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://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/e-newsletters/congressman-hank-johnsons-e-newsletter-dec-16-2016,"Congressman Hank Johnson's E-Newsletter for Dec. 16, 2016",2016-12-16,2016,2016-12,Democrat,House,GA,Hank Johnson,J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,,,legacy,"I want to wish you and your family a Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Happy Kwanzaa and a Happy New Year. May the gift of love, peace and happiness be yours this season. It’s been a busy month since Thanksgiving, and I want let you know what I’ve been working on in Congress.   RUSSIAN HACKING: All Americans should be deeply concerned by the reports that Russian agencies interfered with the U.S. election. As Speaker Ryan noted, ‘any foreign intervention in our elections is entirely unacceptable.’ Although both Senate and House committees will conduct investigations, perhaps the best option is an independent inquiry -- on the model of the 9/11 Commission. For my statement on this issue, click HERE. EXCESSIVE SURVEILLANCE: This month, I called on the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to take swift action to address the disproportionate use of surveillance technology against low-income and minority communities. Recent reports have shown that police departments are reportedly using surveillance technology with greater frequency against people exercising their First Amendment rights, specifically people of color. To read my letter, click HERE. STANDING ROCK: While I was pleased the Army Corps of Engineers denied a permit for the construction of a key section of the Dakota Access Pipeline earlier this month, what concerned me most was the militarized response by the North Dakota police, who confronted peaceful protesters using armored vehicles, automatic rifles, sound cannons, concussion grenades, and other offensive military weapons and equipment. For my full statement, click HERE. ONLINE DISCRIMINATION: As Ranking Member of the House Judiciary Subcommittee on Regulatory Reform, Commercial and Antitrust Law (RRCAL), which exercises jurisdiction over antitrust laws and competition, I sent a letter to Airbnb’s CEO this week urging the short-term rental company to reconsider its use of pre-dispute, forced arbitration clauses and class-action waivers in the “terms of service” agreements of their contracts. Airbnb is a peer-to-peer online marketplace homestay network that enables people to list or rent short-term lodging in residential properties with the cost of such accommodations set by the property owner. For more, click HERE. Lastly, I want to send condolences to the family of Officer Nicholas Smarr of the Americus Police Department and Georgia Southwestern Police Officer Jody Smith, who were shot and killed last week while responding to a call. Police officers put their lives on the line every day for our community. As President Obama said, “nothing justifies attacks on law enforcement.” We must all work together to stop senseless shootings in Georgia and across the nation. FOR YOUR/MORE INFORMATION:   Housing Help | Jobs Center | Healthcare | Small Businesses Seniors | Students | Veterans | Help with a Federal Agency | Zika Prevention | Opioid Resource Guide   As always, I appreciate your time and feedback. Please remember you can reach me on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and now on Tumblr as well as e-mails, phone calls and letters. Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to represent you in Congress and please have a safe and Happy Holidays. I look forward to being sworn in Jan. 3, 2017 to continue serving you and your family in the 115th Congress.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/editorials/we-need-swing-voters-not-swing-states,"We Need Swing Voters, Not Swing States",2016-12-16,2016,2016-12,Democrat,House,GA,Hank Johnson,J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Yesterday, House Judiciary Democrats convened a forum on “The Electoral College and the Future of American Democracy.” It has been nearly twenty years since the last hearing on this topic in 1997, and much has happened since then.  [Watch the forum on CSPAN] As we all know, in 2000, Al Gore narrowly won the popular vote but lost the election to George W. Bush. This year, Hillary Clinton lost the election despite winning the national popular vote by a record of more than 2.6 million votes. But these aren’t the only times in American history that this has happened: on five occasions since 1824, the winner of the popular vote has lost the election. It is abundantly clear by now that the Electoral College is fundamentally antiquated, broken, and antidemocratic. The Supreme Court has long held that the “conception of political equality from the Declaration of Independence, to Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address, to the Fifteenth, Seventeenth, and Nineteenth Amendments can mean only one thing—one person, one vote.” The Equal Protection Clause of the Constitution likewise guarantees that all voters may equally participate in elections and that diluting votes based on a voter’s residence “impairs basic constitutional rights under the Fourteenth Amendment just as much as invidious discriminations based upon factors such as race,” as the Supreme Court held in 1964. And during the Constitutional Convention of 1787, James Madison powerfully argued that if “power is not immediately derived from the people in proportion to their numbers, we may make a paper confederacy, but that will be all.” By removing the power of voters to directly elect the President, the Electoral College is an affront to this fundamental principle of direct representation. In addition to undermining the will of the people, the Electoral College has also deviated from the Framers’ intent in significant ways. The Framers did not anticipate that candidates for President and Vice President would run on the same ticket, nor did they intend the electoral process to produce an electoral majority. Perhaps most importantly, the Framers intended that electors would be “free agents” to exercise independent and nonpartisan discretion in electing the president. Today, this independence would be widely decried as faithless and undemocratic. The United States stands alone as the only presidential republic that does not directly elect its president. It’s time to change that. As the Ranking Member of the Judiciary Subcommittee with jurisdiction over interstate compacts, I strongly support the progress made by the states toward a direct popular election through the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact. Under this initiative, states that join the compact pledge their electoral votes to the winner of the national popular vote. While this compact will not take effect until enacted into law by states possessing 270 electoral votes and upon Congress’s approval, it has already been signed into law in 11 states with 165 electoral college votes. It is clear that change is long overdue and that this issue should not be partisan. Americans did not directly elect U.S. Senators for the first 125 years of our democracy, and yet in 1913, the 17th Amendment was ratified to provide for the direct election of U.S. Senators. There have also been over 700 proposed amendments to abolish or modify the Electoral College, and on several occasions, such measures have passed either the House or the Senate. Furthermore, every state directly elects its U.S. Representatives and Senators, state legislators, and governor. The President of the United States should be no different.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/dem-pushes-airbnb-protect-users-right-sue,Dem pushes Airbnb to protect users' right to sue,2016-12-16,2016,2016-12,Democrat,House,GA,Hank Johnson,J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,,,legacy,A House Democrat is calling on Airbnb to stop using forced arbitration clauses in its contracts with customers.,1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/rep-johnson-urges-protections-excessive-surveillance-low-income-and,Rep. Johnson urges protections from excessive surveillance for low-income and minority communities,2016-12-16,2016,2016-12,Democrat,House,GA,Hank Johnson,J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,,,legacy,"On Wednesday, Dec. 7, Rep. Hank Johnson (GA-04), ranking member of the House Judiciary Subcommittee on Regulatory Reform, Commercial and Antitrust Law which exercises jurisdiction over antitrust laws and competition, called on the Federal Communications Commission to take swift action to address the disproportionate use of surveillance technology against low-income and minority communities.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/speeches/dekalb-county-veterans-day-program-friday-4-november-2016,"DeKalb County Veterans Day Program, Friday, 4 November 2016",2016-12-16,2016,2016-12,Democrat,House,GA,Hank Johnson,J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,,,legacy,"DeKalb County Veterans Day Program, Friday, 4 November 2016, 11 AM  Thank you Lee for that kind introduction, and thank you to the DeKalb Veterans Advisory Board for inviting me here this morning. Congratulations to our esteemed honoree today – Major General Maria Britt U.S. Army Retired. I look forward to your thoughts and hearing from all our speakers. Today is a special day – or technically next Friday is a hallowed day – when we honored those who served. This year’s theme is “Honoring Those Who Served: Excellence.” I can’t think of a more succinct, to-the-point title. Whether they fought at Normandy or Falluja, Mogadishu or Helmand, in the Persian Gulf or in the Tet Offensive or simply provided support here at home, our veterans represent the very best men and women who have served our country in battle. On this Veterans Day, we express our deepest gratitude and thanks. Your sacrifices have been the foundation of more than 240 years of American progress. Your legacy confirms that no matter what confronts us or what adversity we face, there is no challenge we cannot overcome together, and because of your sacrifice and commitment our best days as a nation lie ahead. Our men and women in uniform teach us duty, strength, enterprise, passion and dedication – the bedrock of a commitment to safeguard and shield – that has kept our nation secure for more than two centuries. In war and in peace, your service has been selfless and your accomplishments have been singular. As a grateful nation, it is our solemn duty to make that transition possible -- to ensure our returning heroes can share in the opportunities they have fought so hard to protect. The freedoms we hold dear exist and persist because of your commitment, and our nation must work much harder to honor our veterans by fulfilling our promise to them and upholding the sacred bond we share with all Americans’ veterans. On this Veterans Day celebration in DeKalb, we are called to commemorate the boundless burdens that have been endured by so few. We honor our wounded warriors, our missing in action, our fallen, and their families -- men and women who have borne the ultimate costs of war and deserve our deepest respect, not just today but forever. We must redouble our commitments to our service members and we must honor their sacrifice not only on Veterans Day, but every single day. When our troops finish their tours of duty, let’s make sure they come home to an America that grants them the benefits they have earned, offers them the care they deserve, and helps them to fulfill their potential to keep their families strong and our country moving forward. Not a day goes by in my office without one of our constituent representatives speaking with a veteran who is dealing with a housing, health, employment or compensation issue. To all the Veterans, please know that it is an honor to serve you – you have served us so well – and now we must serve you. There’s not much in Congress we do that’s more important than serving our veterans. As a member of the House Armed Services Committee since 2007, every day I’m inspired to work on behalf of all our military personnel and veterans. Ensuring that quality services are being delivered to each of you is one of my greatest joys as a public servant. I thank each of you for your service and can assure you that as long as I am in Congress, your needs will remain a priority for me and my staff. I authored an amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act to bring greater awareness to Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), a severe anxiety disorder often associated with combat trauma. The last decades of the war in Iraq and Afghanistan has taken a toll on our service men and women, who have been stretched to the breaking point. Far too many are coming home with PTSD. We must do more to educate service members, veterans, military families and the public about PTSD and to coordinate efforts across the federal government to promote prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. We must remove the stigma surrounding PTSD. Our soldiers should never be afraid to ask for help. My promise and pledge today is to continue that important work on the Armed Services committee, where we can often forge bi-partisan agreements that are so elusive these days in Washington. Veterans Day is a solemn holiday and a great opportunity for us to make it clear, we appreciate the service and sacrifice of our military and their families.  It is a day – in contrast with Memorial Day – to pause and remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice and to say a heartfelt thank you to those who are still with us.  Your service is noble and in the best traditions of our nation. Putting service before self, you have made our country strong.  You make us all proud. So I end today with the simple, but heartfelt words that we cannot say often enough….…THANK YOU for your service.  Thank you for your sacrifice and thank you for being great Americans. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20170112004814/https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/community-toolkit-combat-opioid-addiction-created-through-bipartisan-effort,Community toolkit to combat opioid addiction created through bipartisan effort,2016-12-16,2016,2016-12,Democrat,House,GA,Hank Johnson,J000288,web.archive.org,,,legacy,DeKalb residents and those throughout Georgia struggling with opioid addiction or who know someone who is now have an online toolkit of resources to help in the journey to recovery.,1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-johnson-urges-airbnb-reconsider-anti-consumer-forced-pre-dispute,Rep. Johnson urges Airbnb to reconsider anti-consumer forced pre-dispute arbitration clauses,2016-12-13,2016,2016-12,Democrat,House,GA,Hank Johnson,J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Hank Johnson (GA-04), Ranking Member of the House Judiciary Subcommittee on Regulatory Reform, Commercial and Antitrust Law (RRCAL), which exercises jurisdiction over antitrust laws and competition, sent a letter to Airbnb’s CEO urging the short-term rental company to reconsider its use of pre-dispute, forced arbitration clauses and class-action waivers in their “terms of service” agreements in their contracts. Airbnb came under fire this year after a Harvard University study determined that hosts using the site to rent properties are discriminating against consumers based upon race, age and gender. Despite the company’s attempts to address discrimination within the platform, Airbnb’s use of forced arbitration clauses prevents victims of discrimination from getting their day in court. “These (arbitration) clauses operate to deprive consumers of their day in court, so that when companies clearly violate the law consumers are still unable to seek redress in public courts of law,” wrote Johnson, author of H.R. 2087, The Arbitration Fairness Act that would eliminate forced arbitration clauses in employment, consumer, and civil rights cases. “While Airbnb has made strong, laudable commitments to prevent and address discrimination in all facets of Airbnb’s platform, more work needs to be done to end all discrimination and bias in the system. As the Ranking Member of the House Judiciary Subcommittee on Regulatory Reform, Commercial and Antitrust Law, which exercises jurisdiction over this issue, I look forward to working with Airbnb and other companies on this matter.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://johnlewis.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-john-lewiss-cost-war-bill-included-defense-authorization,Rep. John Lewis's Cost of War Bill Included in Defense Authorization,2016-12-13,2016,2016-12,Democrat,House,GA,John Lewis,L000287,johnlewis.house.gov,,,legacy,"As the cost of war skyrockets and its contribution to the federal deficit continues to increase, it is important that Americans fully understand where their tax dollars are spent and how they are spent.  This accounting is especially important as cuts are proposed to important safety net programs like Medicare and Social Security, as well as to services for the unemployed, elderly, women, families and children.              The Cost of War Act helps inform the discourse around these proposed cuts by calculating, unequivocally, the exact price tag of these ongoing conflicts to each American.  It requires the Department of Defense to work with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to calculate and post the cost of war for each American taxpayer in Iraq, Afghanistan, and now Syria on their websites.   Article I of the U.S. Constitution does mandate Congress to publish the exact expenditures of all accounts.             ""Every American has a right to know how their tax dollars are being spent,"" said Rep. John Lewis.  ""A variety of accounting methods are used to make it harder for Americans to comprehend  how many billions, and even trillions of federal dollars are used to support these international conflicts, meanwhile services they may need to survive are placed on the chopping block due to the claim that our nation cannot afford them.  A budget is a statement of values, and the people have a right to know whether the priorities of their government meet their expectations.  This is a simple request, and I think that's why it appeals to my colleagues on both sides of the aisle.""             On May 15, 2015, Congressman Lewis reintroduced H.R. 2376, the Cost of War Act.  This legislation was adopted as an amendment to the National Defense Authorization Acts in 2013, 2014, and most recently on May 18, 2016.  It has been passed now by both the House and Senate, and is awaiting signature by President Barack Obama.  In October 2011, Congressman John Lewis (D-GA) first introduced the Cost of War Act as a tribute to Mahatma Gandhi on his 142nd birthday.            114th Congress Cost of War Act Factsheet 2016.pdf                                                                              ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://johnlewis.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmett-till-unsolved-civil-rights-crimes-reauthorization-act-passed,Emmett Till Unsolved Civil Rights Crimes Reauthorization Act Passed by Congress,2016-12-12,2016,2016-12,Democrat,House,GA,John Lewis,L000287,johnlewis.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON-- On Saturday December 10th in its final session of the 114th Congress, the Senate passed the Emmett Till Unsolved Civil Rights Crimes Reauthorization Act of 2016 (S.2854/H.R.5067).  In the Senate the bill was led by Sen. Richard Burr (R-NC), Sen. Patrick Leahy (D-VT),  Sen. Claire McCaskill (D-MO), and Sen. Roy Blunt (R-MO).  In the House, original sponsors were Rep. John Lewis (D-GA), Rep. Jim Sensenbrenner (R-WI), and Rep. John Conyers, Jr. (D-MI).   BACKGROUND Before the passage of major civil rights legislation in the 1960s, hundreds of racially suspicious crimes were committed in this country, and few attempts to prosecute them were ever pursued.  Tuskegee Institute once kept a record of verified lynchings in the United States from 1877 to 1950.  The institute documented that nearly 4000 mainly unprosecuted civil rights crimes occurred during that period.  Many American families continue to pass down stories of loss and disappearance even today without knowing the truth about what actually happened to their loved ones.     PRIMARY GOALS OF THE BILL The Emmett Till Unsolved Civil Rights Crimes Reauthorization Act represents a critical opportunity to right these wrongs committed, primarily against African Americans, but also against people of diverse backgrounds.  In some cases, individuals still remain who were witnesses to these crimes or who can help provide evidence regarding these incidents.  This bill reauthorizes and updates the original legislation that was signed into law in 2008.  It seeks to respond to the concerns of victims' family members and strengthen collaboration between the Justice Department, the FBI, State and local law enforcement, and advocates to pursue these cold cases.  There is a collective goal to seek the truth about this long-standing tragedies and hold the perpetrators and orchestrators of these atrocities accountable.   This reauthorization also seeks to respond to the concerns of advocates regarding the implementation of the original legislation.     BI-PARTISAN and BI-CAMERAL STATEMENTS OF SUPPORT ""When this bill was signed into law, family members, academics, historians, lawyers, advocates began working to develop a full accounting for these long-standing, gross human and civil rights atrocities.  The reauthorization passed by Congress is a response to their appeals to make the law a better tool in their quest for justice. We also worked across the aisle and across the Dome to develop a bill that fulfills our promise to remain committed to the pursuit of truth on behalf of victims and their families.  I am very pleased that Congress has passed this legislation and I look forward to the signature of President Barack Obama.""  Rep. John Lewis - GA   “I am pleased that this bill is now finally heading to the President’s desk. Investigators can now work to discover the truth and to seek justice under our legal system for the families of these victims. Every American is worthy of the protection of our laws. I want to thank the Till family, Alvin Sykes, Congressman John Lewis, and all of the civil rights activists who helped make this law a reality. Today’s victory is theirs.”  Sen. Richard Burr - NC     “Too many families suffer from the unsolved murders of their loved ones during the civil rights era without receiving justice.  The way to best serve these families is to provide our Federal government with the tools it needs to investigate these unsolved crimes, and to hopefully, bring some sense of closure for these families.  I thank Congressman Lewis for his tireless work on behalf of the families of these victims of unsolved murders from the civil rights era and I am proud to stand with him on this effort.”   Sen. Patrick Leahy - VT   “This legislation brings justice and closure to the families and communities affected by the heinous acts of violence and hatred that are a stain on our nation’s history. The bill will help us continue the critical work of better investigating and solving these crimes, no matter how long ago they occurred, and I’m thrilled we’ve finally been able to carry it across the finish line.” Sen. Claire McCaskill - MO   “The Emmett Till Unsolved Civil Rights Crimes Reauthorization Act sets out to investigate racially-motivated murders. Sadly, there is still more work to be done and it’s important that we reauthorize this bill so that the FBI and DOJ can continue investigating unsolved crimes.”    Sen. Roy Blunt - MO   “As an original cosponsor of the Emmett Till Reauthorization Act, I’m pleased to see my colleagues came together and supported this important bill. This bipartisan legislation will provide for a sustained, well-coordinated effort to investigate and prosecute unsolved civil rights-era crimes. There are hundreds of cold cases from the civil rights era that have never been solved and it is my hope that we are able to bring justice to the victims’ families.”  Rep. Jim Sensenbrenner - WI   ""As we work to address current questions about racial violence and civil rights, we should be mindful of our history and why so many in the African-American community raise the issue of whether black lives matter.  Passage of the original Emmett Till Act represented a commitment  to resolving the unanswered questions from one of the darkest periods in modern American history.  This bipartisan reauthorization represents a further investment in our history and will allow the Department of Justice to resolve remaining issues.""  Rep. John Conyers, Jr.  - MI     MAJOR PROVISIONS OF THE LEGISLATION   This bill requires the Department of Justice and FBI to consult with civil rights organizations, universities, and other entities that have also been gathering evidence in these cold cases;   Provides clearer direction and improved coordination between federal, state, and local law enforcement and the activists, advocates, and academics working on these issues;   Strengthens the Department of Justice’s reporting requirements;   Expands the time span of cases to be considered by ten years, to include all cases that occurred not later than December 31, 1979;   Eliminates the sunset provision in the original bill;   Encourages the Department of Justice to review specific closed cases that warrant further investigation;    Maintains the previous investigation structure and funding levels; and   Clarifies the law’s intent.                                                                       ####",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-supports-passage-of-legislation-to-fund-the,"CONGRESSMAN BISHOP SUPPORTS PASSAGE OF LEGISLATION TO FUND THE GOVERNMENT AND ASSIST FLINT, MICHIGAN",2016-12-08,2016,2016-12,Democrat,House,GA,Sanford Bishop,B000490,bishop.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) voted in support of H.R. 2028, a short-term measure to fund the federal government through April 28, 2017. Congressman Bishop also voted in support of S. 612, legislation to address the water crisis in Flint, Michigan and to provide financial support for water infrastructure projects across the country. “I am pleased to see that the water contamination crisis in Flint, Michigan is going to be addressed through the Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation Act and the Continuing Resolution,” said Congressman Bishop. “The passage of these pieces of legislation will work to make sure these kinds of crises do not happen in future, as well as fund critical water infrastructure projects to benefit both rural and urban areas of the United States.” The government funding legislation, officially referred to as a Continuing Resolution (CR) (H.R. 2028), passed the House of Representatives by a vote of 326 to 96. The water infrastructure legislation, officially entitled the Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation Act (WIIN Act) (S. 612), passed by a vote of 360 to 61. The CR will fund the government at largely current levels through April 28, 2017. However, the legislation provides an additional $5.8 billion for defense-related Overseas Contingency Operations (OCO), of which $5.1 billion is dedicated to supporting counterterrorism operations, including efforts to defeat ISIL. Another $4.3 billion in OCO funding is provided for non-defense priorities, including Embassy Security, Economic and Stabilization Assistance, Humanitarian Assistance, Security Assistance, and general State Department and USAID operations. Additionally, the CR, in conjunction with an authorization included in the WIIN Act, provides a $100 million appropriation for capitalization grants to Flint, Michigan in order to address lead contaminants and repair service lines and water infrastructure. The legislation also appropriates $4 billion in emergency funding for hurricane damage in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Florida, as well as flood damage in Texas, Louisiana, and West Virginia. Further, the CR appropriates funding for the recently enacted 21st Century Cures Act. The WIIN Act, in addition to authorizing funding for Flint, Michigan, provides an authorization of over $10 billion for water resources development projects that will be carried out by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to address critical water infrastructure projects throughout the United States. Additional information on the CR can be found here, and additional information on the WIIN Act can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/bishop-statement-on-officer-shooting-in-americus,BISHOP STATEMENT ON OFFICER SHOOTING IN AMERICUS,2016-12-07,2016,2016-12,Democrat,House,GA,Sanford Bishop,B000490,bishop.house.gov,,,legacy,"AMERICUS, GA – Today, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) released the following statement regarding the shooting in Americus, GA: “This morning in Americus, two law enforcement officers were shot by a gunman near Georgia Southwestern University, which was put on lockdown. One of these officers did not survive his wounds, while the other remains in critical condition. The gunman has been identified and multiple law enforcement agencies are coordinating in an effort to find him and bring him into custody. “We must never forget the sacrifices of our first responders and their families. My condolences go out to the families of the officers, and I pray for the full recovery of the injured. I also pray for a swift resolution to this manhunt, and I have full confidence in the law enforcement agencies searching for the shooter.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-johnson-urges-fcc-protect-low-income-minority-communities-excessive,Rep. Johnson urges FCC to protect low-income & minority communities from excessive surveillance by law enforcement,2016-12-07,2016,2016-12,Democrat,House,GA,Hank Johnson,J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Hank Johnson (GA-04), ranking member of the House Judiciary Subcommittee on Regulatory Reform, Commercial and Antitrust Law (RRCAL), which exercises jurisdiction over antitrust laws and competition, called on the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to take swift action to address the disproportionate use of surveillance technology against low-income and minority communities. “Such targeted use is deeply troubling to all of those who value the principle that the law should be enforced fairly and indiscriminately,” wrote Johnson. “All Americans should be able to exercise their constitutional rights to assemble and to free speech. The color of one’s skin should in no way determine the treatment one receives from law enforcement. It is up to Congress to ensure that every community is protected in an equitable fashion.” Specifically, Johnson’s letter addresses law enforcement agencies’ use of cell-site simulators (“CS simulators”) – surveillance technology that operates over cellular networks that fall squarely within the FCC’s jurisdiction. Recent reports have shown that police departments are reportedly using surveillance technology with greater frequency against people exercising their First Amendment rights, specifically people of color. Disturbingly, increased surveillance technology has been reported at protests against police brutality and racial injustice. In addition, the FBI has disclosed before Congress that it flew surveillance aircraft over Ferguson and Baltimore during the protests following the police killings of Michael Brown and Freddie Gray. “Today’s letter to the FCC, led by Rep. Hank Johnson, is the type of political leadership we need — now more than ever — to ensure the agency quickly acts on Color Of Change’s complaint about the frequent use of Stingray devices in communities of color,” said Color Of Change Campaign Director, Brandi Collins. Color of Change is the nation’s largest online racial justice organization with more than 1.2 million members nationwide. “This invasive technology is being used to by police in Baltimore and elsewhere to target, arrest and over prosecute Black and brown people on low-level, non-violent offenses,” Collins said. “Before an incoming administration bent on denying our most fundamental freedoms gains control of these tools for mass surveillance, we hope the FCC will hear the urging of Rep. Johnson and his House colleagues to end the warrantless use of Stingrays.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-hank-johnson-s-statement-corps-halting-dakota-pipeline,Congressman Hank Johnsons Statement on Corps Halting Dakota Pipeline,2016-12-05,2016,2016-12,Democrat,House,GA,Hank Johnson,J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) released the following statement after the Army Corps of Engineers denied a permit for the construction of a key section of the Dakota Access Pipeline, granting a major victory to protesters who have been demonstrating for months. Mr. Johnson sent Defense Secretary Ash Carter a letter Dec. 2 urging the Department of Defense (DOD) to demilitarize the North Dakota police, who have been confronting peaceful protesters using armored vehicles, automatic rifles, sound cannons, concussion grenades, and other offensive military weapons and equipment: “While suspension of the permit is a victory for the Standing Rock Sioux Reservation and testament to our commitment to protecting the environment and clean drinking water for all Americans, I am still very concerned about the overly militarized response by law enforcement to the Water Protectors and that the president-elect’s business empire has direct links to the corporations behind the pipeline,” said Johnson. Johnson’s letter to Carter requests that the DOD demand the return of more than $3 million in surplus military weapons from North Dakota law enforcement agencies that acquired the equipment through the Pentagon’s 1033 Program (also known as the Defense Department’s Excess Personal Property Program), which has transferred more than $5 billion in military hardware from the Department of Defense to local American law enforcement agencies since 1997.  As author of the Stop Militarizing Law Enforcement Act, Rep. Johnson is a national leader in the demilitarization of state and local law enforcement. “We must remain extra vigilant to protect American citizens’ right to peaceably assemble,” Johnson said in his letter signed by 13 House colleagues. “By removing military equipment from local and state enforcement responding to the DAPL protest, the DOD would reaffirm our government’s commitment to these founding ideals and help de-escalate an increasingly volatile situation.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://davidscott.house.gov/blog/?postid=397793,Land-grant HBCUs Seeking Aid from Congress,2016-12-04,2016,2016-12,Democrat,House,GA,David Scott,S001157,davidscott.house.gov,,,legacy,"Diverse Issues in Higher Education, December 4, 2016 Land-grant HBCUs Seeking Aid from Congress --- by Reginald Stuart The nation’s 19 historically Black land-grant colleges (the so-called 1890 HBCUs), are expected this week to have a Congressional hearing on a plan to specifically strengthen the institutions’ financial abilities to provide formal education to minorities and others pursuing studies in the agricultural sciences. The full House Committee, chaired by Rep. Mike Conaway, R-Texas, plans to hear Wednesday morning from two panels — one of lawmakers and one of university presidents — about a House resolution (6020) that would provide each of the 19 institutions $1 million a year for five years to fund scholarships for students planning to pursue careers in the field of agriculture. The scholarship funds proposal by Rep. David Scott, D-Ga., represent what Scott notes is a “drop in the bucket” from the billions spent annually by the federal government to help higher education. Still, he says, there is positive action on the proposal for a variety of reasons. It would come at a crucial time in history, as the ranks of the nation’s agricultural farming and producer population are declining rapidly. The average age of the declining ranks — 60 years old, according to federal population studies — is getting higher and higher. Scott’s proposal also would give a needed boost to the 1890 colleges, a specific group of public colleges created to fulfill a post-Civil War effort by the government to provide agricultural education training and services to Blacks in 19 states. The 1890s have never been funded to address their mission on a comparable basis to their historically White counterparts regardless of the potential size of their target population, federal, state and private research reports say. The federal and state funding policies and practices are oft times cited as playing an important role in the demise during the last century of Black farms and Blacks in agriculture. Until the 1950s, Blacks were legally barred from attending the historically White land-grant colleges in those states.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/bishop-applauds-house-passage-of-21st-century-cures-act,BISHOP APPLAUDS HOUSE PASSAGE OF 21ST CENTURY CURES ACT,2016-12-02,2016,2016-12,Democrat,House,GA,Sanford Bishop,B000490,bishop.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) voted in support of H.R. 34, the 21st Century Cures Act, which passed the House of Representatives by a roll call vote of 392-26 on Wednesday. This bipartisan legislation provides $6.3 billion over 10 years to fund innovative research at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), modernize the Federal Drug Administration (FDA), and help prevent and treat opioid addiction. ""This legislation represents a major bipartisan effort to enhance our country's medical research capabilities and find cures for cancer and other devastating conditions,” said Congressman Bishop. ""Further, it recognizes the importance of treating opioid addiction as the national health issue it is, and will provide impacted communities, families, and individuals the necessary resources to treat this threat."" The legislation provides $4.8 billion to fund three major biomedical research priorities. This includes the Precision Medicine Initiative, the Brain Research through Advancing Innovative Neurotechnologies Initiative (BRAIN Initiative), and the Cancer Moonshot, an initiative by Vice President Joe Biden to find a cure for cancer. The 21st Century Cures Act also allocates $1 billion combat the prescription opioid epidemic by improving monitoring programs for prescription drugs, enhancing access to treatment and recovery programs, and training mental health care providers. Finally, the 21st Century Cures Act addresses innovation and modernization within the FDA and provides $500 million over the next 10 years to streamline access to necessary drugs and medical devices. The legislation has now been sent to the Senate for further consideration. For more information on H.R. 34, or to track its progress, please click here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://davidscott.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=397792,House Committee to Hold Hearing on Scott Legislation to Provide $19 Million for 1890s Land-Grant University Student Scholarships,2016-12-01,2016,2016-12,Democrat,House,GA,David Scott,S001157,davidscott.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today Congressman David Scott (GA-13) and Thurgood Marshall College Fund President & CEO Johnny C. Taylor, Jr. issued the following statements upon the announcement of the House Committee on Agriculture hearing on Scott’s bipartisan bill H.R. 6020, the Funding for Student Scholarships for the 1890 Land-Grant African-American Colleges and Universities Act.  “There is a tremendous need to increase the number of young African-Americans seeking careers in agriculture,” said Congressman Scott. “And there is a tremendous crisis in this country given the average age of farmers in the United States is 60 years of age and continues to rise. H.R. 6020 will expand the permitted uses of federal funds awarded to 1890s-universities from research, education and extension to also include scholarship grants.  This bill will award $1 million in grant funding to each of the 19 public land-grant universities for scholarships to help African-American students who commit to pursuing careers in agriculture and help tackle the national crisis posed by the aging farmer and producer population in the United States.”  “The Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) is pleased to endorse and advocate for H.R. 6020” said Mr. Johnny C. Taylor, Jr. “TMCF appreciates Congressman David Scott (D-GA) for his leadership and work to secure much needed funding to support 1890s – HBCU Land Grant Institutions as well as students pursuing careers in the agribusiness sector and related sciences.  Careers in the agricultural sciences are part of our nation’s overall STEM workforce and are truly needed.  We are committed to working with Congressman Scott and other members to move this bill in the 115th Congress and applaud Chairman Mike Conaway (R-TX) for supporting the upcoming hearing on H.R. 6020.”WHAT:  Committee on Agriculture Hearing entitled “1890 Land-Grant Institutions: Recruitment Challenges and Scholarship Opportunities.” The Committee hearing will feature two panels.  For the first panel, Congressman Scott along with Representatives Kevin Cramer (R-ND) and Emanuel Cleaver (D-MO), both original co-sponsors of H.R. 6020, will address the Committee. The second panel will include statements from the following three 1890s-university presidents: Dr. Cynthia Hammond, Central University; Dr. Paul Jones, Fort Valley State University; and Dr. Juliette Bell, University of Maryland Eastern Shore. The presidents will address the challenges their institutions have faced in recruiting African-American students to agricultural careers.WHEN:  Wednesday, December 7, 10:00 a.m. WHERE:  1300 Longworth House Office Building Background: Cosponsors of H.R. 6020 include: Rep. Kevin Cramer [R-ND]; Rep. Marcia Fudge [D-OH]; Rep. Brad Ashford [D-NE]; Rep. Mia Love [R-UT]; Rep. Gwen Graham [D-FL]; Rep. Alma Adams [D-NC]; Rep. Pete Sessions [R-TX and Chair of the House Rules Committee]; Rep. Emanuel Cleaver [D-MO]; Rep. Bobby Scott [D-VA]; Rep. Mark Takano [D-CA]; and Rep. Tim Ryan [D-OH].The nineteen 1890s Land-Grant universities are: Alabama A&M University; Alcorn State University; Central State University; Delaware State University; Florida A&M University; Fort Valley State University; Kentucky State University; Langston University; Lincoln University; North Carolina A&T State University; Prairie View A&M University; South Carolina State University; Southern University System; Tennessee State University; Tuskegee University; University of Arkansas Pine Bluff; University of Maryland Eastern Shore; Virginia State University; and West Virginia State University.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://davidscott.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=397794,American Banker: Trump Raises Stakes for Atlanta Fed Pres Search,2016-11-23,2016,2016-11,Democrat,House,GA,David Scott,S001157,davidscott.house.gov,,,legacy,"By John Heltman November 23, 2016 WASHINGTON – The Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta's ongoing search for a president has taken on a new urgency for those pushing for a person of color to be nominated for the job amid fears that President-elect Donald Trump's selections for the Fed board will not have minorities' interests at heart. The Fed Up campaign – whose goal is to reverse what it sees as the central bank's unfair lack of consideration of the disproportionately high rates of unemployment among minorities – says its effort has become even more important considering Trump's other pending appointments. The president-elect will have to fill at least two vacancies on the Fed's Board of Governors, whose members sit on the monetary policy-setting Federal Open Market Committee. ""With Trump and the Republican Senate potentially filling two vacancies on the Board of Governors … we'll need the regional reserve banks to be aware of those dynamics,"" said Jordan Haedtler, deputy campaign manager for Fed Up. ""The economic challenges that we face as a country – and that the black communities in that Federal Reserve district feel especially significantly – are going to remain a problem. Quite frankly I expect that they will be felt even more acutely in a Trump administration."" Several Democrats in Congress have similarly called on the Atlanta Fed to elevate a person of color to succeed Dennis Lockhart, who announced in September that he was stepping down. Rep. David Scott, D-Ga., said there are many qualified African-Americans in business, banking and academia who could serve as head of the bank. Such a selection, he said, would send a powerful, positive message to the black community that it still has a voice in public decision-making. ""This is an opportunity … to pull this nation together and there's nobody out there feeling as hurt and disappointed as the African-American community,"" Scott said in an interview. ""I truly believe that this would be such a healing moment."" Regional Fed presidents are important for at least two reasons. First, they are in charge of supervision of all Fed member banks and bank holding companies in their districts. Secondly, they sometimes serve on the FOMC, which is made up of 12 members, the seven members of the Board of Governors and a rotating cast of five regional Fed Bank presidents. Ernest Patrikis, a former New York Fed official and partner with White & Case, said that typically the members of the board can outvote the regional bank presidents and as such have marginally more power. But the board has traditionally operated in a more collaborative atmosphere, not a top-down hierarchy, he said. That ironically makes the regional Fed presidents more important, since most dissenting votes come from within their ranks. ""It's good to see a dissent or two, and that will generally be a Reserve Bank president,"" Patrikis said. Diversity at the leadership level of the Federal Reserve System is a clear problem. Fed Chair Janet Yellen told a gathering at the Kansas City Fed in September that she was ""committed to improving diversity throughout our organization, including at the upper ranks."" The Fed also established the Office of Minority and Women Inclusion as part of the Dodd-Frank Act to examine and encourage the development of a more diverse workforce. But the system has a long way to go. Of the twelve reserve bank presidents, all but one are white, and to date there have only been three African-American members of the Board of Governors. Most of the minorities working in the Fed system are employed in either middle management or service and support roles rather than senior management, according to agency reports. The Atlanta Fed has said little about its search, citing the confidentiality of the process. But it did hire executive search firm Spencer Stuart as a consultant – a common, but not required, step. The search committee, pursuant to a lesser-known provision in the Dodd-Frank Act, consists of nonbank board members only. The search process also adopted some other innovations first used by the Minneapolis Fed when it sought a president to replace outgoing president Narayana Kocherlakota last year – namely opening up the nomination process to accept suggestions from the general public. Tom Fanning – chief executive of Southern Company and head of the search committee – said in October that in addition to accepting public suggestions, the bank was coordinating its search with the Fed board. ""As we look through the candidate list, we're sort of coordinating with the Fed Board to make sure that the candidate list is good, but this is the first time we have asked, in a very transparent way, for anyone to submit a candidate,"" Fanning said. ""I think it's notable, and it's a good thing."" Fanning said the bank hopes to have its search process complete before Lockhart steps down, but the bank is prepared for the search to goes on longer. Lockhart's resignation was compelled by the byzantine rules governing the tenures of regional Fed Bank presidents. Fed bank presidents must retire at age 65, except in cases where they were made president after the age of 55. In that case, they may serve either until age 75 or for 10 years, whichever comes first. Lockhart was installed as Atlanta Fed president in 2007 at age 59, and his 10-year term expires at the end of February. Regional bank presidents are submitted to the Fed Board for approval, but in practice the board tends to accept the nominees that the banks recommend. The board has not rejected a bank's nominee in recent memory. The banks and the board also tend to collaborate throughout the search process so there are no surprises when a bank's pick comes before the board. But that doesn't mean the board acts as a rubber stamp – in 2009 Fed Gov. Daniel Tarullo voted against the nomination of Narayana Kocherlakota to be president of the Minneapolis Fed. Those kinds of traditions govern much of the way the Fed operates, but it remains to be seen how those traditions interact with a Trump administration that promises to be anything but traditional. Also unclear is how deep of a footprint the Trump administration will have on the Fed board, who his picks will be and how quickly they will be appointed. Trump enters office with two vacancies left unfilled by the Obama administration – owing to a Senate blockade of his nominees because of the administration's unwillingness to appoint a Fed vice chairman for supervision, instead allowing that role to be informally filled by Tarullo. He is widely expected to depart the board at some point after a new vice chairman for supervision takes over, though his term on the board does not expire until 2022. Lou Crandall, chief economist at the research firm Wrightson ICAP, noted that Trump will have the chance to appoint a new head of the Fed board in 2018, when Yellen's term expires. Though Yellen can stay on as a board member until a separate term expires in 2024, there is no modern precedent for that. Lael Brainard – another Fed board governor and a noted supporter of Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton – might also choose to depart. ""Over the next year, the Trump administration could have to find as many as five Fed board candidates,"" Crandall said. What that means in terms of monetary policy is unclear – Trump has both praised and criticized the Fed for its handling of interest rates, though Republicans in Congress have largely favored a less accommodative policy. But Haedtler said there is reason to expect that accommodative policies – which Fed Up favors as critical to increase employment in minority communities – will be out of fashion in a Trump administration. That makes it all the more important to have an ally at the Atlanta Fed, he says. ""There's a lot of uncertainty. Unfortunately, the only people we have to trust to hold him accountable are the institutions that haven't always acted in a way we liked in the past – and I put the Fed in that category,"" Haedtler said. ""We'll need the regional reserve banks to be aware of those dynamics, and so I hope whoever is selected in Atlanta comes in with that difficult task in mind.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-johnson-laments-lack-response-academy-diversity,Rep. Johnson laments lack of response from Academy on diversity,2016-11-23,2016,2016-11,Democrat,House,GA,Hank Johnson,J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04), Ranking Members of the House Judiciary Subcommittee on Regulatory Reform, Commercial, and Antitrust Law (RRCAL) today released the following statement after not receiving a response to multiple letters to leadership of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (Academy) and the Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA) concerning the lack of racial and gender diversity of their membership. This illustrates the industry's lack of commitment to improving diversity in its rank despite claims to address the problem after the 2016 ""Oscars Are So White"" scandal. With less than 100 days left before the next Oscars announcement will be made, it appears bleak that Congress will have any opportunity to weigh in, provide guidance, or assistance despite numerous requests for meetings and letters sent to the MPAA.   “It’s disappointing to say the least that the Academy and MPAA have shown little interest in starting an open dialogue on how we can work together to increase racial and gender diversity at all levels of the motion picture industry from the actors involved to investment and invest firms, production, and staffing. As the Ranking Member of RRCAL, I have long championed that diversity improves competition. The Academy is no different. Indeed, I believe the Academy can play a crucial role in promoting and recognizing diverse voices not just throughout Hollywood but the entire film-making industry.”   According to the Motion Picture Association of America, the Georgia film industry currently ranks third in the nation behind only California and New York, with nearly 3,000 motion-picture and television industry businesses, including 1,957 production-related companies. With a direct spend of more than $2 billion the economic impact is more than $7 billion in FY16 — up from $244 million just a decade ago.   “Film industry jobs are crucial to Atlanta,” added Johnson, who indicated that there are about 25,000 Georgians who are in the film and television production business and another 30,000 who are indirectly related.  “It is imperative that my constituents be given a voice and be provided a seat at the table at all levels of the film industry.”   “Working together, we can ensure that everyone enjoys a level playing field when it comes to landing jobs in this growing and exciting industry in Georgia. ”   ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-hank-johnsons-statement-selection-sen-jeff-sessions-attorney,Congressman Hank Johnson's Statement on the Selection of Sen. Jeff Sessions for Attorney General,2016-11-18,2016,2016-11,Democrat,House,GA,Hank Johnson,J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) released the following statement regarding the selection of Alabama junior Senator Jeff Sessions for Attorney General: “Senator Session’s history of racist and xenophobic animus and his hardline stance against critical legal reform issues makes his selection for Attorney General exceedingly worrisome in a time when Americans are still recovering from a racially divisive election.       “Senator Sessions voting record reflects a politician without commitment to equal rights for all Americans. In addition to his vote against reauthorization of the landmark Violence Against Women Act and against expanding the list of federally recognized hate crimes, Sen. Sessions published 23-page hardline manifesto on immigration policy that provided no meaningful proposals to reform the process. He advocates the ripping apart of innocent families and supports policies that would detrimentally impact America’s ability to attract the world’s best talent. He has also vehemently opposed bipartisan efforts to end mandatory-minimum sentencing for federal offenders, and he voted in favor of loosening restrictions on wire-tapping. “Senator Sessions has also repeatedly sought to undermine agencies' attempts to enforce public health and safety laws. If we cannot trust Senator Sessions to enforce the laws on the books, he cannot be entrusted with the ultimate responsibility of fairly and responsibly leading the nation’s top enforcement agency on behalf of all Americans."" ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-hank-johnsons-telephone-town-hall-wednesday-nov-16-630-8-pm,"Congressman Hank Johnson's Telephone Town Hall, Wednesday, Nov. 16 6:30-8 p.m.",2016-11-18,2016,2016-11,Democrat,House,GA,Hank Johnson,J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Hank Johnson held a telephone town hall from his Washington, D.C. office on Wednesday, Nov. 16, 2016 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. He called 50,000 residents in the Fourth District to hear their thoughts on the results of the Nov. 8 General Election and to listen to what they would like to see him work on in the 115th Congress that begins Jan. 3, 2017.  Mr. Johnson spoke to residents for more than an hour and 20 minutes on such topics as the election results, the Electoral College, college housing issues, police-community relations, assistance with federal agencies and help for veterans -- among many other important topics.  To listen to the telephone town hall, click HERE.  ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-johnson-applauds-ftc-sharing-economy-report-renews-call-hearing,"Rep. Johnson Applauds FTC Sharing Economy Report, Renews Call for Hearing",2016-11-17,2016,2016-11,Democrat,House,GA,Hank Johnson,J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) issued a staff report providing an assessment of the regulatory and competition policy implications of sharing economy platforms. The report follows a 2015 June FTC public workshop on the issue. In April of this year, Congressman Johnson, Ranking Member of the House Judiciary Subcommittee with jurisdiction over regulatory and competition policy, called for the FTC to issue this report based on the 2015 workshop and pressed his Republican colleagues for a hearing on the issue. He released the following statement on the report: “I applaud the Commission for its thorough assessment of the sharing economy’s impact on regulatory, competition, and consumer protection policy,” Johnson said. “It is clear that this market, like any other innovative market, must operate in a regulatory framework that promotes and defends competition while protecting consumers. I will continue to monitor the issue closely as the Ranking Member of the House Judiciary Subcommittee with jurisdiction over these matters, and I renew my call to the Majority to hold a hearing on this important and timely issue, particularly in light of this report.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/secretary-vilsack-designates-three-additional-georgia-counties-as,SECRETARY VILSACK DESIGNATES THREE ADDITIONAL GEORGIA COUNTIES AS PRIMARY NATURAL DISASTER AREAS,2016-11-16,2016,2016-11,Democrat,House,GA,Sanford Bishop,B000490,bishop.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Thomas J. Vilsack designated an additional three counties within the State of Georgia as primary natural disaster areas due to severe drought conditions. These counties include Terrell County and Taylor County, located in Georgia’s 2nd Congressional District, as well as Warren County, located between Atlanta and Augusta. This follows a number of similar primary natural disaster area designations due to severe drought conditions in Georgia’s 2nd Congressional District. On November 3, 2016, Crawford, Crisp, Dooly, Lee, Macon, and Sumter Counties received such designations. Muscogee County received this designation on October 21, 2016. Bibb and Peach Counties received a primary disaster designation on September 29, and Talbot County received one on August 11, 2016. “I have been working closely with Secretary Vilsack and his team at USDA, as well as with the U.S. Drought Monitor and our farmers in Middle and Southwest Georgia, to ensure the scope of this drought is fully understood and that our farmers are receiving the help they need,” said Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. “Today’s primary natural disaster designations will open up much needed resources for impacted farmers. However, we have received reports that other Georgia counties are also facing severe drought conditions, and my office remains committed to ensuring all impacted farmers are receiving the appropriate level of assistance.” The designation as a primary disaster area due to severe drought conditions opens up eligibility for certain USDA disaster assistance programs. This specific drought designation provides access to payments from the Livestock Forage Disaster Program (LFP) for grazing losses from drought-affected pastureland and cropland. Congressman Bishop previously worked with Secretary Vilsack to extend the 2016 grazing period for LFP from October 31 to December 1, 2016. This extension ensured that farmers did not automatically lose eligibility to receive assistance as USDA examined the scope of the drought in Georgia. Additionally, the disaster designation also provides eligibility for certain types of disaster loan assistance. The main disaster assistance program triggered by these designations is consideration for low-interest emergency loans. These designations also trigger access to the Disaster Set-Aside (DSA) program, which enables producers with a direct loan from the Farm Service Agency (FSA) to move one annual payment to the end of the loan if the producers are not able to make their payments on schedule. Background on USDA’s disaster assistance programs can be found here, and background on the U.S. Drought Monitor can be found here. A copy of Secretary Vilsack’s designation letter can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://johnlewis.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-john-lewis-and-sen-sherrod-brown-urge-dot-act-bus-safety,Rep. John Lewis and Sen. Sherrod Brown Urge DOT To Act on Bus Safety,2016-11-16,2016,2016-11,Democrat,House,GA,John Lewis,L000287,johnlewis.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON – Following a series of recent high-profile bus crashes, Rep. John Lewis (D-GA) and Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-OH) recently sent a letter to the Department of Transportation (DOT) urging completion of several overdue rules to improve motorcoach safety.  According to the most recent statistics available, nearly 300 people are killed and 22,000 people are injured in bus crashes every year.  In October of this year alone, 13 people died and 31 were injured in Riverside County, California, when a bus hit a truck.  A charter bus driver was killed and 43 senior citizens were injured when a motorcoach collided with a tractor trailer in Georgia.  In Maryland, six people were killed and ten people were injured when a school bus and a Baltimore transit bus crashed.  Common-sense, proven safety measures could help prevent deaths and severe injuries in crashes across the country. ""Too many people die unnecessarily, when simple safety measures could make the difference between life and death,"" said Rep. Lewis.  ""These rules could save thousands of people from the anguish and despair of losing their loved ones or suffering disabling injuries.  We need to make sure that all buses traveling on our highways are safe for the millions of Americans who depend on them for transportation and for the millions more who drive next to them."" “October’s bus crash in Riverside County, California is one in a long line of tragic accidents that underscore the importance of enforcing motorcoach safety standards,” Sen. Brown said. “DOT must finalize commonsense safety measures for all motorcoaches—seatbelts, stronger roofs, and safer windows—to help prevent deaths and minimize injuries. The time to act is now.” Rep. Lewis and Sen. Brown began working together in 2007, after a fatal bus crash on Interstate 75 in Atlanta that killed seven people, including five members of Ohio’s Bluffton University baseball team.  Together, they introduced the Motorcoach Enhanced Safety Act, which called for new regulations requiring seatbelts, increased roof strength, anti-ejection measures, and rollover avoidance.  This bill was passed and signed into law in 2012 as a part of the Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act (MAP-21). However, none of these critical safety rules were issued by DOT before the due dates set in the legislation by Congress.  Some are still overdue.  Others, like the rule requiring motorcoaches to add seatbelts, only apply to new buses, and not existing ones.  This still leaves thousands at risks.  The bus involved in an October bus crash in Riverside County, California,  killing 13 people was not equipped with seatbelts, proven to save lives. The Lewis-Brown letter calls on DOT to provide a clear timeline for finalizing and implementing these important rules.  DOT has issued Notices of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) on roof strength, emergency exits, window retention and release, and anti-ejection glazing, but has not provided updates, though these rules were required to be issued by 2014.  DOT also has not made a decision about fire prevention and mitigation standards in accordance with a study completed in November 2015.   ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/georgia-environmental-finance-authority-awards-loans-to-12-georgia,GEORGIA ENVIRONMENTAL FINANCE AUTHORITY AWARDS LOANS TO 12 GEORGIA COMMUNITIES,2016-11-15,2016,2016-11,Democrat,House,GA,Sanford Bishop,B000490,bishop.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C – Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) is proud to share that the Georgia Environmental Finance Authority (GEFA) has awarded loans totaling $26.1 million to 12 Georgia communities, including two in Georgia’s 2nd Congressional District. The loans will finance infrastructure improvements for water, sewer, and solid waste treatment plants throughout the state. The City of Damascus in Early County received a $403,000 Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) loan for improvements to the city’s water tank, including repainting and water main and leak repairs. The DWSRF loan is a federally-funded loan administered through GEFA that addresses health-related water supply and water conservation projects. Fort Valley Utility Commission in Peach County received a $1,000,000 Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF) loan. This CWSRF funding will be used for a new oxygenation system at the Lanter Water Reclamation Facility. The new system is expected to improve the capacity of the facility from 1.7 million gallons per day to 2.2 million gallons per day. CWSRF loans are federally-funded loans administered through GEFA for projects that deal with water quality, conservation, and wastewater treatment, as well as repairs to sewer and storm water projects. “Since 1985, the Georgia Environmental Finance Authority has diligently worked to preserve and enhance Georgia’s energy and water resources.” said Congressman Bishop.  “I am grateful for the agency’s attention and dedication to enhancing water infrastructure in Middle and Southwest Georgia.”  GEFA has funded more than 1,500 projects and provided more than $3.5 billion in loans for water, solid waste, and sewer improvements since 1985. For the full list of communities awarded infrastructure loans, click here. For more information on CWSRF or DWSRF loans and how to apply, visit GEFA’s website.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-hank-johnsons-statement-naming-steve-bannon-white-house,Congressman Hank Johnson's Statement on Naming of Steve Bannon as White House Chief Strategist,2016-11-15,2016,2016-11,Democrat,House,GA,Hank Johnson,J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) released the following statement after it was announced that alt-right movement leader and Breitbart News executive chairman Steve Bannon will be Chief Strategist for President-elect Trump’s White House: “After running a vicious, racist and xenophobic campaign, President-elect Donald Trump is now putting a white nationalist anti-Semite as his chief strategist in the White House. It’s a troubling sign that the 45th president intends to further sow the seeds of hatred and bigotry than bring the American people together. There can be no accommodation, no collaboration – only resistance. I’m calling on all my fellow Georgia congressional colleagues to stand with me in condemning this appointment and demand that it be withdrawn.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-statement-regarding-veterans-day-1,CONGRESSMAN BISHOP STATEMENT REGARDING VETERANS DAY,2016-11-14,2016,2016-11,Democrat,House,GA,Sanford Bishop,B000490,bishop.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02), Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies and Co-chair of the Congressional Military Family Caucus (CMFC), released a statement honoring our nation's veterans in recognition of Veterans Day: “Today, November 11, is a day of remembrance by which our nation pauses to honor the service and sacrifice of the men and women in our armed forces, past and present. To the veterans across America, whether you served in Europe during the World Wars, in Asia during the Korean or Vietnam Wars, in the Middle East, or elsewhere; whether you served during a period of conflict or peace time; whether you served at home or in lands far away; you have served honorably to uphold the ideals upon which the United States was built. “Your service to protect the freedoms we hold dear is especially important as we reflect on the events of the past week by which Americans across the country participated in the democratic process to cast ballots in favor of their preferred candidates. The preservation of this basic right would not have been possible if not for the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, and Coast Guard who have faithfully served our nation. The peaceful transition of power is a hallmark of the U.S. Constitution which has been diligently defended by our service members and veterans. For that, I am eternally grateful. “As we continue to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the Vietnam War this Veterans Day, I would like especially recognize the men and women who served during this conflict. May we never again take for granted those who served in harm’s way and may we as a people always care for our veterans.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://johnlewis.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-john-lewis-mourns-passing-journalist-gwen-ifill,Rep. John Lewis Mourns the Passing of Journalist Gwen Ifill,2016-11-14,2016,2016-11,Democrat,House,GA,John Lewis,L000287,johnlewis.house.gov,,,legacy,"This nation has lost one of its premier journalists.   Gwen Ifill exemplified the highest standards of professional reporting .  As the seasoned host of the PBS Newshour and Washington Week, she understood the complexities of politics and built a national reputation for leading a substantive, balanced and fair newscast.  She believed in the necessity and power of news to educate voters about issues they needed to evaluate and comprehend. She began her career when few people of color were represented in national television news and when reporters were mainly men.   As a pioneer, the challenges she experienced could never  subdue her love of politics or silence her desire to blaze a trail for those who might see her very presence as confirmation that they too could succeed. Beyond her outstanding competence, Gwen Ifill was admired  by her colleagues as a gracious, humble, magnanimous human being--rare qualities in a profession that requires ambition and persistence.  She was a dear friend to me and to many.  She will be deeply missed.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://davidscott.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=397790,Clayton News Daily: Jonesboro honors veterans,2016-11-11,2016,2016-11,Democrat,House,GA,David Scott,S001157,davidscott.house.gov,,,legacy,"By Joe Adgie Updated Nov 11, 2016 JONESBORO — America’s veterans were honored Friday at a moving Veteran’s Day ceremony at Lee Street Park. The event, which featured U.S. Rep. David Scott as a guest speaker, honored living veterans of every conflict since World War II and every branch of the military. Joy Day, Jonesboro mayor, said the event was about valuing those that have served in the Armed Forces. “Today is about those who have served the cause of freedom, our beloved veterans,” Day said. “Veterans love their country. They believe in a cause. They know first-hand that the world is a better place because of the power, influence and value of the United States of America.” A veteran of World War II was present and was pointed out in the crowd by Scott, who discussed the bravery of that generation, a generation referred to by some as the “Greatest Generation.” “We owe so much, but not just us,” Scott said. “Ladies and gentlemen, we’ve had wars upon wars, but there was no war like World War II. If it wasn’t for us, the American solider who went in hails of bullets, sitting on the ships, in the airplanes, bound for Normandy, where we had over 300,000 of our soldiers braving the oceans to land at Omaha Beach and Utah Beach in a hail of bullets and armor from the German machine guns.” Scott said it was the efforts of Americans on the beaches of Normandy that helped liberate France and the rest of Europe from the rule of Nazi Germany in June 1944. “Had we not gone on D-Day, Europe would be speaking German today,” Scott said. “I not only speak for me, but I speak for the President, for NATO, I speak for Great Britain and all of our allies… Your generation, the World War II generation, saved the world.” Scott, who is a member of the NATO Parliamentary Assembly, said in his travels around the world, he has spoken to individuals who have shared more knowledge of the American military than people stateside. “This is an extraordinary day, and we take it too lightly,” Scott said. “We do not have the full educational grasp in our schools, in our colleges to understand the sacrifices that our military has made for this world. I get to travel around the world as a member of NATO, and I talk to people, and there’s such a great respect for our military.” Scott said the country taking Veteran’s Day lightly is a problem. “We’ve got to correct that,” Scott said. The event featured representatives from every branch of the military - the Navy, Army, Marine Corps, Air Force and Coast Guard, and veterans of the Korean War, Vietnam Conflict, Cold War, Desert Shield, Desert Storm and the War on Terror, among other conflicts.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://davidscott.house.gov/blog/?postid=397779,Congressman David Scott to Deliver Keynote Remarks at Veterans Day Service,2016-11-10,2016,2016-11,Democrat,House,GA,David Scott,S001157,davidscott.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman David Scott to Deliver Keynote Remarks at Veterans Day Service On Friday, November 11, 2016, Congressman David Scott will join leaders from the Jonesboro VFW Post 6330 Auxiliary, Jonesboro American Legion, city of Jonesboro and Clayton County to honor the service and sacrifice of 21.4 million American veterans across the country, including 751,763 in Georgia. WHO:        Congressman David Scott                    Jonesboro VFW Post 6330 Auxiliary                    Jonesboro American Legion   WHAT:       1st Annual Veterans Day Service   WHEN:      Friday, November 11, 11:00 a.m.                    WHERE:     Lee Street Park                      155 Lee Street                     Jonesboro, GA 30236 ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://davidscott.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=397779,Congressman David Scott to Deliver Keynote Remarks at Veterans Day Service,2016-11-10,2016,2016-11,Democrat,House,GA,David Scott,S001157,davidscott.house.gov,,,legacy,"On Friday, November 11, 2016, Congressman David Scott will join leaders from the Jonesboro VFW Post 6330 Auxiliary, Jonesboro American Legion, city of Jonesboro and Clayton County to honor the service and sacrifice of 21.4 million American veterans across the country, including 751,763 in Georgia. WHO:        Congressman David Scott                    Jonesboro VFW Post 6330 Auxiliary                    Jonesboro American Legion   WHAT:       1st Annual Veterans Day Service   WHEN:      Friday, November 11, 11:00 a.m.                    WHERE:     Lee Street Park                      155 Lee Street                     Jonesboro, GA 30236 ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/e-newsletters/congressman-hank-johnsons-veterans-day-e-newsletter-2016,Congressman Hank Johnson's Veterans Day E-Newsletter 2016,2016-11-10,2016,2016-11,Democrat,House,GA,Hank Johnson,J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Dear Friends, I was honored to participate this year in DeKalb County’s Veterans Day celebration. The theme was “Honoring Those Who Served: Excellence.” I can’t think of a more succinct, to-the-point title. Whether they fought at Normandy or Falluja, Mogadishu or Helmand, in the Persian Gulf or in the Tet Offensive or simply provided support here at home, our veterans represent the very best men and women who have served our country in battle. On this Veterans Day, we express our deepest gratitude and thanks. Your sacrifices have been the foundation of more than 240 years of American progress. Your legacy confirms that no matter what confronts us or what adversity we face, there is no challenge we cannot overcome together, and because of your sacrifice and commitment our best days as a nation lie ahead. Our men and women in uniform teach us duty, strength, enterprise, passion and dedication – the bedrock of a commitment to safeguard and shield – that has kept our nation secure for more than two centuries. In war and in peace, your service has been selfless and your accomplishments have been singular. As a grateful nation, it is our solemn duty to make that transition possible -- to ensure our returning heroes can share in the opportunities they have fought so hard to protect. The freedoms we hold dear exist and persist because of your commitment, and our nation must work much harder to honor our veterans by fulfilling our promise to them and upholding the sacred bond we share with all Americans’ veterans. On this Veterans Day celebration, we are called to commemorate the boundless burdens that have been endured by so few. We honor our wounded warriors, our missing in action, our fallen, and their families -- men and women who have borne the ultimate costs of war and deserve our deepest respect, not just today but forever.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://johnlewis.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-john-lewis-commemorates-veterans-day,Rep. John Lewis Commemorates Veterans Day,2016-11-10,2016,2016-11,Democrat,House,GA,John Lewis,L000287,johnlewis.house.gov,,,legacy,"Our freedom is not free.  It comes at a price.  No one understands that like the men and women in uniform who serve this nation so well.   As Americans gather to celebrate Veterans Day, we honor the thousands of brave men and women who defend this nation on the frontlines of war and peaceful engagement on American shores and around the world.  We honor those who have laid down their lives for us as well as those who stand ready to make the ultimate sacrifice for this country. I am immensely proud to represent over 33,000 veterans in the 5th District of Georgia.  Their commitment to patriotic duty reminds us of our best selves and the principled selflessness that can be a powerful part of the American spirit. For their honorable service and all that they sufferwe owe our veterans not only a debt of gratitude, but a sacred promise to uphold America's highest ideals of equality, liberty and justice.  They should inspire our vow to live true to the founding principles of our democracy in our homes, at work, in our minds and our hearts.                                                                                                 ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/bishop-statement-on-shooting-in-peach-county,BISHOP STATEMENT ON SHOOTING IN PEACH COUNTY,2016-11-07,2016,2016-11,Democrat,House,GA,Sanford Bishop,B000490,bishop.house.gov,,,legacy,"PEACH COUNTY, GA – Today, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) released the following statement regarding the recent shooting in Peach County, Georgia: “My deepest condolences go out to the family of the Peach County deputy, Patrick Sondon, who lost his life Sunday while serving his community. Deputy Sondon was shot and killed while responding to a dispute between neighbors. A second Peach County deputy was wounded in the same incident and remains in critical condition. “Officers from the Peach County Sheriff’s Office, and from all of our law enforcement agencies across the region and country, put their lives on the line every day to serve and protect our communities. We should never take for granted the risk taken by our first responders and we should respect their sacrifices and those of their families. My heart goes out to all who have been touched by this tragic event, and I pray for the full recovery of the wounded deputy.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/advisory-usda-surveys-farmers-to-develop-policy-program-incentives,ADVISORY: USDA SURVEYS FARMERS TO DEVELOP POLICY & PROGRAM INCENTIVES,2016-11-04,2016,2016-11,Democrat,House,GA,Sanford Bishop,B000490,bishop.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On Tuesday, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced the next phase of its 2016 National Resources Inventory-Conservation Effects Assessment Project (NRI-CEAP). The USDA will be surveying 16,000 farmers and ranchers until February 2017 to document conservation and production practices. This survey will help USDA develop voluntary, science-based solutions and incentives for improving conservation at farms and ranches. Over the past several months, the National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) initially reached out to 25,000 farmers and ranchers throughout the United States to determine eligibility to participate in the survey. USDA is now in the process of reaching out to eligible farmers to conduct in-person interviews. “The survey will measure the environmental benefits associated with installing and using conservation practices on agricultural land,” stated NASS Administrator Hubert Hamer in USDA’s announcement on November 1, 2016. “Responses to the survey can directly benefit producers themselves by helping leaders focus on what producers need to install conservation practices that are best for their operations environmentally and financially.” The survey specifically examines the implementation of conservation practices, use of nutrients and pesticides, as well as cropping and irrigation history and grazing patterns. The survey is being conducted in partnership with the Natural Resource Conservation Service. The results of the study will be used to direct USDA’s natural resource conservation policy and program development to help farmers and ranchers conserve farmland and natural resources more efficiently and effectively. The USDA has invested over $29 billion since 2009 to assist in conservation improvements. More information on the USDA’s NRI-CEAP survey can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/ga-congressmen-request-assistance-ag-lynch-over-machines-flipping-votes,GA Congressmen Request Assistance from AG Lynch Over Machines "Flipping" Votes,2016-11-02,2016,2016-11,Democrat,House,GA,Hank Johnson,J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. -- According to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Georgia Secretary of State Brian Kemp is now investigating more reports of voting machines ‘flipping’ voters’ presidential choices in 11 Georgia counties including: Baldwin, Bryan, Bulloch, Chatham, Clayton, Cobb, Coweta, DeKalb, Dodge, Effingham and Macon-Bibb. News of the investigations comes as Georgia's Democratic congressmen, led by Rep. Hank Johnson (GA-04), sent a letter to U.S. Attorney General Loretta Lynch on Nov. 1 requesting that Justice Department officials consider sending poll monitors “or any other election monitoring resource” to Georgia on Election Day, Nov. 8. Reps. John Lewis (GA-05), David Scott (GA-13) and Sanford Bishop (GA-02) also signed the letter.  ""Due to our concern regarding reports of inaccurate voting machines, we request the Department provide any resources or assistance to ensure voters at Georgia polls can exercise their fundamental right to vote and cast their vote with accuracy and confidence,"" the letter states.  To read the letter, click HERE.  ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/usda-extends-grazing-period-for-livestock-forage-program,USDA EXTENDS GRAZING PERIOD FOR LIVESTOCK FORAGE PROGRAM,2016-11-01,2016,2016-11,Democrat,House,GA,Sanford Bishop,B000490,bishop.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Sanford Bishop is pleased to share that USDA has extended the end of the 2016 grazing period for the Livestock Forage Program (LFP) from October 31 to December 1, 2016. The grazing period helps determine eligibility for LFP assistance for those farmers impacted by drought. This decision follows a discussion last Friday between Congressman Bishop and U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack regarding drought conditions in Southwest and Middle Georgia counties. “I would like to extend my sincerest thanks to Secretary Vilsack and his team at USDA for their swift action in extending the grazing period for the Livestock Forage Program,” said Congressman Bishop. “Drought conditions in Southwest and Middle Georgia counties have been disastrous. My office remains committed to working with all stakeholders to ensure appropriate drought designations are made in the region. Secretary Vilsack’s decision will help ensure that our farmers remain eligible to receive the assistance they need as USDA examines the scope of this drought.” Congressman Bishop’s office has collaborated with USDA, the U.S. Drought Monitor, Georgia’s State Climatologist’s office, and the University of Georgia’s Cooperative Extension offices to submit pertinent and accurate environmental data to the U.S. Drought Monitor. Congressman Bishop’s office will continue to work with these organizations to ensure that all farmers experiencing drought conditions in Southwest and Middle Georgia are receiving the appropriate level of assistance. More information on the Livestock Forage Program can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/johnson-praises-obama-administration-agencies-pro-consumer-rules,"Johnson Praises Obama Administration, Agencies for Pro-Consumer Rules",2016-11-01,2016,2016-11,Democrat,House,GA,Hank Johnson,J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On October 27, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) adopted rules to protect consumers’ privacy for information collected by broadband Internet Service Providers (ISPs). The final rules require greater choice, transparency, and security protection for this information. In a statement in support of the rule, FCC Chairman Tom Wheeler stated that the FCC has also initiated an internal process to begin the rulemaking process to “address the harmful impacts of mandatory arbitration requirements on consumers of communications services.” On October 28, the Department of Education (DOE) adopted a final rule to protect students from predatory loan terms that block student borrowers’ access to the courts in claims against institutions. As adopted, the final rule prohibits the use of pre-dispute “forced” arbitration agreements in student loans. U .S. Representative Henry C. “Hank” Johnson, Jr., (GA-04), the Ranking Member of the Subcommittee of Regulatory Reform, Commercial and Antitrust Law of the House Judiciary Committee, issued the following statement in response to separate rules issued last week by the Department of Education and Federal Communications Commission to protect consumers: “Under the leadership of the Obama Administration, agencies have worked tirelessly to protect consumers and to hold accountable wrongdoers through an open justice system,” Johnson stated. “Secretary John King of the Department of Education and Chairman Tom Wheeler of the Federal Communications Commission deserve high praise for their fight on behalf of consumers.    “I also thank FCC Commissioner Mignon Clyburn for her calls to end forced arbitration through FCC rulemakings. As Commissioner Clyburn thoughtfully stated, ‘Mandatory arbitration, put simply, forces consumers with grievances against a company, out of the court system, and into a private dispute resolution system.’ I wholly agree.” Rep. Johnson is the sponsor of H.R. 2087, the Arbitration Fairness Act, which would prohibit forced arbitration agreement clauses in consumer, civil rights, antitrust, and non-bargained employee agreements. Johnson has also championed efforts to increase privacy, security, and choice in the app marketplace. He has introduced H.R. 4517, the Application Privacy, Protection and Security (APPS) Act of 2016, a bill to increase consumer privacy on mobile devices; and H.R. 4516, the Data Broker Accountability and Transparency (DATA) Act of 2016, which would prohibit data brokers from using consumer data deceptively, empowering consumers to access and correct information, and opt-out of data use for marketing purposes. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-johnson-calls-close-scrutiny-proposed-att-time-warner-acquisition,Rep. Johnson Calls for Close Scrutiny of Proposed AT&T-Time Warner Acquisition,2016-10-31,2016,2016-10,Democrat,House,GA,Hank Johnson,J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Henry C. “Hank” Johnson, Jr., (GA-04), the Ranking Member of the Antitrust Subcommittee of the House Judiciary Committee, issued the following statement in response to the proposed acquisition of Time Warner by AT&T:   “Competition in the swiftly evolving communications and video content market is critical to ensuring effective choice and low costs for millions of Americans,” Johnson stated. “As ranking member of the House Antitrust Subcommittee, I plan to scrutinize closely the proposed acquisition and its impact on competition in the video content industry generally to ensure that this transaction will not harm consumers and workers or impede the free exchange of ideas.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-johnson-s-statement-fbi-letter-gop-congressional-chairmen,Rep Johnsons Statement on FBI Letter to GOP Congressional Chairmen,2016-10-28,2016,2016-10,Democrat,House,GA,Hank Johnson,J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,,,legacy,"DECATUR, GA – The Honorable Henry C. “Hank” Johnson, Jr. (GA-04) Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Regulatory Reform, Commercial and Antitrust Law released the following statement in response to FBI Director James Comey’s letter to eight Republican Committee Chairmen: “The long-standing practice of the FBI is to avoid publicly disclosing the existence of investigations,” said Rep. Johnson. “Director Comey violated that rule by notifying certain members of Congress that the FBI was reviewing new information that pertained to the closed e-mail investigation. Coming during early voting with just 11 days before the last day to vote, Director Comey should have known that congressional Republicans would use the notice for political purposes. His decision to notify Congress with this nebulous information was unwise and imprudent, and has done a grave disservice to the nation.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/advisory-hhs-announces-over-3-billion-in-funding-for-energy-assistance-0,ADVISORY: HHS ANNOUNCES OVER $3 BILLION IN FUNDING FOR ENERGY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM,2016-10-27,2016,2016-10,Democrat,House,GA,Sanford Bishop,B000490,bishop.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) Administration for Children and Families has announced over $3 billion in funding for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). LIHEAP aids low-income families and individuals with bill payments, energy crises, energy efficiency improvements, and energy-related home repairs. Georgia has received $49,887,842 in LIHEAP funding for Fiscal Year (FY) 2017, an increase of over $1 million from FY 2016. Funding was provided through the FY 2017 Continuing Resolution, Public Law 114-223, which was enacted on September 29, 2016. For more information about LIHEAP, click here. For more information about how to apply for assistance, call the National Energy Assistance Referral (NEAR) line at 1-866-674-6327 or contact the Georgia Department of Human Services at 1-877-423-4746.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/advisory-disaster-assistance-available-for-drought-stricken-areas-in-0,ADVISORY: DISASTER ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE FOR DROUGHT STRICKEN AREAS IN GEORGIA,2016-10-24,2016,2016-10,Democrat,House,GA,Sanford Bishop,B000490,bishop.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Secretary of Agriculture Thomas J. Vilsack, in accordance with Section 321(a) of the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act, sent a letter last week designating three counties within the State of Georgia as contiguous disaster areas due to recent drought conditions in Georgia and Alabama. These designated areas include Chattahoochee, Muscogee, and Stewart counties in Georgia. “I am pleased that Secretary Vilsack recognized the need for drought assistance in areas of Southwest Georgia,” said Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. “However, based on concerns I have heard from farmers in the 2nd Congressional District of Georgia, I urge Secretary Vilsack to investigate whether these and additional counties in Middle and Southwest Georgia may themselves also qualify as areas of severe drought, which would open up additional resources for impacted farmers. My office is committed to ensuring that all counties experiencing drought conditions are receiving the appropriate level of assistance.” Receiving a Secretarial contiguous disaster area designation allows farmers within Chattahoochee, Muscogee, and Stewart counties to be eligible for certain U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) disaster assistance programs. The main disaster assistance program triggered by the Secretarial designation is consideration for low-interest emergency loans. This type of designation also triggers access to Disaster Set-Aside (DSA) program, which enables producers with a direct loan from the Farm Service Agency (FSA) to move one annual payment to the end of the loan if the producers are not able to make their payments on schedule. Russell County in Alabama, adjacent to Chattahoochee, Muscogee, and Stewart counties in Georgia, received a primary natural disaster area designation due to severe drought conditions. Should any Georgia counties also independently meet enhanced primary drought designations (D2 to D4) as defined by the U.S. Drought Monitor, farmers may be eligible for additional assistance. This assistance includes access to payments from the Livestock Forage Disaster Program (LSP) for grazing losses from drought-affected pastureland and cropland. Eligibility varies depending on time and conditions, but LSP assistance generally requires a drought designation of D2 (severe drought) for eight consecutive weeks during the normal grazing period. A designation of D3 (extreme drought) or D4 (exceptional drought) anytime during the normal grazing period also opens up eligibility for LSP assistance. Background on USDA’s disaster assistance programs can be found here, and background on the U.S. Drought Monitor can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://johnlewis.house.gov/media-center/federal-grant-announcements/rep-john-lewis-announces-115-million-grants-5th-district,Federal Grants Announcement - $115 Million in Grants,2016-10-24,2016,2016-10,Democrat,House,GA,John Lewis,L000287,johnlewis.house.gov,,,legacy,"Periodically, Rep. John Lewis is notified that organizations within the 5th Congressional District have been selected to receive a variety of federal grants.  This federal grants announcement will advise press and constituents of these notifications.  This announcement details about $115,083,444 in federal grants coming to the 5th Congressional District. What is the funding process for federal grants? There are two basic ways the federal government awards funds, through mandatory funding or discretionary funding.  Members of Congress vote on “authorizing” legislation that funds the mandatory commitments of the federal government for programs like Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, unemployment insurance and SNAP.  Also every year, levels of discretionary funding are determined during the Congressional appropriations process.  Rep. Lewis and all other members of Congress work to ensure that federal programs which provide key services within their districts are funded at levels requested by local government authorities and constituents they represent.    The federal grants announced by this release fall mainly in the discretionary category.  The money appropriated by Congress is sent to the federal agencies, such as the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) or of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), which then disburse it directly to the states and local governments.  Sometimes federal agencies issue requests for proposals which place states, cities, and local organizations in competition with others around the country for the opportunity to gain federal support for a local project.  This is where the efficacy of city and state organizations are tested to determine whether they can compete effectively to receive those funds. Rep. Lewis often meets with and advises city, state or local agencies to help them strategize effective methods of engaging the federal agencies throughout the grant process. Pell Grants, Byrne Justice Assistance, veterans’ services, LIHEAP home heating support, early education, COPS, YouthBuild, Jobs Corps, the CDC, minority health programs, TIGER, critical disease research initiatives, tenant and fair housing assistance all stem from Congressional discretionary funding.  Recent successful discretionary grant efforts from the 5th Congressional District of Georgia include the Atlanta Streetcar, the Multimodal Passenger Terminal, the Atlanta BeltLine, and the UTC.  Through his District Office, Rep. Lewis offers grants assistance and workshops to explain the federal grants process.  Please call 404-659-0116 if you are interested in participating in one of these workshops.  Following is the list of the most recently granted federal funds to the 5th Congressional District. If you are seeking more information about any one of these federal grants, please consult the granting information for more details on their selection process. Grants over $500,000 are highlighted. This is to inform you that the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, the National Science Foundation, National Institute of Standards and Technology, U.S. Department of Transportation, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the Department of Transportation, the Department of Energy, and the U.S. Economic Development Administration will be announcing the following grant award(s) to recipient(s) within your Congressional district and state.    Grant Notifications   U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) Grant Recipient: Task Force for Global Health Inc. Grant Project Title: GH15-1619, PIO/HQ ""Strengthening Applied Epidemiology and Sustainable International Public Health Capacity through the Field Epidemiology Training Programs"" Amount: $18,413,237 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:168867             Recipient: Georgia State University Grant Project Title: Advances in the Study of Social Neuroendocrinology Amount: $227,250 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:170014   Recipient: Emory University Grant Project Title: Pharmacology, Physiology, and Biological Chemistry Research Amount: $547,214 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:170090   Recipient: Emory University Grant Project Title: CRCNS: Multi-scale models of proprioceptive encoding for sensorimotor control Amount: $371,622 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:169975   Recipient: Emory University Grant Project Title: Development and Assessment of Decision Supporting System for Renal studies Amount: $351,000 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:169958   Recipient: Emory University Grant Project Title: Georgia Diabetes Translation Research Center Amount: $532,185 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:169947   Recipient: St. Joseph’s Mercy Care Services Grant Project Title: Health Center Cluster Amount: $71,408 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:170606   Recipient: Georgia Department of Community Health Grant Project Title: Health Center Cluster Amount: $83,848 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:170850 Recipient: Palmetto Health Council, Inc Grant Project Title: Health Center Cluster Amount: $65,163 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:170956   Recipient: The Family Health Centers of Georgia, Inc. Grant Project Title: Health Center Cluster Amount: $74,401 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:170979   Recipient: Southside Medical Center, Inc. Grant Project Title: Health Center Cluster Amount: $98,306 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:171051   Recipient: Meridian Education Resource Group, Inc.    Grant Project Title: Health Center Cluster Amount: $43,685 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:171295   Recipient: Health Education, Assessment and Leadership, Inc. Grant Project Title: Health Center Cluster Amount: $47,182 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:171692   Recipient: Emory University Grant Project Title: Planning a Regional Center of Research Excellence in Non-communicable Diseases in India Amount: $289,628 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:171849 Recipient: Georgia Institute of Technology Grant Project Title: The Impact of the Intrauterine and Early Childhood Environments on Neurocognitive and Metabolic Development in African American Youth: Focus on the Gut-Brain Axis Amount: $1,414,931 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:171977   Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: ALIGN v.2.0: Identification and Quantification of Real Time Barriers to Community Mobility Amount: $199,940 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:170362   Recipient: Emory University Grant Project Title: Impact of prenatal insecticide exposure on neurodevelopmental trajectories in a Thai birth cohort: building exposure science and neurodevelopmental research capacity in Thailand Amount: $563,957 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:170408                                              Recipient: Clark Atlanta University Grant Project Title: Grants to Support the Historically Black Colleges and Universities Health Services Research Grant Program Amount: $215,000 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:170556   Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: Personalized Medicine for Pressure Ulcer Prevention: Clinical Measures of Buttocks Deformation Amount: $199,985 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:170588                                       Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: Assistive Software Knowledgebase for Computers and Mobile Devices Amount: $200,000 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:170590   Recipient: Emory University Grant Project Title: Impact of Trauma Exposure on Critical Periods in Brain Development and Fear Processing in Children Amount: $542,009 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:172531   Recipient: Emory University Grant Project Title: Impact of eliminating nonmedical exemptions in California Amount: $739,056 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:172518   Recipient: Morehouse School of Medicine Grant Project Title: Morehouse School of Medicine/Tuskegee University/UAB Comprehensive Cancer Center Partnership Amount: $1,124,237 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:172605 Any questions regarding this notification should be addressed to the HHS Press office at (202) 690-6343.   National Science Foundation (NSF) Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: Conference on Mathematical Results in Quantum Physics; October 8-11, 2016, Georgia Institute of Technology Amount: $45,000 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1643086                                             Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: A Shared Autonomy Approach to Robotic Arm Assistance with Daily Activities Amount: $298,503 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1605228   Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: Computational and Communication Efficient Distributed Statistical Methods with Theoretical Guarantees Amount: $375,000 Additional Details:   http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1613152     Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: Collaborative Research: RAPID: CS-NYCE: An Ecological Approach to Understanding the Rollout of Student-Centered Computer Science Education in New York City Amount: $58,627 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1645710   Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: Collaborative Research: CDS&E-MSS: Local Approximation for Large Scale Spatial Modeling Amount: $75,000 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1621722       Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: CRISP Type 1/Collaborative Research: Sustainable and Resilient Design of Interdependent Water and Energy Systems at the Infrastructure-Human-Resource Nexus Amount: $246,937 Additional Details:   http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1638268        Grant Recipient: Georgia State University Research Foundation, Inc. Grant Project Title: Collaborative Research: Promoting Reasoning In Undergraduate Mathematics (PRIUM) Amount: $310,409 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1624970   Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: Combining Craft and Performance to Teach Physical Computing Amount: $298,885 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1612686   Grant Recipient: Clark Atlanta University Grant Project Title: MRI: Acquisition of a Modern Secondary Ion Spectrometer for Multidisciplinary Research and Training of Next Generation Scientists Amount: $693,854 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1625050       Grant Recipient: Emory University Grant Project Title: Using the emulsion glass transition to test the universality of jamming Amount: $378,513 Additional Details:   http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1609763       Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: EAGER: Developing An Intelligent Computational-Healthcare Decision Support Amount: $100,000 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1651360      Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: EAGER: Collaborative Research: Structural Characteristics and the Pace of Scientific Advance Amount: $35,316 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1646459      Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: PFI:BIC Next Generation Real-Time Distributed Manufacturing Service Systems Using Digital Process Planning and GPU-Accelerated Parallel Computing Amount: $1,000,000 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1631803   Grant Recipient: Emory University Grant Project Title: Scholars Award: The Co-production of Knowledge by Reproductive Justice Advocates and Molecular Biologists Amount: $179,400 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1632660   Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: Georgia Tech's Scholarship-for-Service (SFS) Program Amount: $4,999,996 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1565523   Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: EXP: Fostering Self-Correcting Reasoning with Reflection Systems Amount: $549,958 Additional Details:   http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1623419         Grant Recipient: Emory University Grant Project Title: BD Spokes: SPOKE: SOUTH: Large-Scale Medical Informatics for Patient Care Coordination and Engagement Amount: $1,000,000 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1636933   Grant Recipient: Georgia State University Research Foundation, Inc. Grant Project Title: Enabling Milliarcsecond Astrophysics: Open access for the CHARA Array Amount: $3,902,331 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=1636624&HistoricalAwards=false   Grant Recipient: Georgia State University Research Foundation, Inc. Grant Project Title: Collaborative Research: Prediction, Optimization and Control for Information Propagation on Networks: A Differential Equation and Mass Transportation Based Approach Amount: $99,770 Additional Details:   http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1620342        Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: Collaborative Research: Prediction, Optimization and Control for Information Propagation on Networks: A Differential Equation and Mass Transportation Based Approach Amount: $164,825 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1620345   Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Applied Research Corporation Grant Project Title: US Ignite: Collaborative Research: Focus Area 1: Fleet Management of Large-Scale Connected and Autonomous Vehicles in Urban Settings Amount: $299,359 Additional Details:   http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1647167        Grant Recipient: Pointivo, Inc. Grant Project Title: SBIR Phase II: Automatic Generation of As-Built BIM Models Using a Single Video Camera Amount: $750,000 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1632248       Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: SI2-SSE: Collaborative Research: High Performance Low Rank Approximation for Scalable Data Analytics Amount: $332,283 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1642410       Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: Collaborative Research: Mixing Learning Experiences for Computer Programming Across Museums, Classrooms, and the Home Using Computational Music Amount: $2,517,690 Additional Details:   http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1612644        Grant Recipient: Emory University Grant Project Title: RCN-UBE:The Neuroscience Case Network (NeuroCaseNet) Amount: $498,814 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1624104       Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: Advancing Computational Thinking in Information Technology Courses Using Integrated Culturally Relevant Science Content and Practices Amount: $2,496,391 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1639946       Grant Recipient: Georgia State University Research Foundation, Inc. Grant Project Title: Enabling Milliarcsecond Astrophysics: Open access for the CHARA Array Amount: $3,902,331 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1636624   Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: Collaborative Research: Workshop on Acquiring and Sharing Data Within the CMMI Research Community; Arlington, Virginia; December 7-8, 2016 Amount: $49,931 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1652999      Grant Recipient: Clark Atlanta University Grant Project Title: Collaborative Research: NSF INCLUDES: An Integrated Approach to Retain Underrepresented Minority Students in STEM Disciplines Amount: $60,621 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1649237   Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: BD Spokes: SPOKE: SOUTH: Collaborative: Smart Grids Big Data Amount: $250,001 Additional Details:   http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1636783        Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: Collaborative Research: Towards an Accurate, High-Fidelity Modeling System for Multiphysics and Multiscale Coastal Ocean Flows Amount: $75,000 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1622453       Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: Collaborative Research: Mixing Learning Experiences for Computer Programming Across Museums, Classrooms, and the Home Using Computational Music Amount: $2,517,690 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=1612644&HistoricalAwards=false       Grant Recipient: Georgia State University Research Foundation, Inc. Grant Project Title: Collaborative Research: Factors of Success in a Community-based, Interactive Engagement Learning Environment: Perspectives from a Minority Serving Institution Amount: $179,347 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1625414   Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: Program to integrate mobile, hands-on experiments into the ME, AE, and ECE curricula Amount: $599,947 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1626362   Any questions regarding this notification should be addressed to NSF’s Office of Legislative and Public Affairs at (703) 292-8070.   National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: Georgia Manufacturing Extension Partnership Amount: $4,489,137 Additional Details:  Georgia Manufacturing Extension Partnership - As a result of the recent Federal Funding Opportunity 2016-NIST-MEP-01, MEP has selected the Georgia Tech Research Corporation to operate the MEP Center in the State of Georgia. This award will be a multi-year award (5 years) cover the period October 1, 2016 - September 30, 2021. NIST Awards Funding to Support Small and Medium-Sized Manufacturers For Immediate Release: Aug. 31, 2016 The U.S. Commerce Department’s National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) will award more than $36 million in annual funding to organizations in 11 states and Puerto Rico, as part of its efforts to enhance the competitiveness of U.S. manufacturers. The five-year funding agreements will support Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) centers, which provide a wide range of services to small and medium-sized manufacturers in every state and Puerto Rico. The awards will go to organizations in Alabama, Arkansas, California, Georgia, Louisiana, Missouri, Montana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, Utah and Vermont and provide funding for the first year of the five-year agreements. Continued funding is subject to the availability of annual appropriations and successful annual reviews. One remaining award from this federal funding opportunity, announced in January 2016, is still in process. The following organizations will sign cooperative agreements to operate centers in their states: • Alabama Technology Network (Montgomery) - $1,780,800 • Arkansas Economic Development Commission (Little Rock) - $971,218 MEP center name: Arkansas Economic Development Commission Manufacturing Solutions • California Manufacturing Technology Consulting (Torrance) - $14,046,449 • Georgia Tech Research Corporation (Atlanta) - $2,693,482 MEP center name: Georgia Manufacturing Extension Partnership • Louisiana Community and Technical College System (Baton Rouge) - $1,197,546 MEP center name: MEPoL • Missouri IncuTech Foundation (Rolla) - $2,207,873 MEP center name: Missouri Enterprise • Montana State University (Bozeman) - $512,000 MEP center name: Montana Manufacturing Extension Center • State of Ohio, Development Services Agency (Columbus) - $5,246,822 MEP center name: Ohio Manufacturing Extension Partnership • Pennsylvania IRC Network Foundation (Williamsport) - $5,280,576 MEP center name: Pennsylvania Manufacturing Extension Partnership • Puerto Rico Manufacturing Extension, Inc. (San Juan) - $643,133 MEP center name: PRIMEX • University of Utah (Salt Lake City) - $1,147,573 MEP center name: University of Utah Manufacturing Extension Partnership • Vermont State Colleges (Randolph Center) - $600,000 MEP center name: Vermont Manufacturing Extension Center Proposals were reviewed by government and independent experts and evaluated against a number of criteria, including demonstration of a thorough understanding of market needs and how proposed service offerings would meet those needs. The reviewers also looked at the proposed business models, performance measurements and metrics, partnership potential, staff qualifications and program management, as well as financial and nonfederal cost-share plans. The new agreement reduces the centers’ cost-share burden by reducing the amount of required matching funds from nonfederal sources. For every dollar of federal investment, MEP clients generate nearly $17 in new sales, which translates into $2.3 billion in new sales annually. And for every $1,900 of federal investment, MEP creates or retains one U.S. manufacturing job. Since 1988, MEP has worked with more than 86,000 manufacturers, leading to $96.4 billion in sales and $15.7 billion in cost savings, and it has helped create nearly 800,000 jobs. Read about some of MEP’s successes on its website. To learn more about NIST, visit www.nist.gov..   Any questions regarding this notification should be addressed to NIST’s General Grants Information line at (301) 975-4714. Department of Transportation (DOT) Grant Recipient: City of Atlanta Grant Project Title: Hartsfield - Jackson Atlanta International: Rehabilitate Taxiway Amount: $12,719,350 Additional Details:  This grant will provide federal funding for the Hartsfield - Jackson Atlanta International Airport in Georgia. This grant is being increased from $2,541,166 to $15,260,516. The increase is based on the availability of additional federal funding. This project will fund the reconstruction of 3,450 feet of existing Taxiway E, E5, L6, F3 and D pavements that require rehabilitation to ensure safe airfield operations. Hartsfield - Jackson Atlanta International Airport is a large-hub primary airport associated with Atlanta, Georgia. Grant Recipient: City of Atlanta Grant Project Title:       Hartsfield - Jackson Atlanta International: Noise Mitigation Measures for Residences within 65 - 69 Amount: $29,730,979 Additional Details:  This grant will provide federal funding for the Hartsfield - Jackson Atlanta International Airport in Georgia. This project provides for the continuing mitigation of airport noise impacted properties within in the 65-69 DNL noise contours surrounding the airport as defined in the 2008 FAA approved Part 150 Study. This project will benefit approximately 2,442 residents in both multi-family and single-family homes and 275 students. Hartsfield - Jackson Atlanta International Airport is a large-hub primary airport associated with Atlanta, Georgia. Grant Recipient: State of Georgia Grant Project Title: Georgia State Block Grant Program: Non primary development projects in state block grant program Amount: $8,339,492 Additional Details:  This grant will provide federal funding for airports in the Georgia State Block Grant Program. This grant includes funding for Cartersville Airport, Congressional District 11, to improve Runway 1/19 Safety Area in the amount of $1,850,000. This is Phase 2 of 4. This grant includes funding for Habersham County Airport, Congressional District 09, to construct a parallel taxiway in the amount of $2,850,000. This is the fourth and final Phase of construction. This grant includes funding for DeKalb-Peachtree Airport, Congressional District 06, to address the locations identified in the national Runway Incursion Mitigation (RIM) program in the amount of $1,000,000. This grant includes funding for Fulton County Airport, Congressional District 05, to address the locations identified in the national Runway Incursion Mitigation (RIM) program in the amount of $1,382,000. This grant includes funding for Cobb County-McCollum Field, Congressional District 11, to rehabilitate the apron in the amount of $1,257,492. Any questions regarding this notification should be addressed to DOT’s Office of Governmental Affairs at (202)366-4573.     Department of Energy (DOE) Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: Pushing the Efficiency Limit of Low-Cost, Industrially-Relevant Silicon Solar Cells by Advancing Cell Structures and Technology Innovations Amount: $1,125,000 (SunShot Award Amount) Additional Details: This project is advancing manufacturable silicon cell technologies to above 22% efficiency through the use of passivated selective emitter and selective back surface field (BSF) contact geometries. The improved contact and metallization methods investigated during the course of the project will reduce recombination and improve cell performance by up to 2% absolute efficiency. Multiple fabrication methodologies will be investigated to determine the most cost-effective method for producing the laterally patterned doping profiles needed to realize this high performance cell technology.   Any questions regarding this notification should be addressed to the Office of Public Affairs division of the DOE at (202) 586-4940.   U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) Grant Recipient: Herman J. Russell Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship Grant Project Title: Construction of Innovation and Entrepreneurship Incubator Amount: $2,922,513 (EDA Investment) Additional Details: This EDA investment funds the design and renovation of an existing building for development of the Russell Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship.  The new facility, which will be constructed to Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) standards, will provide space for over 100 emerging entrepreneurial companies to support long-term disaster recovery efforts by adding economic resiliency to the city of Atlanta through increased economic diversification.  In addition, the project will be a model of public/private partnership to create economic opportunity and inclusive innovation and catalyze transformation of the Atlanta Westside, a designated Promise Zone area.   Any questions regarding this notification should be addressed to the Office of Public Affairs division of the EDA at (202) 482-4085. ####",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-statement-on-the-commissioning-of-the-uss-john-p,CONGRESSMAN BISHOP STATEMENT ON THE COMMISSIONING OF THE USS JOHN P. MURTHA,2016-10-21,2016,2016-10,Democrat,House,GA,Sanford Bishop,B000490,bishop.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C – Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) released the following statement on the October 8, 2016 commissioning ceremony for the USS John P. Murtha (LPD 26): “It has been six years since the passing of my dear friend and mentor, former Congressman John P. Murtha. This past weekend, his life and service was honored with the commissioning of the USS John P. Murtha at Penn’s Landing in Philadelphia. “Congressman Murtha’s mission was to make a difference around the world. He was an honored Marine, a husband and father, and a public servant. He always stood, both literally and figuratively, taller than his peers in courage, honor, dignity, and service to others. He was awarded the American Spirit Honor Medal, the Bronze Star with Valor device, two Purple Hearts, and the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry. “His accomplishments in the armed forces were also paralleled with his distinguished service for the constituents of the 12th Congressional District of Pennsylvania. A Member of the U.S. House of Representatives from 1974-2010, John Murtha was the longest serving Congressman from Pennsylvania, and served as Chairman and Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Committee’s Subcommittee on Defense. “During his time in Congress, he stood as a champion for our men and women serving in the military. He took a personal interest in the needs of our front line troops and was a staunch advocate for providing our service members with the very best equipment and hardware. He worked tirelessly to ensure our armed services were provided with the resources necessary to remain the greatest military force in the world. “The 10th San Antonio class amphibious transport dock ship in the Navy, the USS John P. Murtha was originally launched on October 30, 2014, christened on March 21, 2015, delivered to the US Navy on May 13, 2016, and formally commissioned as the USS John P. Murtha on October 8, 2016. Much like our great nation, the ship boasts a diverse crew. The ship’s crewmembers represent 50 states and US territories. Approximately 21% of the 400 sailors on the ship are women, and the crew includes immigrants from 16 foreign countries. “The USS John P. Murtha serves as a reminder of the former Congressman’s mission, and advice on how we should all live our lives: that we should all strive to make a positive difference in the world.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/johnson-leads-bipartisan-call-investigation-anticompetitive-practices,Johnson Leads Bipartisan Call for Investigation of Anticompetitive Practices in the App Marketplace,2016-10-19,2016,2016-10,Democrat,House,GA,Hank Johnson,J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Henry C. “Hank” Johnson, Jr., the Ranking Member of the Antitrust Subcommittee of the House Judiciary Committee, has called on the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to investigate concerns regarding anticompetitive activity in the app marketplace. Earlier this year, The Washington Post reported that numerous developers have raised concerns with anticompetitive practices in this market, such as onerous conditions applicable to rival apps that may create an uneven playing field. “It is critical that we promote and defend competition, even in markets that are highly innovative, to ensure that small entrants aren’t squeezed out through needlessly restrictive conditions and policies,” Johnson stated. “I strongly encourage the FTC to give this issue the close attention that it deserves.” Johnson is joined on the bipartisan letter by U.S. Reps. F. James Sensenbrenner, Jr. (R-WI), Sheila Jackson Lee (D-TX), Lamar Smith (R-TX), David Cicilline (D-RI), and Dave Trott (R-MI), who express concerns in the letter that “these practices will stifle innovation and decrease channels for distributing the products of application and service developers, resulting in fewer and less cost-effective choices for consumers.” Johnson has championed efforts to increase privacy, security, and choice in the app marketplace. He has introduced H.R. 4517, the Application Privacy, Protection and Security (APPS) Act of 2016, a bill to increase consumer privacy on mobile devices; and H.R. 4516, the Data Broker Accountability and Transparency (DATA) Act of 2016, which would prohibit data brokers from using consumer data deceptively, empowering consumers to access and correct information, and opt-out of data use for marketing purposes. October 19, 2016    The Honorable Edith Ramirez Chair Federal Trade Commission 600 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20580   Dear Chairwoman Ramirez: It is our understanding that some independent and small technology developers have raised concerns with the Federal Trade Commission that the increasing difficulty that app developers have in reaching and communicating with customers in some app ecosystems may undermine competition in digital services and products distribution. We are concerned that these practices will stifle innovation and decrease channels for distributing the products of application and service developers, resulting in fewer and less cost-effective choices for consumers. As Members of the United States House of Representatives serving on the Committee on the Judiciary, we are committed to ensuring a competitive marketplace for all companies online, including new entrants and small competitors. Accordingly, we ask that the Commission carefully consider these concerns.  We believe the Commission has the statutory authority to fairly regulate the market and enforce the antitrust laws to promote competition and protect consumers. If it is not within the Commission’s authority, we welcome your suggestions as to how Congress may act to remedy any deficiencies in the Commission’s authority concerning this matter.  Please respond to us regarding these concerns by no later than November 19, 2016.  Sincerely, _______________________________ Henry C. “Hank” Johnson, Jr. Member of Congress _______________________________ F. James Sensenbrenner, Jr. Member of Congress _______________________________ David Cicilline Member of Congress      _______________________________ Lamar Smith Member of Congress _______________________________ Sheila Jackson Lee Member of Congress     _______________________________ Dave Trott Member of Congress      ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-johnson-applauds-dea-decision-withdraw-banning-kratom,Rep. Johnson applauds DEA decision to withdraw kratom ban,2016-10-13,2016,2016-10,Democrat,House,GA,Hank Johnson,J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Agency will now hold public comment period until Dec. 1 LITHONIA, GA – This week, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) reversed its decision to ban the use of kratom, a plant that researchers say could help fight the opioid epidemic. On Sept. 30, Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) – along with colleague Mark Pocan (WI-02) – penned a letter to U.S. Attorney General Loretta Lynch objecting to the DEA’s hasty decision to classify kratom as a Schedule 1 substance without first going through its normal classification and rulemaking process. Notice of the DEA withdrawing its intent to ban the drug will appear in the Federal Register today. “I appreciate Attorney General Lynch listening to our concerns,” said Rep. Johnson. “And we appreciate the DEA’s desire to protect the American people from potentially harmful substances. In this case though, the DEA overstepped its authority and went straight to ban kratom without proper review and studies and without defending its view to Congress.” Kratom is a plant in the coffee family found primarily in Southeast Asia. Many consumers use kratom to treat pain and wean themselves off more powerful, dangerous opioids. Researchers working with kratom say they are trying to develop a non-addictive painkiller alternative to powerful opioids. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) reports that opioids contributed to the deaths of more than 28,600 Americans in 2014. The DEA will now open a public comment period until Dec. 1 and is asking the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) to fast-track “scientific and medical evaluation and scheduling recommendation” for the active chemical compounds in kratom. Letter to AG Lynch September 30, 2016 Honorable Loretta E. Lynch Attorney General U.S. Department of Justice 950 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20530-0001 Dear Attorney General Lynch, We are writing to object to DEA’s hasty decision to classify the drug known as Kratom as a Schedule I substance. In particular, we are troubled by the DEA’s irregular deviation from its classification procedure in order to list Kratom as a Schedule I substance. We call on you to stay the effective date of this proposed rule. In order to schedule a drug, the DEA must undertake a rulemaking process, which involves consultation with the FDA, notice of the proposed rule in the Federal Register, and an opportunity for public comment and a hearing. Under this standard process, DEA must consider eight factors as part of its analysis, as listed in 21 U.S.C. § 811(c). However, in its decision to classify Kratom as a Schedule I substance, DEA instead utilized a statutory authority to temporarily bypass the rulemaking process as well as the notice and public comment period. However, under 5 U.S.C. § 705, an agency may postpone the effective date of an action when justice requires it. As the head of the Department of Justice, which oversees the DEA, we ask you to stay the effective date of this rule, so that the appropriate notice and public comment period may take place. Congress granted DEA this authority in response to the emergence of “designer drugs.” Designer drugs are those newly invented or newly produced in laboratories and are designed to mimic the effects of scheduled substances while avoiding federal regulation. Kratom, though relatively new to the United States, does not fit this description. It is a natural substance that has been used in other parts of the world for centuries. Furthermore, Congress granted DEA this emergency authority “to avoid imminent hazards to public safety.” While a recent CDC study does note the number of calls to poison control centers mentioning Kratom use has increased, the data does not indicate that Kratom was solely responsible for the calls. Without more concrete data and analysis, it is difficult to claim Kratom represents an “imminent hazard.” Access to improved data and further studies will now be impossible to gather should Kratom be scheduled as Schedule I substance. We appreciate the DEA’s desire to protect Americans from potentially harmful substances. However, in this case DEA has overstepped its authority in a manner that is inconsistent with the intent of the statutory authority it was given by Congress. In effect, the DEA removed any opportunity for the agency to be held accountable for its decision making. If the DEA believes that Kratom is of notable detriment to Americans and wishes for it to be scheduled, it should follow normal procedure and rigorously defend its views to Congress, the FDA and the public. It is for these reasons you should stay the effective date of rule and allow for the appropriate notice and comment period to take place. We thank you for your consideration and look forward to your timely response.   Sincerely,                                Henry C. “Hank” Johnson, Jr.                                                  Mark Pocan Member of Congress                                                              Member of Congress   ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/advisory-rep-johnson-s-district-office-moving-new-location,Advisory: Rep. Johnsons district office moving to new location,2016-10-11,2016,2016-10,Democrat,House,GA,Hank Johnson,J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,,,legacy,"LITHONIA, GA – This month, Rep. Hank Johnson (GA-04) is moving his district office from Hillandale Drive to Snapfinger Park Drive, about 1.2 miles away. WHO:     Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04); WHAT:    Moving offices from 5700 Hillandale Drive in Lithonia to 5240 Snapfinger Park Drive in Decatur 30035, Suite 130; WHEN:    Hillandale Drive office will close Thursday, Oct. 27 and the new office on Snapfinger Park Drive will open on Monday, Oct. 31; WHERE: 5240 Snapfinger Park Drive suite 130 in Decatur 30035. The new office is off Panola Road near I-20 behind This Is It! restaurant.  The Congressional office phone number will remain 770-987-2291. Click HERE for Google Maps.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://davidscott.house.gov/blog/?postid=397752,Owe more on your mortgage than your home is worth?,2016-10-05,2016,2016-10,Democrat,House,GA,David Scott,S001157,davidscott.house.gov,,,legacy,"Don’t drown in your mortgage   Do you owe more on your mortgage than your home is worth?   A new, limited-time, federally funded state initiative called Underwater Georgia (www.underwatergeorgia.org) may be able to help.   For eligible applicants, Underwater Georgia may be able to provide a one-time payment of up to $50,000 to reduce the principal balance on your home.   From now until Oct. 18, visit underwatergeorgia.org to determine if you may qualify and begin a pre-application. Because demand for the program is expected to far surpass total resources available, Underwater Georgia will operate through a random third-party selection process. Once funds have been exhausted, the program will close.   To qualify, homeowners must meet several criteria about how long they’ve owned the home, total mortgage balance and loan to value ratio, total household income and assets, and other factors. Applicants cannot have previously received assistance through HomeSafe Georgia.   Don’t miss this limited-time opportunity to see if you qualify. Visit underwatergeorgia.org today.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://davidscott.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=397749,"Congressman David Scott, U.S. Postal Service Announce Ceremony Renaming Riverdale Post Office in honor of Major Gregory E. Barney",2016-10-04,2016,2016-10,Democrat,House,GA,David Scott,S001157,davidscott.house.gov,,,legacy,"On Saturday, October 22, 2016, Congressman David Scott will join the Barney Family, U.S. postal officials, and members of the community for a public ceremony designating the Riverdale Post Office Church Street Station in honor of fallen officer Major Gregory E. Barney. WHO:             Congressman David Scott, the Barney Family, Senator Johnny Isakson, Congressman Lynn Westmoreland, U.S. Postal Service officials, Riverdale Mayor Evelyn Wynn-Dixon, Clayton County Commission Chairman Jeff Turner, Riverdale Police Chief Todd Spivey, and community members. WHAT:          Ceremony designating the Riverdale Post Office, located at 6691 Church Street in Riverdale, Ga., as the “Major Gregory E. Barney Post Office Building.”  WHEN:          Saturday, October 22, 2016, 11:00 a.m. WHERE:       Riverdale Town Centre, 7210 Church Street, Riverdale, GA 30274 WHY:             On February 11, 2016, Major Barney, was shot and killed while giving chase to a suspect during a raid on an illegal drug operation.  Major Barney was a 25-year veteran of the Riverdale Police Department.  During his career in Riverdale, Major Barney was a school resource officer at Riverdale High School, a sergeant and a captain.  In 2004, Barney became the first African-American to serve as Chief of Police when appointed Interim Chief. “I am honored to pay tribute to Major Gregory E. Barney and his legacy with the renaming of the Riverdale Post Office in his honor,” said Congressman Scott. “Major Barney’s commitment to the Riverdale community and beyond makes this post office renaming a worthy salute. And it gives me great pleasure to invite all area residents to join me and the Barney family to celebrate Major Barney’s exceptional record of service.” Congressman Scott authored H.R. 4747, legislation designating the Riverdale Post Office in Major Gregory Barney’s honor. The legislation passed the House of Representatives unanimously on May 24, 2016, and also passed unanimously in the Senate on July 14, 2016.  President Barack Obama signed the measure into law on July 29, 2016.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://davidscott.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=397751,"Scott, Lewis, Conyers and Waters Urge Inclusive Search for New Atlanta Fed President",2016-10-04,2016,2016-10,Democrat,House,GA,David Scott,S001157,davidscott.house.gov,,,legacy,"Reps. David Scott (D-GA), a senior member of the Financial Services Committee; John Lewis (D-GA), a senior member of the House Ways & Means Committee; John Conyers, Jr. (D-MI), Ranking Member on the Judiciary Committee; and Maxine Waters (D-CA), Ranking Member on the Financial Services Committee, urged the Federal Reserve to conduct an inclusive, transparent search for the next President of the Reserve Bank of Atlanta, one that engages candidates from many diverse backgrounds. In a letter to Federal Reserve Chair Janet Yellen and Thomas Fanning, Chairman of the Atlanta Fed, the Members emphasized the need for Federal Reserve policymakers to account for our nations grave racial disparities in terms of unemployment, wages, and income in the development of monetary policy, especially since the economic downturn severely damaged the already tenuous financial security of traditionally underserved communities. In the sixth Federal Reserve district, where the new president will serve, unemployment and poverty rates for African Americans, for example, are about double those for white Americans. Presidents of the 11 other reserve banks have all worked for major financial firms or at the Federal Reserve before their appointments. The Members urged the Fedto consider a wider range of backgrounds, including academia, labor, and non-profit institutions, to capture the perspectives of all Americans as they develop economic policy. Since the appointment of Andrew Brimmer to the Federal Reserve Board of Governors by Lyndon Johnson, there have been only a few minority governors, and no African American or Latino bank presidents have ever been appointed. Currently there is one Asian bank president, Neel Kashkari, who heads the Reserve Bank of Minneapolis. This letter is a follow-up to one sent by 127 Democrats in both the House and Senate in May, urging the Federal Reserve to increase diversity in its executive ranks. The Federal Reserve has an opportunity to do something very significant with the recent retirement announcement of the current President of the Atlanta Federal Bank, said Rep. David Scott. Weve never had an African American Regional Fed president. Im asking the Federal Reserve to take this opportunity to make history. We have many exceptionally qualified African Americans who can do this. With this search, the Federal Reserve has a unique opportunity to restore confidence in our financial system by including the perspectives and experiences of a wider range of Americans, Rep. John Lewis said. Metro Atlanta was hit hard by the Great Recession, and many people in the South are still mired in poverty due to that downturn. In light of recent crises, the Federal Reserve shouldlook far and wide to find the best person for this important job, not only within its own network. The Fed has a responsibility to ensure that the financial needs of the most vulnerable are considered within the policymaking process. Selecting the first African-American or Latino Regional Bank president would be a historic milestone for the Federal Reserve, and I greatly appreciate Chair Yellens focus on increasing diversity. But given the Feds long history of prioritizing low inflation over job creation, the candidate also should be truly committed to full employment and possess deep knowledge of labor market disparities that too often leave workers, especially workers of color, behind, said Rep. John Conyers, Jr., Ranking Member on the House Judiciary Committee and chair of the Congressional Full Employment Caucus. On September 13, Atlanta Federal Reserve President Dennis Lockhart announced his retirement, effective in February 2017. To find a new president, the Directors of the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta will identify and consider candidates, who then must be interviewed and approved by the Federal Reserve Board of Governors. The Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta is one of 12 regional Reserve Banks and covers Georgia, Florida, Alabama, eastern Tennessee, southern Mississippi, and southern Louisiana.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://johnlewis.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/lewis-scott-conyers-and-waters-urge-inclusive-search-new-atlanta-fed,"Lewis, Scott, Conyers, and Waters Urge Inclusive Search for New Atlanta Fed President",2016-10-04,2016,2016-10,Democrat,House,GA,John Lewis,L000287,johnlewis.house.gov,,,legacy,"Reps. John Lewis (D-GA), a senior member of the House Ways & Means Committee; David Scott (D-GA), a senior member of the Financial Services Committee; John Conyers, Jr. (D-MI), Ranking Member on the Judiciary Committee; and Maxine Waters (D-CA), Ranking Member on the Financial Services Committee, urged the Federal Reserve to conduct an inclusive, transparent search for the next President of the Reserve Bank of Atlanta, one that engages candidates from many diverse backgrounds. In a letter to Federal Reserve Chair Janet Yellen and Thomas Fanning, Chairman of the Atlanta Fed, the Members emphasized the need for Federal Reserve policymakers to account for our nation’s grave racial disparities in terms of unemployment, wages, and income in the development of monetary policy, especially since the economic downturn severely damaged the already tenuous financial security of traditionally underserved communities.  In the sixth Federal Reserve district, where the new president will serve, unemployment and poverty rates for African Americans, for example, are about double those for white Americans. Presidents of the 11 other reserve banks have all worked for major financial firms or at the Federal Reserve before their appointments.  The Members urged the Fed to consider a wider range of backgrounds, including academia, labor, and non-profit institutions, to capture the perspectives of all Americans as they develop economic policy.  Since the appointment of Andrew Brimmer to the Federal Reserve Board of Governors by Lyndon Johnson, there have been only a few minority governors, and no African American or Latino bank presidents have ever been appointed.  Currently there is one Asian bank president, Neel Kashkari, who heads the Reserve Bank of Minneapolis.  This letter is a follow-up to one sent by 127 Democrats in both the House and Senate in May, urging the Federal Reserve to increase diversity in its executive ranks. “With this search, the Federal Reserve has a unique opportunity to restore confidence in our financial system by including the perspectives and experiences of a wider range of Americans,” Rep. John Lewis said.  “Metro Atlanta was hit hard by the Great Recession, and many people in the South are still mired in poverty due to that downturn.  In light of recent crises, the Federal Reserve should look far and wide to find the best person for this important job, not only within its own network.  The Fed has a responsibility to ensure that the financial needs of the most vulnerable are considered within the policymaking process.” “The Federal Reserve has an opportunity to do something very significant with the recent retirement announcement of the current President of the Atlanta Federal Bank,” said Rep. David Scott.  “We’ve never had an African American Regional Fed president.  I’m asking the Federal Reserve to take this opportunity to make history.  We have many exceptionally qualified African Americans who can do this.” “Selecting the first African-American or Latino Regional Bank president would be a historic milestone for the Federal Reserve, and I greatly appreciate Chair Yellen’s focus on increasing diversity.  But given the Fed’s long history of prioritizing low inflation over job creation, the candidate also should be truly committed to full employment and possess deep knowledge of labor market disparities that too often leave workers, especially workers of color, behind,” said Rep. John Conyers, Jr., Ranking Member on the House Judiciary Committee and chair of the Congressional Full Employment Caucus. On September 13, Atlanta Federal Reserve President Dennis Lockhart announced his retirement, effective in February 2017.  To find a new president, the Directors of the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta will identify and consider candidates, who then must be interviewed and approved by the Federal Reserve Board of Governors.  The Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta is one of 12 regional Reserve Banks and covers Georgia, Florida, Alabama, eastern Tennessee, southern Mississippi, and southern Louisiana. ### Letter to Chair Yellen and Chair Fanning about Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta presidential search",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/e-newsletters/congressman-hank-johnsons-e-newsletter-sept-29-2016,"Congressman Hank Johnson's E-Newsletter for Sept. 29, 2016",2016-10-03,2016,2016-10,Democrat,House,GA,Hank Johnson,J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Dear Friends, I voted this week to fund the government until after the Nov. 8 General Election. While it wasn’t everything I had hoped for, it does provide $1.1 billion for address the Zika crisis and increased funding for our military and veteran caregivers, which strengthens the support for America’s Hidden Heroes. I also feel confident that Congressional leaders smoothed over a final impasse by committing to include financial help for Flint's contaminated water system in subsequent legislation expected to clear in the lame-duck session after the elections. For more, click HERE. NEW RULES PROTECT SENIORS: The U.S. Department of Health & Human Services issued a rule this week to prohibit nursing homes that do business with Medicare or Medicaid from inserting forced arbitration clauses into their patient contracts. This rule is a watershed moment in the protection of consumer rights. Last year, I called on the agency to strengthen the rule, so I’m pleased they have listened to our input. For more, click HERE. ELECTION SECURITY & INTEGRITY: This month, I introduced the “Election Infrastructure and Security Promotion Act” that requires the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) designate our voting systems as critical infrastructure and the “Election Integrity Act,” which will limit the purchase of any new voting systems that do not provide durable voter-verified paper ballots. In the wake of the DNC server hack and well-documented efforts by states to suppress the vote, citizens are rightly concerned. We must work to reduce the vulnerability of our crucial voting systems, protect the security and integrity of our electoral process, and ensure all Americans have the opportunity to vote. For more, click HERE. UNDERWATER HOMEOWNERS: The state Department of Community Affairs is putting federal funds to work to help underwater homeowners – residents who owe more on their mortgages than the homes are worth – keep their homes. Homeowners in Conyers, Covington, Decatur and Stone Mountain are some of the hardest hit in the state. The program provides up to $50,000 to people who are underwater on their mortgages. For more, click HERE.  TAX SIMPLIFICATION: I’m honored to report that my bipartisan “Mobile Workforce State Income Tax Simplification Act” passed the House of Representatives last week. The bill – with 179 House colleagues in support on both sides of the aisle – streamlines the state income tax code across the country by setting a 30-day threshold before non-resident state income taxes take effect for employees who must travel for work. I hope the Senate takes up the legislation immediately so we can send it to the President's desk for his signature. For more, click HERE.. For more, click HERE. REPORT CONFIRMS NEED FOR MY BILL: The U.S. Commission on Civil Rights issued a report that found the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Final Coal Ash Rule disproportionately impacts low-income and communities of color and places the burden of enforcement on these communities. The findings support the need for my bill, the Coal Ash Landfill Safety Act of 2016 (CALSA). CALSA would protect citizens from dangerous coal ash being disposed in municipal landfills, which are not equipped to handle the toxic substance, and requires the EPA to re-examine its rules to determine if such criteria are as protective of health and the environment. For more, click HERE.  USDA GRANTS IN DISTRICT 4: I’m pleased to report that Global Growers Network in Stone Mountain will receive U.S. Department of Agriculture grants to help protect food safety and fund the Clarkston Food Initiative. Federal grants are an important way for us to work with local partners to improve the quality of life for our constituents. For more, click HERE.  AFRICAN-AMERICAN HISTORY MUSEUM: It was the thrill of a lifetime to attend the grand opening of The National Museum of African American History & Culture on Sept. 24. At the same time, I know that our great country has a long way to go to fulfill the promise that all people are created – and treated – equal. As Atlanta Journal-Constitution talented staff writer Ernie Suggs said in a recent column, “This wondrous new museum is America. But Charlotte and Ferguson and Tulsa are America, too.” Well said. To read more on Suggs’ thoughts , click HERE. Photo above: With pre-eminent scholar Dr. Henry Louis Gates Jr. during the opening ceremony. USDA GRANTS IN DISTRICT 4: I’m pleased to report that Global Growers Network in Stone Mountain will receive U.S. Department of Agriculture grants to help protect food safety and fund the Clarkston Food Initiative. Federal grants are an important way for us to work with local partners to improve the quality of life for our constituents. For more, click HERE.  FUNDS FOR COVINGTON: Federal funds are also being put to good use in Covington, where a community drainage project will receive $500,000 in Community Development Block Grants. It’s a great example of how our federal and state governments work together for the betterment of our state and communities. FIGHT MEDICARE FRAUD: Medicare fraud wastes a lot of money each year and results in higher health care costs and taxes for everyone. Con artists commit Medicare fraud by getting people’s Medicare number. You can help fight Medicare fraud in 2 simple steps: Never give your Medicare number to get a free offer or gift; and Always check your Medicare statement for errors, like equipment or services you never got. Protect your Medicare by protecting your Medicare number. For more, click HERE. FOR YOUR/MORE INFORMATION: Housing Help | Jobs Center | Healthcare | Small Businesses Seniors | Students | Veterans | Help with a Federal Agency | Zika Prevention | Opioid Resource Guide As always, I appreciate your time and feedback. Please remember you can reach me on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and now on Tumblr as well as e-mails, phone calls and letters. Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to represent you in Congress.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/editorials/americas-funding-honduran-security-forces-puts-blood-our-hands,America's funding of Honduran security forces puts blood on our hands,2016-10-03,2016,2016-10,Democrat,House,GA,Hank Johnson,J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,,,legacy,"The Guardian: America's funding of Honduran security forces puts blood on our hands: https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/jul/08/american-funding-honduran-security-forces-blood-on-our-hands | Originally published July 8, 2016 On 2 March 2016, armed men burst into the home of Berta Cáceres, a prominent environmental and indigenous activist in Honduras, and shot her to death. Earlier that day, the government had rescinded Ms Cáceres’s meager security detail, leaving her unprotected. Of the 33 threats against her, including death threats, none had been investigated. Members of the Honduran military have been implicated in her murder, and requests by the global community for an independent investigation have been ignored.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/editorials/what-comes-after-isis-matters,What comes after ISIS matters,2016-10-03,2016,2016-10,Democrat,House,GA,Hank Johnson,J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Boston Globe: What comes after ISIS matters: https://www.bostonglobe.com/opinion/2015/11/18/what-comes-after-isis-matters/wzC3nfzaowI9UdutoZcjTP/story.html | Original published November 19, 2015.  As we recover from the recent devastating ISIS attacks in Paris, Beirut, Ankara, and over the Sinai, we must take a moment to step back and breathe. The instinctive reaction in circumstances like these is to heed the call to rush ground troops to Syria and Iraq to destroy ISIS, but after 15 years of war, tens of thousands of US casualties, and trillions of dollars, any further escalation against ISIS must be deliberate and well planned.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/rep-johnson-new-national-museum-african-american-history-culture,Rep. Johnson on the new National Museum of African American History & Culture,2016-10-03,2016,2016-10,Democrat,House,GA,Hank Johnson,J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,,,legacy,"CSPAN: Rep. Johnson on the new National Museum of African American History & Culture: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6fImUXYa6AU | First aired on Sept. 23, 2016.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-supports-passage-of-continuing-resolution-to-avert,CONGRESSMAN BISHOP SUPPORTS PASSAGE OF CONTINUING RESOLUTION TO AVERT GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWN,2016-09-29,2016,2016-09,Democrat,House,GA,Sanford Bishop,B000490,bishop.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) voted in support of H.R. 5325, a Continuing Resolution that funds the federal government past September 30. The legislation continues funding for government operations through December 9, 2016, with the exception of military construction and the Department of Veteran Affairs, which is provided full fiscal year 2017 funding. The legislation also includes $1.1 billion in funding to combat the Zika virus and $500 million to assist communities impacted by recent floods. “I am heartened that Congress was able to come together to avert a government shutdown that would have negatively and dramatically harmed our economy. As Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Military Construction and Veteran Affairs, I am particularly pleased that the legislation includes full year funding for construction within the Department of Defense and full year funding for the VA and its programs for our nation’s veterans.” “In times of disaster, it is imperative that we come together to support our neighbors. This legislation will help the victims of the recent floods rebuild their lives, and the resources this bill provides to combat the Zika virus will be a boon to communities and families already being impacted by this terrible threat.” The legislation was passed by the full House of Representatives late yesterday evening in a vote of 342 to 85. The Senate passed identical legislation yesterday afternoon in a vote of 72 to 26. The President is expected to sign the bill into law by the end of the week. During the debate on H.R. 5325, Congressman Bishop provided formal remarks on the House floor on the military construction and VA portions of the bill. Video of these remarks can be found here. Additional detail on the contents of the Continuing Resolution can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-johnson-calls-hearing-unprecedented-wave-consolidation-agricultural,Rep. Johnson Calls for Hearing on 'Unprecedented Wave of Consolidation' in the Agricultural Industry,2016-09-29,2016,2016-09,Democrat,House,GA,Hank Johnson,J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Hank Johnson (GA-04), Ranking Member of the Judiciary Subcommitee on Regulatory Reform and Antitrust Law (RRCAL), requested a hearing to address the alarming and unprecedented wave of consolidation in the agricultural sector: “The proposed DowDuPont, Bayer-Monsanto, and ChemChina-Syngenta mergers are some of the most significant developments in modern industrial history,” Johnson stated. “Our nation’s farmers and consumers deserve more and better choices, not less innovation and higher prices. I believe that a hearing is necessary to provide additional oversight into this issue. A close examination of these transactions by the Subcommittee on Regulatory Reform, Commercial and Antitrust Law would offer a productive opportunity to discuss consolidation in these markets generally and whether potential reforms or stronger enforcement are necessary to encourage competition.” Rep. Johnson’s letter to Judiciary Chairman Bob Goodlatte is below. September 29, 2016 The Honorable Bob Goodlatte Chairman Committee on the Judiciary U.S. House of Representatives 2138 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 Dear Chairman Goodlatte, I write to request a hearing to address the alarming and unprecedented wave of consolidation in the agricultural sector. The proposed DowDuPont, Bayer-Monsanto, and ChemChina-Syngenta mergers are some of the most significant developments in modern industrial history and may have devastating repercussions for our Nation’s farmers and consumers.   Today, only six firms—Monsanto, Syngenta, Bayer, DuPont, Dow and BASF—operate the majority of the agricultural biotechnology, seed, and chemical sectors.[1] I am concerned that the proposed mergers of DowDuPont, Bayer-Monsanto, and ChemChina-Syngenta would result in even more consolidation in these markets, undermining innovation and resulting in fewer choices and higher prices for farmers and consumers.[2] Individually, these proposed mergers would likely reshape these industries in fundamental ways with far-reaching and indeterminable consequences. Collectively, these transactions are almost certain to reduce significantly competition. As Senate Judiciary Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-IA) recently observed, this industry is “on the precipice of a significant structural transformation” as the waves of consolidation in these markets have “become a tsunami.”[3] American farmers and consumers deserve more and better choices, not less innovation and higher prices. I believe that a hearing is necessary to provide additional oversight into this issue. A close examination of these transactions by the Subcommittee on Regulatory Reform, Commercial and Antitrust Law would offer a productive opportunity to discuss consolidation in these markets generally and whether potential reforms or stronger enforcement is necessary to encourage competition.  If you have any questions concerning this matter, please contact my subcommittee counsel, Slade Bond, at (202) 225-6906. Sincerely, Henry C. “Hank” Johnson, Jr. Ranking Member Subcommittee on Regulatory Reform,  Commercial and Antitrust Law Committee on the Judiciary ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-johnson-applauds-rule-protect-nursing-home-residents-forced,Rep. Johnson Applauds Rule to Protect Nursing-Home Residents from Forced Arbitration,2016-09-28,2016,2016-09,Democrat,House,GA,Hank Johnson,J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Hank Johnson (GA-04) issued the following statement after the Department of Health & Human Services issued a rule Wednesday to prohibit nursing homes that do business with Medicare or Medicaid from inserting forced arbitration clauses into their patient contracts: “This rule is a watershed moment in the protection of consumer rights. Last year, I called on the agency to strengthen the proposed rule, which would not have adequately protected residents. In recognition of these concerns, the final rule will ensure that arbitration is truly voluntary and only occurs after a dispute has arisen. For far too long, forced arbitration clauses have deprived nursing-home residents and their families of the right to their day in court for every cause of action against unscrupulous caregivers. I thank Acting Administrator Slavitt for this strong rule that rejects the well-documented harms associated with forced arbitration.” According to The New York Times, the rule will affect 1.5 million nursing home residents and promises to deliver major new protections. Congressman Johnson is the author of the Arbitration Fairness Act and ranking member of the House Judiciary Subcommittee on Regulatory Reform, Commercial and Antitrust Law, which exercises jurisdiction over issues of arbitration. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-johnson-introduces-bill-support-empower-lgbtq-students-hbcus,"Rep. Johnson introduces bill to support, empower LGBTQ students at HBCUs",2016-09-26,2016,2016-09,Democrat,House,GA,Hank Johnson,J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman’s legislation would authorize Title III funds to establish on-campus resource centers WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) introduced today the “Inclusive Campuses Act of 2016” (H.R. 6164) to authorize the use of Title III funds to establish on-campus resource centers for LGBTQ students at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and other minority serving institutions. Title III provides federal grant funding to assist state and local education agencies. It began as part of the Higher Education Act of 1965, which authorizes funds to enhance and strengthen HBCUs and other minority servicing institutions. “We should be doing all we can to help everyone feel welcomed and included,” said Johnson, a graduate of Clark Atlanta University and the Thurgood Marshall School of Law in Houston. “As a proud graduate of two HBCUs, I feel this legislation is crucial in continuing the legacy of community and inclusion I felt as a student.”  Less than 30 percent of HBCUs have active university-sanctioned LGBTQ-specific organizations on their campuses. Additionally, less than 20 percent of HBCUs include gender identity/expression and sexual orientation in their nondiscrimination statements. Often times, this has led to the alienation and emotional distress of LGBTQ students while creating campus environments of fearful silence and passive intolerance. By building upon the innovative efforts to establish LGBTQ resource centers at North Carolina Central University, Bowie State University and Fayetteville State University, the bill will promote full diversity, acceptance and inclusion of all students who attend HBCUs and other minority serving institutions. The bill has been referred to the House Committee on Education and the Workforce. Groups supporting the Inclusive Campuses Act include: Consortium of Higher Education LGBT Resource Professionals, Campus Pride, National Black Justice Coalition, Trans Student Educational Resources and Fayetteville State University. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://johnlewis.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-john-lewis-remarks-dedication-national-museum-african-american,Rep. John Lewis' Remarks at the Dedication of the National Museum of African American History and Culture,2016-09-24,2016,2016-09,Democrat,House,GA,John Lewis,L000287,johnlewis.house.gov,,,legacy,"Watch Congressman Lewis' Remarks Here President and Mrs. Obama, Vice President Biden, Dr. Jill Biden, President and Mrs. Bush, President Clinton, Mr. Chief Justice and members of the Board of Regents...  To the museum Advisory Council, Secretary David Skorton, and Dr. Lonnie Bunch...  To the leadership of the U.S. Congress, and all my colleagues in both the House and Senate... In memory of the late Rep. Mickey Leland of Texas... To the District of Columbia, the architects of this incredible building... To all the staff of the White House, the federal agencies, the Congress, the Smithsonian who pushed and pulled together to help make this moment happen, and to all the construction companies and their crews -- I say thank you.   Thank you for all you did to help lead our society to this magnificent day.  As long as there is a United States of America, now there will be a National Museum of African American History and Culture.  This is a great achievement.   I tell you, I feel like singing the song Mahalia Jackson sung at the March on Washington over 50 years ago, ""How We Got Over.""  There were some who said it couldn't happen, who said ""You can't do it,"" but we did it, we did it! We are gathered here today to dedicate a building, but this place is more than a building.  It is a dream come true.  You and I -- each and every one of us -- were caught up in a seed of light.  We were a vision, born in the minds of black Civil War veterans and their supporters.  They met right here in Washington, DC, in 1916, exactly 100 years ago, at 19th Street Baptist Church, still in existence today.  Oh say!  Oh say!  See what a dream can do! If you could roll up the sleeves of those veterans or touch the rubble on their backs, you might find the wounds of shackles and whips.  Most could not read the Declaration of Independence or write their own names, but in their hearts burned an enduring vision of true democracy that no threat of death could ever erase.  They understood the meaning of their contribution.  They set a possibility in motion -- passing down through the ages from heart to heart and breath to breath -- that we are giving birth to today. This museum is a testament to the dignity of the dispossessed in every corner of the globe who yearn for freedom.  It is a song to the scholars and scribes, scientists and teachers, to the revolutionaries and the voices of protest, to the ministers and the authors of peace.  It is the story of life -- the story of our lives -- wrapped up in a beautiful, golden crown of grace.  I can hear the distant voice of our ancestors whispering by the night fire, ""Steal away, Steal away home.  We ain't got long to stay here.""  Or a big, bold choir shouting, ""I woke up this morning with my mind stayed on freedom.""  All their voices -- roaming for centuries -- have finally found their home here, in this great monument to our pain, our suffering, and our victory. When I was a little child growing up in rural Alabama, a short walk to the cotton fields, but hundreds of miles from the Washington Monument or the Lincoln Memorial, my teachers would tell us to cut out photographs and pictures of great African Americans for Carter G. Woodson's Negro History Week, now called African American History Month.  I became inspired by the stories of George Washington Carver, Jackie Robinson, Rosa Parks, and so many others whose life and work will be enshrined in this museum.  As these doors open, it is my hope that each and every person who visits this beautiful museum will walk away deeply inspired -- filled with a greater respect for the dignity and the worth of every human being and a stronger commitment to the ideals of justice, equality, and true democracy.   Thank you.                                                                         #####",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://bishop.house.gov/media-center/congressional-record-statements/in-honor-of-dr-robert-l-wright,IN HONOR OF DR. ROBERT L. WRIGHT,2016-09-23,2016,2016-09,Democrat,House,GA,Sanford Bishop,B000490,bishop.house.gov,,,legacy,"Mr. Bishop of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a talented businessman, philanthropist, and civil rights activist, Dr. Robert Lee Wright, who served as Chairman of the National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC) Plan for Action Presidential Commission. Dr. Wright played an integral role in the development of this nation’s greatest tribute to the tragic but triumphant story of the African-American community. The National Museum of African American History and Culture is a crucial patch that has finally and rightfully been sewn into the quilt of American history. Though the seams may be laden by injustice and oppression, the focal point is the recognition of the vital role African Americans played in the establishment and evolution of this nation and its culture, all of which would not be possible without the valuable contributions of Dr. Robert Wright. Dr. Wright’s remarkable journey began in a segregated Columbus, Georgia sweltering with the heat of racial injustice. He was the son of a bricklayer and nurse. He graduated from Spencer High School in 1955, after which he left Georgia to escape the systemic discrimination of the South to pursue a degree in optometry from Ohio State University. However, he was not gone for long. Upon his return to Columbus to practice as a medical professional, Dr. Wright became active in the Civil Rights Movement and participated in the 1965 Selma to Montgomery March. In 1968, he was elected to the Columbus City Council and served until he was appointed by President Ronald Reagan as Associate Administrator for Minority Small Business and Capital Ownership Development. In 1985, after his time in the Reagan Administration, Dr. Wright created Dimensions International, a successful defense contracting firm. In 2001, the NMAAHC Plan for Action Presidential Commission was established, and Dr. Wright was recommended by Congressman J.C. Watts of Oklahoma to serve on the commission and when the Commission was organized, the members elected him Chairman. As the Chairman, he was tasked by law to provide President George W. Bush and Congress with an implementation plan for the museum. Wasting no time in engaging this charge, Dr. Wright and his panel produced “The Time Has Come,” a 2003 report that expressed the vision and enumerated the administrative details for the $540 million dollar facility. This report led Congress to enact that same year the NMAAHC Act, which established the museum within the Smithsonian Institution. Even after this victory, the process often faltered as opposition to the museum forced several debates on funding, location, and even the need for such a museum. But through it all, Dr. Robert Wright and his team succeeded in bringing to life the Smithsonian’s 19th museum right where Dr. Wright and so many others feel it belongs—on the National Mall. The National Museum of African American History and Culture will candidly display the brutal horrors of the international slave trade and its unquantifiable and lingering effects. The museum will also celebrate the tenacity and advancement of African Americans as they remained steadfast in the belief of their worth as human beings. The museum’s juxtaposition of pain and tragedy with perseverance and triumph mirrors the “Horatio Alger” story of Dr. Robert L. Wright’s life in achieving success in the face of adversity. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me, my wife Vivian, and the millions of African Americans nationwide in recognizing Dr. Robert Lee Wright for his immeasurable contributions to the creation of the National Museum of African American History and Culture. We will soon celebrate the grand opening of this remarkable Museum, where people from all walks of life can gather to remember a dark period in our nation’s history, rejoice at how far we have come as a society, and reflect upon how far we have yet to go.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/bishop-congratulates-columbus-state-on-nasa-grant,BISHOP CONGRATULATES COLUMBUS STATE ON NASA GRANT,2016-09-23,2016,2016-09,Democrat,House,GA,Sanford Bishop,B000490,bishop.house.gov,,,legacy,"Columbus, GA – Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) congratulates Columbus State University on its $1.25 million Museum Alliance grant award from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). Columbus State University received the grant in partnership with the Georgia Institute of Technology, the Museum of Aviation Education Center in Warner Robins, and the South Florida Science Center and Aquarium. These organizations will work with NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, through the Innovation Mars Exploration Education and Technology program (IMEET), to educate high school students about the design and production of Mars exploration vehicles. The Kennedy Space Center will be in charge of the program, Georgia Tech will construct a curriculum, and Columbus State University will develop a two-week summer program that utilizes 3D printing technology to teach students about Mars helicopters and rovers. In addition, the funding will allow Columbus State University to hold workshops for local educators to hone their skills in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) instruction. “The possibility of a Mars landing by the year 2025 is an exhilarating notion,” said Congressman Bishop. “I thank Columbus State University and the Coca Cola Space Science Center for their innovative leadership in science and space education, and I am thrilled that students in southwest Georgia will be at the forefront of this movement.” The Coca Cola Space Science Center, owned and operated through Columbus State University, will host the summer programs established under this initiative. The University will be able to instruct 25 students and 15 teachers per year. For the first few years, the Science Center will work with the Muscogee County School District to recruit participants. As the program progresses, the participants will be selected by the Coca Cola Space Science Center from a larger base of students and teachers. The NASA Museum Alliance is a group of more than 700 U.S. and 90 international museums, science centers, planetariums, observatories, park visitor centers, nature centers, zoos, aquariums, libraries, camps, and youth organizations. The Alliance works to engage NASA‘s resources with community educators, staff, and leadership. The Museum Alliance Grant awarded to Columbus State University was one of nine proposals that was selected out of 73 total applications.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/civil-rights-environmental-report-confirms-need-rep-johnson-s-coal-ash,Civil Rights environmental report confirms need for Rep. Johnsons coal ash bill,2016-09-23,2016,2016-09,Democrat,House,GA,Hank Johnson,J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights today released its Environmental Justice: Examining the Environmental Protection Agency Compliance and Enforcement of Title VI and E.O. 12,898, which found that the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Final Coal Ash Rule disproportionately impacts low-income and communities of color and places the burden of enforcement on these communities. The Commission’s findings support Rep. Hank Johnson’s bill, the Coal Ash Landfill Safety Act of 2016 (CALSA), H.R. 4827. CALSA would protect citizens from dangerous coal ash being disposed in municipal landfills, which are not equipped to handle the toxic substance, and requires the EPA to re-examine its rules to determine if such criteria are as protective of health and the environment. The report found the “EPA did not fully consider the civil rights impacts in approving movement and storage of the coal ash” despite the agency finding “the percentage of minorities and low income individuals living within the … area of coal ash disposal facilities is disproportionately high.” Rep. Johnson (GA-04) released the following statement on the report: “The Commission’s findings once again bring attention to the critical environmental justice concerns that plague low-income, tribal, and minority communities,” said Johnson. “These communities are disproportionately affected by the location of waste disposal facilities that take in toxic materials, such as coal ash, and lack the resources to prevent dumping near their schools, homes, and neighborhoods. The burden of our environmental regulations should not fall on those who are at the greatest risk of exposure to dangerous chemicals.  As we have seen in Georgia, Flint, Michigan and in the Dakotas, we must act now to prevent corporate polluters from further poisoning our lands and water supply.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/speeches/rep-johnsons-statement-treating-opioid-epidemic-state-competition-markets,Rep. Johnson's statement on Treating the Opioid Epidemic: The State of Competition in the Markets for Addiction Medicine RRCAL,2016-09-23,2016,2016-09,Democrat,House,GA,Hank Johnson,J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Today’s hearing is an important and welcome opportunity to discuss drug price competition in the market for treating opioid addiction.  Opioid addiction is a devastating public-health emergency in many of our communities.  Strongly linked to the prescription of opioid painkillers, the Center for Disease Control (CDC) reports that opioids contributed to the deaths of 28,647 Americans in 2014. While there are many factors that have contributed to this crisis, concerns have been raised that common treatments for opioid addiction have become more costly.  In November 2014, the New York Times reported that naloxone, a common treatment for opioid addiction and overdoses, had experienced severe price spikes. Alarmingly, in my home state of Georgia, police departments report that the price of drug kits containing naloxone have increased from $22 to $40.  I am concerned that in addition to costing states millions of dollars, these spikes have decreased access and undermined the ability of law enforcement and local health responders to combat the opioid crisis. Unfortunately for many, these concerns extend to the markets for other life-saving treatments as well.  For example, I am personally concerned about the high costs of the new treatment for Hepatitis C, a virus that affects more than four million Americans, which costs nearly $75,000. While this form of treatment is a significant advancement, particularly for patients with a form of the disease that’s difficult to treat, there is little doubt that Americans should not have to choose between liver disease and extreme financial hardship when making healthcare choices. Life-saving treatments and drugs should not be out of reach for working people and everyday Americans. Healthcare should be available to everyone, not just the 1%. As millions of Americans struggle in the fight against this silent epidemic, treatments must be accessible and affordable. According to a study by Dr. Aaron Kesselmheim and others recently published in the Journal of American Medical Association, one of the driving forces in high drug prices is protection from competition through market exclusivity. Our patent system is designed to promote innovation by conferring a limited monopoly on inventions that are novel, useful, and non-obvious.  It is critical that our policies continue to place a high value on innovation. As the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) found in 2012, leading research indicates that the “economics literature generally indicates that innovation in medical products has produced tremendous benefits for U.S. consumer in longer and healthier lives.”  But it is equally important that patent-extension applications are carefully scrutinized to ensure competition in drug markets through generic drug availability. As Dr. Kesselmheim’s study noted, there is little evidence that pro-competitive policies will hamper innovation. In fact, they may even drive new therapies to market. While this hearing only concerns the market for addition medicine, I hope that it will also be instructive on drug price competition generally. I look forward to today’s hearing—we have a truly excellent panel of witnesses—and I yield back the balance of my time. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://johnlewis.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-john-lewis-introduces-resolution-national-museum-african-american,Rep. John Lewis Introduces Resolution on National Museum of African American History and Culture,2016-09-23,2016,2016-09,Democrat,House,GA,John Lewis,L000287,johnlewis.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today, Rep. John Lewis introduced this resolution honoring the dedication of the National Museum of African American History and Culture.  The text of the resolution is attached.  He made this statement upon introduction of the legislation: Mr. Speaker, I rise today to offer a bipartisan resolution which recognizes the opening of the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC) on Saturday, September 24, 2016.  I am so proud that over 110 of my colleagues from both sides of the aisle have joined me as original cosponsors.   This weekend will mark an historic moment in our Nation’s history.  Hundreds of thousands of people will convene in Washington, D.C. on the National Mall to celebrate and welcome this historic institution which is dedicated to documenting African American life, history, art, and culture.  Many people in this body, across the nation, and around the world shall celebrate this great day.   Tonight, I applaud Dr. Lonnie Bunch, III, the Founding Director, Kinshasha Holman Conwill, the Deputy Director, Cheryl Johnson, Chief of Staff, and the hundreds and thousands of people who worked so hard to make this dream a reality.  For over 10 years, they have toiled day in and day out to prepare for the opening and operation of the National Museum of African American History and Culture.   I know that the leadership and staff of the Museum have labored tirelessly for years and years – designing the building, raising funds, envisioning the exhibits, collecting artifacts, conducting research, and meeting with the many people across this country and around the world who are so excited about this historic moment.  Mr. Speaker, I thank each and every one of them for their hard work, determination, and dedication to the National Museum of African American History and Culture. Mr. Speaker, the National Museum of African American History and Culture took over 100 years to evolve from a dream to a reality in the Nation’s Capitol on the National Mall.  The most recent congressional effort began with the late former Congressman Thomas “Mickey” Leland from Texas who revitalized the legislation in 1985.  I was proud to continue his work and fought for 15 years for the bill to pass the House and Senate before finally being signed into law by President George W. Bush.   It was a long, hard, labor of love, and there were so many wonderful Members on both sides of the aisle and the dome, who helped accomplish this mission, which spanned generations, decades, and movements.  In 1993, the late Senator Paul Martin Simon from Illinois introduced a companion to the House legislation.  Beginning in 2001, former Senator Sam Brownback from Kansas, former Senator Max Cleland from Georgia, and former Senator Chris Dodd from Connecticut joined the House coalition which included Representatives William “Bill” Clay from Missouri, J.C. Watts, Jr. from Oklahoma, and Jack Kingston from Georgia who helped take this bipartisan, bicameral effort across the finish line.   Mr. Speaker, I would be remiss if I did not also thank some of the former congressional staff who worked for so many years to pass the legislation which authorized the Museum -- Tammy Boyd in my office; Kerri Watson with former Rep. J.C. Watts; LaRochelle Young with former Sen. Sam Brownback: and Donni Turner with former Sen. Max Cleland.  They refused to give up; they refused to give in, and we thank them for their hard work and service.  On the eve of this long-awaited day, I join with more than 110 of my colleagues in congratulating Smithsonian Institution’s family, the countless staff, and many volunteers of the National Museum of African American History and Culture on their persistence, their determination, and -- very, very soon -- on their success.   Tonight, we should all be proud, and each and every one of us must take the necessary hours, days, weeks, and months to visit, learn, explore, and reflect on the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture and all that it signifies and entails.  Mr. Speaker, this is a good day; it is a great day.  Thank you. Lewis Resolution on National Museum of African American History and Culture.pdf                                                       ####",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-celebrates-the-opening-of-the-national-museum-of,CONGRESSMAN BISHOP CELEBRATES THE OPENING OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF AFRICAN AMERICAN HISTORY AND CULTURE,2016-09-22,2016,2016-09,Democrat,House,GA,Sanford Bishop,B000490,bishop.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) released the following statement today in recognition of the opening of the National Museum of African American History and Culture this Saturday, September 24: “Today, I would like to take a moment to pay special recognition to an important, forthcoming moment in the American experience. On Saturday, September 24, the Smithsonian will be opening its 19th museum, the National Museum of African American History and Culture. This museum will illuminate the dark pain of the past and also celebrate the tremendous progress of a dynamic people with a complex history. “Built on the National Mall, upon what is colloquially referred to as America’s front yard, this museum has been a dream more than one-hundred years in the making. The initial discussions began in 1915 with the Grand Army of the Republic and the Committee of Colored Citizens – a civil war veterans group that called for a museum to honor Black veterans and the cultural contributions of the African American community. Over the following decades, the concept grew in fits and starts under the backdrop of the Great Depression, World War II, the Cold War and the conflicts in Korea and Vietnam, and the Civil Rights movement. It would not be until 2001 that legislation was finally signed into law that established a Presidential Commission tasked with putting together an implementation plan for the museum. “Robert Lee Wright, Chairman of the Presidential Commission, and his team wasted no time in undertaking their charge. In 2003, the museum commission published The Time Has Come – a report that propelled legislation formally establishing the museum and that itemized all the administrative details necessary to transition the project from a creative vision to a materialized reality. “This was no easy endeavor. Proponents of the museum fought through numerous congressional hearings. Consensus was often difficult to obtain. Debates were had over funding and location, and even over whether there was truly a need for this museum. “As we move closer to Saturday, let us commemorate this crucial patch finally and dutifully being sewn into the quilt of American history. Though the seams may be laden by a past of injustice, let us recall the focal point of this momentous occasion. This museum acknowledges the vital role African Americans played in the evolution of this great nation, extols their cultural contribution to the American experience, and looks forward to the United States fully embracing equality and justice for every citizen.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-johnson-s-bipartisan-mobile-workforce-tax-simplification-bill-passes,Rep. Johnsons bipartisan Mobile Workforce Tax Simplification bill passes House,2016-09-22,2016,2016-09,Democrat,House,GA,Hank Johnson,J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman reaches across the aisle with Rep. Bishop (MI-08) to help workers, businesses at tax time WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Hank Johnson’s (GA-04) bipartisan bill “The Mobile Workforce State Income Tax Simplification Act of 2015” H.R. 2315 passed the House of Representatives by voice vote Wednesday night. The bill – with 179 House colleagues in support on both sides of the aisle – streamlines the state income tax code across the country by setting a 30-day threshold before non-resident state income taxes take effect for employees who must travel for work. The bipartisan and bicameral legislation, introduced in the Senate by Sens. John Thune and Sherrod Brown, and sponsored by Republican Rep. Mike Bishop (MI-08) in the House, simplifies state income tax requirements for employees who work multiple days per year outside the state of their residence. “Under current law, some workers must file income tax forms for doing work in states other than where they reside or their employer is headquartered,” said Johnson. “This is too burdensome and hurts small businesses and individuals. The bipartisan Mobile Workforce legislation not only simplifies the system, but makes it uniform for people who work in multiple jurisdictions.” Like its Senate counterpart, H.R. 2315 provides that an employee’s earnings remain subject to full tax in the state of his or her residence. An employee would only be subject to another state’s taxes if he or she works there more than 30 days per calendar year. Currently, many employees are legally required to file an income tax return in every state they travel for work, even if just for a single day. Businesses must also comply with the states’ varying withholding requirements for their employees’ travel. “With so much red tape interwoven in today’s tax code, our Mobile Workforce bill is a commonsense way to cut through the clutter and simplify the filing process,” said Rep. Bishop. “By streamlining these requirements across states, we can reduce compliance costs and confusing paperwork for employees and employers alike. I urge the Senate to take up this bipartisan legislation to support our traveling workforce and help businesses grow and save.” Johnson added: “This is a pro-growth bill. If signed into law, it would not just simplify the tax burden, but protect workers and businesses – large and small – from the costs of compliance with the hodgepodge of 50 different tax systems, thus enhancing investment and productivity.” Original co-sponsors of the Mobile Workforce State Income Tax Simplification Act of 2015 include: Jason Chaffetz (UT-03), Lamar Smith (TX-21), Mark Walker (NC-06), Dennis Ross (FL-15), Patrick Murphy (FL-18), David Cicilline (RI-01) and Eric Swalwell (CA-15). ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://davidscott.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=397728,Congressman David Scott Announces Availability of 2016 Military Academy Congressional Nomination Applications,2016-09-21,2016,2016-09,Democrat,House,GA,David Scott,S001157,davidscott.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today Congressman David Scott (GA-13) announced the availability of applications for students interested in receiving a congressional nomination for admission to the U.S. Air Force, Merchant Marine, Military or Naval Academy. Having the privilege to nominate Thirteenth District students to attend the U.S. Military Academies is one of my most important and rewarding responsibilities, said Congressman Scott. Each year I am more and more inspired by the talent and high character of the students who have received nominations from my office. They truly represent the best and the brightest of our community. And I strongly encourage any young person who wants to become a leader and serve our country to consider attending one of the U.S. military academies. Each academy provides a top-tier education valued at more than $400,000, truly rare experiences, and rewarding careers in military service. Interested students should complete a Congressional Nomination Application available on Congressman Scotts website at www.house.gov/davidscott. All completed applications must be submitted by Friday, October 28, 2016 via mail or personal delivery to Congressman Scotts Jonesboro or Smyrna Office. To be considered for an appointment to a service academy, an applicant must be nominated from an authorized person, including a Member of the U.S. House of Representatives or Senate. Applicants must also meet the following requirements as of July 1 of the year of admission to a service academy: be at least 17 years old and not older than 23; a U.S. citizen; a legal resident of Georgias Thirteenth Congressional District; unmarried; not pregnant; and have no legal obligation to support children or other dependents. For more information, please contact Congressman Scotts Military Academy Coordinator Teresa Cooke at 770-210-5073.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-johnson-introduces-bills-protect-voting-systems-integrity-elections,"Rep. Johnson introduces bills to protect voting systems, integrity of elections",2016-09-21,2016,2016-09,Democrat,House,GA,Hank Johnson,J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman also pushes to protect voters’ access and provide paper ballots WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04), a member of the House Judiciary Committee, today introduced the “Election Infrastructure and Security Promotion Act of 2016” (H.R. 6073) that requires the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) designate our voting systems as critical infrastructure and the “Election Integrity Act of 2016” (H.R. 6072), which will limit the purchase of any new voting systems that do not provide durable voter-verified paper ballots. When DHS labels an asset as critical infrastructure, it heightens its security obligations and requires DHS to provide increased support – be it the power grid, water supply, or electoral infrastructure. “In the wake of the DNC server hack and well-documented efforts by states to suppress the vote, citizens are rightly concerned,” said Rep. Johnson. “We must work to reduce the vulnerability of our crucial voting systems, protect the security and integrity of our electoral process, and ensure all Americans have the opportunity to vote.” The “Election Infrastructure and Security Promotion Act of 2016” would: Designates voting systems as critical infrastructure under the Critical Infrastructure Protection Act; Requires DHS to submit to Congress a comprehensive plan on protecting critical electoral process from a variety of threats, including cyber terrorism; Calls on the Election Assistance Commission (EAC) and National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to develop operational security standards to be used in federal elections and transparency standards so that voters may verify their votes;  Authorizes the National Science Foundation (NSF) and the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) to establish an election technology innovation program to support and promote research into improving our voting process. The “Election Integrity Act” would: Limit the purchase of any new voting systems that do not provide durable voter-verified paper ballots; Establishes protocols when there is a voting system failure, prohibits voting systems responsible for tabulating votes from being insecurely connected to the internet, and calls for security standards for voting systems used in federal elections; Requires durable and readable paper ballots and the publication of poll tapes; Enables verifiable manual audits of federal elections and will allow for random hand counts of paper ballots. The results of these audits will be published; Establish guidelines for the publication of voter purge lists and a process by which individuals can challenge their placement on a purge list; Requires a mandatory response by the Attorney General for allegations of voter suppression and intimidation. “We have seen what is happening in places such as Hancock County, Georgia, where law enforcement and local election officials have engaged in Jim Crow-style voter intimidation in an effort to suppress minority voters; where purge lists have been found to target minorities; and where the Secretary of State’s office has compromised private voter information, it is time for Congress to step up and protect the right to vote in federal elections,” said Johnson. Congressman Mike Honda (CA-17) is an original cosponsor of both bills. “Our nation’s elections laws are decades old, leaving us unprepared to meet the threats of the 21st century,” said Rep. Honda. “We cannot afford to be reactive; we must invest now in clear, tough, and verifiable ways to protect everyone’s vote.” The Security Act is supported by Open Source Election Technology (OSET) Foundation, People Demanding Action and Progressive Democrats of America and Verified Voting. The Integrity Act is supported by: National Election Defense Coalition, Common Cause, Transformative Justice Coalition, Hip Hop Caucus, People Demanding Action, UHCAN, Progressive Democrats of America and Verified Voting. Judiciary Committee Ranking Member John Conyers (MI-13), Steve Cohen (TN-09), Mike Honda (CA-17), David Scott (GA-13) and Sanford Bishop (GA-02) are sponsors of the Security Act, and Reps. Conyers, David Cicilline (RI-01), Honda, David Scott, Sanford Bishop (GA-02) and Jose Serrano (NY-15) are sponsors of the Integrity Act. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-sanford-bishop-announces-community-development-block-grants,CONGRESSMAN SANFORD BISHOP ANNOUNCES COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANTS,2016-09-16,2016,2016-09,Democrat,House,GA,Sanford Bishop,B000490,bishop.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC – Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) is pleased to announce that 16 communities within the 2nd Congressional District of Georgia have been awarded a total of nearly $8,000,000 in Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG) grants. The CDBG grants were awarded by Georgia Governor Nathan Deal using funding provided by the U.S Department of Housing and Urban Development. The grants will be used to repair infrastructure and revitalize neighborhoods. “I am very excited for the funding granted to the 2nd Congressional District,” said Congressman Bishop. “It will be used for necessary infrastructure and revitalization projects that are vital to our economic development and growth.” The communities that received funding include:          City of Arlington: $500,000 for sewer improvements                                City of Blakely: $500,000 for sewer improvements                                                    City of Bronwood: $500,000 for street and drainage improvements                                                                  City of Cairo: $500,000 for street and drainage improvements          City of Camilla: $494,401 for water improvements          City of Donalsonville: $500,000 for water improvements          City of Geneva: $500,000 for neighborhood revitalization          City of Leesburg: $500,000 for sewer improvements                Macon County: $500,000 for neighborhood revitalization          City of Marshallville: $500,000 multi infrastructure improvements          City of Oglethorpe: $500,000 for neighborhood revitalization          City of Pelham: $500,000 for sewer improvements          City of Perry: $500,000 for neighborhood revitalization          City of Roberta: $500,000 for water improvements          City of Vienna: $500,000 for multi infrastructure improvements          Webster Unified County: $500,000 for street and drainage improvements The Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG) provides states with funding from the U.S Department of Housing and Development. The grants are administered through Georgia’s Department of Community Affairs (DCA), which works to support local government assistance, affordable housing, and economic development. Created in 1977, DCA works with local communities to foster success for Georgia families and businesses. An additional $29.7 million in CDBG grants was awarded by the DCA to other communities across the state of Georgia.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-celebrates-hispanic-heritage-month-1,CONGRESSMAN BISHOP CELEBRATES HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH,2016-09-15,2016,2016-09,Democrat,House,GA,Sanford Bishop,B000490,bishop.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) released the following statement today in recognition of Hispanic Heritage Month, which runs from September 15 to October 15: “Today begins a month-long celebration in recognition of the contributions of the 56.6 million Latinos that call this great nation home. “Latinos are undeniably part of the great melting pot of America, and their contributions are indisputable. Whether it is the day-to-day work they do for our communities as teachers, doctors, and small business owners, their distinguished service in the Armed Forces, or the clear cultural influences in music, art, and food, Latinos are an enduring part of the American tapestry. “Our nation was built on the foundation that every man and woman who calls this country home should have the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. To uplift those democratic and noble principles, we must embrace all who embody these American values. Not only is this the right thing to do, but it helps our nation bolster its economic strength and maintain its position as an example for the world. “As we continue celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month and recognizing all that the Latino community does for the 2nd Congressional District of Georgia and the state and nation as a whole, let us never forget the values and beliefs on which this country was founded and let us look forward to achieving equality and justice for all.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/bishop-applauds-nsf-award-for-fort-valley-state-university,BISHOP APPLAUDS NSF AWARD FOR FORT VALLEY STATE UNIVERSITY,2016-09-14,2016,2016-09,Democrat,House,GA,Sanford Bishop,B000490,bishop.house.gov,,,legacy,"FORT VALLEY, GA – Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02), is pleased to announce that Fort Valley State University in Fort Valley, GA has been awarded $30,590 from the National Science Foundation (NSF). The award will be used to broaden and support participation in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) graduate programs for underrepresented minority undergraduate students. Fort Valley State University will use the award for a project entitled “Collaborative Research: NSF INCLUDES: An Integrated Approach to Retain Underrepresented Minority Students in STEM Disciplines.” This project will be led by Dr. Sarwan Dhir from Fort Valley State University, and will be developed in coordination with the University of Georgia, Florida International University, Savannah State University, and Clark Atlanta University. Together, these universities will work to enhance recruitment, retention, productivity, and satisfaction of underrepresented minority students enrolled in STEM programs at research intensive universities. “The award will enable Fort Valley State University and its partner universities in the Southeast to affect lasting change in the success of underrepresented minorities enrolled in STEM undergraduate and graduate education,” said Congressman Bishop. “I am pleased that the NSF is making efforts to support diversity in STEM education, and I applaud their continued focus on the importance of STEM jobs to the American economy.” The project will leverage evidence-based approaches to examine cultural differences that may play a role in the educational outcomes of underrepresented minority STEM students. The project team will also seek to develop a number of scalable strategies and interventions to improve outcomes in STEM. This research project is set to begin October 1, 2016 and is estimated to conclude on September 30, 2018. Originally chartered in 1895, Fort Valley State University is located in Peach County, GA. As a Historically Black College or University (HBCU), Fort Valley State University has a highly commended biology and chemistry department which sends more students of African descent to medical and dental schools than any other state school in Georgia.  Established by Congress in 1950, NSF provides grants, contracts and cooperative agreements to fund research and education in the science and engineering fields. NSF funding accounts for around 20% of federal funding to academic institutions. More information on this NSF award can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://johnlewis.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-john-lewis-renews-call-action-gun-violence,Rep. John Lewis Renews Call to Action on Gun Violence,2016-09-14,2016,2016-09,Democrat,House,GA,John Lewis,L000287,johnlewis.house.gov,,,legacy,"Rep. Lewis made the following speech on the House floor today after previous remarks made by Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) and other colleagues to encourage the Speaker of the House to bring gun control legislation to the floor.  After Lewis’s speech, he asked his colleagues to join him in the well of the House.  Ten members and Lewis stood quietly in the well.  He was joined by Reps. Robin Kelly (D-IL), Rosa DeLauro (D-CT), Anna Eshoo (D-CA), Joseph Kennedy III (D-MA),  John Larson (D-CT), Mike Thompson (D-CA), Elizabeth Etsy (D-CT), Jackie Speier (D-CA), Lois Capps (D-CA), and Katherine Clark (D-MA).  The House was immediately gaveled into recess.   Rep. Lewis’s statement follows: ""Mr. Speaker, I rise yet again to speak out about mass shootings and gun violence in our nation.  When I think of Newtown, of Charleston, of Orlando, my heart just breaks.  Mr. Speaker, what will it take for Congress to act?  How many more must suffer? How many more must die? ""Today, I ask you to think of Taylor Hayden, the beautiful young woman celebrating a girls weekend in Atlanta, who was killed by gang crossfire.  Please think of the young woman killed while driving home from work in Southwest Atlanta. Think of the woman fighting for her life at this very moment in Grady hospital.  Just last week, she was injured in a shooting that brought I-85 to a stop. ""Mr. Speaker, time and time again, we asked for compassion.  Time and time again, we asked for action.  Time and time again, we asked for leadership.  Our constituents are sick and tired of a do nothing Congress.  They elected us to do our jobs.  Instead, Congress took a break. Mr. Speaker, Republicans must join Democrats, and do what is right, what is just, and what is long overdue.  There are good, common-sense proposals that not only protect rights, but also will save lives.  These bills should be passed immediately. ""Time is of the essence.  We cannot be silent.  We cannot be compliant.  We cannot wait for another time, another place, or another person. Mr. Speaker, the time to act is now. Today, I urge all of my colleagues to join us.  Be brave and take a stand.  Or if you prefer, please take a seat, roll up your sleeves, and let us get to work.    ""We have mission, an obligation, and a mandate.  History will not be kind if Congress continues to turn a blind eye and a cold shoulder to those crying, begging, and pleading for action.  We must pass common-sense legislation to prevent gun violence and mass shootings in our country, and we must act now.  Not next week, next week, or next year, but now.""   WATCH THE VIDEO:  http://youtu.be/W4w0oAiQm2w                                                                                      ####",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-sanford-bishop-announces-rural-development-grants,CONGRESSMAN SANFORD BISHOP ANNOUNCES RURAL DEVELOPMENT GRANTS,2016-09-13,2016,2016-09,Democrat,House,GA,Sanford Bishop,B000490,bishop.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC- Congressman Sanford D. Bishop Jr. (GA-02), is pleased to announce that the Rural Development agency of the U.S. Department of Agriculture has approved $14.3 million in project development grants and loans to five recipients in the 2nd Congressional District of Georgia. These recipients include the Fort Gaines Police Department, the Ellaville Police Department, Pataula Charter Academy, the Development Authority of Macon County, and South Georgia Technical College. “The grants and loans awarded by the Rural Development agency will be extremely beneficial for the 2nd Congressional District of Georgia.” said Congressman Bishop. “These resources will be used to improve educational training, increase the use of green technology, and replace outdated equipment.” Pataula Charter Academy in Edison, GA, will receive a $14 million Community Facility Direct Loan in order to build a new educational facility and multi-purpose building. The state commissioned charter school serves Baker, Calhoun, Clay, Early, and Randolph counties, and includes grades K through 12. The Development Authority of Macon County will receive a $99,000 Rural Business Development Grant to purchase a flying saw that will be leased to Enviro Builders, a local company focused on constructing green insulated panels for net zero energy housing. The City of Fort Gaines will receive an Economic Impact Initiative Grant of $50,000 and a Community Facility Loan of $26,800 in order to purchase two new police vehicles for use by the Fort Gaines Police Department. Similarly, the City of Ellaville was awarded a grant of $29,500 and a loan totaling $9,900 under the Community Facility Loan and Grant Program to purchase a new fully equipped patrol vehicle.  South Georgia Technical College in Sumter County, GA will receive a Rural Business Development Grant totaling $99,000 to upgrade the college’s truck driving simulator. Students enrolled in the Commercial Truck Driving Program will benefit from the updated tractor trailers and cabs. All five recipients received these grants from the U.S Department of Agriculture’s Rural Development agency, which provides both technical assistance and loans, grants, and loan guarantees to support essential services in rural America. This support is used to help communities with housing, economic development, health care, first responder services and equipment, as well as water, electric, and communications infrastructure.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-selected-as-a-friend-of-farm-bureau-0,CONGRESSMAN BISHOP SELECTED AS A FRIEND OF FARM BUREAU,2016-09-12,2016,2016-09,Democrat,House,GA,Sanford Bishop,B000490,bishop.house.gov,,,legacy,"COLUMBUS, GA – Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) will hold a Town Hall Meeting in Columbus, GA on Tuesday, May 9, 2017 from 5:30pm to 7:30pm. The Town Hall will provide a forum for the discussion of current policy issues being debated in Congress.   The event will take place in the auditorium of the Columbus Public Library.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-statement-on-911-anniversary-1,CONGRESSMAN BISHOP STATEMENT ON 9/11 ANNIVERSARY,2016-09-12,2016,2016-09,Democrat,House,GA,Sanford Bishop,B000490,bishop.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) released the following statement today to commemorate the 15th Anniversary of the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001: “It has been fifteen years since the attacks on 9/11. It was truly a day that changed everything. As a country, we came to the realization that we are not insulated from the troubles that occur overseas, in regions geographically remote from our own. “We also came to the realization that we can stand united when our fellow countrymen are in need. On that day, we came together to support our fellow Americans, our brothers and sisters. This is a fact all too often forgotten, and one that I think is important to remember on this anniversary. “We persevered through that day as a united America, and despite our differences and our family squabbles, I know we will continue to persevere in future times of need.    “I will continue to reflect on that dark day, to reflect on the lives that were lost and the way of life that has been changed forever. However, these lives were not lost in vain. On this day of remembrance, we must remember the strength we showed when we came together as a nation, and on the sacrifices that were made, and that continue to be made, to preserve our freedoms. We must continue to protect those that protect us, our service members, our first responders, our veterans, the families of those that were lost, and our citizenry as a whole.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/e-newsletters/congressman-johnsons-e-newsletter-sept-8-2016,"Congressman Johnson's E-Newsletter for Sept. 8, 2016",2016-09-09,2016,2016-09,Democrat,House,GA,Hank Johnson,J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Dear Friends, After a seven-week district work period, the House is back in session and it’s time for us to get to work and address a number of public health emergencies. I will be joining my House Democratic colleagues to continue to urge our Republican colleagues to fund a response to the Zika virus, the Flint water crisis, and opioid addiction, as well as allow a vote on common-sense measures to prevent gun violence. We will also be voting on funding the government this month and hopefully breaking a deadlock over the defense budget. For more, click HERE.  AFRICAN-AMERICAN HISTORY MUSEUM: The National Museum of African American History & Culture is opening on the Mall in Washington on Sept. 24. In response to the overwhelming demand for timed-entry passes to the National Museum of African American History & Culture, the museum will expand its hours and make additional passes available. The Museum will also offer Timed Passes for extended hours Monday, September 26th through Sunday, October 2nd. Timed Passes for the months of November and December will also be released Tuesday. For more information, click HERE.   CLARKSTON COMMUNITY CENTER: The Clarkston Community Center is holding their International Food and Wine Party on Saturday, September 10 from 7 to 10 p.m. For more, click HERE.   SRWA 4TH ANNUAL JAMBOREE: The South River Watershed Alliance (SRWA) is holding its 4th Annual South River Jamboree “Rendezvous at the River” on Saturday, Oct. 1 at the Eifrid’s 25-acre farm. The South River traverses six counties - DeKalb, Rockdale, Henry, Newton, Butts, and Jasper – along its route. SRWA works to restore and protect the South River wildlife, raise awareness, educate, and connect people to the river. For more, click HERE. DEFEATING VETERAN HOMELESSNESS: Four venerable local organizations -- Action Ministries, Inc., Decatur Cooperative Ministry, Inc., United Way of Metropolitan Atlanta and Travelers Aid of Metropolitan Atlanta, Inc. -- are part of a $300 million nationwide grant from the Veterans Administration to help very low-income veteran families prevent homelessness on the Fourth District. For more, click HERE. COVINGTON PD FUZZ RUN: The Covington Police Department’s 33rd annual Fuzz Run is Saturday, September 10. The Fuzz Run is the largest participatory event in Covington each year, drawing about 3,000 runners, walkers and spectators. The race has won the “Best Race in Georgia” award four years, which was voted on by runners participating in the “Run and See Georgia Grand Prix Series.” For more, click HERE.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/honor-berta-c-ceres-rep-hank-johnson-introduces-historic-bill-stop-us-aid,"In Honor of Berta Cceres, Rep. Hank Johnson Introduces Historic Bill to Stop U.S. Aid to Honduras",2016-09-09,2016,2016-09,Democrat,House,GA,Hank Johnson,J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,,,legacy,"In an unprecedented move, a group of congressmembers are calling on the United States to suspend all military aid to Honduras until the country addresses its gross human rights violations. On Tuesday afternoon, Democratic Congressmember Hank Johnson of Georgia introduced the bill in Congress demanding the U.S. halt all funds to Honduras for their police and military operations, including funds for equipment and training. The United States currently provides hundreds of millions of dollars in aid to Honduras through the Northern Triangle’s Alliance for Prosperity Plan. The legislation is named after indigenous and environmental leader Berta Cáceres, who was murdered in Honduras in March. We speak with Georgia Representative Hank Johnson about his landmark bill.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-selected-as-a-friend-of-farm-bureau,CONGRESSMAN BISHOP SELECTED AS A FRIEND OF FARM BUREAU,2016-09-08,2016,2016-09,Democrat,House,GA,Sanford Bishop,B000490,bishop.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Sanford D. Bishop Jr. (GA-02), Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, has been selected to receive the Friend of Farm Bureau Award for his dedication to serving America’s farmers and ranchers. Congressman Bishop was nominated by the Georgia State Farm Bureau and approved by the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) Board of Directors. “Agriculture is one of the pillars of Georgia’s economy,” said Congressman Bishop. “I am proud to receive this award and I promise to continue my work on behalf of Georgia farmers, ranchers, and agribusinesses.”  The AFBF selects candidates for the Friend of Farm Bureau Award based on their voting records and how well they have supported AFBF priority issue areas. For the 114th Congress, the priority issues are food security and safety, regulatory reform, and access to trade and technology. Congressman Bishop has long been an advocate for the agriculture industry, both in Georgia and nationwide. Through his perch on the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, the Congressman has served as a champion for Georgia’s peanut, cotton, poultry, pecan, blueberry, vegetable, and forestry industries, among others. The State of Georgia has 9.6 million acres of land devoted to farms, including nearly 2.5 million acres in the 2nd Congressional District of Georgia. Agriculture contributes an estimated $74.35 billion annually to Georgia’s economy. The role of agriculture is of paramount importance to the 2nd Congressional District of Georgia. There are an estimated 8,000 farm operators and 5,600 farms in the District. The Farm Bureau is an independent, non-governmental, non-partisan, non-sectarian voluntary organization governed by and representing farm and ranch families united for the purpose of analyzing their problems and formulating action to achieve educational improvement, economic opportunity and social advancement and, thereby, to promote the national well-being. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/conyers-johnson-hr-5063-will-undermine-agency-ability-hold-wrong-doers,Conyers & Johnson: H.R. 5063 will undermine agency ability to hold wrong doers accountable,2016-09-08,2016,2016-09,Democrat,House,GA,Hank Johnson,J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC – House Judiciary Committee Ranking Member John Conyers, Jr. (D-MI) and Subcommittee on Regulatory Reform, Commercial and Antitrust Law Ranking Member Henry C. “Hank” Johnson, Jr. (D-GA) today released the following statements after H.R. 5063, the Stop Settlement Slush Funds Act of 2016 passed the U.S. House of Representatives. Video: Rep. Johnson on the House floor: ""We're too busy passing bills that help Wall Street -- that's not what the American people want.""  “H.R. 5063 is a deeply flawed bill that imposes an abysmal solution to a non-existent problem,” said Congressman Conyers. “Many settlement agreements like those under attack by this legislation have facilitated effective responses to harms caused by reckless corporate actors. The majority’s accusations against the Justice Department’s use of settlement funds have been proven to be completely false. It is my hope that my colleagues in the Senate reject this legislation, should it come to the floor for a vote.” “This so-called “Stop Settlement Slush Funds Act of 2016” is a deeply flawed proposal that would establish sweeping changes to the enforcement of the law by civil enforcement agencies,” said Congressman Johnson. “This misguided bill lets Wall Street off the hook at the expense of homeowners who were misled and severely harmed by the depraved misconduct that gave rise to the mortgage crisis.” H.R. 5063, the Stop Settlement Slush Funds Act of 2016, would prohibit settlement agreements that authorize payments to parties not “directly and proximately” harmed by the unlawful conduct of the settling defendant. This undermines the ability of agencies to adequately address unlawful conduct, provide complete restitution for violations of the law, and tailor remedies to address systemic or diffuse harms to unidentifiable victims, the public health, or the environment. By forcing agencies into needless litigation, the bill would waste agency time and resources as well as taxpayer dollars and delay the timely enforcement of the law and the provision of full relief for victims. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://johnlewis.house.gov/media-center/federal-grant-announcements/federal-grants-announcement-52-million-grants,Federal Grants Announcement - $52 Million in Grants,2016-09-08,2016,2016-09,Democrat,House,GA,John Lewis,L000287,johnlewis.house.gov,,,legacy,"Periodically, Rep. John Lewis is notified that organizations within the 5th Congressional District have been selected to receive a variety of federal grants.  This federal grants announcement will advise press and constituents of these notifications.  This announcement details about $52,375,818 in federal grants coming to the 5th Congressional District. What is the funding process for federal grants? There are two basic ways the federal government awards funds, through mandatory funding or discretionary funding.  Members of Congress vote on “authorizing” legislation that funds the mandatory commitments of the federal government for programs like Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, unemployment insurance and SNAP.  Also every year, levels of discretionary funding are determined during the Congressional appropriations process.  Rep. Lewis and all other members of Congress work to ensure that federal programs which provide key services within their districts are funded at levels requested by local government authorities and constituents they represent.    The federal grants announced by this release fall mainly in the discretionary category.  The money appropriated by Congress is sent to the federal agencies, such as the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) or of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), which then disburse it directly to the states and local governments.  Sometimes federal agencies issue requests for proposals which place states, cities, and local organizations in competition with others around the country for the opportunity to gain federal support for a local project.  This is where the efficacy of city and state organizations are tested to determine whether they can compete effectively to receive those funds. Rep. Lewis often meets with and advises city, state or local agencies to help them strategize effective methods of engaging the federal agencies throughout the grant process. Pell Grants, Byrne Justice Assistance, veterans’ services, LIHEAP home heating support, early education, COPS, YouthBuild, Jobs Corps, the CDC, minority health programs, TIGER, critical disease research initiatives, tenant and fair housing assistance all stem from Congressional discretionary funding.  Recent successful discretionary grant efforts from the 5th Congressional District of Georgia include the Atlanta Streetcar, the Multimodal Passenger Terminal, the Atlanta BeltLine, and the UTC.  Through his District Office, Rep. Lewis offers grants assistance and workshops to explain the federal grants process.  Please call 404-659-0116 if you are interested in participating in one of these workshops.  Following is the list of the most recently granted federal funds to the 5th Congressional District. If you are seeking more information about any one of these federal grants, please consult the granting information for more details on their selection process. Grants over $500,000 are highlighted. This is to inform you that the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, the National Science Foundation, National Institute of Standards and Technology, U.S. Department of Transportation, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and the Department of Energy will be announcing the following grant award(s) to recipient(s) within your Congressional district and state.    Grant Notifications   U.S. Department of Health & Human Services  Grant Recipient: Georgia Department of Public Health Grant Project Title: Georgia Occupational Health Surveillance System Amount: $145,000 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:165971             Recipient: American Cancer Society, Inc. Grant Project Title: HPV Roundtable: Creating a National Network of Partners to Promote Cancer Prevention through Human Papillomavirus Vaccination- Financed in Part by 2016 Prevention and Public Health Funds - 2016 Amount: $500,000 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:166540   Recipient: Georgia Institute of Technology Grant Project Title: eQTL mega-analysis for functional assessment of multi-enhancer gene regulation Amount: $796,375 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:166577   Recipient: Georgia Department of Public Health Grant Project Title: PPHF 2016: Preventive Health and Health Services Block Grant a financed solely by 2016 Prevention a Amount: $4,795,453 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:166733   Recipient: Arthritis Foundation Grant Project Title: DP16-1606 Advancing Arthritis Public Health Approaches through National Organization Amount: $150,000 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:166765   Recipient: Emory University Grant Project Title: Pharmacology, Physiology, and Biological Chemistry Research Amount: $357,190 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:166802   Recipient: Emory University Grant Project Title: The impact of traumatic stress on the methylome: implications for PTSD Amount: $687,095 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:167183   Recipient: Emory University Grant Project Title: National Ebola Training and Education Center Amount: $2,271,301 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:167125 Recipient: Fulton County Govt, Board of Commissioners Grant Project Title: Fulton County: Growing Healthy In Fulton Amount: $1,604,538 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:167121   Recipient: Georgia Department of Public Health Grant Project Title: Ryan White Part B Supplemental Amount: $2,000,000 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:167143   Recipient: Emory University Grant Project Title: Emory Alzheimer's Disease Research Center Amount: $268,365 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:167527   Recipient: Emery University   Grant Project Title: Biochemical & Genetic Analysis of Low Complexity Domains in RNA-binding protein biology Amount: $325,288 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:167438   Recipient: Emory University Grant Project Title: P30- Core Grant for Vision Research Amount: $624,000 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:167858   Recipient: Emory University Grant Project Title: Next generation glycan microarray (NGGM) enabled by next generation sequencing (NGS) and DNA-coded glycan library Amount: $302,640 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:167793 Recipient: Emory University Grant Project Title: A widespread self-management education program to reduce health disparities in African American women with systemic lupus erythematosus Amount: $390,000 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:167751   Recipient: Emory University Grant Project Title: Impaired Collateral Vessel Formation in Sickle Cell Disease Amount: $605,307 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:167744   Recipient: Emory University Grant Project Title: CSF, MRI, and PET biomarkers of neuroinflammation in Alzheimer's disease Amount: $770,283 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:165572                                              Recipient: Emory University Grant Project Title: ENHANCING MODELS OF HIV, VIRAL HEPATITIS, STIs, AND TUBERCULOSIS TO INFORM AND IMPROVE PUBLIC HEALTH IMPACT Amount: $1,199,515 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:165469   Recipient: Emory University Grant Project Title: The Production of Microparticles During RBC Storage and Their Impact on Endothelial Phenotype In-vitro and In-vivo Amount: $192,300 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:165534                                       Recipient: Emory University Grant Project Title: Impact of selective genome packaging on influenza A virus reassortment Amount: $387,459 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:165706   Recipient: Georgia Department of Public Health Grant Project Title: PPHF 2014 EPIDEMIOLOGY AND LABORATORY CAPACITY FOR INFECTIOUS DISEASES (ELC) Amount: $4,132,188 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:165694   Recipient: Georgia Department of Public Health Grant Project Title: Georgia Zika Infant Surveillance Amount: $560,000 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:165780   Recipient: Emory University Grant Project Title: Definition of an Ancient T cell-like System in Lampreys Amount: $305,292 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:166854 Any questions regarding this notification should be addressed to the HHS Press office at (202) 690-6343.   National Science Foundation (NSF) Grant Recipient: Emory University Grant Project Title: NSF/DMR-BSF: Supramolecular mutualism in Functional Nucleic acid and Peptide Co-assemblies Amount: $450,000 Additional Details: http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1610377                                               Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: Reducing Achievement Gaps in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM): Promising International Research, Policies and Practices Amount: $99,999 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1643308   Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: AitF: Collaborative Research: High Performance Linear System Solvers with Focus on Graph Laplacians Amount: $266,666 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1637566     Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: BD Spokes: SPOKE: SOUTH: Collaborative: Using Big Data for Environmental Sustainability: Big Data + AI Technology = Accessible, Usable, Useful Knowledge! Amount: $754,600 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1636848     Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: Scaling Summaries in Multiscale Domains with Applications Amount: $150,034 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1613258        Grant Recipient: Georgia State University Research Foundation, Inc. Grant Project Title: Individual variation, plasticity, and learning in human brain evolution Amount: $970,704 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1631563        Grant Recipient: Emory University Grant Project Title: TWC: Small: Rigorous and Customizable Spatiotemporal Privacy for Location Based Applications Amount: $456,399 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1618932     Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: Crystallization and glass formation in colloidal-hydrogel suspensions Amount: $300,000 Additional Details: http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1609841   Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: EAGER: Collaborative Research: Refining survey-based measures of innovation Amount: $64,723 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1646689        Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: AitF: Collaborative Research: A Distributed and Stochastic Algorithmic Framework for Active Matter Amount: $200,000 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1637031       Grant Recipient: Spelman College Grant Project Title: Targeted Infusion Project: Data Science eXtension (DSX): Incorporating data science fundamentals in computing curriculum at Spelman and Morehouse Colleges Amount: $399,903 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1623362       Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: MRI: Acquisition of 3D Lithography System with Sub-Micrometer Resolution Amount: $384,800 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1626078       Grant Recipient: Emory University Grant Project Title: EAGER: Functional Study of the Lamprey AID/APOBEC Family of Cytidine Deaminase Amount: $142,587 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1655163     Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: Collaborative Research: Identifying and Controlling Conductivity Variations in Semiconductor Nanowires Amount: $175,000 Additional Details: http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1603904   Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: Graduate Teaching Assistant Professional Development (GTA-PD) Workshop Amount: $33,964 Additional Details: http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1647516   Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: CPS: Synergy: CNC Process Plan Simulation, Automation and Optimization Amount: $701,336 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1646013         Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: CI-P: Collaborative: Planning for a Community-Driven Open Research Infrastructure to Support Secure Computing Research involving Intel SGX Amount: $50,000 Additional Details: http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1629851   Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: I-Corps: Method for Forming Interlaced Composites During Automated Fiber Placement Amount: $50,000 Additional Details: http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1643507   Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: I-Corps: Techniques for Securing and Managing Industrial Control Systems Amount: $50,000 Additional Details:   http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1645441         Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: Science of Pattern Coating onto Heterogeneous Surfaces Using a Hybrid Manufacturing Process Amount: $278,475 Additional Details: http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1562255   Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: Electronic Microflow Cytometry for Surface Expression Analysis of Tumor Cells Amount: $400,000 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1610995        Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: NRI: US National Robotics Roadmap Update Amount: $35,000 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1652006        Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: Identifying and Utilizing Upper Bounds for Diffusion-based Separations using Metal Organic Frameworks Amount: $306,042 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1604375        Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: Experimental and Computational Statistical Investigation of Microstructurally Small Fatigue Crack Growth in Nickel Microbeams Amount: $480,001 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1562499        Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: A New Interval Finite Element Approach for Structural System Identification and Damage Detection under Uncertainty Amount: $455,747 Additional Details:   http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1634483         Grant Recipient: Georgia State University Research Foundation, Inc. Grant Project Title: CDS&E/Collaborative Research: DataStorm: A Data Enabled System for End-to-End Disaster Planning and Response Amount: $132,027 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1610429        Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: SCH: EXP: Smart Adaptive Adherence-Enhancing Intervention Strategies for Breast Cancer Prevention Amount: $289,569 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1601084     Grant Recipient: Georgia State University Research Foundation, Inc. Grant Project Title: Characterizing School Recovery After Disasters: Can We Optimize Academic Recovery? Amount: $293,177 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1634234       Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: EAGER: Theoretical Foundation for the Use of Approximations and Heuristics in Systems Engineering and Design Amount: $299,520 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1645316     Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: NRI: Collaborative Research: Accelerating Robotic Manipulation with Data-Enhanced Contact Mechanics Amount: $452,219 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1637758        Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: NRI: Collaborative Research: Scalable Robot Autonomy through Remote Operator Assistance and Lifelong Learning Amount: $266,167 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1637562        Grant Recipient: Emory University Grant Project Title: Function and Evolution of Cognitive Monitoring and Cognitive Control Amount: $646,482 Additional Details:   http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1632477         Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: Planar Wurtzite III-N Gunn Diodes for High Power Millimeter Wave and THz Electronics Amount: $420,000 Additional Details: http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1610073   Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: Probing Lymphatic Valve Biomechanics with Computational and Experimental Approaches Amount: $449,999 Additional Details: http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1635133   Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: Continuous and Scalable Manufacturing of Platinum-Nickel Nanocatalysts for Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cells Amount: $250,002 Additional Details: http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1634687   Grant Recipient: Clark Atlanta University Grant Project Title: Targeted Infusion Project: Development and Implementation of Computational Chemistry and Biology Courses with Research Integration Amount: $399,698 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1634996     Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: Origins of prolonged ocean temperature extremes in the North Pacific Amount: $386,879 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1634996     Any questions regarding this notification should be addressed to NSF’s Office of Legislative and Public Affairs at (703) 292-8070.   National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Grant Recipient: InterCAX LLC Grant Project Title: STEP Services for Integrated System Lifecycle Management Amount: $30,000 Additional Details:  STEP Services for Integrated System Lifecycle Management - Through its project, the recipient aims to improve engineering software integration that uses web-based interfaces rather than a file-based exchange within agile manufacturing systems, ultimately benefiting assembly type operations, such as automotive assembly, battery assembly, computer assembly, and household appliance manufacture. Costs associated with concept development, software architecture, and applications development and demonstration will be supported.   Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Applied Research Corporation Grant Project Title: Knowledge Driven Robotics for Agile Assembly Amount: $97,605 Additional Details:  Knowledge Driven Robotics for Agile Assembly - The research conducted under this proposal will help to develop metrics, methodologies, and standards that can be adopted by industry, with the potential to advance manufacturing and assembly processes. The research will be of significant value to the General Public as the results will support the use of robotic systems for advanced manufacturing assembly processes enabling the cost-effective production of complex products. This research will advance current efforts in developing robot performance evaluation standards, enabling rapid re-tasking, and realizing the vision of agile robot assembly which support the Engineering Laboratory efforts related to Robotic Systems for Smart Manufacturing.   Any questions regarding this notification should be addressed to NIST’s General Grants Information line at (301) 975-4714. Department of Transportation (DOT) Grant Recipient: State of Georgia Grant Project Title: Georgia State Block Grant Program: Non primary development projects in state block grant program Amount: $3,816,784 Additional Details: This grant will provide federal funding for airports in the Georgia State Block Grant Program. This grant is being increased from $14,504,322 to $18,321,106. The increase is based on the availability of additional federal funding. Under the Airport Improvement Program's Block Grant, the State of Georgia administers grants and several associated processes for non-primary airports within the state. This grant will provide funding for various projects that will preserve the physical integrity of airport property, improve operational efficiency and enhance safety. The Georgia State Block Grant Program supports projects at non-primary airports within the state. Grant Recipient: City of Atlanta Project Location: Atlanta, GA Grant Project Title: US DOT’s FY 2016 National Infrastructure Investments or TIGER VIII Discretionary Grant Program Disc. Amount: $10,000,000 Additional Details:  The Martin Luther King Jr Drive Corridor Improvement Initiative will construct mobility improvements along approximately seven miles of Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive. Any questions regarding this notification should be addressed to DOT’s Office of Governmental Affairs at (202)366-4573.   The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Grant Recipient: Ms. Serelia D. Woods, Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: Understanding drivers and impacts of CGCM biases in representing the decadal variability of Labrador Sea convection Amount: $232,012 Additional Details: The overarching objectives of this project are to diagnose the sources of CGCMs biases in the LS focusing on a subset of CMIP5 runs and to quantify the impacts of those biases on the representation of carbon uptake and inventories in the basin. They will be achieved through a sensitivity study to be performed using regional ocean-only ROMS simulations covering most of the North Atlantic forced by momentum, heat and freshwater fluxes, and/or boundary conditions from the CMIP5 runs.This project will establish cause-effect linkages between the representation of mesoscale processes, of the atmospheric forcing fields, and of the gyre circulation, and the (modeled) Labrador Sea circulation, its variability and carbon uptake characteristics. The regional simulations will include an ocean biogeochemical and carbon cycling module. The interpretation of all model analysis will be aided by careful comparisons with shipboard and Argo measurements in the Labrador Sea, and along 53N. In this regard we will build upon our ongoing collaboration with Dr I. Yashayeav at the Bedford Institute of Oceanography. This project will contribute a better understanding of the potential predictability of Labrador Sea convection and of the natural and anthropogenically forced variability of the AMOC.This proposal addresses the objective of the NOAA funding opportunity, CVP AMOC-Climate Linkages in the North and/or South Atlantic (NOAA-OAR-CPO-2016-2004413) to refine the current scientific understanding of the AMOC state, variability and change by focusing on the interannual and decadal variability for the LS branch. The proposed work contributes to three priorities identified in the US AMOC 2014 report and advances the NOAAs Next-Generation Strategic Plan to improve scientific understanding of the changing climate system by diagnosing the physical and biogeochemical biases in the CGCMs that are used in the future prediction and projections by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. Grant Recipient: Ms. Stefanie Nagid, Georgia Department of Natural Resources Grant Project Title: Georgia Coastal Management Program Cycle 19 Amount: $2,385,000 Additional Details: Georgia Coastal Management Program Cycle 19 The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is providing ongoing funding through the National Coastal Zone Management Program to the State of Georgia to help administer the states federally approved coastal management program. The National Coastal Zone Management Program, under the Coastal Zone Management Act, is an important voluntary federal-state partnership that protects, restores, and responsibly develops our nations coastal communities and resources by balancing economic development, coastal uses, and natural resource protection. NOAAs investment of $2,385,000 is leveraging $2,125,000 in state, local, and private funds. These funds will support jobs and provide continued assistance to the Georgia coastal management program to address many important coastal issues in the state including coastal hazards, public access, land conservation, water quality, and coastal community development. For example, one project will improve disaster resiliency in the eleven-county coastal region of Georgia by helping local governments take advantage of existing tools and implement activities that improve resilience while reducing their flood insurance premiums. The funding supports two of the most at-risk communities for flooding, where property owners are among the most economically disadvantaged in the region, allowing the county and city to complete all the necessary steps to become a full participant in the Community Rating System (CRS) program. The funding also supports ongoing coastal policy, planning, permitting, enforcement, water quality monitoring, technical assistance, and communication and outreach programs/activities. The award is also supporting new initiatives such as a multi-year effort to assist coastal communities by fostering awareness and understanding of the role of natural resources in protecting citizens from the effects of natural disasters. In particular, the benefits of utilizing green (natural) infrastructure to reduce flood risk. Grant Recipient: Ms. Shirley Hall, Georgia Department of Natural Resources Grant Project Title: Assessment of the demographic recovery criteria for the Norther Recovery Unit of loggerhead turtles using genetic mark-recapture including implementation of high priority recovery actions. Amount: $503,109 Additional Details: Assessment of the demographic recovery criteria for the Norther Recovery Unit of loggerhead turtles using genetic mark-recapture including implementation of high priority recovery actions. The Northwest Atlantic Ocean Distinct Population Segment of loggerhead turtle (Caretta caretta), listed as threatened under the U.S. Endangered Species Act, is one of the two largest nesting aggregations globally. It is therefore critical to species conservation at regional and global scales. The Northern Recovery Unit (NRU) represents a geographically and genetically distinct subpopulation and encompasses the northernmost range of nesting in the U.S. The proposed research will address critical recovery actions necessary to assess the status of NRU loggerhead turtles and will estimate important demographic variables required for population modeling and prioritization of recovery actions. Recovery action objectives include: 1) Estimate nesting female population size, clutch frequency and remigration intervals, 2) Estimate adult female recruitment and survival and compare among females using three major foraging areas, 3) Develop demographic and scenario planning models to forecast population-level responses to conservation and management scenarios, 4) Compare phenology, nest site fidelity, clutch size, and clutch frequency of neophyte and remigrant females, 5) Evaluate the effects of foraging area choice on nesting phenology, clutch size, clutch frequency, and remigration interval, 6) Reassess the southern boundary of the NRU by including northeast Florida, and 7) Develop an optimal subsampling protocol for efficient long-term monitoring.High priority recovery actions addressed include: a) Refine geographic boundaries of recovery units [111, priority 2], b) Monitor trends in nesting [122, priority 1], c) Incorporate standardized nesting survey protocols on additional beaches to fully represent recovery units [123, priority 2], d) Conduct periodic censuses for the recovery units to obtain total nest counts and geographic distribution of nesting [125, priority 2], e) Estimate indices of abundance and determine trends [132, priority 2], f) Determine and monitor clutch frequency [153, priority 2], g) Determine and monitor remigration interval [154, priority 2], and h) Determine age-specific survival probabilities [1614, priority 2].   Any questions regarding this notification should be addressed to NOAA’s Headquarters at (202) 482-6090.   National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) Grant Recipient: Trees Atlanta, Inc. Grant Project Title: Enota Park and Proctor Creek Restoration (GA) Amount: N/A Additional Details: Trees Atlanta and partners will remove six acres of invasive species and trash, replant native species to stabilize slopes and streambanks, and highlight the project through adult and youth education programming. In addition, partners will redesign the portion of Proctor Creek that flows through the site and complete a full park design. Project will capitalize on the proximity and timing of the Atlanta BeltLine Westside Trail (Enota Park Portion) project set for completion by the end of 2017. Partners include the Atlanta BeltLine, Park Pride, the City of Atlanta and the Westview Community Organization. Grant Recipient: Emerald Corridor Foundation Grant Project Title: Proctor Creek Rain Garden Partnership (GA) Amount: N/A Additional Details: Emerald Corridor Foundation and partners will engage the community in creating a rain garden demonstration project. The rain garden will use native vegetation and drainage techniques to restore habitat, support natural hydrology, and reduce stormwater runoff flows. Project will showcase green infrastructure and land stewardship as tools for urban watershed restoration and conservation. Partners include the Proctor Creek Community Partnership, the Greening Youth Foundation, the Grove Park Neighborhood Association and B+C Studio. Grant Recipient: Atlanta Audubon Society Grant Project Title: Restoring Bird-Friendly Habitat in Peachtree Creek Watershed (GA) Amount: N/A Additional Details: Atlanta Audubon Society and partners will restore 15 acres of bird habitat on two sites in the Peachtree Creek Watershed and create baseline bird data to aid conservation planning. Project will provide numerous citizen science and education opportunities to the local community and double the partnership's local impact on bird habitat. Activities will result in 125 community volunteers engaged and 500 people educated. Partners include the Olmstead Linear Parks Alliance, the City of Clarkston, Friends of Friendship Forest, the Greening Youth Foundation, the National Audubon Society and the Georgia Native Plant Society. Any questions regarding this notification should be addressed to the Office of Congressional Relations division of the NFWF at (202) 857-0166.     ####",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-applauds-essential-air-service-for-middle-georgia,Congressman Bishop Applauds Essential Air Service for Middle Georgia Regional Airport,2016-09-01,2016,2016-09,Democrat,House,GA,Sanford Bishop,B000490,bishop.house.gov,,,legacy,"MACON, GA – Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) welcomes the Department of Transportation's determination to continue Essential Air Service (EAS) eligibility for Middle Georgia Regional Airport (MCN). This vital program connects small and regional communities across the country. EAS eligibility for Middle Georgia Regional Airport will help to ensure the airport can expand to include regular commercial services for Macon, Georgia and the surrounding region. “This determination will allow Middle Georgia Regional Airport to increase their range of services,” said Congressman Bishop. “The airport is an important economic engine for the Middle Georgia Region, and I look forward to working with Middle Georgia Regional Airport, Macon-Bibb County, and the surrounding communities to continue to enhance economic opportunities.” Middle Georgia Regional Airport is a city-owned regional airport located outside of Macon, GA. The airport is used for a number of aviation purposes, including aircraft maintenance and repair for large and small aircraft, aerial surveys, charter and recreational flights, and military training exercises. The airport provides approximately $200,000,000 in economic output for the local and regional economies.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/volunteers-of-america-southeast-recieves-1000000-grant-from-us,"VOLUNTEERS OF AMERICA SOUTHEAST RECIEVES $1,000,000 GRANT FROM U.S DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS",2016-09-01,2016,2016-09,Democrat,House,GA,Sanford Bishop,B000490,bishop.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC - Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) is proud to share that the U.S Department of Veteran’s Affairs (VA) has awarded the Volunteers of America Southeast (VOASE) a $1,000,000 grant to provide and facilitate stable housing for veterans and their families facing the specter of homelessness. “Volunteers of America Southeast has worked diligently to aid veterans and their families in acquiring housing and finding employment,” said Congressman Bishop. “They provide invaluable assistance to the veterans living in the 2nd Congressional District of Georgia and throughout the Southeast.” This grant will provide veterans’ families with outreach, case management, and assistance in obtaining VA and other benefits. Founded in 1896, Volunteers of America is one of the country’s largest human service organizations and helps improve the lives of nearly 1.8 million people each year. VOASE is the second largest affiliate of Volunteers of America in the country and provides programs in Georgia, Mississippi, and Alabama. VOASE serves over 2,000 people daily with their direct programs and 8,000 people annually through community outreach. This grant was awarded through the VA’s Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) Program, which provided a total of $300 million grants across the country. Over $6 million was awarded to non-profits working throughout the state of Georgia. These organizations included Volunteers of America Southeast, Action Ministries Inc., Decatur Cooperative Ministry Inc., United Way of Metropolitan Atlanta, Travelers Aid of Metropolitan Atlanta Inc., and Central Savannah River Area Economic Opportunity Authority, Inc. More information on VA’s SSVF Program can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-honored-by-us-chamber-with-spirit-of-enterprise-award,CONGRESSMAN BISHOP HONORED BY U.S. CHAMBER WITH SPIRIT OF ENTERPRISE AWARD,2016-08-31,2016,2016-08,Democrat,House,GA,Sanford Bishop,B000490,bishop.house.gov,,,legacy,"COLUMBUS, GEORGIA – Today, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce presented its Spirit of Enterprise Award to Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (D-GA) in recognition of his support of pro-growth policies during the 114th Congress. The award was presented during a meeting of the Georgia State House of Representatives’ Military Affairs Study Committee held at the National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center in Columbus, Georgia, just outside of Fort Benning. “It is an honor to earn this award from the U.S. Chamber, particularly in a forum that brings together our military, business, and community leaders,” stated Congressman Bishop. “It is vital that we preserve our military installations in Georgia and expand business development opportunities for local communities, and I stand committed to continued work on these goals.” The meeting at the National Infantry Museum was hosted by the Georgia State House of Representatives’ Military Affairs Study Committee. In addition to members of the Georgia House of Representatives, the meeting included Congressman Sanford Bishop, local elected officials, military and community leaders, and members of the local and national chambers of commerce. Senator Johnny Isakson (R-GA) also participated in the afternoon session of the meeting. Attendees examined and discussed how best to protect and support Georgia’s military installations now and in the future. Congressman Bishop spoke yesterday with the Study Committee as it examined similar issues surrounding the Marine Corps Logistics Base in Albany, Georgia. Congressman Bishop also joined Congressman Austin Scott (R-GA) in the Study Committee’s meeting at Robins Air Force Base at Warner Robins, Georgia on Wednesday, August 10. Congressman Bishop has long served as a champion for both the business community in Georgia and for Georgia’s service members and veterans. He currently serves as the Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Military Construction and Veteran Affairs and as Co-Chair of the Congressional Military Family Caucus. The U.S. Chamber is the world’s largest business federation representing more than 3 million businesses of every size, sector, and region.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-johnson-renames-pine-lake-post-office-fallen-officer-francis-manuel,Rep. Johnson renames Pine Lake Post Office for fallen officer Francis Manuel Ortega,2016-08-30,2016,2016-08,Democrat,House,GA,Hank Johnson,J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,,,legacy,"PINE LAKE, GA – On Saturday, August 27, Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) – along with Pine Lake officials, the U.S. Postal Service and members of the community – officially renamed Pine Lake’s Post Office in honor of fallen police officer Francis Manuel Ortega. On August 11, 2005, Officer Ortega, then 25, was shot and killed in front of the Pine Lake Post Office while conducting a routine traffic stop. Officer Ortega was a part-time officer of the Pine Lake Police Department and a full-time officer at Georgia Regional Hospital.  Ortega’s family – his parents Francisco and Luz, his sister Joann, and his children Frankey and Kaylie – joined the community for the renaming ceremony. Ortega’s sister Joann joined the rest of her family and the gathered crowd in fighting back tears. She thanked the Congressman and his staff for pushing for the renaming bill to become law so her brother “may be deeply missed but he will never be forgotten.” The dedication plaque with Officer Ortega’s name is now displayed in the front corridor of the Pine Lake Post Office. The ceremony took shape once Rep. Johnson’s bill H.R.3274 renaming the building became law on June 13. “Officer Ortega’s commitment to justice and willingness to face danger when others turned away, his desire to stand up for what was right – not what was easy, and his compassion for those in need should be applauded, commended and recognized in perpetuity,” said Johnson. The Pine Lake Post Office, which sits on Rockbridge Road and Spring Drive in the Fourth Congressional District, was filled beyond capacity at the ceremony. Congressman Johnson was joined by State Sen. Steve Henson; Pine Lake’s current and past mayors – Melanie Hammet, Kathie deNobriga and Greg Zarus; DeKalb County’s Chief Operating Officer of Public Safety Dr. Cedric L. Alexander; Pine Lake’s Police Chief, Sara Y’hudah-Green, as well as DeKalb County and Pine Lake police officers, their police chiefs and members of the community. Cutline: Rep. Hank Johnson (GA-04) presents the Ortega family with a plaque dedicating and renaming the Pine Lake Post Office in honor of fallen police officer Francis Manuel Ortega, who was killed outside the post office in 2005.    ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/smithsonian-offering-free-timed-entry-passes-visit-new-national-museum,Smithsonian Offering Free Timed-Entry Passes To Visit the New National Museum of African American History and Culture,2016-08-29,2016,2016-08,Democrat,House,GA,Hank Johnson,J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,,,legacy,"The dedication of the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture will take place Saturday, Sept. 24, on the National Mall.  Following the dedication ceremony, the museum will be open to the public Saturday, Sept. 24, 1–6 p.m., and Sunday, Sept. 25, 10 a.m.–midnight. Due to the size, nature and high level of interest in the dedication ceremony, the museum is distributing timed-entry passes to serve as many visitors as possible while maintaining a smooth flow of people into the museum.  Timed passes are required for entrance into the museum and will continue indefinitely. Beginning Saturday, Aug. 27, at 9 a.m. EDT, timed passes will be available through the museum’s website (www.nmaahc.si.edu). There will be no same-day walk-up passes available Sept. 24 or Sept. 25. The passes are timed at 15-minute intervals. There will be no limit on the amount of time visitors spend inside the museum. Timed passes can be accessed in advance online and by phone. On Monday, Sept. 26, the museum will begin distributing a limited number of free same-day timed passes on a first-come, first-served basis.  Online: Free timed passes for visitors will be available online at nmaahc.si.edu beginning Saturday, Aug. 27, at 9 a.m. EDT. There is a limit of six free timed passes per email address. [https://t.co/IV7gX5fckj] Toll-free Phone: Up to six free timed passes obtained through the Customer Support Center will be emailed or mailed in advance. Contact ETIX Customer Support Center at (800) 514-3849 or (919) 653-0443. Hours of operation: Monday–Saturday, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sunday, noon to 8 p.m. EDT.  Nonprofit Groups: School, student, religious and community-based organizations with groups of 10 or more may obtain free advance timed passes by phone. It is recommended groups provide at least one adult chaperone for every five students under the age of 18. Contact ETIX Customer Support Center at (800) 514-3849 or (919) 653-0443. Same-day Passes in Person: Four free timed passes per visitor can be obtained in person at the museum on the same day of the visit. Passes are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis by the museum’s Visitor Services staff at beginning at 9:15 a.m. daily. Commercial Tour Operators: Passes for commercial tour operators are available only through ETIX Customer Support Center at (800) 514-3849 or (919) 653-0443. Dedication Weekend Activities: Large crowds are expected for the dedication of the National Museum of African American History and Culture. Security screenings will occur at entrances to viewing areas on the Washington Monument grounds for the dedication ceremony and the Freedom Sounds Festival.  Security clearances also are required for all visitors entering the National Museum of African American History and Culture. There will be no general public admission to the grounds of the museum during the dedication ceremony Saturday, Sept. 24. However, the public is invited to watch the ceremony from the grounds of the Washington Monument and on Jumbotrons around the site. Visitors can gain entry to the site only through security screening at access points at 17th Street N.W. and Constitution Avenue N.W. or at 17th Street S.W. and Independence Avenue S.W. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-bishop-rep-mcmorris-rodgers-work-for-military-families-at-2016,"REP. BISHOP, REP. MCMORRIS RODGERS WORK FOR MILITARY FAMILIES AT 2016 CONGRESSIONAL MILITARY FAMILY CAUCUS SUMMIT",2016-08-18,2016,2016-08,Democrat,House,GA,Sanford Bishop,B000490,bishop.house.gov,,,legacy,"SPOKANE, WA – Today, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (D-GA), Co-Chair of the Congressional Military Family Caucus (CMFC) and Ranking Member of the U.S. House Appropriations Subcommittee on Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies joined Co-Chair Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA), staff from Congressional offices, officials from the Department of Defense and Fairchild Air Force Base, representatives from military service organizations, and over 60 military family and service members at the annual Congressional Military Family Caucus Summit at Fairchild Air Force Base in Spokane, Washington. “We must remember that when men and women join our armed forces, their families join as well,” said Congressman Bishop. “This understanding led Congresswoman McMorris Rodgers and me to found the Congressional Military Family Caucus nearly seven years ago. This Summit, as well as previous Summits and future Summits, continues the dialogue between families, lawmakers, military leaders, and support organizations to address the unique hardships that military families face. After asking our Active Duty, National Guard, and Reserve members and their families to endure multiple deployments, we in Congress must fulfill our obligation to support increased spousal and widow employment, the education of military children, fair and complete benefits, as well as health care options and coverage. According to Congresswoman McMorris Rodgers, the goal of the caucus is to ""bring together Members of Congress, Administration officials, and service members and their families in a common purpose to draw attention to the needs of military families and advocate legislative ideas on their behalf."" “The strength of our military is drawn from the strength of their families and we want to do all we can to protect our warriors and their loved ones,” concluded Congressman Bishop. Hosted by Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers, today’s CMFC Summit serves as a direct channel between the Caucus and military families. Held by the CMFC annually, the Summit works to connect military families with Members of Congress, the Department of Defense, and private sector groups to discuss the challenges and pressing issues impacting America’s servicemen and their families as well as offer resources. Panel discussions addressed critical issues including military pay and benefits; military child education; and military spousal employment, community involvement, and transition. The CMFC is a bipartisan congressional caucus that educates elected officials, congressional staffers, senior military leaders and the public on a wide range of unique issues that affect military families. Currently, over 80 Democrats and Republicans are members of the CMFC.  For coverage of the 2015 summit at Fort Benning, Georgia, please click here. For coverage of the 2014 summit at Fairchild AFB in Spokane, Washington, please click here. For coverage of the 2013 summit at Fort Benning, Georgia, please click here. For coverage of the 2012 summit at Fort Benning, Georgia, please click here. For coverage of the 2011 summit at Fairchild AFB in Spokane, Washington, please click here. For more information about the Congressional Military Family Caucus, please click here.   Below is the full text of Congressman Sanford D. Bishop’s prepared opening remarks at the Congressional Military Family Caucus Summit: Good Morning and thank you for joining us today for this year’s Congressional Military Family Caucus Family Summit (CMFC)! It is a great pleasure to be amongst those who have such a big impact on making America great – our brave men and women in uniform and you who admirably support those that defend our nation and safeguard our liberties. I want to thank my colleague and Co-Chair of the Congressional Military Family Caucus, Congresswoman Cathy McMorris-Rodgers, for hosting the summit this year at Fairchild Air Force Base. For Congresswoman McMorris-Rodgers, many of our colleagues in the Congressional Military Family Caucus, and myself, the issues discussed today are important to us not just because of our constituencies, but due to our deeply personal connection as well. Experiences like my wife’s have taught me that our service members and their families serve and sacrifice together. When men and women join our armed forces, the families join as well! I would be remiss if I did not also thank Colonel Ryan R. Samuelson and Colonel Daniel J. Swain for welcoming us here today. Also, many thanks to our keynote speaker – Michelle Aikman, Armed Forces Insurance Air Force Spouse of the Year - for her participation in today’s event. I commend you for your current, and future, work on behalf of our military families. I would also like to thank our moderators and panelists that will be facilitating the Summit today. Almost seven years ago Congresswoman McMorris-Rodgers and I founded this Caucus to honor the debt our nation holds for the sacrifices military families continue to make. We are deeply grateful to organizations such as Blue Star Families, the Military Child Education Coalition, the Military Officer Association of America, the Red Cross, USAA Military Advocacy, National Military Family Association, and all of the military family support organizations represented here today. Your expertise continues to provide us with background on issues most important to the spouses, widows, and children of military service members stationed across the world. Sometimes it is easy to recognize the sacrifices our service members make without being fully aware of the tremendous hardships their families must endure. We feel it is equally important to educate elected officials, congressional staffers, senior military leaders, and the public on a wide range of issues affecting military families. Additionally, I would like to salute the outstanding work being done on behalf of our military families by First Lady Michelle Obama and Dr. Jill Biden through Joining Forces Initiative as well as Members of the bipartisan Senate Military Family Caucus – cosponsored by Senators Barbara Boxer and Richard Burr. Most of all, I would like to thank the service members, military families, widows, and veterans joining us today. Our nation will forever be grateful for your selfless sacrifices and service to our nation. Congresswoman McMorris-Rodgers and I are incredibly proud to have everyone here today and wanted to kick off the Summit by shining a light on the issues of particular concern to military families; changes to pay and retirement military benefits, challenges for military children, military spouse employment; community involvement; and transition. Over time and at the previous military family summits, the gathered feedback has included: -              Mental Health impacts of over a decade at war; -              Educational challenges facing military children; -              Service members transitioning from active duty service to the civilian sector; and -              Health care and caregiver concerns In the past, the feedback received was vital to our efforts in finding policy solutions that benefit our nation’s beloved veterans, widows, and military families. So today, I ask that you feel free to speak your mind and share your personal story. This event will provide our caucus a direction for the rest of the 114th Congress, and it is your input that points us to where we need to go. I am proud of the military families living in my district in Georgia at Fort Benning in Columbus, the Marine Corps Logistics Base in Albany, and the communities around Robins Air Force Base in Georgia. They are a living embodiment of the eternal optimism we hold in our country. They proudly volunteered to join the less than one percent to serve our nation here and abroad, in support of their soldier, sailor, airman, or marine. Truly, military families are the backbone of our military. And after asking our Active Duty, National Guard, Reserve members, and their families to endure multiple deployments, we in Congress must meet our commitment to support increased spousal and widow employment, the education of military children, fair and complete benefits, as well as health care options and coverage. We cannot rest and rely on the progress made in the past. We must continue to work on areas that need improvement, and explore new areas of concern. So, I would ask all those here today, who value our military families, to continue this dialog with us. The members of our Caucus, and other members of Congress, need to hear from you. Your voices are important and extremely powerful. We cannot forget -- military service is about people. How we care for service members and their families, determine the success of the most professional all volunteer force this world has even seen, now and into the future. We hope that you will actively participate in the breakout sessions and help us to work together, improve military families’ quality of life, and expand your opportunities. God Bless. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/advisory-rep-johnson-renaming-pine-lake-post-office-fallen-officer,Advisory: Rep. Johnson renaming Pine Lake Post Office for fallen officer Ortega,2016-08-18,2016,2016-08,Democrat,House,GA,Hank Johnson,J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,,,legacy,"LITHONIA, GA – On Saturday, August 27, Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) – along with the Ortega family, Pine Lake officials and members of the community – will gather to officially rename the city’s Post Office in honor of fallen police officer Francis Manuel Ortega. WHO: Rep. Hank Johnson, a member of the House Judiciary & Armed Services Committees; members of the Ortega family; U.S. Post Office representatives; Pine Lake Mayor Melanie Hammet; Pine Lake Police Chief Sarai Y’hudah-Green; members of the greater Pine Lake community; WHAT: Renaming the Pine Lake Post Office at Rockbridge Road and Spring Drive in honor of fallen police officer Francis Manuel Ortega; WHEN: Saturday, August 27, 2016, 1 p.m. WHERE: 4567 Rockbridge Rd. SW, Pine Lake, GA 30072. WHY: On August 11, 2005, Officer Ortega, then 25, was shot and killed in front of the Pine Lake Post Office while conducting a routine traffic stop. Officer Ortega was a part-time officer of the Pine Lake Police Department and a full-time officer at Georgia Regional Hospital.  Officer Ortega was survived by his parents Francisco and Luz, his sister Joann, and his children Frankey and Kaylie. “Officer Ortega made the ultimate sacrifice and gave his life for the protection of his community,” said Johnson, who was a DeKalb County commissioner in 2005 when the incident occurred. “Officer Ortega’s commitment to justice and willingness to face danger when others turned away, his desire to stand up for what was right – not what was easy, and his compassion for those in need should be applauded, commended and recognized in perpetuity.” The public is welcome to attend. Please RSVP by calling Rep. Johnson's district office at 770-987-2291.  ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-johnson-celebrates-81st-anniversary-social-security-being-signed-law,Rep. Johnson Celebrates 81st Anniversary of Social Security Being Signed into Law,2016-08-10,2016,2016-08,Democrat,House,GA,Hank Johnson,J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Vows to Protect Social Security from Republican Efforts to Cut Benefits, and Ensure Social Security Is There for Future Generations LITHONIA, GA – Today, Rep. Hank Johnson (GA-04) marked the 81st anniversary of the enactment of the Social Security program. President Franklin Delano Roosevelt signed Social Security into law on August 14, 1935.    “Social Security is one of the greatest achievements of the Democratic Party,” Rep. Johnson said. “For 81 years, Social Security has represented a bedrock promise to the American people – that a lifetime of hard work will be rewarded with a secure and dignified retirement.” “As we celebrate Social Security’s 81st birthday, we need to remember the real-life impact that America’s most successful program continues to have on millions of Americans each year and ensure that Social Security is there for future generations,” Rep. Johnson added.   Social Security has been a stable and secure source of income for millions of seniors and families, many of whom desperately need it, over these last eight decades.  Social Security’s economic impact also goes well beyond the seniors and families receiving benefits – it also benefits state economies and local businesses all across the country. Nearly 60 million Americans spend $883 billion in Social Security benefits nationwide each year – supporting businesses with dollars they wouldn’t have without Social Security.  Yet, Congressional Republicans continue to promote their callous plans to rob seniors of the economic security they count on by privatizing or partially privatizing Social Security and starving the Social Security Administration of the funding needed to provide quality, timely assistance to Americans. In fact, this year, House Republicans have put forward a plan that would result in closed offices and longer wait times and delays for recipients, including those waiting for disability claims decisions.  “Over the last 81 years, Democrats have protected and strengthened Social Security; and now and in the future, Democrats will always act to preserve Social Security and safeguard the rights of our nation’s seniors,” Rep. Johnson concluded. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://johnlewis.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-lewis-51st-anniversary-voting-rights-act,Rep. Lewis on 51st Anniversary Of the Voting Rights Act,2016-08-05,2016,2016-08,Democrat,House,GA,John Lewis,L000287,johnlewis.house.gov,,,legacy,"""On August 6, 1965--51 years ago--I was looking over the shoulder of President Lyndon Johnson as he signed the Voting Rights Act (VRA) of 1965 into law. It was a crowning moment in the struggle for human dignity in this country that opened access to the ballot box for millions of Americans. ""It made the so-called literacy tests, grandfather clauses and other ploys used to block voting access illegal, but it also ultimately opened up the political process for other language and ethnic minorities to cast votes in every election. It also employed a very effective process that blocked discriminatory voting practices from becoming law. ""In the 50 years that followed, the VRA changed the shape of electoral politics in America, giving millions a voice in our society for the first time in our history. It was hailed as one of the most effective pieces of legislation Congress had ever passed, but that all came to an end in 2013 when the U.S. Supreme Court gutted the VRA in the Shelby County v. Holder decision. The court invalidated the most powerful tool of the bill, the process that stopped new discriminatory practices from becoming law. ""The court decided this even though Chief Justice John Roberts admitted in his opinion that 'voting discrimination still exists; no one doubts that...'  Almost immediately states which were anticipating the decision, including Texas and North Carolina, enacted some of the most restrictive voting changes in the country. Recently two courts of appeal struck down those changes made in Texas and North Carolina as overtly discriminatory, but dozens of states still have these changes on the books. ""This will be the first national election in this country in decades without the protection of the VRA. Congress must take action to defend millions of voters from the discrimination the court acknowledged still exists. There are two bills which have already been introduced in the House and the Senate. Both would fix the gaping holes left in the VRA by the Shelby decision. ""The vote is precious, almost sacred. It is the most powerful non-violent tool for change we have a democratic society. We need to return the VRA to its original effectiveness to ensure that every citizen has a say in the future of our democracy. "" ####",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://davidscott.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=397727,"Congressman David Scott, Senator Johnny Isakson Announce Bill Honoring Fallen Riverdale Officer Signed into Law",2016-08-01,2016,2016-08,Democrat,House,GA,David Scott,S001157,davidscott.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today Congressman David Scott (GA-13) and Senator Johnny Isakson announced that a bill honoring the first Riverdale police officer to die in the line of duty has been signed into law. The bipartisan measure, H.R.4747, designates the U.S. Postal Service office in Riverdale, Ga., as the Major Greg E. Barney Post Office Building. On February 11, 2016, Major Barney, was shot and killed while giving chase to a suspect during a raid on an illegal drug operation. Major Barney was a 25-year veteran of the Riverdale Police Department. During his career in Riverdale, Major Barney was a school resource officer at Riverdale High School, a sergeant and a captain. In 2004, Barney became the first African-American to serve as Chief of Police when appointed Interim Chief. Today is a proud moment for Georgia and our nation as we honor the service of a true hero, said Rep. Scott. I am grateful for the Senate and President Obamas swift action to pass and adopt this bill. Major Gregory Barney was an officer who made the ultimate sacrifice; there is no greater love than to lay down one's life for one's friends. He served the Riverdale community with a high nobility of purpose and enjoyed a distinguished career in law enforcement. One day soon, Major Barneys family, his fellow officers, and residents of Riverdale and throughout Georgia will look upon the Major Gregory E. Barney Post Office Building with great pride, respect and admiration for generations to come."" I have the utmost appreciation and respect for our law enforcement officers who willingly dedicate their lives for the betterment of our communities, and we especially remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty, said Sen. Isakson. Major Greg E. Barney served the Riverdale community with great integrity, and he paid the ultimate price protecting his community. We can never repay the debt owed to Major Barney and his family for his commitment to serving Georgians, but I am so pleased that his heroism and selfless sacrifice will be long remembered in his community through the designation of the Major Gregory E. Barney Post Office Building. H.R.4747 designates the U.S. Postal Service facility located at 6691 Church Street in Riverdale, Ga., as the Major Gregory E. Barney Post Office Building.Congressman Scott introduced H.R. 4747 in March with bipartisan support from the entire Georgia congressional delegation.The legislation passed the House of Representatives unanimously on May 24, 2016, and also passed unanimously in the Senate on July 14, 2016. President Barack Obama signed the measure into law on July 29, 2016.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-johnson-clarifies-remarks-israeli-settlement-enterprise,Rep. Johnson clarifies and apologizes for remarks on Israeli settlement enterprise,2016-07-26,2016,2016-07,Democrat,House,GA,Hank Johnson,J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Hank Johnson clarified and apologized today regarding his remarks about the Israeli settlement enterprise during a panel held outside the Democratic National Convention in Philadelphia: “We must work to promote policies that support a two-state solution and encourage trust between both sides,” said Congressman Johnson. The congressman regrets his comments. He did not intend to insult or speak derogatorily of Israelis or the Jewish people. When using the metaphor of termites, the Congressman was referring to the corrosive process, not the people.  “Poor choice of words – I meant no offense. The point is settlement activity has slowly and deliberately undermined Palestinian land claims.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-hank-johnson-announces-2016-app-challenge,Congressman Hank Johnson announces 2016 App Challenge,2016-07-25,2016,2016-07,Democrat,House,GA,Hank Johnson,J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) has announced that the 2016 Congressional App Challenge, a competition designed to engage student creativity and promote their participation in computer science and coding, is open to Fourth District students. All high school students who live or attend schools in the Fourth Congressional District are eligible. Students entering the competition must submit their app to Challenge.gov by noon on November 2, 2016. Established by members of the U.S. House of Representatives in 2013, the nationwide effort allows students to compete against their peers by creating an application or “app,” for mobile, tablet, or computer devices. The Challenge is designed to promote innovation and engagement in coding and computer science. Submissions will be judged on: quality of the idea, including creativity and originality; implementation of the idea, including user experience and design; and demonstrated excellence of coding and programming skills. The winner from Georgia’s Fourth Congressional District, chosen by a panel of expert judges, will be featured on www.congressionalappchallenge.us/compete-2016/, and the winning app will also be on display in the U.S. Capitol, honoring the winners from across the country. This is Rep. Johnson’s second year of holding the competition in Congressional District 4. For more information, please visit the official Congressional App Challenge website at CongressionalAppChallenge.us or contact Congressman Johnson’s Community Outreach Liaison Joshua Smith at Joshua.Smith@mail.house.gov, Student Outreach Coordinator Xeron Pledger at XeronPLedger@mail.house.gov or call 770-987-2291.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://johnlewis.house.gov/media-center/federal-grant-announcements/federal-grants-announcement-665-million-grants,Federal Grants Announcement - $66.5 Million in Grants,2016-07-21,2016,2016-07,Democrat,House,GA,John Lewis,L000287,johnlewis.house.gov,,,legacy,"Periodically, Rep. John Lewis is notified that organizations within the 5th Congressional District have been selected to receive a variety of federal grants.  This federal grants announcement will advise press and constituents of these notifications.  This announcement details about $66,462,846 in federal grants coming to the 5th Congressional District. What is the funding process for federal grants? There are two basic ways the federal government awards funds, through mandatory funding or discretionary funding.  Members of Congress vote on “authorizing” legislation that funds the mandatory commitments of the federal government for programs like Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, unemployment insurance and SNAP.  Also every year, levels of discretionary funding are determined during the Congressional appropriations process.  Rep. Lewis and all other members of Congress work to ensure that federal programs which provide key services within their districts are funded at levels requested by local government authorities and constituents they represent.    The federal grants announced by this release fall mainly in the discretionary category.  The money appropriated by Congress is sent to the federal agencies, such as the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) or of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), which then disburse it directly to the states and local governments.  Sometimes federal agencies issue requests for proposals which place states, cities, and local organizations in competition with others around the country for the opportunity to gain federal support for a local project.  This is where the efficacy of city and state organizations are tested to determine whether they can compete effectively to receive those funds. Rep. Lewis often meets with and advises city, state or local agencies to help them strategize effective methods of engaging the federal agencies throughout the grant process. Pell Grants, Byrne Justice Assistance, veterans’ services, LIHEAP home heating support, early education, COPS, YouthBuild, Jobs Corps, the CDC, minority health programs, TIGER, critical disease research initiatives, tenant and fair housing assistance all stem from Congressional discretionary funding.  Recent successful discretionary grant efforts from the 5th Congressional District of Georgia include the Atlanta Streetcar, the Multimodal Passenger Terminal, the Atlanta BeltLine, and the UTC.  Through his District Office, Rep. Lewis offers grants assistance and workshops to explain the federal grants process.  Please call 404-659-0116 if you are interested in participating in one of these workshops.  Following is the list of the most recently granted federal funds to the 5th Congressional District. If you are seeking more information about any one of these federal grants, please consult the granting information for more details on their selection process. Grants over $500,000 are highlighted. This is to inform you that the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, the National Science Foundation, National Institute of Standards and Technology, U.S. Department of Transportation, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, National Endowment for the Arts, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and the Department of Education will be announcing the following grant award(s) to recipient(s) within your Congressional district and state.    Grant Notifications U.S. Department of Health & Human Services Grant Recipient: Georgia Department of Public Health Grant Project Title: Maternal and Child Health Services Amount: $6,223,560 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:157042             Recipient: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Grant Project Title: National State-Based Tobacco Control Programs Amount: $1,092,902 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:157148   Recipient: Georgia Institute of Technology Grant Project Title: St. Joseph’s Mercy Care Services Amount: $2,586,756 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:157157   Recipient: Health Education, Assessment and Leadership, Inc. Grant Project Title: H80 - Health Center Cluster Amount: $1,121,725 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:157376   Recipient: Emory University Grant Project Title: Epigenetic Mechanisms of Inflammation and Fatigue in Head and Neck Cancer Patients Amount: $504,459 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:157396   Recipient: Morehouse School of Medicine Grant Project Title: Kidney Injury Molecule-1 in Diabetic Nephropathy Amount: $355,000 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:157425   Recipient: YMCA/Early Childhood Development Co., LLC Grant Project Title: Head Start and Early Head Start Amount: $8,429,321 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:157542   Recipient: Emory University Grant Project Title: Multidisciplinary Research Training to Reduce Inequities in Cardiovascular Health Amount: $253,017 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:157622 Recipient: Georgia State Department of Public Health Grant Project Title: Georgia Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System Amount: $133,000 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:157751   Recipient: Emory University Grant Project Title: Rolipram Revisited: New Roles for PDE4 and AMPK in the Etiology of Affective Disorders Amount: $434,414 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:158028   Recipient: Georgia Institute of Technology Grant Project Title: Evolution of Urate Metabolism Amount: $330,747 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:158041   Recipient: Georgia Institute of Technology Grant Project Title: Interplay of Inherent Promiscuity and Specificity in Protein Biochemical Function with Applications to Drug Discovery and Exome Analysis Amount: $489,511 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:158079   Recipient: Emory University Grant Project Title: SAMHD1 Controls dNTP Pool and HIV Sensitivity to NRTIs Amount: $311,220 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:158102   Recipient: The Family Health Center of Georgia, Inc. Grant Project Title: Health Center Cluster Amount: $4,226,059 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:158496 Recipient: Southside Medical Center, Inc. Grant Project Title: Health Center Cluster Amount: $7,479,529 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:158503   Recipient: Emory University Grant Project Title: Prevention of Vascular Calcification in Chronic Kidney Disease Amount: $451,500 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:159333   Recipient: Emory University Grant Project Title: Experiental Citizen Science Training for the Next Generation Amount: $269,149 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:159667   Recipient: Georgia State University Grant Project Title: Neurobiology of Social Behavior Amount: $113,625 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:159739   Recipient: Georgia State University Grant Project Title: Probing Glia Identity in C. elegans Amount: $75,750 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:159715   Recipient: Emory University Grant Project Title: Critical Care Training Program Amount: $297,528 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:160271   Recipient: Emory University Grant Project Title: Metabolic Regulation of Hematopoietic Stem Cells Amount: $273,000 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:160581   Recipient: Emory University Grant Project Title: Nephrology Institutional Training Grant Amount: $222,543 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:160585   Recipient: Emory University Grant Project Title: Training In Systems and Integrative Biology Neuroscience Amount: $326,145 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:161913 Recipient: Emory University Grant Project Title: Biogenesis of IL-1a in Inflammatory Process Amount: $195,000 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:161195   Recipient: Health Education, Assessment and Leadership, Inc. Grant Project Title: Health Center Cluster Amount: $350,000 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:161640   Recipient: St. Joseph’s Mercy Care Service Grant Project Title: Health Center Cluster Amount: $525,000 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:161267   Recipient: D/B/A Grady Health System of Grady Memorial Hospital Corporation Grant Project Title: Primary Care Training and Enhancement Amount: $498,001 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:161953   Recipient: Georgia Institute of Technology Grant Project Title: uSHEAR Technology for Cancer Cell Purificaiton Amount: $187,667 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:156073   Recipient: Morehouse School of Medicine, Inc Grant Project Title: Replicating Evidence Based Teen Pregnancy Prevention Programs to Scale in Communities with the Greatest Need (Tier 1B) Amount: $1,249,999 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:161937 Recipient: Georgia Department of Public Health Grant Project Title: Georgia Core State Violence and Injury Prevention Program Amount: $249,999 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:162072   Recipient: The Family Health Centers of Georgia, Inc. Grant Project Title: Georgia Family Planning System Amount: $7,980,000 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:162074   Recipient: Emory University Grant Project Title: Optimizing Adjuvants and Needle Free Delivery Methods for Oral HIV Vaccination Amount: $750,988 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:162101   Recipient: Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning Grant Project Title: Early Head Start Partnership Project Amount: $3,452,682 Additional Details:  https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:163456   Recipient: Morehouse School of Medicine Grant Project Title: Circadian regulation of RPE functions Amount: $372,500 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:163614 Recipient: Emory University Grant Project Title: Functional effects of ion channel mutations found via exome sequencing Amount: $ 261,240 Additional Details: https://hhsgrants.econsys.com/apex/f?p=103:210:0::NO:210:P210_GRANT_ID:164435   Any questions regarding this notification should be addressed to the HHS Press office at (202) 690-6343.   National Science Foundation (NSF)   Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: AF: Medium: Collaborative Research: The Power of Randomness for Approximate Counting Amount: $800,000 Additional Details: http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1563838                                             Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: I-Corps: AirBox: Bringing the Cloud to the Edge Amount: $50,000 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1638582   Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: Dynamics and Kinetics Amount: $375,000 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1600568   Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: I-Corps: Reducing Oscillation of Systems Driven by Stepper Motors and On-Off Actuators Amount: $50,000 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1640504   Grant Recipient: Clark Atlanta University Grant Project Title: Research Initiation Award: Toward Bionanoscience - Binding of Amino Acids with Graphene and N-doped Graphene Amount: $299,986 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1601071       Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: I-Corps: Reducing Oscillation of Systems Driven by Stepper Motors and On-Off Actuators Amount: $50,000 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1640504       Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: Collaborative Research: Mining Seismic Wavefields Amount: $149,427 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1551022   Grant Recipient: Georgia State University Research Foundation, Inc. Grant Project Title: Collaborative Research: Operando Three-dimensional Super-resolution Imaging of Catalytic Events in Porous Nanocatalysts Amount: $300,000 Additional Details: http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1609225   Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: I-Corps: System for Automatic Analysis of Surgical Skills Amount: $50,000 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1634683       Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: Doctoral Consortium on Natural Language Processing for Computational Social Science Amount: $20,000 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1641005      Grant Recipient: Emory University Grant Project Title: I-Corps: Omicseq: An Omics Data Search Engine Amount: $50,000 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1640848      Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: Student Support to Attend 7th Conference on Bioinformatics, Computational Biology, and Health Informatics (ACM BCB 2016) Amount: $25,000 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1642377      Grant Recipient: Emory University Grant Project Title: Collaborative Research: Food Insecurity and Mental Health in Global Perspective: Social and Nutritional Pathways Amount: $93,528 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1560458   Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: From Negative to Zero Thermal Expansion IR Transparent Materials Using the Defect Chemistry of ReO3-Type Fluorides Amount: $304,382 Additional Details: http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1607316   Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: Exponential Systems and Related Topics Amount: $150,000 Additional Details: http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1600726   Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: Wave Turbulence and Long-Time Dynamics of Dispersive Partial Differential Equations Amount: $150,000 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1600561        Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: TWC: Medium: Collaborative: Systems, Tools, and Techniques for Executing, Managing, and Securing SGX Programs Amount: $671,776 Additional Details: http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1563848   Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: Sparse Integer Programming Amount: $293,712 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1562578   Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: Engineered Thermal Transition Zones for Enhanced Geotechnical Foundation Systems Amount: $261,169 Additional Details:    http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1634493        Grant Recipient: Georgia State University Research Foundation, Inc. Grant Project Title: Travel Support: 12th International Symposium on Bioinformatics Research and Applications Amount: $20,000 Additional Details: http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1639612   Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: A Geometric Control Framework for Enabling Behavior-Based Planning and Locomotion of Undulatory Robots Amount: $299,867 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1562911        Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: RI: Small: Incremental Sampling-Based Algorithms and Stochastic Optimal Control on Random Graphs Amount: $335,757 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1617630        Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: AF: Small: Approximate Counting, Markov Chains and Phase Transitions Amount: $250,000 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1617306        Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: Technical Exchange Meeting on Semiconductor Platforms for Synthetic Biology and Hybrid Bioelectronic Systems, July 27-28, 2016 at Georgia Institute of Technology in Atlanta, GA Amount: $15,000 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1642181        Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: EAGER: Asynchronous Event Models for State-Topology Co-Evolution of Temporal Networks Amount: $200,000 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1639792        Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: CAREER: A Framework for Revealing How Locomotor Control Emerges from the reciprocal Interactions of Neural and Mechanical Systems Amount: $785,413 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1554790        Grant Recipient: Georgia State University Research Foundation, Inc. Grant Project Title: Picturing the Faces of Stars: Limb-darkening Models vs. Interferometer Measurements Amount: $375,956 Additional Details: http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1616483   Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: ABI Innovation: Collaborative Research: Computational Framework for Inference of Metabolic Pathway Activity from RNA-seq data Amount: $299,828 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1564559       Grant Recipient: Georgia State University Research Foundation, Inc. Grant Project Title: ABI Innovation: Collaborative Research: Computational Framework for Inference of Metabolic Pathway Activity from RNA-seq Data Amount: $300,000 Additional Details: http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1564899   Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: Symposium on Biogenic Volatile Organic Compounds (BVOC) Oxidation and Organic Aerosol Formation; Portland, Oregon; October 17-21, 2016 Amount: $10,000 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1644979        Grant Recipient: Spelman College Grant Project Title: RUI: High Resolution Coherent 3D Spectroscopy Amount: $319,451 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1608010        Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: Submanifolds and Metrics in Contact Geometry Amount: $317,582 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1608684        Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: 2-D Polymer/Plasmonic Nanostructured Arrays and their Potential Applications Amount: $150,000 Additional Details: http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1644354   Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: Assessments of the Impact of Tropospheric Aerosols on Actinic Fluxes, Photosynthetically Available Radiation (PAR), and Radiative Forcing Amount: $578,404 Additional Details: http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1637279   Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: Workshop: Future Directions in Engineering Design and Systems Engineering; Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia; January 19-21, 2017 Amount: $49,999 Additional Details: http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1647335   Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: RI: Doctoral Student Consortium at the Twenty Fourth International Conference on Case-Based Reasoning Amount: $10,000 Additional Details: http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1637547   Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: Workshop: Future Directions in Engineering Design and Systems Engineering; Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia; January 19-21, 2017 Amount: $ 49,999 Additional Details: http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1647335   Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: Collaborative Research: Approximate Computing on Real World Data Using Representation and Coding Amount: $ 383,000 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1609823   Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society Annual Conference (EMBC2016) Amount: $ 15,000 Additional Details:  http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1648833   Any questions regarding this notification should be addressed to NSF’s Office of Legislative and Public Affairs at (703) 292-8070.   National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: FY 2016 Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship - [EL] Amount: $5,500 Additional Details:  FY 2016 Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) - Engineering Laboratory (EL) - This proposal is to support 1 summer undergraduate research fellows in the areas of EL.   Grant Recipient: Georgia Tech Research Corporation Grant Project Title: GA MEP Amount: $638,065 Additional Details:  MEP recommends approval of the budget and scope of work for the three-month period from July 1, 2016 to September 30, 2016 to act as a catalyst for strengthening American manufacturing.   Any questions regarding this notification should be addressed to NIST’s General Grants Information line at (301) 975-4714. Department of Transportation (DOT) Grant Recipient: Center for Transportation and The Environment, Inc. Grant Project Title: GA-2016-004-00 Amount: $1,274,936 Additional Details:  Center for Transportation and the Environment (CTE) has partnered with Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA), New Flyer Industries, and BAE Systems to develop a Reduced Engine Idle Load (REIL) system for diesel and CNG fueled transit buses and estimate fuel efficiency improvements as if utilized in revenue service. The REIL system creates fuel economy and emission reduction benefits by eliminating the mechanical linkages between the engine and accessories and allowing periods of engine-off accessory operation.   Any questions regarding this notification should be addressed to DOT’s Office of Governmental Affairs at (202)366-4573.   U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Grant Recipient: Housing Authority of the City of Atlanta Partnering VA Medical Facility: Atlanta VA Medical Center Amount: $241,560 Additional Details: To help end veteran homelessness, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is awarding nearly $38 million to help more than 5,200 homeless veterans find a permanent place to call home. This assistance is provided through the HUD-Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH) Program which combines rental assistance from HUD with case management and clinical services provided by VA.   Grant Recipient: East Point Housing Authority Partnering VA Medical Facility: Atlanta VA Medical Center Amount: $131,040 Additional Details: To help end veteran homelessness, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is awarding nearly $38 million to help more than 5,200 homeless veterans find a permanent place to call home. This assistance is provided through the HUD-Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH) Program which combines rental assistance from HUD with case management and clinical services provided by VA.   Grant Recipient: Dekalb County Housing Authority Partnering VA Medical Facility: Atlanta VA Medical Center Amount: $82,800 Additional Details: To help end veteran homelessness, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is awarding nearly $38 million to help more than 5,200 homeless veterans find a permanent place to call home. This assistance is provided through the HUD-Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH) Program which combines rental assistance from HUD with case management and clinical services provided by VA.   Grant Recipient: Georgia Department of Community Affairs-Rental Assistance Partnering VA Medical Facility: Atlanta VA Medical Center/East Point Community-Based Outpatient Clinic Amount: $40,740 Additional Details: To help end veteran homelessness, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is awarding nearly $38 million to help more than 5,200 homeless veterans find a permanent place to call home. This assistance is provided through the HUD-Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH) Program which combines rental assistance from HUD with case management and clinical services provided by VA.   Any questions regarding this notification should be addressed to the Regional Public Affairs Office of HUD at (678) 732-2943   National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) Grant Recipient: 7 Stages Theatre Category: The Big Read Amount: $17,000 Additional Details:To revitalize the role of reading in American culture by exposing citizens to great works of literature and encouraging them to read for pleasure and enrichment. Grant Recipient: Dashboard Co-op Inc Category: Art Works Amount: $15,000 Additional Details: To support the creation and presentation of work by Atlanta-based visual artists in a city of their choosing. Dashboard will commission each artist to present a solo body of work in an underutilized property or non-traditional space in Los Angeles, St. Louis, Detroit, and San Francisco as part of the organization's Next City Shows program. Invited artists include Radcliffe Bailey, Michael Oliveri, Erik Thurmond, and the artist duo of Madeline Moore and Branden Collins.   Grant Recipient: Georgia Department of Economic Development and Georgia Council for the Arts Category: Partnerships (State & Regional) Amount: $772,500 Additional Details: To support Partnership Agreement activities. Grant Recipient: UNIMA-USA Category: Art Works Amount: $10,000 Additional Details: To support the publication of ""Puppetry International"" magazine, a resource website, and electronic communication services for the puppetry field. UNIMA-USA is the North American Center of Union Internationale de la Marionnette (UNIMA). ""Puppetry International"" magazine informs and educates the field through scholarly writings on puppetry in theater, film, and media. The organization's website and electronic communication services are home to the ""Puppetry Yellow Pages,"" a comprehensive resource guide to U.S. puppetry services and programming by puppetry centers, theaters, museums, and touring companies. Grant Recipient: Center for Puppetry Arts Category: Art Works Amount: $10,000 Additional Details: To support the production of ""The Little Pirate Mermaid."" Artistic Director Jon Ludwig will direct an adaptation and original puppetry version of the classic Hans Christian Andersen tale. The fully staged production will feature live music. Audience engagement themes may include fantasy, folk and fairy tales, the ocean, and pirates. Patrons also will be able to participate in Create-A-Puppet Workshops and tour the center's museum. The center will engage audiences by making free and discounted tickets available through its Field Trip Sponsorship Program. Grant Recipient: Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia Category: The Big Read Amount: $9,600 Additional Details: Grant Recipient: ArtsBridge Foundation, Inc. Category: Art Works Amount: $15,000 Additional Details: To support ArtsBridge's series of arts education programs. Field trips to the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre will introduce students to performances by the Atlanta Opera, the Atlanta Ballet, Kennesaw State University's College of the Arts, and others. ArtsBridge provides students with low cost or free tickets to arts events and transportation subsidies.   Any questions regarding this notification should be addressed to the Grants & Contracts division of the NEA at (202) 682-5403. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Grant Recipient: Dan Forster, Georgia Department of National Resources Grant Project Title: Operations, research, monitoring, education, training, stewardship and visitors center at Sapelo Island National Estuarine Research Reserve Amount: $619,322 Additional Details: Operations, research, monitoring, education, training, stewardship and visitors center at Sapelo Island National Estuarine Research Reserve (SINERR). The SINERR in Georgia was designated in 1976. The Reserve is administered by the Georgia Department of NaturalResources (GA DNR), Wildlife Resources Division (WRD), which is submitting thisapplication for FY 2016 federal funds to support operations, research & monitoring,education & outreach, coastal training, stewardship and visitors center activities from November 1, 2016 through April 30, 2018. Grant Recipient: Ms. Lorene Reid, Georgia Department of Natural Resources Grant Project Title: ACFCMA Planning/Implementation 2013-2018: Conduct Surveys, Administration and Education Support of the Atlantic Coastal Fisheries Cooperative Management Act Amount: $141,597 Additional Details: ACFCMA Planning/Implementation 2013-2018: Conduct surveys, administration and education support of the Atlantic Coastal Fisheries Cooperative Management Act Funds allocated to the State of Georgia by the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) in support of the Atlantic Coastal Fisheries Cooperative Management Act (ACFCMA) would be used to accomplish the following jobs: (1) Collect fishery-independent trawl data from the inshore and nearshore waters of Georgia to characterize, quantify, and monitor finfish and invertebrate populations in the lower estuarine waters; (2) Conduct fishery-independent surveys on young-of-year (YOY) and subadult/adult (yellow phase) American eels (Anguilla rostrata); (3) Collect fishery-independent data using a small trawl in the upper estuarine waters of Georgia to monitor juvenile finfish and invertebrate populations of recreational or commercial importance; (4) Provide onboard bycatch observers to increase the level of precision of finfish bycatch estimates in Georgias commercial whelk trawl and cannonball jellyfish fisheries; (5) Provide observers to characterize the bycatch in permitted experimental fisheries; (6) Provide analysis and reporting of collected data; (7) Provide administrative and educational support to meet the various requirements of the ACFCMA. Funds in this grant will be used to provide information necessary for fishery managers and those involved in the fishery management process to make informed decisions and collectively work together to better manage our various marine populations. Grant Recipient: Ms. Lorene Reid, Georgia Department of Natural Resources Grant Project Title: Georgia Commercial Fishery Statistics Collection, Processing, and Dissemination Amount: $133,947 Additional Details: Georgia Commercial Fishery Statistics Collection, Processing, and Dissemination Grant activities will consist of collecting, coding, entering, and editing monthly commercial fisheries landings and Trip Interview Program (TIP) data. Data will be transferred to NMFS weekly via the ACCSP data warehouse. We will also respond to data requests from media, academia, government agencies, and in-house users in a timely fashion.   Any questions regarding this notification should be addressed to NOAA’s Headquarters at (202) 482-6090.   Department of Education (DOE) Grant Recipient: Atlanta Metropolitan College Grant Project Title: Talent Search Program Amount: $240,000 Additional Details: The Talent Search program identifies and assists individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds who have the potential to succeed in higher education. The program provides academic, career, and financial counseling to its participants and encourages them to graduate from high school and continue on to and complete their postsecondary education. The program publicizes the availability of financial aid and assist participant with the postsecondary application process. Talent Search also encourages persons who have not completed education programs at the secondary or postsecondary level to enter or reenter and complete postsecondary education. The goal of Talent Search is to increase the number of youth from disadvantaged backgrounds who complete high school and enroll in and complete their postsecondary education.   Grant Recipient: Clark Atlanta University Grant Project Title: Talent Search Program Amount: $246, 240 Additional Details: The Talent Search program identifies and assists individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds who have the potential to succeed in higher education. The program provides academic, career, and financial counseling to its participants and encourages them to graduate from high school and continue on to and complete their postsecondary education. The program publicizes the availability of financial aid and assist participant with the postsecondary application process. Talent Search also encourages persons who have not completed education programs at the secondary or postsecondary level to enter or reenter and complete postsecondary education. The goal of Talent Search is to increase the number of youth from disadvantaged backgrounds who complete high school and enroll in and complete their postsecondary education.   Grant Recipient: Morehouse College Grant Project Title: Talent Search Program Amount: $474,240 Additional Details: The Talent Search program identifies and assists individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds who have the potential to succeed in higher education. The program provides academic, career, and financial counseling to its participants and encourages them to graduate from high school and continue on to and complete their postsecondary education. The program publicizes the availability of financial aid and assist participant with the postsecondary application process. Talent Search also encourages persons who have not completed education programs at the secondary or postsecondary level to enter or reenter and complete postsecondary education. The goal of Talent Search is to increase the number of youth from disadvantaged backgrounds who complete high school and enroll in and complete their postsecondary education.   Grant Recipient: Clark Atlanta University   Grant Project Title: Talent Search Program Amount: $360,960 Additional Details: The Talent Search program identifies and assists individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds who have the potential to succeed in higher education. The program provides academic, career, and financial counseling to its participants and encourages them to graduate from high school and continue on to and complete their postsecondary education. The program publicizes the availability of financial aid and assist participant with the postsecondary application process. Talent Search also encourages persons who have not completed education programs at the secondary or postsecondary level to enter or reenter and complete postsecondary education. The goal of Talent Search is to increase the number of youth from disadvantaged backgrounds who complete high school and enroll in and complete their postsecondary education.   Any questions regarding this notification should be addressed to the Office of Public Affairs division of the DOE at (202) 586-4940.     ####",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/middle-southwest-georgia-infrastructure-benefitted-by-almost-9-million,MIDDLE & SOUTHWEST GEORGIA INFRASTRUCTURE BENEFITTED BY ALMOST $9 MILLION IN FUNDING SECURED BY CONGRESSMAN BISHOP,2016-07-18,2016,2016-07,Democrat,House,GA,Sanford Bishop,B000490,bishop.house.gov,,,legacy,"REPURPOSED FUNDING PLACED TOWARDS ROADWAY IMPROVEMENT, RESURFACING MACON, GA ­­– Today, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02), member of the U.S. House Appropriations Committee, is proud to share that a total of $8,906,763 comprised of repurposed Federal Highway Administration funding from unused Congressional directed funding originally secured by Congressman Bishop and 20% matching funding from Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) have been redirected to infrastructure projects in Middle and Southwest Georgia. The original “earmarks” are over ten years old and were either less than 10% obligated, associated with a completed project, or are no longer active. “Our redirected funding allows GDOT to repair and rebuild very important highway projects throughout the municipalities and rural communities of Middle and Southwest Georgia,” said Congressman Bishop. “The construction will assist travelers, commuters, truckers, deliveries, and businesses get where they need to go, helping assure a productive, safe, and economically strong Georgia.” Recent federal appropriations legislation places critical restrictions on projects eligible to be recipients of the funding, including being located within a 50-mile radius of the original project and a requirement that redirected funds be obligated within three fiscal years or be forfeited. $4,367,757 will be put towards the reconstruction and widening of the I-75/I-16 interchange project, greatly improving the safety of the freeway. County and municipal resurfacing and sign upgrade projects will increase productivity and accessibility for communities across Middle and Southwest Georgia.   Bibb County - $3,004,425 ORIGINAL Project: Second Street Bridge Replacement/Reconstruct ROW in Macon Redirected Project: Construction I-16 @ I-75 Interchange; Est. Oct/Nov 2016   Bibb County - $500,738 ORIGINAL Project: Pierce Avenue bike lanes from Ingelside Ave. to Riverside Drive Redirected Project: Construction I-75 Northbound from SR 19 to I-16 Phase II; Est. Oct/Nov 2016   Bibb County - $52,642 ORIGINAL Project: Study & report of new interstate linking Augusta, Macon, Columbus, & Montgomery Redirected Project: Construction I-16 from I-75 to SR 87 & Interchange Phase I; Est. Oct/Nov 2016   Bibb County - $157,926 ORIGINAL Project: Study & report of new interstate linking Augusta, Macon, Columbus, & Montgomery Redirected Project: Construction I-16 from I-75 to SR 87 & Interchange Phase I; Est. Oct/Nov 2016   Bibb County - $652,026 ORIGINAL Project: Study & report of new interstate linking Augusta, Macon, Columbus, & Montgomery Redirected Project: Construction I-16 from I-75 to SR 87 & Interchange Phase I; Est. Oct/Nov 2016   Crawford County - $100,656 ORIGINAL Project: Revitalization Project for Roberta Walking Trail Redirected Project: Resurfacing of SR 22 from SR 7 to Columbus Rd; Est. May 2017   Crisp County - $81,259 ORIGINAL Project: US 280/SR 30 widening from Flint River to SR 300 Conn Redirected Project: Resurfacing of SR 300 from Old Coney Rd to SR 300 Conn; Est. April 2017   Crisp County - $200,295 ORIGINAL Project: Streetscape-Cordele Redirected Project: Resurfacing of SR 300 from CR 29/Old Coney Rd to SR 300 Connector; Est. April 2017   Decatur & Miller Counties - $200,295 ORIGINAL Project: Streetscape-Bainbridge Redirected Project: Resurfacing of SR 310 from Decatur County Line to SR1/US27; Est. Feb 2017   Dougherty County - $400,590 ORIGINAL Project: Streetscape-Albany Redirected Project: Resurfacing of SR300 from SR520 to N of CR243/Branch Rd; Est. Nov 2016   Dougherty County - $43,031 ORIGINAL Project: Broad Avenue Bridge, Albany, GA Redirected Project: Resurfacing of SR 91 from Baker County line to SR 62; Est. Nov 2016   Dougherty County - $81,259  ORIGINAL Project: SR 234 widening from Eight Mile Rd to Lockett Station Redirected Project: Resurfacing of SR 91 from Baker County line to SR 62; Est. Nov 2016   Dougherty County - $801,180 ORIGINAL Project: SR 133 Southbound lane bridge replacement over the GA/FL Railnet line Redirected Project: Resurfacing of SR3 from Thomas County line to Dougherty County Line; Est. Nov 2016   TERRELL COUNTY - $801,180 ORIGINAL Project: Construction on U.S. 82 from Dawson to Alabama Line Redirected Project: Resurfacing of SR 55 from Calhoun County line to SR 520/US 82; Est. July 2016   Macon County - $201,390 ORIGINAL Project: Sidewalks, light, landscaping in Montezuma Redirected Project: Resurfacing of SR49 from SR90 to SR127; Est. Nov 2016   Marion County - $300,442 ORIGINAL Project: Sidewalks in Buena Vista Redirected Project: Resurfacing of SR 355 from SR 137 to Talbot County Line; Est. March 2017   Miller County - $81,259 ORIGINAL Project: Reconstruct US 27 from Colquitt to CR 279 Redirected Project: Resurfacing of SR 45 from SR 1 to Early County line; Est. Mar 2017   Muscogee County - $1,205,540 ORIGINAL Project: Infrastructure Improvements at Statewide Military Bases Redirected Project: Sign Upgrade Project on US 80 from Alabama State Line to SR 85; Est. FY17   Muscogee County - $40,630 ORIGINAL Project: Jogging and Bike Trails around Columbus State University Redirected Project: Resurfacing of SR 85 from SR 22 Conn to SR 1; Est. Jan 2017",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://johnlewis.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-john-lewis-introduces-innovative-non-violence-legislation,Rep. John Lewis Introduces Innovative Non-violence Legislation,2016-07-18,2016,2016-07,Democrat,House,GA,John Lewis,L000287,johnlewis.house.gov,,,legacy,"In advance of Nelson Mandela International Day and in response to recent violence, Congressman Lewis introduced a revised and updated version of the Securing American Families by Educating and Training You (SAFETY) through Nonviolence Act and the Gandhi-King Scholarly Exchange Initiative Act.  These bills help provide the basis for a 21st century recommitment to the philosophy and discipline of nonviolence by helping to support and renew peace and nonviolence strategies in the United States and around the world. H.R. 5846, the SAFETY through Nonviolence Act, establishes a national initiative to teach the principles and philosophy of nonviolence to develop innovative, integrated, community-based, violence prevention training and programs. Its intention is to break the constant and seemingly increased prevalence of community-based violence and global war, by focusing policy initiatives on prevention, pathways to positive peace, and true reconciliation. H.R. 5847, the Gandhi-King Scholarly Exchange Initiative Act, institutes three international programs to promote exchanges, training, and discussions which apply the philosophies of nonviolence to current human rights, civil rights, democracy, and conflict resolution challenges. ""I have come to that point,"" Rep. John Lewis said, ""where I see non-violence as one of those immutable principles that should not be violated.  While the entire world community may not have this view, it is imperative that we continue to build our understanding of this invaluable discipline.  That way we can ensure our society has trained and capable proponents of peace working at every level of public policy, along with those who may have other views."" According to the 2016 Global Peace Index (GPI) report which notes 10-years of declining peacefulness, domestic and international peace has significant economic benefits. The 2016 GPI argues that violence cost $13.6 trillion in 2015. Today, the fiscal losses resulting from conflict greatly exceeds investments in peacebuilding and peacekeeping.   This legislation can help to shift that dynamic by yielding a 21st century, global community of scholars and practitioners of nonviolence who can continue the effort to help build the Beloved Community in our society and around the world.                                                                                                                   ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-welcomes-reduced-wait-times-at-hartsfield-jackson,CONGRESSMAN BISHOP WELCOMES REDUCED WAIT TIMES AT HARTSFIELD-JACKSON ATLANTA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT,2016-07-14,2016,2016-07,Democrat,House,GA,Sanford Bishop,B000490,bishop.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) welcomed reduced wait times for travelers at the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) in response to a bipartisan letter with 10 other members of the Georgia Congressional delegation calling on the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to deploy additional resources such as additional Transportation Security Officers (TSOs) to address the long wait passengers are experiencing at the worlds busiest airport. Long security lines cannot be allowed to adversely affect Georgias economy by dissuading people from flying through Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, said Congressman Bishop. As the summer rush continues in full force, the announcement of shorter wait times for travelers is welcome news indeed! On May 27, 2016, Congressman Bishop co-signed a letter to TSA Administrator Peter Neffenger with other Members of the Georgia Congressional Delegation requesting the deployment of at least 100 additional Transportation Security Officers at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport to counter increased passenger traffic and the resulting long wait times at security checkpoints at the airport. Congressmen Lewis (D-GA), Westmoreland (R-GA), D. Scott (D-GA), Price (R-GA), Loudermilk (R-GA), Johnson (D-GA), Carter (R-GA), Hice (R-GA), A. Scott (R-GA), and Woodall (R-GA) joined Congressman Bishop in the effort. On July 8, 2016, Congressman Bishop received a response from Administrator Neffenger stating that changes implemented at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport have resulted in significantly reduced wait times. Specifically, for June 26 July 2, 100% of non-TSA pre-check passengers waited less than 30 minutes and 100% of TSA pre-check passengers waited less than 5 minutes, all while ensuring the safety of the traveling public. To read the bipartisan letter to TSA, please click here. To read TSAs letter in response, please click here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-works-to-address-military-spouse-employment,CONGRESSMAN BISHOP WORKS TO ADDRESS MILITARY SPOUSE EMPLOYMENT,2016-07-14,2016,2016-07,Democrat,House,GA,Sanford Bishop,B000490,bishop.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. Congressman Sanford D. Bishop (GA-02), co-chair of the Congressional Military Family Caucus, joined a bipartisan group of his colleagues in sponsoring H.R. 5683, the Lift the Relocation Burden from Military Spouses Act; legislation to alleviate the undue stress, expenses, and excessive wait times professionally employed military spouses experience when their family moves for a Permanent Change of Station on military orders. The inability of military spouses to find and maintain meaningful employment not only has a direct impact on the readiness of the force, but also represents a larger societal cost absorbed primarily by the federal government, said Congressman Bishop. The Lift the Relocation Burden from Military Spouses Act will work to address license portability and boost employment for military families across our nation. The Lift the Relocation Burden from Military Spouses Act will require the Department of Defense to provide a reimbursement for licensing fees up to $500 for each Permanent Change of Station, expedite license portability, and require the Department of Defense to conduct a study to determine ways to improve the military spouse unemployment and underemployment rate. This legislation is supported by the Military Officers Association of America (MOAA), the National Military Spouse Network, and the National Military Family Association. Joyce Wessel Raezer, Executive Director of the National Military Family Association: Military spouses face many challenges that diminish the stability of their familieswith each government ordered move, military spouses incur high costs for recertification or licensure. These delays impact their ability to work and contribute to the financial well-being of their families. This bill will help off-set the cost of government ordered moves to ensure career-military spouses can seek a new licensure or certification and become employed at their new duty location right away. For more information regarding H.R. 5683, Lift the Relocation Burden from Military Spouses Act, please click here. For more information regarding the recent Joining Forces announcement regarding military licensing, please click here. Original cosponsors of this legislation include: Reps. Sanford Bishop (D-GA-02), Brad Ashford (D-NE-02), , Rob Bishop (R-UT-01), Barbara Comstock (R-VA-10), Paul Cook (R-CA-08), Carlos Curbelo (R-FL-26), Chris Gibson (R-NY-19), Walter Jones (R-NC-03), Marcy Kaptur (D-OH-09), Grace Meng (D-NY-09), Beto ORourke (D-TX-16), Martha Roby (R-AL-02), Elise Stafanik (R-NY-21), Marc Veasey (D-TX-33), and Rob Wittman (R-VA-01).",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://johnlewis.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-john-lewis-decries-republican-lack-leadership-no-action-gun-control,Rep. John Lewis Decries Republican Lack of Leadership: No Action on Gun Control,2016-07-14,2016,2016-07,Democrat,House,GA,John Lewis,L000287,johnlewis.house.gov,,,legacy,"Rep. John Lewis made this statement on the House floor to question the adjournment of the House when pressing matters of national interest still need to be worked on by Members of Congress: ""Mr. Speaker, I rise because I cannot believe it. I cannot believe that the Republican Members of Congress will leave Washington, leave the nations capital for seven and a half weeks without taking a single step to respond to the real suffering, the real pain, the real despair of the American people. ""Mr. Speaker, there is so much hurt, so much hate, so much violence. We have a moral obligation, a mission, and a mandate to do something about gun violence. Too many of our sisters and brothers have suffered. Too many have lost their lives. We have lost too many of our children, too many of our mothers and fathers, too many of our friends and neighbors. ""Where are the leaders? Do you have any courage, Republican Members of Congress? Where is the leadership? It is a shame. It is a disgrace that the Republicans would close down the Congress without doing one single thing to protect innocent little children, our mothers and fathers, our sisters and brothers, and our police officers from gun violence. ""We must act, and we should be acting now. Not tomorrow, not in September, but now!"" VIDEO Rep. John Lewis Decries Lack of Leadership and No Action on Guns",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-johnson-passes-amendment-protect-public-coal-ash,Congressman Johnson passes amendment to protect public from coal ash,2016-07-13,2016,2016-07,Democrat,House,GA,Hank Johnson,J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. An amendment to the FY 2017 Interior Appropriations bill addressing the disparate impact of coal ash disposal proposed by Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) passed by voice vote on July 12. It represented the first time this year legislation highlighted the disproportionate impact unsafe coal ash disposal poses to low-income, rural and minority communities, and the second full House of Representatives vote on the issue of coal ash in the 114th Congress. The Interior Appropriations bill will be voted on by the full House later today. The amendment will require implementation of the Environmental Protection Agencys (EPA) Disposal of Coal Combustion Residuals from Electric Utilities (Coal Ash Rule) to be consistent with Executive Order (EO) No. 12898. The EOs purpose was to focus attention on the environmental and public health effects federal actions have on minority and low-income communities, but it did not necessarily mandate agencies do so. With Rep. Johnsons amendment, the EPA and states are required to consider the impact implementation of the new coal ash rules will have on these often forgotten communities. We cannot allow communities across the country to fall between the regulatory cracks simply because they live in certain neighborhoods or have certain income levels, said Rep. Johnson. More coal ash is expected to be dumped in the state of Georgia. As we saw in Flint, we need to act at the federal level before our failure to do so results in irreversible damage to the health and environment of the communities we represent. I do not want American families, regardless of income level, to be unfairly and unreasonably exposed to toxic chemicals. As power companies shutter old, air polluting, coal-fired power plants in favor of cleaner, more sustainable ways to generate electricity, these plants leave behind a material known as coal ash. Coal ash contains known carcinogens such as arsenic, lead and mercury. Although EPA regulates the use, transfer and storage of coal ash, many communities throughout the nation are already being exposed to dangerous levels of coal ash either through coal ash ponds, power plants, or landfills that are in predominately low-income and minority communities. The problem of low-income and minority communities being disproportionately exposed to chemicals, hazardous waste, and toxic materials is not new. More than 134 million Americans, and their homes, schools, businesses, parks, and places of worship, are in harms way of a toxic chemical exposure. This is the first time a coal ash and environmental justice amendment passed the House floor this year and represents a needed step forward in addressing the dangers of coal ash in our communities. A 2014 study found that residents in vulnerable zones are disproportionately African American or Latino, have higher rates of poverty than the U.S. as a whole, and have lower housing values, incomes, and education levels than the national average. The poverty rate in these zones is 50% higher than the national average. The percentage of Blacks is 75% greater than for the U.S. as a whole, while the percentage of Latinos is 60% greater. This means almost half the people most likely to suffer from exposure are Black or Latino. But make no mistake; coal ash poisoning is not racially discriminating, said Johnson. Rural communities throughout North Georgia, North Carolina, Tennessee, and Oklahoma are suffering from exposure to coal ash dumping, leaking coal ash ponds, and coal ash transport. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/speeches/rep-johnson-praises-us-ag-lynch-her-work,Rep. Johnson praises U.S. AG Lynch,2016-07-12,2016,2016-07,Democrat,House,GA,Hank Johnson,J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Rep. Hank Johnson, Ranking Member of the Judiciary Subcommittee Regulatory Reform and Commercial Antitrust Law (RRCAL), gave the following speech during a full Judiciary hearing with U.S. Attorney General Loretta Lynch. I find it both unsurprising and absurd that we are spending our valuable time talking about Hillary Clintons email and former President Bill Clinton who I may remind you is not under investigation while our country and our cities is facing its greatest challenge in racial politics. When we look back on this decade, I am confident when I say it will be viewed as this generations 1960s Civil Rights Movement. And no, this is not about those who want guns and those who want to control them. I represent people from the great state of Georgia, so I appreciate the value of gun ownership. No, this is about a basic respect for human dignity and valuing the lives of all our citizens, not just a select few when it suits us. This is about recognizing when special interests cannot trump our right to live safely and peacefully. This is about ensuring the safety of our citizens so that they may protest peaceably and without fear from the authorities or from their fellow citizens. The fact the NRA did not comment on the death of Philando Castro and rush to his defense, despite the clear impingement on his right to legally carry a fire arm, is a chilling reminder of what they actually mean for gun owners rights for all. The fact that a family cannot hold a vigil in Baltimore to mourn their murdered loved one without being gunned down is a reminder that we need to protect the most vulnerable of our communities. The fact that we cannot peacefully gather, whether it is to protest in Dallas or to enjoy a summer night on the town in Orlando, without ducking for cover as terror is wielded at the hands of a lone gunman is a reminder that perhaps we have lost our way. We are on the cusp of a grassroots movement that is shaking the foundations of this Capitol and yet, we are wasting our time and the valuable time of the Nations leading law enforcement official to discuss emails. Unclassified emails at that. Attorney General Lynch, I thank you for taking the time to testify in front of us once again. I would like to shift the conversation away from Hillary, Bill, and the emails and move to more substantive issuessuch as whether we have found any evidence the Orlando gunman used encrypted messages to prepare for his attack?",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z