url,title,date,year,month,party,chamber,state,member_name,bioguide_id,domain,scraper,source,date_source,text,has_text,collected_at,updated_at
http://loebsack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=395212,Loebsack: Careless Actions by Republicans Lead to Needless Shutdown,2018-12-21,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,IA,Dave Loebsack,L000565,loebsack.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Dave Loebsack released the following statement today after the President and Republicans in Congress forced a needless government shutdown.It is shameful that we are even in this position. There is a noncontroversial bipartisan deal that the White House had previously agreed to and has passed the Senate and would pass the House if brought up. Republicans must put aside the gimmicks and immediately vote on the only funding bill that is guaranteed to pass. Additionally, it is irresponsible that the House has adjourned just hours before the government will shutdown without passing a funding bill. It is unacceptable that Republican leaders have caved to political games and failed to pass a funding bill to keep the government open. The number one job of Congress is to ensure our government is serving the needs of the people. There is no good reason we are in this situation.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://loebsack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=395210,Loebsack and Gianfortes Rural EMS Bill Now Law,2018-12-20,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,IA,Dave Loebsack,L000565,loebsack.house.gov,,,legacy,"President Trump today signed into law the Supporting and Improving Rural EMS Needs (SIREN) Act of 2018. Congressmen Loebsack and Gianforte's bipartisan law reauthorizes a federal grant program that helps rural communities and the EMS providers that serve them.Patients in rural areas have the same medical conditions requiring an emergency response as those in urban areas do, however many rural EMS agencies face unique challenges in delivering quality care, said Loebsack. I am pleased to have worked with Rep. Gianforte to get this bipartisan legislation signed into law to invest in our rural communities and ensure they have the tools necessary to treat patients no matter where they live. Our rural EMS providers are the first line of care for Americans in more remote areas who face a medical emergency, Gianforte said. The SIREN Act provides access to resources so that EMS providers in our rural areas have the training and equipment they need to get the job done. I appreciate working with Congressman Loebsack to get the SIREN Act signed into law.The SIREN Act creates a $10 million grant program for EMS agencies in rural areas to help address issues they face, including personnel recruitment and retention, providing continuing education and preparedness training, purchasing updated equipment, maintaining adequate coverage during prolonged transport times, and obtaining qualified medical oversight.The SIREN Act was included in the 2018 Farm Bill, which President Trump signed into law.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://loebsack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=395211,"With Signing of Farm Bill, Loebsack and Lattas Precision Ag Bill to Become Law",2018-12-20,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,IA,Dave Loebsack,L000565,loebsack.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today, the President Donald Trump signed into law the 2018 Farm Bill conference report, which contained the language from H.R. 4881, the Precision Agriculture Connectivity Act. Congressmen Loebsack and Latta have been working in a bipartisan fashion to get the bill signed into law. Earlier this year, the House passed H.R. 4881 on a standalone basis. I am proud to work with Rep. Latta to get the language of this bipartisan bill signed into law. It is important that our farmers have access to the technology necessary to assist in planting and monitoring their crops, said Loebsack. The task force established by this bill will help examine the broadband needs of farmers and rural communities to allow them to take advantage of these new technologies in order to increase crop yields. I've talked with farmers throughout Ohio's 5th Congressional District that are utilizing advanced technologies to improve farm productivity and sustainability, and it's making a big difference, said Latta. However, it's clear that the agricultural community is at a disadvantage compared to other sectors because they are in rural areas that often have limited access to high-speed Internet. It's critical that we close the Digital Divide' to ensure that the agricultural community can fully utilize this cutting-edge technology. I want to thank Congressman Loebsack for working together with me on the Precision Agriculture Connectivity Act and helping get this important legislation to the President's desk.The Precision Agriculture Connectivity Act establishes a Task Force for Reviewing the Connectivity and Technology Needs of Precision Agriculture in the United States, which will operate under the direction of the Federal Communications Committee (FCC) and in collaboration with US Department of Agriculture (USDA). The Task Force must be comprised of agricultural producers, Internet service providers, broadband mapping experts, and representatives from the satellite industry, electric cooperatives, precision agriculture equipment manufacturers, and local and state government representatives.

The duties of the Task Force include:

 Identifying and measuring current gaps in broadband coverage on agricultural land;
 Developing policy recommendations to promote the rapid, expanded deployment of broadband Internet access service on agricultural land, with a goal of achieving reliable service on 95 percent of agricultural land by 2025;
 Recommending steps the FCC should take to obtain reliable and standardized data measurements of broadband Internet access service availability as may be necessary to target funding support to unserved agricultural land in need of broadband Internet access service; and
 Recommending steps the FCC should consider to ensure that the expertise of USDA and available farm data are reflected in developing future programs of the Commission to deploy broadband Internet access service and to direct available funding to unserved agricultural land where needed.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://loebsack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=395209,"Loebsack Precision Ag Legislation, Rural EMS & Broadband Funding Included in Farm Bill",2018-12-11,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,IA,Dave Loebsack,L000565,loebsack.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Dave Loebsack released the following statement today after the final Farm Bill Conference report was made public. This legislation represents the final compromise between the House and Senate and is scheduled to be voted on later this week. 

I am pleased that the House and Senate were finally able to put aside the partisan games and produce a Farm Bill that will provide Iowa's farmers and rural communities with the certainty that they need to be able to plan for the upcoming planting season, said Loebsack. I am especially pleased that this bill provides funding to build new broadband infrastructure to help expand access in rural areas. It also protects crop insurance that provides a safety net for beginning farmers against crop failures and natural disasters such as the droughts we've seen in Iowa the last few years.

The 2018 Farm Bill contains two pieces of legislation that Loebsack has been championing, including the Precision Agriculture Connectivity Act and the SIREN Act. The Precision Agriculture Act establishes a Federal Communications Commission (FCC) task force, in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), to evaluate the best ways to meet the broadband connectivity and technological needs of precision agriculture. 
 Supporting and Improving Rural EMS Needs (SIREN) Act creates a $10 million grant program for EMS agencies in rural areas to help address issues they face, including personnel recruitment and retention, providing continuing education and preparedness training, purchasing updated equipment, maintaining adequate coverage during prolonged transport times, and obtaining qualified medical oversight

Additional highlights of the 2018 Farm Bill include:

Rural Development:
 Authorizes $350 million per year for new broadband infrastructure.
 Reauthorizes rural water and sewer infrastructure programs.Commodities:
 Allows farmers to update program yields for Agriculture Risk Coverage and Price Loss Coverage as a way to boost their eligibility for support. 

Miscellaneous: 
 The bill continues to support a strong Energy title.
 The bill supports a strong Conservation Title, including maintaining Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) and increasing Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) acreage to 27 million acres over the course of the farm bill.
 $300 million in mandatory funding for new animal pest and disease prevention and response programs, including $30 million annually for a national animal vaccine bank.
 Maintains current SNAP benefits.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://loebsack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=395208,Loebsack Statement on Veterans Continuing to Not Receive Promised GI Bill Benefits,2018-11-29,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,IA,Dave Loebsack,L000565,loebsack.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Dave Loebsack released the following statement after additional reports brought to light that the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has stated that they will not make retroactive GI Bill benefit payments to veterans who received less than they were owed, despite previous assurances that the affected veterans would be fully reimbursed. The Forever GI Bill provides educational and housing benefits to our veterans, which were earned through their service to the nation. Due to multiple information technology glitches, our veterans have lost some of their housing or educational stipends and may never get paid back, which has caused serious financial hardship for many of the affected veterans. Just a week after Iowa National Guard members were forced to pay back some of their salary after a payroll error was made by the Army, it is unacceptable that our Veterans have not yet received the proper benefits that they have earned and deserve, because of an IT issue. This is unacceptable, and Congress must work to ensure the VA has the resources necessary to remedy these technology issues and fully reimburse the affected veterans. As a military parent, I am disgusted that these men and women, who fought to protect our nation, have not been receiving the educational and housing benefits they were promised and may never get paid back. My office stands ready to assist any veteran who may be impacted by this failure at the VA.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://loebsack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=395207,Loebsack Introduces Resolution Honoring the Importance of School Psychologists,2018-11-15,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,IA,Dave Loebsack,L000565,loebsack.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Dave Loebsack recently introduced a resolution to recognize the week of November 12-16, 2018 as National School Psychology Week. H.Res.1146 honors the work of school psychologists as an integral part of the dedicated team of professionals working in our schools to ensure every student has the opportunity to achieve academic success and reach their full potential. The resolution is supported by the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP).Students learn best when they are healthy and have the support and resources they need to succeed. School psychologists work tirelessly every day in our schools to help provide students with those resources, said Loebsack. I applaud the hard work of school psychologists and am proud to help honor the critical role they play in education.School psychologists are critical members of school teams that support students' learning and mental health, says NASP Executive Director, Dr. Kathleen Minke. They help develop, deliver, and monitor effective prevention and intervention services that improve academic achievement, student wellness, and safe, supportive schools. We appreciate Congressman Loebsack's recognition of the important work of school psychologists and his sponsorship of this Congressional resolution recognizing National School Psychology Week.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://loebsack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=395206,Loebsack Statement on Veterans Not Receiving GI Bill Benefits,2018-11-13,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,IA,Dave Loebsack,L000565,loebsack.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Dave Loebsack released the following statement after reports surfaced that veterans have not been receiving their GI Bill benefits due to ongoing IT issues at the Veterans Administration (VA).I'm very disappointed in the Veterans Administration's failure to provide our veterans with the benefits they were promised. As a military parent, I am also deeply concerned about the reports of thousands of veterans who are facing homelessness because of the VA's inability to deliver housing and education payments. It is critical that the White House remedy this situation immediately. In the meantime, I encourage any veteran in Iowa to reach out and alert my office if they have been impacted by this failure at the VA.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://loebsack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=395203,Loebsack Praises New E15 Rule to Allow Year-Round Sales,2018-10-09,2018,2018-10,Democrat,House,IA,Dave Loebsack,L000565,loebsack.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Dave Loebsack released the following statement today after it was announced that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) would begin rulemaking to allow the year-round sale of gasoline mixed with 15 percent ethanol (E15). Current law does not allow E15 to be sold in the summer months. Loebsack has long worked on a bipartisan basis to broaden fuel choices for consumers. Earlier this Congress, Loebsack joined with Rep. Adrian Smith (R-NE) to introduce HR 1311, the Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act, which would have legislated this move to E15. As co-chair of the House Biofuels Caucus, Loebsack has led the fight for greater access to fuel blended with ethanol and biofuels.It is past time that E15 is made available for year-round sales. I am proud to lead the fight for year-round E15 in Congress, but I am pleased that the Administration finally took this step. Ethanol is a homegrown renewable energy source that supports millions of jobs in communities across Iowa and throughout the country, said Congressman Loebsack. This rule change will remove an unnecessary barrier and allow E15 gasoline to be sold in the summer months. Making this change will help expand consumer choice at the pump, reduce our dependence on fossil fuels and foreign oil, and stimulate economic development throughout the country.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://loebsack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=395205,Loebsack and Bustos Seek Answers from VA on Veterans Care,2018-10-09,2018,2018-10,Democrat,House,IA,Dave Loebsack,L000565,loebsack.house.gov,,,legacy,"Following a recent report from USA Today, Representatives Dave Loebsack and Cheri Bustos sought answers from the Secretary of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to ensure our veterans are receiving the highest possible quality of care. Specifically, the USA Today report showed that the VA had cancelled more than 250,000 radiology orders at VA hospitals across the country, including the Iowa City VA Hospital, since 2016. In light of this discovery, Loebsack and Bustos called on Secretary Robert Wilkie to answer a number of questions regarding the appointment cancellations and what steps the VA is taking to notify and ensure that medical care is not disrupted for any veterans who have been affected. Veterans in Iowa and across the nation deserve the best care possible from our VA hospitals. According to this report, the VA has clearly fallen short. We must get answers from the VA about how many vital appointments were cancelled and what steps they are taking to ensure this doesn't happen again. I look forward to the VA's timely response, said Congressman Loebsack. We owe our freedom to the service and sacrifice of our courageous veterans,"" said Congresswoman Bustos. When our veterans return from harm's way, they should expect top notch care from the VA. I was deeply disturbed to learn of this alleged mismanagement at the Iowa City VA and we are demanding answers.""The text of the letter is below. Click here for a copy of the signed letter.
The Honorable Robert Wilkie
Secretary 
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Washington, D.C. 20420Dear Secretary Wilkie:We are writing you today with concerns regarding the recent reporting that the VA Inspector General is auditing hospitals across the country, including the Iowa City VA Hospital, for failing to follow proper procedures when cancelling some patients' medical services. We are deeply concerned that these mass cancellations may have negatively impacted the quality of care that our veterans are entitled to receive for their years of dedicated service.In light of these concerns, we respectfully request your prompt response to the following questions:1) What is the guidance given to VA hospitals regarding scheduling practices? Do cancellations require the approval of a physician?2) What steps is the VA taking to clarify the approved cancellation protocol for VA staff to ensure compliance with this standard going forward?3) Is the VA aware of how many medical services were improperly cancelled since January 2017? Of those, how many improperly cancelled services were necessary for patients' medical care? 4) Since January 2017, how many of these improperly cancelled services happened specifically at the Iowa City VA Hospital?5) What steps is the VA taking to notify and ensure that medical care is not disrupted for patients who have been affected? We look forward to receiving your response to these questions no later than October 19, 2018. Our highest priority is ensuring that our veterans receive the highest possible quality of care, and we look forward to working with you toward this shared commitment.Sincerely,Dave Loebsack
Member of CongressCheri Bustos
Member of Congress",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://loebsack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=395202,Loebsack Again Calls Out House Republican Leaders for Closing Up and Leaving Town,2018-10-01,2018,2018-10,Democrat,House,IA,Dave Loebsack,L000565,loebsack.house.gov,,,legacy,"As the House gaveled out of session with two weeks remaining on its schedule, Congressman Dave Loebsack reiterated his call to Republican leaders to keep the House in session and working on the important issues Iowans are facing. Issues from the Farm Bill to reauthorizing the Violence Against Women Act remain to be dealt with. Today marks the 274th day of the year and the House has only been in session for a total of 94 days. Additionally, the House is only scheduled to be in session for a total of 16 more days between now and the end of this year. If Congress isn't in session and working, there is no way to accomplish the things Iowans sent me to work on. First and foremost, the House left without taking any action on the farm bill, which our rural communities and farmers rely on. It is unacceptable that Congress closed up and left town without giving our farmers the certainty they need to plan for the future. It is also beyond unacceptable that the House has only been in session for a total of 94 days this year and is only scheduled to be in session for a total of 16 days through the end of the year. The people of Iowa want Congress working on issues that affect their lives and being in session for only one third of the time is no way to get anything accomplished. Congress cannot afford to continuously close up shop, leaving behind a list of issues to deal with. While I look forward to spending this time back in Iowa traveling across the state, Iowans deserve better. I stand ready to work with anyone to help move our state and nation forward.Among the issues that have not been dealt with include: Farm bill,
 Reauthorize Violence Against Women Act
 Annual appropriations, 
 Combating the Opioid Epidemic,
 Long-term infrastructure/highway bill, 
 Increase RFS volume outputs, 
 Prison sentencing reform, 
 Comprehensive jobs package, 
 Comprehensive mental health reform,
 Higher Education reauthorization,
 Campaign finance reform.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://loebsack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=395201,Loebsack Reintroduces Legislation to Provide Support for Rural Schools,2018-09-06,2018,2018-09,Democrat,House,IA,Dave Loebsack,L000565,loebsack.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Dave Loebsack recently reintroduced legislation that would provide greater support to rural communities to ensure that students attending rural schools have access to the same resources as their urban counterparts. Currently, rural schools have fewer financial resources than non-rural schools, which has created challenges to teacher recruitment and retention, and resulted in a lack of quality expanded learning time programs for students. Loebsack's Restructuring Underutilized Resources for Advancing Learning (RURAL) Act contains three key components that will help recruit and retain teachers by creating a tax incentive for teachers and school leaders in high poverty or rural areas, highlight the importance of rural education by establishing an Office of Rural Education Policy within the Department of Education, and improve and increase access to expanded learning time programs in rural areas.In 2015, a portion of this bill that expanded digital learning opportunities in rural areas was included in the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), which was signed into law by then-President Obama. Across the nation, one fourth of all public school students live in rural areas with a quarter of these students living in poverty. At the same time, rural schools have fewer financial resources than their urban counterparts. As a result, rural schools have unique barriers to overcome. They often struggle to recruit and retain quality teachers, provide access to high quality digital learning, and provide after school programs, said Loebsack. As Co-Chair of the House Rural Education Caucus, I believe it is time for Congress to start providing additional resources and support to ensure that students attending school in rural communities are not forgotten.Specifically, the RURAL Act is comprised of three key policy components that will increase the educational capacity of students attending rural schools: Provide a tax incentive for National Board certified teachers, individuals teaching in rural or high poverty areas and school leaders in high poverty or rural areas
- $1,000 tax credit for an individual teaching in a school where at least 75% of the students receive free or reduced lunch or for an individual teaching in school with a locale code of 32, 33, 41, 42 or 43. Teachers that are certified by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards will receive an additional $1,000 credit for a total of $2,000. 
- $1,000 tax credit for a principal, assistant principal, superintendent or other administrator in a school with a locale code of 32, 33, 41, 42 or 43Establish an Office of Rural Education Policy within the Department of Education
- The Office of Rural Education Policy shall be headed by a Director that will advise the Secretary of Education on the characteristics and needs of rural schools when proposing and implementing policies
- The Director would also maintain a clearinghouse for disseminating information on innovative approaches to rural education as well as identifying alarming trends in rural school districtsImprove and increase expanded learning time programs in rural areas
- Would establish a competitive grant program for local educational agencies (LEAs), community-based organizations and other eligible entities to establish and improve expanded learning time programs, including after-school programs",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://loebsack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=395200,"After 4 Months, EPA Fails to Fully Respond to Loebsack Questions on RFS Hardship Waiver",2018-08-30,2018,2018-08,Democrat,House,IA,Dave Loebsack,L000565,loebsack.house.gov,,,legacy,"After four months, Congressman Dave Loebsack finally received a response from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to the specific questions he had asked regarding the agency's use of the small refinery exemption program. In April, then EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt testified in front of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, which Loebsack serves on, about the small refinery exemption, also known as a hardship' waiver. During his testimony, Pruitt was unable to answer many of the questions posed to him at the time. After the hearing, Loebsack submitted detailed questions for the EPA to provide answers.In a recently received letter, four months after the hearing, the EPA again failed to fully answer many of the questions that Loebsack had submitted. The full request Loebsack submitted to the EPA in April for additional information is below.It is disappointing that the EPA took four months to respond to inquiries regarding the demand destruction done by small refinery exemptions. In fact, many of the questions I submitted still remain unanswered, said Loebsack. These giveaways, so called hardship waivers, need to stop before more irreparable harm is done to our farmers and rural communities across the country.Congressman Dave Loebsack Questions for the Record for Administrator PruittAdministrator Pruitt, as I indicated to you at the hearing, I have a lot of concerns about the way in which the small refinery exemptions within the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) program have been handled by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). There needs to be much more transparency and public accountability in the with respect to the small refinery waiver exemptions. Please provide responses to the following questions regarding small refinery exemptions within the RFS. 1. What is the total number of refinery waiver applications that EPA received in each year from 2013 through 2017?
2. For each year from 2013 through 2017, how many waivers did the EPA grant?
3. What companies have received waivers for each year from 2013 through 2017? 
4. What is the total volume of biofuel obligation represented by the waivers granted for each year 2013 through 2017?
5. What is the EPA process for confirming that each applicant falls beneath the 75,000-barrell throughput capacity?
6. Please confirm how the gallons waived under the small refinery exemption process are handled. Are the gallons reassigned to remaining obligated parties for blending? Are they reassigned within the same compliance year? If they are not reassigned to the remaining obligated parties, what is the disposition of those gallons relative to the overall renewable volume obligation set in the annual rule? 
7. Did you inform President Trump or White House staff of the unusually large number of small refinery exemptions EPA was granting and of the potential effects on the renewable fuel market of exempting additional gallons and facilities and the fact that these actions would not be well received by the agricultural community?
8. EPA claimed recently that the Agency did not change the criteria for granting exemptions from those used in past years. Yet, numerous press reports indicate the Agency has granted almost double the amount of waivers than have been granted in past years. What is your explanation for the Agency's granting of an unusually high number of waivers under this program as compared to past years? If the Agency is applying different criteria, please provide a an explanation of the changes and the justification for initiating the new criteria.
9. Did EPA consult with the Department of Energy on each of the applications for a small refinery exemption for 2016 and 2017? For how many of the applications reviewed by DOE for these two compliance years did EPA disagree with DOE's recommendation to grant or deny the exemption?",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://loebsack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=395196,"Loebsack, Stivers Bill to Help Homeless Youth Passes Financial Services Committee",2018-07-24,2018,2018-07,Democrat,House,IA,Dave Loebsack,L000565,loebsack.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today, H.R. 1511, the Homeless Children and Youth Act (HCYA), a bipartisan bill sponsored by Representatives Dave Loebsack (D-IA) and Steve Stivers (R-OH), passed the Financial Services Committee. The HCYA would help bring the invisible homelesssuch as vulnerable children couch surfing at the generosity of strangers or living in motelsout of the shadows and give communities more flexibility so they can address the growing problem of homelessness among children. This bill received a hearing in the Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance earlier this month. As someone raised in poverty by a single mother who struggled with mental illness, I know firsthand how community supports can help make a difference in people's lives. We must take every step possible to help children in need excel. I am pleased this bill is moving forward and taking the next step to make it easier for homeless children to access homeless assistance programs. The Homeless Children and Youth Act will help communities best provide for those who are most in need, said Loebsack.No child should ever be without a home, let alone be forced to navigate bureaucratic red tape just to prove that they are actually homeless, Stivers said. This bill is an important step in accurately identifying the scope of youth homelessness so we can help some of the most vulnerable in our communities. I want to thank the Chairman and committee members for supporting this legislation, and hope it is considered by the full House soon.Spanning multiple Administrations, the HUD definition of homeless has been inconsistent with other federal agencies. The HCYA would expand HUD's definition of homeless to include all children and youth who are already verified as homeless by several other federal educational and social services programs. The Senate companion bill is sponsored by Senators Rob Portman (R-OH) and Diane Feinstein (D-CA). To read the full text of the bill, click here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://loebsack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=395194,"U.S. House Passes Loebsack, Latta Legislation to Reduce Barriers for Precision Agriculture Implementation",2018-07-23,2018,2018-07,Democrat,House,IA,Dave Loebsack,L000565,loebsack.house.gov,,,legacy,"U.S. House Passes Loebsack, Latta Legislation to Reduce Barriers for Precision Agriculture Implementation
  
    
      
      
  
    
      f 
      t 
      #
      e
      
      
    
    
      
        Washington,
        July 23, 2018 | 
      Joe Hand
      (202-225-6576) 
    
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
    
      
      
      The U.S. House of Representatives has passed H.R. 4881, the Precision Agriculture Connectivity Act, to reduce barriers to the implementation of cutting-edge technology on America's farms. The legislation, authored by Congressmen Dave Loebsack (D-IA) and Bob Latta (R-OH), establishes a Federal Communications Commission (FCC) task force, in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), to evaluate the best ways to meet the broadband connectivity and technological needs of precision agriculture. Loebsack and Latta are both co-chairs of the House Rural Broadband Caucus.
 
Precision agriculture is the use of technology like the Internet of Things (IoT), self-driving machinery, drones, and satellites to operate farms in a more effective and efficient manner. Because rural communities often have less access to high-speed broadband connectivity, the agricultural community has more difficulty integrating advanced technologies that could make their work easier, safer, and better for the environment.

As I travel across Iowa meeting with farmers, I am continuously impressed with the advanced technology they are using to assist in planting and monitoring their crops, said Loebsack. I am pleased the U.S. House passed the Precision Agriculture Connectivity Act, which will establish a task force to examine the broadband needs of farmers and rural communities so they can take advantage of these new technologies in order to increase crop yields. I am pleased to work with Rep. Latta on this legislation, which passed the House by a large bipartisan vote, to help ensure our nation's farmers have the best information available on meeting their broadband needs.Precision agriculture provides farmers with the ability to improve productivity and sustainability, said Latta. Unfortunately, many rural areas lack high-speed broadband which is needed to utilize this cutting-edge technology. By having the FCC, USDA, and private stakeholders work together, we can reduce barriers to the implementation of innovation like self-driving equipment, the Internet of Things, and satellite imagery. I want to thank Congressman Loebsack for working with me on this important piece of legislation for our agricultural community.

The bill establishes the Task Force for Reviewing the Connectivity and Technology Needs of Precision Agriculture in the United States, which will operate under the direction of the FCC and in collaboration with USDA. The Task Force must be comprised of farmers and ranchers, Internet service providers, broadband mapping experts, and representatives from the satellite industry, electric cooperatives, precision agriculture equipment manufacturers, and local and state government representatives.

The duties of the Task Force include:

- Identifying and measuring current gaps in broadband coverage on agricultural land;
- Developing policy recommendations to promote the rapid, expanded deployment of broadband Internet access service on agricultural land, with a goal of achieving reliable service on 95 percent of agricultural land by 2025;
- Recommending steps the FCC should take to obtain reliable and standardized measurements of broadband Internet access service availability as may be necessary to target funding support to unserved agricultural land in need of broadband Internet access service; and
- Recommending steps the FCC should consider to ensure that the expertise of USDA and available farm data are reflected in developing future programs of the Commission to deploy broadband Internet access service and to direct available funding to unserved agricultural land where needed.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://loebsack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=395193,Loebsack Statement on Trumps Meeting With Putin,2018-07-16,2018,2018-07,Democrat,House,IA,Dave Loebsack,L000565,loebsack.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Dave Loebsack released the following statement today on President Trump's meeting and press conference with Russian President Vladimir Putin.President Trump is flat out wrong to blame the United States and take the word of a foreign adversary over the findings of his own intelligence experts and the House Intelligence Committee. Iowans understand that Putin is a tyrant and it is now more critical than ever that both parties in Congress work together to protect our election systems, democratic process and national security interests both at home and abroad.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://loebsack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=395192,Loebsack Calls for Canadas Permanent Exemption from Tariffs to Protect Iowa Workers,2018-06-22,2018,2018-06,Democrat,House,IA,Dave Loebsack,L000565,loebsack.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Dave Loebsack today called on U.S. Trade Representative, Ambassador Robert Lighthizer, to support the tens of thousands of Iowans who rely on a healthy trading relationship with Canada by exempting Canada from the tariffs that began on June 1st. In retaliation, Canada has indicated that it would levy tariffs worth $12.8 billion on goods including Iowa produced agricultural and manufactured products. Canada is Iowa's largest trading partner and in 2017 alone, Iowa sent over $4 billion worth of products to Canada, which accounts for over 30% of Iowa's international trade, and $1.4 billion of that trade with Canada comes from Iowa's agricultural products. In his letter, Loebsack encouraged Ambassador Lighthizer to recommend a permanent exemption from this tariff action for Canada. A copy of the letter can be found here.Iowa's longstanding trading partnership with Canada has led to the creation and support of hundreds of thousands of jobs across the state. These tit for tat trade actions between the U.S. and Canada put Iowans at risk and could have massive economic impacts in my home state, Loebsack wrote to Ambassador Lighthizer. The uncertainty that these trade actions create in the economy is enormously problematic for Iowa's economy. That is why I encourage you to recommend a permanent exemption from this tariff action for Canada, and I encourage this administration toward a stronger trading partnership with Canada that benefits Iowa workers.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://loebsack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=395190,Lawmakers Demand Answers from EPA on Failed Implementation of Renewable Fuel Standard,2018-06-20,2018,2018-06,Democrat,House,IA,Dave Loebsack,L000565,loebsack.house.gov,,,legacy,"Democratic members of the House Energy and Commerce Committee and the House Committee on Agriculture today called on the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to provide additional information regarding their failed implementation of the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS). In a letter led by Congressman Dave Loebsack and Congresswoman Cheri Bustos, the members laid out a series of questions seeking information about the mismanagement of a program that provided waivers to some of our nation's largest, most profitable refiners, but were intended to help support small refiners with demonstrated economic hardship and were in danger of going bankrupt. The group of 12 lawmakers is also seeking information about the EPA's retroactive awarding of Renewable Identification Numbers (RINS), which undermine the biofuels market. The lawmakers have made repeated requests for this information, which the EPA has refused to answer. A copy of the letter can be found here. We write to convey our grave concerns and request additional information regarding your failed implementation of the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) program. We are deeply troubled by the lack of transparency and continued manipulation of the RFS program through your misuse of the small refinery exemption process, the lawmakers wrote in a letter to EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) continues to hurt farmers and undermine the biofuels market by extending waivers to an unusually large number of refineries. Additionally, your implementation of the RFS program is undercutting the market for renewable fuels, and inflicting further economic pain in rural communities and throughout the agriculture sector.We remain extremely concerned about your implementation of the RFS program and its effects on rural communities. Your actions are clearly designed to enrich the oil industry at the expense of farmers and the renewable fuels industry by undermining the RFS program. We request that you suspend the small refinery exemption process until you provide Congress with information to evaluate this program, the lawmakers concluded.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://loebsack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=395181,Loebsack Introduces Bill to Develop High-Definition Mapping for Self-Driving Cars,2018-06-08,2018,2018-06,Democrat,House,IA,Dave Loebsack,L000565,loebsack.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Dave Loebsack, a member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, today introduced legislation to develop high-definition road mapping in order to further the safe deployment of highly automated vehicles, or self-driving cars. Loebsack's legislation, the 21st Century Automated Vehicle Safety Act of 2018, creates a competitive grant program to establish a high-definition road mapping pilot program that will be used to further the development and deployment self-driving cars. Loebsack worked in conjunction with researchers at the National Advanced Driving Simulator (NADS) located at the University of Iowa to develop this legislation. Click here to view the full text of the bill. In order to continue moving towards the development and safe deployment of self-driving cars, we need to have the best information possible available. By establishing this program, the high-definition mapping will help determine the challenges, barriers, and other considerations that must be taken into account when planning for the safe operation of self-driving cars. I look forward to seeing what the future of self-driving cars is like and this legislation will help ensure that its deployment is safe and responsible, said Congressman Dave Loebsack.Digital infrastructure and high-definition map data is essential to improving the safety of automated vehicles and drivers in cities and rural communities. The pilot programs established by the 21st Century Automated Vehicle Safety Act will help move us forward in a safe and responsible manner as these vehicles are integrated onto American roadways, said Dr. Daniel McGehee, Director of the National Advanced Driving Simulator Laboratories.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://loebsack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=395174,Loebsack Praises FCCs Action to Increase Funding for the Rural Health Care Program,2018-06-07,2018,2018-06,Democrat,House,IA,Dave Loebsack,L000565,loebsack.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Dave Loebsack released the following statement today after the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) voted to raise the cap on the Universal Service Fund's Rural Health Care Program by $171 million. This new investment brings the cap for this fund to $571 million, which helps provide access to high speed internet for rural health care providers. In 2016, Loebsack worked to get legislation signed into law that made skilled nursing facilities eligible to receive funds through this program. I am pleased that the FCC voted to raise the amount of funding available through the Rural Health Care Program, which has not seen an increase since 1997. It is essential that all the different components of the USF are fully supported, and ensuring rural healthcare providers and their facilities have access to broadband internet is necessary for both patients and doctors. The demand has exceeded the amount of funding available through the Rural Health Care Program and this increase will allow more providers in our rural communities to have access to broadband to better treat patients.Background on Loebsack's Rural Health Care Connectivity Act
Skilled nursing facilities are an integral part of the healthcare system, particularly in rural areas. Access to broadband at reasonable rates helps them give high quality care to their patients. Many skilled nursing facilities are increasingly dependent on access to broadband, especially if they have little access to hospitals nearby. While many other rural healthcare providers have access to Rural Health Care Program funds, skilled nursing facilities did not. Allowing these facilitates to participate in the Rural Health Care program helps these facilities develop new and innovative technologies and practices, such as tele-health and telemedicine.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://loebsack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=395172,Loebsack Praises $50 Million Federal Investment in I-80/I-380 Interchange Redesign,2018-06-05,2018,2018-06,Democrat,House,IA,Dave Loebsack,L000565,loebsack.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Dave Loebsack released the following statement today after the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) announced that the Iowa Department of Transportation will receive a $50 million grant through its Infrastructure For Rebuilding America (INFRA) program. The funding will be used to implement a comprehensive redesign of the I-80/I-380 interchange. This is the first installment of the approximately $350 million construction project. Loebsack has long fought to secure the funds necessary for the badly needed redesign.I am very pleased that the U.S. Department of Transportation has begun dispersing the funding needed to begin the redesign of the interchange at I-80 and I-380. The 90,000 drivers who use this interchange every day know just how dangerous and in need of repairs it is. This project will not only make travel easier, but will spur many jobs in the design and construction of the interchange. I am pleased to support the project and I am excited to see the final results that will make the interstate safer and the valuable local jobs that will be created.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://loebsack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=395173,Loebsack Calls on House Republican Leaders to Follow the Senate and Cancel August Recess,2018-06-05,2018,2018-06,Democrat,House,IA,Dave Loebsack,L000565,loebsack.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Dave Loebsack released the following statement calling on House Speaker Paul Ryan and Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy to follow the lead of their Senate counterparts and cancel the planned August recess. Today marks the 156th day of the year and the House has only been in session for a total of 56 days.It is beyond unacceptable that the House has only been in session for 56 days so far this year. The people of Iowa sent me here to work on issues that affect their lives and only being in session for one-third of the time is no way to get anything accomplished, said Loebsack. Today, I am calling on House Republican leaders to follow the lead of the Senate and cancel the planned August recess. We cannot afford to close up shop for over five weeks this summer, leaving behind a seemingly endless list of issues to deal with. Iowans deserve better and I stand ready to work with anyone to help move our state and nation forward. Among the issues that have not been dealt with include: Farm bill,
 Combating the Opioid Epidemic,
 Long-term infrastructure/highway bill, 
 Increase RFS volume outputs, 
 Annual appropriations, 
 Prison sentencing reform, 
 Comprehensive jobs package, 
 Comprehensive mental health reform,
 Higher Education reauthorization,
 Campaign finance reform.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://loebsack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=395167,Loebsack Statement on House Republicans Failure to Push Through Partisan Farm Bill,2018-05-18,2018,2018-05,Democrat,House,IA,Dave Loebsack,L000565,loebsack.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Dave Loebsack released the following statement today after House Republicans failed to push their partisan farm bill through the House. This legislation fails to address falling farm income, eliminates the energy title, which includes the popular Rural Energy for America Program (REAP), eliminates the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP), and eliminates important crop insurance and risk management education efforts. Additionally, the bill cuts billions of dollars in food assistance for millions of children, seniors and veterans. House Republicans today showed they care more about being partisan than passing a farm bill to support Iowa's farmers and rural communities. In what has historically been done in a bipartisan manner with a rural-urban coalition, this farm bill has devolved into a partisan food fight. This bill did not go far enough, nor make the necessary investments in providing our farmers and rural communities in Iowa with the tools they need. Farmers are facing some of the lowest farm incomes in years and this partisan farm bill does little to provide economic benefit or market certainty in rural communities. While there are many things in this bill that I support, I was unable to support it today because this bill is too extreme. For example, the elimination of the Energy title goes against our rural priorities. This title supports many renewable energy and energy efficiency investments made by our farmers and small businesses, such as REAP. This initiative has always been incredibly popular and has more people interested in it than funding available. I am also disappointed that this bill does not raise reference prices at a time when farm incomes are falling. Increased reference prices would go a long way toward providing greater assistance to farmers in times of low prices. Additionally, this bill cuts $800 million from conservation programs that help farmers care for the land and soil. On top of that, this farm bill eliminates important crop insurance and risk management education efforts that protect farmers in times of an emergency.I feel as though this whole process was truly a missed opportunity to support rural Iowa while making investments that put farmers first. It is time to go back to the Ag Committee and craft a bipartisan bill that can actually pass both chambers and be signed into law. But most importantly, we have to have a farm bill that puts farmers first.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://loebsack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=395164,Loebsack and Bustos Amendment to Establish a Center of Excellence for Advanced and Additive Manufacturing included in National Defense Authorization Bill,2018-05-10,2018,2018-05,Democrat,House,IA,Dave Loebsack,L000565,loebsack.house.gov,,,legacy,"Late last night, the House Armed Services Committee completed its markup of the 2019 National Defense Authorization. During this process, an amendment led by Congressman Dave Loebsack and Congresswoman Cheri Bustos was inserted into the bill to create a Center of Excellence for Advanced and Additive Manufacturing. Once established, this Center will support the Armys ongoing efforts to integrate advanced manufacturing techniques into the processes at its arsenals and other industrial facilities. The Loebsack-Bustos Amendment also gives the Army the authority to use this Center to engage in new partnerships with the private sector, local universities and community colleges to identify ways to support advanced and additive manufacturing within the Army. It would also require the development of cyber protections for Armys advanced manufacturing methods. Once these provisions become law, they will help position Army arsenals to be at the forefront of developing new advanced manufacturing techniques, 3D printing and the technologies of tomorrow to better serve our troops. Coming on the heels of a recently announced $30 million investment in the Joint Manufacturing Technology Center at the Rock Island Arsenal, this Amendment helps position the Quad-Cities to be the focal point in this work.The Rock Island Arsenal not only supports the brave men and women of our Armed Forces, but is also a critical piece of the Quad Cities economy. The amendment will help ensure the Arsenal has the tools and resources it needs to remain competitive, Congressman Loebsack said. The Arsenals workload is vital to the local economy and work must continue to secure and strengthen its future. I am proud to have partnered with Congresswoman Bustos to move this amendment forward. It will play a critical role in equipping our troops and spurring future economic development in the Quad Cities region. As always, I will continue my efforts to advocate for the Arsenal and its workforce.The Rock Island Arsenal isnt just a vital part of our national security strategy, its also the engine that drives our local economy, said Congresswoman Cheri Bustos. When our brave men and women put on the uniform and put their lives on the line, we are proud to help provide the best equipment possible to help them get the job done. The hardworking men and women of the Rock Island Arsenal are leading the way in developing 21st century manufacturing techniques that make our Army the strongest in the world. Congressman Loebsack and I are proud to be working across state lines to help them succeed.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://loebsack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=395163,Loebsack Announces Winner of 2018 Congressional Art Contest Peoples Choice Award,2018-05-08,2018,2018-05,Democrat,House,IA,Dave Loebsack,L000565,loebsack.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Dave Loebsack announced today that a painting entitled A Soldiers Haunting by Keokuk High Schools Kaylee Adams was selected to represent Iowas Second Congressional District in the 2018 Congressional Art Contest. The painting is from a photo that Kaylee's uncle took of himself while serving in Iraq. After returning home, he suffered from PTSD and took his own life. Kaylee made the painting for her father to honor her uncle.Each year I am more and more impressed by the creativity, ingenuity, and talent of our local high school students. I send my congratulations to all of the young artists whose wonderful submissions made it a very close contest this year. I especially want to congratulate Kaylee and look forward to seeing her artwork displayed in the U.S. Capitol, said Loebsack.The Peoples Choice Award winner was selected in an online competition in which 1266 votes were cast. A Soldiers Haunting will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol for one year. The first runner-up was Griffen at the Campsite by Kate Goodvin from Iowa City High School and the second runner-up was Barbed Sunset by Cameron White from Davenport West High School. Winner:
Kaylee Adams, Keokuk High School
A Soldiers HauntingFirst Runner-up:
Kate Goodvin, Iowa City High School
Griffen at the CampsiteSecond Runner-up:
Cameron White, Davenport West High School
Barbed Sunset",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://loebsack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=395159,VIDEO: Loebsack Questions EPA Administrator Pruitts Commitment to RFS,2018-04-26,2018,2018-04,Democrat,House,IA,Dave Loebsack,L000565,loebsack.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Dave Loebsack questioned Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Scott Pruitt today at an Energy and Commerce Committee hearing about reports that he has granted hardship waivers to numerous oil refiners, including one that made $1.5 billion in profits last year, when they are typically used to support small refiners that are facing economic hardship and are in danger of closing. At the hearing Loebsack pressed Pruitt to be transparent, fully accountable and to release all of the information on how many waivers have been granted and to whom they were granted. Additionally, under current law, any gallons that are waived are required to be obligated to other parties. Due to the lack of transparency, Pruitt was not able to state on the record whether these gallons have been properly reassigned as required by law. Today, Loebsack also joined with his fellow co-chairs of the House Biofuels Caucus calling on Pruitt to cease all hardship waivers under the RFS until they are able to verify that the waivers will only be used for small refineries.Video of Loebsacks questions can be found here. Throughout Administrator Pruitts confirmation process, he stated that he would work to uphold the RFS. Additionally, President Trump has pledged to support the RFS time and time again. However, over the past several weeks new information has come out that makes me question this administrations commitment. Various reports have indicated that the EPA has granted economic hardship exemptions to numerous refiners who are appear to be neither small nor financially distressed.Ive heard directly from Iowans and farmers across the country who are extremely troubled by the EPAs actions. This comes at a particularly troubling time as farm income is trending downwards and refining industry profits are soaring. I am extremely disappointed that the EPA issued these waivers as well as the unacceptable lack of transparency and accountability in this process. The granting of hardship waivers must cease until it has been verified that they are being used in a lawful manner.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://loebsack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=395156,Loebsack Announces Start of Online Voting for 2018 Congressional Art Contest,2018-04-23,2018,2018-04,Democrat,House,IA,Dave Loebsack,L000565,loebsack.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Dave Loebsack announced today that online voting to select the 2018 Peoples Choice Award winner to represent Iowas Second Congressional District in the Congressional Art Contest has now begun. The artwork that receives the most votes will be named this years winner and will be displayed in the tunnel leading to the U.S. Capitol for one year. The winning student and one parent or guardian will also each receive a free flight to Washington, D.C. to attend a reception held in their honor (all other expenses must be covered by the winner). This year, Loebsacks office received nearly 40 entries. Once again this year, to open the process to as many Iowans as possible, the winner will be chosen by the public. Voting opened TODAY, Monday April 23rd and will close on Friday, April 27th at 5:00pm CDT. The winner will be notified and announced shortly after. To vote, visit: https://loebsack.house.gov/artcontest2018, scroll through the entries and select from the list at the bottom.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://loebsack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=395115,Loebsack Statement on Granting of E15 Waiver,2018-04-12,2018,2018-04,Democrat,House,IA,Dave Loebsack,L000565,loebsack.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Dave Loebsack released a statement today following reports that President Trump has endorsed allowing year-round sales of fuel composed of 15 percent ethanol, instead of the 10 percent that is currently blended in the supply. Loebsack has long worked on a bipartisan basis to broaden fuel choices for consumers. Earlier this Congress, Loebsack joined with Rep. Adrian Smith (R-NE) to introduce HR 1311, the Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act, which would have legislated this move to E15. As co-chair of the House Biofuels Caucus, Loebsack has led the fight for greater access to fuel blended with ethanol and biofuels.If reports are true, this action will remove an unnecessary barrier and allow E15 gasoline to be sold year-round. By taking these steps, it will help expand consumer choice at the pump, reduce our dependence on fossil fuels and foreign oil, and stimulate economic development throughout rural communities. Todays actions should have been taken years ago, but I am pleased that consumers now have access to greater choices at the pump.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://loebsack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=395114,Loebsack Brings the Questions of Iowans Directly to Mark Zuckerberg,2018-04-11,2018,2018-04,Democrat,House,IA,Dave Loebsack,L000565,loebsack.house.gov,,,legacy,"During todays House Energy and Commerce Committee hearing, Facebook: Transparency and Use of Consumer Data, Congressman Dave Loebsack took the questions that Iowans told him they wanted answers to directly to Facebooks Founder and CEO, Mark Zuckerberg. Last week, Loebsack asked Iowans to submit the questions they would ask Mr. Zuckerberg. As a result, hundreds of questions were submitted and during the hearing, Loebsack was able to get answers to the question Iowans were interested in. A video of Loebsacks questions can be found here.I am honored to be able to bring the questions that Iowans told me they wanted answers to directly to the source. One of the main themes throughout the questions that were submitted concern the loss of trust. People want to know that they can trust Facebook and that they will actually do what it says they are doing when taking actions to protect the consumers data and privacy. While Facebook has moved to provide greater privacy and protection of data, there are still steps that must be taken. I look forward to working with my colleagues as we move forward and discuss ways to reassure the American people that their privacy and personal data is secure.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://loebsack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=395113,Loebsack Authored Amendment Brings $3.6 Million to Iowa to Update Buses and Bus Facilities,2018-04-02,2018,2018-04,Democrat,House,IA,Dave Loebsack,L000565,loebsack.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Dave Loebsack announced today that the Iowa Department of Transportation will receive $3,600,000 from the U.S. Department of Transportation to purchase buses to be used across the state. Loebsack authored an amendment to expand the Bus and Bus Facilities Competitive Grant Program as part of the Highway bill (The FAST Act), which became law in 2015. Specifically, funding through this competitive program is used to replace buses that operate in rural areas and have reached the end of their useful life. Iowa received more than $4 million from this program in 2016.For folks living in rural areas, having access to reliable transportation to connect with more urban communities is essential for growth across our state, said Loebsack. Bus fleets across the state are falling into disrepair and it is imperative that we continue to work to bring our transportation infrastructure into the 21st Century. I am pleased to have authored this amendment to ensure Iowans get their fair share of funding.As part of the FAST Act, Loebsacks amendment created a nationwide $1.5 billion grant program to update aging buses and bus facilities. The Bus and Bus Facilities Competitive Grant Program gives all 50 states the ability to compete for limited bus funding based on the merits of the project, not just geographic location.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://loebsack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=395112,Loebsacks Rural Wireless Access Act Signed into Law,2018-03-26,2018,2018-03,Democrat,House,IA,Dave Loebsack,L000565,loebsack.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Dave Loebsack released the following statement today after his legislation, the Rural Wireless Access Act, was signed into law by President Trump. This bipartisan bill was incorporated in the FY2018 Omnibus Appropriations Act, which was passed by both the House and Senate and signed into law last week. CLICK HERE for video of Loebsack speaking about his legislation before it passed the House.Folks living in rural areas know just how bad wireless voice and mobile internet services can be. Unfortunately, the maps that the FCC currently uses are incomplete and tell a different story than what Iowans know is actually happening. I am pleased my legislation will help get resources where they are most needed, including rural communities. Currently, the standards that define how wireless coverage is determined are not sufficient, meaning that coverage maps can be incomplete or inaccurate. Without accurate coverage maps, resources needed to improve wireless access will not be directed to the areas that need the most help, including rural areas. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) will now develop new maps to ensure resources to improve wireless voice and mobile Internet services go to the areas that need it the most.A significant digital divide remains between urban and rural America. Congressman Loebsack is a leader in working to close this divide by promoting broadband deployment throughout rural America. Loebsack serves on the Communications and Technology subcommittee of the Energy and Commerce Committee, which has jurisdiction over telecommunications issues. He also serves as a co-chair of the Rural Broadband Caucus.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://loebsack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=395111,Loebsack Rural Wireless Access Act Passes House,2018-03-06,2018,2018-03,Democrat,House,IA,Dave Loebsack,L000565,loebsack.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Dave Loebsack released the following statement today after the House passed his legislation, the Rural Wireless Access Act. This bipartisan bill was incorporated into the larger Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Reauthorization Act, which passed the House unanimously, by a voice vote. Currently, the standards that define how wireless coverage is determined are not sufficient, meaning that coverage maps can be incomplete or inaccurate. Without accurate coverage maps, resources needed to improve wireless access will not be directed to the areas that need the most help, including rural areas. Loebsacks legislation will help make sure maps are accurate so that resources to improve wireless voice and mobile Internet services go to the areas that need it the most.CLICK HERE for video of Loebsack speaking on the House floor about his bill.Everyone at some point has been driving through places in rural America that dont get wireless coverage. Unfortunately, the maps that the FCC uses to try fix coverage gaps are often inadequate, said Loebsack. We cannot invest in wireless access without first understanding the problem. That is why I am pleased my bill was passed by the House so we can improve wireless voice and mobile Internet services and ensure resources go to the areas that need it the most, including rural communities.A significant digital divide remains between urban and rural America. Congressman Loebsack is a leader in working to close this divide by promoting broadband deployment throughout rural America. Loebsack serves on the Communications and Technology subcommittee of the Energy and Commerce Committee, which has jurisdiction over telecommunications issues. He also serves as a co-chair of the Rural Broadband Caucus.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://loebsack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=395104,Loebsack Statement on the State of the Union Address,2018-01-30,2018,2018-01,Democrat,House,IA,Dave Loebsack,L000565,loebsack.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Dave Loebsack released the following statement on President Trumps first State of the Union address.What I went into tonights speech wanting to hear is the same thing I have been hearing from Iowans for a long time: when are we going to get our economy back on track, so it works for all of us? Over the past year, the President has tweeted out his thoughts on various issues, but tonight should have been the time for the rubber to meet the road. Unfortunately, we dont know much more now than we did prior to the speech.Where are the details? How does the President specifically plan to update our aging infrastructure across the entire country - not just in big, coastal cities? What are the Presidents plans to create millions of jobs and train workers for these new positions? When is the middle class going to see folks in Washington working for them, not just the special interests? How will we ensure our Veterans have access to the care they need after returning home? When will the President take actions to help those affected by the widespread opioid epidemic? On top of that, Congress still has to pass a long-term funding bill to keep the government open. There are many issues facing our nation and we have heard a lot of talk over the past year, but tonight I was hoping to hear specifics. Despite news indicating that our economy is moving in the right direction, it is past time that we start making policy decisions to ensure all Americans have the opportunity to get ahead, not just those on Wall Street. I stand ready to work with anyone to create an economy that works for everyone. I will keep fighting for the middle class and those struggling to get into the middle class.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://loebsack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=395103,House Rural Broadband Caucus to President: Include Dedicated Broadband Funding in Infrastructure Proposal,2018-01-24,2018,2018-01,Democrat,House,IA,Dave Loebsack,L000565,loebsack.house.gov,,,legacy,"As President Trump prepares to unveil his infrastructure proposal, the six co-chairs of the House Rural Broadband Caucus, Reps. Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D), Mark Pocan (D-Wis.), Adam Kinzinger (R-Ill.), David Loebsack (D-Iowa), and Robert Latta (R-Ohio), today sent a letter to the president urging him to include dedicated rural broadband connectivity investments in his proposal to Congress.We are concerned about recent reports that your forthcoming proposal may not include investments in rural broadband connectivity, wrote the legislators. We write today to reiterate our support for the proposal to include funding specifically for rural broadband deployment in unserved and underserved areas. The members continued, Rural communities must have adequate broadband infrastructure to attract and retain businesses and human resources, close the homework gap for students and teachers, open innovative and convenient pathways to telemedicine for seniors and providers, and help farmers increase efficiencies in their barns and on their land. The future wellbeing of our communities is dependent upon this technology.Last year, the co-chairs of the House Rural Broadband Caucus led 71 Members of Congress in sending a letter to the President urging him to include rural broadband connectivity investments in any infrastructure proposal. The text of the letter follows: Dear Mr. President:A year ago, a bipartisan coalition of 71 Members of Congress wrote to you advocating for the inclusion of rural broadband connectivity investments in your infrastructure proposal. We strongly believe that high-speed Internet access is essential to ensuring rural residents are not left behind in this increasingly interconnected world.We are concerned about recent reports that your forthcoming proposal may not include investments in rural broadband connectivity. We write today to reiterate our support for the proposal to include funding specifically for rural broadband deployment in unserved and underserved areas. In the Information Age, the Internet offers endless possibilities. Unfortunately, these possibilities are not afforded to many rural Americans. This digital divide between urban and rural America is significant and demands a focused and aggressive response. Rural communities must have adequate broadband infrastructure to attract and retain businesses and human resources, close the homework gap for students and teachers, open innovative and convenient pathways to telemedicine for seniors and providers, and help farmers increase efficiencies in their barns and on their land. The future wellbeing of our communities is dependent upon this technology. We appreciate the Administrations effort to promote policies that will streamline and incentivize rural broadband deployment; however, we also encourage the inclusion of connectivity investments in your infrastructure proposal. We remain committed to working with you to deliver the promise of robust broadband infrastructure to rural America.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://loebsack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=395102,Loebsack Statement on Government Funding Bill,2018-01-18,2018,2018-01,Democrat,House,IA,Dave Loebsack,L000565,loebsack.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Dave Loebsack released the following statement today after the House voted on the fourth short-term continuing resolution of the fiscal year. Loebsack has previously supported short-term funding agreements in order to allow time for a long-term agreement to be negotiated. With no movement towards a long-term agreement, Loebsack voted against another short-term fix. Congress must remain in Washington until a long-term funding agreement has been reached. After a dysfunctional and chaotic process, for the fourth time this fiscal year, Paul Ryan and Republican leaders in the House have yet again resorted to kicking the can down the road just so they can get out of town for the weekend. I have previously supported short-term funding agreements in hopes of finding a long-term solution. But it is now past time for gimmicks that will only lead to another manufactured crisis in February. I remain prepared to stay in Washington and work until a long-term plan is in place. I continue to believe that a commonsense solution can be reached and remain hopeful folks are willing to come to the table in order to achieve positive results for Iowans.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://loebsack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=395099,Loebsack Launches Revamped Online Home For Iowans,2018-01-08,2018,2018-01,Democrat,House,IA,Dave Loebsack,L000565,loebsack.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Dave Loebsack today launched his newly redesigned website, https://loebsack.house.gov. The website serves as the online home for Iowans looking to interact with the Congressman and be in touch with his office. I am pleased that the newly redesigned website makes it easier for Iowans to be in touch with me and see what I am working on in Washington and across the state. I have long been committed to transparency and having an open conversation with Iowans. Along with the 370 in-person meetings I held in 2017, I believe my website is an additional place for folks to get information and leave comments in one convenient place. I hope Iowans visit the new site and find useful information about how my office can be of assistance.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z