), and Gerry Connolly (D-VA) successfully passed their amendment to the H.R. 3309, the Innovation Act, to tackle the growing problem of patent trolls. Specifically the Polis amendment strengthens the demand letter transparency language already included in the Innovation Act by mandating that claimants seeking to bring willful infringement claims identify the ultimate parent entity in the demand letters they send to their targets. Increasingly, businesses of every size are finding themselves on the receiving end of patent infringement demand letters. These letters, which seemingly come out of nowhere, often make allegations that the use of everyday technology, such as wireless email, digital video streaming, and the interactive web, is in violation of a patent holders’ rights. While it is estimated that the Patent Assertion Entities (PAEs) behind these demand letter lose 92% of the merits judgments in courts, retailers, advertisers, marketers, and other often simply settle these nuisance claims rather than running the risk of complicated, expensive, and protracted discovery and litigation in federal court. According to the Congressional Research Service, PAEs generated $29 billion in direct costs from defendants and licensees in 2011, a 400% increase over $7 billion in 2005. Another study reported that 62% of all patent suits filed in 2012 were brought by PAEs. “My amendment will ensure that patent trolls can no longer hide behind shell companies to conceal their true identity from the demand letter recipient,” said Rep. Polis. “This language is a step in the right direction in providing businesses and entrepreneurs with the tools to better assess the validity of the demand letter and deter abusive demand letter practices in the first place.” Two weeks ago, Representatives Polis and Tom Marino (R-PA), along with Rep. Ted Deutch (D-FL) introduced a comprehensive bill to increase transparency and accountability in the demand letter process. The Demand Letter Transparency Act would assist small companies and end users who lack the money, time, and resources to fight demand letters they receive from PAE’s by putting additional information about the PAEs claims at their fingertips, enabling them to determine whether to ignore, settle with or defend against assertions made by a PAE. The bill would help erase the “asymmetry of information” problem, collect data, improve transparency, and promote information sharing among those who receive demand letters from non-legitimate companies who hide behind vague, overboard and threatening demand letters. “My amendment strikes the right balance in protecting the rights of legitimate patent holders to enforce their patents while protecting consumers and businesses against non-legitimate abusers of the patent system,” Polis concluded. “Businesses are increasingly coming under attack by entities abusing current patent law by sending vague, overbroad and threatening demand letters. As a result of this threat of litigation, consumers are forced to pay more and many companies are diverting significant dollars from R&D and other activities promoting job growth to simply cover their increasing legal fees.” The amendment was supported by a variety of businesses and organizations including  App Developers Alliance, American Hotel and Lodging Association, American Association of Advertising Agencies, American Bankers Association, Association of National Advertisers, Credit Union National Association, Direct Marketers Association, DISH Network, Electronic Frontier Foundation, Food Marketing Institute, Independent Community Bankers of America, International Franchise Association, Mobile Marketing Association, National Association of Convenience Stores, National Council of Chain Restaurants, National Grocers Association, National Restaurant Association, and National Retail Federation.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://polis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=363510,Polis Calls on Colorado Oil and Gas Association to Withdraw Lawsuits Against Fort Collins and Lafayette,2013-12-05,2013,2013-12,Democrat,House,CO,Jared Polis,P000598,polis.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today Representative Jared Polis (CO-02) called on the Colorado Oil and Gas Association to immediately withdraw its lawsuits against Fort Collins and Lafayette on their fracking moratoriums. ""Colorado Oil and Gas Association needs to focus on winning over hearts and minds, not suing us when they disagree with the legitimate outcome of elections,"" Rep. Polis stated. ""I call on Colorado Oil and Gas Association to withdraw their lawsuits and stop trying to overturn the recent elections in Lafayette and Fort Collins."" The majority of Fort Collins, Boulder, Lafayette, and Broomfield voters chose to pass measures to extend drilling moratoriums or fracking bans. And even those who voted against these measures generally agree it is community members, not COGA, who should determine how and whether oil and gas is developed in Fort Collins and Lafayette. ""Local governments have authority to regulate oil and gas land use activities because oil and gas operations are matters of local concern that impact home values and are an important issue for residents and neighborhoods,"" Polis concluded. ""If the oil and gas industry forces taxpayers to defend these lawsuits it will generate even more public sentiment against creating energy sector jobs and achieving energy independence."" Attached are links to videos of Congressman Polis speaking of his concerns on these lawsuits: Video 1:               http://youtu.be/PT3EnfqenXU Video 2:               http://youtu.be/puQ24uz06KI",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=B3C51D09-8333-31FD-6D1F-5C269067370B,"Bennet, Udall Welcome $62.8 Million from HUD for Flood Recovery Efforts",2013-12-05,2013,2013-12,Democrat,House,CO,Michael Bennet,B001267,www.bennet.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Following a tour of flood damage and the ongoing recovery efforts in Lyons today with Colorado U.S. Senators Michael Bennet and Mark Udall and Governor John Hickenlooper, Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Shaun Donovan announced that Colorado will receive $62.8 million from the Department's Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) program. The announcement follows a letter led by Bennet and Udall that the Colorado Congressional delegation sent to Secretary Donovan in September urging HUD to make such funds available for flood recovery efforts. The flexibility that comes with CDBG-DR funds make them extraordinarily useful for recovery efforts. This infusion of federal support from HUD will supplement assistance already provided by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Small Business Administration (SBA). Coloradans have made significant progress rebuilding and repairing in the aftermath of the floods this fall, but there's still a lot of work to be done, Bennet said. CDBG resources will help a wide range of recovery efforts, from individual home owners and businesses repairing damaged property, to cities and towns reconstructing roads, bridges and public spaces.This funding is critical for a number of small Colorado towns overwhelmed by this disaster to help finance rebuilding costs. This is another big step forward as Colorado builds back better than before. As communities across Colorado continue to recover from September's flood, these disaster recovery funds will ensure that victims do not fall through the cracks. I will keep fighting to ensure that these Community Development Block Grant funds are used wisely to supplement the assistance FEMA, the Small Business Administration and other agencies have provided to Coloradans, Udall said. These HUD funds are especially important for uninsured homeowners, many of whom did not live in a high-risk flood area but saw their homes destroyed nonetheless. The CDBG Disaster Recovery Program provides flexible grants to help rebuild communities affected by disasters, particularly in areas that may struggle to recover due to limited resources. CDBG funds can be used to aid recovery efforts involving housing, economic development, infrastructure and prevention of further damage to affected areas. Among other uses, the funding could potentially help supplement repair and replacement costs for the thousands of Colorado homeowners impacted by the floods. Bennetand Udall have worked closely with Governor Hickenlooper, state agencies, and the entire Congressional delegation since the flooding began to ensure that Coloradans have every resource needed to rebuild. In October, the senators helped lead a delegation-wide effort thatsuccessfully lifted the capon the amount of emergency transportation resources Colorado could access to rebuild damaged infrastructure. They also led the Colorado delegation inurging the President to quickly declare an emergencywhen flooding began to ensure that emergency funding was available for response and recovery efforts.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://polis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=363420,Polis Pushes for Renewable Energy Standard,2013-12-04,2013,2013-12,Democrat,House,CO,Jared Polis,P000598,polis.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today Representatives Jared Polis (CO-02), Ben Ray Luján (NM-03), and Ann McLane Kuster (NH-02) introduced the Renewable Electricity Standard Act of 2013, which would establish the first national renewable energy standard, requiring utilities to generate 25 percent of their electricity from renewable energy sources like wind, solar, and biomass by 2025. Over the next twelve years the bill gradually increases renewable energy production from 6 percent by 2014 to 25 percent by 2025. Municipal and publicly-owned power facilities and rural electric co-ops are exempt from the bill. Twenty nine states, including Colorado, New Mexico, and New Hampshire, already have renewable generation standards. By advancing the production of clean renewable energy sources in all states, the Renewable Electricity Standard Act would spur innovation, capital investments, and job growth across the country while enhancing energy security and reducing pollution. “This is common sense legislation that ensures the United States keeps up with the 138 other countries that already have renewable energy goals or requirements in place. In 2012, Colorado ranked 6th in the nation for wind power and as a result the state has benefitted from the heightened investment and innovation that comes with more renewable energy production,” said Rep. Polis. “With a national standard, every state in the nation would be able to reap the benefits of renewable energy, which stimulates jobs and economic growth while reducing carbon emissions and slowing global warming.” Studies indicate that a national renewable energy standard would: Create approximately 274,000-297,000 jobs; Save consumers almost $100 billion on their utility bills by 2030; Provide $13.5 billion to farmers, ranchers and other landowners in the form of lease payments; and Add $11.5 billion in new local tax revenues.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=075989B1-DCC4-8D9E-4576-DCB9D4D842DB,"Bennet Urges More Access to Medicare Data to Help Reduce Costs, Offer Better Care",2013-12-04,2013,2013-12,Democrat,House,CO,Michael Bennet,B001267,www.bennet.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet today urged the Senate Finance Committee to explore options to expand access to Medicare claims level data to help evaluate doctor and hospital performance and find innovative, more effective, and less expensive ways to offer health care to patients. The Affordable Care Act already permits certain qualified entities access to this data to evaluate and report on the performance of health care providers, however only nine organizations across the United States, including one in Colorado, are currently qualified entities and are extremely limited in their use of Medicare data. Expanding access to the data and the allowable uses will help get a bigger picture of how providers stack up against each other in terms of cost, quality of care, and other factors. Accessing and evaluating health care data is one of the major ways to lower health care costs, Bennet said. Doctors and hospitals can greatly benefit by learning where to make performance improvements, which can only benefit Coloradans. If the Medicare program spends time collecting data, we should ensure that this translates into a meaningful way to benefit patients and providers, and ultimately lower health care costs while improving quality. Full text of the Letter: December 3, 2013 Dear Chairman Baucus and Ranking Member Hatch, I would like to thank you for your work on the discussion draft of the SGR repeal, especially the section expanding the use of Medicare claims level data (data) under the Qualified Entity program. Although the current proposal is a step in the right direction, I believe that we can expand the use of data further in a secure and transparent manner. It is my hope that we can work together to find a way to expand both the number of qualified entities as well as the allowable uses of data. The Finance Committee should explore options that will increase the number of qualified entities. Currently, this number is inadequate to generate the intended public benefit of the statute. Because qualified entities generally cover a limited region, the low enrollment must be improved in order to generate a nationwide benefit. The Qualified Entity program should create avenues for sustainable business models, enabling entrepreneurs, consumer organizations, and businesses to use this data to drive down health care costs. By increasing the number of qualified entities, we can increase transparency and quality. The Finance Committee should also explore options to expand the allowable uses or users for the data beyond reports on provider and supplier performance. These expanded uses should be limited to providers and organizations that agree to use the data to improve the quality of care and are in compliance with all statutory and industry privacy standards. There are several significant benefits to this structure. First, comprehensive claims level data will be available to smaller and regional entities, including providers and hospitals. As a result, the analysis generated will be more reliable. The revenue generated from subscriptions could also encourage entrepreneurs and emerging companies to become qualified entities. This would have the effect of increasing enrollment into the program in the short and long term. Finally, because cleaning up raw claims data would take significant time and be resource intensive, this will increase the quality of data available for analysis. The revenue generated will help keep the qualified entities model sustainable, ensuring that the intended public benefits will also continue. The previous law regarding Qualified Entities sought to ensure that downstream businesses and insurers could have enough data points to develop accurate profiles of providers. For example, in one system, one provider may be viewed as low quality and high cost, while in another the same provider may be viewed as efficient and higher quality. With thoughtful modifications to the current program, I believe we could see this shared intent become reality. Thank you again for your commitment and work on this issue. I look forward to working with you to find a solution.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=D132BD24-BFE3-882B-178A-D5725126984B,Bennet Applauds Creation of USDA Energy Efficiency Loan Program,2013-12-04,2013,2013-12,Democrat,House,CO,Michael Bennet,B001267,www.bennet.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet today applauded the announcement by Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will take new steps to save consumers money on their energy bills in partnership with rural electric cooperatives. USDA will provide up to $250 million to rural electric cooperatives to lend to business and residential customers for energy efficiency improvements and renewable energy systems. The program builds on a provision Bennet helped advance in Congress and secure in the Senate-passed Farm Bill. The Rural Energy Savings Program(RESPA) Act, which Bennet also helped introduce last Congress, would allow the Rural Utilities Service (RUS) to authorize low interest loans for rural homeowners and small businesses to do energy efficiency retrofits. Colorado's rural communities are constantly looking for new and innovative ways to save money and use those savings to build their businesses and grow their local economies, Bennet said. This program will help families and small businesses reduce their energy use and save thousands of dollars in utility bills. It will also help create thousands of jobs in Colorado and across the country. Funding will be provided to rural electric cooperatives and utilities the majority of which already have energy efficiency programs in place who will then re-lend the money to help homeowners or businesses make energy efficiency improvements. In addition to energy audits, the loans may be used for upgrades to heating, lighting and insulation, and conversions to more efficient or renewable energy sources. The Rural Energy Savings Program Act was part of Bennet's strategy to promote energy efficiency in homes and businesses, which also includes the bipartisan SAVE Act and Better Buildings Act. Click here for more information on USDA's announcement.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=00E809D5-95A3-7F1D-AADA-269582C2D2CA,Bennet Talks Train Horns with Northern Colorado Officials,2013-12-02,2013,2013-12,Democrat,House,CO,Michael Bennet,B001267,www.bennet.senate.gov,,,legacy,"They rival the noise of jackhammers (~100 decibels), rock concerts (~110 decibels), and jet planes (~100 decibels). Train horns can reach noise levels of up to 110 decibels, and today Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet heard from local officials and small business owners from several northern Colorado communities about the effects they have on communities. Bennet, along with fellow Colorado U.S. Senator Mark Udall, is working at the federal level to help local communities curb train horn noise in order to create some peace and quiet and generate more economic activity, as local officials have reported the loud noise from train horns is a drawback for tourists and businesses. Current safety regulations require the sounding of a train horn for at least 15 seconds before entering railroad crossings, unless other safety measures like flashing lights and barricades have been installed. Municipal leaders from multiple communities have reported that the costs associated with the alternative safety upgrades can be prohibitive. Today's meeting comes on the heels of an announcement by the Federal Rail Administration (FRA) that it would reassess its regulations around train horns, responding to efforts from Senator Bennet, Senator Udall, and local communities. These railroads are the fabric of many of our communities in Colorado. We're not saying we don't want them in our communities; in fact, we believe we'll see more of them as our communities develop, Bennet said. But there needs to be some flexibility. This is a classic example of how a one-size-fits-all requirement is hurting communities on the local level. We want to find a way to balance the safety needs with the economic needs of these towns. We're not asking for anyone to forgo safety. Safety is our paramount concerns, John Vazquez, mayor of Windsor, said. We're just asking the FRA to take a commonsense approach to this issue and provide a little flexibility. This train horn issue makes it incumbent upon local government and local communities to fund these projects to create quiet zones, Cecil Gutierrez, mayor of Loveland, said. It's a challenge for communities like Loveland, beyond just the costs, because our city was developed over a hundred years ago. Some of the infrastructure changes that are necessary to create a quiet zone just aren't possible. We shouldn't be thinking of this as a one-size-fits-all approach, Karen Weitkunat, mayor of Fort Collins, said. We need to look at how these regulations affect local communities and take a commonsense approach to how they're implemented. Bennet's work on Train Horns: After hearing from cities across Colorado, including Fort Collins, Loveland, Longmont, Greeley, and Windsor, Bennet has worked with Senator Mark Udall to advocate for increased flexibility from the FRA to help communities establish quiet zones around railroad crossings. In January, Bennet and Udall wrote a letter to the Federal Rail Administration urging it to reopen the train horn rule for comment. They also introduced an amendment to a transportation bill in July that would require the FRA to work with Colorado communities to examine its train horn rules and consider revisions. Over the summer, the senators urged the Senate committee with jurisdiction over the FRA to review the train horn requirements. At their request, Senator Claire McCaskill (D-MO) asked FRA Administrator Joseph C. Szabo if the agency was willing to work with communities to provide flexibility around train horn regulations. Szabo indicated a willingness to work with Congress to ensure its train-noise and quiet-zone rules protect public safety while also work for Colorado communities.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=128E9C86-765B-4B0C-7840-4D1CD8A2871E,President Signs Bennet's Landmark Bill to Secure Drug Supply,2013-11-27,2013,2013-11,Democrat,House,CO,Michael Bennet,B001267,www.bennet.senate.gov,,,legacy,"President Barack Obama today signed into a law a bipartisan, bicameral bill co-authored by Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet to establish new safeguards for the drug distribution supply chain. The changes represent the most comprehensive efforts to secure the drug supply chain in 25 years. The Drug Quality and Security Act would track all prescription drugs from the time they are manufactured to the moment they are delivered to the drugstore and would improve the safety of compounded drugs. Bennet helped write the drug supply chain security provisions, which are based off a bill he introduced with Senator Richard Burr (R-NC) in May after working to find consensus over the last two years. Coloradans deserve and want to know that the prescriptions they receive at their pharmacies are safe and effective, Bennet said. This new law will help us know where those pills have been and who has handled them since the day they were manufactured. Whether it's a stronger drug supply chain or better oversight for compounded drugs, this commonsense bill will help restore confidence in our prescription drugs and protect our families from potential health risks. The lack of a strong, uniform system to secure the supply chain has allowed bad actors to exploit a number of vulnerabilities.Problems include drugs that are stolen, tainted, or diluted and sold back into the supply chain, counterfeit drugs, an inability to quickly recall tainted medicine, and drug shortages.All of these problems have led to serious health problems, deaths, and increased health care costs. Under the prescription drug security provisions of the bill, the FDA will know who has handled which drugs and when they handled them, preventing counterfeit or stolen pharmaceuticals from being sold back into the system and allowing the FDA to respond to recalls and shortages more quickly and efficiently. The Drug Quality and Security Act reflects a bicameral, bipartisan effort to address prescription drug safety and security issues. The bill also ensures that quality compounded drugs are available to patients who need them through better oversight of compounding pharmacies and outsourcing facilities. In addition to Senator Bennet, the bill was introduced by Senate HELP Committee Chairman Tom Harkin (D-IA), Ranking Member Lamar Alexander (R-TN), and Senators Al Franken (D-MN), Pat Roberts (R-KS), and Burr.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=15AA3508-AA81-D7AE-174C-25D9058E3822,Bennet Bill to Reduce Premature Births Becomes Law,2013-11-27,2013,2013-11,Democrat,House,CO,Michael Bennet,B001267,www.bennet.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet today applauded the President's signature on his bipartisan bill to reduce infant deaths and disabilities by expanding research, education, and intervention activities related to preterm birth. Bennet sponsored the PREEMIE Reauthorization Act with Senator Lamar Alexander (R-TN), the ranking member on the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee of which Bennet is a member. This new law will help doctors and medical researchers learn more about infant deaths and disabilities, and how to treat and prevent them, Bennet said. In an average week in Colorado, 138 infants are born preterm and are at much higher risks of medical conditions that can severely shorten their lives. This research will help give those kids the best possible start in life. The PREEMIE bill passed the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee by voice vote in February. The legislation reauthorizes the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) research and programs on preterm birth, including improving national data tracking on preterm birth, and conducting studies. The bill also reauthorizes programs at the Health Resources and Services Administration aimed at improving the treatment and outcome for infants born premature. A companion bill was introduced in the House by Representatives Anna G. Eshoo (D-Calif.) and Leonard Lance (R-N.J.). The bill is supported by the March of Dimes Foundation, the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, the Association of Women's Health, Obstetric and Neonatal Nurses, the Association of Maternal & Child Health Programs, and the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=22A4F666-5D33-195B-DFD2-B826039855D9,"Bennet, Udall Request Emergency Funding for Flood Recovery, Wildfire Mitigation",2013-11-26,2013,2013-11,Democrat,House,CO,Michael Bennet,B001267,www.bennet.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Colorado U.S. Senators Michael Bennet and Mark Udall today are urging Senate Appropriators to provide emergency funding to support Colorado's continuing recovery efforts in the aftermath of September's destructive floods. The senators also requested additional resources for wildfire mitigation that would help avoid greater fire suppression and recovery costs in the future. Bennet and Udall are requesting the resources from the Emergency Watershed Protection (EWP) program, which is designed to support efforts to restore eroded watersheds and damaged drinking water infrastructure. The senators are also pushing for targeted funding through the Hazardous Fuel Reduction accounts, in order to prevent catastrophic wildfires and save the federal government money in the long-term. Colorado's need for additional EWP fundinghas increased dramatically in the past two months, as Coloradans begin the task of recovering from this fall's historic flooding. As the state and a number of municipalities begin to rebuild and recover from this disaster, they also face an urgent need to stabilize riverbanks and re-channel waterways across a number of different streams that these floods significantly altered, Bennet and Udall wrote to the Senate Appropriations Committee. In addition, we also urge the Committee to free up additional resources for hazardous fuel reduction in order to reduce the frequency and severity of catastrophic wildfiresAdditional funding for hazardous fuel reduction in the Forest Service budget, and an increase in funding for FEMA predisaster mitigation, can help avert far greater costs in the future, and prevent the devastation that occurs from disasters like the Colorado Waldo Canyon, High Park or Black Forest Fires of 2012 and 2013, all of which destroyed hundreds of homes. Bennet and Udall have led efforts to secure emergency assistance from federal agencies following devastating natural disasters like September's floods and the wildfires that have ravaged the state over the past several years. They helped lead a delegation-wide effort thatsuccessfully lifted the capon the amount of emergency transportation resources Colorado could access to rebuild damaged infrastructure from the floods. The senators also led the Colorado delegation tourge the President to quickly declare an emergencywhen flooding began to ensure that emergency funding was available for response and recovery efforts. The senators also led Colorado's Congressional delegation insuccessfullyurging President Obamato designate the Black Forest and Royal Gorge Fires as major disaster areas and pushing the SBA to quickly approve a disaster declaration fortheWest Fork Fire Complex.They werealsoinstrumental insecuringEmergency Watershed Protection fundsfor areas affected by last year's High Park and Waldo Canyon fires. Read the full text of the letter below: November 26, 2013 Dear Chairwoman Mikulski and Ranking Member Shelby: We write to request urgently needed emergency funding for the state of Colorado in the coming appropriations process. First and foremost, we write to emphasize that in the wake of the destructive September flooding, Colorado's need for supplementary emergency watershed protection (EWP) program funding has once again sky-rocketed. Second, we write to urge the Committee to include additional funding for wildfire mitigation, in order to avoid far greater losses and costs in coming years. Colorado's need for additional EWP funding, administered through the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), has increased dramatically in the past two months, as Coloradans begin the task of recovering from this fall's historic flooding. As the state and a number of municipalities begin to rebuild and recover from this disaster, they also face an urgent need to stabilize riverbanks and re-channel waterways across a number of different streams that these floods significantly altered. Many of the projects are not eligible for reimbursement under public assistance provided by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Officials in Colorado have already identified projects in Larimer, Boulder, El Paso, Morgan, Logan, Adams, Weld and Sedgwick counties totaling at least $216 million that require EWP funding. Unfortunately, the program currently has under $25 million available nationally. With no regular appropriations mechanism for supplementing this funding stream, we ask that the Committee work with us to add or repurpose additional resources for the EWP program, so that flood recovery work in Colorado can proceed without unnecessary interruptions. In addition, we also urge the Committee to free up additional resources for hazardous fuel reduction in order to reduce the frequency and severity of catastrophic wildfires. As you know, wildfires across the Western United States are a growing crisis. The six worst wildfire seasons in the past fifty years all occurred since 2000. Since 1980, wildfires have caused over $28 billion in economic losses. By any measurement, those losses are accelerating dramatically as wildfire seasons become steadily worse. As a consequence of this trend, wildfire suppression costs have also escalated dramatically, quadrupling in the past 25 years. These suppression costs are crowding out funding for the mitigation and hazardous fuel reduction work that hundreds of thousands of forest acres desperately need. Studies consistently show that targeted hazardous fuel reduction and other forest health projects are some of the smartest investments the federal government can make, averting over $5 in future losses for every dollar invested now. Yet hazardous fuel reduction funding through both the Forest Service and the Department of Interior, and pre-disaster mitigation funding through FEMA, have been cut back significantly in recent years. Defunding hazardous fuel reduction programs is, inevitably, committing us to even higher fire suppression costs in future years. We therefore request that the Committee address this cycle. Additional funding for hazardous fuel reduction in the Forest Service budget, and an increase in funding for FEMA predisaster mitigation, can help avert far greater cost in the future, and prevent the devastation that occurs from disasters like the Colorado Waldo Canyon, High Park or Black Forest Fires of 2012 and 2013, all of which destroyed hundreds of homes. We recognize that the appropriations process for fiscal year 2014 is already well under way, and adding additional resources at this late stage could be a challenge. We nonetheless hope that the Committee will work to provide additional resources for both EWP and hazardous fuel reduction.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=5CCA529F-3436-FFD9-B9FE-01AC2CCF3342,Bennet Welcomes Repeal of Land-Acquisition Waiver for Expansion of Pinon Canyon Maneuver Site,2013-11-25,2013,2013-11,Democrat,House,CO,Michael Bennet,B001267,www.bennet.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet today welcomed the U.S. Department of Defense's announcement that it is withdrawing its land-acquisition waiver that would have to expand the Pinon Canyon Maneuver Site near Trinidad. Today's announcement ends years of uncertainty for ranchers and the communities in southeast Colorado, Bennet said. It alleviates residents' concerns that they will be displaced by expansion and while maintaining the Army's access to training missions on this unique terrain.The waiver's withdrawal is a major step in creating a strong and productive relationship between southern Colorado and the Army that is mutually beneficial to the region, its economy and our national security. Since coming to the Senate, Bennet has worked closely with members of the Colorado Congressional delegation to secure extensions of the moratorium on expansion of the Pinon Canyon Maneuver Site. In 2009, Bennet joined Senator Mark Udall and then-Representatives John Salazar and Betsy Markey to secure a ban on funding for any expansion of the site. In 2011, Bennet and Senator Mark Udall secured a letter from Army Secretary John McHugh providing assurances that the Army is not planning to expand and that expansion was not included in its five year plan. Bennet also worked with Senator Udall and Representatives Scott Tipton and Cory Gardner to advocate for a repeal of the land acquisition waiver.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=BFBEE652-F667-14B2-A489-0E67F75C3836,"Bennet, Udall Applaud Flood Recovery Funding to Restore Damaged Watersheds",2013-11-25,2013,2013-11,Democrat,House,CO,Michael Bennet,B001267,www.bennet.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Colorado U.S. Senators Michael Bennet and Mark Udall today welcomed the release of $11.7 million from the Natural Resources Conservation Service's (NRCS) Emergency Watershed Protection (EWP) program to help restore watersheds damaged by September's devastating floods. The funding will help cover 75 percent of the costs for 26 emergency projects, such as the stabilization of riverbanks and rechanneling of rivers and streams that were redirected following the historic floods that swept through Colorado's Front Range. With winter weather descending on Colorado, it is more important than ever to complete these watershed restoration projects so that the spring snowmelt doesn't cause further flood damage, Bennet said. These resources will help restore our watersheds and riverbanks and help protect nearby communities. Coloradans are banding together to quickly complete these projects, in many cases ahead of schedule, and this funding will support those efforts. We will continue to work closely with NRCS and other federal agencies to meet the needs of the many other recovery projects that remain. The September flood literally redrew the map in parts of Colorado, with some streams and rivers moving hundreds of feet from their original paths. During my travels to flood-damaged communities, I saw first-hand the extensive erosion and damage caused by this disaster, Udall said. These funds, which I have been proud to champion with the delegation, will help us restore Colorado's waterways, stabilize river and stream banks, and provide much needed protection for soil erosion and mudslides. Bennet and Udall led the Colorado Congressional delegation in requesting the NRCS, along with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to prioritize these projects. They specifically asked for the quick release of any available funds from the EWP program to finance this urgent work. Bennetand Udall have worked closely with the delegation since the flooding began to ensure that Coloradans have every resource needed to save lives and rebuild. They helped lead a delegation-wide effort thatsuccessfully lifted the capon the amount of emergency transportation resources Colorado could access to rebuild damaged infrastructure. The senators also led the Colorado delegation tourge the President to quickly declare an emergencywhen flooding began to ensure that emergency funding was available for response and recovery efforts. More recently, they voiced support for Governor Hickenlooper's request toadd additional counties to those eligible for individual and public assistance and to extend the application deadline for applying for support from FEMA.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=449A4EE8-7942-2C6B-7342-94B1AEBCB30C,First Small Hydro Project in Colorado Moves Forward Thanks to Regulatory Efficiency Act,2013-11-22,2013,2013-11,Democrat,House,CO,Michael Bennet,B001267,www.bennet.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Colorado U.S.Senator Michael Bennettoday announced thatthe Silverton-based San Juan County Historical Society's small hydro projectwould be allowed to move forward without undergoing the burdensome and expensive federal permitting process thanks to the Hydropower Regulator Efficiency Act. The bill, which Bennet cosponsored, cuts red tape for noncontroversial hydro projects that are less than 5 megawatts. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission officially announced last night that the project would not be subject to the federal permitting process, thanks to the bill, which passed Congress unanimously in August. As a result, the 11-kilowatt Silverton project will be the first small hydro project in the state, and one of the first in the nation to take advantage of this streamlined system. ""The Hydropower industry has tremendous potential to stimulate economic growth and job creation in Colorado,""Bennet said.""This common-sense bipartisan bill removesunnecessaryregulations to help small projects like this one get up and running in communities across the state. We should continue to look for ways to cutthrough red tape andpromote these types of clean, cost-effectiveenergy sources."" The Feds had previously said that our project needed to apply for a hydropower license, but requiring a federal license for a tiny, non-controversial hydro project on an existing pipeline didn't make sense,Beverly Rich, Chair of the San Juan County Historical Society, said.The Historical Society operates the Mayflower Mill site where the new hydropower project is being built. We're grateful to Senator Bennet for helping us cut through this red tape. In addition to Silverton, projects in Telluride and Orchard City are working to take advantage of this reform under the new law. The Hydropower Improvement Act was a companion bill to H.R. 267, the Hydropower Regulatory Efficiency Act of 2013, sponsored by Reps. Diana DeGette (D-CO) andCathy McMorris-Rogers (R-WA). Background Info on the Hydropower Regulatory Efficiency Act: Prior to the new law, the costly federal permitting requirements had been a barrier to entry for small hydropower developments. In many cases, the cost of federal permitting exceeded the cost of the hydro equipment. The Hydropower Regulatory Efficiency Act solves this problem by creating a regulatory off-ramp from permitting requirements for small, non-controversial hydro projects on existing conduits, such as pipelines and canals. It doesn't change any underlying federal or state environmental statute, it simply streamlines the federal approval process. The Colorado Small Hydro Association estimates that 100 MW of new hydro development in the state could mean 500 new jobs in various fields including developers, engineers, plumbers,carpenters, and others. For more details on the Silverton hydro project, feel free to call Beverly Rich, Chair of the San Juan County Historical Society, at 970-387-5488.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://polis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=362465,Polis Introduces Legislation to Address Crisis of Rising Student Loan Debt,2013-11-21,2013,2013-11,Democrat,House,CO,Jared Polis,P000598,polis.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today, Congressman Jared Polis (D-CO), along with Representatives Allyson Schwartz (D-PA) and Tim Bishop (D-NY), introduced legislation to tackle the rising student loan debt crisis by bringing fairness, common sense, and transparency to the student loan process. According to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), American families face an avalanche of more than $1 trillion in student loan debt, which amounts to approximately $24,000 in student loan debt for each of the 37 million student borrowers. The Know Before You Owe Act would help level the playing field by ensuring that student borrowers know about the financial advantages of lower cost federal loans before borrowing in the private market. According to the CFPB, 40 percent of students who have private student loan debt, had not exhausted all of their federal loan options, which come with interest rates as low as 3.4 percent compared to an average of 7.8 percent for private loans, before taking out more expensive private loans. “In today’s knowledge-based economy, a college degree is the best investment that a student can make for their future,” said Rep. Polis. “However with the rising costs of higher education, today’s students are being hamstrung by record debt levels, forcing them to delay other important investments in their futures, including saving for a secure retirement or purchasing a home. By empowering students with simple disclosure and coordination about the federal financial aid options before they turn to more expensive private loans, the Know Before You Owe Act will go a long way to help students make smart choices about the most affordable student loan opportunities available to them. Through simple coordination and disclosure, we can save student loan borrowers billions of dollars and make their education more affordable.” “This bill empowers students and families to make the most informed choices about how to afford college and invest in their future without taking on unnecessary debt,” Schwartz said. “Strengthening the transparency of student loan options can help make college more affordable and provide a safeguard against those who might try to deceive students and families facing difficult financial decisions.” “Students should not have to take on one more penny in debt than is absolutely necessary to attend college and pursue their dreams” said Bishop. “This critical legislation will ensure that students have the information they need to choose the higher education financing option that is best for them--not for the lender.” There are distinct differences between federal student loans and those offered on the private market. Federal student loans have lower interest rates and reasonable repayment terms, including deferment of repayment for hardships and forgiveness in exchange for public service, such as teaching in low-achieving schools. In addition to having higher interest rates, private loans lack protections offered by federal loans have large fees and do not include federal forgiveness, cancellation, or repayment programs. Two-thirds of private loan borrowers, including those who took out both private and federal loans, said that they did not understand the major differences between private and federal options. The Know Before You Owe Act would require private lenders to: certify with the borrower’s school that the student is enrolled and the amount the student is eligible to borrow before issuing a private loan; provide the borrower with quarterly updates on their loans, including accrued but unpaid interest and capitalized interest; report information to the CFPB about their student loans. The bill would also require institutions of higher education to inform students about: their federal financial aid availability and eligibility; their ability to select a private lender of their choice; the impact of a private loan on their eligibility for other forms of financial aid; their right to accept, reject, or cancel a private loan as allowed under current law; and the terms and conditions of federal and private student loans. The bill is supported by the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators, National Association for College Admission Counseling, National Council of La Raza, Council for Opportunity in Education, Young Invincibles, National Consumer Law Center, The Institute for College Access & Success, National Consumers League, American Federation of Teachers, The Education Trust, U.S. Public Interest Research Group, Consumer Action, Democrats for Education Reform,  American Podiatric Medical Students' Association, American Podiatric Medical Association, Association of American Medical Colleges, Demos, and Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education. “The financial aid community stands behind The Know Before You Owe Act, which takes the important step of requiring full institutional certification of all private student loans, just as is currently required on all federal student loans. Private student loans often lack important consumer safeguards like the income-based repayment options and guaranteed deferments of federal student loans. This bill will allow aid administrators to provide better counseling on debt management by giving schools a fuller picture of students’ financing options. The Act also excludes federal student loans from Health and Human Services from the definition of a ""private education loan,” providing a much-needed fix to a legislative provision that has caused confusion to student borrowers for years. NASFAA urges Congress to support this legislation."" – The National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators ""We support Know Before You Owe because this bill helps students understand the loans they are taking out. In a recent survey of high-debt borrowers, Young Invincibles found that two-thirds of respondents did not know the difference between private and federal loans. This is a major issue as federal loans have better repayment terms and borrower protections than private student loans. We applaud Rep. Polis for working to ensure that students take out public loans before they take on private student debt.” – Young Invincibles, a national organization representing the needs of young individuals aged 18 to 34. “We support the Know Before You Owe Act because it will help students make more informed decisions about borrowing for college. Students need to know if they’re eligible for federal loans before they turn to riskier private loans.” – The Institute for College Access and Success.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=A78FF309-A6F7-EFC8-07FB-3E405DF656FD,Bennet Warns Veterans of Marketing Scam,2013-11-21,2013,2013-11,Democrat,House,CO,Michael Bennet,B001267,www.bennet.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Colorado U.S.Senator Michael Bennet iswarningVeteransattempting to reach theVeterans BenefitsAdministration(VBA)about a marketing scam. A marketing company has purchased two toll-free numbers almost identical to the VBA toll-free numbersto trick Veterans who have mistakenly dialed the wrong number into providingcredit card numbers and other private information. Bennet's office learned of the scam from the VA earlier today. According to the VA, the marketing company tries tomisleadVeteransinto volunteeringtheir personal informationby offeringafreeWalmart gift cardin exchange.When asked if they are the Veterans Affairs office,the marketing companyrepliesvaguelyandexplains that the Veterans Affairs office is very busy.Theyrespond yes when asked if they can help with VA benefitsandthey may even offer to transfercallersafter requesting credit card information. The twoscamnumbersidentifiedby the VA are: 800-872-1000similar to the Veterans Benefits Administration's main number 800-827-1000 888-442-4511similar to the GI-Bill number 888-442-4551 Veterans are encouraged to use care when calling VA national lines and to be aware that the VBA office does not sell gift cards or ask for credit card information.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=BC8635B0-0C5C-626A-975D-DE3358830691,"Bennet Statement on Senate's Vote to End Obstruction, Reform Filibuster for Nominations",2013-11-21,2013,2013-11,Democrat,House,CO,Michael Bennet,B001267,www.bennet.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet today issued the following statement on the Senate's vote to require a simple majority, instead of 60 votes, to consider and confirm executive nominations and most judicial nominations. Nominees to the U.S. Supreme Court may still be subject to a 60-vote threshold. Bennet voted to reform the Senate rules. Washington continues to be the land of flickering lights. Time and time again it has failed to respond to the needs of Colorado families and businesses. Coloradans don't care about our party affiliation. They want Congress to work together and respond to the nation's needs much like we did this week when I worked with Republicans to pass a bipartisan bill to make our prescription drug supply chain more secure. Only through working together will we be able to create a 21st century energy strategy, implement a workable immigration system that secures the border and supports our economy, pass a Farm Bill that gives certainty to our farmers and ranchers, and support schools that will prepare our kids for success. Unfortunately, the abuse of the Senate's filibuster rule by a minority of senators has been part of the problem. This obstruction of so many nominees is essentially a partial shutdown of or government that hurts our small businesses, our economy, and our ability to remain competitive around the world. Bennet has been a long-time supporter of reforms to the Senate rules to help the Senate conduct its business more efficiently. In 2010,Bennet unveileda series of reforms including changes to the filibuster and secret holds. Bennet supported the Senate's bipartisan agreement in 2011 to end secret holds and to limit the use of the filibuster on motions to proceed.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://polis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=362395,Polis and Huffman Offer Amendment Dealing with Impact of Flooding on Oil and Gas Infrastructure,2013-11-20,2013,2013-11,Democrat,House,CO,Jared Polis,P000598,polis.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today, Representatives Jared Polis (D-CO) and Jared Huffman (D-CA) introduced an amendment to H.R. 1965, the Federal Lands Jobs and Energy Security Act, requiring the National Academy of Sciences to study and report to Congress on the environmental impact of flooding on oil and gas facilities. “My district in Colorado is all too familiar with the impact of devastating flooding on the nearby wells and pipelines. The September floods in Colorado not only caused extensive damage to homes and infrastructure, but also caused an unprecedented level of destruction to thousands of oil and gas facilities in northeastern Colorado,” said Rep. Jared Polis. “Flood can happen anywhere and it’s important to understand how we can minimize damage to oil and gas infrastructure.” In September, Coloradans experienced some of the worst flooding in the state’s history. In an instant, homes and businesses, roads and bridges were washed away. The September floods in Colorado not only caused extensive damage to infrastructure, but also caused an unprecedented level of destruction to thousands of oil and gas facilities in northeastern Colorado. As a result, over 43,000 gallons of oil and over 26,000 gallons of produced water spilled from tanks, wells, and pipelines into the floodwater. The Polis Amendment cosponsored by Representative Huffman would specifically require the National Academy of Sciences to study and report to Congress about the impact of flooding on oil and gas facilities and the resulting instances of leaking and spills from tanks, wells, and pipelines.  Previously, Rep. Polis joined Rep. Peter DeFazio (D-OR) in sending a letter on September 25th to House Resources Committee Chairman Doc Hastings requesting a hearing to fully understand the consequences resulting from the flood. To date, this hearing has yet to be scheduled. “The floods in Colorado shed a light on the need to better understand how we can prevent further spills and leaks as a result of floods in the future,” concluded Polis. Unfortunately the amendment failed on the floor by a vote of  201 to 221.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://polis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=362401,"Polis and Lee Push for an Equitable, Responsible Budget",2013-11-20,2013,2013-11,Democrat,House,CO,Jared Polis,P000598,polis.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today, Representatives Jared Polis (D-CO) and Barbara Lee (D-CA) sent a letter to the Chairmen of the House and Senate Budget Committees urging for parity between defense and non-defense cuts in any sequestration deal. The letter, signed by an additional 64 Members of Congress, urges the Budget Committee to repeal and replace the sequester, which is causing crushing cuts to non-defense programs, but states emphatically that any relief for defense discretionary spending programs must also provide “at least the same level of relief to non-defense discretionary spending programs.” “From 57,000 children being kicked out of Head Start, to cuts to the Meals on Wheels program that many seniors rely on every day, sequestration has disproportionally impacted low-income and middle class families in America,” stated Rep. Polis. “Just when we are ending our combat missions in Afghanistan and have ended the war in Iraq, we must not continue to favor defense spending over programs that benefit low-income and middle class families.” “At a time when we are recovering from the worst recession since the Great Depression, the across-the-board spending cuts known as sequester are pushing our nation over the cliff, especially our nation's most vulnerable,” stated Rep. Lee. “Seniors, veterans, the disabled, and families struggling with hunger can't be pushed aside, they must be protected. As we negotiate a budget, we must ensure that the vulnerable are protected and the Defense Department is included in any cuts.”  Sequestration has been particularly damaging for non-defense programs. Nearly 57,000 children have been kicked out of Head Start, many seniors can no longer rely on Meals on Wheels for their daily nutritious meals, and consumers are at risk given the FDA reducing its inspections of food manufacturing facilities by 2,100. “Due to some one-time measures, defense programs received more funding in Fiscal Year 2013 than originally planned under sequestration while non-defense programs were provided no such relief. It isn’t fair to the millions of Americans that rely on federal dollars for life-saving medical treatments; school-readiness programs; and job security, to bear the brunt of Congress’ inability to pass a comprehensive budget that provides for our national security while also improving the lives of Americans nationwide,” Polis concluded. The text of the letter, with a list of the signers, follows:                                                                November 19, 2013 The Honorable Paul Ryan                                                        The Honorable Patty Murray Chairman                                                                                Chairman Committee on the Budget                                                        Senate Budget Committee U.S. House of Representatives                                                United States Senate Washington, D.C. 20515                                                        Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Chairman Ryan and Chairman Murray: As the Budget Conference begins work towards a responsible budget process to fund the Federal Government, it is imperative that Congress address the disastrous effects of sequestration.   While we believe Congress must repeal and replace the sequester, any attempt to provide relief from the Fiscal Year 2014 sequester for defense discretionary programs should provide at least the same level of relief to non-defense discretionary spending programs. The Budget Control Act of 2011 (BCA) was clear that the $1.2 trillion in sequestration cuts between Fiscal Year 2013 and Fiscal Year 2021 would be guided by the core principle that they be divided equally between both defense and non-defense spending. The same must hold true for any attempt to undo or mitigate sequestration’s impact. Although Congress intended for both defense and non-defense programs to be treated equally under the BCA, that turned out not to be the case in the current fiscal year. In Fiscal Year 2013, due to some one-time measures, defense programs received more funding than originally slated for under the BCA. If sequestration remains in effect for Fiscal Year 2014, the BCA mandates that $109.3 billion be slashed from the federal budget, evenly split between defense programs and non-defense programs. As such, under current law, defense funding must decrease between Fiscal Year 2013 and Fiscal Year 2014. Sequestration has proven crushing for non-defense programs across the federal government. From nearly 57,000 children being kicked out of Head Start, to cuts to the Meals on Wheels program that many seniors rely on for a nutritious diet, to 2,100 fewer inspections by the Food and Drug Administration at food manufacturing facilities, Americans from all across the country are feeling the negative effects of sequestration. What’s more, the harmful sequester is disproportionally impacting low-income and middle class families,   leading to reductions in critical public services and creating a drag on the overall economy. The devastating impact of these cuts has been magnified by the recent government shutdown. We hope that Congress will recognize these harmful effects and replace all of the sequestration cuts with more sensible measures. However, in the absence of a comprehensive solution, any relief from the $109 billion in FY 2014 sequestration cuts must maintain parity between defense and non-defense programs. To provide further special treatment to the Pentagon would discount the needs of millions of Americans who rely on federal dollars for life-saving medical treatments; school-readiness programs; housing; research and innovation; job security; and food safety, among numerous other programs that have been automatically reduced. We thank you for your consideration and your attention to this request. Sincerely,    Jared Polis                                                  Barbara Lee  Member of Congress                                  Member of Congress  James P. McGovern                               Raúl Grijalva  Member of Congress                                  Member of Congress  Gwen Moore                                              Alan Grayson   Member of Congress                                  Member of Congress  Charles Rangel                                            Jerrold Nadler   Member of Congress                                  Member of Congress  Chellie Pingree                                            Frederica S. Wilson   Member of Congress                                  Member of Congress  Alan Lowenthal                                           Jared Huffman   Member of Congress                                  Member of Congress   Mike Quigley                                              Alcee L. Hastings  Member of Congress                                  Member of Congress  John Conyers                                             Mark Takano  Member of Congress                                 Member of Congress  John Lewis                                                 Ed Pastor        Member of Congress                                 Member of Congress  Hakeem S. Jeffries                                     Suzanne Bonamici  Member of Congress                                 Member of Congress   Henry “Hank” Johnson Jr.                          Eric Swalwell    Member of Congress                                 Member of Congress    Michael H. Michaud                                  Susan Davis      Member of Congress                                 Member of Congress  Maxine Waters                                          Al Green   Member of Congress                                 Member of Congress   Sheila Jackson Lee                                    Elijah E. Cummings     Member of Congress                                Member of Congress    Eddie Bernice Johnson                              David Scott      Member of Congress                                Member of Congress    Carolyn McCarthy                                    Mark Pocan      Member of Congress                                Member of Congress   Gloria Negrete McLeod                           Robin Kelly    Member of Congress                               Member of Congress   Lois Frankel                                            José E. Serrano  Member of Congress                               Member of Congress  William R. Keating                                   Mike Honda    Member of Congress                               Member of Congress   Nydia M. Velázquez                                Carolyn Maloney                                           Member of Congress                               Member of Congress                                    Mel Watt                                                 Lucille Roybal-Allard                                   Member of Congress                               Member of Congress                                   Donald Payne, Jr.                                    Paul Tonko                                                  Member of Congress                              Member of Congress                                    Yvette Clarke                                          Kurt Schrader  Member of Congress                              Member of Congress  Keith Ellison                                           Steve Cohen  Member of Congress                              Member of Congress  Tony Cárdenas                                       Louise Slaughter  Member of Congress                              Member of Congress  Jim Moran                                              Judy Chu  Member of Congress                              Member of Congress  Sam Farr                                                Marc Veasey            Member of Congress                              Member of Congress  Danny K. Davis                                      David Cicilline  Member of Congress                              Member of Congress  Gregory W. Meeks                                Peter Welch  Member of Congress                             Member of Congress  Donna M. Christensen                            Janice D. Schakowsky  Member of Congress                             Member of Congress  Earl Blumenauer                                    George Miller  Member of Congress                             Member of Congress  Marcia L. Fudge                                   John Garamendi  Member of Congress                            Member of Congress  Luis Gutierrez  Member of Congress",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=BB6D8A95-A216-C2E9-7E96-39A76D7A93E8,"Bennet: Hermosa Creek Represents Best of Colorado, Deserves Balanced Management Plan",2013-11-20,2013,2013-11,Democrat,House,CO,Michael Bennet,B001267,www.bennet.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet today testified before the Senate Subcommittee on Public Lands, Forests, and Mining in support of his bipartisan bill to protect more than 100,000 acres of the Hermosa Creek Watershed, an area in the San Juan National Forest north of Durango. The Hermosa Creek Watershed Protection Act would establish a management plan for the watershed based on recommendations from the Hermosa Creek River Protection Workgroup, which included local water officials, conservationists, sportsmen, mountain bikers, off-road-vehicle users, outfitters, property owners, grazing permit holders, and other interested citizens. Bennet introduced the bill in April with Senator Mark Udall (D-CO), while Representative Scott Tipton (R-CO) introduced a companion bill in the House of Representatives. Tipton also testified at today's hearing. Hermosa Creek represents some of the best Colorado has to offer. It deserves a management plan that balances all of the land's competing uses and gives the local community certainty into the future, Bennet said. This bill represents a community-driven process to cement a long-term plan for their community's future. Congressman Tipton and Senator Udall have been great partners, and we urge the committee to move this bill forward for the people of southwest Colorado. The bill would designate roughly 108,000 acres of San Juan National Forest land as theHermosa Creek Watershed Protection Area. Much of the land would remain open to all historic uses of the forest under the bill, including mountain biking, motorized recreation, and selective timber harvesting. Grazing will continue to be allowed in the entire watershed. In accordance with the consensus recommendations of the Hermosa Creek Workgroup, roughly 38,000 acres of the watershed would be set aside as wilderness, to be managed in accordance withThe Wilderness Act of 1964. No roads or mineral development are permitted in wilderness areas; while hunting, fishing, horseback riding and non-mechanized recreation are allowed. Supporters of the bill include the City of Durango, theLa Plata County Commission, the San Juan County Commission, the Wilderness Society, Trails 2000, Four Corners Back County Horsemen, Jo Grant Mining Company, Inc., and the Colorado Off Highway Vehicle Coalition, in addition to numerous business and sportsmen groups, among others. In 2011, Bennet penned anop-edin the Durango Herald, outlining his plans to seek feedback from interested Coloradans to build on the framework the workgroup set for the bill. The Durango Herald published an editorial in favor of the bill following its initial introduction in 2012. For more information on the bill and Hermosa Creek, visit Bennet's website athttps://www.bennet.senate.gov/hermosacreek/.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://perlmutter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=999,Perlmutter Highlights Importance of New Test Facility At NREL's National Wind Technology Center,2013-11-19,2013,2013-11,Democrat,House,CO,Ed Perlmutter,P000593,perlmutter.house.gov,,,legacy,"Perlmutter Highlights Importance of New Test Facility At NREL's National Wind Technology Center f t # e Washington, DC, November 19, 2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Ed Perlmutter (CO-07) congratulates the National Wind Technology Center at the National Renewable Energy Lab (NREL), on the grand opening of its new dynamometer test facility. This new facility will help engineers continue to more efficiently test the power systems of wind turbines. Perlmutter said, ""I am proud and in awe of the work being done by scientists and engineers at NREL as they continue setting the standard for excellence in renewable energy technology. This new test facility will help ensure new alternative energy resources are brought to market and help promote growth for small and medium sized businesses throughout our area. New products that increase our energy independence while providing clean and fuel efficient technologies are essential to changing the way we power our nation and lower costs for all Coloradans. "" ### f t # e",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://polis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=362245,"Polis, Marino, and Deutch Introduce Demand Letter Transparency Act to Tackle Growing Problem of Patent Trolls",2013-11-19,2013,2013-11,Democrat,House,CO,Jared Polis,P000598,polis.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today, Representatives Jared Polis (D-CO) and Tom Marino (R-PA), along with Rep. Ted Deutch (D-FL) introduced the Demand Letter Transparency Act to tackle the growing problem of patent trolls. Increasingly, businesses of every size are finding themselves on the receiving end of patent infringement demand letters. These letters, which seemingly come out of nowhere, often make allegations that the use of everyday technology, such as wireless email, digital video streaming, and the interactive web, is in violation of a patent holders’ rights. While it is estimated that the Patent Assertion Entities (PAEs) behind these demand letter lose 92% of the merits judgments in courts, retailers, advertisers, marketers, and other often simply settle these nuisance claims rather than running the risk of complicated, expensive, and protracted discovery and litigation in federal court. According to the Congressional Research Service, PAEs generated $29 billion in direct costs from defendants and licensees in 2011, a 400% increase over $7 billion in 2005. Another study reported that 62% of all patent suits filed in 2012 were brought by PAEs. “Businesses are increasingly coming under attack by entities abusing current patent law by sending vague, overbroad and threatening demand letters to businesses that are playing a vital role in our economy. As a result of this threat of litigation, consumers are forced to pay more and many companies are diverting significant dollars from R&D and other activities promoting job growth to simply cover their increasing legal fees,” said Rep. Jared Polis. “The Demand Letter Transparency Act strikes the right balance in protecting the rights of legitimate patent holders to enforce their patents while protecting consumers and businesses against non-legitimate abusers of the patent system.” “Chairman Goodlatte’s Innovation Act makes significant strides to dismantle the fraudulent business model that is otherwise known as “patent trolling. I believe it is imperative that we also take on the issue of demand letters, which is at the very root of the problem,” stated Rep. Marino. “Demand letters target family-owned businesses and entrepreneurs who are essential for creating jobs and generate revenue for the economy.  Small businesses in my district cannot afford the legal fees associated with litigation and they should not have to sacrifice valuable resources to defend themselves against such vague and unsubstantiated claims.   Shell companies and trial lawyers are running amuck, frauding the courts and businesses alike. It is time Congress address this hostile practice.” “Intimidating small businesses, entrepreneurs, and nonprofits with vague demand letters has become one of the most common ways that patent trolls take advantage of the lack of transparency in our patent system,” said Congressman Ted Deutch. “The targets of these demand letters are often left to decide whether or not to enter into expensive litigation without knowing any of the details regarding the patent in question, whose rights are being infringed, or how often similar demand letters are sent. I am pleased to join Reps. Polis and Marino to introduce a bipartisan bill that uses to transparency to solve a growing problem.” The Demand Letter Transparency Act aims to assist small companies and end users who lack the money, time, and resources to fight demand letters they receive from PAE’s by putting additional information about the PAEs claims at their fingertips enabling them to determine whether to ignore, settle with or defend against assertions made by a PAE. It would be a very necessary first line of defense before they are forced to spend valuable resources to hire a patent specialist. This bill will help erase the “asymmetry of information” problem, collect data, improve transparency, and promote information sharing among those who receive demand letters from non-legitimate companies who hide behind vague, overboard and threatening demand letters. Specifically, the bill would: Increase disclosure requirements of PAEs by requiring any entity, which is not an original inventor or University, that sends a specified amount of demand letters relating to a patent issued during any 365-day period, to submit to the Patent and Trademark Office (PTO) certain information relating to the patent (including patent being asserted, ultimate parent entity, the number of entities they sent a demand letter to, and information pertaining to litigation or PTO review relating to such patent) and to file an exemplary copy of such demand letter with the PTO. Further it provides courts with discretion to sanction an entity that brings an alleged patent infringement case and does not meet the demand letter disclosure requirements above. Create a demand letter database at the PTO, in consultation with the Attorney General and Federal Trade Commission, that would be a publically accessible and searchable. Increase demand letter requirements for any entity sending a demand letter to help a patentee identify the patents and claims. The demand letter shall include identification of each patent allegedly infringed, each claim of infringement, the accused instrumentality, as well as an explanation of each element of the claim within the accused instrumentality, how each element is infringed and a greater description of alleged direct infringement. The letter also must include identification of any case or post-grant administrative action relating to any of the patents, and further specificity relating to the ownership of any patent allegedly being infringed upon. The legislation also requires such entities sending a demand letter to include a statement that the recipient is not required to respond to the letter by law and provide information to recipients regarding accessing the demand letter database established under this legislation. Further it provides penalties for non-compliance. Codifies the FTC’s authority to enforce violations of the bill’s requirements under its existing authority.   Specifically, it defines entities that fail to contain proper standards in their demand letters or fail to submit their demand letters to the PTO as “unfair and deceptive act of practices.” The legislation is supported by a variety of businesses and organizations including Dish Network, Public Knowledge, the National Restaurant Association, Application Developers Alliance, the Electronic Frontier Foundation, the National Retail Federation, the Direct Marketing Association, the Mobile Marketing Association, and the Association of American Advertising Agencies. ""DISH applauds Rep. Polis and Rep. Marino for introducing the Demand Letter Transparency Act.  The bipartisan legislation, if passed, will help spur innovation, and address the growing problem of patent trolls,"" said Jeffrey Blum, Senior Vice-President and Deputy General Counsel.  “Patent trolls have placed a restrictive and unnecessary burden on the restaurant and small business community as they look to build towards the future. This continued assault on innovation is draining billions of dollars from our economy and inhibiting job creation. The Demand Letter Transparency Act will help millions of restaurateurs nationwide fight these frivolous claims, and clear the pathway for enhancing their customer experience,” said Scott DeFife, Executive Vice President of Policy and Government Affairs, National Restaurant Association “The Demand Letter Transparency Act is an important bill that will bring the most abusive actors to account. It will protect innovators, small businesses, and end users who face dangerous patent troll threats. The bill provides a much-needed response to opportunistic patent trolls blanketing the nation with deceptive letters,"" said Julie Samuels, Senior Staff Attorney for Electronic Frontier Foundation. A section by section of the bill follows. ###   SECTION BY SECTION- POLIS/MARINO DEMAND LETTER TRANPARENCY ACT Today, too many start-ups and end user businesses, such as restaurants, retailers, and grocery stores, are facing threatening demand letters from Patent Assertion Entities (PAE’s) – who typically do not make or sell anything, but use patents to threaten litigation. Many small companies lack the legal expertise and resources to respond to complex patent infringement claims, and thus, end up devoting significant resources they could be spending on R &D and other business and job growth opportunities, to cover their legal fees. This diversion of resources is harming American innovation, businesses, and consumers, and stifling our economy. According to a recent study, one third of those responding start-ups had received patent assertions; of those 60% came from entities whose primary business is asserting and litigating patents. The study further found that the cost to startups to defend such patent demands regularly exceeds $100,000, and can ultimately end up reaching millions of dollars in litigation costs. While other proposals seek to curb abusive patent litigation, this bill will assist the smallest companies who face demand letter challenges (which are not legal complaints) before litigation even commences. This legislation will provide these companies a very necessary first line of defense before they are forced to spend valuable resources to hire a patent specialist. This legislation aims to assist small companies and end users who lack the money, time, and resources to fight demand letters they receive from PAE’s by putting additional information about the PAEs claims at their fingertips enabling them to determine whether to ignore, settle with or defend against assertions made by a PAE. This bill will help erase the asymmetry of information problem, collect data, improve transparency, and promote information sharing among those who receive demand letters from non-legitimate companies who hide behind vague, overboard and threatening demand letters. Section 2: Demand Letter Disclosure These provisions will ensure improved transparency and accountability in demand letters to the PTO, providing greater certainty to businesses and better reporting of the problem. Demand letter disclosure related to patent ownership: Requires any entity, that does not meet certain exemptions provided for in the bill and is sending a specified amount of demand letters relating to a patent issued during any 365-day period, to submit to the Patent and Trademark Office (PTO) certain information relating to the patent (including patent being asserted, ultimate parent entity, the number of entities they sent a demand letter to, and information pertaining to litigation or PTO review relating to such patent). Exemplary copy of demand letter: requires these entities to also file an exemplary copy of such demand letter with the PTO. Any company-specific information included in these demand letters relating to the recipient will be confidentially protected by the PTO. Non-Compliance Remedies: a.       Monetary sanctions: provides courts with discretion to sanction an entity that brings an alleged patent infringement case and does not meet the demand letter disclosure requirements above. The court is required to consider good faith mistakes in failing to comply with these demand letter disclosure requirements when determining such sanctions. Demand letter database: Mandates the establishment by the PTO, in consultation with the Attorney General and Federal Trade Commission, of a publically accessible and searchable database that includes such demand letters. The PTO is responsible for maintaining and updating the database. Any recipient of a demand letter can request the redaction of the company name, company-specific information, or any other company information from the database. The database will not only assist with information sharing among demand letter receivers, but also provide additional pre-complaint data to relevant agencies and academics to further understand the scope of the problem. Current statistics are only available for patent infringement litigation in federal courts. Section 3: Demand Letter Requirements Specific demand letter requirements: provides for increased requirements for any entity sending a demand letter to help a patentee identify the patents and claims. The demand letter shall include identification of each patent allegedly infringed, each claim of infringement, the accused instrumentality, as well as an explanation of each element of the claim within the accused instrumentality, how each element is infringed and a greater description of alleged direct infringement. The letter also must include identification of any case or post-grant administrative action relating to any of the patents, and further specificity relating to the ownership of any patent allegedly being infringed upon. The legislation also requires such entities sending a demand letter to provide information to recipients regarding accessing the demand letter database established under this legislation. Section 4: Remedies for Non-Compliance Demand Letter Disclosure Non-compliance: allows a third party recipient of a demand letter who believes the sending entity has not met the disclosure requirements in Section 2, to file a petition with the PTO describing why the requirements that have not been met. Demand Letter Database Non-compliance: allows a third party recipient of a demand letter who believes the sending entity has not met the demand letter requirements in Section 3, to file a petition with the PTO describing why the requirements that have not been met. PTO Enforcement: permits the PTO to provide notice that the patent will be voided unless a fee is paid if an entity is found to have failed to comply with the demand letter disclosure requirements or demand letter database requirements within this legislation.    Section 5 FTC Enforcement: defines entities that fail to contain proper standards in their demand letters or fail to submit their demand letters to the PTO as “unfair and deceptive act of practices.” Codifies the FTC’s authority to enforce violations of the bill’s requirements under its existing authority.  Section 6 Definitions: clarifies certain definitions under the bill. Section 7 Effective Date: provides a date certain upon which this legislation will go into effect.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=159C16F7-DE70-0E1C-9F18-8CE3CB62E136,"Bipartisan Amendment to Consolidate Federal IT Infrastructure, Save Taxpayer Dollars Filed to Defense Authorization Bill",2013-11-19,2013,2013-11,Democrat,House,CO,Michael Bennet,B001267,www.bennet.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet today led a bipartisan group of senators in introducing an amendment to help reduce waste and government inefficiency by consolidating the total number of federal data centers and making those data centers more efficient. The amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act was introduced with Senators Tom Coburn (R-OK), Tom Carper (D-DE), and Kelly Ayotte (R-NH). Because federal agencies have been slow to act on consolidation initiatives, the bill sets hard deadlines and requires agencies to conduct inventories and implement consolidation strategies. Numerous studies have shown a relatively low utilization rate of the current infrastructure, resulting in an enormous amount of wasted space and energy and incurring unnecessary costs. This is a common sense way we can help reduce unnecessary waste in the federal government, save energy, and take a chunk out of our deficit, Bennet said. OMB set an ambitious goal, and it's time that we hold agencies accountable to help save taxpayers up to $3 billion. The amendment was introduced as a standalone bill last month and was promptly passed by the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee(HSGAC)the following week with unanimous bipartisan support by a voice vote. In 2010, the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) instructed federal agenciesto develop consolidation plans under the administration's Federal Data Center Consolidation Initiative (FDCCI), which could save up to $3 billion by 2015,according to the Government Accountability Office (GAO), with additional savings beyond that date. However, GAO also found that a number of agencies have been slow to implement these plans or, in some cases, to even inventory the total number of data centers they currently manage. Under the FDCCI, the federal government set a goal of shutting down at least 1,200 of the thousands of data centers it owns and operates. This bill would require participating federal agencies to submit complete data center inventories and a consolidation strategy, which must include a timeline for implementation and cost-savings estimates. The legislation includes hard deadlines, and participating agencies must also submit annual updates on their progress for the next five years. In addition, the law would require the GAO to verify agency data center inventories, and woulddirect OMB to routinely report to Congress on cost savings realized to date. The GAO has publicly endorsed thelegislation, saying it is necessary to ensure that agencies close down unnecessary data centers by the target deadline. The senators have worked closely with OMB and GAO to ensure that this legislation will help strengthen the initiative and achieve meaningful savings. The bill is also supported by theProfessional Services Counciland theInformation Technology Industry Council. Senators Bennet and Coburnoriginally filed this legislation as an amendmentto theEnergy Savings and Industrial Competitiveness Act of 2013 (S.1392).",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=67C0D521-4AB9-E617-214D-5910215C725A,Deadlines for Coloradans with Flood Claims Approaching,2013-11-19,2013,2013-11,Democrat,House,CO,Michael Bennet,B001267,www.bennet.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet is reminding Coloradans of approaching deadlines to apply for flood relief. Yesterday, FEMA announced that the deadline to apply for Individual Assistance and Small Business Administration loans has been extended to December 1. The deadline to file flood claims with the National Flood Insurance Program has also been extended. The deadline is now 81 days from the date of the damage, instead of 60. The deadline to apply for Public Assistance and Transitional Sheltering Assistance is November 30. We encourage any Coloradans who have property damage due to the flood to assess their losses and file a claim,Bennet said.Theseextensionswill help Coloradans access all of the resources they are eligible to receive to recover and rebuild. Additional information on deadlines is below. For more information go tofloodsmart.gov. Requests for Individual Assistance The deadline for individuals affected by this disaster to apply for individual assistance with FEMA is now December 2. FEMA urges eligible individuals to register immediately, if they haven't yet, by phone at 800-621-3362 (or TTY 800-462-7585) or apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov. U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)Loans forindividuals, private nonprofits, and businesses of all sizesworking to repair physical damageand replace personal property: The deadline for filing an application for a low-interest disaster loan is nowDecember 2nd. FEMA is urging Colorado individuals and businesses to fill out their loan packets and return them to the SBA, evenifthey don't think theycan afford orwanta loan;Applicants are under no obligation to accept an SBA loan and there is no cost to apply. However, completing and returning the SBA application may open the door to other forms of assistance such as additional FEMA grants.Individualsand businesses should keep all disaster funding options open,but they will be ineligible for SBA loans if they miss this deadline. For information about SBA programs, applicants can go tosba.gov/disasteror call (800) 659-2955 (TTY 1-800-977-8339). (Note that the application deadline for Economic Injury Disaster loans for small businesses and most private nonprofits without physical damage is June 16, 2014). Transitional Sheltering Assistance(TSA) For people staying in hotels (FEMA pays 75%, State pays 25% -- directly to hotels): DeadlineisNovember 30 checkout date December 1. Eligibility for TSA is decided on a case-by-case basis; if your home becomes accessible and/or livable, if you have already received rental assistance, or if rental units become available, for instance, you may no longer be eligible for TSA. Requests for Public Assistance Applicants for Public Assistance must notify FEMA and the State of Colorado about projects that may qualify for assistance(FEMA pays a minimum of 75%). The deadline has been extended to November 30 for all designated counties Adams, Arapahoe, Boulder, Clear Creek, Crowley, Denver, El Paso, Fremont, Gilpin, Jefferson, Lake, Larimer, Lincoln, Logan, Morgan, Sedgwick, Washington and Weld. Most requestsfor public assistance are filled out at Applicant Briefings.If applicants haven't filed a request yet, they should send the form toRPA_colorado@state.us. For more information, contact Kathy Workman at 720-557-0161 orKathy.workman@state.co.us. Registration:Register with FEMA by phone,800-621-3362,from 5 a.m. to 8 p.m., MT, seven days a week.Multilingual phone operators are available on the FEMA helpline. Choose Option 2 for Spanish and Option 3 for other languages. People who have a speech disability or are deaf or hard of hearing may call (TTY)800-462-7585; users of711or Video Relay Service can call800-621-3362. Register online:DisasterAssistance.gov. Register by Web-enabled device, tablet or smartphone: typem.fema.govin the browser.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=CD4A2385-E3CE-D95B-8682-FE5ED53325AC,"Following Interior Department's Delayed Disbursement of Millions in 2013 Mineral Leasing Revenues, Bennet Urges Senate Passage of Return our State Shares Act",2013-11-19,2013,2013-11,Democrat,House,CO,Michael Bennet,B001267,www.bennet.senate.gov,,,legacy,"The Interior Department announced today that it ultimately disbursed over $14 billion in FY 2013 revenues from mineral leasing on public lands and waters to state, local and tribal governments including $130 million to Colorado. Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet called on the Senate to pass a bipartisan bill to ensure that all royalty payments are paid on time in the future. The Return Our State Shares (ROSS) Act would require the Interior Department to make its regularly scheduled royalty payments to states instead of withholding them as part of the sequestration and then returning them in a lump sum at the end of the fiscal year. Colorado counties depend on these resources to operate essential government services and we're glad they are receiving record amounts of revenue this year. However, our states and communities should receive their full payments on time. They should not wrongfully be subjected to sequestration, Bennet said. The mineral leasing revenues are distributed to states and local communities to support local governments and schools and to provide other critical community services. However, as part of the automatic budget cuts commonly referred to as sequestration, the Interior Department and Office of Management and Budget (OMB) have withheld portions of these revenues until the end of the fiscal year despite the fact that the funds are owed to states under law and are not taxpayer dollars pulled from the Treasury. These delays resulted in uncertainty for county governments and other recipients. The ROSS Act would ensure these payments are not subject to sequestration and would continue to be made in a timely manner. Senator Bennet introduced the ROSS Act earlier this month with Senator David Vitter (R-LA) to remove certain Treasury accounts derived from the Mineral Leasing Act (MLA), the Gulf of Mexico Energy Security Act (GOMESA), the RESTORE Act, and the Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Programs from sequestration completely, thereby ensuring states receive their full payment at the appropriate time. All of the funds in question are generated from the private sector, passed through the federal government, and are then disbursed to states and other entities on a monthly or regular basis. This money is not federal spending, and it is not being used to reduce the deficit. The Senate should quickly pass our bill to ensure that these communities have the resources they need for critical services like public schools, law enforcement, and other important community services, Bennet added. The bill is cosponsored by Senators Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Roger Wicker (R-MS), Richard Shelby (R-MS), and Bill Nelson (D-FL).",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=08C9DD1C-4C2E-C4FB-63CD-3518F1561410,Senate Education Committee Members Announce Task Force to Review Higher Ed Regulations and Reporting Requirements,2013-11-18,2013,2013-11,Democrat,House,CO,Michael Bennet,B001267,www.bennet.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet joined Senate education committee Ranking Member Senator Lamar Alexander (R-Tenn.), and members Barbara Mikulski (D-Md.) and Richard Burr (R-N.C.) today to announce the formation of a task force to examine burdens on institutions of higher education. The Task Force on Government Regulation of Higher Education will conduct a comprehensive review of federal regulations and reporting requirements affecting colleges and universities and make recommendations to reduce and streamline regulations, while protecting students, institutions and taxpayers. Bennet said:We must create an environment where our colleges and universities are focused on doing what they do best, and that's educating students to succeed in the 21stcentury economy. To do that, we must to take a step back and consider how the current requirements are helping or affecting that goal. This task force offers the opportunity to take a broad look at federal regulations and requirements in order to inform our reauthorization of the Higher Education Act. What we need is a system that makes sense for students and for colleges and universities. Alexander said: Let's face it: the federal government has become one of the greatest obstacles to innovation in higher education. The stack of federal regulations on colleges and universities today is not the result of evil doers, it is simply the piling up of well-intentioned laws and regulations without anyone spending an equal amount of time weeding the garden first. This task force will help Congress weed the garden. Mikulski said: In order for America to out-build and out-innovate the rest of the world, we must first out-educate. And part of out-educating is making sure that we are supporting our institutions of higher education - helping them be them as they work to educate our next generation. Over the years, I have heard concerns from these institutions regarding federal requirements that, while well-intentioned, often end up being duplicative and burdensome.I have committed to seeing what can be done. We need to regulate, not strangulate. As this Task Force works on a path forward, it will be well-served through the leadership of the University System of Maryland's own Dr. William Brit' Kirwan, bringing with him a wealth of knowledge and experience. Burr said: The tidal wave of regulations and reporting requirements faced by colleges and universities today is stifling innovation and, worse, raising college tuition price tags as schools pass on these compliance costs to students. This task force will assemble experts and stakeholders to help streamline regulations and reduce the unnecessary burdens on institutions of higher education. The task force is co-chaired by Nicholas Zeppos, chancellor of Vanderbilt University, and William Kirwan, chancellor of the University System of Maryland. It will comprise 14 college and university presidents and higher education experts. The American Council on Education will provide organizational assistance. In letters to request participation in the task force, the senators wrote: Our higher education system remains the best in the world and is often credited for its breadth of choice and commitment to institutional autonomy. Over the past decade, however, Congress and the U.S. Department of Education have added more mandates, reporting requirements and regulations with which institutions must comply. This Task Force creates an opportunity to conduct a comprehensive review of federal regulations and reporting requirements affecting colleges and universities and make recommendations to Congress and the Administration to streamline and reduce federal regulations, while at the same time maintaining student and taxpayer protections.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=5453E710-504E-3E9B-A2DF-3659CDC9AEFC,Senate Passes Most Comprehensive Drug Safety Bill in 25 Years,2013-11-18,2013,2013-11,Democrat,House,CO,Michael Bennet,B001267,www.bennet.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Today the Senate passed a bipartisan, bicameral bill that represents the most comprehensive effort to establish safeguards for the drug distribution supply chain in the last quarter-century. The Drug Quality and Security Act would track all prescription drugs from the time they are manufactured to the moment they are picked up at the drugstore and would improve the safety of compounded drugs. The drug supply chain security provisions included in the bill are based off of Bennet's Drug Supply Chain Security Act he introduced with Senator Richard Burr (R-NC) in May after working to find consensus over the last two years. The last comprehensive effort to establish safeguards for the drug distribution supply chain was 25 years ago with the passage of the Prescription Drug Marketing Act. After years of bipartisan work in Congress and feedback from businesses and patients, we're glad that this bill has passed and is on its way to the President's desk for his signature, Bennet said. We know more from a barcode on a gallon of milk than we do from a barcode on a bottle of prescription drugs, which could mean the difference between life and death. Whether it's a stronger drug supply chain or better oversight for compounded drugs, this commonsense bill will help restore confidence in our prescription drugs and protect our families from potential health risks. A broad range of stakeholders, including the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, the Pew Charitable Trusts, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the National Community Pharmacists Association, the Federation of American Hospitals, Premier Healthcare Alliance, the American Medical Student Association, the American Public Health Association, the Annie Appleseed Foundation, the Association of State and Territorial Health Officials, the Center for Science and Democracy, the Union of Concerned Scientists, the Center for Medical Consumers, Community Catalyst, the Connecticut Center for Patient Safety, the National Association of County and City Health Officials, the Ovarian Cancer National Alliance, Trust for America's Health, Woodymatters, the Healthcare Distribution Management Association, the Pharmaceutical Distribution Security Alliance, the Generic Pharmaceutical Association, the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America, PharMEDium, the Biotechnology Industry Organization, the National Association of Chain Drug Stores, Pfizer, UPS, and Richie's Specialty Pharmacy endorsed the Drug Quality and Security Act. Excerpts from their endorsements can be seen here. The Drug Quality and Security Act is a major step forward to better ensure that our prescription drug supply stays safe for patients. Over the next decade, we will move toward an interoperable electronic system that will help us sort through recalls faster and increase patient safety. This bill is the result of feedback and contributions from all sectors of business, and it gives community pharmacists the flexibility it needs, on behalf of Colorado families, to work more closely with its drug wholesalers and manufacturers. David Lamb, owner, Good Day Pharmacies, with nine locations in Colorado We applaud the passage of the Drug Quality and Security Act, which establishes a uniform standard for electronically tracing pharmaceuticals through the entire supply chain. This landmark, bipartisan legislation is the result of years of hard work by lawmakers and the healthcare industry. We are confident that it will make the nation's pharmaceutical supply chain, already the best in the world, stronger and more secure while ensuring that patients across the country continue to have access to safe medications. Jake Kramer, McKesson Distribution Center Manager, Denver, Colorado Counterfeit and diverted medicines can have life or death consequences for patients. As part of a commitment to protecting the well-being of patients, Amgen supports the most effective measures to prevent counterfeiting and diversion. We applaud Congress for all their work developing legislation that would implement a federal track and trace standard. This legislation provides a uniform standard that will help secure the downstream movement of medicines in the supply chain. We look forward to continuing our work with regulators and supply chain partners to implement these standards in the interest of patient safety. Martin VanTrieste, Senior Vice President of Quality Administration, Amgen A summary of the bill can be found by clicking here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=C400FE19-12E9-EBF4-10B8-7E4791B08CB0,"Bennet, Udall, Tipton Press USDA to Maintain Funding for Snow Data, Water Supply Monitoring Program",2013-11-18,2013,2013-11,Democrat,House,CO,Michael Bennet,B001267,www.bennet.senate.gov,,,legacy,"U.S. Senators Michael Bennet and Mark Udall and Congressman Scott Tipton urged the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Natural Resources Conservation Service today to prioritize funding for its Snow Survey and Water Supply Forecasting Program. The program, which monitors snowpack in Colorado's mountains and helps water managers forecast supply issues before they occur, is in danger of losing funding due to looming budget cuts. ""In the face of prolonged drought, significant population growth and climate change, NRCS' snow program data provides vital information on precipitation and future water supplies essential for Colorado and the entire American West,"" the lawmakers wrote in the letter. ""Our state contains nine major watersheds, each with its own distinct snowfall patterns and obligations to downstream states. For example, current water supplies across the state range from 100 percent of normal in some areas to 40 percent in others. The ability to accurately measure snowpack in each basin, using both SNOTEL and manual snow course data, is essential for water districts and municipalities to meet the demands of competing users."" To read the bipartisan letter to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, scroll below: Dear Undersecretary Bonnie: We have been informed that the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), is contemplating a reduction in funding for the agency's Snow Survey and Water Supply Forecasting Program, specifically the number of manual snow course measurement sites in Colorado and other western states, as one option to meet increasing budgetary constraints. As the congressional delegation from the headwaters state, we view this program as essential for the forecasting and management of our most precious resource. In the face of prolonged drought, significant population growth and climate change, NRCS' snow program data provides vital information on precipitation and future water supplies essential for Colorado and the entire American West. Our state contains nine major watersheds, each with its own distinct snowfall patterns and obligations to downstream states. For example, current water supplies across the state range from 100 percent of normal in some areas to 40 percent in others. The ability to accurately measure snowpack in each basin, using both SNOTEL and manual snow course data, is essential for water districts and municipalities to meet the demands of competing users. Further, we know from the statewide water community that protecting both tools must be a priority, as automatic SNOTEL sites can often face mechanical failure mid-winter, leaving the manual snow courses as the only sources of reliable data to meet local demands and interstate compact deliveries. Intelligent and thoughtful water supply planning is critical to ensure a prosperous future for Colorado and the West. We hope that USDA and NRCS will prioritize manual snow course measurement sites as they manage their budget for FY14 and prepare their budget for future years. We call on the USDA and NRCS to ensure that the voices of Coloradans are heard as budget priorities are determined and to thoroughly assess the impacts of proposed changes the Snow Survey and Water Supply Forecasting Program. Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://perlmutter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=998,"Perlmutter Highlights Flexibility, Choices and Competition in Colorado Health Insurance Market",2013-11-15,2013,2013-11,Democrat,House,CO,Ed Perlmutter,P000593,perlmutter.house.gov,,,legacy,"Perlmutter Highlights Flexibility, Choices and Competition in Colorado Health Insurance Market f t # e Washington, DC, November 15, 2013 Today U.S. Rep. Ed Perlmutter voted to ensure people with preexisting conditions cannot be discriminated against when obtaining health insurance by voting against the 46th pointless attempt by House Republicans to repeal and/or delay the Affordable Care Act. Perlmutter said, ""In the wake of the President's announcement yesterday, I believe the majority of my constituents in Colorado will have more flexibility and choices to obtain health insurance that meets their needs as we continue the transition to the functioning and operational Colorado marketplace, Connect for Health Colorado. The rise in health insurance costs is slowing, and the rate of premium increases are at their lowest levels in years. The Republican bill before the House today doesn't move us forward. The Republican bill threatens the health care security of hard working families and allows health insurance companies to continue selling substandard plans indefinitely that do not provide basic coverage, force women to pay more for their coverage and discriminate against people with pre-existing conditions. As I prepare to purchase my own family's health insurance policy through the DC marketplace, I also browsed through Colorado's connectforhealthco.com site so I can understand the options myconstituents have. I found it easy to navigate, and there are lots of plans, options and competition within the market in Colorado. I urge Coloradans to take the time to check out what's available to them and find a policy that meets their needs."" f t # e",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20131206063403/http://www.markudall.senate.gov/?p=blog&id=3854,Getting Back on Our Feet,2013-11-14,2013,2013-11,Democrat,House,CO,Mark Udall,U000038,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Posted: Thursday, November 14, 2013 Click here to receive these regular updates via email. Dear Fellow Coloradan, When September’s heavy rains turned into historic floods, we knew the damage would be extensive and that the road to recovery would be long. But Coloradans are tough. And during difficult times we know that it’s by banding together that we can overcome any challenge. That’s why when rising flood waters cut off towns like Estes Park, Lyons and Jamestown from the outside world, Coloradans pitched in to help our neighbors in need. And when we began the long process of rebuilding, we pledged to do so stronger and smarter than before. With Coloradans by my side, I’ve been fighting to make sure we keep this promise. But households and business owners from Evergreen to Evans and Aurora to Estes Park have been left with few options. This 1,000-year flood damaged tens of thousands of homes and businesses, even those that were miles, in some cases, from the nearest rivers and streams. I saw this in my own neighborhood in Eldorado Canyon and heard the heart-wrenching stories of these tragedies when I visited communities along the Front Range and throughout the foothills. Tragically, only 2,000 of the more than 27,000 families and businesses affected by the flood had flood insurance. Many of these families and business owners have been left with few options, but there is help available. I want to make sure all affected Coloradans know this important information: The IRS is offering tax relief to flood victims. Individuals and business owners can go back and amend their previous year’s tax filing, deduct losses incurred due to flood damage and likely get a larger tax refund. Home and business owners with loans and mortgages should work directly with their financial institutions to explore options such as principal forgiveness and forbearance. These options may make sense for borrowers who think the value of their property is less than what they owe on their mortgage or borrowers who may need to temporarily suspend their mortgage payments due to hardship caused by the disaster. Homeowners can apply to the Home Affordable Refinance Program or the Home Affordable Modification Program. These programs are designed to assist homeowners in refinancing their mortgages – even if they owe more than their home’s current value. Home and business owners should visit the Colorado United website, the official state of Colorado portal for flood relief and recovery efforts, to learn about the availability of recovery resources, including temporary housing, no-cost electrical damage and plumbing assessments, and information on rebuilding houses and businesses. Coloradans residing in the 11 counties with federal disaster declarations may be eligible for FEMA Disaster Assistance. Disaster Assistance helps with critical expenses and losses that are not covered by insurance. Homeowners, renters and businesses are also eligible for Small Business Administration low-interest, disaster assistance loans. Please make sure to remember that the deadline to apply is Saturday, November 30, 2013. In the coming weeks and months Colorado will receive an allocation of Community Development Block Grants – Disaster Relief funds from the federal government which the state will administer through the Department of Local Affairs for recovery and rebuilding purposes. These funds will be an important source of Colorado’s rebuilding efforts. A portion of these funds could aid homeowners and business owners working to rebuild. For more information on these and other resources available to flood victims, please visit my flood resource page at markudall.senate.gov/floods. We in the West pride ourselves on our independence and rugged individualism, but Colorado has shown the nation that we are at our best when we stand together to confront our shared challenges. We still have a ways to go, but I will keep fighting to ensure Coloradans struggling to get back on their feet have all the tools they need to rebuild and recover. Warm regards, Tags: e-newsletter",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=A6257378-34BA-DEC6-201B-EE9086A2310E,"Bennet, Udall: 2007 FEMA Policy Could Support Debris Removal in Evans, other Colorado Communities",2013-11-13,2013,2013-11,Democrat,House,CO,Michael Bennet,B001267,www.bennet.senate.gov,,,legacy,"More than 200 mobile homes in the City of Evans have been damaged from September's flooding and require removal, but the cash-strapped city is struggling to find the resources to foot the bill. To support the city's efforts, Colorado U.S. Senators Michael Bennet and Mark Udall are calling on FEMA to use a policy for private property debris removal dating back to 2007. Under that policy, the City of Evans may be eligible for FEMA Public Assistance to remove damaged mobile homes because the homes meet key criteria set by the FEMA policy. The two Senators wrote a letter to FEMA today urging it to follow this policy and make public assistance available to help Evans clean up its mobile homes in the Bella Vista and Eastwood Village parks. The Senators also asked FEMA to apply the debris removal policy to other Colorado communities, such as Jamestown, Longmont, Lyons, and Milliken, which are in similar situations, should the towns make similar requests. In a letter to FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate, the senators wrote, The historic floods in Colorado this year resulted in the damage or destruction of over 200 mobile homes in the City of Evans. Due to the scale of the destruction, the trailers were rendered uninhabitable and deemed a threat to public health and safety that need to be removed as debris. These trailers sit on privately owned property, and due to the extent of the flood damage, it is clear that they should qualify as debris. The FEMA Disaster Assistance Policy entitled Debris Removal from Private Property (DAP9523.13) establishes criteria to evaluate the eligibility of debris removal from private property for reimbursement. These criteria include the elimination of immediate threats to life, public health, and safety; elimination of immediate threats of significant damage to improved public or private property; or to ensure economic recovery of the affected community. The policy makes clear that any one of these three criteria is sufficient to obtain FEMA public assistance. In the City of Evans, debris removal would address an immediate threat to public health and safety and would facilitate the economic recovery of the community. Bennetand Udall have worked closely with the Colorado Congressional delegation since the flooding began to ensure that Coloradans have every resource needed to save lives and rebuild. They helped lead a delegation-wide effort thatsuccessfully lifted the capon the amount of emergency transportation resources Colorado could access to rebuild damaged infrastructure. The senators also led the Colorado delegation tourge the President to quickly declare an emergencywhen flooding began to ensure that emergency funding was available for response and recovery efforts. More recently, they voiced support for Governor Hickenlooper's request toadd additional counties to those eligible for individual and public assistance and to extend the application deadline for applying for support from FEMA. Full Text of the Letter: November 12, 2013 Dear Administrator Fugate: We write to request that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) promptly approve the State of Colorado's request for private property debris removal for the Bella Vista and Eastwood Village mobile home parks in the City of Evans. Evans made this request, in conjunction with the state of Colorado, through the FEMA Public Assistance program. Moving forward, we also ask you to apply FEMA's private property debris removal policy to other similar situations in communities across Colorado that sustained heavy damage in the recent flooding. The historic floods in Colorado this year resulted in the damage or destruction of over 200 mobile homes in the City of Evans. Due to the scale of the destruction, the trailers were rendered uninhabitable and deemed a threat to public health and safety that need to be removed as debris. These trailers sit on privately owned property, and due to the extent of the flood damage, it is clear that they should qualify as debris. The FEMA Disaster Assistance Policy entitled Debris Removal from Private Property (DAP9523.13) establishes criteria to evaluate the eligibility of debris removal from private property for reimbursement. These criteria include the elimination of immediate threats to life, public health, and safety; elimination of immediate threats of significant damage to improved public or private property; or to ensure economic recovery of the affected community. The policy makes clear that any one of these three criteria is sufficient to obtain FEMA public assistance. In the city of Evans, debris removal would address an immediate threat to public health and safety and would facilitate the economic recovery of the community. In addition to Evans, we expect that there may be similar requests from other Colorado communities involving debris removal on private property, including requests from the city of Longmont and the towns of Lyons, Milliken, and Jamestown. All of these communities, like Evans, face enormous flood recovery costs. We know that in all these cases, the local resources available fall far short of what is needed to cover these costs. We therefore request that FEMA apply its private property debris removal policy in Colorado. It is our hope that this can be accomplished in the most expeditious manner possible. Thank you for your consideration. We appreciate your ongoing efforts to help Colorado rebuild and recover from this far-reaching disaster.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=4D03BDBD-BA70-2A03-2027-A8A79DB9857E,"House Passes Bennet-Alexander PREEMIE Act, Heads to President's Desk",2013-11-12,2013,2013-11,Democrat,House,CO,Michael Bennet,B001267,www.bennet.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet today applauded the House of Representative's passage of a bipartisan bill he introduced with Senator Lamar Alexander (R-TN), ranking member on the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee, to reduce infant deaths and disabilities by expanding research, education, and intervention activities related to preterm birth. The bill now heads to the President's desk to be signed into law. In an average week in Colorado, 138 infants are born preterm. This bill will help doctors and medical researchers who are working to find new and innovative ways to give our kids the best chance at a long and healthy life, Bennet said. This is important research that will help understand the causes and what can be done to reduce the rate of preterm births. The PREEMIE bill passed the Senate unanimously in September. The bill reauthorizes the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) research and programs on preterm birth, including improving national data tracking on preterm birth, and conducting studies. It also reauthorizes programs at the Health Resources and Services Administration aimed at improving the treatment and outcome for infants born premature. The bill is supported by the March of Dimes Foundation, the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, the Association of Women's Health, Obstetric and Neonatal Nurses, the Association of Maternal & Child Health Programs, and the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=FE60D070-29A1-12BC-B136-B4610F06024C,Bennet's Bipartisan Track and Trace Bill Moves Forward on Senate Vote,2013-11-12,2013,2013-11,Democrat,House,CO,Michael Bennet,B001267,www.bennet.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet welcomed the Senate's vote today to begin debate on a bipartisan bill to make pharmaceutical drugs safer for consumers by tracing them from the point they are manufactured to the pharmacy that sells them to consumers.It also raises standards for wholesale drug distributors, which will help ease drug shortages. The bill, which also provides better oversight of compounding pharmacies, is based off of Bennet's Drug Supply Chain Security Act, which he introduced in May after working to find bipartisan consensus over the last two and a half years. The Senate is expected to vote on final passage by the end of the week. Coloradans expect that we are already taking these basic commonsense steps to make sure their medicine is safe. Yet you can get more data from a barcode on a gallon of milk than you can from a bottle of aspirin two aisles over, Bennet said. This bill is the culmination of more than two years of bipartisan, bicameral work along with pharmacies, distributors, and prescription drug manufacturers. It will help us keep the prescription drug supply safe and keep our families healthy. The lack of a strong, uniform system to secure the supply chain has allowed criminals to exploit a number of vulnerabilities.Problems include drugs that are stolen, tainted, or diluted and sold back into the supply chain, counterfeit drugs, an inability to quickly recall tainted medicine, and drug shortages.All of these problems have led to serious health problems and driven up costs.Under the prescription drug security provisions of the bill, the FDA will know who has handled which drugs and when they handled them, preventing counterfeit or stolen pharmaceuticals from being sold back into the system and allowing the FDA to respond to recalls and shortages more quickly and efficiently. The Drug Quality and Security Act reflects a bicameral, bipartisan effort to address prescription drug safety and security issues.The last comprehensive effort to establish safeguards for the drug distribution supply chain was 25 years ago with the passage of the Prescription Drug Marketing Act. In addition to Senator Bennet, the bill was introduced by HELP Committee Chairman Tom Harkin (D-IA), Ranking Member Lamar Alexander (R-TN), and Senators Al Franken (D-MN), Pat Roberts (R-KS), and Burr.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20140221200829/http://www.markudall.senate.gov/?p=blog&id=3844,Standing Up for Our Heroes,2013-11-11,2013,2013-11,Democrat,House,CO,Mark Udall,U000038,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Posted: Monday, November 11, 2013 Dear Fellow Coloradan, Every November, we take time to honor our nation’s veterans. But the sacrifices these heroes made for our liberty deserves much more than a single day of thanks. Millions of veterans nationwide — more than 400,000 of whom call Colorado home — risked their lives for our freedom. Our courageous troops spend each and every day keeping us safe and defending our freedoms, and we owe them a debt of gratitude that matches their sacrifice. Veterans Day gives us a unique opportunity to pause and commemorate their sacrifices, courage and dedication. This year, I had the honor to present service medals to a Vietnam veteran and the survivors of two heroes who are no longer with us. As the son of a World War II vet, I know how important it is for military families to know that their country recognizes and values their immense sacrifices. However, support for our troops and veterans needs to be much more than just symbolic. This year, political brinksmanship and a partisan government shutdown threatened our troops' paychecks and many of the benefits our veterans rely upon. Shortly before the federal government shutdown, I introduced the Military Pay Protection Act to make sure our troops would be paid on time, even if excessive partisanship grinds everything else to a halt. Later that month, I was also able to work out an agreement to restore veterans’ access to routine surgical procedures in Grand Junction, so veterans on the Western Slope do not have to make costly and time-consuming trips to the Front Range for critical health services. Unfortunately these are not the only roadblocks that are keeping some of Colorado’s veterans from receiving the care and respect they have earned. But I won’t stop working to tear down these barriers. Currently, I’m collaborating with Congressmen Mike Coffman to explore the issues faced by veterans with Post-Traumatic Stress and identify ways we can work across the aisle to improve services. I also am championing our veterans’ ability to access the benefits they have earned by urging the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to cut through red tape and ease cumbersome new ID card requirements. As chairman of the U.S. Senate Subcommittee on Strategic Forces, the son of a veteran and a staunch supporter of Colorado’s troops, I will continue to be a passionate advocate for veterans’ rights. This Veterans Day, I ask you to join me in showing our appreciation for the veterans in our lives. And to those of you who are veterans yourselves, know that you continue to have our deepest gratitude for your sacrifices for this county and we sincerely thank you for your service. Warm regards,",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=9B82EE72-4962-5A52-BF46-2309330D6312,Bennet Statement in Honor of Veterans Day,2013-11-11,2013,2013-11,Democrat,House,CO,Michael Bennet,B001267,www.bennet.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Colorado U.S.Senator Michael Bennettoday released the following statement in observance of Veterans Day. Bennet attendedthe Denver Veterans Day Celebration on the Auraria Campus. Todaywe come togetherto honor the bravery and dedication of the men and women of the armed forces whohaveservedtirelesslyin every corner of theglobeto protect our safety at home.While the troops of today facedifferentthreats and different challenges than the troops of the past,they are all united in their commitment toourcountry and their desire to serve.As we celebrate these heroes on Veterans Day, we should reflect on the great debt we owe the members of our military, and their families,and how we can best honor theirservice andsacrifice.This includes ensuring that we welcome our service members home with respect, gratitude, and opportunity.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://perlmutter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=996,Division of Insurance Offers Facts on Health Insurance Cancellations,2013-11-08,2013,2013-11,Democrat,House,CO,Ed Perlmutter,P000593,perlmutter.house.gov,,,legacy,"Contact: Vincent Plymell, Communications Manager, Colorado Division of Insurance, 303.894.2261, vincent.plymell@state.co.us As health insurance changes for 2014 take shape, many Coloradoans have been mailed notices regarding the cancellation of health insurance policies. The Colorado Division of Insurance (DOI) wants to address consumer confusion and alarm related to these cancellations. Since carriers must notify the DOI about these cancellations, the Division has been tracking this information. Consumers who have questions about these letters or any questions about their health insurance policy should contact the Division, said Commissioner of Insurance Marguerite Salazar. While some plans are being cancelled, Coloradoans have many new options for 2014, due to the strength and competitiveness of our health insurance market. Cancellation letters must notify a consumer that the 2013 policy is cancelled, and must also highlight options for new coverage. However, the DOI recognizes that Coloradoans may still have questions. Here is what consumers need to know. 1. Insurance companies remaining in the market are required to give consumers 90 days' notice before ending a plan, as well as the option to buy any other coverage being offered by the company to individuals. Companies leaving the market must provide 180 days' notice. 2. Insurance companies are cancelling plans for many reasons. Some do not meet new federal requirements for benefits, coverage and premiums, as outlined in the Patient Protection & Affordable Care Act. Other carriers have made business decisions to discontinue plans, as part of normal business operations. 3. Consumers have options. In cancellation letters, companies are required to provide information about all the health insurance options available to consumers plans from the existing company, other companies and from Connect for Health Colorado, the state's new marketplace for health insurance. 4. Consumers should take the time to shop around. DOI approved 18 carriers and 541 plans for sale next year, many offered on Connect for Health Colorado. Colorado has a strong, competitive insurance market, and consumers have many choices. For coverage beginning January 1, 2014, coverage must be purchased by December 15, 2013. 5. Consumers can call DOI for guidance. Anyone with questions about any information provided by an insurance company can call the DOI. The Division has trained experts ready to answer consumers' health insurance questions and provide easy-to-understand information. Call 303-894-7490 in the Denver area, or 1-800-930-3745 outside the metro area. Terminated Health Plans As of November 1, a total of 23 health insurance carriers have terminated policies in Colorado; 18 carriers in the individual market; 10 carriers in the small group market. Some carriers offer insurance in both markets, which is why the total is 23 carriers. Individual Market In the individual market, the policies terminated by the 18 carriers represent 106,083 covered lives. Terminated plans from Kaiser Foundation Health Plan of Colorado and Anthem (through its affiliated company, HMO Colorado) represent 75% of the covered lives. However, both of these carriers will offer a significant number of new individual plans in 2014. Kaiser offers 54 plans for 2014 (27 through Connect for Health Colorado, 27 off of the exchange). Anthem (HMO Colorado) offers 29 individual plans for 2014 (14 through Connectfor Health Colorado, 15 off of the exchange). Small Group Market In the small group market, the policies terminated by the 10 carriers represent 143,116 covered lives. Similar to the individual market, terminated plans from Kaiser Foundation Health Plan of Colorado and Anthem (through HMO Colorado & Rocky Mountain Hospital & Medical Services) represent 76% of the covered lives. Also like the individual market, both carriers will offer a number of small group plans in 2014. Kaiser offers 66 plans for small groups in 2014 (24 through Connect for Health Colorado, 42 off of the exchange). Anthem offers 74 small group plans (5 through Connect for Health Colorado, 69 off of the exchange). ### The Colorado Division of Insurance regulates the insurance industry and assists consumers and other stakeholders with insurance issues. DORA is dedicated to preserving the integrity of the marketplace and is committed to promoting a fair and competitive business environment in Colorado. Consumer protection is our mission.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://perlmutter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=997,Perlmutter Honors Veterans and Military Families,2013-11-08,2013,2013-11,Democrat,House,CO,Ed Perlmutter,P000593,perlmutter.house.gov,,,legacy,"Perlmutter Honors Veterans and Military Families f t # e Lakewood, CO, November 8, 2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Ed Perlmutter (CO-07) released the following statement in honor of Veterans Day and Military Families Appreciation Month. ""One of my biggest priorities is standing up for those brave men and women who stood in harm's way to protect our country. I want to extend my thanks to all our veterans for their continued service to our community and our country. We also take time this month to honor those who stay behind and sacrifice while their loved one is serving. The life of many military families can be stressful as our men and women in uniform are relocated around the country or deployed overseas. Spouses may have a difficult time establishing careers of their own, and military children can have a difficult time moving between schools and enrolling in proper classes. It is important we provide ample resources to help our soldiers,veterans and their families. That's why I support First Lady Michelle Obama and Dr. Jill Biden's Joining Forces Initiative which is helping military families with job training and military spouse hiring programs, as well as easing transfers to new schools, or helping school districts respond to the unique needs of the children of our soldiers. This Veterans Day, join me in thanking an active duty soldier or veteran, and also thank their family who sacrifice quietly here at home."" ### f t # e",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://polis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=360643,Polis Applauds Senate Passage of ENDA,2013-11-08,2013,2013-11,Democrat,House,CO,Jared Polis,P000598,polis.house.gov,,,legacy,"Polis Applauds Senate Passage of ENDA f t # e Washington, November 8, 2013 Today, Congressman Jared Polis released the following statement about the passage of the Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA) in the Senate: “I am pleased that the Senate was able to work in a bipartisan fashion to protect the rights of LGBT Americans in the workplace. But the fight is far from over. The Employment Non-Discrimination Act in the House, a bill I introduced, has 196 co-sponsors, both Democrats and Republicans. I am confident that a majority of the House supports this legislation, and I will work with my Democratic and Republican colleagues to demand a vote on this important legislation.” f t # e",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=94511679-D696-19C6-6CE4-609E10F06BA6,"Bennet, Vitter Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Protect States' Revenue Wrongfully Targeted by Sequester",2013-11-08,2013,2013-11,Democrat,House,CO,Michael Bennet,B001267,www.bennet.senate.gov,,,legacy,"U.S. Senators MichaelBennet (D-CO) and David Vitter (R-LA) today introduced the bipartisanReturn Our State SharesActto ensure that mineral royalty payments and resources from sportsmen and restoration trust funds that are owed toColorado, Louisiana, and otherstates,willno longer be wrongfully subject to the sequester. The mineral leasing revenues are dispersed tostates andcommunities thatdepend on the funds to help run local governments and schools and provide other critical community services. Thesportsmen and restoration trust funds provide habitat and other environmental improvements to statesand other constituencies.All of the funds in question are generated from the private sector,passedthrough the federal government and arethendispersedto states and other entitieson a monthly or regular basis. As part ofthe automatic budget cuts commonly referred to as sequestration, and despite the fact that these arefundsowedto states under law andarenottaxpayer dollars pulled from the Treasury,the Interior Departmentand Office of Management and Budget (OMB) plan to continue to withholdmillions in royalty and trust fund payments through each fiscal year. At the end of each year they will return the onshore mineral royalties andrestoration funds to states in one lump sum. Withholding the payments from states and communities until the end of the year disrupts important predictabilityandhasthe potential toharm their budgeting and borrowing processes. These revenues are not federal spendingand are not even being used to reduce the deficit once they're sequestered. Our bill ensures that communities receive these dollars when they need them to balance their budgets and provide critical services, Bennet said. Congress should find a smarter way to reduce the debt but at the very least it should pass this bill to prevent revenue from wrongfully beingwithheld; especially if it isn't going to deficit reduction anyway. It is absolutely ridiculous for States to wait an arbitrary amount of time to receive the funds that are theirs, regardless of sequestration. Our legislation will cut the red tape and allow States to bypass the unnecessary one-year delays on program funds that are not affected by sequestration and do not reduce the deficit, Vitter said. The Bennet-VitterRelease Our State SharesActremoves theTreasury accounts derived from theMineral Leasing Act (MLA), the Gulf of Mexico Energy Security Act (GOMESA), theRESTORE Act, and the Wildlife and Sport Fish RestorationProgramsfrom the sequester completely, thereby ensuringstatesreceivetheirfull payment at the appropriate time. None of these accounts are funded by taxpayer dollars. Guidance regarding the implementation of the sequester from OMB and Treasury suggeststhat offshore mineral royalties and theadditionaltrust fund accounts included in the billshouldbe treated the same way as onshore mineral royalties andGulf Coastrestoration funds, meaning they will be withheld and sent to states at the end of the fiscal year. In a letter of support for the billto Bennet,Colorado Counties Inc. (CCI) stated: ""(CCI) wishes to express gratitude and support for your bill that would exempt payments made under the Mineral Leasing Act (MLA) from the sequestration budget reductions.Colorado stood to lose $8.4 million dedicated for sorely needed transportation, education and other infrastructure projects. It is gratifying Interior remitted the payments back to the states. These funds should be protected from future discretionary designations."" ""These conservationtrust funds were created to ensure our country's national resources will be protected despite disagreement over other federal spending,"" said Larry Schweiger, President and CEO of the National Wildlife Federation. ""We support theReturn Our State Shares Actbecause funds paid by hunters, anglers, and energy companies to ensure the sustainability of wildlife and the environment should do just that. We thank the Sponsors of this bill for keeping the trust with America's sportsmen and women by permanently exempting the Trust Funds from sequestration, said Dan Forster, President of the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies and Director, Georgia Wildlife Resources Division. The states will use these funds to fulfill our conservation commitments to our hunting, shooting and fishing constituents and for the long-term benefit and use by all Americans. The Return Our State Shares Act is cosponsored by Senators MartinHeinrich (D-NM), Roger Wicker(R-MS),Richard Shelby(R-MS)and Bill Nelson (D-FL).",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://perlmutter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=995,Perlmutter Statement on Senate Passage of ENDA,2013-11-07,2013,2013-11,Democrat,House,CO,Ed Perlmutter,P000593,perlmutter.house.gov,,,legacy,"Perlmutter Statement on Senate Passage of ENDA f t # e Lakewood, CO, November 7, 2013 This is about civil rights, equality and ensuring all Americans are protected from discrimination Today, U.S. Congressman Ed Perlmutter (CO-07) commended the U.S. Senate for passing the Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA) by a bipartisan margin of 64-32. Perlmutter said, ""This measure is about civil rights, equality and ensuring all Americans are protected from workplace and employment discrimination. No one should lose their job or be treated differently in the workplace on the basis of their sexual orientation or gender identity. I urge Speaker Boehner to reconsider his position and allow this compromise legislation with bipartisan support to come to the House floor for a vote."" ### f t # e",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=471385D6-029F-3B7E-A85A-93EC394A0425,"Bennet, Senate Pass Historic Employment Non-Discrimination Act",2013-11-07,2013,2013-11,Democrat,House,CO,Michael Bennet,B001267,www.bennet.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Colorado U.S.Senator Michael Bennetwas part of a bipartisan group of Senators voting today to pass the Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA) in the Senate. The final vote was 64-32. ENDA makes it illegal to hire or fire a person based ontheir sexual orientation. Under currentfederalemploymentlawsexual orientation is not a protected class,meaningit's legal to terminate someone based on their sexual identity. ""Today's historic votereaffirms that when we say liberty and justice for all weincludeall of our citizens,"" Bennet said. ""Everyone has a right to earn a living and provide for their families. Inthe Senate we were able to come together as Republicans and Democrats toassert thatbelief. I urge our colleagues in the House to pass this measure to ensure that, just as inColorado, LGBT citizens are respectedand treated equally in the workplace."" In 2007, the state of Colorado passed the Colorado Anti-Discrimination Actwhichpreventshiring or firing based on sexual orientation. Bennet has advocated for the LGBT community throughout his career, including sponsoring an amendment to expand services for LGBT seniors and signing on to a legal brief to the United States Supreme Court calling the federal Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) unconstitutional. He alsowas an original co-sponsor of the bill to repeal ""Don't Ask, Don't Tell.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=7CBDEDC4-EFBD-BEB6-6D79-136BE930A47C,"Bennet Seeks More Information on Military Mental Health Issues, Potential Connections to Discharges",2013-11-07,2013,2013-11,Democrat,House,CO,Michael Bennet,B001267,www.bennet.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet today introduced a bill to learn more about combat related mental health issues in the military and their connection to certain types of discharges. The bill stems from concerns brought to Senator Bennet by Colorado Veterans, including some members of his Veterans Work Group, who believe some service members may be receiving less than Honorable discharges due to behavior related to mental trauma, such as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), caused during combat.Frequently, a less than Honorable discharge can result in a loss of some Veterans benefits for the service member. Bennet's bill requires the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to explore whether service members are being discharged for conduct related to Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) or other combat-related mental health issues.The report would seek information about protocols, training, counseling, and treatment that are in place. We've heard anecdotal evidence about these discharges. Yet, we don't have the data to assess if, when, and how often this might be happening, Bennet said. This bill will help us learn if service members are losing their benefits because of behavior related to mental trauma from combat. It can serve as a basis for discussion about potential policy changes. There is no reason we shouldn't be able to strike a balance between providing for our Veterans and allowing the military to effectively enforce discipline. The bill requests GAO to conduct an inquiry surrounding questions in four categories: Assessment Process: The GAO will report back on how each branch of the military is considering the effects of mental and physical trauma related to PTSD and other combat-related behavioral health issues for service members who are being considered for discharge due to misconduct. The investigation will also look into how the Department of Defense is monitoring compliance with these assessment processes. Training: The inquiry will seek information on training available to staff, including commanders, junior officers, and noncommissioned officers, on the symptoms of mental and physical trauma in service members and how to identify them. Treatment: The bill requests data on whether and how often service members discharged for misconduct receive treatment for mental or physical trauma related to PTSD or other combat-related behavioral health issues. It also seeks data on how many of these service members receive discharges that disqualify them from receiving VA health care or disability benefits. Counseling as Related to Benefits: Finally, the GAO will seek information on whether or not service members are counseled on the loss of VA health care and disability benefits prior to accepting a Chapter 10 discharge instead of a trial by court martial. Bennet's bill follows his Veterans Suicide Panel, which Bennet created to take a comprehensive look at mental health issues affecting veterans. The panel detailed eleven recommendations to prevent Veterans suicide and specifically called for continued work to make sure our country is dedicating the resources we need to fully understand PTSD, TBI (Traumatic Brain Injury), and the other mental health injuries from combat. On the issue of service members who were other than honorably discharged, the panel acknowledged an inability to reach consensus and a need for more information. This suicide panel was formed in response to a recommendation from Senator Bennet's Veterans Working Group and a report Bennet commissioned in 2011 on how to better serve Veterans and military families. The report included recommendations on ways to make Colorado the best state for service members, veterans, and their families to live and work. Among its recommendations was a greater focuse on mental health issues.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=A58E22B9-0521-A5EE-9827-1A0FA8AE32AC,"Bennet, Udall Thank Federal Railroad Administration for Heeding Their Calls to Work with Colorado Communities to Ease Train Noise Rules",2013-11-07,2013,2013-11,Democrat,House,CO,Michael Bennet,B001267,www.bennet.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Following months of pressure and numerous requests on behalf of Colorado communities, U.S. Senators Michael Bennet and Mark Udall welcomed the Federal Railroad Administration's recent decision to review its train noise rules and consider how to cut red tape and make the required train-crossing upgrades more affordable for local taxpayers. The reassessment of the agency's rules, noted at the Railroad Safety Advisory Committee's Oct. 31 meeting, will give Colorado communities an important opportunity to weigh in as early as Spring 2014. Bennet and Udallpressed the Federal Railroad Administration in a recent letter to reopen its rules and give Colorado communities the flexibility they need to confront train noise which can hurt businesses and residents near crossings and protect public safety. ""The FRA's decision to reevaluate their regulations on train horns is encouraging news to local communities. This step demonstrates some Colorado common sense, balancing safety concerns with the desire to revitalize urban areas, promote economic growth, and generally have reasonable peace and quiet,""Bennet said. ""We look forward to continuing to work with federal and local officials to develop a responsible solution that will better support these communities."" ""I have long argued that the Federal Railroad Administration's train-noise rules, while well intentioned, were not working for Colorado communities that want to spur economic development and protect residents' quality of life,"" Udall said. ""The Federal Railroad Administration's promise to reassess its rules and seek input from Colorado communities is a win for local taxpayers and a welcomed result of how clear Coloradans and I were with the agency that these rigid rules were a problem. I urge local leaders and residents to engage in this upcoming rule-review process and help chart a sensible path forward."" Bennet and Udall have worked tirelessly to protect public safety while also ensuring that train-noise regulations do not stifle job growth, hamper economic development or detract from Coloradans' high quality of life. Pressure from Bennet and Udall forced the Federal Railroad Administration to promise in June to work with Congress to ensure its train-noise and quiet-zone rules protect public safety while also working for Colorado communities. Bennet andUdall also have urged the Federal Railroad Administration to be more flexible in how it allows Colorado towns and cities to meet its quiet-zone requirements.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=004B39CC-CED0-F49C-567D-1DB6C695DB8F,"Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee Advances Bipartisan Bill to Consolidate Federal IT Infrastructure, Save Taxpayer Dollars",2013-11-06,2013,2013-11,Democrat,House,CO,Michael Bennet,B001267,www.bennet.senate.gov,,,legacy,"The Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee(HSGAC)advanced a bill today to help reducewaste andgovernment inefficiency by consolidating the total number of federal data centers, and making those data centers more efficient.HSGAC Chairman Tom Carper (D-DE)joined the effortas a cosponsor of thebill introduced last weekby Senator Michael Bennet (D-CO), and cosponsored by Senators Tom Coburn (R-OK) and Kelly Ayotte (R-NH). Because federal agencies have been slow to act on consolidation initiatives, the bill sets hard deadlines and requires agencies to conduct inventories and implement consolidation strategies. Numerous studies have shown a relatively low utilization rate of the current infrastructure, resulting in an enormous amount of wasted space and energy and incurring unnecessary costs. This is a common sense way that we can reduce unnecessary waste, save taxpayer dollars, and ensure that our federal agencies are being held accountable. It will also help cut energy consumption at these data centers,Bennet said.Making it through committee is an important step forward for this bill, and we welcome Chairman Carper on as a cosponsor. I'm proud my committee colleagues, as well as Senator Bennet from Colorado, have moved legislation forward to support OMB's own goals to consolidate duplicative data centers and save taxpayers up to $3 billion, Dr. Coburn said. The Administration's Federal Data Center Consolidation Initiative is an ambitious challenge that is worth meeting. While evidence shows a major shift in the way the federal government thinks about and pursues IT management in its operations, it's clear that some agencies have more work to do,Chairman Carper said.We need to salute the success stories and push those agencies that have fallen short to work harder. This measure builds off of the Administration's efforts and will help agencies focus their efforts on consolidation, better manage their inventories, and ensure that the Consolidation Initiative is seen through to its conclusion. I want to thank Senators Coburn, Bennet, and Ayotte for their work on this important issue. The American people and our budget situation demand robust results, and this legislation is an important part of that effort. With over $17 trillion in debt, there's no excuse to continue to spend millions on wasteful and unnecessary federal data centers some of which are utilizing only 5 percent of their capacity, said Ayotte. Our bipartisan legislation is a common sense measure that will save taxpayer dollars by speeding up consolidation and increasing the efficiency of data centers across government, and I hope the Senate will act quickly to pass this bill. In 2010, the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) instructed federal agenciesto develop consolidation plans under the administration's Federal Data Center Consolidation Initiative (FDCCI), which could save up to $3 billion by 2015,according to the Government Accountability Office (GAO), with additional savings beyond that date. However, GAO also found that a number of agencies have been slow to implement these plans or, in some cases, to even inventory the total number of data centers they currently manage. Under the FDCCI, the federal government set a goal of shutting down at least 1,200 of the over 3,000 known data centers it owns and operates. The cost just to pay for the electricity to operate federal servers and data centers across the government is about $450 million annually. According to the Department of Energy, data center spaces can consume 100 to 200 times more electricity than a standard office space. This bipartisan legislation would help support OMB's government-wide effort to bring down these costs and conserve energy at the same time. This bill would require participating federal agencies to submit complete data center inventories and a consolidation strategy, which must include a timeline for implementation and cost-savings estimates. The legislation includes hard deadlines, and participating agencies must also submit annual updates on their progress for the next five years. In addition, the law would require the GAO to verify agency data center inventories, and woulddirect OMB to routinely report to Congress on cost savings realized to date. The GAO has publicly endorsed thelegislation, saying it is necessary to ensure that agencies close down unnecessary data centers by the target deadline. The senators have worked closely with OMB and GAO to ensure that this legislation will help strengthen the initiative and achieve meaningful savings. The bill is also supported by theProfessional Services Counciland theInformation Technology Industry Council. Senators Bennet and Coburnoriginally filed this legislation as an amendmentto theEnergy Savings and Industrial Competitiveness Act of 2013 (S.1392).",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=8104C8D8-CE0E-5784-6FDF-8B480BB32F8B,Beetle-Kill Trees to Dollar Bills: Bennet Welcomes USDA Research Grant,2013-11-06,2013,2013-11,Democrat,House,CO,Michael Bennet,B001267,www.bennet.senate.gov,,,legacy,"This afternoon, the U.S. Department of Agriculture announced that it will invest $10 million for research into converting beetle-kill trees in the Rockies into renewable energy. The research will be led by Colorado State University and will include technology developed by Cool Planet Energy Systems, a renewable energy company based in Greenwood Village, Colo. This is great news for our state, which has seen first-hand the devastation and destruction that bark beetle infestations bring, Bennet said. The USDA's grant, which will be led by CSU and driven by technology developed by a renewable energy company based right here in Colorado, goes to show how our state is a leader in tackling these challenging issues with innovative solutions. At the same time, we are also helping build a cleaner energy portfolio that will create twenty-first century jobs. These important research resources a key part of the Farm Bill are yet another reminder of why we need to pass a full, five-year Farm Bill quickly, Bennet added. The USDA's announcement comes on the heels of a Senate Subcommittee hearing Bennet chaired yesterday highlighting the need to allocate mitigation resources up-front to prevent the risk of destructive wildfires and reduce the costs of fighting them in the long run. Earlier this year, Bennet, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Subcommittee on Conservation, Forestry and Natural Resources, introduced a measure to prioritize the treatment of beetle-kill forest land. He was successful in including that provision as part of the 2013 Farm Bill that passed the Senate in June. Bennet is a member of the Farm Bill Conference Committee, which is currently negotiating the differences between the House and Senate Farm Bills to come up with one final version. Background info on the grant: Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack: Infestations of pine and spruce bark beetles have impacted over 42 million acres of U.S. forests since 1996, and a changing climate threatens to expand the threat from bark beetle on our forest lands. As we take steps to fight the bark beetle, this innovative research will help take the biomass that results from bark beetle infestation and create clean, renewable energy that holds potential for job creation and promises a cleaner future for America. This is yet another reminder of the critical investments provided by the Farm Bill for agricultural research, and I urge Congress to achieve passage of a new, long term Food, Farm and Jobs Bill as soon as possible. CSU will collaborate with the following partners to complete the project: the University of Idaho, the University of Montana, Montana State University, the University of Wyoming, U.S. Forest Service Rocky Mountain Research Station, National Renewable Energy Lab, and Cool Planet Energy Systems. Specifically, the team will explore recent advances in scalable thermochemical conversion technologies, which enable the production of advanced liquid biofuel and co-products on-site. A prototype pyrolysis system developed by Cool Planet Energy Systems, based in Greenwood Village, Colo., can be tailored to the amount of feedstock available and thus can be deployed in close proximity to stands of beetle-killed timber. This localized production leads to significantly lower costs related to wood harvest and transportation. Their distributed scalable biorefinery approach is a key element in making the use of insect-damaged trees as feedstock plausible. The award, provided under the Agriculture and Food Research Initiative (AFRI), is part of USDA's effort to develop modern solutions for climate challenges in agriculture and natural resource management. AFRI is a key provision of the Farm Bill.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20140221193154/http://www.markudall.senate.gov/?p=blog&id=3831,Steps Forward for Colorado Women,2013-11-05,2013,2013-11,Democrat,House,CO,Mark Udall,U000038,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Posted: Tuesday, November 5, 2013 Click here to receive these regular updates via email. Dear Fellow Coloradan, Women's health is about more than just ensuring individual well-being — it's about creating stronger families, more productive workplaces and healthier communities. That is why I have made it my mission to make sure that Colorado women’s views are represented in Washington and that their health care concerns remain a top priority for lawmakers. During Breast Cancer Awareness month, we paused to reflect on the thousands of mothers, sisters and daughters who are diagnosed with breast cancer every year, as well those who have lost their fight with this terrible disease. Coloradans understand that preventative care is just as important for saving lives as any treatment regimen, which is why I fought to make sure that every woman — regardless of her financial situation — can receive life-saving breast cancer screenings and other preventive care at no cost. Early detection is crucial to ensuring our loved ones can survive a breast cancer diagnosis, and no woman should forgo a mammogram or annual physical because the cost is too great. Starting in 2014, our nation's health care law will make it illegal for insurance companies to make being a woman a pre-existing condition. That means the nearly 2.5 million women who call the Centennial state home will no longer be charged higher premiums because of her gender. No longer will health insurance companies be able to deny a woman coverage because she happens to be pregnant, or is in remission from a fight with breast cancer, or is a domestic violence survivor, or has any of the other so-called “pre-existing conditions” that were used as excuses to deny women health coverage. Thanks to our new health law, for the first time in our nation’s history, these types of discriminatory treatments are banned and our mothers, daughters and sisters can no longer be denied access to quality, affordable health coverage. While there is more we can — and must — do to make sure that all Coloradans have access to the full benefits of the new health law, this significant expansion of women’s access to health care is a clear win for families throughout our state. I will continue to fight to ensure that the voices of Colorado women are heard in Washington. I also want to thank those of you who have already shared your ideas with me through my Women’s Policy Network. Women throughout our state have joined me at roundtables, written me through email and even tweeted to share with me their ideas and concerns for the future. I look forward to continuing these discussions and confronting these challenges together, and I also invite YOU to keep sharing your ideas with me. Warm regards, Tags: e-newsletter",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=0AAF039E-81CF-5419-7F14-959A2E8EC1A5,Bennet Holds Senate Hearing to Highlight Need for Wildfire Mitigation Resources,2013-11-05,2013,2013-11,Democrat,House,CO,Michael Bennet,B001267,www.bennet.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Subcommittee on Conservation, Forestry and Natural Resources, today chaired a hearing on the connection between Washington's shortsighted budgets and an increased risk for more frequent and larger wildfires across the country. Bennet used the hearing to focus on the budgeting and policy decisions that guide the U.S. Forest Service's work to mitigate and suppress wildfires. The hearing, entitled Shortchanging our Forests: How Tight Budgets and Management Decisions Can Increase the Risk of Wildfire, brought attention to shrinking budgets for mitigation efforts that studies have shown can reduce the future costs associated with catastrophic wildfires. According to the Congressional Budget Office, every $1 in wildfire mitigation funding saves $5 in future disaster losses. Getting ourselves out of this vicious cycle will be no easy task. But catastrophic wildfire is literally an issue of life or death for many people in Colorado, Bennet said in his opening statement. We are doing them, and the country, a great disservice by not tackling this problem. It is my hope that today's hearing will help us consider innovative ideas to put us back on surer footing a saner approach that dedicates the Congress and the agencies to putting in the work on the front end, before the fires do their damage, Bennet added. The hearing featured testimony from Davey Pitcher, president and CEO of Wolf Creek Ski Area in Pagosa Springs, and Sallie Clark, El Paso County Commissioner and Second Vice President of the National Association of Counties (NACo), among others. Jim Hubbard, the Deputy Chief of the U.S. Forest Service and former Colorado State Forester between 1984 and 2004, also testified. Another wildfire in southern Colorado is inevitable if conditions remain the same, Pitcher said in his testimony. When looking at the millions of acres of dead trees, we should resist simply seeing a chainsaw. Public outreach, timber sales, fuel reduction, controlled burns, and energy design should be used in conjunction to create an economically and environmentally sound forest health prescription that protects asset values on Wolf Creek Pass. The Waldo Canyon Fire was a stark reminder of the need to be proactive in our efforts to protect our citizens, property, and resources, Commissioner Clark said at the hearing. We understand that no single effort is perfect, and we cannot end the threat of destructive wildfires. But it is important that we recognize and establish a framework for state, local and federal government agencies and the private sector, to work together to identify and manage our forests in a responsible way and to implement policies that provide the ability to get the job done. Bennet has been a strong advocate for wildfire mitigation efforts. In August, he introduced a bipartisan, deficit-neutral bill that would award competitive grants to states for priority wildfire mitigation and preparedness projects on federal, state, and private land. He was also successful in securing two key provisions in the Senate version of the 2013 Farm Bill that would improve forest health and reduce the risk of wildfires: his National Forest and Insect Disease Act, which would prioritize the treatment of national forest land that is suffering from insect epidemics, and his Permanent Stewardship Contracting Reauthorization Act, which would permanently reauthorize stewardship contracting, an important tool that allows the USFS to partner with private businesses and individuals to help thin trees and reduce fuel loads. Bennet also led membersof the Colorado delegationinsuccessfullyurging President Obamato designate the Black Forest and Royal Gorge Fires as major disasters. He was alsoinstrumentalin securingEmergency Watershed Protection fundsfor areas affected by last year's High Park and Waldo Canyon fires.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=57A1E441-78D5-3CF7-263E-4BD36EDCFB13,El Paso County Commissioner Sallie Clark Advocates for Wildfire Mitigation Resources at Bennet-Chaired Committee Hearing,2013-11-05,2013,2013-11,Democrat,House,CO,Michael Bennet,B001267,www.bennet.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Today,Sallie Clark, El Paso County Commissioner and Second Vice President of the National Association of Counties (NACo), testified before the U.S. Senate Subcommittee on Conservation, Forestry, and Natural Resources, chaired by Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet, on the tragic effects of the Waldo Canyon and Black Forestfires and the importance of increasing fundingforwildfire mitigation efforts. Bennet held the hearing, ""Shortchanging Our Forests: How Tight Budgets and Management Decisions Can Increase the Risks of Wildfire,"" todrawattention tothe budgeting and policy decisions that guide the U.S. Forest Service's action to mitigate and suppress wildfires. According to the Congressional Budget Office, every $1 in wildfire mitigation funding saves $5 in future disaster losses. Hearingfrom Coloradans like Commissioner Clark who havewitnessed firsthand the destruction of these wildfiresisimportant to helping us do a better job of directing federal resources where they are needed most,""Bennet said.""The threat of wildfire in Colorado is only going to intensifyif we don't address this problem now. It's imperative that we provide our communities with the resources they need to implement the wildfire mitigation tactics necessary to reduce the number of wildfires in the coming season."" In addition to Commissioner Clark,today's hearing includedtestimony from Davey Pitcher,President andCEO of Wolf Creek Ski Area,andJim Hubbard,U.S. Forest Service Deputy Chief. Hubbard served as the Colorado State Forester between 1984 and 2004. In her testimony,Commissioner Clark stated: ""The Waldo Canyon Fire was a stark reminder of the need to be proactive in our efforts to protect our citizens, property, and resources. We understand that no single effort is perfect and we cannot end the threat of destructive wildfires. But it is important that we recognize and establish a framework for state, local and federal government agencies and the private sector, to work together to identify and manage our forests in a responsible way and to implement policies that provide the ability to get the job done. ""The Board of El Paso County Commissioners unanimously supports proactive measures to lessen the likelihood of future deadly and destructive wildfires like Waldo Canyon and supports the results of a 2007 Congressional Budget Office study that indicated every dollar invested in healthy forest and wildfire mitigation will save more than five dollars in future disaster losses."" Bennet has been a strong advocate for wildfire mitigation efforts. In August, he introduced abipartisan, deficit-neutral bill that would award competitive grantsto states for priority wildfire mitigation and preparedness projects on federal, state, and private land. He was also successful in securingtwo key provisions in the Senate version of the 2013 Farm Billthat would improve forest health and reduce the risk of wildfires: hisNational Forest and Insect Disease Act, which would prioritize the treatment of national forest land that is suffering from insect epidemics, and his Permanent Stewardship Contracting Reauthorization Act, which would permanently reauthorize stewardship contracting, an important tool that allows the USFS to partner with private businesses and individuals to help thin trees and reduce fuel loads. Bennet also led membersof the Colorado delegationinsuccessfullyurging President Obamato designate the Black Forest and Royal Gorge Fires as major disasters.He was alsoinstrumentalin securingEmergency Watershed Protection fundsfor areas affected by last year's High Park and Waldo Canyon fires.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=7C25A9C7-062C-185D-F1D4-504D3FC07921,Wolf Creek Ski Area's Davey Pitcher Advocates for Wildfire Mitigation Resources at Bennet-Chaired Committee Hearing,2013-11-05,2013,2013-11,Democrat,House,CO,Michael Bennet,B001267,www.bennet.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Today, Davey Pitcher, President and CEO of Wolf Creek Ski Area,testified before the U.S. Senate Subcommittee on Conservation, Forestry, and Natural Resources, chaired by Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet, onthe damage that the West Fork Complex Fire inflicted on southwest Colorado and ways to reduce the risk and severity of such fires in the future. Bennet held the hearing, ""Shortchanging Our Forests: How Tight Budgets and Management Decisions Can Increase the Risks of Wildfire,"" todrawattention tothe budgeting and policy decisions that guide the U.S. Forest Service's action to against and suppress wildfires. According to the Congressional Budget Office, every $1 in wildfire mitigation funding saves $5 in future disaster losses. ""Hearing from Coloradans like Davey who have witnessed firsthand the destruction of these wildfires is important to helping us do a better job of directing federal resources where they are needed most,""Bennet said.""The threat of wildfire in Colorado is only going to intensify if we don't address this problem now. It's imperative that we provide these communities with the resources they need to implement the wildfire mitigation tactics necessary to reduce the number of wildfires in the coming season."" In addition to Pitcher, today's hearing included testimony from Sallie Clark, El Paso County Commissioner and Second Vice President of the National Association of Counties (NACo), and U.S. Forest Service Deputy Chief Jim Hubbard, among others. Hubbard served as the Colorado State Forester between 1984 and 2004. In his testimony Pitcher stated: ""Over the past decade, the cost of federal wildfire protection and suppression has averaged more than $3 billion annually.The West Fork Complex Fire alone cost taxpayers $33 million.By all indications, these numbers will continue to rise. Investing a portion of this cost upfront would most likely minimizethe overall cost of responding to fires on public land and protecting the wildland-urban interface. There is a general consensus among professional firefighters that a proactive approach to fuel reduction is a far better use of funds. For example, a contracted helicopter will cost over $15,000 a day when responding to fires. ""Another wildfire in southern Colorado is inevitable if conditions remain the same. When looking at the millions of acres of dead trees, we should resist simply seeing a chainsaw. Public outreach, timber sales, fuel reduction, controlled burns and energy design should be used in conjunction to create an economically and environmentally sound forest health prescription that protects asset values on Wolf Creek Pass."" Bennet has been a strong advocate for wildfire mitigation efforts. In August, he introduced abipartisan, deficit-neutral bill that would award competitive grantsto states for priority wildfire mitigation and preparedness projects on federal, state, and private land. He was also successful in securingtwo key provisions in the Senate version of the 2013 Farm Billthat would improve forest health and reduce the risk of wildfires: hisNational Forest and Insect Disease Act, which would prioritize the treatment of national forest land that is suffering from insect epidemics, and his Permanent Stewardship Contracting Reauthorization Act, which would permanently reauthorize stewardship contracting, an important tool that allows the USFS to partner with private businesses and individuals to help thin trees and reduce fuel loads. Bennet also led membersof the Colorado delegationinsuccessfullyurging President Obamato designate the Black Forest and Royal Gorge Fires as major disasters.He was alsoinstrumentalin securingEmergency Watershed Protection fundsfor areas affected by last year's High Park and Waldo Canyon fires.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=653F6A11-926A-F50B-CA1C-93B410DC491E,"Bennet, Burr, Hatch Applaud First FDA Approval of Breakthrough Therapy Drug",2013-11-04,2013,2013-11,Democrat,House,CO,Michael Bennet,B001267,www.bennet.senate.gov,,,legacy,"U.S. Senators Michael Bennet (D-CO), Richard Burr (R-NC), and Orrin Hatch (R-UT) welcomed the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) first approval of a cancer-fighting drug that had been granted a breakthrough therapy designation, thanks to a provision that the Senators successfully included in last year's FDA Safety and Innovation Act. The provision allows for expedited FDA approval and provides more flexibility for breakthrough drugs or treatments that show dramatic responses early in development, while still ensuring drug safety and efficacy. The first full FDA approval is a milestone for patients fighting this type of leukemia, Bennet said. The breakthrough designation is already helping improve the lives of people in Colorado and across the country with a variety of diseases.FDA approval of these drugs will mean that lifesaving treatments will be more readily available for patients. The breakthrough therapies pathway was put in place to expedite the development and review of products targeting promising therapies such as the one FDA approved today, Burr said. Today's approval of the first breakthrough drug is a tremendous achievement on behalf of America's patients and families battling cancer and other complex diseases. It is my hope that the breakthrough pathway will continue to help FDA and innovators spur on future generations of life-saving treatments for patients and their families nationwide. This first approval of a breakthrough therapies drug is an important step towards getting lifesaving care into the hands of the most at-risk patients as soon as possible, Hatch said. Red tape in Washington should not stand in the way of lifesaving care for Utahns or anyone across the country, and my hope is that the FDA will continue to utilize the breakthrough designation to help treat patients with CLL and other diseases. The FDA announced Friday it had approved Gazyva (obinutuzumab) to help treat patients with previously untreated chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). CLL is a blood and bone marrow disease that usually gets worse slowly. According to the National Cancer Institute, 15,680 Americans will be diagnosed and 4,580 will die from the disease this year. Gazyva works by helping certain cells in the immune system attack cancer cells.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=685B5B10-457A-87BD-43F1-883D10977EB0,"Bennet, Senate Move Forward on Employment Non-Discrimination Act",2013-11-04,2013,2013-11,Democrat,House,CO,Michael Bennet,B001267,www.bennet.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Colorado U.S.Senator Michael Bennetwas part of a group of 61 Senators today who voted in favor of beginning debate in the Senate on the Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA). Today's vote clears a key procedural hurdle for the bill,which wouldmake it illegal to hire or fire a person based ontheir sexual orientation. Under currentfederalemploymentlawsexual orientation is not a protected class,meaningit's legal to terminate someone based on their sexual identity. ""America is founded on principles of liberty, equality, and justice for all and those principles must extend to all of our citizens, including theLGBTcommunity,""Bennet said.""But in many states, people can be fired at any time simply because ofwho they are.That'sunfair and unacceptable. This billis in line with Colorado law andthe majority of Americans who believethat everyone has a right to earn a living and feel safe and respected in the workplace."" The Colorado Anti-Discrimination Act preventshiring or firing based on sexual orientation inColorado. ""No one should ever be fired or not hired on account of their sexual orientation or gender identity, and that is why today's Senate vote on the Employment Non-Discrimination Act is a step in the right direction,"" saidOne Colorado Communications Director Jon Monteith. ""Importantly, we are proud to see that ENDA is inclusive of transgender employees -- just like the state workplace protections we succeeded in passing here in Colorado. While we still have more work to do before this bill reaches the president's desk, this vote is a milestone worth celebrating -- and Senator Bennet's leadership helped make it possible.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=EBE0DB39-6151-FB31-D5EE-B905C72802B0,"Bennet, Coburn, Ayotte Introduce Bill to Consolidate Federal IT Infrastructure and Reduce Waste",2013-10-31,2013,2013-10,Democrat,House,CO,Michael Bennet,B001267,www.bennet.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Senators Michael Bennet (D-CO), Tom Coburn (R-OK), and Kelly Ayotte (R-NH) introduced a bill to help reduce government inefficiency by consolidating the total number of federal data centers, and making those data centers more efficient. Because federal agencies have been slow to act on consolidation initiatives, the bill sets hard deadlines and requires agencies to conduct inventories and implement consolidation strategies. Numerous studies have shown a relatively low utilization rate of the current infrastructure, resulting in an enormous amount of wasted space and energy and incurring unnecessary costs. In 2010, the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) instructed federal agenciesto develop consolidation plans under the administration's Federal Data Center Consolidation Initiative (FDCCI), which could save up to $3 billion by 2015,according to the Government Accountability Office (GAO), with additional savings beyond that date. However, GAO also found that a number of agencies have been slow to implement these plans or, in some cases, to even inventory the total number of data centers they currently manage. Under the FDCCI, the federal government set a goal of shutting down at least 1,200 of the over 3,000 known data centers it owns and operates. At a time when we are facing tough choices to cut spending and lower the deficit,this is a commonsense proposal that will help the federal government save billions in taxpayer dollarswhile also conserving energy,Bennet said.We already know that this plan is a simple way to reduceinefficiencyanditensures that federal agencies are taking action toidentifyand shut downunnecessarycenters. Across the federal government, duplication, overlap and mismanagement costs taxpayers at least $250 billion every year. The way to solve that problem is one program and one area at a time,Dr. Coburn said.I'm proud to join my colleagues in offering legislation that will consolidate duplicative data centers and help save taxpayers up to $3 billion. With over $17 trillion in debt, there's no excuse to continue to spend millions on wasteful and unnecessary federal data centers some of which are utilizing only 5 percent of their capacity,saidAyotte. Our bipartisan legislation is a common sense measure that will save taxpayer dollars by speeding up consolidation and increasing the efficiency of data centers across government. The cost just to pay for the electricity to operate federal servers and data centers across the government is about $450 million annually. According to the Department of Energy, data center spaces can consume 100 to 200 times more electricity than a standard office space. This bipartisan legislation would help support OMB's government-wide effort to bring down these costs and conserve energy at the same time. This bill would require participating federal agencies to submit complete data center inventories and a consolidation strategy, which must include a timeline for implementation and cost-savings estimates. The legislation includes hard deadlines, and participating agencies must also submit annual updates on their progress for the next five years. In addition, the law would require the GAO to verify agency data center inventories, and would direct OMB to routinely report to Congress on cost savings realized to date. The GAO has publicly endorsed thelegislation, saying it is necessary to ensure that agencies close down unnecessary data centers by the target deadline. The senators have worked closely with OMB and GAO to ensure that this legislation will help strengthen the initiative and achieve meaningful savings. The senators originally filed this legislation as an amendment to theEnergy Savings and Industrial Competitiveness Act of 2013 (S.1392).",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://polis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=358350,Polis Introduces Bill to Support Innovative Solutions to Education Challenges,2013-10-30,2013,2013-10,Democrat,House,CO,Jared Polis,P000598,polis.house.gov,,,legacy,"Representative Jared Polis (D-CO) today introduced the Investing in Innovation in Education Act, which would support and strengthen locally developed best practices to improve student outcomes. The bill would codify and strengthen the current Investing in Innovation (i3) program, which awards competitive grants to applicants with a record of improving student achievement and attainment in order to invest in what works in education. To date, several school districts in Colorado are receiving funds through this i3 program, including St. Vrain Valley School District, which received a $3.6 million “development” grant to implement a school turnaround program in seven schools, and the Denver School District, which received a $25 million “validation"" grant to improve teacher and principal effectiveness. The bill has eleven original cosponsors including Reps. Tony Cárdenas (D-CA), André Carson (D-IN), David Cicilline (D-RI), John Delaney (D-MD), Suzan DelBene (D-WA), Jim Himes (D-CT), Rush Holt (D-NJ), Ron Kind (D-WI), Jared Huffman (D-CA), and David Loebsack (D-IA). “Across the country, communities are developing solutions to our nation's most pressing educational challenges,” said Rep. Polis. “The Investing in Innovation (i3) program harnesses the power of entrepreneurship and innovation so that these projects can scale to reach more students and families, while also building a research base of best practices from which everyone can benefit."" The Investing in Innovation in Education Act supports strategies to improve early learning outcomes, increase college access and success, address the unique learning needs of students with disabilities, improve the teaching and learning of STEM subjects, and support family and community engagement. Changes to the current i3 program include dedicating 25 percent of funding to grantees from rural schools to address educational challenges specific to these populations, prioritizing early stage applicants to support new educational models, and an added focus on improving teacher and principal preparation and support. ""The Investing in Innovation in Education Act will give a new generation of Americans the chance to develop promising new ideas and to prove their worth based on scientific evidence,” said Charlie Barone, Policy Director for Democrats for Education Reform. “Representative Polis and his colleagues understand that nowhere is this more needed in the U.S. than in education."" “As an organization devoted to improving K-12 public education through research-based policies and practices, we believe it is critical for the federal government to drive innovation and support evidence-based programs,” said Michele McLaughlin, President of Knowledge Alliance. “We appreciate Rep. Polis’s leadership on this issue and look forward to working with him to promote the use of rigorous research to solve today’s most pressing education problems.” The bill is supported by a broad group of organizations including AdvancED, Alliance for Excellent Education, Alumni Revolution, Boston Teacher Residency, Citizen Schools, Community Training and Assistance Center (CTAC), Democracy Builders, Democracy Prep, Democrats for Education Reform, Education Northwest, FHI360, Jobs for the Future, KIPP Public Charter Schools, Knowledge Alliance, Knowledge Works, McREL, Measured Progress, National Board for Professional Teaching Standards, New Leaders, NewSchools Venture Fund, Northwest Evaluation Association (NWEA), Public Impact, Results for America, Success For All Foundation, Talent Development-Diplomas Now, Teach For America, Teach Plus, TNTP, University of North Carolina at Greensboro- SERVE Center. University of Oklahoma-Outreach, College of Continuing Education, University of Virginia-Curry School of Education, and WestEd. For additional information, please review our fact sheet here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=B939527C-86F4-25F6-53C2-9394E4CD7F94,Bennet Statement on Highway 36 Reopening,2013-10-30,2013,2013-10,Democrat,House,CO,Michael Bennet,B001267,www.bennet.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet issued the following statement following the announcement that U.S. Highway 36, which was heavily damaged from last month's floods,willreopen on Monday, November 4, roughly one month ahead of schedule. This announcement is a symbol of the resiliency and strength of Coloradans. Since flooding began, crews from the Colorado Department of Transportation and the National Guard have worked around-the-clock to rebuild as quickly as possible. Opening the highway nearly a month ahead of time is a testament to their hard work. We are all indebted to their selflessness and service. Opening this highway also provides much-needed access to many communities, including Estes Park, bringing relief to both businesses that have been hit hard by the floods and the federal shutdown, and residents who have had to go to great lengths just to get into and out of their towns. Bennethas fought sincethe flooding began to ensure that Coloradans have every resource needed to save lives and rebuild. He was a key part of the Colorado delegation-wide effort thatsuccessfully lifted the capon the amount of emergency transportation resources Colorado could access to rebuild damaged infrastructure. He, along with the rest of the Colorado delegation, alsourged the President to quickly declare an emergencywhen flooding began to ensure that emergency funding was available for response and recovery efforts. And he recently joined the delegation in asking FEMA to support Governor Hickenlooper's request toadd additional counties to those eligible for individual and public assistance.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=CDC4A221-7592-561D-1E24-5DC4D3C1195A,"Bennet Opens Farm Bill Conference with Call for Principled, Practical Compromise to Provide Certainty for Colorado Producers",2013-10-30,2013,2013-10,Democrat,House,CO,Michael Bennet,B001267,www.bennet.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet today called on members of the Farm Bill conference committee to work together to get a full 5-year Farm Bill to the president's desk to be signed into law. Today marked the first official meeting of members of the conference committee as they work to reconcile the differences between the Senate-passed and House-passed bills. In his opening statement, Bennet said, For the farmers, ranchers, and rural communities driving Colorado's $40 billion agricultural economy, it is so important that we work through our differences to complete this process. If I could sum up what I've heard in the nearly 30 listening sessions we've had across Colorado on this topic, the message would be simple: Give us the certainty of a 5-year Farm bill. As a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, Bennet helped craft the Senate bill with input he received from dozens of listening sessions and meetings held throughout Colorado. Agriculture adds $40 billion to Colorado's economy every year, making the Farm Bill particularly relevant. It also supports tourism and other vital industries with its increased focus on conservation and forest health two priorities Bennet fought to include in the Senate bill. Senator Bennet's Prepared Remarks: Thank you, Chairman Lucas and Ranking Member Peterson, for hosting us today. And thank you to Chairwoman Stabenow and Ranking Member Cochran for your sustained effort in getting us to this moment. I'm honored to be a part of the Farm Bill conference. For the farmers, ranchers, and rural communities driving Colorado's $40 billion agricultural economy, it is so important that we work through our differences to complete this process. If I could sum up what I've heard in the nearly 30 listening sessions we've had across Colorado on this topic, the message would be simple: Give us the certainty of a 5-year Farm bill. The Senate Farm Bill reflects a bipartisan but principled and practical compromise. In it, we identify priorities, streamline duplication, and break away from old, inefficient habits. We end the days of automatically issuing payments to farmers, regardless of economic need. And we strengthen crop insurance to protect the farmers on Colorado's Eastern Plains against stubbornly persistent drought conditions. As Colorado continues to break its own export records, its dairy sector has been especially effective at finding markets overseas. The Senate bill moves away from price protection on planted acres, which will strengthen our farmers' ability to export. We should be forward-looking to arrive at a commodity policy that supports this vital area of potential growth in the farm economy. The Senate Bill makes strategic investments in additional areas of innovation and growth. It provides crop insurance and industry-led research and promotion for organicsan industry that is creating jobs at a rate of four times the national average. It provides mandatory funding for energy programsa huge creator of new wealth in rural Colorado. And the Senate bill strengthens rural development so that we can support businesses like the Abts Pharmacy in Haxtun. This pharmacy is a recent recipient of a USDA loan and now has 8 employees and serves the people in the Northeast corner of Colorado. Mr. Chairman, we need a strong conservation title with robust resources in the final bill. When disaster strikes like the horrible floods we had in Colorado it is programs like EQIP that provide immediate aid to struggling producers. The Senate conservation title includes a provision to give the Agriculture Secretary flexibility regarding the match requirements needed to finalize conservation easements. This practical idea comes straight from Colorado's farmers and ranchers. The Senate Bill would also place more land in conservation by once again linking crop insurance participation to basic conservation practices. As for public lands conservation, the Senate bill upgrades the Healthy Forest Restoration Act of 2003 to prioritize treatments on national forest lands struck by insect outbreaksincluding Colorado's beetle kill. And there's a bipartisan Senate agreement for extending Colorado's Good Neighbor authority in our national forests. Finally, I recognize the challenges ahead, especially on SNAP and other nutrition issues. As a former school superintendent, I've seen firsthand how access to food and life success are closely intertwined for our kids. While no program written by lawmakers in Washington is perfect, the structure of SNAP has proven effective during this period of high need. We should find path a forward that respects all people affected by on the Farm Bill. Thank you again for this opportunity.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://polis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=357008,Polis’ Summit County Land Exchange Bill Passes House,2013-10-29,2013,2013-10,Democrat,House,CO,Jared Polis,P000598,polis.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today, the House of Representative approved Congressman Polis’ bill, H.R. 2337, the Lake Hill Administrative Site Affordable Housing Act, by voice vote. This bill conveys 40 acres of the Lake Hill property in the White River National Forest to Summit County, Colorado. Summit County plans to use the site for affordable housing and proceeds from the sale would provide Region 2 of the U.S. Forest Service with funding to improve and maintain Forest Service facilities. Originally introduced by Representative Jared Polis in June, the bill has also been introduced in the Senate by Senators Udall and Bennet in July. “Today the House of Representatives approved a bill I introduced, the Lake Hill Administrative Site Affordable Housing Act (HR 2337), which conveys 40 acres of the Lake Hill property in the White River National Forest to Summit County, Colorado so that the county can partner with developers to build affordable housing,” stated Rep. Polis. “High rent has driven many residents of Summit County to live further and further from work. As our mountain communities continue to grow, affordable housing is becoming increasingly important.  This bill is an important step towards helping the community use the Lake Hill property in a way that improves the quality of life in Summit County. H.R. 2337 is a win-win because it will add affordable housing opportunities while providing funding for U.S. Forest Service to improve administrative facilities.” “Thank you, Congressman Polis, for passing legislation that will provide our community with much needed workforce housing.  Your legislation facilitates our community's goals of making Summit County a place where people can afford to live where they work, and work where they live,” stated Summit County Commissioner Dan Gibbs.  “Summit County is committed to turning Lake Hill into a model for interagency cooperation.  We already have heard from the USFS, State Patrol, our ski resorts, fire and school districts and our local towns.  Together we will work to provide workforce housing for our employees so they can afford to live in the community they are helping to create.  Now the ball moves from the House of Representatives to the Senate where a hearing on the Lake Hill legislation has been scheduled next month in the Energy and Natural Resources Committee.  Senators Udall and Bennet are working hard on the behalf of Summit County to expedite passage of the Lake Hill legislation in the Senate.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=67742C48-D851-ED63-8FF6-248E1C36CE7F,"Colorado Congressional Delegation Urges Federal Agencies to Maintain Focus on Restoration of Rivers, Streams",2013-10-29,2013,2013-10,Democrat,House,CO,Michael Bennet,B001267,www.bennet.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Historic Rains Redirected Waterways across Front Range Work Needs to Move Forward Before Spring Snow Melts Washington, DC Members of the Colorado Congressional delegation today urged the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to prioritize work to stabilize riverbanks and rechannel rivers and streams that were redirected following historic floods that swept through Colorado's Front Range. With winter quickly approaching, local Colorado municipalities affected by flooding urgently need to move ahead with this work. Some communities are at risk of more flooding when the snows melt this spring if local waterways are not adequately restored. In a letter to the heads of the three agencies, the delegation wrote, Rechanneling these river and stream diversions will be a multi-agency endeavor. We know that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers along with state agencies and local counties are jointly reviewing the damage to determine which sections need to be restored and what is eligible for reimbursement. We urge you to prioritize this project with renewed focus, and continue to ensure joint coordination across multiple agencies and departments to address this critical issue, the delegation added, asking the three departments to work with state and local officials to provide funding commitments for this work as quickly as possible. The delegation further warned that if the issue is not addressed in a timely manner, municipal and agricultural water supplies will be impacted and some areas and homes will be vulnerable to new rounds of flooding this spring. The letter was signed by Senators Michael Bennet and Mark Udall and Representatives Diana DeGette, Jared Polis, Cory Gardner, Doug Lamborn, and Ed Perlmutter. Members of the delegation have worked since flooding began to ensurethatColorado communities and agencies have every federal resource they need to save lives, protect homes, and start the recovery process. The delegation urged the President to quickly declare an emergency to make emergency funding available for response and recovery efforts. They also urged the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to make disaster recovery funds available and have asked the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to support Governor Hickenlooper's request to add additional counties to those eligible for individual and publicassistance. They also worked together to successfully lift the cap on the amount of emergency transportation funds Colorado could receive to repair infrastructure damaged from last year's floods. Raising the cap was included in legislation that reopened the government earlier this month. The lawmakers will continue to work together with federal agencies to advocate for critical federal resources to aid in recovery efforts. Full Text of the Letter: October 29, 2013 Dear Secretary Vilsack, Administrator Fugate, and Commanding General Bostick: We write to urge your continued focus on rechanneling and restoring a number of rivers and streams across the Front Range that have been redirected following last month's devastating floods in Colorado. As you know, historic rains poured down on Colorado in early September, leading to 500-year floods in a number of areas. These floods forced over 18,000 Coloradans to leave their homes, damaging thousands of structures and hundreds of local businesses. Nine Coloradans tragically died. The task of stabilizing riverbanks and rechanneling these rivers as communities recover has become an especially urgent focus of the recovery effort. For example, when the St. Vrain River flooded, it redrew its own course. The new riverway damaged pipelines, cut off irrigation ditches, and placed several neighborhoods in a new floodplain. If the issue is not addressed in a timely manner, municipal and agricultural water supplies will be impacted and some areas and homes will be vulnerable to new rounds of flooding in the spring. A number of other communities across the Front Range face similar challenges. Rechanneling these river and stream diversions will be a multi-agency endeavor. We know that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers along with state agencies and local counties are jointly reviewing the damage to determine which sections need to be restored and what is eligible for reimbursement. We urge you to prioritize this project with renewed focus, and continue to ensure joint coordination across multiple agencies and departments to address this critical issue. In particular, local officials are looking for clarification on how the reimbursements for stream rechanneling on private lands will be accomplished. With colder weather expected in Colorado communities in a matter of weeks, time is of the essence. We ask that you work with state and local officials to provide funding commitments for this work as quickly as possible, utilizing FEMA public assistance, any available funds from the USDA's Emergency Watershed Protection program, and any other federal funding sources that could help finance this urgent work. Thank you for your consideration. We appreciate your ongoing efforts to help Colorado rebuild and recover from this disaster.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=B14A7E5D-7AF1-94D2-3447-6C8F94E32715,"Western Senators Urge USDA to Partner with Timber Industry to Reduce Wildfire Risks, Strengthen Forest Health",2013-10-29,2013,2013-10,Democrat,House,CO,Michael Bennet,B001267,www.bennet.senate.gov,,,legacy,"A bipartisan and bicameral group of western lawmakers pressed the U.S. Department of Agriculture to partner with the timber industry to reduce wildfire risks in fire-prone areas, create jobs and improve community safety throughout the Rocky Mountain West. Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet joined U.S. Senators Mark Udall (D-Colo.) and Mike Enzi (R-Wyo.), who led the letter, which was also signed by Senators John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Tim Johnson (D-S.D.) and John Thune (R-S.D.). ""The National Forest management program in this region falls far short of meeting the need for hazardous fuels reduction and forest restoration. ... There has never been a better time to foster industry partnerships that will reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfires, restore forest health, and create sustainable rural jobs,"" the letter reads. ""That is why we ask for your renewed commitment to increasing the pace and scale of forest restoration in the Rocky Mountain Region - particularly in the wildland-urban interface and in backcountry areas supporting critical infrastructure and water supplies. Specifically, we ask you to consider increasing the investment in restoration and timber management, and continuing to pursue operational efficiencies."" Congressmen Mike Coffman (R-Colo.), Cory Gardner (R-Colo.), Doug Lamborn (R-Colo.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Kristi Noem (R-S.D.), Jared Polis (D-Colo.) and Scott Tipton (R-Colo.) also signed the letter. The bipartisan coalition sent a similar letter last year pressing Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack to partner with the private sector to treat ""more acres in our states - particularly in the wildland-urban interface, and backcountry areas with critical infrastructure."" According to the National Interagency Fire Center, the Rocky Mountain region, which includes Colorado, Kansas, Nebraska, and most of South Dakota and Wyoming, experienced 2,482 fires so far this year. These wildfires scorched 230,526 acres. Click HEREto read the senators' letter.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://perlmutter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=994,Perlmutter Applauds CDOT on the Acceleration of the US 6 and 19th Avenue Interchange Project,2013-10-25,2013,2013-10,Democrat,House,CO,Ed Perlmutter,P000593,perlmutter.house.gov,,,legacy,"Perlmutter Applauds CDOT on the Acceleration of the US 6 and 19th Avenue Interchange Project f t # e Lakewood, CO, October 25, 2013 Today Congressman Ed Perlmutter (CO-07) applauded the Colorado Department of Transportation on its recent decision to repurpose funds and accelerate the US 6 and 19th Avenue interchange project. The project will improve public safety and help the flow of traffic. I'm thrilled to hear Golden was officially approved to move forward on the US 6 and 19th Avenue interchange project. This project is important to the entire Golden community and has taken a lot of hard work and collaboration between Golden, CDOT and many others, said Rep. Perlmutter. I want to recognize and thank the Golden City officials and to CDOT for their RAMP initiative where they are repurposing $20 million to accelerate and finish the project. For further information please click here. ### f t # e",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=DDCACAD3-64EC-9399-AFCE-F416593238EE,"Bennet Wraps Up ""Coloradans Don't Shut Down""? Tour in Estes Park as Host, Busser",2013-10-25,2013,2013-10,Democrat,House,CO,Michael Bennet,B001267,www.bennet.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet today wrapped up his statewide Coloradans Don't Shut Down tour at Mama Rose's in Estes Park, where he helped the restaurant manage the lunch rush as a host and busser. Mama Rose's was hit hard by last month's devastating floods and has been working around the clock to rebuild and recover, though the recent government shutdown has proved to be a setback. There is no better place than Estes Park one of the hardest hit communities by last month's floods to highlight the resiliency and work ethic of Coloradans, Bennet said. While Washington was shutting down the government and threatening our country's credit rating over petty political differences, Coloradans were working together to stay open, rebuild, and recover. Coloradans know what it means to fulfill their daily obligations and responsibilities; in contrast to Washington, they don't shut down. While in Estes Park, Bennet also met with local officials and saw some of the recovery work being done. Bennet's Coloradans Don't Shut Down tour is aimed to spotlight Coloradans who are working hard day-in and day-out to pay their bills, despite Washington's antics. Bennet began his week-long tour on Monday bussing tables at a restaurant in Manitou Springs and riding along with police in Pueblo. On Tuesday, he stopped at a meatpacking plant in Fowler and a John Deere dealership in Alamosa. Wednesday, he helped teach a women's literature class at South High School in Denver. And yesterday, Bennet was on the Western Slope where he poured beers and fixed bikes in Grand Junction and helped sort onions at Tuxedo Farms in Olathe. Follow the tour on social media, #ColoradansDontShutDown.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://degette.house.gov/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1328:degette-opening-statement-at-hearing-on-healthcaregov-&catid=76:press-releases-&Itemid=227,DeGette Opening Statement At Hearing On Healthcare.Gov,2013-10-24,2013,2013-10,Democrat,House,CO,Diana DeGette,D000197,degette.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Diana DeGette, along with Senator Michael Bennet and Representatives Ed Perlmutter and Jared Polis, banded together with more than 200 members of Congress this week to file an Amicus Brief in the case Masterpiece Cakeshop v. Colorado Civil Rights Commission, which will be heard before the U.S. Supreme Court on December 5.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=486EEE08-0D95-2FAA-18AB-AAC756E64436,"Bennet's ""Coloradans Don't Shut Down""? Tour Continues in Fowler, Alamosa with Stops at Meatpacking Facility, John Deere Dealership",2013-10-22,2013,2013-10,Democrat,House,CO,Michael Bennet,B001267,www.bennet.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet today kicked off the second day of his Coloradans Don't Shut Down tour at a meatpacking facility in Fowler, where he joined workers at Jensen's Blue Ribbon Processing Facility. In Alamosa, Bennet stopped at U.S. Tractor & Harvest, Inc., where he talked with workers about the importance of passing the Farm Bill in between stints learning about the farm equipment U.S. Tractor sells. Whether your job is to package some of Colorado's finest beef products or to sell tractors to our farmers and ranchers, Coloradans are working hard to support their families and meet their obligations, Bennet said. Shutting down is not an option for Coloradans and it shouldn't be for Washington."" During this week's Coloradans Don't Shut Down tour, Bennet is traveling across the state spotlighting Coloradans who are working hard day-in and day-out to pay their bills, in contrast to the antics in the nation's capital. Coloradans across the state serve as a model of good behavior and Bennet will bring their voices and stories back to Washington. Standard & Poor's Ratings Services estimated the 16-day government shutdown will reduce our gross domestic product by at least 0.6 percent, which amounts to about $24 billion. In addition to his stops today at Jensen's Blue Ribbon Processing and U.S. Tractor & Harvest, Bennet spent yesterday bussing tables at a restaurant in Manitou Springs and joining the Pueblo Police Department for a ride-along. Tomorrow he will substitute teach in Denver, while Thursday he will serve beer at a brewery in Grand Junction and help sort and package onions at a farm in Olathe.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=DC97C152-8BD5-7788-1DF8-64BDF668A0EF,Colorado Congressional Delegation Welcomes Additional FEMA Assistance for Flood Recovery Efforts,2013-10-22,2013,2013-10,Democrat,House,CO,Michael Bennet,B001267,www.bennet.senate.gov,,,legacy,"The Colorado Congressional delegation today welcomed the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) decision to add several counties to those eligible for individual and public assistance for flood recovery efforts. The announcement follows Governor Hickenlooper's request to FEMA, which was supported by the entire delegation. Coloradans have demonstrated a remarkable sense of unity and resilience since last month's floods. They came together in the immediate aftermath to help save lives and property, and now they've begun the monumental task of rebuilding their communities, the delegation said. Extending assistance to these additional counties will help ensure that everyone affected by the floods has access to critical resources to get back on their feet. FEMA has been an incredible partner throughout this unthinkable tragedy, and we look forward to continuing to work with them to ensure communities have the resources they need to rebuild. Individual Assistance, such as disaster unemployment and housing assistance, is now available to residents in Fremont and Morgan counties. Communities in Arapahoe, Crowley, Denver, Fremont, Gilpin, Lake, Lincoln, and Sedgwick counties are now eligible to apply for Public Assistance from FEMA, which includes things like debris removal and the repair or rebuilding of public facilities and infrastructure. FEMA continues to review the requests for assistance in the other counties identified by the governor. Earlier this week, Gov. Hickenlooper formally requested that Broomfield, Denver, Fremont, Gilpin, Morgan, Otero, and Washington counties be designated for Individual Assistance. The governor also asked that Arapahoe, Crowley, Denver, Fremont, Gilpin, Lake, Lincoln, and Sedgwick counties be made eligible for Public Assistance. The entire congressional delegation has worked since the flooding began to ensure Colorado communities and agencies have every federal resource they need to save lives, protect homes, and start the recovery process. The recent bill passed to fund the government included a provision written by members of the delegation to raise the cap on emergency highway funding available to Colorado to rebuild and repair roads and bridges battered by the floods. They also led a delegation effort urging the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to make disaster recovery funds available. The lawmakers will continue to work together with federal agencies to advocate for critical federal resources to aid in recovery efforts.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://perlmutter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=992,"Colorado Congressional Delegation, Governor Mark Access to New Emergency Transportation Funding",2013-10-21,2013,2013-10,Democrat,House,CO,Ed Perlmutter,P000593,perlmutter.house.gov,,,legacy,"Colorado U.S. Senators Michael Bennet and Mark Udall, Congressmen Ed Perlmutter, Jared Polis, and Cory Gardner, Governor John Hickenlooper, and local officials gathered today in Coal Creek Canyon to highlight the emergency transportation funding newly available to help rebuild and repair roads, bridges, and highways damaged in recent flooding. While Washington shut down, Colorado's Congressional delegation - House members and Senators, Democrats and Republicans - worked together to secure a provision to lift the cap on how much emergency transportation funding Colorado can access. The delegation spent weeks urging their colleagues to pass the measure. It was included in the Senate's bipartisan agreement to end the shutdown and avoid a default. Instead of $100 million, Colorado can now access up to $450 million in emergency funding to rebuild roads and bridges. The Colorado Department of Transportation estimates that this new cap will cover the full costs of Colorado's federally- maintained highway damage, covering at least 200 highway lane miles. ""These new funds will allow state and local road repair to happen even faster,"" Hickenlooper said. ""This is a critical step for helping to rebuild our communities. We want to thank Colorado's delegation for working together, across party lines, to increase the Federal Highways Administration Emergency Relief Program cap."" ""One month ago, biblical rains changed the map of Colorado, washing away homes and highways alike,"" Udall said. ""I am proud to have worked across the aisle and to clear the way for Colorado to receive $450 million for flood recovery and rebuilding efforts -- a significant, game-changing amount of money. Because of this momentous win, Colorado will be able to reconnect communities literally marooned by the flood -- and re-forge the links between Main Street businesses in places like Jamestown and Lyons and the Front Range."" ""In Colorado, we know how to work together. Community leaders, local elected officials, businesses, and non-profit groups from across the state have come together to assist in recovery efforts and have set an example of cooperation and generosity we all should follow,"" Bennet said. ""Our Congressional delegation is no different. We know how to come together in times of crisis to put our state first, and petty political differences last. That's how we were able to collaborate across party lines and across chambers of Congress to remove this roadblock on emergency transportation funding and ensure that these communities receive the resources they need to rebuild stronger than before."" ""The floods washed away and damaged mile after mile of Colorado highways and byways. The loss of life and property have taken a toll on many, and I am relieved Colorado can rebuild the many roads and bridges - some of which were the only way to access communities - that were destroyed due to this historic flooding,"" Gardner said. ""In times such as these, when political gridlock seems to paralyze Washington to the core, I am honored to work with my Colorado Congressional colleagues to do the job that Coloradans expect us to do."" ""The catastrophic floods that started on September 11th took lives and cost our State and communities hundreds of millions of dollars in damage. I want to thank the incredible response of FEMA and the State of Colorado in the immediate aftermath of this disaster, also our first responders, the police, firefighters, the Colorado National Guard and other emergency workers,"" said Perlmutter. ""Upon assessing the initial damage, it was clear we needed more federal funds available for infrastructure repair. The Colorado delegation, both Republicans and Democrats pulled together and got it done."" ""I am proud to have worked with my colleagues to raise the cap on emergency relief transportation funding so Colorado is able to repair road damage caused by last month's horrendous flooding,"" Polis said. ""Our success in getting Colorado these much needed funds shows what can happen when we work together in a bipartisan effort toward an important goal."" ""Since the floods began, I have worked with my colleagues to ensure Colorado received the federal aid necessary to recover from this tragic disaster,"" Coffman said. ""I am pleased the Continuing Resolution included our House-passed Federal Highways Administration Emergency Relief bill so our communities will have the necessary resources to recover and rebuild after the catastrophic floods."" ""All across the state, residents have lost their homes, businesses have been devastated, and communities have been destroyed. From mountain highways, to bridges that connect towns and neighborhoods, to roads that are the only lifeline for isolated communities, over 200 miles of Colorado roads have been impacted by the flooding,"" DeGette said. ""By removing the cap on the Federal Highway Emergency Relief Program, Colorado can now get the assistance and relief it so urgently needs to rebuild. The Colorado delegation joined together in this effort, and I am so proud of this bipartisan achievement to get desperately needed resources to our constituents."" Members of the delegation have worked since flooding began to ensure that Colorado communities and agencies have every federal resource they need to save lives, protect homes, and start the recovery process. The delegation urged the President to quickly declare an emergency to make emergency funding available for response and recovery efforts. They also urged the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to make disaster recovery funds available and have asked the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to support Governor Hickenlooper's request to add additional counties to those eligible for individual and public assistance. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20140221184040/http://www.markudall.senate.gov/?p=blog&id=3795,Rebuilding Stronger and Smarter,2013-10-21,2013,2013-10,Democrat,House,CO,Mark Udall,U000038,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Posted: Monday, October 21, 2013 Click here to receive these regular updates via email. Dear Fellow Coloradan, The September floods devastated dozens of communities across the Front Range and through the plains. When the torrential rains finally stopped, entire towns had been nearly wiped off the map. But Coloradans have shown the nation that in the face of natural disasters, our resilient spirit shines through and we do all we can to rebuild better, stronger and smarter than before. That's why, with Coloradans by my side, I've been working tirelessly to ensure that we have access to every federal resource available to aid our recovery. As part of that effort, I am proud to announce that I was able to clear the way for Colorado to receive up to $450 million for flood-related highway recovery and road rebuilding efforts — a significant, game-changing amount of support. Because of this momentous win, Colorado will be able to reconnect communities marooned by the flood — and re-forge the links between the economies and Main Street businesses in places like Jamestown, Lyons and other communities. Thanks to countless residents, volunteers and National Guard troops, we are making incredible progress. The work to rebuild U.S. Highway 36 — a critical route between Lyons and Estes Park — is moving along quickly and the highway is open. And so many other communities in Boulder, Weld, Larimer and counties across the region are on track to recover. The emergency transportation funds that I helped secure will ensure that Colorado's recovery efforts are not slowed down. But rebuilding takes hard work, and Coloradans across the state must continue to support the dedicated professionals and volunteers who are on the front lines of our recovery efforts. Please join me in thanking the FEMA personnel, National Guard volunteers and countless other Coloradans who are helping us rebuild stronger and smarter. Colorado's sense of strength is shining through. Together, we'll make our communities whole again. Warm regards, Tags: e-newsletter",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=20652DAC-573E-41E3-835A-5AA1FFDAB598,"Colorado Congressional Delegation, Governor Mark Access to New Emergency Transportation Funding",2013-10-21,2013,2013-10,Democrat,House,CO,Michael Bennet,B001267,www.bennet.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Colorado U.S. Senators Michael Bennet and Mark Udall, Congressmen Ed Perlmutter, Jared Polis, and Cory Gardner, Governor John Hickenlooper, and local officials gatheredtoday in Coal Creek Canyonto highlight the emergency transportation funding newly available to help rebuild and repair roads, bridges, and highways damaged in recent flooding. While Washington shut down, Colorado's Congressional delegation House members and Senators, Democrats and Republicans worked together to secure a provision to lift the cap on how much emergency transportation funding Colorado can access. The delegation spent weeks urging their colleagues to pass the measure. It was included in the Senate's bipartisan agreement to end the shutdown and avoid a default. Instead of $100 million, Colorado can now access up to $450 million in emergency funding to rebuild roads and bridges. The Colorado Department of Transportation estimates that this new cap will cover the full costs of Colorado'sfederally-maintained highway damage,coveringat least 200 highway lane miles. These new funds will allow state and local road repair to happen even faster, Hickenlooper said. This is a critical step for helping to rebuild our communities. We want to thank Colorado's delegation for working together, across party lines, to increase the Federal Highways Administration Emergency Relief Program cap. One month ago, biblical rains changed the map of Colorado, washing away homes and highways alike, Udall said. I am proud to have worked across the aisle and to clear the way for Colorado to receive $450 million for flood recovery and rebuilding efforts a significant, game-changing amount of money. Because of this momentous win, Colorado will be able to reconnect communities literally marooned by the flood and re-forge the links between Main Street businesses in places like Jamestown and Lyons and the Front Range. In Colorado, we know how to work together. Community leaders, local elected officials, businesses, and non-profit groups from acrossthestate have come together to assist in recovery efforts and have set an example of cooperation andgenerositywe all should follow, Bennet said. Our Congressional delegation is no different. We know how to come together in times of crisis to put our state first, and petty political differences last. That's how we were able to collaborate across party lines and across chambers of Congress to remove this roadblock on emergency transportation funding and ensure that these communitiesreceivethe resources they need to rebuild stronger than before. The floods washed away and damaged mile after mile of Colorado highways and byways. The loss of life and property have taken a toll on many, and I am relieved Colorado can rebuild the many roads and bridges some of which were the only way to access communities that were destroyed due to this historic flooding, Gardner said. In times such as these, when political gridlock seems to paralyze Washington to the core, I am honored to work with my Colorado Congressional colleagues to do the job that Coloradans expect us to do. The catastrophic floods that started on September 11th took lives and cost our State and communities hundreds of millions of dollars in damage. I want to thank the incredible response of FEMA and the State of Colorado in the immediate aftermath of this disaster, also our first responders, the police, firefighters, the Colorado National Guard and other emergency workers, said Perlmutter. Upon assessing the initial damage, it was clear we needed more federal funds available for infrastructure repair. The Colorado delegation, both Republicans and Democrats pulled together and got it done. I am proud to have worked with my colleagues to raise the cap on emergency relief transportation funding so Colorado is able to repair road damage caused by last month's horrendous flooding, Polis said. Our success in getting Colorado these much needed funds shows what can happen when we work together in a bipartisan effort toward an important goal. Since the floods began, I have worked with my colleagues to ensure Colorado received the federal aid necessary to recover from this tragic disaster, Coffman said. I am pleased the Continuing Resolution included our House-passed Federal Highways Administration Emergency Relief bill so our communities will have the necessary resources to recover and rebuild after the catastrophic floods. All across the state, residents have lost their homes, businesses have been devastated, and communities have been destroyed. From mountain highways, to bridges that connect towns and neighborhoods, to roads that are the only lifeline for isolated communities, over 200 miles of Colorado roads have been impacted by the flooding, DeGette said.By removing the cap on the Federal Highway Emergency Relief Program, Colorado can now get the assistance and relief it so urgently needs to rebuild. The Colorado delegation joined together in this effort, and I am so proud of this bipartisan achievement to get desperately needed resources to our constituents. Members of the delegation have worked since flooding began to ensurethatColorado communities and agencies have every federal resource they need to save lives, protect homes, and start the recovery process. The delegation urged the President to quickly declare an emergency to make emergency funding available for response and recovery efforts. They also urged the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to make disaster recovery funds available and have asked the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to support Governor Hickenlooper's request to add additional counties to those eligible for individual and publicassistance.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=2122AF9C-0717-2C42-BFDE-C654D0C491BB,"Bennet, Bipartisan Group of Senators Call On SEC to Release Crowdfunding Rules",2013-10-21,2013,2013-10,Democrat,House,CO,Michael Bennet,B001267,www.bennet.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Today, Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet, as well as Senators Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Jerry Moran (R-KS), Mark Warner (D-VA), Kelly Ayotte (R-NH), Jon Tester (D-MT), Pat Toomey (R-PA), and Mary Landrieu (D-LA) called on U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Chairman Mary Jo White to quickly issue rules governing crowdfunding activities. Bennet and Merkley were lead sponsors on the CROWDFUND Act, which was passed on April 5, 2012 and legalizes the raising of start-up capital for small businesses on the internet. The legislation was signed into law on April 5, 2012, and in it Congress directed the SEC to publish rules on the crowdfunding provisions within 270 days of enactment, the Senators wrote. It has now been over 530 days since the JOBS Act became law, and we have not seen a proposal from the SEC on crowdfunding. We are concerned that so much time has passed without action. The full text of the letter to Hon. Mary Jo White is below: October 21, 2013 Dear Chairman White: We write in response to recent news reports that the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is nearing the point of proposing regulations on crowdfunding. Proposed regulations have been delayed significantly, and we urge the SEC to move forward with its proposal as soon as possible. The Jumpstart Our Business Startups (JOBS) Act was adopted with bipartisan support in both the Senate and the House of Representatives. The legislation was signed into law on April 5, 2012, and in it Congress directed the SEC to publish rules on the crowdfunding provisions within 270 days of enactment. It has now been over 530 days since the JOBS Act became law, and we have not seen a proposal from the SEC on crowdfunding. We are concerned that so much time has passed without action. The law provides a new financial market for entrepreneurs and startup companies to raise capital, while ensuring investors are protected. We respect and support the SEC's rulemaking role in structuring this new financial market. Done right and with input from entrepreneurs and investors, the SEC can create a marketplace that is trustworthy and achieves the goals of the crowdfunding provisions of the JOBS Act. In particular, we have heard from entrepreneurs who have created crowdfunding platforms and those who want to raise capital via this new mechanism, both of whom have been hurt by the delay. The new marketplace is designed to provide a mechanism for small and new businesses to access capital crucial to job creation and growing our economy, while providing investors with opportunities to participate thoughtfully in these endeavors. We urge you to move quickly to propose rules on crowdfunding and thank you in advance for your prompt attention to this matter. Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=2CC8A429-B9E2-5477-2F49-B64DC7AE2E73,"Bennet Kicks Off ""Coloradans Don't Shut Down""? Tour, Busses Tables at Adams Mountain Caf in Manitou Springs",2013-10-21,2013,2013-10,Democrat,House,CO,Michael Bennet,B001267,www.bennet.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet today launched a statewide Coloradans Don't Shut Down tour with a stop at Adams Mountain Caf in Manitou Springs, where he bussed tables alongside the wait staff. Bennet is traveling the state and joining Coloradans in a variety of everyday jobs to highlight the stark contrast between Colorado and Washington, DC. From our police officers that keep us safe, to our teachers instructing our kids, to the men and women working everyday on the assembly line, Coloradans do their jobs day-in and day-out, Bennet said. Back in Washington, they might think it's okay to shut down the government and threaten default just to make a political point, but Coloradans know how important it is to meet their daily responsibilities and obligations. During the Coloradans Don't Shut Down tour, Bennet is traveling the state spotlighting Coloradans who are working hard to pay their bills despite Washington's antics. Standard & Poor's Ratings Services estimated the 16-day government shutdown will reduce our gross domestic product by at least 0.6 percent, which amounts to about $24 billion. In addition to bussing tables, Bennet will be joining the Pueblo Police Department for a ride-along, packing meats at a processing facility in Fowler, working at a John Deere dealership in Alamosa, and substitute teaching in Denver, among other jobs.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://perlmutter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=991,"Udall, Perlmutter Welcome Federal Advisory Board's Decision to Ease Ability for Rocky Flats Workers to Access Benefits",2013-10-18,2013,2013-10,Democrat,House,CO,Ed Perlmutter,P000593,perlmutter.house.gov,,,legacy,"U.S. Senator Mark Udall and Congressman Ed Perlmutter welcomed news thata federal advisory boardrecommended making it easier for affected Rocky Flats workers to qualify for federal assistance under the Energy Employees Occupational Illness and Compensation Program Act (EEOICPA). The recommendation allows those who worked at Rocky Flats from 1952 to 1983 to qualify for benefits under a ""special exposure cohort status."" The new classification will alleviate some of the currently burdensome application processes and speed up access to compensation and treatment for health problems stemming from their service. The advisory board's recommendation, which stems from findings by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), now goes to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services for approval. ""Throughout the Cold War, thousands of workers at Rocky Flats put their health on the line to help the United States prevail. We owe it to them to ensure that they receive the care and compensation they deserve,""Udall said. ""I have fought for full and fair compensation for these patriots since 1998, and that's why I am proud that the EEOICPA federal advisory board has moved us one step closer to doing what was needed from the start to grant sick Rocky Flats workers special cohort status so their much needed benefits won't be delayed further. This is a major victory for Colorado's nuclear workers."" ""For years, Rocky Flats workers have fought for the healthcare and compensation they earned during their service working in dangerous conditions on behalf of our nation,""Perlmutter said. ""I applaud NIOSH and the Advisory Board for Radiation and Worker Health for their decision on the Rocky Flats petition and recommending this approval. I encourage NIOSH to continue working to evaluate the remaining Rocky Flats workers not included in this decision, and for the Advisory Board to move quickly to grant all workers at Rocky Flats access to the benefits authorized by Congress. I will continue working with my colleagues in Congress on reforming EEOICPA so nuclear weapons workers across the country can get the healthcare and benefits they deserve."" Udall and Perlmutter senta letter earlier this month to the Advisory Board on Radiation and Worker Healthurging it to give ""special exposure cohort status"" to Rocky Flats workers who were exposed to radioactive and toxic substances during their work at the Cold-War Era plutonium-pit production facility. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=3418F25B-F59E-C390-3C8F-B9BB474C519C,"Colorado Congressional Delegation Urges FEMA to Make Flood Assistance Available to More Counties, Extend Application Deadlines",2013-10-18,2013,2013-10,Democrat,House,CO,Michael Bennet,B001267,www.bennet.senate.gov,,,legacy,"The Colorado Congressional delegation today urged the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to support Governor Hickenlooper's request to add several counties to those eligible for individual and public assistance to recover from last month's historic floods and to extend the registration and application deadlines. Earlier this week, Gov. Hickenlooper formally requested that Broomfield, Denver, Fremont, Gilpin, Morgan, Otero, and Washington counties be designated for Individual Assistance and that Arapahoe, Crowley, Denver, Fremont, Gilpin, Lake, Lincoln, and Sedgwick counties be made eligible for Public Assistance. The Governor also requested that the registration and application deadlines for filing for assistance be extended. In a letter to FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate, the delegation wrote, We urge you to use your discretion to expand Individual Assistance and Public Assistance to the additional Colorado counties requested by Governor Hickenlooper on October 17th. Homeowners and businesses in these counties experienced significant destruction as a result of the floods. Many survivors continue to rebuild in inaccessible locations, and need additional time to adequately complete their applications, the delegation added, citing the government shutdown, recent snow accumulation, and extensive highway damage all of which delayed important recovery assessments as further rationale for extending the filing deadlines. The entire Congressional delegation has worked since the flooding began to ensure Colorado communities and agencies have every federal resource they need to save lives, protect homes and start the recovery process. The recent bill passed to fund the government included a provision written by members of the delegation to raise the cap on emergency highway funding available to Colorado to rebuild and repair roads and bridges battered by the floods. They also urged the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to make disaster recovery funds available. The lawmakers will continue to work together with federal agencies to advocate for critical federal resources to aid in recovery efforts. Full Text of the Letter: October 18, 2013 Dear Administrator Fugate: We write to support Governor Hickenlooper's request to add individual and expanded public assistance to additional Colorado counties recovering from the unprecedented flooding that swept the Front Range last month. The Governor requested that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) add individual assistance to Broomfield, Denver, Fremont, Gilpin, Morgan, Otero and Washington counties, and further requested that Public Assistance expand for Arapahoe, Crowley, Denver, Fremont, Gilpin, Lake, Lincoln, Sedgwick, Otero and Pueblo counties. The Governor also requested the extension of a number of application deadlines associated with the recovery. We ask that you move expeditiously to consider and grant all of these requests. As you know, storms struck Colorado in early September, damaging or destroying at least 16,000 homes, and hundreds of local businesses. The state continues to assess the damage, but it is clear that hundreds of millions of dollars of public infrastructure have been swept away. Nine Coloradans tragically died in the floods. Over 20,000 Colorado families have already registered for individual assistance, more than 1,400 have applied for an SBA disaster loan, and we expect these numbers will continue to rise. The scale of damage is overwhelming. In parts of the state, this event was a 500-year flood, or worse. Coloradans are resilient. We know we will recover from these storms, and we know we will rebuild our communities so that they are stronger than ever. Across the Front Range, first responders, community leaders, neighbors and friends have gone to heroic lengths first to save lives, and now to begin the enormous task of rebuilding with a determination that has always defined our state. But Coloradans are also practical, and we also know that given the severity and magnitude of this disaster, any recovery will require a sustained commitment of federal resources. We commend you and the personnel you oversee and for the urgency and efficiency with which FEMA has responded to the disaster so far. However, there is more work to be done. We urge you to use your discretion to expand Individual Assistance and Public Assistance to the additional Colorado counties requested by Governor Hickenlooper on October 17th. Homeowners and businesses in these counties experienced significant destruction as a result of the floods. Finally, we ask that you extend the registration and application deadlines that Governor Hickenlooper specified in his October 17th request. As the Governor pointed out, many survivors continue to rebuild in inaccessible locations, and need additional time to adequately complete their applications. The expansion of Individual Assistance and Public Assistance for a number of new counties as requested by the Governor, if granted by FEMA, will also give homeowners and businesses in the new counties a significantly compressed timeframe to apply for disaster loans and benefits. Moreover, the shutdown of the federal government, the extensive damage to Colorado highways, and recent snow accumulation all further delayed a number of assessments and processes that are integral to the recovery process. All of these factors provide a compelling rationale for extending these key deadlines. We urge you to move expeditiously to grant his request, and expand the disaster declaration to cover homeowners who, up until today, have not been eligible to apply for the assistance available to so many thousands of other affected Coloradans. Thank you for your consideration.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20140221183304/http://www.markudall.senate.gov/?p=blog&id=3778,U.S. Leadership in Shaping Global Security,2013-10-17,2013,2013-10,Democrat,House,CO,Mark Udall,U000038,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Skip to Content TEXT-ONLY A- A+ Home About Mark About Mark Committee Assignments Voting Record About Colorado Issues Afghanistan and Pakistan Agriculture Bridging the Partisan Divide Caring for Former Rocky Flats Workers Education Energy and Environment Equality & Colorado Values Fiscal Responsibility Health Care Hunting, Fishing and 2nd Amendment Rights Immigration Reform Jobs and the Economy Natural Resources Oversight and Government Reform Science and Technology Taxes Terrorism and National Security Veterans Water Serving Coloradans Welcome Federal Grants & Opportunities Veterans & Active Duty Military Social Security and Medicare Immigration & State Department IRS and Taxes Students Housing More Services Email Newsletter Meet and Greet with Mark Events Newsroom Blog News Audio Video Op-Eds Press Kit Visiting DC Contact U.S. Leadership in Shaping Global Security Live Coverage of Forum Addressing U.S. Policy in the Middle East, Counterterrorism, Cyber Security & Emerging Threats Posted: Thursday, October 17, 2013 I am proud every day to represent Colorado in the U.S. Senate and to make sure our state's spirit of strength and independence have a place in the nation's pivotal and ongoing debates about our national security and foreign policy. And it is a privilege to be able to give you a front-row seat to these important debates, at my annual Colorado Capital Conference in Washington and my events here in Colorado. As a member of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee and the U.S. Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, I am thrilled to join former Defense Secretary and CIA Director Leon Panetta at a public forum on the evening of Thursday, Oct. 17. If you are unable to attend in person, you can watch the event starting at 7 p.m. MT via the live-stream above. I hope you will be able to join me online for this important discussion. By: Mike Saccone Newsletter Facebook Twitter YouTube Flickr Events Saturday, November 9, 2013 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM | Hiawatha Davis Jr. Recreation Center Friday, July 12, 2013 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM | Burlington Community Center Friday, June 28, 2013 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM | Pueblo West Library Saturday, June 8, 2013 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM | The Aurora Center for Active Adults Serving Coloradans Email Newsletter Meet and Greet with Mark Help with Federal Agencies Veterans & Military Tour Requests Federal Grants & Opportunities Students Request a Flag   Newsroom Issues & Legislation More... Serving Coloradans Regional Offices Northwest Region P.O. Box 866 Clark, CO 80428 P: 303-650-7820 Northeast Region 801 8th Street Suite 140A Greeley, CO 80631 P: 970-356-5586 Driving Directions West Slope Region 400 Rood Avenue Suite 220 Grand Junction, CO 81501 P: 970-245-9553 Driving Directions Denver Metro Area Region 999 18th Street Suite 1525, North Tower Denver, CO 80202 P: 303-650-7820 Driving Directions Southern Colorado Region 107 West B Street Pueblo, CO 81003 P: 719-542-1701 Driving Directions Four Corners Region 954 East 2nd Avenue Suite 106 Durango, CO 81301 P: 970-247-1047 Driving Directions Pikes Peak Region 2880 International Circle Suite 107 Colorado Springs, CO 80910 P: 719-471-3993 Driving Directions San Luis Valley Region Office 609 Main Street Suite 205 Alamosa, CO 81101 P: 719-589-2101 Official Website of Mark Udall  |  Privacy Policy  |  Site Map Regional Information Click a region on the map to view office information.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20140221194428/http://www.markudall.senate.gov/?p=blog&id=3788,Back to Work,2013-10-17,2013,2013-10,Democrat,House,CO,Mark Udall,U000038,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Posted: Thursday, October 17, 2013 Click here to receive these regular updates via email. Dear Fellow Coloradan, Despite the more than two-week government shutdown and imminent threat of a default on our nation's obligations, the U.S. Senate bridged the partisan divide and found a common-sense way forward. This agreement ensures that we can once again focus on strengthening our economy and boosting job creators. This bipartisan collaboration also shows that brinksmanship and games of political chicken don’t bring results — they only hurt the economy, Main Street businesses and middle-class families. Throughout the shutdown, I spoke with Coloradans who asked why one faction of one party in one house of Congress was willing to do such damage to our economy. I’ve wondered that, too. Coloradans are strong and independent — and I am honored to represent our state in Washington — but we also understand that America is at its best when we stand together to face our common challenges. Although the shutdown and threat of a default was costly, in the end I was proud to bring Colorado's spirit of strength, independence and pragmatism to this agreement. And I was gratified to lead the effort to include deficit-neutral language in the final bill that will allow Colorado to access up to $450 million to rebuild the roads, highways and bridges washed away in the September floods. This was a major victory for our state, and I appreciate all the support you showed me along the way as I fought for passage of this flood-relief provision. Now that we have moved past the brinksmanship that threatened our economic recovery and families across Colorado, we should turn to the challenges facing our nation. It’s time to practice the art of consensus-building and compromise. We need a long-term plan to responsibly reduce the federal budget deficit. We need to fix our broken immigration system and boost good-paying American energy jobs. And we need to look at constructive ways to improve the Affordable Care Act. As we get back to work, I will continue to push for the bipartisan solutions Coloradans support. Our country is strongest when we work together. Warm regards, Tags: e-newsletter",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=4756CB74-A6C7-E239-19F1-47974A38EDDB,Bennet Applauds Forest Service Action to Restart Timber and Stewardship Contracts,2013-10-17,2013,2013-10,Democrat,House,CO,Michael Bennet,B001267,www.bennet.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennetapplauded theForest Service'sdecisiontodayto reinstate timber sales and stewardship contracts on national forest landsfollowingthe reopening of the federal government.The decision comes on the heels of a letterBennet sentto Forest Service Chief Tom Tidwelltoday urging the immediatereinstatementofthese important tools.Colorado's timber industryis already in need of additional timber from federal lands to continue their operations, a situation exacerbated by the government shutdown. Stewardship contractingis a critical tool that allowstheForest Service to employ public-private partnerships to carry out projectsthatmaintain healthy forests and create employment and businessopportunities. Colorado is among the states with the most stewardship contracts underway. In the letter to Chief Tidwelltoday, Bennet wrote,""As you know, these sales and contracts are important economic drivers in rural communities. The treatments carried out through timber sales and stewardship contracts also contribute to the overall health of our national forests and helpguardagainst catastrophic wildfire and insect outbreaks."" ""Now that the shutdown is over, allowing purchasers and restorationprofessionalsto promptly get back to work in the woods should be a priority for the Forest Service; particularly when manyregionsare facing only a few short weeksbefore winter logging restrictions take effect."" AsChairman of the Subcommitteeon Forestry, Conservation, and Natural ResourcesBennet successfully fought to include the permanent reauthorization of stewardship contracting in the Senate version of the 2013 Farm Bill, which passed the Senate in June. Recently, Bennet was appointed to serve as a member of the Farm Bill Conference Committee which will work out the differences between the Senate and House passed versions of the bill. Full Text of the letter is below: October 17, 2013 Dear Chief Tidwell: Following the reopening of the federal government this morning, I write to request your swift action to reinstate suspended timber sales and stewardship contracts on national forest lands across the country. As you know, these sales and contracts are important economic drivers in rural communities. The treatments carried out through timber sales and stewardship contracts also contribute to the overall health of our national forests and help guard against catastrophic wildfire and insect outbreaks. Even before the shutdown, I heard from a variety of stakeholders in my home state of Colorado about the current lack of timber to supply local mills. This is why the Senate Agriculture Committee included a reauthorization of stewardship contracting authority in the Senate Farm Bill, and why securing that reauthorization is a top priority of mine as the Farm Bill conference committee convenes. After the October 1stshutdown, the chorus of concerns about the volume of timber coming off federal lands only grew louder. Now that the shutdown is over, allowing purchasers and restoration professionals to promptly get back to work in the woods should be a priority for the Forest Service; particularly when many regions are facing only a few short weeks before winter logging restrictions take effect. I urge you to move quickly to resume the work needed to keep our forests healthy and to keep the engines of our rural economies churning. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, Michael F. Bennet Member, Senate Committee of Agriculture Chairman, Subcommittee on Conservation, Forestry and Natural Resources",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://degette.house.gov/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1326:degette-statement-on-vote-to-reopen-government-and-avoid-default&catid=76:press-releases-&Itemid=227,DeGette Statement On Vote To Reopen Government And Avoid Default,2013-10-16,2013,2013-10,Democrat,House,CO,Diana DeGette,D000197,degette.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Diana DeGette, along with Senator Michael Bennet and Representatives Ed Perlmutter and Jared Polis, banded together with more than 200 members of Congress this week to file an Amicus Brief in the case Masterpiece Cakeshop v. Colorado Civil Rights Commission, which will be heard before the U.S. Supreme Court on December 5.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://perlmutter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=989,Perlmutter Votes to Put People Back to Work and Pay Our Bills,2013-10-16,2013,2013-10,Democrat,House,CO,Ed Perlmutter,P000593,perlmutter.house.gov,,,legacy,"Perlmutter Votes to Put People Back to Work and Pay Our Bills f t # e Washington, DC, October 16, 2013 Tonight Congressman Ed Perlmutter (CO-07) voted in favor of the bill to end the government shutdown, avoid default and authorize back pay for furloughed federal workers. Tonight I voted in favor of a bi-partisan bill to reopen the government, pay our bills and reinstate hard working Americans in their jobs. Though we could have avoided this crisis altogether by voting on this very measure 2 weeks ago, I am relieved it's happening now, said Perlmutter. Additionally, I hope we get to work immediately on finding a bi-partisan budget solution, something like a Simpson-Bowles plan which I support, in hopes of avoiding this type of crisis in the future. This measure also makes available critical emergency transportation funds for road and infrastructure recovery in areas devastated by the floods in Colorado.Rep. Perlmutter worked with members of the House and Senate delegation over the last month to pass legislation to help Colorado rebuild. ### f t # e",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=1735FDD2-BDAF-D131-5906-F43E1C5833C3,"Bennet Statement on Senate Vote to Reopen Government, Avoid Default",2013-10-16,2013,2013-10,Democrat,House,CO,Michael Bennet,B001267,www.bennet.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet issued the following statement today on the Senate's agreement to reopen the federal government and raise the debt-ceiling in order to avoid default. The measure includes a bill to raise a cap on the amount of emergency transportation funds Colorado can access to repair the state's flood-damaged roads, bridges and highways. The language in the deal mirrors legislation authored by Udall and Bennet that the U.S. Senate passed late last month in the wake of floods that destroyed roads and bridges along the Front Range and into the foothills. This ridiculous manufactured crisis was a kick in the teeth for Coloradans, especially those doing the hard work of trying to recover from floods and drought. Shutting down our government and threatening our full faith and credit to score political points is absurd. And we did all of this for a short-term budget deal that barely keeps the lights on. In spite of all the dysfunction, we were able to pull together to ensure that the agreement included access to much-needed emergency funding to help Colorado rebuild our roads and highways. If Washington does not get its act together, we will find ourselves in the same situation in a matter of months. It's why this town has earned its reputation as the Land of Flickering Lights.' What we really need, and what Coloradans have told me in countless town halls across the state, is a comprehensive, bipartisan budget plan that materially reduces the deficit and shows we're all in this together. That sort of solution should include making important reforms to our antiquated tax code. We need to stop posturing for political points and start solving the problems that Coloradans have asked us to, beginning with bipartisan work on fixing our immigration system, passing a Farm Bill, and constructing an energy policy for the 21st century.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=BE7C1161-0EEA-A15F-5779-1CBE1738E64B,"Bennet, Udall Negotiations Ensure Emergency Transportation Funding Included in Bipartisan Senate Deal to Avert Default",2013-10-16,2013,2013-10,Democrat,House,CO,Michael Bennet,B001267,www.bennet.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Following days of negotiations with U.S. Senate leaders, Michael Bennet and Mark Udall announced today that a proposal to raise a cap on the amount of emergency transportation funds Colorado can access to repair the state's flood-damaged roads, bridges and highways will be included in the Senate's bipartisan bill to avert a default and reopen the federal government. The language in the deal mirrors legislation authored by Udall and Bennet that the U.S. Senate passed late last month in the wake of floods that destroyed roads and bridges along the Front Range and into the foothills. However, the bill died after the U.S. House of Representatives failed to take it up. ""While Washington has been shut down, Coloradans have been working hard to rebuild and recover from last month's devastating floods that left a wake of destruction in our state,""Bennet said. ""Lifting this cap removes an important political roadblock, and will make available crucial resources we need to get people moving around the state again. Coloradans have been resilient and patient, but it's time to let us get to work so we can repair and reopen key access routes to communities affected by the floods."" ""Colorado has shown our nation that we are better when we stand united to confront natural disasters and rebuild better, stronger and smarter than before. I am proud the Republican and Democratic leaders of the U.S. Senate agreed to include this language in the bipartisan deal making its way through the chamber now,"" Udall said. ""Colorado cannot wait any longer for this arbitrary cap to be lifted, for Congress to avert a government default or for this partisan government shutdown to end. This is a welcome development for the Centennial State, and I am proud to have been able to shepherd this critical relief through Congress."" Current law restricts access to a large portion of emergency road funds administered by the U.S. Federal Highway Administration to $100 million per disaster. The governor and the Colorado Department of Transportation have estimated that the damage resulting from the recent historic flooding will far exceed the current cap. The legislation lifts the cap to $450 million, sufficient to cover the extensive repair work. Bennet, Udall, and Colorado's members of the U.S. House of Representatives have worked since the flooding began to ensure Colorado communities and agencies have every federal resource they need to save lives, protect homes and start the recovery process. Bennet and Udall led a recent delegation effort to urge the House and Senate Appropriations Committees to make crucial resources available to help Colorado recover from the recent historic floods.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=6B8DFC3E-5759-C8FF-7A3F-D38A0611B28B,Bennet Statement on Farm Bill Conference,2013-10-15,2013,2013-10,Democrat,House,CO,Michael Bennet,B001267,www.bennet.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet, a member of the Senate's Agriculture Committee and a member of the Farm Bill Conference Committee, issued the following statement now that the House of Representatives has appointed members to the Farm Bill Conference Committee: Our state's producers and rural communities are hurting right now because Washington isn't providing the much-needed certainty and reform that comes with a full, five-year reauthorization of the Farm Bill. The Senate bill was written with significant input from Coloradans and passed with broad bipartisan support. It includes crucial reforms that consolidate and strengthen programs so they work better for our farmers. Now that the House of Representatives has finally appointed its members to the Conference Committee, we need to work across the aisle and across chambers to produce a final comprehensive, bipartisan bill. We're ready to get to work. Bennet was selected to be a member of the Farm Bill Conference Committee in early August. The Farm Bill Conference Committee will work out the differences between the Senate- and House-passed versions of the Farm Bill. As a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, Bennet helped write the bipartisan Farm Bill that passed the Senate in June.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://perlmutter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=988,Perlmutter to Hold Video Meetings with Constituents,2013-10-11,2013,2013-10,Democrat,House,CO,Ed Perlmutter,P000593,perlmutter.house.gov,,,legacy,"Perlmutter to Hold Video Meetings with Constituents f t # e Washington, DC, October 11, 2013 Lakewood, CO --Congressman Perlmutter (CO-07) announced today he will hold video meetings with constituents about the government shutdown and other important issues. Due to the current government shutdown and the weekend vote schedule Congressman Perlmutter has invited constituents to come to his Lakewood office on Saturday, October 12 in order to meet with him using a videoconference system. The details are as follows: Congressman Perlmutter Office Hours Date: Saturday, October 12, 2013 Time: 10:00AM to Noon Location: Congressman Perlmutter's District Office 12600 W. Colfax Avenue STE B-400 - Lakewood, CO 80215 For questions or to RSVP please call the Lakewood office at (303) 274-7944. ### f t # e",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://polis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=355393,Polis Applauds the Reopening of Rocky Mountain National Park,2013-10-11,2013,2013-10,Democrat,House,CO,Jared Polis,P000598,polis.house.gov,,,legacy,"Polis Applauds the Reopening of Rocky Mountain National Park f t # e Washington, October 11, 2013 Today, Congressman Jared Polis released the following statement about the reopening of Rocky Mountain National Park: “I applaud the reopening of Rocky Mountain National Park. We’ve been through a lot in Estes Park these past weeks. The closing of Rocky Mountain National Park, on top of the already devastating impact of the recent flood, came at the worst possible time and has been wreaking havoc on our local economy. The recent flood reduced visitation at the height of the tourist season, and the closing of Rocky Mountain National Park further decimated the tourist industries. We have been working closely with the administration to reopen to Park and are thrilled that we can now emphasize that with our major tourist attraction operational, Estes Park is open for business."" Let me be clear. Although the reopening of Rocky Mountain National Park is something to celebrate, it is a temporary measure, not a long-term solution. Ultimately, we need to end the government shutdown. But until that happens, I will continue to work to ensure that the Park remain open so the many jobs in Estes Park, which revolve around tourism and Rocky Mountain National Park, are safe.” f t # e",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z